Digital table tennis scoring device with associated camera unit

Abstract

Digital table tennis scorer (1), with a display unit (2) for displaying a current score, characterized by a) a camera unit (4) associated with the scoring device (1), wherein the camera unit (4) is either integrated into the scoring device or connected to the scoring device or a table by means of an extendable and swiveling mount and is arranged and designed such that, when positioned in the vicinity of the table tennis table, it captures an image stream that completely covers the entire surface of the table tennis table, including the edge zones, and b) an evaluation unit (5) with a machine learning-based classification algorithm that evaluates the image stream, recognizes which player a point should be attributed to, and automatically updates the score on the display unit (2).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a digital scoring device for table tennis, in particular one with a camera unit for recording the game and an evaluation unit for the automated determination of game scores based on imaging methods.

[0002] In table tennis, analog or digital scoreboards are typically used to display the current score, usually positioned on a referee's table in the middle of the net. These devices serve solely as a visual display of the scores for players, referees, and spectators. Transmission of the scores to external systems or networks is not supported by conventional devices and only occurs through manual input into external systems (e.g., tournament software or video transmission overlays).

[0003] Solutions are known from the sports sector in general, where games are recorded or transmitted via camera systems. However, these systems are usually independent of the scoring unit, require separate infrastructure, and mostly serve solely for image transmission or analysis by third parties. Some systems also integrate computer-aided analysis, such as Hawkeye in tennis or goal-line technology in soccer, for example, to evaluate game situations. However, integrating such components into a compact tabletop device with a scoring unit has not yet been achieved.

[0004] Furthermore, there are currently no solutions where a scoring device on site automatically decides, based on live image capture, which player a point should be attributed to and immediately updates the score on a visible display.

[0005] The invention is based on the objective of providing a scoring device for table tennis that offers additional functions beyond simply displaying the score, in particular automated score determination based on imaging techniques, transferability of game information to external systems, and improved usability for players and referees.

[0006] The features of the various aspects of the invention or the various embodiments described below can be combined with each other, unless this is explicitly excluded or is technically impossible.

[0007] The problem is solved using the characteristics of independent claims.

[0008] Further advantageous design features of the present invention are defined in the patent claims.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the invention, a digital table tennis scorer is provided, comprising a display unit for graphically displaying a current score, characterized by a camera unit associated with the scorer, wherein the camera unit is either integrated into the scorer or connected to the scorer or a table by means of an extendable and swiveling mount and is arranged and designed such that, when positioned in the vicinity of the table tennis table, it captures an image stream that completely covers the entire surface of the table tennis table, including the edge zones, and by means of an evaluation unit with a machine learning-based classification algorithm that evaluates the image stream, particularly in real time, recognizes which player is to be credited with a point and automatically updates the score on the display unit.

[0010] The described invention represents the integration of AI-supported image recognition into a scoring system specifically designed for table tennis. The display unit serves to provide immediate visualization of the score for players and spectators. The camera unit is either housed directly in the scoring device's casing or connected to it or the table via a swiveling or height-adjustable mount. Its positioning around the table and the use of a suitable lens—such as a wide-angle or fisheye lens—ensure that the entire playing surface, including the edges, is fully captured. This is particularly important for the precise analysis of ball contacts and for compliance with the rules of table tennis. The evaluation unit utilizes a pre-trained classification algorithm, typically based on a neural network.This algorithm analyzes the video stream in real time and, based on the game situation, recognizes which player the last point belongs to. The recognized score is then automatically displayed on the screen without requiring any manual intervention.

[0011] The camera unit can be mechanically connected to the digital table tennis scoreboard via a swiveling or height-adjustable mount. Such a mount can be designed, for example, as a telescopic arm, an articulated tripod, or an extendable and lockable monopole. The swiveling mount allows the camera angle to be flexibly adjusted to different spatial conditions, such as varying table heights or spectator positions. Height adjustment can be mechanical or motorized and allows, in particular, positioning the camera in a bird's-eye view at a height between approximately 1.25 m and 2.00 m above the hall floor. The camera unit can be connected to the scoreboard via a modular plug-in system, a magnetic quick-release system, or a standardized tripod thread. Alternatively, it can be permanently integrated into the scoreboard housing via a structural connection unit.

