Radar Gun Research Articles

Traffic Violation Detection Using Computer Vision Techniques

The increasing number of road accidents is still a global concern. Traditional approaches to detecting traffic violators on the road, such as radar guns and sensors, are expensive and time-consuming to maintain and install. This often results in inefficient and ineffective detection of traffic violators. This paper proposes a more cost-effective and efficient approach to traffic violation detection utilizing visual data from CCTV footage. Specifically, the method targets two common violations: crossing red lights and overtaking on double lines. In this study, YOLO is integrated for road object detection, providing the detection of vehicles and traffic lights on the road for our system. Then, the Deep SORT tracker tracks detected vehicles, ensuring continuous monitoring over time. An automated lane detection technique is formulated to identify the stopping line/lane for red light violation detection, enabling precise detection of vehicles that cross the stop lane during red light. For overtaking detection, the system detects the double line to serve as the boundary that vehicles should not cross, identifying illegal overtaking. Furthermore, point-line distance calculation is utilized to detect traffic violators by analyzing their tracked trajectories and positions. The proposed solution is evaluated using real-world CCTV footage from online repositories to reflect the real-world scenarios as closely as possible. Experimental results show that the proposed techniques achieve promising detection of real-time traffic violators, which leads to a safer environment for road users.

Limiting Access to Resistance Training Equipment During the Off-Season: The Impact on Collegiate Pitching Metrics.

Gdovin, JR, Hogan, B, and Williams, CC. Limiting access to resistance training equipment during the off-season: the impact on collegiate pitching metrics. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2024-Resistance training has been shown to improve overhead throwing velocity, but it is unknown as to how limiting access to a strength and conditioning facility affects a baseball pitcher's readiness for the spring season. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the influence of an individualized pitching program on pitching metrics during an 8-week fall season in collegiate baseball pitchers without a simultaneous structured strength training program. Twelve National Collegiate Athletic Association Division-I baseball pitchers completed the study and wore a PULSE Throw Workload Monitor to track peak arm slot angle, peak arm velocity, and peak elbow varus torque, while a radar gun measured ball velocity. An 8-week pitching program had subjects throw 30 and 50 maximum effort pitches in the first and eighth week, respectively, while workload increased by 5 maximum effort pitches every 2 weeks. Paired samples t-tests were conducted to compare variables of interest before and after an 8-week fall season with an alpha level set at 0.05. There was no significant difference in peak arm slot angle, peak arm velocity, and peak elbow varus torque (p > 0.05); however, there was a significant decrease in ball velocity (p < 0.001). These data indicate that 8-week pitching programs, not coupled with a resistance training regimen, negatively affect a pitcher's ball velocity. Sport coaches and practitioners should thus make accommodations to access the necessary equipment for a pitching and strength training program to be implemented simultaneously to ensure that pitchers are prepared to perform at an optimal level during the spring season.

The Accuracy of the Titan 1+ 10 Hz Global Positioning System for Measures of Time, Distance, and Top Speed

Introduction: Global Positioning System (GPS) technology provide quantifiable data concerning the number and types of movements athletes complete across training session and match player. The Titan 1+ is a novel GPS device that has not been investigated to establish measures of accuracy or reliability. The purpose of this study was to establish device accuracy for metrics including distance, top speed, and time between the Titan 1+ 10 Hz GPS device and criterion measures. Criterion measures include tape measure, stopwatch, and radar gun for measures of distance, time, and top speed, respectively. Methods and Materials: 16 male NCAA collegiate soccer players completed running protocols of varying distances and speeds, including long and short duration straight-line running (100m Run and SLR), tight and gradual change of direction running (COD T and COD G), and a team-sport simulated circuit. Results: The Titan 1+ was not significantly different from tape measured distance during the SLR protocol for 10m jog and all movements speed across 20m and 40m (p &lt; .05). The Titan 1+ was significantly correlated to radar gun top speed measures for all distances and movement speeds during the SLR (p &lt; .01). The Titan 1+ was significantly different from the stopwatch for measures of time accuracy (p &lt; .0001), however significant correlations were identified for all jogging distances (p &lt; .01), the 20m and 40m strides (p &lt; .01), and the 10m sprint (p &lt; .01). COD G and COD T distances were accurately measured between the Titan 1+ and tape measure (p &lt; .05). The Titan 1+ revealed correlations for time measures during jogging and striding during the COD G (p = .001 and p &lt; .0001) and during the COD T (p &lt; .0001 and p&lt; .0001). Device accuracy was established for measure of time during the TSSC (p &lt; .05), with time measures significantly correlated between the Titan 1+ and stopwatch (p &lt; .01). Top speed for the TSSC was significantly different between the radar gun and Titan 1+ device (p = .001), but both devices were significantly correlated (p &lt; .01). Conclusions: The results of the present study indicate that the Titan 1+ demonstrates accurate measures of time, distance, and top speed when compared to criterion measures.

