mondo | stadia - Issue 15

LEVI’S STADIUM

PHILIPS STADION

AMNON HARMAN

VIDEO & VISUALS FOCUS

San Francisco 49ers and Foxconn Industrial Internet launch the world’s first in-stadium 8K video ecosystem.

PSV Eindhoven install Signify’s UV-C disinfection lighting at stadium and training centre to tackle COVID-19.

d&b audiotechnik’s CEO discusses Fanblock - the technology delivering realistic crowd noise to empty venues.

We showcase eye-catching projects and state-of-the-art products from the world of video and visual technology.

ISSUE 15 - DECEMBER | JANUARY 2020/21

THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION FOR TECHNOLOGY IN SPORTING VENUES

ISSUE 15 - DECEMBER | JANUARY 2020/21 WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

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15 WELCOME

SSUE 15 brings the year to a close - and it’s safe to say that 2020 has been one of the most challenging the industry has experienced. Looking back to the start of the year, our AGORA conference in February seems a distant memory considering the events since, however, with the launch of AGORA Online in February 2021, we hope that it’s the start of something special as fans begin to return to sporting venues. There will be further updates coming soon - keep an eye on www.mondostadia-agora.com.

While it’s definitely been a turbulent time for everyone, this year has also seen plenty of creativity, ingenuity and determination - and there’s no better example of that than the 2020 NBA Bubble. We’ve taken a closer look at the huge effort that went into the NBA restart - particularly the array of state-of-the-art technology that helped deliver the groundbreaking project and make it a resounding success.

Elsewhere, we spoke to Amnon Harman, CEO of d&b audiotechnik, about Fanblock - a game-changing technology that brings the much-needed atmosphere back into sports stadiums. Definitely one to check out.

We’ve also covered the world’s first in-stadium 8K video ecosystem at Levi’s Stadium. After a year of collaboration and testing between San Francisco 49ers and Foxconn Industrial Internet, the new system is ready and taken the forward-thinking venue to another level once again.

There’s plenty of other features on different projects and products for you to read over the festive period, too.

Have a great Christmas and New Year - we hope to see you all in 2021!

I

Sam Hughes Editor

23 - 25 FEBRUARY 2021 | WWW.MONDOSTADIA-AGORA.COM

15 INSIDE…

Cover image: Courtesy of MA Lighting Editor Sam Hughes s.hughes@mondiale.co.uk

Assistant Editor Emma Davidson e.davidson@mondiale.co.uk

Digital Editorial Assistant James Robertson j.robertson@mondiale.co.uk

Senior Account Manager Jamie Dixon j.dixon@mondiale.co.uk

Account Manager Laura Iles l.iles@mondiale.co.uk

Contributors Taruka Srivastrava Design & Production Dan Seaton d.seaton@mondiale.co.uk

Dave Bell d.bell@mondiale.co.uk

CEO Justin Gawne j.gawne@mondiale.co.uk

Finance Director Amanda Giles

TEAM TALK 006 WFS LIVE

ar@mondiale.co.uk

Group Chairman Damian Walsh MONDO | STADIA is published by Mondiale Media Limited, Strawberry Studios, Watson Square, Stockport, SK1 3AZ, UK Tel: +44 161 476 8340 Printed By Buxton Press WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

LIGHTING

064 Philips Stadion | Eindhoven, Netherlands

a.giles@mondiale.co.uk

Credit Control

VENUE FOCUS

068 Batumi Stadium | Batumi, Georgia

DRAWING BOARD

074 Adams Park | Wycombe, England

008 Sportpark de Braak | Helmond, Netherlands

AUDIO

010 Dalian Stadium | Dalian, China

076 Viejas Arena | San Diego, USA SEATING 080 El Sadar Stadium | Pamplona, Spain

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VIDEO

012 Video & Visuals

084 Milan Puskar Center | West Virginia, USA ESPORTS 086 League of Legends | Shanghai, China

INTERVIEW 026 Amnon Harman | d&b audiotechnik 034 Tom Vecsernyes | Seyu

EXTRA TIME 092 Christie 093 IA Stage

THE FULL PITCH

094 Venue Tech Directory

042 2020 NBA Bubble | Orlando, USA

096 Event Diary

054 Levi’s Stadium | San Francisco, USA

098 Full Time | Michael Short, Midstream Lighting

TEAM TALK

The success of World Football Summit’s online event confirms it as football’s most global business gathering.

Images: World Football Summit

he second edition of WFS LIVE

federations and sponsoring brands together for

107 countries made 7,000 contacts and shared

came to an end on November

the first time to reflect on the need to build a

over 15,000 messages.

27 with a unique Q&A session

more purpose-driven industry, kicking-off a

WFS LIVE was largely echoed by the media.

that saw FIFA Secretary General,

ground-breaking discussion that will be built

Over 700 news items were published in more

Fatma Samoura, reflect on her journey since

upon in future events and that will hopefully

than 50 different countries, reaching an

becoming the first woman ever to be appointed

lead to a brighter and more sustainable future

audience of over 3,400,000,000 worldwide.

Secretary General of FIFA and share insight

for all the stakeholders.

Among the speakers to make the global

into how football’s governing body is leading

The first day of WFS LIVE was entirely devoted

headlines at WFS LIVE were La Liga President,

the industry’s global response to the COVID-19

to re-imagining ‘the football we want, the

Javier Tebas, who discussed his plans to

pandemic.

game we need’, and saw leaders share their

reopen La Liga stadiums; Samuel Eto’o, on

The inspiring conversation between Fatma

views on how to embed purpose in the fabric

the future of Lionel Messi and FC Barcelona;

Samoura and prestigious sports broadcaster,

of the industry, addressing increasingly

and super-agents Jonathan Barnett and Mino

Carol Tshabalala, brought the curtain down

relevant topics, such as gender equality

Raiola, with their strong response to FIFA’s

on an event that once again proved to be

and diversity, global citizenship and athlete

plans to regulate their business.

football’s most global business gathering.

activism.

The WFS LIVE App and all its networking

WFS LIVE provided first-hand insight into

Overall, 150 top-notch industry leaders took

features will remain available until December

crucial topics affecting the industry, such

the virtual stage in 50 conference sessions,

31st for those who still want to make new

as when, where and how will fans return to

each of which gathered hundreds of attendees

connections or arrange meetings. Videos of the

stadiums, what monetisation strategies are

on the WFS LIVE App and also via LIVENow,

full panels will be posted on the WFS YouTube

being developed to make up for the downfalls,

the on-demand streaming platform which

channel on January 1 2021.

and what challenges and opportunities await

aired the summit for the first time.

in the post-pandemic era.

As in all WFS events, panels were the starting

Furthermore, with thanks to World Football

points of the discussions, with conversations

Summit’s partnership with Common Goal,

continuing across the different networking

WFS LIVE brought players, clubs, leagues,

features of our App. The 2,134 attendees from

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www.live.worldfootballsummit.com

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DRAWING BOARD

SPORTPARK DE BRAAK Helmond, Netherlands Renderings: MoederscheimMoonen Architects

he municipality council of Helmond in The Netherlands has given the green light for the Campus de Braak project. The plans for the project were put on hold at the beginning of this year after a difference of opinion with the professional soccer club, Helmond Sport, about the programme of requirements, the design and the business case.

MoederscheimMoonen Architects, FaulknerBrowns and CULD were asked to team up to create a design tailored to the new brief. Now that the city council also supports the renewed plan, the project can restart.

In the design, the number of seats has been reduced to 3,600, which creates more space for Helmond Sport’s business areas. Additional space has also been created for the youth academy of the soccer club. With the collaboration of the municipality of Helmond, the OMO school group and the other users, a new design has been developed which is centred around multi-functionality.

In addition, the exterior has also been developed. Despite the fact

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that there are now only two large stands, the campus exudes a ‘stadium feeling’ through the dynamic verticality of the façades. In the case of expansion in the future, two new stands can be added in the current building envelope.

Multi-functionality is the essence of the new campus. The campus will be home to Helmond Sport and the Helmond Practice School.

The design includes a NOC * NSF sports hall where the amateur football clubs, Helmondia and Mulo will be accommodated.

Additionally, a new location for JvdI De Fysioclub will be created.

Space for individual sports and relaxation is also incorporated with the addition of a running track and shared path for pedestrians and cyclists.

The new building is surrounded by a central corridor that connects all entryways with each other and the surrounding neighbourhoods.

Thanks to the connection between the campus and the surrounding area, Campus de Braak will become an accessible meeting and recreational environment for the entire city.

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DALIAN STADIUM Dalian, China Renderings: Pattern Design

he new Dalian stadium is located on an incredible site situated on the waterfront of Suoyu Bay, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, a major city and seaport in the south of Liaoning Province, North-East China. The stadium will be part of a wider redevelopment for Ganjingzi called ‘City Marina Park’, a process that will include extending the metro line and the construction of an under-sea tunnel which will connect the new development to Central Dalian.

The 26.5-hectare site is comprised of reclaimed and industrial land, situated right on the waterfront. This unique location was instrumental in inspiring the design concept developed

by Pattern. Envisaged as coloured ETFE, the façade produces a shimmering light, a quality that evokes sunlight reflecting on the ocean and seashells on the adjacent beaches. The form of the building suggests three shell-like structures appearing to float and twist within each other. At night, the stadium is a spectacle of light, with the illumination reflecting off the sweeping building and the ocean beyond.