[0012] The digital table tennis scorer itself can be implemented in various hardware forms. One compact version could be a standard tablet with an integrated camera unit and specially installed software that displays the score and performs image analysis. Another version could be a modular monitor system where an external processor is connected to a display monitor. In this case, the digital table tennis scorer comprises the display unit, the camera unit, and the analysis unit as separate but functionally linked components. Integration into a touchscreen monitor with a rear-mounted camera module is also possible.

[0013] The display unit can be configured in various ways. Simpler versions are battery-powered e-paper displays offering good readability and low power consumption. Other versions utilize programmable flat panel displays, such as 13-inch or 17-inch TFT or OLED monitors. For use in sports halls or competitive settings, 21-inch or 31-inch monitors are recommended. The size of the display unit can be determined by the expected viewing distance for players, referees, or spectators. Furthermore, the modular design allows for easy maintenance and upgrades, particularly regarding the evaluation logic and image processing hardware.

[0014] A typical implementation includes a scoring device placed next to the table on a referee's table. The camera is mounted on a telescopic bracket and positioned approximately 1.40 m above the floor, capturing the entire table surface. The images are processed by an edge computer, such as an Nvidia Jetson Nano, which runs a convolutional neural network (CNN) for player and ball tracking. The display unit can be an energy-efficient e-ink display that remains easily readable even under bright hall lighting. This combination creates a compact, autonomous system that not only automatically determines and displays the current score but can also operate without a permanent network connection or manual intervention.

[0015] The technical benefit is that a fully automated scoring system is provided, which precisely records the game situation and evaluates it based on predefined rules. This reduces the need for a referee, avoids human scoring errors, and also opens up the possibility of directly connecting other systems – such as tournament management or live streaming – via interfaces.

[0016] In one embodiment of the digital table tennis scorer, the device is provided to have a network interface designed for the automated transmission of the score to an external data network.

[0017] This network interface can be implemented as a wired Ethernet connection or wirelessly via Wi-Fi or a mobile network. It serves to transmit the current score, which is either entered manually or automatically determined by the scoring unit, to a central system in real time or at fixed intervals. Potential target systems include tournament management platforms, live scoring services, video overlay systems, or cloud-based game analysis services. The network interface can also be used to synchronize multiple scoring devices within a tournament network, for example, when scores are to be automatically mirrored on central scoreboards or websites.

[0018] The particular technical advantage of this design is that it eliminates the need for manual data transfer by personnel. It also avoids any transmission errors that might occur during oral or handwritten data entry. Furthermore, the live nature of the score data can be maintained, which is especially beneficial for online broadcasts or digital tournament organization. The network interface can also be used for software updates or for transmitting feedback data (e.g., to improve the classification algorithm).

[0019] A realistic application example is a tournament with multiple simultaneous matches, where each table tennis court has its own scoreboard. Each of these devices automatically sends the current score to a central online system, which in turn uses this data for live tickers, schedule management, or video overlay functions. The connection can be established via a local Wi-Fi network or LTE. Integrating the network interface directly into the scoreboard itself, without a separate additional unit, ensures ease of use and allows operation by non-specialized personnel, such as in schools or clubs.

[0020] In one embodiment of the digital table tennis scoring device, the network interface is provided to transmit the image stream generated by the camera unit as a video recording or live stream to an external data network, wherein the camera unit is arranged and designed such that the captured image area extends beyond the surface of the table tennis table into an additional area that extends at least 2.5 m along the longitudinal axis of the table beyond both end faces of the table.

