In Yuki Ota’s Fencing Visualisation, fencers were fitted with motion tracking balls and pressure-sensitive sensors to create amazing graphics reminiscent of major league sports. A Japanese foil fencer, Yuki Ota was the silver medallist at the 2008 Summer Olympics, team silver medallist at the 2012 Summer Olympics, and individual gold medallist at the 2015 World Fencing Championships. He is ranked in first place in the sport as of the 2015-2016 season. Dentsu Lab Tokyo, the a creative design and technology collaborative associated with media giant Dentsu, fitted Yuki and an opponent with motion tracking, and the effect is part dancing, part light show that explains the surface mechanics and skills of fencing.
Dentsu Inc’s project received a D&AD Wood Pencil for Branding/Brand Visualisation. Via D&AD:
Fencing is one of the oldest and most well-known sports in the world. However, very few know its rules. To remedy that, Dentsu designed a visual language and manifestation system that offers audiences an intuitive understanding. Using motion capture and AR technology, the trajectory of the tip of the blade is made visible to spectators. Various techniques executed by competitors are instantly converted into recognisable icons which are displayed on screen, letting the audience know exactly what’s going on.