We will get to the advantages and disadvantages of Hawk-Eye technology in just a moment, but first…
What Exactly is Hawk-Eye Technology?
Used in sport, Hawk-Eye, in basic terms, is a camera system. The system is able to trace the trajectory of the ball throughout the game.
In fact, Hawk-Eye is said to offer the most advanced technology for officiating sport.
Roke Manor Research Ltd., the developers of Hawk-Eye, was the first ever company to gain a FIFA Goal Line Technology License.
Hawk-Eye technology is regarded as being the most reliable and most accurate provider of goal-line technology.
Which Sports is Hawk-Eye Technology Utilized in?
Hawk-eye technology is utilized in many sports, inclusive of ice hockey, rugby union, football (both American football and soccer), tennis, cricket, volleyball, horse racing, NASCAR and more.
Hawk-Eye Technology in Football (Soccer)
The use of Hawk-Eye technology in football (soccer), involves the installation of seven cameras which are focused on each goal. In other words, a total of 14 cameras are installed – seven at each end of the field.
Usually, the cameras are installed within the roof of the football stadium.
The cameras are able to determine exactly where the ball went – and exactly where the ball did not go.
The Hawk-Eye system is accurate to the millimeter.
Should the ball cross the line of the goal mouth, the camera system dispatches a signal to the referee. In turn, this offers the capacity for instantaneous feedback to all match officials.
Hawk-Eye Technology in Tennis
The Hawk-Eye system, referred to in tennis as Electronic Line Calling (ELC), has been used in tennis since 2002.
Every year, the technology is utilized in more than 80 tennis tournaments worldwide.
ELC is able to track indents in the court surface (where the ball strikes; where the player’s feet were), track players’ movements, and provide post-point analysis.
The ultra-motion camera can function at up to 340 frames per second. In turn, this renders ball trajectory and bounce mark.
As many as 10 individual cameras are set up around tennis tournament courts.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Hawk-Eye System
Advantages:
- Hawk-Eye aids umpires and game referees to make vital decisions which ultimately could prove to be game-changing decisions.
- Hawk-Eye technology helps to ensure more accuracy with regards to results.
Disadvantages:
- In tennis, there’s a 3.6 mm error margin. Some would argue that the error margin is too large and the Hawk-Eye technology should be even more accurate.
- Hawk-Eye, on occasion, does fail.
- There is an argument that with computerized technology involved, the “natural” beauty of sport is being diminished.
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