Info Image

NTT Data to Launch Virtual Reality Baseball Coaching System

NTT Data to Launch Virtual Reality Baseball Coaching System Image Credit: NTT Data

NTT Data, IT subsidiary of NTT announced it will launch a new virtual reality (VR) baseball coaching system in Japan in 2017, and that they subsequently plan to offer the service globally.

Developed using NTT DATA’s VR technology and in partnership with Rakuten Baseball, the system uses a database of professional players’ videos and performance statistics to generate high quality simulated video images. The new system will be used by Rakuten Baseball which manages the Sendai-based Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles baseball team, in the Japanese Nippon Professional Baseball Pacific League.

The VR baseball coaching system allows the generation of a virtual reality 360-degree 3D baseball field and the projection of pitching images onto the display, providing players with the sensation of standing in a real batter’s box. The system computes vast amounts of pitching data sourced from Rakuten Baseball’s own games, and uses this to generate pitching scenarios. 

The system takes into account the batter’s position in the batter’s box and their changing head directions when they swing the bat, reproducing a matching three-dimensional trajectory of the ball in their field of vision as it is pitched. 

NTT Data said that the players view these images through their head-mounted display; the high quality of the video images ensures no dizziness or discomfort. They can repeatedly experience the pitching motion and trajectory of balls from the batter’s position, allowing them to train prior to encountering various pitchers, and for the whole team to plan their strategy prior to each game.

Akira Ueda, Director of the Baseball Team Strategy Office, Rakuten Baseball
The Rakuten Eagles are keen to deploy the latest technology in the field of sport, and were happy to participate in these trials. Following their conclusion, we have decided to start using the system next season. 

Toshiyuki Hayashida, Head of Life Digital Division at NTT DATA
With the collaboration of Rakuten Baseball we’ve been able to produce a system whose quality is good enough to develop professional baseball players’ skills throughout the entire season, utilizing data that is constantly updated. 

Author

Ray is a news editor at The Fast Mode, bringing with him more than 10 years of experience in the wireless industry.

For tips and feedback, email Ray at ray.sharma(at)thefastmode.com, or reach him on LinkedIn @raysharma10, Facebook @1RaySharma

PREVIOUS POST

Vonage Launches Voice API to Capitalize on Surging Cloud Communications Platform Market

NEXT POST

Optus Selects Gilat’s Integrated VSAT with Small Cells to Extend 3G Coverage to Rural Areas in Australia