In 2026, Salzburg Research presented two key topics at the SALZ—Festival for Technology and Innovation at the Salzburg Exhibition Center.

How can the movements of winter sports participants be measured, analyzed, and optimized with precision? At SALZ—the Festival for Technology and Innovation in Salzburg—Salzburg Research demonstrated how digital technologies and sensor systems from the research group “Human Motion Analytics” are opening up new possibilities in terms of performance, safety, and training. Visitors of the stand could experience innovative research approaches combining motion analysis, sports technology, and data analysis.

We also presented the European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) “Crowd in Motion,” which offers the “Test before Invest” program free of charge for SMEs.

Sensor technology and data analysis for improved flow and enhanced safety

As part of the COMET project “Digital Motion,” Salzburg Research is developing technologies that enable detailed recording and analyses of movement sequences in winter sports. This research project combines sports science, sensor technology, and data analysis in order to improve our understanding of movement patterns and optimize them more efficiently.

Collecting data helps to improve training and technique, reduce risks, and advance equipment development. These applications are designed for elite, youth, and recreational athletes. They also open up new opportunities for health, prevention, and safety research in sports.

Prototypes and research demonstrators at the stand

At the Salzburg Research stand, visitors were able to see a number of current demonstrators and research prototypes:

• Innovative ski prototypes that analyze skiing dynamics and movement patterns,
• the Connected Boot, which measures pressure and movement inside the ski boot,
• a sensor-equipped luge that allows for detailed analysis of forces, speed, and handling,
• a project with the International Ski Federation (FIS) aimed at reducing the risk of accidents in alpine skiing and further improving safety in competitive sports.

The demonstrations showcase the use of integrated sensors and data-driven analysis to enhance sports equipment and training methods.

„Test before Invest“ with the social robot Buddy

Another highlight at the stand was Buddy the social robot, which demonstrates the “Test before Invest” concept of the European Digital Innovation Hub “Crowd in Motion.” This initiative enables companies and organizations to trial digital technologies and AI applications prior to investing in solutions. Buddy brought this concept to life for visitors, demonstrating how innovative technologies can be communicated practically.

Distinguished guests at the stand

The Salzburg Research stand attracted a great deal of interest. Among the guests were Governor Karoline Edtstadler and the State Minister for Social Affairs, Wolfgang Fürweger, who learned about the latest developments in sports technology and motion analysis.

Photos: Salzburg Research; Land Salzburg / Franz Neumayr