The stadium includes a community sports park featuring outdoor training pitches that support the club’s youth academy, cycle routes, and a running track that spirals up the stadium. These features will make the stadium a major public destination and tourist area on the waterfront.

The incredible waterfront setting has inspired the proposal of

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a unique 1.6km walking and running route up the façade, akin to the Top Wonder at the Birds Nest Stadium, but on a larger scale with public space and amenities at the summit. As a result, visitors, on their way to the top, will be able to enjoy a wonderous spiral walking route where they can take in Suoyu Bay, Dalian City and the Dading, Jianzi and Baiyun Mountains. At the summit, visitors can relax, relish the views and visit the café.

The venue is designed for Asia’s most prestigious football event in the AFC Asian Cup. Dalian is one of 10 host cities set to share the event, alongside Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, Chongqing, Chengdu, Xi’an, Qingdao, Xiamen and Suzhou. In legacy, the stadium will be potentially home to Dalian Pro FC who play in the top-tier of Chinese football, the Chinese Super League.

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KICK OFF | VIDEO & VISUALS A closer look at products and projects from the video and visuals world.

GAZPROM ARENA DALLMEIER Since its completion in 2017, the Gazprom Arena has served as the home ground stadium for the Russian football club, Zenit St. Petersburg. And as one of the host stadiums for the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 Euro Football Championship, the Gazprom Arena must also satisfy the strict security regulations of FIFA, UEFA and ESSMA. When selecting the video security system, the managers responsible at Zenit therefore opted for a solution from the German manufacturer, Dallmeier. With its patented Panomera multifocal-sensor system, Dallmeier guarantees the security of many stadiums all over the world.

The objective was providing coverage with video security technology for the entire area surrounding the stadium, the entrance gate approaches, the rooms below grand stands, and the grand stands themselves in one of the largest video security projects ever undertaken in a football stadium. Under enormous time pressure, a high-performance system had to be implemented in the stadium with a capacity of 60,000 fans, and yet had to remain adaptable and flexible in response to changing customer wishes as the project progressed.

One requirement, which from time to time presented the greatest challenge, was capturing all areas of all the grandstands all of the time, so that identification of offenders could be assured in all circumstances. In order to achieve this, the Russian Interior Ministry stipulated two key requirements for the video security system: Firstly, it must capture the entire grandstand area with a ‘minimum resolution density’ of 250 pixels per metre (px/m). This also corresponds to the performance criterion defined in the globally valid standard DIN EN 62676-4 for video security systems for purposes of enabling identification of an unknown person. And secondly, the image frequency must not fall below a frame rate of 25 frames per second (fps).

A Dallmeier video security system has already been operating in the Petrovsky Stadium since 2012, and after a thorough evaluation of all the solutions, the operators decided to install a stadium solution from Dallmeier in the Gazprom Arena as well.

Compared with conventional camera technologies, such as megapixel or PTZ cameras, the patented Panomera multifocalsensor system from Dallmeier can guarantee coverage of even the largest expanses with the stipulated minimum resolution density and frame rate. And Panomera systems continuously capture everything that is happening in full resolution and allow high-resolution zooms - both live and in the recording and by several operators at the same time. This enables stadium operators to track and reconstruct relevant occurrences in detail both live and after the fact.

Another decisive advantage of the Dallmeier stadium solution was the innovative 3D planning approach, with which a digital reproduction of the Gazprom Arena was created. This makes it very easy to fulfil the requirement according to which at least 250 px/m must be assured literally ‘in every last corner’: colour coding in the 3D simulation makes it possible to see exactly where the value has been reached and where a correction should be made, perhaps by setting up in a another position or using a different camera model. A further major advantage of this planning approach is the extreme efficiency of the solution: For example, Zenit St. Petersburg is able to provide security on the 012

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terraces throughout the Gazprom Arena with way less than 100 Panomera camera systems, covering all areas with at least 250 px/m and 25 fps.

Another benefit of Dallmeier’s 3D planning programme is the automatic generation of ‘CamCards’ - exact configuration documents for every single camera. Armed with this information, installers on site know exactly which camera must be mounted where, how high and at what angle. The big advantage besides the immense amount of time saved consists in the planning reliability: it can be predicted with great accuracy how much labour the installation of the total solution with entail, because this approach minimises uncertainty factors.

Thanks to Dallmeier’s unwavering assistance throughout the project, testing by the state technical personnel in Russia was also successful in the subsequent project phases, with the result that the stadium operators were able to begin operating the video security system after final project commissioning in good time for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. www.dallmeier.com www.panomera.com

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SIGNAL IDUNA PARK CREATELED Signal Iduna Park, the largest stadium in Germany and home of Borussia Dortmund, is widely known for its impressive atmosphere and attendance figures.

The stadium adopts the most advanced AirSPORT-10 display system from CreateLED, which meets the technical requirements of FIFA and UEFA. The tilted angle of the cabinets can be adjusted according to different requirements to ensure the best viewing angle for both the audience and cameras. At the same time, the product provides a 160º ultra-wide vertical angle of view to ensure that the camera can capture the real-time picture without any shift in colour. The protection level of IP65 (front and rear), fast signal transmission, ultra-wide viewing angles can meet the photographer’s demand on the high-quality video shooting, and the high refresh rate can ensure that both the onsite audience and the audience watching live channels enjoy the bright, vivid pictures and videos equally. The dual power backup system ensures the uninterrupted operation of the with no failure, as well as real, high-definition video recording.

CreateLED has also officially released the new overturning technology for sports broadcasting this year, Augmented Reality

(AR). For conventional football games, audiences can only watch the commercials via the on-site LED parameters, no matter where they may be sitting. With the help of this brand-new technology, people are now able to watch different commercials in different languages, depending on countries or regions during the match. Leagues and clubs can now offer tailored, sophisticated sponsorship packages to their commercial partners based on the area both parties would like their advertisement to be. Sponsors and advertisers can now target specific audiences across the globe with tailored messaging - for example, in local language or with specific regional product messages. www.createled.com

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CZECH REPUBLIC NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM GOAL SPORT Due to the pandemic, restrictions meant that all matches of the 2020 UEFA Nations League were played without the presence of spectators. In an effort to get the fans back to the stadiums, the Czech Republic national football team started a campaign to engage its supporters in an innovative way. The motto of the campaign was #represtart, a mashup of the words ‘repre’, which is an abbreviation of the Czech Football Team, and ‘restart’, which refers to returning to the field after almost a year.

A marketing campaign was released through TV ads, online ads and street billboards around the country with a message inviting fans to send videos of themselves cheering on the national team.

These videos were displayed on the front row of LED perimeter screens around the pitch and the players were able to see fan reactions. In addition to this, fans also had their moments of fame on the TV, as the fans’ videos were presented along with the images of the match during the TV broadcasting.

For all who wanted to shoot their videos for the campaign, there were proposed themes based on the key moments in the match.

Before the match, videos of healthcare workers were played, and minute of applause was given for their hard work during the coronavirus pandemic.

The other typical scene at the beginning of a match is the national anthem. In this moment, fans could be seen singing along. The liveliest scene, for sure, is the goal celebration. For this particular moment fans were invited to record their own celebrations. During the matches these videos were triggered just after Czech Republic scored, creating an amazing atmosphere on the field.

This phase of the campaign was executed in the match against Scotland on September 7. For further games against Israel

and Slovakia in November, the level of excitement was raised even more. At that time fans had the opportunity to make live appearances on the perimeter screens during the matches.

For this case, Goal Sport Technology and Fair Play Vision (the technology providers), had to come up with a solution that could overlay the current screen feed with live videos. It made it possible to precisely control and filter the content presented on the screen.

This phase also relied on a moderator in charge of the interaction with the participants of the video conference room. He could warm them up and set the mood that the fans get live on the screens.

Iveta Vondrová, Director of the National Team, commented on the results of the campaign: “The main intention was clear - to get the fans to the stadium. At the same time, we managed to come up with the liveliest, most interesting and also the most entertaining form to do so. Such a solution is unique in the Czech Republic, and it achieved a high level of engagement with fans, and a strong awareness for the progress of the National Team during the competition.”

Goal Sport Technology and Fair Play Vision are the team behind the technology concept and development. The technology presented in the project is available for the market in different modules and can be branded specifically for clubs and sponsors. www.goalsport.software www.fairplayvision.eu

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EASTERN MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY HITACHI At Eastern Michigan University (EMU) in Ypsilanti, Michigan, the Department of Athletics is relentlessly committed to providing great experiences for both fans and student-athletes, while building champions in the classroom, in the community, and in competition. When the university upgraded its football venue with a massive new scoreboard in 2019, it purchased four Z HD5000 HDTV cameras from (Hitachi Kokusai) to enhance fan engagement, while meeting the challenge of shooting highquality video on the stadium’s distinctive playing surface.

The centerpiece of the technology refresh at the 30,200-seat Rynearson Stadium is a new 53 ft high by 29 ft wide Daktronics LED video display screen. The second-largest video board in the NCAA Division I Mid-American Conference (MAC), the new scoreboard is more than three times larger than the venue’s previous, resolution-limited screen. The display overhaul was accompanied by control room and camera upgrades as EMU Athletics began producing in-venue football programming for the first time.