Assessment of environmental noise capacity for Indian Highways

India is one of the rising nations with a diverse traffic mix. Heterogeneity of traffic is a key factor in determining the noise environment around roadways. This study aims to assess the environmental noise capacity of Indian highways. To gather data for the study, Indian highways, namely NH-334, NH-7, and NH-344, were selected, specifically focusing on the sections, settlements near the highway. Four specific locations along these highways were chosen to measure the noise levels and collect comprehensive traffic data. The vehicles were classified into two categories: light vehicles and heavy vehicles. Traffic volume was assessed using videography, while traffic speed was determined using a radar gun. Sampling occurred at 15-minute intervals, encompassing both peak and off-peak hours on weekdays and weekends. A total of 460 data sets were collected to facilitate the prediction of equivalent noise levels (Leq). Environmental noise capacity (ENC) was calculated at all selected locations, revealing that the ENC value exceeded zero. This indicates that the noise levels in all areas surpassed the designated capacity. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers in developing strategies to mitigate the impacts of increasing highway noise.

A comparison of Fulltrack AI application as an alternative to radar gun measured cricket ball delivery speed

This study investigated the inter-rater reliability and validity of the Fulltrack AI application, to measure ball speed under a range of cricket training conditions in comparison to a radar gun. Ball speed (km/hr) of 1081 deliveries (pace = 783; spin = 298) from a range of training sessions and conditions were recorded simultaneously using a radar gun (Stalker Pro IIs) and iOS device running Fulltrack AI (v1.13.1). Statistical analyses were conducted in R Statistical Software. Reliability was assessed with standard error of measurement (SEM), coefficient of variation (CV) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Agreement was assessed using Bland Altman's 95% limits of agreement (LOA). Validity was assessed using generalised additive models (GAMs). Pace deliveries were associated with good agreement (ICC: 0.87–0.90, CV: 2.56–3.13%), whilst spin deliveries demonstrated lower agreement (ICC: 0.72–0.76, CV: 3.08–4.33%). LOA established poor to fair levels of agreement, exceeding maximal allowable differences (&gt;3%). GAMs identified Fulltrack AI overestimated ball speed (pace: estimate 0.72–0.77 m/s, SE = 0.34–0.34; spin: estimate 1.09–1.18 m/s, SE = 0.23–0.25) when compared to the radar gun. Fulltrack AI is an ecologically valid and reliable field-based method for measuring ball speed. However, caution is warranted given the significant overestimation of ball speed in contrast with a radar gun, even after controlling for different training conditions, suggesting software could benefit from refinement.

Influence of Motor Imagery Modality on First-Serve Performance in Tennis Players.

