SMT has developed multiple virtual reality environment-based solutions to enhance storytelling.

 

For NASCAR, SMT developed the Ghost Car application, which visualizes SMT’s RACEf/x® tracking system data (a combination of GPS location data, NASCAR timing and scoring data as well as car ECU data) in a 3D virtual environment, both live and on-demand.

 

The GhostCar application ingests SMT’s RACEf/x® tracking data and through the easy-to-navigate user interface a producer can cue up any lap from any driver and compare performance vs. any car in the field. The virtual environment allows a producer to place virtual cameras anywhere in the scene to capture unique and compelling vantage points not seen through typical broadcast cameras.

 

The NASCAR RaceView app puts fans behind the wheel with the ultimate immersive and interactive second-screen experience, offering a live 3D virtual video rendering of NASCAR races. RaceView provides a 3D representation of every car and track, in-car audio, driver stats and multiple viewing angles – all in real time.

 

For the NHL, SMT developed OPTICS, which allows for virtual broadcast insertions that enrich the game’s storytelling. By combining OPTICS with its scoring system (HITS), its Puck and Player Tracking (PPT) solution, and its proprietary data platform OASIS, SMT was the first to deliver a comprehensive, end-to-end data and graphics architecture.

 

OPTICS provides broadcasters with the tools they need to seamlessly and easily integrate on-air graphic presentations such as live player inserts, instant replays and package replays. It enhances the viewer experiences with storytelling graphics like pointers, discs and trails that reveal game-winning strategies.

 

SMT's SPRITES app debuted on NHL’s Third Period Live Show, streamed on YouTube during the third period of NHL finals games. The app enables viewers to see a real-time graphical presentation of the action on the ice.

 

This past June, SMT debuted its SPRITES app at Amalie Arena during its Game 5 watch party to cheer on the Tampa Bay Lightning. Over 7,000 fans were rewarded with the ultimate experience: while the ESPN broadcast of the game was shown on the Jumbotron, SMT’s SPRITES app was projected onto the ice of an NHL arena for the first time.

 

The SPRITES app helped fans better follow the game, showing player names and possessions, automatic shot speed displays, yellow circle pulse animations indicating players on the ice more than 45 seconds, red circles for players on the ice more than 90 seconds, an oversized puck, and puck-and-player trails.

 

Footage of the SPRITES app has gone viral with over 6 million views across Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.