“With the old video board, we just took an analog signal from the broadcast feed, and cut in occasional footage from older cameras,” said Greg Steiner, Associate Athletic Director, Media Relations at EMU. “We needed to enhance the in-venue experience, as when fans come into the stadium and watch our video board, their expectations have been set by what they see on television. We strive to provide unique on-site opportunities that fans can’t get at home, while also delivering what they already expect to see from TV.” Supplied by systems integrator AVI-SPL, three of the Hitachi cameras are deployed in fixed positions on tripods. The fourth Z-HD5000 is equipped with a Teradek wireless transmitter, enabling the camera operator to go into the stands and roam the venue.

Greg noted that the Hitachi cameras do an exceptional job capturing games in EMU’s unusual football environment. “We’re 016

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one of only three FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision) schools that don’t play on a green field, and the only grey field at the Division I level,” he explained. “Getting a good picture against it can be tough with other cameras. Grey can get washed out really fast if you don’t have high-quality cameras and the ability to dial in directly to the true colors. The Z-HD5000s handle it very well.”

The newly-acquired cameras are EMU’s second Z-HD5000 purchase, joining four units acquired in 2013 - and still going strong - that are dedicated to the university’s 8,000-seat Convocation Center. Together, the new and earlier Hitachi cameras also provide valuable, hands-on video production experience for students in the school’s Communication, Media & Theater Arts (CMTA) department. “We have higher-end equipment in Athletics than they may use in their own courses,” said Greg. “Working on our productions lets them earn internship credit while getting experience on broadcast-class equipment that they may eventually use professionally.”

EMU has been very satisfied with the visual quality provided by the Z-HD5000 cameras. “You know what you’re going to get every time you turn them on - great clarity, accurate colour reproduction, and the ability to dial them in from the control room exactly as you need,” praised Greg.

Beyond the technical benefits of the cameras, Greg lauds the possibilities they have enabled for the school and its students.

“I cannot say enough great things about the opportunity that working with Hitachi cameras has presented us as a university and as an athletic department,” he said. “Hitachi Kokusai has been a great partner throughout the process to deliver exactly what we needed in terms of video.” www.hitachikokusai.com

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GRIFFYN 4K32-RGB CHRISTIE As we seek to return to stadia and arenas post-pandemic, owners and operators will be looking to maximise the in-person fan experience that supporters have been missing. Embracing advanced audiovisual technology is one of the key ways to increase engagement, and Christie’s range of hardware, software and system design services offer a combination of benefits that add up to a complete offering, whether for video processing, media playback and video walls or projection mapping powering the ultimate fan experience.

Display products are at the core of what Christie does, and the Griffyn 4K32-RGB pure laser projector is the latest product to combine Christie’s electronics and proprietary RGB laser illumination to produce market-leading performance. At 34,000 lumens, and a mere 46dBA at full brightness, it is also the first projector to offer new TruLife+ electronics for enhanced connectivity, eliminating the hassle of removable input cards and digital convergence for easy picture-perfect alignment via remote control. This highly advanced all-in-one projector is ideal for all types of large venue applications, including stadia and arenas. Griffyn’s compact chassis and ability to operate in any orientation make it easy to position the projector exactly where it needs to be. It provides an exceptionally wide colour gamut, achieving greater than 96% of the Rec. 2020 colour space for richer, more vibrant colours, and a more memorable audience experience.

Sports venues often feature complex and technically challenging display systems that require intricate setup and maintenance regimes. Christie Mystique - camera-based alignment and recalibration software - simplifies this process by automating many of the time-consuming aspects of setting up and maintaining multi-faceted projection systems. Working in conjunction with Christie Twist software (embedded in all Christie 3DLP projectors, including Griffyn), or with Christie Pandoras Box, Mystique automates the warping and blending of an unlimited number of projectors for large-scale

projects, including playing surface projection mapping. It completes the process in minutes, without the need to have a highly skilled projectionist on site. And with Christie’s new Conductor software, it is possible to monitor and control up to 256 Christie 3DLP projectors on the same network from a laptop, including remote on/off operation, simultaneous firmware upgrades of multiple projectors, status monitoring and more.

Fan engagement was top of mind for Monumental Sports & Entertainment at Capital One Arena as two of its teams, the Washington Wizards and Washington Capitals, headed towards important playoff games.

Monumental engaged Quince Imaging to create the ultimate fan experience, and using Christie technology, installed a dual-sport projection system that rallied fans and teams alike with a stunning projection mapping show, all the way through to a Stanley Cup championship for the Capitals. The fully integrated system featured 12 Christie 4K 30,000-lumen projectors, Pandoras Box for media playback, Widget Designer to create custom, easyto-use interfaces for multi-sport show control, Mystique for automated camera-based alignment and Terra SDVoE technology to transmit 4K without compression.

The system had to be dual-sport - capable to projection map on ice for the Capitals and on the hardwood court for the Wizards - and adjust to the different size of each surface. It also had to be turnkey and include the projection technology, content and 3D visuals. With just a couple of weeks’ notice, and only one day on site to set up, Quince cites the Christie technology for the quick turnaround. “The one key thing that helps us meet these deadlines consistently is having Christie products: We know how they work. We know we can rely on them to deliver what we expect - that’s why we use them,” said CJ Davis, Creative Director, Quince Imaging. www.christiedigital.com WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

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PAN AMERICAN GAMES GLOSHINE Gloshine is known for its quality in large-scale, live broadcast events, with more than 5,000 sq metres of its Legend Series delivered to the European and American markets.

In August 2019, Lima ushered in the largest sporting event in the Americas - the 18th Pan American Games. 1,890 athletes and 925 official technicians from 33 countries in the Americas participated in the competition, and Gloshine’s Legend Series LED displays were deployed to complete the sporting solution. The Legend Series allowed the games to be shown in real-time, showing the HD visual effects of high-definition sports for 175,000 foreign tourists.

The Legend Series is famous for its fineness and multifunctionality. The modules can be universally interchanged, and the cabinets are available in 500 x 500mm and 500 x 1000mm. The use of high brightness LEDs allows for higher colour contrast and image definition. 3840Hz refresh rate still shows smooth and clear video images under a HD camera. The Legend Series’ stable characteristics can also meet the needs of all large events, as it supports transport dolly, enabling rapid transportation and installation, and is widely used indoor and outdoor.

Gloshine’s high-leveled LED display has appeared in major sports arenas in recent years. After international events such as the 2016 Brazil Olympic Games, The 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, and the 2018 World Cup, Gloshine LED display’s high-definition showcases the athletics of American athletes, bringing wonderful sports culture viewing effects to spectators across the world. www.gloshine.com

MATMUT STADIUM EXTERITY In 2020, the coronavirus pandemic saw major sporting events postponed or cancelled, including the Olympics and Wimbledon. The majority of professional leagues have only recently been allowed to return to play, but seasons are predominantly being played behind closed doors. However, many leagues and teams are hoping that the start of 2021 will signify the return of fans to stadiums and venues, and IP-based technologies, such as digital signage and IPTV, will play a critical role in helping keep fans safe on match day.

Traditionally, IP based technologies have been used to welcome fans to stadiums, stream live match footage around the venue, and drive additional revenue by providing visitors with information and special offers on merchandise, bar and restaurant promotions. An example of the value of digital signage in a stadium environment is at the Matmut Stadium, which is home to Lou Rugby. Exterity’s digital signage solution, ArtioSign was deployed, which is used in the LOU Shop and throughout the stadium, including the VIP lounges and event halls. Via ArtioSign, LOU Rugby offers interactive information and promotion about new merchandise, upcoming games and other events, as well as the local weather forecast and public transport timetables.

Stadiums that have employed digital signage technologies, like Matmut, will be leading the way in demonstrating its added value and ability to adapt to meet the new situation. When fans do return to stadiums, they can expect to see signage screens frequently updated with clear safety messages, information about catering areas, toilets and other shared facilities requiring restrictions in numbers, as well as signposting of one-way systems and exits. Exterity has recently added new features to its ArtioSign solution to better engage fans in a stadium environment: ‘Moments of Exclusivity’

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(MoE) is a feature which enables stadium operators to display eye-catching, time-limited messages on selected screens, which then go back to showing their assigned content. MoE is designed to share special moments with the fans, like a goal, in real-time, but its use could easily be expanded to flash up important messages that grab visitors’ attention, such as reminding them about mask-wearing, social distancing or changes to concourse flow direction. www.exterity.com

OVER 30 YEARS OF RIGGING , INDUSTR IAL DESIGN, AND ENGINEE RING SERVICE S. FOR OVER 30 YEARS IA STAGE HAS UTILIZED THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF ENGINEERING AND RIGGING SAFETY TO HELP VENUE OWNERS CREATE INCREDIBLY SAFE AND SPECTACULAR ENVIRONMENTS FOR THEIR AUDIENCES AND STAFF. WHETHER IT’S OUR ARENA SPANNING SKYDECK™ MODULAR TENSION WIRE GRID, OUR OVERHEAD SKYDOTS™ LED LIGHTING SYSTEM, OR ANY OF OUR DESIGN AND ENGINEERING SERVICES, WE KEEP -

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YES TECH MG7S P3.9 Pro and MG5 P5.9 outdoor LED screens were installed at one side of the stadium, with a total area of 285 sq metres. The content of the LED screens can be changed at any time to support the game. It can also display the team name and real-time score, as well as offering a colourful background for taking photos and videos.

