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DVC: Real-Time XR Sport Edge – Accelerator Project 2023

Project Info

The Regional Virtual Production Academy (RVPA) has embarked on a groundbreaking journey that not only pushes the boundaries of technology but also underscores the importance of collaborative academic-industry research in shaping the future of education. While community colleges may not traditionally engage in extensive research activities, the unique curriculum and goals of RVPA make this collaborative approach not just important but critical. 

The Real-World Sports Edge Accelerator project gave the RVPA access into a real-world industry driven innovation ecosystem, fostering an environment where ideas can flourish and where academia and industry can learn from each other. The benefits of applied learning through an innovative real-world interdisciplinary approach will prepare the RVPA students for real world challenges in careers driven by technology and innovation.

This ecosystem promotes a culture of continuous learning and growth. In essence, RVPA’s commitment to collaborative academic-industry research not only enhances the quality of education but also positions the academy as a leader in innovative, forward-thinking approaches to learning. As RVPA continues to break new ground in the world of XR sports and technology, it serves as a testament to the transformative power of such partnerships and the potential for community colleges to play a significant role in shaping the future of education and industry alike.

Led by the visionary Kevin Leeper and his dedicated internship team Justin Mead and Azimuth Wright, the RVPA worked in parallel with several prestigious institutions, including College London, Trinity College Dublin, Prima Terra Labs, BT, Outernet Global, Vodafone Group, University of Southampton, DAZN, and Bowie State University, to bring the Real-Time XR Sport Edge project to life.

At the heart of this remarkable endeavor lies a dedication to research, and it’s evident in every facet of the project’s achievements. In particular, it focused on the electrifying world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and leveraged the power of real-time capture to bring this high-speed sport to audiences like never before. One of the standout features of the project is the low-latency content delivery system, which relies on the latest in edge computing technologies. This ensures that viewers experience minimal delays and enjoy a seamless and immersive XR sports experience.

But perhaps the most exciting aspect of the project is the creation of virtual avatars of real-world athletes, which are then enhanced with jaw-dropping visual effects (VFX). This not only adds a layer of excitement to the sport but also immerses viewers in the action as if they were right there in the ring. The team also spared no expense in creating high-quality, photorealistic graphics set within immersive virtual environments. This attention to detail has elevated the XR sports experience to new heights, providing audiences with an unparalleled level of realism.

Accessibility was also a top priority for the team. Audiences can engage and spectate from virtually anywhere using a range of devices, including VR headsets, mobile devices, computers, and even at an outdoor Location-Based Experience (LBE) venue at The Outernet in London. In a nod to the future, the project incorporated interoperable talent identification (ID) labeling. This innovative feature streamlines verification and automation processes, setting the stage for even more groundbreaking advancements.

The project builds on the success of the award-winning 2021 Accelerator project that explored 5G location-based XR. In 2023, this revival of the Accelerator project pushes the boundaries of interactive digital athletes, motion capture, artificial intelligence (AI), and high-speed edge content delivery. The aim? To deliver live XR sports workflows for virtual 3D worlds and explore their integration into over-the-top (OTT) platforms.

RVPA’s pivotal role in this project reflects its commitment to research and student excellence. This project serves as a testament to the capabilities of RVPA’s students, who have not only embraced innovation but have excelled in pushing the boundaries of technology. It’s clear that the future of sports entertainment is taking an exciting new direction. Watch this space for more developments in this exhilarating journey of innovation and discovery.At the heart of this remarkable endeavor lies a commitment to research, and it’s evident in every facet of the project’s achievements.

IBC Website

Artist(s) Name​

  • Kevin Leeper
  • Justin Mead
  • Azimuth Wright 

Project Objectives

  • Real-time capture of high-speed XR sports (Mixed Martial Arts) with 2 or more athletes and participants 
  • Low-to-no latency delivery via edge technologies 
  • Creating and using virtual avatars of real-world athletes, that can be augmented with VFX  
  • High-quality, photorealistic graphics in immersive environments 
  • Audiences in virtual 3D worlds can view on multiple devices (VR headset, mobile, computer) 
  • Audiences will participate and spectate on multiple devices (VR headset, mobile, computer, LBE venue) 
  • Interoperable Talent ID labeling for Provenance Verification & Automation