Introduction

Casey Fields, a premier multi-sport facility in Cranbourne, Melbourne, is home to various sports teams and hosts numerous community events. To enhance the management of its main AFL training oval, the City of Casey installed an advanced AI powered Sports Field Monitoring System by AlphaX Xvision. This case study explores the installation, functionality, and impact of the monitoring system, which leverages video analytics and artificial intelligence to optimize turf usage and ensure player safety.

Installation and Setup

Efficient Deployment

The installation of the AI powered Sports Field Monitoring System at Casey Fields was completed efficiently. The system includes four high-resolution cameras strategically mounted on the sporting pavilion and the scoreboard. This setup ensures comprehensive coverage of the entire oval.

• Installation Time: The physical installation was completed in one day.
• Software Setup: The software setup and configuration of reporting systems took a few additional days.
• Total Time to Insights: Less than a week from start to finish.

System Functionality

High-Resolution Data Collection

The cameras collect high-resolution video data, capturing every movement on the field. This data is then processed through a sophisticated analysis system.

• Grid-Based Analysis: The oval is divided into grids, and the system tracks the number of people and the amount of time they spend in each grid.
• Heatmap Visualization: The data is overlaid onto a map coordinate system, creating a heatmap that visually represents usage intensity over a digital twin of the oval.
• Utilization Metrics: Detailed metrics about field usage are generated, providing insights into how different areas of the field are used.

Artificial Intelligence in Action

Artificial intelligence plays a crucial role in processing and analyzing the video data. The AI algorithms identify patterns and trends in field usage, offering valuable insights that help in managing the turf more effectively.

Reporting and Insights

Monthly Reports

The system generates comprehensive monthly reports that are sent to the facility managers. These reports include detailed metrics and visualizations that help in understanding the usage patterns of the field.

• Usage Metrics: Information on the number of users, duration of use in each grid, and overall utilization.
• Heatmaps: Visual representations of high and low traffic areas on the field.
• Actionable Insights: Recommendations for maintenance and usage adjustments based on the collected data.

Benefits of the Monitoring System

Enhanced Turf Management

The system provides detailed insights into the wear and tear of the turf, allowing for targeted maintenance and better resource allocation.

• Optimized Maintenance: Identifying high-traffic areas helps in planning targeted maintenance to prevent damage.
• Efficient Resource Use: Insights into field usage enable efficient allocation of resources such as water and manpower.

Safety and Performance

Ensuring a safe and high-quality playing surface is paramount for player safety and performance.

• Safety Monitoring: Detecting usage patterns helps in maintaining a safe environment for players.
• Performance Optimization: Collaboration with teams to adjust training programs based on field usage data.

Operational Efficiency

The system streamlines the management of the sports oval, reducing the workload on facility managers and improving overall efficiency.

• Automated Reporting: Monthly reports are automatically generated and sent to managers.
• Real-Time Monitoring: Continuous monitoring provides real-time data and alerts for immediate action.

Future Expansion

Broader Usage Monitoring

The City of Casey plans to expand the system to monitor other activities on the oval, such as jogging and dog walking. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of all types of field usage, further enhancing management practices.

• Extended Monitoring: Including additional activities like jogging and dog walking.
• Out-of-Hours Usage: The system can detect and report usage outside designated hours, ensuring the facility is used appropriately.

Advanced AI Capabilities

Future updates to the system will incorporate more advanced AI algorithms to provide deeper insights and predictions.

• Predictive Maintenance: AI can predict potential issues before they become significant problems.
• Enhanced Data Analysis: More sophisticated analysis of usage patterns and trends.

Conclusion

The implementation of the Sports Field Monitoring System at Casey Fields has proven to be a valuable asset in managing the main AFL training oval. By leveraging video analytics and artificial intelligence, the system provides detailed insights into field usage, enhances turf management, and ensures player safety. With plans for future expansion and continued integration of AI technologies, the system will continue to deliver significant benefits to the City of Casey and its community.

This case study demonstrates the transformative impact of advanced monitoring technologies on sports field management, highlighting the importance of data-driven decision-making in maintaining high-quality and safe playing surfaces.

References

• Casey Fields – City of Casey
• XVision™ Video Analytics Platform
• Austadiums – Casey Fields