Motor imagery (MI) is frequently used in tennis players. This pilot study aimed to assess whether the MI modality and preference of skilled tennis players could influence their service performance when using MI before serving first balls. Twenty expert players (Mage = 18.6years) completed the movement imagery questionnaire (third version) to assess their MI modality scores (internal visual, external visual, and kinesthetic) and their MI preference. Participants completed 4 experimental counterbalanced sessions spread over 4weeks, each including the completion of 20 first-serve balls in match condition. The sessions included a control condition (i.e.,only physical practice trials) and three MI conditions during which the players had to mentally imagine themselves performing a serve according to one of the imagery modalities, either internal visual, external visual, or kinesthetic, before serving. The percentage of success, the speed of the service balls (measured by a tablet with SWING VISION and a radar gun), and an efficiency score were recorded and then evaluated by experts and served as performance indicators and dependent variables. The results of this study showed that players benefited from MI before serving and that almost a third of the participants achieved a higher percentage of success and efficiency scores when using their preferred MI modality. These results lead us, in an applied way, to suggest to skilled tennis players to determine their MI preference and to have recourse to the mental simulation of a successful serve before serving the first balls in match condition.

How does prolonged tennis playing affect lower limb muscles' activity during first and second tennis serves?

We examined the effect of prolonged tennis playing on lower limb muscles' activity during the execution of first and second tennis serves. Ten male competitive tennis players executed five first and second serves before (pretest) and after (posttest) a 3-h tennis match. Surface electromyographic (EMG) activity of four lower limb muscles (vastus lateralis, rectus femoris, gastrocnemius lateralis, and soleus muscles) on each leg was recorded along with maximum ball velocity measured by a radar gun and peak vertical forces recorded by a force platform. For the vastus lateralis, gastrocnemius lateralis, and soleus muscles of the left leg as well as the vastus lateralis muscle of the right leg, EMG amplitude decreased from pre- to posttests (p≤0.033). These reductions in the EMG signal were generally more pronounced in the first serve (i.e., ranging from -10% to -40%) compared to the second serve (0% to -25%). Maximum ball velocity for both first (159±12 vs. 154±12km/h) and second (126±20 vs. 125±15km/h) serves remained unchanged from pre- to posttests (p=0.638) Similarly, peak vertical forces did not differ between pretest and posttest for both first (1.78±0.30 vs. 1.72±0.29 body weight) and second (1.62±0.25 vs. 1.75±0.23 body weight) serves (p=0.730). In conclusion, a 3-h tennis match led to decreased activation levels in various leg muscles during serves, particularly in first serves compared to second serves. Despite consistent maximum ball velocity and peak vertical forces, these reductions in EMG signals suggest that skilled tennis players may adopt compensatory strategies after prolonged play.

Relationship of Forearm-Hand Inertia With Throwing Motion Patterns and Elbow Valgus Load in Adolescent Baseball Players

Background: Growth-specific physical characteristics in adolescence may mediate throwing-related loads and movement patterns associated with elbow injuries. In a previous study, the authors calculated the forearm-hand inertia, which is the moment of inertia centered at the elbow joint. Purpose: To determine the relationship of forearm-hand inertia values with throwing motion patterns and elbow valgus load in adolescent baseball players. Study Design: Descriptive laboratory study. Methods: A total of 35 adolescent baseball players underwent measurements by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans and a throwing trial. Forearm-hand inertia was determined as the joint moment around the elbow using the subregion analysis mode of DXA. Elbow valgus torque and ball speed during throwing were measured using a dedicated sensor and speed gun, and throwing efficiency was calculated by dividing the elbow valgus load by the ball speed. Players were divided according to the throwing motion pattern in which maximum acceleration occurred: pelvis–upper arm–forearm (proximal-to-distal sequencing [PDS] group; n = 19) or pelvis-forearm–upper arm (proximal upper extremity [PUE] group; n = 16). The groups were compared in terms of ball speed, elbow valgus torque, throwing efficiency, and forearm-hand inertia using t tests and analysis of covariance, with forearm-hand inertia as covariates. The chi-square test was used to examine the relationship between throwing motion patterns and forearm-hand inertia. Results: The PUE group had a higher elbow valgus load (effect size [ES] = 0.65; P = .03), throwing efficiency (ES = 0.63; P = .02), and forearm-hand inertia values (ES = 0.64; P = .04) than the PDS group. In addition, a significant relationship was observed with throwing patterns when forearm-hand inertia values were 350 kg·m2 (OR, 2.36; 95% CI, 1.09-5.12; P = .012) and 400 kg·m2 (OR, 1.68; 95% CI, 0.99-2.85; P = .037). Conclusion: Study results indicated that growth-specific physical characteristics in adolescent baseball players exhibited in forearm-hand inertia mediated the relationship between high elbow valgus and poor throwing efficiency caused by poor throwing motion patterns. Clinical Relevance: A better understanding of the details in muscle function with throwing mechanics may prevent future injuries.

