Interactive tennis, anyone?

In 1875, Babolat invented the rst stringed tennis racket. Over 135 years later, the French supplier has created the rst interactive racket the Connect & Play. This innovative new racket was tested for the rst time at this years French Open. Filled with sensors, it is able to decipher in detail all of the users moves. Babolat plans to mass market the Play & Connect next year, as it is currently in the prototype stage.
The development of the Connect & Play took about ve years in collaboration with the French company Movea, which specializes in motion capture.
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Moveas Motion Pod, technology, similar to that installed in the rackets.

DEVELOPMENT AND COLLABORATION

Computer software constantly tracks data on the players game: Hitting power, centring the ball, type of stroke (backhand, forehand), ball e ect (lift, slice, etc.). The gathered information can be used to analyze playing style, set goals, compare daily performace, or even be posted on social networking sites for some fun and friendly competition.
iPod

The rackets wireless connection (Bluetooth) can transmit information in real time to a computer, a tablet or smartphone.

Other uses for the motion sensor

SWIMMING Counting laps Movement analysis GOLF Rotation speed Angle acceleration and speed Position of the club (open, closed) RUNNING Race type Speed Acceleration Trajectory of the feet Calories burned
Sources : Babolat, Movea, Le Figaro

Web Mai Tl ph on e l

Demonstrated at the French Open by:

Rafael

NADAL
Kim

Sensors in the racket are linked to a microelectromechanical system in the handle which continuously measures various parameters. 100 prototypes are being tested around the world before the racket goes on sale in 2013.

CLIJSTERS

Jo-Wilfried

TSONGA
Li

NA

Live statistics including power, speed and stroke type appeared on the big screens and any tablets or smartphones the audience had with them.