[0021] This embodiment extends the purely point-based scoring system to include an image-based communication function: The camera not only provides data for internal analysis but also generates a live or archived video stream that can be transmitted to external systems. The camera must be positioned so that not only the table surface itself but also the players' immediate movement area is fully captured. The specification of an additional detection range of at least 2.5 m on both long sides is based on typical movement patterns in table tennis, such as returning a serve from mid-distance or forehand topspins with wide lunges.

[0022] The technical advantage of this design lies in the combined functionality of the camera unit: it serves both for automated score analysis and external visual observation of the game. The video stream can thus be used, for example, for live streaming platforms, referee monitoring, or post-match analysis. Furthermore, integration into a network structure allows simultaneous access by multiple devices or platforms without requiring a separate camera system.

[0023] This creates a largely autonomous, tournament-ready system.

[0024] In one embodiment of the digital table tennis scoreboard, the camera unit is positioned in a range whose horizontal position extends along the extension of the net line at a distance of 0.5 m to 3 m from the center of the net, and whose vertical position is between 1.25 m and 2.00 m above the hall floor. In a more specific embodiment, the camera unit is positioned in a range whose horizontal position extends along the extension of the net line at a distance of 0.75 m to 1 m from the center of the net, and whose vertical position is between 1.25 m and 1.50 m above the hall floor.

[0025] This positional design meets the geometric requirements for visually capturing the game action while simultaneously fulfilling the functionality of a scoreboard display. These positioning areas have proven to be the best possible compromise for both functionalities.

[0026] Positioning the camera along the extension of the net line ensures it is symmetrically aligned with both halves of the court, significantly simplifying algorithmic analysis of the video stream – for example, to determine ball trajectory or player position. The flexible horizontal spacing of 0.5 m to 3 m allows for adaptation to varying spatial conditions, such as limited space, elevated spectator stands, or predefined camera mounts or lenses.

[0027] The vertical positioning, at a height between 1.25 m and 2.00 m, is based on the typical eye level of an umpire sitting in a referee's chair and ensures an approximate bird's-eye view of the table. At the same time, the scoring device remains in a position where it is still easily visible to players and spectators, such as on a traditional umpire's table.

[0028] One specific implementation example is a system in which the digital table tennis scoreboard is mounted centrally at the end of the table on a height-adjustable tripod. The camera sits on a fixed or motorized swivel mount and is positioned 1.5 m high. The horizontal distance from the net line is 1.2 m. The camera's field of view thus completely covers the entire table, including the ball contact zones on both sides. Such a defined placement not only supports the reliability of the AI ​​evaluation but also facilitates the comparability of image data during training sessions and tournaments.

[0029] A practical example is a digital table tennis scoreboard that operates on a specially designed mounting table with an integrated bracket. The camera is positioned exactly 0.9 m from the net line and mounted 1.40 m high. The viewing axis is slightly inclined towards the center of the table. This configuration was previously optimized through image analysis, so that, in conjunction with a standardized classification algorithm, it delivers particularly robust evaluation results. This makes the setup suitable for both automatic point recognition and video-based live broadcasts.

[0030] In one embodiment of the digital table tennis scorer, it is provided that the device has an error correction mode in which the automatically determined score can be overwritten by manually operating an error correction field on the scorer, in particular by simultaneous manual confirmation by both players.

[0031] This embodiment extends the automated scoring system with a fallback option that allows players to intervene directly in the system if incorrect scores are detected. Technically, error correction can be implemented via a special control element on the display unit, such as a touchscreen, dedicated correction buttons, or a two-stage menu system with PIN or color confirmation. To maintain system integrity and prevent unintentional or unilateral interventions, the correction function is preferably only active when both players explicitly confirm the correction, for example, by simultaneously pressing two spaced-apart buttons.

[0032] The technical benefit of this design lies in the combination of automated scoring and human-verifiable oversight: If, for example, the camera unit detects a ball that, according to AI, has still touched the table, but which both players have clearly identified as a fault, the displayed score can be corrected immediately without interrupting the game or resorting to a separate input system. This increases both player acceptance and the legal certainty of the scoring in disputed cases.

