Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a decision assistance and safety device for in-ground cricket officials that aids the officials in making real-time decisions with enhanced accuracy by automatically estimating a percentage possibility of a batsman being out or not out and analyze surface condition of the cricket ball for wear and tear, while also provides safety to the officials during play by monitoring ball trajectory and producing audio alerts to guide the official to avoid potential injuries.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Accurate decisions during a cricket match are crucial to ensure fair play and maintain the integrity of the game. On-field officials face challenges in making split-second decisions for run-outs and no-balls due to fast-paced action, player movements, and varying angles of view. Factors like close run-out calls, marginal front-foot no-balls, and unpredictable ball trajectories make decision-making complex, often leading to human errors. Monitoring ball condition is equally important, as an altered or damaged ball impact swing, seam movement, and overall game balance. Additionally, umpire safety is critical, as officials stand close to high-speed deliveries and powerful shots, requiring protective gear and quick reflexes to avoid injuries while ensuring smooth match proceedings.

[0003] Traditionally, cricket officials relied on their eyesight, experience, and basic tools like stopwatches, counters, and line markings to make decisions. For run-outs, umpires visually judged whether the bat crossed the crease before the stumps were broken. No-ball calls were made by observing the bowler’s front foot placement in real-time. Umpires also monitored ball condition manually, checking for excessive wear or tampering. To protect themselves, umpires used minimal protective gear, such as hats, sunglasses, and occasionally shin guards. Unlike modern times, they lacked helmets or chest protectors, making them vulnerable to injuries from high-speed balls or deflections. Player behavior was monitored through on-field observations and verbal warnings. Umpires relied on personal judgment to control misconduct, often missing subtle infractions. The drawbacks of these traditional methods included human error, limited accuracy in close calls, and an inability to detect minor rule violations, leading to potential unfair decisions and inconsistent enforcement of the game’s rules.

[0004] US5084695A discloses about an umpire's counter provided with a housing having a top face and a bottom face. On the side of the housing between the faces, inputs for advancing a balls display, a strikes display, an outs display and an inning display are provided. A separate button is provided for clearing at least the strikes and balls display. A strap can be provided on the back of the umpire's counter which encircles the umpire's hand of encircles two of the umpire's fingers. The strap enables the umpire to make a "safe call" without dropping the counter. An audible output is provided for indicating when at least the balls or strikes displays have been advanced. Each of the inputs are provided in recesses with covers to prevent inadvertent actuation of the displays. A time, score or alarm set display is provided and buttons are provided for advancing the home and visitors score or advancing the hours and minutes during alarm setting. The counter readily fits in an umpire's hand and provides selectively illuminatable displays which are easy to see even when the game is played under lights.

[0005] US5394564A discloses about a strike zone mask that provides an image of a batter's strike zone for increasing the precision with which an umpire may judge whether or not a pitched ball was a strike. A lens carriage is provided within the viewing opening of the mask, the carriage and lens intercepting the umpire's field of vision in one eye. Lenses within the carriage have vertical scored lines defining the horizontal width of home plate, and a horizontal bar adjustably affixed to the front of the carriage across the lower portion of the lens permits adjusting the height of the strike zone to different players by aligning the top of the lens with the batter's shoulders and the horizontal bar with his knees.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed that are capable of providing assistance to in-ground cricket officials in making decisions. However, these existing devices are incapable of providing safety to the officials by analyzing the trajectory, speed, and direction of an approaching cricket ball, and fails in providing real-time alerts to avoid potential injuries. Additionally, these existing devices also lack in automatically performing condition analysis of the ball to detect excessive wear and tear, and fails to reduce manual efforts of the officials.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to facilitate in-ground cricket officials in making accurate decisions by monitoring the possibilities of a batsman being out or not and the ball is a no-ball or not and accordingly notifies the official to assist in decision making. In addition, the developed device also need to provide real-time alerts by detecting and analyzing the trajectory, speed, and direction of an approaching cricket ball to avoid potential injuries.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing a decision assisting and safety means to a cricket official such as an umpire, thereby enhancing officiating accuracy during a cricket match.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing an impact-resistant, temperature-regulated, and ergonomically designed wearable safety means to the in-ground officials.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that provides automatic detection of no-balls, including overstepping at the bowler’s crease and high no-balls based on batsman height, thereby improving officiating consistency.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of tracking player behavior, and alert the official when inappropriate player conduct is detected, thus ensuring sportsmanship and adherence to the game's code of conduct.