The MG7S Series is for outdoor rental, with high refresh, brightness and contrast IC, and excellent control technology, keeping images stable and real. It meets the needs of action shot at the stadium and avoids flicker. When playing the high-speed motion picture, the display will be clearer and more delicate, without dragging.

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The optical fibre transmission system can effectively reduce the signal delay caused by the long transmission distance and ensure the consistency of the display content. Because of its characteristics of high-brush, brightness and contrast, when used in outdoor sports venues, it still has a clear picture under direct sunlight. It is stable and reliable for outdoor applications due to the IP65 protection level.

YES TECH stadium LED screen solutions can also achieve realtime score display, player information, high-definition slowmotion playback, on-site highlights, and other video playing requirements. www.yes-led.com

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VX, RX AND RENDERSTREAM DISGUISE disguise’s latest software release, 17.4 combined with its new RenderStream software, rx and vx hardware bundle creates the complete solution for hosting real-time content from render engines, Unreal Engine and Notch. A proven leader in xR workflows for experience creation, disguise designed the vx, rx and RenderStream bundle as a complete toolset for delivering real-time content into unique physical spaces. Be it a stage, a set, studio or stadium, rx and RenderStream support a robust and integrated delivery platform for managing complex setups.

RenderStream is a proprietary video-over-IP protocol that synchronises and transfers content between render engines and final composition machines.

It provides low latency, uncompressed video transfer and sends control metadata to sync camera tracking between disguise and the render engine, in addition to providing parameter control from disguise to the render engine. This new approach to the technology stack allows disguise to move towards a scale-out rendering approach.

With r17.4, RenderStream users can access advanced DX12 features in Unreal such as Ray Tracing to create best-in-class photorealistic content capturing accurate reflections, refractions and shadows.

By offboarding render engines, the user can scale hardware to handle multicamera setups, complex content design, and even multiple engines working together in the same scene. More render engines can be added with more rx boxes to expand the ecosystem as the technology develops. www.disguise.one

DIGIBOARD ADI 2021 will see sports LED specialists, ADI, launch a brand new range of digiBOARD digital perimeter products into UK and European markets.

With a market-share well in excess of 50%, ADI’s digiBOARD is firmly established as the market-leader in the UK market, whilst they have an ever-increasing foothold in the Bundesliga. The new 2021 range has been re-engineered completely from the ground up, encompassing everything the company have learnt from 25 years of stadium LED projects and over 15 as a manufacturer.

ADI CEO, Geraint Williams, explained: “Unlike many of our competitors in the market, ADI aren’t just installers and operators. We design, engineer and manufacture all of our products, from the structures, tiles and software all the way down to the bespoke LED packets that allow us to offer the world’s highest resolution virtual replacement digital perimeter boards.”

It means the 2021 range isn’t just full of market-leading specs (high resolution, UEFA compliancy, wide angle custom LEDs), but also features that provide real-world efficiencies, simplified operation and increased reliability.

Based around an open-frame with hot-swappable tiles, ADI have slashed the number of connectors within a system by over 70%, minimising potential weak points and making maintenance a breeze. Plus, the new design has enabled a significant reduction in weight, making systems far easier to move, should the need arise.

A key part of ADI’s domestic digiBOARD dominance has been its ability to create products and business models that have put digital perimeter within the reach of clubs outside of the Premier League. The 2021 range only serves to build on this with options for all customer requirements.

Geraint explained the thinking: “We’ve looked at the requirements of all of our customers and focussed on developing different range and feature sets that will cater to different needs. At the top end, with the ever-increasing move to UHD broadcast, the markets demand higher resolution, UEFA compliant boards. Newer stadiums are able to accommodate taller systems

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and there’s still growing demand for systems that are capable of harnessing Supponor’s virtual technology to drive value from global partnerships.

“At the other end of the market, increasing televised exposure is driving demand at smaller clubs, however, older venues tend to require a lower height solution and flexibility to promote their rights holders in a different way to the sold-by-the-minute major televised model. Additionally, they require a product they can operate themselves, provides great value for money and ideally from a company they can trust with a proven track record.

“Our new product line-up provides benefits and value for clubs at all levels, but when combined with our in-house production and operational support, it means that we are able to offer a complete level of service that’s difficult to compete with.” www.adi.tv

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15 INTERVIEW

“Fanblock is a game-changer for viewers, players, clubs, federations and broadcasters as we bring the much-needed intense atmosphere and emotion back into sports stadiums or indoor events.”

“We have over 170 sporting events behind us in the short period of 24 months, including seven world events, and they were all close to our hearts.”

Amnon Harman CEO d&b audiotechnik

Tom Vecsernyes Founder & CEO Seyu

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INTERVIEW

AMNON HARMAN CEO, d&b audiotechnik

It’s been a difficult year for the sporting venue

Can you give us some insight into the system and

industry and beyond, how has it been for d&b

how it works in stadiums?

audiotechnik?

d&b Fanblock - powered by Autograph Stadium

It has been an extremely difficult year for everyone.

Sound - delivers a real-time, custom sound solution

No matter what industry you operate in, the pandemic

to sports venues with a reduced number of fans or

has affected you. For d&b, this year has presented a

no fans at all. d&b Fanblock creates a multi-channel,

series of challenges that have changed on a weekly

surround-sound system, which, when combined

and sometimes even daily basis. Today’s challenges

with Autograph’s cutting-edge crowd atmosphere

will affect how we operate our business for years to

compositions, means stadiums are once again filled

come - not just how we sell, but how we procure,

with the much-missed sound of fans! Custom sound

manufacture, supply, support and sustain the

design packages offers club-specific chants - made

workforce. I am extremely proud of the entire d&b

possible through Autograph’s content partner,

team and how they have handled what 2020 has

FanChants. As the system is operated live by engineers

thrown at them. Together, we enter the new year

in the stadium, it can follow the energy levels and

with a new perspective, drive and some exciting new

punctuate the dramatic moments of the game as

technologies.

they happen - from cheering and booing, through to singing and chanting.

You’ve recently launched d&b Fanblock - when did you start working on this concept?

You’ve partnered with Autograph Sound on the

The initial concept of Fanblock came about a few

project, how did that come about and what has it

months ago when we saw the effect the pandemic

been like working with them?

was having on the sporting industry. During the first

d&b has a long history of stadium and arena work and

few months of the pandemic, sporting events saw

we are keen to find technologies and ideas that unite

their television viewer numbers drop significantly as

the live entertainment and sports events industry. One

players and fans alike felt the psychological effects of

way d&b is doing this is by collaborating with new and

silent stadiums. At d&b, we knew we had the tools and

existing partners. We had one part of the technology,

the talent to quickly and effectively come up with a

the sound system for Fanblock, and we have the access

solution to address this, and so Fanblock was born

to the customer base globally, but we needed the crowd

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INTERVIEW

could help us bring drama and an exciting atmosphere back into stadiums. Alongside their sound design work, their Stadium Sound product made them the ideal partner for this

“One of the players mentioned after the game that he thought the crowd were actually in the stadium and felt it was a lot better to play in.”

Amnon Harman, d&b audiotechnik

project. It’s a great partnership and it has been extremely gratifying to see new stadiums deploy Fanblock over the last few months.

Who provides the actual crowd sounds for the Fanblock system?

The fans! Autograph’s content partner, FanChants, offers club-specific chants, but also custom-made chants, so fans at home can send in their reaction and feel they are part of the game. This is how we combine fan reaction online with the physical loudspeaker systems in the stadiums to create a hybrid fan interaction experience.

Can you give us some insight into the use of MyApplause?

The MyApplause smartphone app can be integrated with Fanblock so that fans at home or in the stadium can send personalised singing, applause - or boos! - into the stadiums.

The months where fans felt disconnected and disengaged

atmosphere compositions, and Autograph was at the front of

from their favourite sports are now over and we are delighted

our mind. As one of the leading theatrical and creative sound

to be back to noisy, atmospheric stadiums - something we

designers out there - and already a d&b business partner who

never would have thought possible just a few months ago.

are familiar with our technology - we knew that Autograph

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INTERVIEW

030

There have been a few different enhanced crowd sound

Where has the Fanblock system been used so far – and what

systems used in the likes of NBA, MLB etc., what makes

was the feedback like?

Fanblock different to those?

d&b Fanblock is a game-changer for viewers, players, clubs,

Most of the time when broadcasters add crowd noise to the

federations and broadcasters as we bring the much-needed

sound in an empty stadium, the two mix very synthetically

intense atmosphere and emotion back into sports stadiums

and it sounds fake, whereas Fanblock provides a much more

or indoor events around the world. In the UK, we have

realistic crowd atmosphere. There is really no comparing

deployments in stadiums such as Kiyan Prince Foundation

the two! Our refined system allows for object-based signal

Stadium and Deepdale Stadium - and the feedback has been

management, allowing complex sound events to be moved

phenomenal. Last weekend, Preston North End won their

dynamically around the stadium in real-time, adding subtlety

first home game at Deepdale with Fanblock, having lost the

and detail to the effect of Stadium Sound in response to the

previous six games. Now, we definitely are not taking full

actions on the field. This approach allows spectator chants

credit for the win, but one of the players, Paul Gallagher,

to grow from one section before building out to fill the entire

mentioned after the game that he thought the crowd were

stadium. When we play the Stadium Sound composition in

actually in the stadium and felt it was a lot better to play in.

the stadium, it sounds as though the fans are right there

The positive effect that Fanblock has on the psyche of the

reacting to the players every move.

players and viewers should not be underestimated.