[0033] A realistic example is a youth tournament where the digital table tennis scoreboard keeps score automatically, but in cases of close net balls or obscured ball contacts, both players have the option to correct the score by simultaneously tapping an on-screen "correction" symbol. This function is limited to a maximum of 60 seconds after the end of the point, preventing misuse or late intervention. The combination of machine intelligence and human consensus-building skills represents a particularly practical solution here.

[0034] A concrete application example is a league match with video transmission, where the display unit unlocks a short period of 30 to 60 seconds after each point decision, allowing for manual error correction—for example, by the players simultaneously touching two sensor surfaces. If no confirmation is received within this time, the point is recorded. A graphic countdown symbol appears on the display, indicating the remaining opportunity for correction. This clear and rule-compliant structure strengthens trust in the automatic scoring system and simultaneously prevents misuse. Once a new point has begun, manual error correction is no longer possible.

[0035] In one embodiment of the digital table tennis scorer, a logic is implemented that only accepts a change in the score if the evaluation unit falls below a confidence threshold of at least 90% or a manual error correction intervention is performed.

[0036] This configuration describes a system for intelligently controlling the score update, which reacts to the reliability of the classification algorithm used. The evaluation unit, for example, a neural network for ball and player recognition, determines a statistical metric during the point analysis that indicates the probability with which the game event detected by the system was correctly classified. If this so-called confidence value is deemed sufficiently high—for example, at 95%—the score is automatically updated. However, if the confidence value falls below a defined threshold—here, 90%—no automatic update occurs, and the display remains in its previous state until manual intervention by the players.

[0037] Technically, this creates an adaptive trust logic that combines the advantages of automated analysis with safety-relevant fallback levels. It prevents erroneous detections—for example, due to obstructions to vision, light reflections, or atypical game situations—from leading to incorrect scores. At the same time, it enables fast and error-free gameplay with unambiguous data, without interrupting the flow of the game with confirmations.

[0038] A realistic example is a game situation where, during a fast rally, the ball hits the table at an unfavorable angle and is obscured by net flutter. The AI ​​detects the ball contact but rates the detection reliability at only 84%. In this case, the score initially remains unchanged, and a visual symbol on the display prompts the players to confirm the point. Only if both players do so is the score updated. If, however, the confidence level is above 90%, the update occurs immediately and automatically. This differentiated approach enables a particularly robust and reliable process that ensures both speed and dependability.

[0039] In one embodiment of the digital table tennis scorer, the scorer is provided to have a hybrid power supply which includes an interchangeable battery unit with a quick-change mechanism and can alternatively be powered via Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) or mains voltage, whereby the score is retained without interruption when switching between battery operation and external power supply.

[0040] This embodiment concerns the power supply of the scoring device and is specifically tailored to the requirements of mobile or competition-oriented use. The combination of battery operation and external power supply ensures that the device can be operated independently of the infrastructure in a sports hall as well as integrated into existing installations. The quick-change mechanism of the battery unit allows a depleted battery to be quickly replaced with a charged spare without having to switch off or restart the device.

[0041] Power over Ethernet (PoE) offers a particularly compact and reliable alternative, as it enables both power and data transmission over a single cable. Traditional mains power supply via an adapter remains possible, ensuring maximum compatibility.

[0042] The key technical advantage of this hybrid power supply lies in the uninterrupted maintenance of the operating state – especially the current game progress – even during power source changes. This is achieved through a buffered internal power supply (e.g., a small backup battery or supercapacitor) that bridges short switching times.

[0043] A practical example is a tournament day with multiple matches, where the scoreboard is initially used in a mobile, battery-powered mode. As the battery level drops, the device is powered via PoE while simultaneously transmitting the current score to the tournament network via the same cable. The switchover is seamless, requiring neither a device reboot nor re-entering the score. This significantly increases operational reliability and minimizes interruptions to the game.