[0013] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of performing real-time condition analysis of the ball to detect excessive wear and tear, ensuring that only playable balls are used in the game.

[0014] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The present invention relates to a decision assistance and safety device for in-ground cricket officials that is capable of assisting in-ground cricket officials in making accurate decisions regarding no-balls, run-outs, fielding restrictions, ball condition, and player conduct monitoring. Further, the device is capable of detecting and analyzing the trajectory, speed, and direction of an approaching cricket ball, and accordingly providing real-time audio alerts to avoid potential injuries to the officials.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a decision assistance and safety device for in-ground cricket officials, comprises of a body constructed with an elongated plate integrated with a circular member developed to be worn by a concerned individual officiating in a cricket match over arm portion, a pair of straps are attached with the plate for securing the plate around the arm in order to secure the plate on the in-ground official’s arm portion, multiple pressure sensors installed on the plate and straps for detecting pressure applied by the plate and straps on the arm portion, a pair of motorized rollers integrated within the plate and straps for rotating on its axis to properly fit the plate and straps around the user’s arm, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the plate and integrated with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity of the plate, respectively to determine positioning of the official on ground surface along with posture of the official, an ultrasonic sensor integrated on the plate for monitoring parameters including distance and direction of a cricket ball approaching towards the plate, an anemometer is installed on the plate for monitoring velocity of wind in surrounding of the plate, a speaker installed on the body to produce audio alerts that guides the user to deploy the body at an optimum position ensuring safety during play, multiple laser sensors installed on the body aimed at bowler’s crease and synced with the imaging unit to monitor bowler’s position for detecting overstepping, upon successful detection the microcontroller actuates the speaker to alert the official through an audible notification, a RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) gun embedded on the plate to track ball’s speed and position during a play, the imaging unit monitors batsmen’s foot position relative to batting crease and the microcontroller analyzes the collected data to estimate a percentage likelihood of the batsman being out or not out, which is communicated to the official through an audible prompt for assisting the official in making informed decisions, a compartment provided on the plate and integrated with multiple optical sensors to analyze surface condition of the cricket ball for wear and tear.

[0017] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the device further comprises of a motor with a suction cup is provided with the compartment that rotates the ball and assists the optical sensors in scanning ball’s surface for irregularities and generating a health score based on ball’s condition, the body is fabricated with a dual-layered padding, an inner layer comprising a soft cushioning and outer layer is composed of impact resistant material for enhancing protection against high-speed impacts, the padding is integrated with a Peltier unit coupled with a temperature sensor to ensure official’s comfort during play by regulating temperature based on environmental conditions, multiple shock-absorbing springs are installed between the two layers to distribute impact of a high-speed ball and reduce transmitted shock to official’s arm, an expansion pulley assembly is integrated within the circular member to customize the member’s diameter, depending on official’s position relative to trajectory of approaching ball, a laser measurement sensor is integrated on the body and synced with the imaging unit to calculate height of batsman in real-time to detect whether a no-ball is bowled based on ball’s trajectory and height of the batsman for providing an alert to umpire via the speaker, imaging unit monitors the fielding setup, ensuring compliance with rules regarding number of fielders allowed outside the 30-yard circle during and/or power play and providing an alert to the official if a rule violation is detected, multiple distance sensors are installed on the plate to monitor batter’s bat and stumps during a run-out attempt for determining whether bat has crossed crease or whether stumps are broken and providing an alert to the official if a run-out occurs, multiple LEDs are positioned along perimeter of the plate and each LED lights up sequentially to indicate the progress of the over for providing the official with a visual cue of over's status, ensuring correct tracking of overs during game, a gyroscopic sensor is embedded in the body to monitor orientation of official’s arm and posture, a haptic feedback unit integrated with the plate to alert the official to correct their stance, a high-sensitivity microphone is integrated into the plate to monitor player(s) behavior and when inappropriate player conduct is detected, an alert is sent to umpire via the speaker.

[0018] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates a top view of a decision assistance and safety device for in-ground cricket officials; and
Figure 2 illustrates a bottom view of the device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0021] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0022] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0023] The present invention relates to a decision assistance and safety device for in-ground cricket officials that provides an impact-resistant and temperature-regulated wearable means for a cricket official that assist the official in making accurate decision over the field by automatically detecting no-balls, including overstepping at the bowler’s crease and high no-balls based on batsman height. Additionally, the present invention provides real-time alerts to the officials by detecting and analyzing the trajectory, speed, and direction of an approaching cricket ball to avoid potential injuries.