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SCAN & WATCH

INTERVIEW

Are their plans to use it in other stadiums / venues?

Yes, definitely - many venues and clubs are realising the psychological effect that silent stadiums have on players and fans. We are currently working on a range of Fanblock deployments with a number of sports facilities and clubs and we look forward to announcing more projects very soon.

What are you expecting from the sporting venue industry in 2021?

While the industry will recover, I think many of the new concepts, such as Fanblock, will be here to stay. Fanblock may have started as a solution to social distancing restrictions, but we are seeing new and exciting applications and projects every day. This marks the beginning of a new generation of audio augmented reality (AAR) for live sports events.

Overall, though, I am extremely proud of the innovation, resilience and passion the entire team at d&b has shown over the last few months.

For us to be able to design and roll out an innovative new technology offering like this during such an unsettling and strange time in the business and the world is a testament to the talent we have at our disposal. I look forward to sharing our further successes with you soon.

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INTERVIEW

TOM VECSERNYES Founder & CEO, Seyu

Can you give us some insight into the solutions

displayed on the giant screens and perimeter LED

provided by Seyu?

boards or any digital platforms that the clubs would

Seyu is a real-time, fan engagement, photo sharing

like to use for the activation. The image will also be

solution that allows fans to take photos, then add

added to the user’s gallery and they will have the

motivating messages and post them on to the

option to instantly share it on social media.

commercial LED boards, giant screens and social media

Fan selfies are very popular - they trigger a lot more

in club-branded frames through a moderated channel.

interactions than an average post – and Seyu plays into

On the other hand, our solution helps clubs to collect

that. Fans are proud to show themselves in the colours

fan data and instantly distribute safe, user-generated

of their team, even more so when it’s being shown at

content on their existing digital platforms, while

the venue.

generating more revenue on already-sold commercial surfaces, which aids in helping sponsors build the

How do the clubs benefit from using Seyu?

desired emotional bridge between their specific brands

Seyu enables sports clubs to tap into the huge spending

and fans.

power of remote fans, all while collecting fan data, generating a new kind of market intelligence data and

What experience is Seyu providing to the fans?

accelerating their Marketing-PR-CSR communications.

It’s allowing fans to show love and support to their

When using Seyu, our partners can monetise their

team, even when they are not there at the event.

enormous remote fanbase – and, on top of that, they

With Seyu, they can directly communicate with their

can expand the marketing portfolio offered to potential

favorite athletes in a unique way at the venues. This is

sponsors.

important to a lot of fans - and the operation is quite simple from their side, too. The fans simply need to

What attracts sponsors to the Seyu solution?

download a free app, take a selfie, add a message and

Enhanced social media exposure, in particular, thanks

post it through Seyu, or a white label version of it.

to the moderated, mass-produced, fan-generated and

Once it’s approved by our system, the image will be

highly-engaging content. Besides that, there is also

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035

INTERVIEW

world events, and they were all close to our hearts. If I have to pick a few, then those would be our cooperation with Vodafone and Wasps Rugby in the UK, our recent debut in LaLiga SmartBank with CD Leganés

“It’s allowing fans to show love and support to their team, even when they are not there at the event.”

and Mercedes-Benz, and the 2019 FIE Fencing World Championships.

Tom Vecsernyes, Seyu

clubs without initial investment, helping them to make up for the lost

How have things been for Seyu throughout 2020?

If I’m being honest, it has certainly been a challenging year for us. I would say that we took a step back as our debut in the Bundesliga was postponed, however, pulling through helped us to focus on what we do best - innovation. So, we revised our business model and came up with a revenue model that makes our solution available for cash-strapped ticket sales revenue by increasing their webshop sales - often by €30k to €60k per match.

We also opened our focus towards esports and broadcasting, enhancing the viewer experience and the inclusion of streamers.

the fact it generates much more attention from fans on perimeter LED advertising.

Seyu partnered with Wasps for the restart of Gallagher Premiership

Our solution also expands the sponsors’ advertisement exposure directly

Rugby - how did the partnership work?

to fans via eight additional digital commercial platforms.

Our partnership with Wasps Rugby is one that showcases perfectly how a club can provide additional value for sponsors - in this case, for

036

What have been your favourite projects so far?

their main sponsor, Vodafone. Wasps’ Chief Commercial Officer, Adam

Well, that’s a difficult questions to answer! We have over 170 sporting

Benson, was quick to see the benefits of Seyu, in that the club could

events behind us in the short period of 24 months, including seven

now involve fans at home in the matches, while providing additional

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MANICA

Lead Design Architect of Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, NV

manicaarchitecture.com

INTERVIEW

exposure for Vodafone, who were also very keen to look for ways to reach fans in the new environment.

How has the recent partnership with CD Leganés been received?

In the past weeks, we launched our service in Spain at CD Leganés where we are not only delivering increased exposure of MercedesBenz, their sponsor, via the fan selfies, but we’ve also managed to increase designated merchandise sales by 115% that comes with the VIP photo posting experience. The revenue generated on the particular merchandise has increased by 135% for the club, thanks to the higher margin that was applied for this item.

Any more partnerships coming up soon?

We are currently in talks with clubs in England, Spain, Italy and Germany regarding the launch of our service before Christmas and we have a cooperation already in place with a reseller of our product on the US market.

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Find us online /mondostadia @mondostadia @mondostadia

Contact us at subcriptions@mondiale.co.uk

15 THE FULL PITCH

042 2020 NBA Bubble | Orlando, USA 054 Levi’s Stadium | San Francisco, USA

THE FULL PITCH

2020 NBA BUBBLE Orlando, USA Images: MA Lighting, disguise, Firehouse Productions, JBL Pro, Riedel, Q5X

I

t’s been a turbulent, challenging year within the world of sports, with every major league disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, when faced with difficulties on a scale like no other, the

industry has gone to extraordinary lengths to adapt and bring sport back for fans in any way possible. The approach taken by the NBA is the perfect example of planning, ingenuity and determination, resulting in the impressive 2020 NBA Bubble.

In a bid to protect the players, staff and crew from the pandemic during the final eight games of the 2019-2020 season, as well as the 2020 NBA playoffs and finals, an isolation zone – or ‘bubble’ – was created at Walt Disney World in Florida, Orlando. There were 22 NBA teams invited to participate – all staying at Disney World hotels - with all games being held behind closed doors at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. The project was a $190m investment approved by the NBA in June following the suspension of the season in March.

After three exhibition scrimmages at the new, temporary venue

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043

THE FULL PITCH

044

in late July, the teams invited to the 2020 NBA Bubble played

morning, I woke up with this very strange idea in my head

eight regular season games to determine the seeding for the

of ‘what if he didn’t know there weren’t fans.’ I called the

playoffs, which began on August 17. The NBA finals started

NBA, a very good client of ours, and pitched the idea. Within

on September 30 and ended on October 11, with the Los

a week, they’d bought in fully and we started preparing for

Angeles Lakers defeating Miami Heat.

the first tests.

In the end, the 2020 NBA Bubble had no recorded cases of

“There were four to six weeks of meetings, both virtual and

COVID-19 for any of the teams involved. Although there was

in person, leading up to a demo event for the NBA at a local

some mixed reaction from players and coaches initially, the

basketball court in Red Hook, NY. Once we arrived in Orlando,

project was a huge success – and that was, in no small part,

there were two weeks of load in time to install tech and test

thanks to the array of state-of-the-art technology used to

all three arenas and the broadcast systems.”

deliver this project.

Within the NBA Bubble, there were three courts used – the

Firehouse Productions were enlisted to provide the

Arena, the main court for televised games, including the NBA

audio, communications and RF coordination for the NBA

Finals; the Field House, the second court which was also used

Bubble. Mark Dittmar, VP at Firehouse Productions, takes

for televised games up until the finals; and the Visa Athletic

up the story: “We have provided sound reinforcement,

Center, which was used for non-national games.

communications and RF coordination for NBA games, All-

The initial plan was to use one PA system for crowd sounds

Star and special events for the last decade. We maintain a

in each of the venues, however, that soon changed to two PA

solid working relationship with the organisation, so, as a

systems – one for the court and another for the audience.

result, there is a mutual trust, which allows our team to

Vinny Siniscal of Firehouse Productions explained further:

react quickly to unique situations, designing and deploying

“The system design was a 10.6 surround setup encircling

multiple systems in a short time frame with outstanding

the arena floor, aimed at the court, instead of the fans, as

results.

would normally be the case. A separate PA was also installed

“When the NBA season stopped on March 11, we had just

as coverage for the in-house seating of a COVID-19-tested

finished the All-Star Game two weeks prior. LeBron James

audience from the Bubble. Every array had to be flown around

was on television saying he would never play basketball

massive LED walls, as well as the lighting and broadcast

without fans because the fans are everything to him. The next

gear.”