[0044] In one embodiment of the digital table tennis scorer, the display unit is designed as a bistable, reflective electrophoresis display (E-Paper), which only consumes electrical energy when the displayed content changes and remains practically current-free in the static state, thus enabling the scorer to operate on battery power for several hours without an external power supply.

[0045] This design concerns the display element of the scoring device and is specifically aimed at energy-efficient continuous operation under varying lighting conditions. E-paper displays – also known as E-ink displays – are characterized by the fact that they only require energy when switching content, not for the display itself. The displayed score thus remains permanently visible without a continuous power supply. Furthermore, E-paper displays are low-reflection and easily readable even under bright hall lighting or direct sunlight, making them particularly suitable for use in sports environments.

[0046] Technically, these are usually monochrome or segment-based displays that show clearly structured numerical values. Alternatively, full-graphic displays with a predefined layout can also be used, for example, to show the score, number of sets, or player initials. The display size can vary depending on the application; common formats for sports displays range from 7 to 13 inches. For larger arenas or competition venues, e-paper panels in 21- to 31-inch formats are also conceivable.

[0047] A concrete application example is a scoreboard with a 13-inch e-paper display, connected to the internal evaluation unit via Bluetooth or USB. The score is updated with each point and remains permanently visible afterward, without consuming any further power. This technology allows the device to easily last through a tournament day or several training sessions on a single battery charge. The virtually power-free standby mode also makes the device particularly reliable during extended breaks, without needing to be switched off or losing the score.

[0048] In one embodiment of the digital table tennis scoring device, the camera unit is provided to have a global shutter image sensor with a frame rate of at least 120 frames per second and / or a lens with an adjustable wide-angle field of view from 120° to 170°.

[0049] This requirement pertains to the design of the camera unit with regard to image capture quality and field of view. The use of a global shutter image sensor ensures that all pixels of an image are exposed simultaneously, reliably preventing image distortion during rapid movements – such as those typically caused by ball flight or racket movements in table tennis. In contrast to rolling shutter sensors, which capture the image line by line, this results in a significantly more precise and distortion-free recording of the game situation.

[0050] The high frame rate of at least 120 frames per second helps to clearly capture even fast rallies and short ball contacts. This significantly improves the training and analysis quality of the AI ​​algorithm. Combined with a lens whose viewing angle can be variably adjusted between 120° and 170°, the field of view can be flexibly adapted to different setup positions and room sizes. A wide viewing angle also allows both the table surface and the adjacent player areas to be captured – this is particularly advantageous when the camera is mounted relatively close to the table.

[0051] A practical example is the use of a high-resolution industrial camera with a USB or CSI connection and an interchangeable lens system. The sensor delivers 120 fps at 1080p resolution, and the lens offers manual adjustment of the field of view between 130° and 160°, depending on the distance to the table. These features allow for precise and stable image capture even in fast-paced gameplay and varying lighting conditions. Choosing a global shutter sensor and a wide field of view significantly improves the reliability of automated point detection while simultaneously enabling high-quality video output for streaming or analysis.

[0052] In an embodiment of the digital table tennis scoring device according to one of the preceding claims, it is provided that the classification algorithm implemented in the evaluation unit first undergoes supervised pre-training on an annotated video database of different table tennis playing situations and / or is subsequently automatically retrained from the error correction mode by means of incremental learning.

[0053] This requirement describes how the classification algorithm is developed, improved, and dynamically adapted. In so-called supervised pretraining, a neural network—typically a convolutional neural network (CNN) or a model based on transformer architectures—is initially trained with a large number of manually annotated game scenes. The training database comprises video sequences with associated event descriptions, such as ball contact, point scored, net touch, or player error. In this way, the model learns the relevant feature structures required for subsequent real-time analysis.

