Performance of Low-Cost TinyML Embedded Systems for Real-Time Classification of Table Tennis Strokes

The integration of sensor technology and artificial intelligence is revolutionizing athletic training. This paper presents a novel cost-effective smart table tennis racket embedded with a nine-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU) for real-time stroke classification directly on the device. Unlike systems that are reliant on external computation, our approach leverages Tiny Machine Learning (TinyML) to deploy a customized Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model onto a microcontroller unit (STM32F7), enabling real-time inference at the edge. The system captures accelerometer and gyroscope data, which is automatically segmented via a recursive algorithm and classified into six fundamental strokes (e.g., forehand/backhand stroke, pull, and chop) or a non-swing state. The classified results are wirelessly transmitted to a computer application for real-time feedback. Experimental results with actual players demonstrate that the optimized CNN model achieves an average classification accuracy of 98.3% in controlled tests and over 94% in mixed-stroke scenarios, validating the system’s high accuracy and robustness. This work exemplifies the practical implementation of an end-to-end intelligent sensor system, highlighting the potential of TinyML to enable advanced, low-power motion analysis in sports.