Gender disparities in long passing performance among senior football players: implications for inclusive training strategies

Background: Football, as the most popular sport globally, encompasses fundamental skills like the lofted pass, a cornerstone technique mastered early in player development. Purpose study: This study aimed to analyze long passing performance disparities between senior male and female football players. Method and material: A total of 74 football players, comprising 35 boys and 39 girls (ages 15-18 years), were randomly selected as subjects. Personal information including academic details, age, Body height (cm), Body weight (kg), BMI (kg/m²), training age, and level played, alongside football performance metrics such as: Ball speed (km), Kicked ball distance (m) and Approach run distance (m), were recorded. Data collection involved the use of a Bushnell Radar gun for speed tests and long pass (Model 101911, USA), a digital weighing scale for body weight (BEURER Typ 35, Germany), Stadiometer for body height measurement (SECA 206, Germany) and a measuring tape for distance measurements. Statistical analysis: The data analysis employed descriptive statistics, Mean, SD, and the Mann-Whitney U Test for independent samples (p&lt;0.05). Results: Indicate significant discrepancies in performance metrics between senior boys and girls. Boys exhibited greater ball speed (Mean=79.00±9.36km) vs. to girls (Mean=51.62±7.92km), with a significant inferential statistic of p&lt;0.00. Similarly, kicked ball distance favored boys (Mean=46.53±51.11m) vs. over girls (Mean=17.47±9.73m), again with a significant inferential statistic of p&lt;0.00. Notably, gender differences were less pronounced in approach run distance. Surprisingly, age, training age, and BMI showed no significant correlations with performance metrics, suggesting other influential factors. Conclusions: These results highlight the notable differences in football performance between genders, highlighting the greater speed and strength of boys in kicks and ball distance covering. Improving overall performance and inclusivity in the sport may depend on addressing these gaps. Keywords: Football, Long Pass, Gender Differences, Performance Metrics, Kinematics.

The correlation between ball velocity with hip-shoulder rotation and separation during pitching process in baseball pitchers

