Ericsson, on 18 April 2016, announced the launch of Piero Augmented Reality (PAR), a software system that gives broadcasters the ability to enhance sports programming and create more immersive viewing experiences.
Ericsson’s PAR enables broadcasters to overlay 3D graphics in real-time during live studio productions and sports games. Sports analysis graphics can be produced instantly either by a system operator or by a presenter using a tablet device. The graphics are then projected onto the studio floor in 3D allowing broadcasters to illustrate the analysis sequence without cutting away from the studio environment. The software is currently being tested by the BBC for its football highlights TV programme, Match of the Day.
The PAR technology integrates easily with major studio tracking systems including Motion Analysis and nCam, and popular sports information service Opta. In addition to the effects already available in Piero Sports Graphics system, some new ones include:
– 3D Virtual Replay – visualise a replay of the match on the studio floor
– 3D Heat Map – a customisable heat map based on Opta touch data
– Goal Build Up – visualise the passes sequence to a goal or a shot
– Pass Map – visualise a team’s passes map during a game
– Actual game footage projected in 3D on the studio floor
– 3D shots on goal – visualise shot trajectories and attempts on goal
– Penalty Heat Map – customisable heat map based on Opta penalty shots data
Thorsten Sauer, head of broadcast and media services at Ericsson, says: “PAR allows broadcasters to go beyond rudimentary, pre-built 2D graphics and bring events to life through data-driven stories for compelling viewing and can create deeper engagement through stunning artistry. With some major sporting events on the horizon in 2016, we’re confident that this technology will really elevate sports programming to an even bigger stage.’
For more information visit Ericsson’s website.