[0054] Furthermore, incremental learning ("online learning") allows for subsequent fine-tuning of the algorithm during operation. Whenever players make manual corrections in the game, this feedback can be used to readjust the model. This is typically done by temporarily storing the affected sequence with its corresponding "ground truth" label and later feeding it into the training process. The learning rate can be dynamically adjusted or limited by a local model copy to prevent over-adaptation.

[0055] This design allows for continuous system improvement – ​​both before initial use and during regular tournament operation. The technical benefit is that the scoring device can adapt to new game situations, individual playing styles, or hall conditions without requiring manual reprogramming.

[0056] A concrete example is a device that was initially pre-trained with 5,000 video clips from international matches and subsequently received an additional 200 examples of rare game situations, such as net cords or edge balls, through error corrections from 30 club matches. This measurably increases the precision of the point allocation. This interplay of stable basic training and context-sensitive fine-tuning ensures particularly high robustness of the scoring system in practical use.

[0057] According to a second aspect of the invention, a digital table tennis scorer is provided, with a display unit for displaying a current score, characterized in that it has a network interface designed for the automated transmission of the score to an external data network, wherein the scores are entered by a referee via keypads of the digital table tennis scorer.

[0058] This claim describes a more fundamental variant of the system according to the invention, in which the score is entered manually by the referee, but the results are nevertheless made available digitally automatically. The focus of this aspect is on the possibility that the scoring device forwards the scores immediately after entry via a network connection to an external system, e.g., to a tournament management program, a live ticker, or a scoreboard.

[0059] The technical benefit of this design lies in the automated digitization and transmission of game information, even though the data entry is still done manually. The integration of a network interface avoids a direct break in the media flow: The referee enters the score via a conventional keypad or touchscreen, and this information is immediately made available on other platforms without the need for additional devices or transmission channels.

[0060] A practical example is a digital table tennis scoreboard mounted on a referee's table, featuring a control panel with buttons for "Point Player A" and "Point Player B". The score is automatically displayed on an integrated screen and simultaneously transmitted via Wi-Fi to the central tournament system, where it can be used for scheduling, live streaming, and statistical analysis.

[0061] In one embodiment of the digital table tennis scorer according to the second aspect of the invention, the display unit is designed as a bistable, reflective electrophoresis display (E-Paper), which only consumes electrical energy when the displayed content changes and remains practically current-free in the static state, thus enabling the scorer to operate on battery power for several hours without an external power supply.

[0062] This embodiment relates to the display unit in combination with the manually operated scoring device according to claim 13. E-paper displays, unlike conventional LCD or LED displays, are particularly energy-efficient because they can keep their display content permanently visible without backlighting and without a constant power supply. Energy is only consumed when the displayed content changes – for example, when a player scores a point.

[0063] This technology truly shines in purely manual scoring systems where the display is only updated intermittently: Unlike power-hungry displays that require continuous operation, this system requires minimal energy to run for several hours or even entire tournament days – even without an external power supply. This makes it particularly suitable for use in halls without a continuous power supply or at outdoor tournaments with mobile setups.

[0064] A concrete example is a compact digital scoreboard with a 13-inch e-paper display, controlled by the referee via a tactile control panel. After each point, the score is updated and continuously displayed without the need for the display to be actively illuminated. Power is supplied by a replaceable battery with a runtime of several hours. Even during power outages or transport, the score remains visible. This creates a robust, lightweight, and energy-efficient display system that is particularly reliable in tournament practice.

[0065] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are explained below with reference to the accompanying figures: Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective representation of an embodiment of a digital table tennis scoring device according to the invention.

[0066] Numerous features of the present invention are explained in detail below with reference to preferred embodiments. The present disclosure is not limited to the specific combinations of features mentioned. Rather, the features mentioned here can be combined arbitrarily to form embodiments according to the invention, unless expressly excluded below.

[0067] In Fig.Figure 1 shows a preferred embodiment of a digital table tennis scoring device 1, as used in a table tennis match between two players 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the scoring device 1 is mounted on a height-adjustable stand 10 and positioned approximately one meter away from the table tennis table 24, centered behind the table tennis table. This arrangement allows both good readability of the display unit 2 by the players and a favorable positioning of the camera unit 4 for complete recording of the game.