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The audio system for each court within the venue was the

subwoofers. Then the S25 came out, and I don’t know what

same, with 10 hangs of six loudspeakers, six low hangs and

they did or how they did it, but it’s a huge amount of power

four hangs placed at a high angle to deliver an authentic

in a very small package. I use it all the time. It’s designed to

sound from the upper decks. The Arena used K2 loudspeakers

work with the V20s, and it’s got way more low-end than any

from L-Acoustics, with the other two courts using

double 15 I’ve ever worked with in my life.”

L-Acoustics’ KARAs.

Firehouse Productions also selected Crown I-Tech 4x3500HD

The audience PA system in the two main venues, on the

and 12000HD amplifiers to power both audio systems.

other hand, used three hangs of eight JBL Pro VTX V20

Featuring BSS OMNIDRIVEHD processing with linear phase

loudspeakers, with VTX S25 subwoofers, supported by

FIR filters and the acclaimed LevelMAX Limiter Suite, both

additional Firehouse F12s on the upper deck delays.

models provide crystal-clear amplification with ample

“The NBA has a very strict 85 dB limit on the PA system,

headroom. Network connectivity via HiQnet and Ethernet

so intelligibility becomes everything,” explained Mark.

protocols provided a high degree of control and real-time

“When you can go up to 100 dB, you don’t need as much

diagnostics, too.

intelligibility, because you can just turn it up and people can

“The court system mixers were DiGiCo SD7’s each with 180+

hear it. When you have an 85 dB limit, that’s a very different

inputs. A network of Yamaha QL1’s, six in total, were used to

game. You need to be intelligible above the audience sound.

route the audience sweetening. Figure 53’s Q-Lab multimedia

“For most of my shows, and for the NBA in particular, I’ve

playback software was used to trigger the immersive audio on

been using JBL VTX V20 loudspeakers for a number of years.

two Mac Book Pros with four Novation Launch Pads and two

With their intelligibility, size and power factor, they’re just

iPads for each venue as the HUI,” said Vinny.

spectacular. The 105º pattern really lets me cover a lot, and

Firehouse Productions strived to get the crowd sound as

they sound great. Part of what I like about JBL is that it’s very

realistic as possible, which isn’t as simple as it seems.

consistent and reliable for me. I don’t have to worry about

“The audio design was, at first, a little too perfect. Fans don’t

intelligibility or things like that, so I don’t have to get into a

cheer in perfect stereo and chants don’t happen in perfect

complicated design. I like to keep it very, very simple.”

unison - instead, they start in different parts of the arena

“The subwoofers are my favorite thing out there,” added

and grow slowly,” added Mark.

Mark. “Up until I saw this product, I hated 15-inch

With this in mind, Firehouse’s Director of Engineering, Paul

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THE FULL PITCH

046

Bauman, was brought in to ‘mess things up’ and make the

connections to six onsite OB trucks. Deployed in a fully

experience of playing on the court feel more realistic. Using

redundant fiber ring configuration, the Artist nodes are

the Los Angeles Staples Center as a sample, Paul’s audio

able to support users communicating via Bolero beltpacks

simulation software approximated audience noise from the

throughout the vast ESPN complex - including players,

upper and lower bowls. The arrays that were generating

coaches, and officials in the green zone, where games are

sound from the upper bowl were delayed so the sound arrived

played on three venues, and the yellow zone, encompassing

later on the court. Then, higher frequencies were rolled off

the technical and broadcast compound.

making things sound more natural.

Using Bolero, personnel who could no longer speak directly

Firehouse Productions also deployed a landmark Riedel

with each other due to social distancing measures could then

solution, which enabled officials, coaches, and production

communicate clearly and easily. For instance, coaches and

personnel to communicate safely.

officials were able to converse with scorers and other game

“This was a complex installation, and there’s no way we

personnel sequestered behind plexiglass shields at courtside.

could have met all of the NBA’s comms requirements with

Luis Espinal, Intercom Curator for the Firehouse team,

any intercom manufacturer other than Riedel,” said Vinny.

built custom logic functions into the Artist nodes that allow

“Working with the Riedel team, we were able to design a

specific mic feeds to be routed to specific broadcast trucks.

truly elegant and integrated solution that enables crystal-

The onsite Bolero universe, based on two fully redundant

clear communications, while also ensuring that officials,

hub-and-spoke networks of Luminex switches, offers up to

coaches, and producers maintained safe distances from each

128 multicast flows – giving the deployment room to grow as

other.”

and when more beltpacks are needed.

“The ability to add custom logic to the Artist network is a

“The NBA Bubble is a perfect example of thinking outside the

huge plus because it allowed us to build in more redundancy

box to ensure continuity for one of the world’s most popular

and ensure effective monitoring for the entire intercom

sports, and we’re proud that Riedel has been able to play

ecosystem. It’s an example of why Firehouse chose Riedel

such a key role,” said Joyce Bente, President and CEO, Riedel

- and why Artist and Bolero are our go-to solutions for big

North America. “Once again, our partnership with Firehouse

events.”

Productions has ensured a smooth and highly creative

Firehouse used 12 Riedel Artist intercom nodes, providing

deployment that meets the NBA’s stringent requirements for

almost 500 active communications ports to support 113

safe and reliable communications.”

master panels; 57 Performer C3 intercom beltpacks; 116

Firehouse’s attention to detail and overall delivery was

Bolero wireless intercom beltpacks; and 186 analog 4-wire

certainly one of the main reasons behind the NBA Bubble’s

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success. It was huge effort by the team, providing complete

From this point forward, the transmitters are controlled

audio coverage, communications and RF coordination in just

remotely using the handheld MicCommander at distances of

over six months, from inception to completion.

50-metres or more, so there is no need for the A2 technician

Faced with the additional challenge of how to safely

managing the audio to approach the players. All features of

implement distanced workflow while capturing in-

the transmitters can be controlled from outside of the locker

game player audio, the NBA chose Q5X remote controlled

room or from the perimeter of the playing surface.

PlayerMics to produce ‘miced up’ segments.

Bodypack transmitters for coaches and game officials

Q5X manufactures PlayerMic wireless microphone

present similar challenges for distanced workflow. The Q5X

transmitters that are designed for the rigours of professional

CoachMic and RefMic bodypacks offer the same advantages

sports; safe, rugged, sweat-proof and totally remote

as the PlayerMic, with an easily sanitisable design and

controlled. The sealed, flexible rubber packages contain a

remote control of all transmitter parameters. Both of these

rechargeable lithium polymer battery, which will run for

transmitters are a one-piece solution, featuring a large,

either four hours or eight hours, depending on the model

integrated, rocker-style mute switch so the coach or referee

selected. These features are not new, but translate perfectly

can either mute the transmitter for sensitive conversations or

into the reality of COVID-19 distanced workflow. The

activate it for announcements. The transmitter bodypack and

transmitters are completely sanitisable and can be operated

attached microphone element can be placed in standby mode,

remotely with a handheld MicCommander, allowing users

bagged and left in the dressing room for the coach or referee

to safely observe social distancing protocols. The need to be

to install themselves.

sweat-proof requires sealed designs without leaky battery

For the visual element of the NBA Bubble, it was Fuse

chambers or control elements on the transmitter package.

Technical Group that supplied all the impressive court video

Sanitising a Q5X transmitter is as easy as sanitising an

systems for the three venues. Each basketball court was

iPhone; just wipe it down with the approved alcohol-based

created with giant, wraparound LED video screens, topped by

disinfectant.

graphics displays.

In sports broadcast, the sanitised transmitters are typically

A pre-recorded national anthem, as well as player intros,

placed in the padding or jersey, well in advance of the game

were displayed on the screens before the start of games and

- this is effectively micing the equipment rather than the

virtual fans were shown enjoying and reacting to game play.

player. The NBA placed the Q5X PlayerMic transmitters in a

To customise the courts for the designated ‘home team’, a

custom pocket stitched under the arm, on the side of every

database of music, audio cues and graphics that the teams

game jersey. The mic element is then taped to the inside of

would ordinarily use in their home arenas was used, with

the collar, with the mic cable securely taped to the inside of

the dynamic audio and video elements building in intensity

the jersey.

as the playoffs progressed. A bank of in-game reactions was

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also developed to support big plays and help support the natural momentum of the game.

To achieve this, Fuse provided four programmers, with an arsenal of grandMA hardware to play back and trigger various assets and effects during the games. This included five grandMA3 full-size units with one MA NPU (Network Processing Unit), plus two grandMA2 full-size and one grandMA2 consoles, with the latter as backup systems and the tech desk.

“The NBA wanted to create an interesting on-camera experience that would engage as many fans as possible.

The solution they arrived at was to line the courts with a U-shaped LED arrangement,” explained programmer, Jeremy Lechterman, Principal of FragmentNine, a live event creative direction company. “That high-resolution element was primarily used to display team content and the virtual fans, while a low-res ribbon element was hung above to simulate traditional in-arena video.”

In addition, a scoreboard element – approximately onequarter the size of a typical centerhung arena scoreboard - was set on the side under the camera platform – this was primarily for coaches and players.

The grandMA3s were programmed to integrate with 13 disguise gx 2c media servers, which handled the teams’ screens content, and a Barco E2 system, which switched the virtual fans, the disguise team content, stats, and the program cut from broadcast.

