NCKU's Future Star Badminton Winter Camp Introduces AIoT Smart Badminton Equipment for an Efficient and Fun Sports Experience
The AIoT solution provided by NCKU's Artificial Intelligence Digital Transformation Center has four key features. The AI ball machine allows for one-click customization of various training parameters such as speed, frequency, height, and rhythm, simulating real match scenarios and adjusting according to each participant's needs, effectively increasing the number of hits and practice intensity. The smart racket comes with a built-in sports sensor module that precisely records the number of swings, types of hits, and measures swing speed and force, providing immediate feedback so that participants can quickly understand if their movements are correct. The footwork detection system uses AI cameras and sensors to comprehensively analyze the participants' movement trajectory and footwork details, allowing coaches to design engaging challenges and tasks based on data to enhance motivation. At the same time, the cloud computing platform integrates all training data, using deep learning and 3D human posture estimation technology to generate personalized performance reports, and automatically provides tiered coaching and tailored training recommendations based on the participant's performance.
The Director of the NCKU Artificial Intelligence Digital Transformation Research Center and Professor of the Department of Electrical Engineering, Jeen-Shing Wang, stated, "We use inertial signals combined with AI to distinguish different types of shots, and with AI-based image analysis, we can confirm whether the participants' footwork is on point. The application of AI technology not only makes training more precise but also greatly enhances the participants' interest in the training. The AI ball machine acts as a valuable assistant to the coach, accurately catering to each participant's needs and improving the efficiency of facility usage. Through advanced technology and data-driven training, participants can gain a clearer understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, challenge themselves with specific goals, and move towards becoming the next future star!"
Professor Jeen-Shing Wang further pointed out that this AIoT-connected badminton equipment meets the demands of the sports science field for precise motion and digital parameters. Through technology, it quantifies performance indicators, allowing participants to truly see their growth in both technical skills and physical fitness. This innovative model highlights the limitless potential of combining the sports industry with artificial intelligence. It not only brings new commercial value and learning experiences to training venues and sports programs but also creates a safer, more efficient, and futuristic learning environment for badminton enthusiasts. The children participating in this training also expressed curiosity and enjoyment about the technology-driven approach.
The 2025 NCKU Future Star Badminton Winter Camp started on January 21 for a 6-day training program. The event offered a personalized curriculum for each participant, fully integrating the smart badminton equipment and cloud computing platform to provide real-time, professional, and customized coaching. Coaches could also use the objective data provided by the system to quickly assess participants' progress and adjust training methods or content, creating an efficient and friendly learning environment. The organizers hope to continue deepening the application of technology in campus and sports industries, leading more young students to experience the allure of AI-powered sports. With the most advanced AIoT badminton technology as its foundation, the camp encourages students to explore themselves and challenge their limits in a futuristic environment, aiming to become the next badminton star!

Through the use of smart rackets, it is possible to observe the shuttle speed, swing velocity, and power of the player. Additionally, the system allows for the analysis and comparison of data between team members, providing valuable insights into individual and collective performance

Professor Jeen-Shing Wang from the Department of Electrical Engineering and the director of NCKU's Artificial Intelligence Digital Transformation Research Center explained the training progress of participants using the AI-powered data dashboard, which displays real-time insights and metrics about the practitioners' performance

The children participating in the training were also curious about and enjoyed the use of technology in their practice. They found the integration of smart equipment to be both fun and engaging, adding an exciting dimension to their training experience

The Future Stars Badminton Winter Camp held this year introduced, for the first time, the complete set of AIoT smart badminton equipment from NCKU's Artificial Intelligence Digital Transformation Center. The smart shuttlecock launcher allows for one-click customization of various training parameters, including speed, frequency, height, and rhythm, providing a highly personalized training experience