[0024] Referring to Figure 1 and 2, a top view and a bottom view of a decision assistance and safety device for in-ground cricket officials are illustrated, respectively, comprising a body 101 constructed with an elongated plate 102 integrated with a circular member 103, a pair of straps 201 are attached with the plate 102, a pair of motorized rollers 202 integrated within the plate 102 and coiled with the straps 201, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 installed on the plate 102, a speaker 105 installed on the body 101, a RADAR gun 106 embedded on the plate 102, a compartment 107 provided on the plate 102, a motor 108 with a suction cup 109 is provided with the compartment 107, the body 101 is fabricated with a dual-layered padding 110, an expansion pulley assembly 111 is integrated within the circular member 103, multiple LEDs 112 are positioned along perimeter of the plate 102, a haptic feedback unit 113 integrated with the plate 102, and a high-sensitivity microphone 114 is integrated into the plate 102.

[0025] The device disclosed herein comprises of a body 101 constructed with an elongated plate 102 that is integrated with a circular member 103 incorporating various components associated with the device and developed to be worn by a concerned individual officiating in a cricket match over arm portion. The body 101 serves as the core structure and a pair of straps 201 are attached with the plate 102 for securing the plate 102 around the arm in order to secure the plate 102 on the in-ground official’s arm portion.

[0026] Upon securing the body 101 over the arm portion, the user is required to activate the device manually by pressing a button installed on the body 101 and connected with an inbuilt microcontroller associated with the device. The button is a type of switch that is internally connected with the device via multiple circuits that upon pressing by the user, the circuits get closed and starts conduction of electricity that tends to activate the device and vice versa.

[0027] After activation of the device by the user, multiple pressure sensors installed on the plate 102 and straps 201 are activated by the microcontroller for detecting pressure applied by the plate 102 and straps 201 on the arm portion, respectively. The pressure sensor contains a piezoelectric material, which generates a voltage in response to mechanical stress. When a pressure is applied by the plate 102 and straps 201 on the user’s arm portion, it deforms the piezoelectric material, creating a strain. This strain results in the generation of an electric charge across the material, producing a voltage signal proportional to the applied pressure. The generated voltage is typically very small so the signal is amplified to make it suitable for further processing by the microcontroller.

[0028] The microcontroller continuously processes the signals received from the pressure sensors in order to monitor the pressure applied by the plate 102 and straps 201 on the arm portion and accordingly the microcontroller actuates a pair of motorized rollers 202 integrated within the plate 102 and coiled with the straps 201 for rotating on its axis to properly fit the plate 102 and straps 201 around the user’s arm.

[0029] The motorized rollers 202 used herein is a mechanical unit designed to rotate on its axis with the help of an integrated electric motor. The roller consists of a cylindrical roller tube that serves as a surface for accommodating the straps 201. The motorized rollers 202 are equipped with an electric motor that provides the rotational power necessary to turn the rollers 202. The motor is connected to the roller tube through a drive means, which involves gears, belts to transfer the motor’s rotational force to the rollers 202, causing the rollers 202 to spin and wrap/unwrap the straps 201 to properly fit the plate 102 and straps 201 around the user’s arm.

[0030] Once the plate 102 is secured, the microcontroller activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 installed on the plate 102 and integrated with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity of the plate 102, respectively to determine positioning of the official on ground surface along with posture of the official. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 comprises of a high-resolution camera lens, digital camera sensor and a processor, wherein the lens captures multiple images from different angles and perspectives in vicinity of the plate 102 with the help of digital camera sensor for providing comprehensive coverage of the official.

[0031] The captured images then go through pre-processing steps by the processor integrated with the imaging unit 104. The artificial intelligence protocols integrated into the processor, including machine learning and computer vision protocols, optimize image processing by enhancing feature extraction and classification. The captured images undergo pre-processing steps such as adjusting brightness, contrast, and noise removal to enhance quality. These refined images are transmitted to the microcontroller linked with the processor in the form of electrical signals.

[0032] The microcontroller linked with the imaging unit 104, processes the received data to determine the positioning of the official on ground surface for clear visibility of critical game actions, along with posture of the official. Simultaneously, an ultrasonic sensor integrated on the plate 102, monitor parameters including distance and direction of a cricket ball approaching towards the plate 102. The sensor continuously emits high-frequency sound waves, which reflect off the incoming ball and return to the sensor. The sensor calculates time-of-flight data to determine the ball’s real-time location relative to the official’s position. This information is processed by the microcontroller, which analyzes the trajectory of the ball and assesses whether it poses a potential impact risk to the official.

