A new technology will debut in the sled event of the Sochi Winter Olympics. This technology allows participants, teams and global TV audiences to instantly obtain important data during the competition. Responsible for recording this information is the omega speedometer mounted on the sled.
This innovative device consists of a speed sensor, a 3D acceleration sensor, and a 3D gyroscope sensor, all of which can obtain real-time data.
The speed sensor records the speed of the sled throughout the race. The three-axis gyroscope sensor continuously measures the angular velocity of the sled. Angular speed refers to the speed of the sled as it passes through the curve. The three-axis acceleration sensor can continuously measure the centrifugal force acting on the helmsman during coasting, and each axis can measure different acceleration parameters.
Omega speedometer mounted on a sled
Omega speedometers benefit skiers and their teams because they can use the device to get relevant data in real time, and adjust and improve their training plans accordingly.
Development of Omega Speedometer
Omega began to develop speedometers in October 2011, and encountered various challenges during the development process. On the one hand, the recorded data must be comprehensive enough to serve as the basis for in-depth analysis of coaches and technicians after the game. On the other hand, since real-time data needs to be displayed in real time, wireless transmission of data without delay and fast and simple data processing are also crucial.
The omega single bobsled series led to the development of the speedometer. The application of this device to a small, smooth, streamlined single-handed sledge has resulted in extremely rapid improvements and improvements in its technology.
This innovative device consists of a speed sensor, a 3D acceleration sensor and a 3D gyroscope sensor
Early prototype devices were relatively simple. In the initial stage, in order to guarantee the basic functions, the designer did not add certain specific functions, including the wireless transmission function that was crucial thereafter. A microcomputer is installed next to the prototype equipment circuit in the sled chassis. The sensor data must be recorded directly on this microcomputer. Obviously, the equipment was large and heavy at the time, but the three basic sensors-radar, gyroscope, and accelerator-worked well.
At the end of 2011, the design team took turns to conduct short-range outdoor and indoor tests. At the beginning of 2012, the first video clip could be presented, real-time camera images were played, and the charts were obtained from the synchronous sensor data after the game.
The use of Omega speedometers will make the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics luge more exciting
The focus in 2012 was on improving the wireless transmission components of the device. After months of testing and evaluation, a redesigned prototype was made and used for various field tests in the 2012/2013 season. Obviously, all the functions of the device have reached the standard, including real-time data transmission and conversion of real-time data obtained from several sleds into charts and display on the TV screen.
The omega speedometer has passed comprehensive tests, and its use will make the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics luge event more exciting.