During the one-week quarantine transition into the NBA Bubble, the production team made use of disguise’s previsualisation to review content and cue up sessions with the screens producers via Zoom. The team decided to use disguise’s Sockpuppet workflow to enable them to respond quickly to game play and the evolving nature of the overall game experience. Games were played on three courts simultaneously, where any of the 22 teams could be the home team, so Fuse kept its grandMA3 consoles in network together to continually update programming and move it to different courts based on which teams were playing where each day “We needed some software tweaks along the way to optimise our workflow and were very appreciative to be working with disguise, which had the resources to get us updates within a day,” added Charles Dabezies of Fuse. “This was certainly an edge case; none of us had done a show with 14,000 plus media files, and it pushed the disguise workflow to the limits. The disguise team was able to reinvent some aspects of the UI to help us handle this massive amount of data. With disguise being so flexible, there was never a choke point to the league or team’s creativity.”

“This was the first time any of us [programmers] had done sports and the first time this format was used,” Jeremy pointed out. “The grandMA3 is not the system typically used in these teams’ home arenas to handle video. None of the usual in-arena systems could be used in the Bubble where we needed to serve up content for 22 teams and have multiple simultaneous users. Without the grandMA3, there wouldn’t have been a solution.”

The NBA Bubble marked the first time any of the programmers had used grandMA3 hardware for a long-term show, although the grandMA3 is their platform of choice.

“We came to the grandMA3 with muscle memory from the grandMA2, and it didn’t take us long to adapt to the grandMA3,” added Jeremy.

He praised to the grandMA3’s multi-user environment something not found on other platforms: “We had four programmers working independently at the same time and handing the programming seamlessly. We built a complex

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T: + 44 (0)20 7608 7900 info@wilkinsoneyre.com www.wilkinsoneyre.com

Architecture by

@wilkinsoneyre wilkinsoneyre wilkinsoneyre

Lord’s Cricket Ground The new Compton and Edrich Stands, designed by WilkinsonEyre, will be ready for use in the 2020 season

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series of macros to achieve this, but we were able to program

with Cycling 74’s Max 8, which read the incoming game

four games simultaneously without stepping on each other.”

clock signal from Mixon Stats and sent DMX triggers to the

Programmer, Michael ‘Hank’ Hankowksy, revealed that there

consoles.

were 7,000 individual clips by the middle of the process. He

“System Engineer, Josh Flitel, also wrote a Universe show

continued: “The grandMA3 is so extensible; we could write

control file to give us full access to the E2s and routers from

custom script to automate a lot of the data entries. Then,

the desk. The entire show could be run using the grandMA3

with data and preprogrammed looks in the desk, we could

as the only control surface. Josh did an incredible job building

copy and paste them where we needed them.”

out this handshake between all the parts of the system.”

“It was amazing the way Hank really scripted the consoles,”

Content was constantly upgraded as the season progressed

said Chris Peterson, Vice President of Entertainment at Fuse

and milestones were marked. “As of September 10, the media

Technical Group. “The ability to parse large amounts of data

managed totaled 14,200 individual video clips,” Hank added.

and build huge cue lists was instrumental in the success of

“Changes were still being made as we reached the Eastern

this job.”

Conference finals. Having the grandMA3’s flexibility to

During the seeding games, the programmers typically worked

make changes on the fly was invaluable - everyone was very

games at FOH alongside a screens producer representing their

pleased with the system’s performance.”

own team’s in-arena presentation. The screens producers

“This was a totally new experience for the NBA, as well as the

were armed with Novation Launchpad X MIDI loaded with

teams involved,” concluded Charles. “Our largest challenge

in-game reactive elements, such as player headshots and

was understanding how to adapt 22 different team’s shows

animations for a three-pointer or a spectacular dunk, for

for this new environment. Adapting a traditional basketball

example.

game to this layout was new for everyone”

“Because they understood basketball better than we did, they

It may have been a project like no other for all those involved,

could trigger those elements on their own in the grandMA3

with the scale of the task being truly incredible. However,

via the MIDI pad,” furthered Jeremy. “While we were

that has only made the NBA Bubble project all the more

handling the big switching elements - the virtual fans, the

impressive. Everyone was aware that – like all sports – it

video packages, time-out highlight reels - they could quickly

just wouldn’t be the same without the fans at the venue, but,

trigger all the game play reactions.

despite the obstacles, everyone involved in the project has

“On the corner screens in the ribbons, we were tasked

achieved something special. The 2020 NBA Bubble shows how

with displaying and changing sponsor advertisements and

technology can enhance the sporting experience, whatever

specific intervals on the game clock. This was accomplished

the situation may be.

BRANDS: MA Lighting, disguise, Riedel, JBL Pro, Quantum5X, Barco, DiGICo | DESIGNER / INSTALLER: Firehouse Productions, Fuse Technical Group | WEBSITES: www.malighting. com, www.disguise.one, www.riedel.net, www.jblpro.com, www.q5x.com, www.barco.com, www.digico.biz, www.firehouseproductions.com, www.fuse-tg.com 052

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LEVI’S STADIUM San Francisco, USA Images: Levi’s Stadium, San Francisco 49ers

T

he San Francisco 49ers and Foxconn Industrial Internet (Fii) have completed a ground-breaking technological accomplishment with the installation of the world’s first-ever, full-field 8K video replay

system. This achievement comes just over a year after the brands announced their multi-year partnership and plan to collaborate on 8K technologies that make Levi’s Stadium the first sports and entertainment venue with 8K video capabilities.

Since the aforementioned partnership announcement in September 2019, the 49ers and Fii have shared a congruent tech vision with 8K video capabilities that would keep Levi’s Stadium at the forefront of fan-centric innovation. That vision becomes a reality thanks to five 8K cameras, positioned inside the stadium to provide full-field coverage and clear views of all goal lines and side-lines, which

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utilise an incomparable digital zoom without pixilation.

between the 49ers and Fii to continue the development of

Aron Kennedy, 49ers Vice President of Game Day Production

the necessary technological advancements that will make it

and Broadcast Operations, spoke to MONDO | STADIA about

easier and more cost-effective to manage 8K video now and

how the project first came about: “Our partner, Foxconn

in the future.

Industrial Internet came to the table almost two years ago

A true technological feat, the 49ers new video replay system

wanting to implement 8K technology into the stadium. I

is able to ingest the highest amounts of data for any existing

immediately thought the best way to integrate 8K technology

stadium to produce video in 8K. This data is sent to the Levi’s

into the existing Scoreboard Control room was to use 8K

Stadium scoreboard control room, the hub of the system,

cameras and tie them into our replay system.

there the game day production team is able to route and

“From there, the testing started with our replay system. Our

distribute the signals to different areas of the stadium. Most

control room is HD, so with the 8K cameras, we then extract

importantly, those areas include the two 200 x 48 ft video

that HD signal – and that was the most efficient way for

boards, which can make even the smallest on-field details

us to take our first steps into the world of 8K technology.

crystal clear.

I believe we’re the first venue in the world to use the 8K

Aron added: “Our 8K system has one camera on each side

technology with a five camera array to digitally map the

line, one on each goal line and then another camera that

playing surface.”

covers the entire field – the All-22 camera that is used a lot

An initial two-camera test run was successfully staged last

in coaching.

year during a 49ers home game on December 21 against

“The exciting thing is that, with the 8K technology, you

the Rams, providing proof of concept for the capture-to-

can now zoom in on a player from a huge distance and still

consumption plan and validation that the project was on

extract the HD signal out of it. It’s actually mindblowing

track. This year, additional tests and demos were completed

what you can get out of the system – in fact, we were

at 49ers home games between October 4-18 against the

actually able to overturn a play on its debut. So, it’s great to

Eagles, Dolphins and Rams.

see it work so well straight away.”

Insights from these demos have fuelled the collaboration

It’s expected that the new replay system will have a positive

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effect on the atmosphere inside the stadium and for fans at

angle, in particular. As it’s digitally mapped in 8K from five

home, too, as Aron furthered: “Our job is to help the team in

different angles, we just don’t miss a thing.”

any way we can – when the team wins, the fans have a better

“Fii, the world’s leading provider of intelligent

experience. When we’re able to welcome our fans back, if

manufacturing integration solutions, has partnered with

we show a play on the video boards that helps the team, the

others to deploy 8K camera technology that will enhance the

energy from the fans will be fantastic.

fan experience and revolutionise the way coaches and players

“We want to show off this technology! Our goal is to take

capture and evaluate game time footage,” said Foxconn

this footage and really show the fans at home what we can

Industrial Internet. “Football is a game of inches, but the

achieve using our social platforms.”

closest officiating calls come down to millimeters. With an

After making its debut on November 5 for Thursday Night

8K camera, which has four times the image resolution of the

Football, the feedback was very positive when it came to the

human eye, fans, coaches and referees will be able to better

new system.

see a single blade of grass, some white and some green, and

“I mean, it’s never been done before, so there was a real

more accurately determine whether the football broke the

excitement – and, of course, a couple of little hiccups, but

goal line or if a wide receiver’s toe was out of bounds. With

nothing to be too worried about. All in all, we’re just thrilled

examples like this, the possibilities for 8K camera technology

with the newly-integrated system,” said Aron. “It’s really

throughout the sports entertainment industry will be

fascinating to see a football field in 8K – that All-22 camera

endless.”