[0033] To enhance decision-making accuracy, the ultrasonic sensor works in conjunction with an anemometer installed on the plate 102, to measure wind velocity in the surrounding environment of the plate 102. The anemometer uses ultrasonic sound waves to determine instantaneous wind speed by measuring the quantity of sound wave travel between a pair of transducers that are step up or step down by the effect of wind. The anemometer works on the principle that the travel time of sound waves through the air is affected by the wind speed component parallel with the direction. The anemometer sends the determined speed/direction to the microcontroller in the form of an electrical signal.

[0034] The microcontroller processes the signal received from the anemometer to detect the wind speed in surrounding of the plate 102. By considering the wind speed and direction of the cricket ball approaching towards the plate 102, the microcontroller enhances the calculations to evaluate a probable trajectory for the approaching ball. If the microcontroller detects an imminent collision or close proximity of the ball to the official, the microcontroller activates a speaker 105 installed on the body 101 to produce audio alerts that guides the official to deploy the body 101 at an optimum position, for ensuring safety during play. The speaker 105 used herein is capable of producing clear and natural sound and is capable of adjusting its volume based on ambient noise levels.

[0035] The speaker 105 consists of audio information, which is in the form of recorded voice, synthesized voice, or other sounds, generated or stored as digital data. The digital audio data is converted into analog electrical signals. Further the analog signal is amplified by an amplifier and the amplified electrical audio signal is then sent to a diaphragm, which is typically made of a lightweight and rigid material like paper, plastic, or metal, and is designed to vibrate or move back and forth when electrical signals are fed to it. This movement creates pressure variations in the surrounding air, generating sound waves in order to generate the audible alerts that guides the official to deploy the body 101 at an optimum position, ensuring safety during play.

[0036] The body 101 is fabricated with a dual-layered padding 110 to provide enhanced protection to the official during play. The inner layer comprises a soft cushioning material, ensuring comfort and shock absorption, particularly when the device is worn for extended durations. This cushioning conforms to the contours of the user’s arm, for preventing discomfort and reducing strain. The outer layer is composed of an impact-resistant material, to withstand high-speed ball impacts that often occur during a match. This rigid outer shell serves as a protective barrier, effectively distributing force and minimizing the risk of injuries to the official.

[0037] Multiple shock-absorbing springs are positioned between the inner cushioning layer and the outer impact-resistant layer. These springs function as energy dissipators, for effectively reducing the force of impact when a high-speed cricket ball strikes the official’s arm. Upon impact, the outer layer absorbs the initial force, while the springs compress to distribute and dissipate the energy evenly across the padding 110. This significantly reduces the transmitted shock, for minimizing the risk of bruising, discomfort, or injury to the official’s arm, ensuring maximum protection during play.

[0038] The padding 110 is integrated with a Peltier unit coupled with a temperature sensor, for ensuring optimal thermal regulation for the official during play. The temperature sensor continuously monitors the ambient temperature and the official’s skin temperature. The temperature sensor detects the temperature by optical analysis of the infrared radiation present in surrounding. On activation, the sensor employs a lens to focus the infrared radiation emitting from the official’s skin, onto a detector known as a thermopile. When the infrared radiation falls on the thermopile surface, it gets absorbed and converts into heat. Voltage output is produced in proportion to the incident infrared energy. The detector uses this output to detect the temperature of the official’s arm and the surrounding. The measured temperature is then converted into electrical signal which is received by the microcontroller.

[0039] The microcontroller processes the signals received from the temperature sensor in order to monitor the ambient temperature and the official’s skin temperature. Based on the detected temperature conditions, the microcontroller activates the Peltier unit to adjusts the temperature, by either cooling or warming the padding 110 to maintain a comfortable level. The Peltier unit consists of two semiconductor materials connected in a sandwich-like fashion. These materials are typically made of bismuth telluride and one side of the Peltier unit is called the hot side and the other is the cold side. When a direct current is applied to the Peltier unit, electrodes within the semiconductor material start moving from one side to the other. The Peltier effect occurs as a result of electron movement.