&lt;p&gt;目的：本研究欲探討成棒選手肩髖的旋轉及肩髖分離程度與球速間的相關性，用以尋找提升球速的方法。方法：以 18 位大專公開一級棒球投手作為研究參與者，同時利用慣性感測 (IMU)、二維影像分析系統及測速槍測量研究參與者之投球運動學參數，包括肩與骨盆在各時間點的旋轉角度、肩髖分離的角度、旋轉峰值時機及球速等。以皮爾森積差相關係數分析肩與骨盆的旋轉情況及肩髖分離程度與球速之間是否具有相關性。結果：本研究顯示除了上軀幹在膝蓋最高點 (r =-.295, p =.441)外，其餘分別為上軀幹在前導腳落地時 (r = -.821, p &lt; .001)、上軀幹在球離手時 (r = .765, p = .016)、骨盆在膝蓋最高點時 (r = -.791, p = .011)、骨盆在前導腳落地時 (r = .906, p= .001)、骨盆在球離手時 (r = .951, p &lt; .001)，都與球速呈顯著相關；上軀幹與骨盆的旋轉速度峰值、時機與球速呈顯著相關 (r = .934, p &lt; .001)、(r = .969, p &lt; .001)、(r = .881, p = .002)、(r = -.749, p = .02)；肩髖分離程度與上軀幹和骨盆的旋轉及球速皆呈顯著相關。結論：本研究顯示不僅是上軀幹，骨盆的旋轉與球速也息息相關，因此在投球動作上應注重投球動作的整體性，而非強調單一肢段的發力，且若能同時妥善運用肩髖分離，則能提升運動表現。&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Purpose: This study aims to investigate the correlation between hip-shoulder and separation degree with ball speed in skilled baseball pitchers to identify methods for enhancing pitching velocity. Methods: Eighteen collegiate level-Ⅰbaseball pitchers participated as research subjects. An inertial measurement unit (IMU), a two-dimensional motion analysis system, and a radar gun were employed to measure the kinematic parameters of the pitching motion. These parameters included rotational angles of the shoulder and pelvic at various time points, the degree of hip-shoulder separation, peak rotation timing, and ball velocity. Pearson correlation coefficients between ball velocity, hip shoulder separation, and all trunk and pelvic kinematic variables were computed, and the level of significance was set at &amp;alpha; = .05. Results: The results indicate that, except for the upper trunk at the maximum knee height(r = -.295, p = .441), the rest were significantly related with ball velocity: the upper trunk at the landing of the leading foot (r = -.821, p&lt; .001), the upper trunk at the ball off hand (r = .765, p = .016), the pelvic at the maximum knee height (r = -.791, p = .011), the pelvic at the landing of the leading foot (r = .906, p = .001), and the pelvic at the ball off hand (r = .951, p &lt; .001). The peak rotation velocity and the timing of the peak rotation velocity of the upper trunk and pelvic is also significantly related to ball velocity(r = .934, p &lt; .001)、(r = .969, p &lt; .001)、(r = .881, p = .002)、(r = -.749, p = .02). The degree of shoulder-hip separation is significantly correlated with the rotation of the upper trunk and pelvic and ball velocity. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, we know the significance of not only the upper trunk but also pelvic rotation with ball velocity. Therefore, a holistic approach to pitching mechanics, emphasizing overall motion rather than isolating individual segments, is crucial. Additionally, effectively utilizing hip-shoulder separation can enhance overall athletic performance in baseball pitching.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;

Impact Of Medicine Ball Training On Physical Fitness, Body Composition, And Batting Performance In Female Cricketers

Background: The purpose of this research was to evaluate the impact of medicine ball training on body composition, physical fitness and batting performance of female cricketers in Bahawalpur City. Physical fitness and skill performance is crucial for cricketers, as it directly affects their gameplay. Medicine ball training, known for improving strength and power was utilized to explore its effects on the athletic performance of batswomen. Methodology: The study sample comprised 20 female cricketers (n=20) who were subjected to an 8-week medicine ball training program, conducted from Monday to Friday each week. Data collection tools included a stadiometer, weight machine, large and small sliding calipers, measuring tape, skinfold caliper, [1]dynamometer, sit and reach box, cricket ball, video camera and radar gun. Baseline data were recorded before the commencement of the training. Standardized tools and SPSS were used for data collection and analysis, with statistical significance set at p&lt;0.05. Results: The results indicated a significant positive effect of medicine ball training on the physical fitness of the participants. Notable improvements were observed in speed, power, flexibility, and agility. The training significantly enhanced the participants’ ability to perform cricket-specific batting techniques, demonstrating improved execution of shots like the half volley lofted shot, pull shot and cover drive. Conclusion: Medicine ball training effectively enhanced both physical fitness and batting performance in female cricketers. The training regimen’s focus on core strength and explosive movements translates directly into on-field performance. Coaches and trainers should consider incorporating such exercises into cricket training programs for female athletes to optimize performance.

Increasing pitch count is associated with increasing elbow flexion angle at ball release in youth baseball pitchers

