SENSOR
At the heart of PlayerMaker’s solution is a small yet advanced motion sensor. Designed to strap comfortably on the player's footwear, the sensor can optimally sense and classify each foot and ball interaction and each footstep. Acting as an extension of the player’s foot, the ergonomically designed strap transfers all foot movement directly to the motion sensor.
Unique silicon housing is designed to keep the sensor board safe under any impact and it is highly resilient and able to withstand rough use. The sensor is small, lightweight, easy to wear, and requires very little maintenance. Located on a
ball-free shoe zone, the sensor causes no interference when a player kicks the ball or undertakes any other football activity.
Algorithms
The analyses and insights provided by the PlayerMaker solution are based on innovative artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms. PlayerMaker software provides real-time feedback derived from the footwear motion sensors.
As there is significant similarity among different ball-player movements, it is challenging to accurately identify and distinguish various football moves. To solve this classification problem, a machine learning methodology utilises an extensive data set of relevant movement types.
The PlayerMaker sensor’s algorithm has been “trained to play football.” It recognises passes, kicks and sprints, and provides kick optimisation analysis. It can measure the number of passes, time elapsed between ball receipt and release, non-dominant/dominant leg use, individual possessions, and more. Furthermore, when synced with other players, it can provide the coach with highly accurate tactical information and players’ network analysis.
