Comprehensive research phase to evaluate different technology approaches, research existing solutions, determine optimal camera placement (if camera-based), analyze court specifications, and conduct initial feasibility studies. This phase includes literature review, technology comparison, cost analysis, and defining the technical approach before development begins.
Detailed design phase based on research findings. This includes creating detailed system architecture, defining component specifications, designing calibration workflows, planning user interface, establishing development methodology, and creating comprehensive technical documentation. This phase ensures all design decisions are documented before implementation begins.
Build initial proof-of-concept or prototype to validate the selected technical approach. This phase includes basic implementation of core components (ball detection, line detection, calibration), initial testing on controlled scenarios, validation of latency and accuracy targets, and go/no-go decision for full development. Focus is on proving feasibility rather than production-ready code.
Develop minimum viable product (MVP) with core functionality. This phase includes building the complete processing pipeline, implementing ball detection and tracking, court calibration system, boundary detection, decision engine, basic feedback system, and user interface for setup. MVP should demonstrate end-to-end functionality with basic accuracy requirements.
Comprehensive testing and refinement phase. This includes unit testing, integration testing, accuracy testing against ground truth, performance testing (latency validation), environmental testing (different lighting/weather conditions), usability testing with officials and coaches, and iterative refinement based on test results. Goal is to achieve 95% accuracy and <200ms latency requirements.
Real-world field testing on actual pickleball courts during games and tournaments. This phase includes extended operation testing, tournament simulation, real-world accuracy validation, user feedback collection, system reliability testing, and refinement based on field experience. System should be tested in various environments (indoor, outdoor, different courts) with actual players.
Final phase to prepare system for production deployment. This includes production hardening, optimization for reliability and performance, comprehensive documentation (user manuals, technical documentation), training materials for officials and coaches, deployment procedures, maintenance plans, and final validation. System should be ready for tournament use.