Baseball is one of the most popular sports among youth athletes in the United States, and among these players, pitchers are at a particularly high risk of sustaining an injury. Overuse of the arm from repetitive pitching is a common mechanism for injury. Despite the attention that overuse injury has received, little is known regarding the mechanism that leads to elbow injury. This study aims to determine the effect of increasing pitch count on elbow flexion at ball release in a youth pitching cohort. The authors hypothesize that elbow flexion would increase as pitch count increases. Study subjects included volunteers from youth baseball players from local teams and public advertisements. Retroreflective markers attached to bony landmarks were placed on the players according to International Shoulder Group recommendations. Pitchers threw an indoor simulated game. Three-dimensional marker trajectories were collected using a 12-camera optical motion capture system, and ball velocity was captured using a radar gun. Voluntary maximal isometric strength of the internal and external rotators was evaluated before and after pitching. Paired 2-tailed t tests were performed to determine if a significant change occurred between the fresh and fatigued sets. Twelve adolescent male pitchers were recruited. Eleven of 12 pitchers completed the prescribed 6 sets of 15 pitches, culminating in a 90-pitch simulated game. The ball speed in the second set was found to be the highest in all pitchers and was considered the "peak set" (P=.021), whereas ball speed was the slowest in the sixth set of pitches and was therefore considered the "fatigue set" (P=.001). There was a moderate but statistically significant inverse correlation between elbow flexion at ball release and maximum internal rotation velocity (P=.005). Elbow flexion at ball release was also significantly positively correlated with shoulder abduction at ball release (P=.004). Elbow flexion at ball release was not significantly correlated with ball velocity (P=.108). In a simulated game laboratory setting, increasing pitch count was associated with increasing elbow flexion angle at ball release in youth baseball pitchers. These findings demonstrate that pitching with fatigue may cause biomechanical changes that have been associated with increased rates of elbow injury in the adult throwing population. Further investigation on the association between elbow flexion angle and elbow injury in the youth baseball population is needed.

Perfil antropométrico y velocidad máxima de servicio en tenistas varones de un centro deportivo medico peruano

Objective: To evaluate the relationship between anthropometric prole and serve speed in male Peruvian tennis players. Methods:A quantitative, observational, cross-sectional, and analytical study was conducted with 79 male tennis players from the FiXU sports medical center in Lima, Peru, during 2023 and 2024. Variables such as height, weight, BMI, and limb dimensions were measured. Serve speed was assessed using a calibrated speed gun. Results: The average serve speed was 94.38 km/h (±9.98). The average height of the players was 174.61 cm (±4.17) and the average weight was 72.20 kg (±6.97). Height (r=0.796) and weight (r=0.533) showed signicant correlations with serve speed. Weekly playing hours (r=0.611) and years of experience (r=0.435) also showed positive associations. Linear regression identied height (B=1.91, p&lt;0.001), weight (B=0.76, p&lt;0.001), and forearm length (B=6.00, p&lt;0.001) as signicant predictors of serve speed. Conclusion: Height and weight are signicant predictors of serve speed in Peruvian tennis players. Limb measurements and years of experience positively inuence serve speed, while BMI showed no signicant correlation.

Factors associated with road traffic injury in a high-risk zone of Bangladesh: a mixed-method study

IntroductionRoad traffic injuries are a significant public health issue in low-income and middle-income countries. This study was designed to explore the pattern and factors associated with road traffic injury in...

Lumbopelvic Stability during a Single Leg Step Down Predicts Elbow Varus Torque during Baseball Pitching.

During a baseball pitch, energy is transferred from the lower extremities through the lumbopelvic junction to the upper extremity. Reduced lumbopelvic stability has been associated with elbow injuries, but the mechanisms are unclear. Characterize the predictive ability of lumbopelvic stability on elbow varus torque during a baseball pitch. Cross-Sectional. Facilities at NCAA Division 1 universities. NCAA Division 1 baseball players (N=44; 19.6+1.3yrs). Pitchers completed a warm-up and then threw ten fastballs from a mound to a catcher. During the pitches, elbow varus torque was recorded using an inertial measurement unit and ball velocity was recorded with a radar gun. Participants also completed a single leg step down (SLSD) task with and without a cognitive Stroop, while triplanar pelvic and trunk kinematics were recorded by inertial measurement units. Statistical analysis consisted of a cluster analysis, principal component analysis (PCA), and a multivariate logistic regression model. Cluster analysis revealed 2 clusters: Low Torque-High Velocity and High-Torque-Low Velocity. The PCA analysis revealed 4 patterns of variability (principal components) during the SLSD: 1-sagittal plane, 2-transverse plane, 3-frontal plane trail limb, and 4-frontal plane lead limb. Logistic regression indicated increased transverse plane trunk and pelvis motion predicted higher odds of belonging to the High Torque-Low Velocity cluster; trunk [OR=2.9 (95%CI:1.1,8.0), p=0.036] and pelvis [OR=2.6 (95%CI:1.1,6.0), p=0.031]. Lumbopelvic movement assessed during the SLSD can identify deficits that relate to high elbow torque-low ball velocity during the baseball pitch. Specifically, higher pelvis and trunk transverse plane motion was associated with pitchers in the High Torque-Low Velocity cluster. Our assessment of trunk and pelvis motion during a SLSD provides a method for coaches and clinicians to identify a potential risk factor related to increased elbow varus torque and decreased ball velocity.

