Computer Vision technology first arrived at the Olympic Winter Games Pyeongchang 2018, transforming the way we watch sports forever.

The technology involves a system of image-tracking cameras, which are set up around the venues of each sport. These cameras specifically track the movement of the athletes, as well as objects such as balls. Interacting with AI software, the cameras can capture live data including positions, speeds, distances, acceleration, and jump heights amongst many other examples. It can even detect the angle of a gymnast’s feet, or the angle of a figure skater’s blades.

All of this data information enables commentators, spectators, athletes and coaches to fully analyse each sport as it happens, and understand exactly what is happening in real time, and also where it was won or lost. Through precise data, we can pinpoint the moments that were decisive in each event.

For Swiss Timing, Computer Vision signals the future of timekeeping, as it tells the in-depth story of every sport. We are only at the beginning of this exciting technical evolution, and there are many more possibilities ahead that will transform the way we watch sports.