Smart sport equipment: SmartSki prototype for biofeedback applications in skiing

Abstract

Miniature sensors are already integrated into various sport equipment. A combination of body-attached sensor devices and sensors integrated into the sport equipment, together with an adequate sensor fusion algorithms, can help with developing better sport's gear, speed up the learning process, and improve the skill level and performance. The paper presents our SmartSki system including SmartSki prototype, measuring equipment, and several SmartSki applications. The SmartSki system was functionally tested and verified by a group of alpine skiing experts through several snow tests during the period of 1 year. The snow test results were used to improve the prototype and extract several important skiing parameters that are used in various feedback applications, for example, in a trainer feedback system or in a real-time biofeedback system for the skier. We are confident that the SmartSki can offer many benefits to recreational skiers, ski equipment manufacturers, ski schools, coaches, and even professional skiers.