[0040] When electrons flow from the cold side to the hot side, they carry heat with them. This leads to one side of the Peltier unit becoming colder, and the other side becoming hooter. This effect allows the Peltier unit to effectively transfer heat from one side to the other, creating a temperature gradient in order to maintain optimal temperature of the padding 110, preventing discomfort caused by excessive heat or cold and allowing the official to focus entirely on officiating without distractions.

[0041] An expansion pulley assembly 111 is integrated within the circular member 103, wherein based on the official’s position relative to trajectory of approaching ball, the microcontroller actuates the expansion pulley assembly 111 to dynamically expands or contracts the member’s 103 diameter for optimizing the member’s 103 protective coverage to shield the official’s arm during a high-speed ball delivery. The expansion pulley assembly 111 used herein comprises a series of interconnected pulleys, each connected to a small motor controlled by the microcontroller. Based on the official’s position relative to trajectory of approaching ball, the microcontroller activates the motors to either expand or contract the pulleys. When an incoming ball is detected at a potential impact trajectory, the circular member 103 expands, widening the protective coverage to absorb and mitigate the force of impact. Conversely, if the ball is not posing an immediate threat, the member 103 contracts, ensuring unobstructed movement and maintaining the device’s compact and ergonomic fit.

[0042] The microcontroller in association with a gyroscopic sensor embedded in the body 101, continuously monitor orientation of official’s arm and posture during a cricket match. The sensor detects any deviation from a pre-defined correct position, ensuring that the official maintains optimal alignment with the stumps for accurate decision-making.

[0043] The gyroscopic sensor consists of a spinning rotor that maintains its axis of rotation regardless of the orientation of the official. When the official changes his/her arm’s orientation and body posture, the gyroscopic sensor rotor tends to resist this change due to its angular momentum. The resistance to changes in orientation allows the gyroscopic sensor to monitor orientation of official’s arm and posture. By measuring the forces applied as the rotor resists the changes in orientation, the gyroscopic sensor analyzes rotational motion and angular displacement, and transmit real-time data to the microcontroller.

[0044] The microcontroller processes the information to determine whether the official’s posture is misaligned or if their positioning compromises their ability to make accurate calls. If the orientation of the official deviates from a pre-defined correct position, the microcontroller actuates a haptic feedback unit 113 integrated into the plate 102, for delivering vibrational alerts to alert the official to correct their stance. The haptic feedback unit 113 works by converting electrical energy into mechanical vibrations. The unit consist of a small motor with unbalanced weight attached to its shaft. On actuation by the microcontroller, the motor spins the unbalanced weight creates a vibrating motion, to generate vibrational sensations of pre-defined intensity over the official body to alert the official to correct their stance.

[0045] Multiple laser sensors are deliberately installed on the plate 102, aimed directly at the bowler’s crease, to monitor the precise foot placement of the bowler during delivery. These sensors emit narrow laser beams parallel to the crease, creating an invisible boundary that serves as a reference for detecting overstepping. The laser sensors are synchronized with the imaging unit 104, which continuously captures the bowler’s movements in real time. If the bowler’s front foot crosses the popping crease while delivering the ball, the laser sensors detect the breach and transmit the data to the microcontroller for analysis.

[0046] Upon confirmation of an overstep, the microcontroller actuates the speaker 105 to generate an audible notification, for immediately alerting the on-field official of the infraction. This eliminates the need for manual observation, ensuring that no-balls are detected with higher precision and reducing human error. Further, a RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) gun 106 embedded within the plate 102 is activated by the microcontroller to track the speed, trajectory, and position of the cricket ball in real time.

[0047] The RADAR gun 106 consists of a transmitter, receiver, and a signal processor. The transmitter emits high-frequency radio waves that travel toward the moving ball. When these waves hit the ball, they reflect back to the receiver. The RADAR gun 106 applies the Doppler effect, where frequency shifts in the reflected waves indicate the ball’s velocity. The signal processor calculates speed and position data based on the time delay and frequency shift of the returning waves. The results are then transferred to the microcontroller.

[0048] Simultaneously, the imaging unit 104 monitors the batsman’s foot position relative to the batting crease. The imaging unit 104 detects whether the batsman has stepped out of the crease while playing a shot or attempting a run. The microcontroller analyzes this collected data, comparing ball position, batsman movement, and potential dismissal scenarios such as stumping, LBW (Leg Before Wicket), or run-outs, and estimate a percentage possibility of the batsman being out or not out, which is further communicated to the official through an audible prompt via the speaker 105, for providing quick, real-time assistance to officials without disrupting the match flow and assisting the official in making informed decisions.