[0068] The scorer 1 has a display unit 2 on its front, which visually shows the current score. In the depicted game situation, the display unit shows an example score of "5:10". The display unit 2 can be a conventional LED or LCD display, but is particularly advantageous as a reflective electrophoresis display (E-Paper), which only consumes electrical energy when the displayed content changes, remaining practically power-free in a static state. This design allows the scorer to operate autonomously on battery power for several hours without an external power supply.

[0069] A camera unit 4 is integrated into the housing of the digital table tennis scorer 1 and is positioned frontally above the display unit. Alternatively, the camera unit can also be connected to the housing via an extendable and swiveling bracket, allowing for flexible positioning in the horizontal and vertical directions. The camera unit 4 is aligned and optically configured such that, in the illustrated arrangement, it can completely capture the entire surface of the table tennis table 24, including the edge zones. To avoid parallax errors and improve classification quality, the camera is preferably equipped with a wide-angle lens whose field of view is adjustable between 120° and 170°.

[0070] Additionally, the camera can be positioned vertically at a height of between 1.25 m and 1.50 m above the court floor, which corresponds approximately to the eye level of a referee sitting in a referee's chair. This provides a suitable viewing angle for a full, distortion-free recording of the game from a slightly elevated bird's-eye view. Horizontally, the camera can also be flexibly positioned at a distance of approximately 0.75 m to 1.5 m from the center of the net, along the extension of the net line, which promotes the most symmetrical and centered image capture possible.

[0071] The camera unit 4 continuously generates a high-resolution image stream, which is transmitted to an evaluation unit 5 integrated into the device. This evaluation unit includes a classification unit specifically trained for table tennis, based on a machine learning algorithm. The algorithm analyzes the image stream in real time and recognizes, among other things, player movements, ball trajectories, ball contacts on the table surface, net touches, and the final position of the ball. Based on this information, the system automatically identifies which player is credited with the point. The score is then automatically updated on the display unit 2.

[0072] The classification algorithm is trained using a multi-stage process. First, supervised pre-training takes place using annotated video data of real game situations. This is followed by incremental post-training, particularly through feedback from an integrated error correction mode. This mode allows players to manually correct any incorrect decisions made by the automatic evaluation within a defined time frame.

[0073] For this purpose, display unit 2 can be equipped with a touch-sensitive input field or separate keypads. If both players confirm a point within one minute of it being scored, the last scored point can be manually overwritten. After this time, corrections are no longer permitted for rule reasons. Optionally, a confidence rating of the classifier can influence the release of automatic decisions, so that, for example, a manual review is only required if a defined threshold is not met.

[0074] The display and processing unit is connected to an external data network via a network interface 3. This network interface can be either wired (e.g., Ethernet or Power over Ethernet) or wireless (e.g., WLAN). Through this interface, the game score can be automatically fed into a tournament management system, or a real-time video stream can be sent to an online streaming portal. The camera unit can be positioned and optically designed to cover not only the table but also an additional area extending at least 2.5 meters beyond each end of the table. This allows for the recording of player positions and movements, which aids in the allocation of points and provides a spectator's perspective for live streams.

[0075] In an alternative operating mode, the scoring device can also be operated purely manually, i.e., without automated image evaluation. In this mode, the referee enters the scores using keypads. The manually entered scores are then transferred to a results management system via network interface 3. This operating mode is particularly suitable when camera quality is insufficient or lighting conditions are difficult.

[0076] The entire counting device 1 can be modularly designed, with the display unit 2, camera unit 4, and evaluation unit 5 either housed in a common enclosure or in separate enclosures with a defined interface structure. Optionally, the evaluation unit can also be implemented externally as an attached processor unit, for example, in the form of a mini-PC, tablet, or Raspberry Pi-like module.

