Panasonic and SAP Launch Joint Initiative for Video-Based Sports Analytics Solutions

Panasonic delivers positional data from its video analysis and software which is analysed by the SAP tool during a match. The ultra-wide-angle camera system, developed by Panasonic, consists of four units attached to a rig, with real-time stitching to create a panoramic video four times normal size (64:9).

This set-up makes it possible to capture the action across the entire field. The ultra-wide-angle camera is usually suspended from the ceiling or integrated in to the roof construction of a stadium. It is connected to a computer with Panasonic software detects and collects the geographical data of the players and the ball from the video.

The file containing the raw data is planned to be transferred to the SAP HANA® platform, allowing accurate real-time analysis of the movement of each player and the ball.

Video-based sports analytics, in combination with SAP HANA, is a promising alternative to the method that uses sensors attached to a player’s shin wear or the ball to capture data. Official regulation typically prohibits wearing sensors during a live football match, while the non-intrusive use of video equipment in proximity of the pitch is allowed.

A first prototype of this joint initiative was presented on the Panasonic stand at IBC2014.

About SAP SE
A market leader in enterprise application software, SAP helps companies of all sizes and industries run better. From back office to boardroom, warehouse to storefront, desktop to mobile devices – SAP empowers people and organizations to work together more efficiently and use business insight more effectively to stay ahead of the competition. SAP applications and services enable more than 261,000 customers in 190 countries to operate profitably, adapt continuously, and grow sustainably. Two years ago SAP entered the sports and entertainment business, transforming the industry with innovative solutions that engage fans, teams and leagues. SAP is successfully collaborating with a number of well-known sports organisations and associations in sailing, golf, Formula 1 racing, cricket, American football, baseball, tennis, basketball and football. Especially in football, SAP has been recently getting attention with the analysis of performance indicators for players and teams.

About Panasonic
Panasonic Corporation is a worldwide leader in the development and engineering of electronic technologies and solutions for customers in residential, non-residential, mobility and personal applications. Since its founding in 1918, the company has expanded globally and now operates over 500 consolidated companies worldwide, recording consolidated net sales of 7.70 trillion yen (71.5 billion Euros) for the year ending March 31, 2014. Committed to pursuing new value through innovation across divisional lines, the company strives to create a better life and a better world for its customers.