[0049] A set of distance sensors are installed on the plate 102 to monitor the position of the batter’s bat and the stumps during a potential run-out attempt. These sensors continuously scan the wicket area and track the relative position of the bat, batter’s feet, and the crease line in real-time. The sensors consist of an emitter and a receiver. The emitter (using infrared, ultrasonic, or laser technology) sends out pulses toward the bat and stumps. These pulses reflect off the bat and stumps and return to the receiver, which measures the time taken for the pulses to return. The microcontroller processes this data to determine the exact position of the bat relative to the crease and the stumps. If the bat is outside the crease when the stumps are disturbed, the microcontroller instantly alerts the official via audio notifications for decision-making in close run-out situations.

[0050] A laser measurement sensor is integrated on the plate 102 and synced with the imaging unit 104 to continuously measure the height of the batsman in real-time. The sensor emits precise laser beams that reflect off the batter’s headgear or upper body, for allowing the sensor to accurately determine height variations based on different batting stances. This real-time height data is crucial in detecting waist-high no-balls, particularly in situations where bowlers deliver full tosses that deemed dangerous or unfair.

[0051] The microcontroller processes the collected height data and cross-references it with the ball’s trajectory, as captured by the imaging unit 104. If the microcontroller detects that a delivered ball exceeds the allowable waist-high threshold based on the batsman’s standing height, the microcontroller automatically triggers the speaker 105 to provide an audible alert to the official of potential no-ball violations, allowing for quicker and more consistent decision-making.

[0052] The imaging unit 104 continuously monitors the positioning of fielders on the cricket field, ensuring compliance with regulations governing field placements. The imaging unit 104 captures real-time images and utilizes machine learning protocols to detect the number of fielders stationed outside the 30-yard circle, particularly during power play overs or restricted fielding periods. By analyzing the spatial distribution of fielders, the linked microcontroller determines whether the fielding setup aligns with the legal requirements set by match regulations.

[0053] If the microcontroller detects a fielding violation, such as exceeding the allowed number of players outside the inner circle, the microcontroller triggers an audible alert via the speaker 105, for notifying the on-field official of the violation. This reduces human error in assessing fielding restrictions, ensuring that teams adhere to proper fielding strategies and maintain fairness throughout the match.

[0054] Further, a compartment 107 is provided on the plate 102, that is accessed by the official to accommodate a ball that is to be inspected for wear and tear, over a suction cup 109 mechanically coupled with a DC (direct current) motor 108 installed within the compartment 107. The suction cup 109 is used to create a vacuum seal between the ball and the motor 108. When the ball is pressed against the suction cup 109 by the official, the initial contact creates a seal between the cup’s flexible rim and the ball. The suction cup 109 used herein is made up of silicone rubber that easily eliminates pressure inside the suction cup 109 for creating a vacuum between the cup and the ball in order to affix the ball firmly with the motor 108.

[0055] Afterwards, multiple optical sensors integrated with the compartment 107, analyze surface condition of the cricket ball for wear and tear. The optical sensors employ high-resolution imaging and infrared scanning to detect scuff marks, cracks, deformations, or excessive discoloration on the ball’s surface, ensuring compliance with match regulations and maintaining fair play. The sensor consists of a light source, image sensor, and a processor. The light source (such as an LED or laser) illuminates the ball's surface, while the image sensor (such as a CMOS or CCD camera) captures high-resolution images. These images are processed by the processor, which compares the ball's surface texture, gloss, and seam integrity against predefined standards stored in a database linked to the microcontroller.

[0056] Simultaneously, the microcontroller actuates the motor 108 to provide controlled rotation to the ball, ensuring that the entire surface of the ball is scanned without causing unnecessary stress or damage, for the detection of scuff marks, cracks, discoloration, and deformations that affect gameplay. The collected data from the optical sensors is processed by the microcontroller, which then generates a condition report and assigns a health score to the ball based on ball’s condition. This score is further notified to the official via an audio alert from the speaker 105, in order to allow the user to determine whether the ball is in playable condition.

[0057] Multiple LEDs 112 (Light Emitting Diode) are positioned along perimeter of the plate 102 for forming a visual indicator to assist the official in tracking the progress of an over. Each LED is assigned to represent one delivery in an over, sequentially illuminated by the microcontroller as each ball is bowled. This ensures that the official maintains an accurate count of deliveries, minimizing human error in tracking overs, particularly during high-pressure moments in the game.

