Let us know what you think!
Canterbury Trial GPS
Not only have the Canterbury Rugby team been on top form recently, but they are also on top in terms of rugby technology. RugbyHeads has it on good authority that secret trials of GPS (Global Positioning System) have been taking place within the Canterbury camp. The system developed by Trimble Navigation Ltd allows the coaching team to track players positions to within an ant's turd of where they actually are. Each player's physical data (heart rate, respiration etc.) is also collected using a specially designed electrode. Data collected at a match can be later loaded into a powerful Silicon Graphics computer which, using highly advanced 3D rendering capabilities, can replay the entitre match from any angle or perspective. Artificial intelligence modules utilising the latest neural network algorithms assist with the analysis and breakdown of complex game sequences.
The system is essentially very simple. Each player has a number of has a number of components which are secured to them for the duration of the game. These are:
The coaching staff carry the following:
Each player's exact position on the field and physical condition is determined every second by the GPS tranceiver. This information is stored on the unit and also transmitted to the GPS receiver carried by the coach. Specially designed glasses incorporating a tiny liquid crystal readout provide the coach with up to the minute real time information on players performance and physical condition. This information assists with substitution decisions, match strategy and meal planning later. An emergency beacon located on the left leg of the glasses automatically dials out for pizza with the correct toppings for maximum nutritional benefit. So, if you have often wondered why Wayne Smith insists on dark glasses at rugby games, you now know the reason.
In the future, developers hope to include modules which will track the movements and condition of players' partners outside the game. This is expected to increase player confidence on the paddocks and lead to better overall performance.
A lucrative agreement with television companies is also likely to be struck where computer data and images will be sold to the channels. Action replays and up to date information will be greatly improved for all viewers.
AT
| I don't like the sound of that colon electrode too much... But if it
makes them play better then who am I to argue!
|
|
Let us know what you think! |
|