Photonics is used in many sporting events. This science will be widely exploited at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, celebrated from July 26 to August 11, 2024. For the first time in the Summer Olympics, the ceremony will take place outside the stadium. In this way, Paris 2024 breaks the codes of sporting competition by bringing sport into the city.

What is Photonics?

We've dedicated an entire article to Photonics. To summarize:

Photonics is the branch of physics concerned with the design and manufacture of components for generating, transmitting, processing and converting optical signals. 

Photonics is the science of light. To be more precise, it's the study of photons, as wave or corpuscle, with a classical or quantum approach. In concrete terms, Photonics relies on specific equipment such as lasers and other light sources, as well as sensors of all kinds.

How Photonics can be used at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

Photonics for the security of Paris 2024

Firstly, the HELMA-P(High Energy Laser for Multiple Applications - Power) system will be deployed. This system, developed by CILAS, is designed to autonomously detect and track moving targets. The aim is to dazzle observation instruments or alter the structure of small drones. It is capable of destroying a target up to 1000 meters away, and is usually coupled with other detection, recognition and identification systems, such as :

• optronics,
• radars,
• non-lethal acoustic effectors,
• ...

Find out more about the HELMA-P system here.

Another, often controversial, aspect is algorithmic video surveillance. We've heard a lot about "augmented cameras" or "smart cameras". In fact, these are video surveillance cameras that can record and detect vehicles or people. To comply with the RGPD, no identification (facial, for example) will be deployed.

To find out more, take a look at our article on the development of advanced image processing & AI algorithms. Or our article on object detection in computer vision.

Photonics for sports analysis at Paris 2024

The aim of these new tools is to increase precision and situational awareness at any given moment. This very important aspect enables athletes to excel in their activities.

Indeed, in many sports, and certainly all those that will be represented at the Paris 2022 Olympic Games, photonics is used to aid sports decision-making:

• Video refereeing,
• Statistical analysis,
• Telemetry,
• Sights,
• ...

In addition, major efforts are being made on the spectator side to enhance the user experience. For example, a new technology enables the creation of 3D images to relive actions with the impression of being in the middle of the pitch. This system creates an immersive experience, placing the spectator at the heart of the action.

This technology, created by Canon and christened the Free Viewpoint Video System, is causing a sensation and greatly improves the user experience in basketball, soccer and rugby, notably at the Rugby World Cup 2023.

How can Imasolia help you in Photonics?

We are a design office staffed by doctors and engineers with expertise in photonics. Whether for the sports, industrial, medical, aeronautical or other sectors, we can develop the tool that meets your needs and expectations.

In fact, we can develop image enhancement and analysis algorithms, laser optical measurement benches or even integrate artificial intelligence on specific sensors (SWIR, etc.).

We'll give you all the help you need to create a customized offer tailored to your needs. Just contact us.

Finally, to find out more about the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, you can visit the official Paris2024 website.