[0058] The microcontroller manages the activation of LEDs 112 in synchronization with ball-tracking data from the imaging unit 104 or manual input from the official. After every legal delivery, the next LED in the sequence is activated by the microcontroller to light up, for providing an instant visual cue of the ongoing over. The LED (Light Emitting Diode) is a two-lead semiconductor light source also known as p-n junction which produce the lighting when constant voltage is supplied across the diode. When the voltage is supplied across the diode, the electrons recombine with the electrons hole in the diode which result in conversion of electron into photons (which is another form of light) to glow and provide the official with a visual cue of over's status.

[0059] Further, a high-sensitivity microphone 114 integrated into the plate 102, continuously monitor player(s) behavior during the game. The microphone 114 is equipped with advanced audio processing capabilities that allow it to detect verbal exchanges between players, distinguishing between normal communication and potentially inappropriate conduct, such as offensive language, excessive appealing, or unsportsmanlike behavior.

[0060] The microphone 114 receives the player(s) voice and converts the sound energy emitted by the player(s) into electrical energy. Inside the microphone 114, a diaphragm made of plastic is present that moves back and forth when the sound wave hits the diaphragm, which then moves a coil attached to the diaphragm in the same way in order to generate an electrical signal proportional to the sound. The electric signal from coil flows to an amplifier which amplifies the electrical signal. The amplified electrical signal is then sent to the microcontroller linked to the microphone 114.

[0061] The microcontroller processes the audio input using speech recognition and sentiment analysis protocols to identify keywords, tone, and intensity of conversations. Upon detecting inappropriate player behavior, the microcontroller triggers the speaker 105 to generate an audio alert to notify the official in real time, thereby assisting the official in enhancing fair play and maintaining sportsmanship standards on the field.

[0062] Lastly, a battery is installed within the device which is connected to the microcontroller that supplies current to all the electrically powered components that needs an amount of electric power to perform their functions and operation in an efficient manner. The battery utilized here, is generally a dry battery which is made up of Lithium-ion material that gives the device a long-lasting as well as an efficient DC (Direct Current) current which helps every component to function properly in an efficient manner. As the device is battery operated and do not need any electrical voltage for functioning. Hence the presence of battery leads to the portability of the device i.e., user is able to place as well as moves the device from one place to another as per the requirements.

[0063] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the body 101 as disclosed in the invention is developed to be securely worn on the in-ground official’s arm using the elongated plate 102 and circular member 103 with the motorized rollers 202 adjusting the straps 201 for an optimal fit based on pressure detected by the pressure sensors. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 continuously captures images of the official’s position, posture, and surrounding play area, while the ultrasonic sensor and anemometer monitor the cricket ball’s distance, direction, and wind velocity to estimate its trajectory. The speaker 105 provides real-time audible alerts for guiding the official in positioning for safety. Simultaneously, the laser sensors monitor the bowler’s crease to detect overstepping for triggering automatic alert upon detecting no-ball. The RADAR gun 106 tracks the ball’s speed and movement while the imaging unit 104 analyzes the batsman’s foot position relative to the crease to determine the probability of dismissal and communicate the possibility of out decision to the official. Additionally, the compartment 107 integrated with optical sensors assesses the cricket ball’s surface condition with the motorized suction cup 109 rotating the ball for detailed scanning. Accordingly, health score is generated to inform the official whether the ball remains in playable condition.

[0064] In continuation, the dual-layered padding 110 embedded with shock-absorbing springs and Peltier unit ensure protection and temperature regulation for the official’s comfort. The expansion pulley assembly 111 adjusts the member 103 diameter in response to the ball’s trajectory for enhancing safety. The laser measurement sensor calculates the batsman’s height in real-time to determine if no-ball has been bowled based on ball trajectory and batsman height. The imaging unit 104 also monitors the fielding setup, alerting the official in case of rule violations regarding field placement. Distance sensors track the bat and stumps during run-out attempts for notifying the official if run-out occurs. The LEDs 112 sequentially illuminate to provide visual indication of over progress. The gyroscopic sensor ensures the official maintains proper alignment with the stumps and the haptic feedback unit 113 generates haptic feedback if any misalignment is detected. Lastly, the high-sensitivity microphone 114 monitors player behavior for sending alerts to the official upon detecting inappropriate conduct. Thereby assisting in both decision-making and safety enforcement during the game.

