(Photo by Abby Bonello)
The University of Malta's Department of Artificial Intelligence is undertaking SWIM-360, an innovative research project combining AI with competitive swimming training.
The project, which is led by Dr Vanessa Camilleri includes the development of a sophisticated system integrating video analysis with real-time sensor data to enhance swimming performance.
The €200,000 project introduces explainable AI technology, ensuring coaches and athletes understand and trust the system's recommendations for technique improvement and injury prevention.
While traditionally speaking, swimming analysis relies heavily on manual observation, "SWIM-360 transforms this approach by providing real-time, data-driven insights while maintaining transparency in how these recommendations are generated. This combination of multimodal AI analysis and clear explanation sets our system apart from existing solutions", explained Dr Camilleri.
The research team includes experts and researchers in computer vision, AI systems, and sports science. Dr Dylan Seychell leads the computer vision development, while Prof. Matthew Montebello oversees AI architecture design.
The project builds upon existing swimming analysis research through Project DIVE, extending capabilities with sensor integration and real-time feedback systems.
SWIM-360 aims to reach a Technology Readiness Level that demonstrates system effectiveness in real training environments.
The two-year project, SWIM-360 (2024-2026), financed by Xjenza Malta and the Malta Digital Innovation Authority, through the ‘R&I Thematic Programmes: Digital Technologies Programme involves the Aquatic Sports Association of Malta (ASA) as key stakeholders to ensure practical applications in competitive swimming.
