Sweeping effects on curling and friction estimation

Abstract Precisely estimating and controlling the friction of a stone on ice is one of the abilities that is essential for good curling players. We propose here a new, simple, and player-friendly method for measuring friction using only stopwatches. As for friction control, it is known that friction must be modified by sweeping using brushes. It is widely performed not only to extend the stopping range of the stone but also to control the curls, although there is little scientific evidence to support the curl-controlling effects. We conducted a measurement to examine the effects, and we propose a potential method for assisting players to try similar kinds of quantitative studies themselves. The results we obtained suggest positive effects of the left–right asymmetric sweeping with 95% reliability for sweeping on the opposite half-side to assist curling.