[0065] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A decision assistance and safety device for in-ground cricket officials, comprising:

i) a body 101 constructed with an elongated plate 102 integrated with a circular member 103, developed to be worn by a concerned individual officiating in a cricket match over arm portion, wherein a pair of straps 201 are attached with said plate 102 for securing said plate 102 around said arm in order to secure said plate 102 on said in-ground official’s arm portion;
ii) a plurality of pressure sensors installed on said plate 102 and straps 201 for detecting pressure applied by said plate 102 and straps 201 on said arm portion, respectively, wherein based on said detected pressure, an inbuilt microcontroller actuates a pair of motorized rollers 202 integrated within said plate 102 and coiled with said straps 201 for rotating on its axis to properly fit said plate 102 and straps 201 around said user’s arm;
iii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 installed on said plate 102 and integrated with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity of said plate 102, respectively to determine presence of said official on ground surface along with identifying posture of said official;
iv) an ultrasonic sensor integrated on said plate 102 for monitoring parameters including distance and direction of a cricket ball approaching towards said plate 102, wherein an anemometer is installed on said plate 102 for monitoring velocity of wind in surrounding of said plate 102, in accordance to which said microcontroller evaluates a probable trajectory for said ball, based on which said microcontroller actuates a speaker 105 installed on said body 101 to produce audio alerts that guides said official to deploy said body 101 at an optimum position, ensuring safety during play;
v) a plurality of laser sensors installed on said body 101 aimed at bowler’s crease and synced with said imaging unit 104 to monitor bowler’s position, detecting overstepping, wherein upon successful detection, said microcontroller actuates said speaker 105 to alert said official through an audible notification;
vi) a RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) gun 106 embedded on said plate 102 to track ball’s speed and position during a play, wherein said imaging unit 104 monitors batsmen’s foot position relative to batting crease, and said microcontroller analyzes said collected data to estimate a percentage likelihood of said batsman being out or not out, which is communicated to said official through an audible prompt, assisting said official in making informed decisions; and
vii) a plurality of optical sensors integrated with a compartment 107 provided on said plate 102 to analyze surface condition of said cricket ball for wear and tear, wherein a motor 108 with a suction cup 109 is provided with said compartment 107 that rotates said ball and assists said optical sensors in scanning ball’s surface for irregularities, generating a health score based on ball’s condition, which informs official whether said ball is in playable condition.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said body 101 is fabricated with a dual-layered padding 110, an inner layer comprising a soft cushioning and outer layer is composed of impact resistant material, enhancing protection against high-speed impacts, and said padding 110 is integrated with a Peltier unit coupled with a temperature sensor to ensure official’s comfort during play by regulating temperature based on environmental conditions.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein multiple shock-absorbing springs are installed between said two layers, strategically positioned to distribute impact of a high-speed ball and reduce transmitted shock to official’s arm.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an expansion pulley assembly 111 is integrated within said circular member 103 to customize said member’s 103 diameter, depending on official’s position relative to trajectory of approaching ball.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a laser measurement sensor is integrated on said body 101 and synced with said imaging unit 104 to calculate height of batsman in real-time, and said microcontroller utilizes the collected data to detect whether a no-ball is bowled based on ball’s trajectory and height of the batsman, providing an alert to said official via the speaker 105.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said imaging unit 104 monitors the fielding setup, ensuring compliance with rules regarding number of fielders allowed outside the 30-yard circle during and/or power play, and providing an alert to said official if a rule violation is detected.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein distance sensors are installed on said plate 102 to monitor batter’s bat and stumps during a run-out attempt, determining whether bat has crossed crease or whether stumps are broken, and providing an alert to said official if a run-out occurs.

8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein multiple LEDs 112 are positioned along perimeter of said plate 102, each LEDs 112 lights up sequentially to indicate the progress of the over, providing said official with a visual cue of over's status, ensuring correct tracking of overs during game.

9) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a gyroscopic sensor is embedded in said body 101 to monitor orientation of official’s arm and posture, and if orientation deviates from a pre-defined correct position, specifically if umpire is not aligned with stumps, said microcontroller activates a haptic feedback unit 113 integrated with said plate 102 to alert said official to correct their stance.

10) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a high-sensitivity microphone 114 is integrated into said plate 102 to monitor player(s) behavior, and when inappropriate player conduct is detected, an alert is sent to said official via said speaker 105.