[0077] Overall, the illustrated embodiment offers a versatile, intelligent and user-friendly scoring device for table tennis that meets the requirements of both modern competitive play and recreational use. Reference symbol list: 1 digital table tennis scorer 2 Display unit 3 Network interface 4 camera unit 5 evaluation unit 10 Stand 20 network 22 players 24 table tennis tables

Claims

[1] Digital table tennis scorer (1), with a display unit (2) for displaying a current score, characterized by a) a camera unit (4) associated with the scoring device (1), wherein the camera unit (4) is either integrated into the scoring device or connected to the scoring device or a table by means of an extendable and swiveling mount and is arranged and designed such that, when positioned in the vicinity of the table tennis table, it captures an image stream that completely covers the entire surface of the table tennis table, including the edge zones, and b) an evaluation unit (5) with a machine learning-based classification algorithm that evaluates the image stream, recognizes which player a point should be attributed to, and automatically updates the score on the display unit (2). [2] Table tennis scoring device according to claim 1, characterized by, that it has a network interface (3) designed for the automated transfer of the game status to an external data network. [3] Table tennis scoring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the network interface (3) is set up to transmit the image stream generated by the camera unit (4) as a video recording or live stream to an external data network, wherein the camera unit (4) is arranged and designed such that the captured image area extends beyond the surface of the table tennis table an additional area which extends at least 2.5 m along the longitudinal axis of the table beyond both end faces of the table. [4] Table tennis scoring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the camera unit (4) is arranged in a position range, - whose horizontal position extends along the extension of the net line at a distance of 0.5 m to 3 m from the center of the net and - whose vertical position is at a height between 1.25 m and 2.00 m above the hall floor. [5] Table tennis scoring device according to claim 4, characterized by , that the camera unit (4) is arranged in a position range, - whose horizontal position extends along the extension of the net line at a distance of 0.75 m to 1 m from the net center and - whose vertical position is at a height between 1.25 m and 1.50 m above the hall floor. [6] Table tennis scoring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the display unit (2) has an error correction mode in which the automatically determined score can be overwritten by manually operating an error correction field on the counter, in particular by simultaneous manual confirmation by both players. [7] Table tennis scoring device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the error correction mode is locked no later than one minute after the end of a point, so that this point can no longer be corrected. [8] Table tennis scoring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a logic is implemented which only accepts a change in the game score if the evaluation unit (5) falls below a confidence threshold of at least 90% or a manual error correction intervention is performed. [9] Table tennis scoring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that it has a hybrid power supply which includes an interchangeable battery unit with a quick-change mechanism and can alternatively be powered via Power-over-Ethernet or mains voltage, whereby the game progress is retained without interruption when switching between battery operation and external power supply. [10] Table tennis scoring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the display unit (2) is designed as a bistable, reflective electrophoresis display (E-Paper) which only consumes electrical energy when the displayed content changes and remains practically current-free in the static state, thus enabling several hours of battery operation of the counter without an external power supply. [11] Table tennis scoring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the camera unit (4) has a global shutter image sensor with a frame rate of at least 120 frames per second or a lens with an adjustable wide-angle field of view from 120° to 170°. [12] Table tennis scoring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the classification algorithm implemented in the evaluation unit (5) first undergoes supervised pre-training on an annotated video database of different table tennis game situations and / or is subsequently automatically retrained from the error correction mode using incremental learning. [13] Digital table tennis scorer (1), with a display unit (2) for displaying a current game score, characterized by , that it has a network interface (3) designed for the automated transmission of the score to an external data network, the scores being entered by a referee via keypads of the digital table tennis scorer. [14] Table tennis scoring device according to claim 13, characterized by , that the display unit (2) is designed as a bistable, reflective electrophoresis display (E-Paper) which only consumes electrical energy when the displayed content changes and remains practically current-free in the static state, thus enabling several hours of battery operation of the counter without an external power supply.

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