Spatial Measurements for Artificial Turf Systems Using Hall Effect Sensors

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a bespoke spatial measurement methodology using Hall Effect Sensors (HES), i.e., utilizing inductance between a permanent magnet and sensor to indirectly measure the magnet position. The aim is to embed the magnet in a boot’s stud and use an array of sensors in the artificial turf. To evaluate the accuracy and applicability of a HES system in sports turf, two studies were carried out. To measure the spatial position vertically, a standard mechanical dynamic impact testing with the magnet embedded, and the sensors below the turf carpet, was compared to the gold standard optical reference measurement system (GOM UK Ltd.: Coventry, UK) . A second study evaluated the horizontal spatial accuracy for sensors in a variable array with a controlled incremental step movement of the magnet on a precise engineering workshop table.