Comparison of vertical jump and sprint performances between 3 × 3 and 5 × 5 elite professional male basketball players.

Given its fast-growing popularity and unique on-court competitive demands, 3 × 3 basketball has captured a considerable amount of attention over recent years. However, unlike research focused on studying 5 × 5 basketball players, there is a lack of scientific literature focused on examining countermovement vertical jump (CMJ) and sprint performance characteristics of 3 × 3 athletes. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to compare force-time metrics during both eccentric and concentric phases of the CMJ and acceleration and deceleration capabilities between 3 × 3 and 5 × 5 top-tier professional male basketball athletes. Ten 3 × 3 and eleven 5 × 5 professional basketball players volunteered to participate in the present study. Upon completion of a standardized warm-up, each athlete performed three maximum-effort CMJs, followed by two 10 m sprints. A uni-axial force plate system sampling at 1,000 Hz was used to analyze CMJ force-time metrics and a radar gun sampling at 47 Hz was used to derive sprint acceleration-deceleration measures. Independent t-tests and Hedge's g were used to examine between-group statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) and effect size magnitudes. The findings of the present study reveal that 3 × 3 and 5 × 5 professional male basketball players tend to display similar neuromuscular performance characteristics as no significant differences were observed in any force-time metric during both eccentric and concentric phases of the CMJ (g = 0.061-0.468). Yet, prominent differences were found in multiple measures of sprint performance, with large effect size magnitudes (g = 1.221-1.881). Specifically, 5 × 5 basketball players displayed greater average and maximal deceleration and faster time-to-stop than their 3 × 3 counterparts. Overall, these findings provide reference values that sports practitioners can use when assessing athletes' CMJ and sprint performance capabilities as well as when developing sport-specific training regimens to mimic on-court competitive demands.

RELIABILITY AND VALIDITY OF FULLTRACK AI APP TO MEASURE CRICKET BALL SPEED UNDER TRAINING CONDITIONS

INTRODUCTION Radar guns are commonly used to accurately and reliably measure ball speed(1), a key cricket bowling performance indicator. App-based approaches, such as Fulltrack AI, are gaining popularity. This study investigated the reliability and validity of Fulltrack AI to measure cricket ball speed compared to a validated radar gun(1). METHODS Ball speed of 1081 deliveries (pace=783; spin=298) from a range of training sessions and conditions (batter, no batter; indoor and outdoor wickets) were recorded simultaneously using a radar gun (Stalker ATS2) and iPad running Fulltrack AI (version 1.13.1). Fulltrack AI data (ball speed (km/hr), line, length (m)) were extracted post-session for tabulation with radar gun data. Statistical analyses were conducted in R Statistical Software independently for bowling type (pace, spin) following exclusion of outliers. Reliability was assessed with standard error of measurement (SEM), coefficient of variation (CV) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Agreement was assessed using Bland Altman’s, 95% limits of agreement (LOA)(2). Validity was assessed using generalised additive models (GAM), controlling for line, length and interaction of training conditions. RESULTS Whilst reliability coefficients for pace deliveries demonstrated very good agreement (ICC=0.90; SEM=2.61) and lower variability (CV=2.56%) in contrast to spin (ICC=0.76; SEM=2.17; CV=3.08%); LOA demonstrated poor to fair levels of agreement, exceeding maximal allowable differences (&amp;gt;3%). When controlling for line, length and training conditions, GAMs ‘average model’ identified Fulltrack AI significantly (p&amp;lt;0.05) overestimated ball speed (pace: estimate 2.58km/hr, SE=1.24; spin: estimate 3.93km/hr, SE=0.81) when compared to the radar gun. CONCLUSION Fulltrack AI is a reliable method for monitoring ball speed where accuracy is not of paramount importance. Significant overestimation of ball speed in contrast with a radar gun, even after controlling for different training conditions, suggests software refinement is required before such technology is readily adopted for the measurement of speed. 1.Smith &amp; Burke (2021) 2.Bland &amp; Altman (1986)

