Multi-Sensor Edge Angle Detection for Performance Analysis in Ski Jumping

Abstract

In ski jumping, performance during the gliding phase depends on achieving an aerodynamic posture that maximizes the lift-to-drag ratio. In the V-style technique, the ski edge angle is a key determinant. Reducing the edge angle flattens the skis, increases their effective surface area, and improves aerodynamic lift, ultimately contributing to longer flight distances. Ski edge angles are biomechanically constrained by the limited range of ankle inversion. Current sensing solutions widely quantify these angles using multi-system approaches that combine sensor signals through geometric relations. Such configurations require instrumentation on both the boot and the ski, altering mass distribution, affecting balance during flight, and increasing system complexity. To overcome these limitations, this work presents a wearable sensing system that measures both boot inclination and ski edge angle without modifying the ski surface. Two ultrasonic Time of Flight (ToF) sensors and an in-shoe Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) are integrated into a single boot-mounted unit. Edge angles are estimated by combining ultrasonic distance measurements with IMU data through geometric reconstruction of the boot-ski configuration. Laboratory experiments demonstrate an angle resolution of 0.4500°, a Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 0.2640°, and a coefficient of determination exceeding 99\% when compared with reference measurements, indicating strong linear agreement between the two modalities. The system achieves an end-to-end latency of 30.31 ms, enabling real-time feedback suitable for athlete training, while consuming 1.28 mW of power. With a total weight of only 18.6 g the proposed system enables unobtrusive measurement of ski edge angle and boot orientation.