Mark Roberts Motion Control (MRMC), a subsidiary of Nikon, has joined forces with Pixelscope, the premier provider of AI-driven live sports production solutions, in a strategic partnership aimed at revolutionizing sports broadcasting. The collaboration merges MRMC’s cutting-edge robotic hardware with Pixelscope’s sophisticated tracking and autonomous production software, heralding a new era of remote acquisition and production workflows that promises to elevate sports production to unprecedented heights.

The cornerstone of this collaboration is the integration of MRMC’s AFC-180 Robotic Heads with the Pixelscope platform, a culmination of development efforts culminating in a successful trial run at various USA Table Tennis events. In tandem with MRMC’s hardware, Pixelscope introduces an innovative AI-driven sports broadcasting system tailored for seamless single-user operation. Leveraging advanced algorithms, it precisely tracks both the ball and players, furnishing real-time 3D trajectories. Moreover, by harnessing image, audio, and time-series data, Pixelscope facilitates the creation of “Sports Big Data,” seamlessly integrated into AI-driven live sports broadcasts. Notably, Pixelscope’s system automates the generation of highlights, streamlining content production and augmenting broadcasting efficiency, according to company’s statements.

The integration of AI tracking systems and broadcast robotics signals a paradigm shift in the broadcast industry, promising heightened efficiency, precision, and ingenuity, both tech-firms say, adding that this synergy will enable process automation, mitigating human error, and allowing round-the-clock operation, all while delivering tailored content based on viewer preferences.

Marius Merten, Sports Broadcast Manager at MRMC, remarks, “MRMC boasts unparalleled expertise in camera robotics and automation, including AI-driven remote acquisition technologies that empower clients to scale their productions and streamline workflows. While still nascent in the realm of sports broadcasting, this technology extends beyond content capture, seamlessly integrating into the full production spectrum. Pixelscope’s holistic approach and comprehensive software solution perfectly complement our hardware offerings. Our collaboration heralds a groundbreaking product that redefines sports broadcast production, unlocking myriad possibilities to elevate the industry standard while ensuring cost efficiency. I am thrilled to collaborate with Pixelscope in crafting this truly innovative solution.”

Kei Kwon, CEO of Pixelscope, adds, “For years, we’ve strived to develop an AI solution that delivers unrivaled sports data accuracy and quality in a cost-effective manner, transcending boundaries to spotlight underrepresented groups such as youth and amateurs alongside professional leagues. MRMC’s suite of camera robotic solutions and expertise in motion dynamics positions them as the perfect ally in our quest to establish Pixelcast as the premier solution for professional leagues and tournaments across all tiers and sports. I eagerly anticipate the fruits of our collaboration and the transformative impact it will have on sports broadcasting.”