Version 1
: Received: 6 July 2023 / Approved: 13 July 2023 / Online: 13 July 2023 (03:35:48 CEST)
Version 2
: Received: 8 August 2023 / Approved: 9 August 2023 / Online: 10 August 2023 (09:15:34 CEST)
Uhlmann, T.; Bräuer, S.; Zaumseil, F.; Brunnett, G. A Novel Inexpensive Camera-Based Photoelectric Barrier System for Accurate Flying Sprint Time Measurement. Sensors2023, 23, 7339.
Uhlmann, T.; Bräuer, S.; Zaumseil, F.; Brunnett, G. A Novel Inexpensive Camera-Based Photoelectric Barrier System for Accurate Flying Sprint Time Measurement. Sensors 2023, 23, 7339.
Uhlmann, T.; Bräuer, S.; Zaumseil, F.; Brunnett, G. A Novel Inexpensive Camera-Based Photoelectric Barrier System for Accurate Flying Sprint Time Measurement. Sensors2023, 23, 7339.
Uhlmann, T.; Bräuer, S.; Zaumseil, F.; Brunnett, G. A Novel Inexpensive Camera-Based Photoelectric Barrier System for Accurate Flying Sprint Time Measurement. Sensors 2023, 23, 7339.
Abstract
This paper introduces a novel approach to addressing the challenge of accurately timing short distance runs, a critical aspect in the assessment of athletic performance. Electronic photoelectric barriers, although recognized for their dependability and accuracy, have remained largely inaccessible to non-professional athletes and smaller sport clubs due to their high costs. A comprehensive review of existing timing systems reveals that claimed accuracies beyond 30 milliseconds lack experimental validation across most available systems.To bridge this gap, a mobile, camera-based timing system is proposed, capitalizing on consumer-grade electronics and smartphones to provide an affordable and easily accessible alternative. By leveraging readily available hardware components, the construction of the proposed system is detailed, ensuring its cost-effectiveness and simplicity. Experiments involving track and field athletes demonstrate the proficiency of the proposed system in accurately timing short distance sprints. Comparative assessments against a professional photoelectric cells timing system reveal a remarkable accuracy of 62 milliseconds, firmly establishing the reliability and effectiveness of the proposed system. This finding places the camera-based approach on par with existing commercial systems, thereby offering non-professional athletes and smaller sport clubs an affordable means to achieve accurate timing.In an effort to foster further research and development, open access to the device's schematics and software is provided. This accessibility encourages collaboration and innovation in the pursuit of enhanced performance assessment tools for athletes.
Keywords
Photoelectric Barriers; Sprint Time Measurement; Sports Performance Measurement; Mobile Device
Subject
Computer Science and Mathematics, Other
Copyright:
This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Received:
10 August 2023
Commenter:
Tom Uhlmann
Commenter's Conflict of Interests:
Author
Comment: In response to the valuable feedback received during the first review round, this paper has undergone significant expansion, contributing approximately 7 additional pages to its content. Notable revisions include a complete reworking of the Abstract, as well as Sections 1, 2, 5, and 6. The review process encompassed a comprehensive analysis of existing time measurement devices tailored for short distance sprints, encompassing aspects such as pricing and accuracy. This research endeavor meticulously contextualized our work within the landscape of existing systems. To enhance clarity and comprehension, a series of refinements were implemented. We extend our sincere appreciation to the diligent reviewers whose insights have substantially enriched the quality and scope of our contribution.
Commenter: Tom Uhlmann
Commenter's Conflict of Interests: Author