Comparison of Windup and Stretch Pitching Biomechanics in Baseball With Implications for Safety and Performance

Background: Historically, it was assumed by some that high leg lift with windup pitching generated more ball velocity whereas pitching from the stretch was quicker to reduce the risk of base stealing but also more stressful on the arm. However, many now believe that velocity and stress do not differ between windup and stretch and always pitching from the stretch is simpler than mastering 2 techniques. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to compare windup and stretch fastball pitching biomechanics. It was hypothesized that there would be statistically significant and clinically important differences in ball velocity, timing of angular velocities, joint kinetics, and pitching kinematics. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: Fastball pitching biomechanics previously captured for 221 healthy baseball pitchers (105 professional, 52 collegiate, and 64 high school level) were analyzed. For each pitcher, data for 3 to 10 windup trials and 3 to 10 stretch trials were available. Ball velocity was recorded using a radar gun. A 12-camera, 240-Hz automated motion capture system was used to track 39 reflective markers attached to the pitcher. A total of 24 kinematic parameters, 4 temporal parameters, and 5 kinetic parameters were calculated. Data for each parameter were compared across the 2 techniques and 3 competition levels using 2-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (P < .01). Based on previous studies and the expertise of the investigators, the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) was set as 2° for angle measurements, 20 deg/s for angular velocities, 0.5 m/s for fastball velocity, and 0.3% body height × weight for normalized joint torque. Results: Fastball velocity was statistically greater from the windup than stretch for the collegiate subgroup but not for the other 2 levels. The collegiate level difference was below the MCID. Pitching from the windup generated greater front knee height and required more time from initiation of leg lift to front foot contact. From foot contact to ball release, there were 11 additional small, statistically significant differences between windup and stretch; however, each of these was well below the MCID. Conclusion: Pitching from the stretch was quicker and should be used with runners on base to prevent stealing. Pitching from the windup and stretch produced similar ball velocity, joint kinetics, and kinematics. Thus, pitchers may choose to use both techniques or stretch only based on comfort and personal preference. Clinical Relevance: The decision to pitch from both the windup and stretch or only from the stretch should not affect a pitcher's performance or joint stress (and injury risk).

A study of ghosts generated by tangential reflectors in traffic radar

A study of ghosts generated by tangential reflectors in traffic radar

License plate text recognition using deep learning, NLP, and image processing techniques

Detecting license plates has never been easy, particularly with the proliferation of sophisticated radars on highways and roads. By 2021, the gendarmerie and National Security Road control agents will have access to more than 1 billion smart traffic radars worldwide. This research presents a revolutionary technique for detecting and recognizing Arabic and Latin license plates. After assembling the gathered images to create a novel dataset, we utilized YOLO v7 to locate and identify the number plate in the image as the first step of the suggested procedure. Before the dataset was fed to the detection system, it was manually labeled. Afterward, we improved the recognized license plate using machine learning methods. To do this, we used kernel methods as well as thresholding to get rid of the extra vertical lines on the plate. After that, we employed Arabic OCR along with Easy OCR methods to decipher the Latin and Arabic characters on the number plate. Eventually, the proposed method achieved an F1 score of 98%,with a precision and recall of 97% and 98%, respectively. We also obtained an accuracy of 99% for image segmentation. The segmentation and detection results from the suggested strategy have shown satisfactory results.