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Retractable roof over No.1 Court at Wimbledon (c)AELTC/Bob Martin

A winning double at Wimbledon Retractable pitch at Tottenham Hotspur (c)THFC

We are proud to have worked alongside the All England Lawn Tennis Club to engineer and install our second retractable roof at Wimbledon, this time over the iconic No.1 Court.

May play continue, whatever the weather.

We also created and installed the world-first dividing retractable pitch – and grow lights – at Tottenham Hotspur’s stunning new stadium, the pivoting seats at Wembley, the removable crossing at Ascot, and much more besides…

Pivoting seats at Wembley

Find out more at scxspecialprojects.co.uk Removable course crossing at Ascot

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“What started out more than a year ago as a dream for Levi’s Stadium, our 8K video replay system is finally complete and we can’t wait to showcase it to the world,” concluded Aron.

“It is an amazing feeling to see a project as advanced as this through from the brainstorming stages, to the final tests and completion. We are very fortunate to have Fii on our team as a corporate partner who shares our commitment to enhancing the fan experience.

“We’re just really thankful to Foxconn. It’s been a long road to get here and it really does take a team of very talented people to be able to do something like this – and make it work, too, of course! Back when we had those first discussions, I knew exactly how we could do it right away.

I was on board from the off, because I know football and stadium technology – we knew we could implement this at Levi’s Stadium and push things forward again. It just takes that one little spark and here we are two years later rolling it out. I honestly get goosebumps talking about it – it’s a really exciting time for us.”

BRAND: Foxxconn Industrial Internet | WEBSITES: www.fii-foxconn.com

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VIDEO

064 Philips Stadion | Eindhoven, Netherlands

084 Milan Puskar Center | West Virginia, USA

068 Batumi Stadium | Batumi, Georgia 074 Adams Park | Wycombe, England

AUDIO

ESPORTS

076 VIejas Arena | San Diego, USA

086 League of Legends | Shanghai, China

SEATING 080 El Sadar Stadium | Pamplona, Spain

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PHILIPS STADION Eindhoven, Netherlands Images: PSV Media, Signify

S

ignify has recently launched a broad portfolio of luminaires and devices with UV-C disinfection lighting for the professional market. Together with Boston University, the company validated the effectiveness of UV-C light sources in

inactivating SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19. This development is of huge interest to the sporting industry, too, as they look to keep club staff - and, eventually, the fans - safe when at the stadiums and facilities.

With that in mind, Dutch giants, PSV Eindhoven, asked Signify to install UV-C disinfection lighting in some indoor spaces, including the dressing rooms, at Philips Stadion, as well as some spaces at its training facility De Herdgang. “Safeguarding player health is very important to us and essential for matches to continue. That is why we want to protect them, and the visiting players, to the best of our ability. We are convinced that the Philips UV-C disinfection upper air lighting enables us to provide our players with that extra layer of protection,� said Frans Janssen, Commercial Director at PSV. In total, Signify has installed 15 Philips UV-C disinfection upper air

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luminaires, with three of the fixtures in the home dressing

of the dressing rooms and mixes with the air. Philips UV-C

room and another three in the visiting team’s dressing room

disinfection upper air luminaires are equipped with shielding

at Philips Stadion. Elsewhere, another five have been installed

and optics to prevent exposure to UV-C radiation, so players

in the dressing room at PSV Campus De Herdgang, as well as

can get changed without any concern.

another four in the medical section at the Eredivisie side’s

To meet the increasing demand for new UV-C-based

training facility. The installation of the UV-C disinfecting

disinfection applications and address associated safety

lighting took place in November.

requirements, Signify has contributed to - and adopted - the

UV-C breaks down the DNA or RNA of microorganisms,

UV-C Safety Guidelines, published by the Global Lighting

including viruses and bacteria, thereby rendering them

Association. The company has applied these guidelines, in

harmless. Signify’s UV-C lamps emit a peak of radiation

conjunction with other applicable standards, to its new range

at 254 nm, which is near the peak wavelength for germ

of UV-C disinfection solutions.

deactivation, and therefore ideal for disinfecting air, surfaces

Earlier this year, the Global Lighting Association brought

and objects.

together industry experts and developed guidelines to assist

The UV-C disinfection upper air luminaires can be used

users and manufacturers to ensure that UV-C technology and

with people present. They continuously disinfect the air

products are used safely at all times. These guidelines build

that flows through the upper areas of the dressing rooms,

on the principles of internationally-accepted standards, such

thanks to natural convection, or air circulation. This also

as IEC 62471, the photobiological safety standard, and they

ensures that the disinfected air flows back to the lower part

prescribe additional technical and procedural safeguards.

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“Time is of the essence in the battle against COVID-19.

technical safeguards, such as presence detection, controlled

UV-C lighting provides a quick, powerful and highly

access or containment, as well as detailed guidance on

effective means of disinfection. It’s also proven to be safe

the use of warning labels, user manuals and instructional

when it’s designed, installed and used according to safety

trainings for the safe use of UV-C technology.

instructions,” added Olivia Qiu, Chief Innovation Officer at

“We’re experiencing a growing demand for disinfection

Signify.

methods from a wide array of organisations. UV-C lighting

“By adopting the Global Lighting Association guidelines, we

helps to disinfect air, surfaces, objects and spaces - fast,

provide a further level of confidence in the safe deployment

efficient and effective,” said Hellen van der Plas, Market

of UV-C technologies. We urge other manufacturers to

Leader of Signify’s operations in the Benelux. “We’re very

follow suit and adhere to these new industry guidelines.”

proud that we’re now able to help PSV, a prominent top

Using standardised irradiance measurements and risk

tier club in the Netherlands, based in our company’s home

group classifications for UV-C products as the basis, the

city, to provide their players with that additional layer of

guidelines provide further requirements for applicable

protection.”

BRAND: Signify | WEBSITES: www.signify.com WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

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BATUMI STADIUM Batumi, Georgia Images: HERA LED

O

pened in July 2020, Batumi Stadium, Georgia’s most prestigious project of recent years, is built on 87 acres of land, with 30,000 sq metres of indoor space and a capacity for 20,000 spectators. Designed by architect, Mr. Bahadir Kul,

The stadium itself is an impressive landmark that is inspired by the city’s passion for dance, with a unique whirling architectural exterior that was constructed entirely in accordance with the requirements of the UEFA - IV category.

The structure of the stadium’s creative lighting projects fell into the hands of HERA LED, a leading manufacturer in the field of architectural and entertainment lighting. On this particular project, the lighting company complemented Batumi Stadium’s one-of-a-kind structure by adding dynamic lighting applications that have the capacity to create hundreds of dancing animations across the façade.

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“We were first approached to be involved with Batumi

MADRIX 5 ultimate software to create 80 different scenarios

Stadium by our project partner company, SYLVANIA,”

using various colour effects, at the request of the project

explained Serkan Demirel, Project Sales Director at HERA

consultants.

LED.

“MADRIX products allow rich animations to be easily made

“Besides being just a manufacturer, HERA LED is also

thanks to its user-friendly features,” furthered Serkan.

involved in the project design stages, too. With Batumi

“After each installation, our technical team provided MADRIX

Stadium, we considered all of the installation details,

training for the customer’s technical team and, if needed,

materials and application methods, and also recommended

they are also able to easily provide support by connecting

the right products with the most appropriate design to suit

remotely when necessary. We have received a lot of positive

the stadium’s needs.

feedback from completed project technical teams regarding

“When we initially received the project brief, we saw that

MADRIX’s ease of use and flexibility, so it was a no-brainer

the stadium’s façade had been designed with a typical wall

to choose it for this project.”

washer application to a white membrane on a steel structure

As with all HERA LED products, the SWORD Series is DMX512

shell. We decided that implementing this type of lighting

and RDM compatible, and manufactured fully in compliance

design into the project was not an optimal solution, so

with world standards. In the Batumi Stadium project, the

our project design team prepared video presentations with

SWORD RGB fixtures were programmed as six LEDs, one pixel

design alternatives. Based on the customer and architectural

by using the ‘DMX Personality’ feature to achieve optimum

approval of our video presentation, we made our colourful,

view and applying ‘addressing’ accordingly. This meant that

unique designs a reality by doing mock-up work on site.”

commissioning the system was a simple task, and saved

HERA LED and SYLVANIA cooperated on the Batumi Stadium

significant time and labour. The SWORD RGB products were

architectural façade lighting project. 4,000-metres of HERA-

placed with mounting feet specifically designed in accordance

SWORD RGB products were used to create harmony with

with the structure of the facade.

the exterior structure of the stadium, symbolising the swirl

For the stadium’s lighting control, HERA LED again turned

movements common in Georgian folk dances. As well as

to MADRIX to provide seamless control of the large-scale

the HERA LED fixtures, the team also specified MADRIX’s

project. “MADRIX facilitates ethernet-based installation,

LUNA 16 and LUNA 4 – DMX512 interface data devices, and

addressing, mapping and layout processes. It is also very

WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

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easy for us to observe how the templates of the image and

After the on-site application method was checked, production

video files lie. In addition, it’s important that the effects are

started. In addition, board areas were restricted according to

pre-loaded into the MADRIX programme in month/day/hour/

FIFA standards. That is why we needed to have full-length

minute time frames to make the control as easy as possible,”

cables. Since our products work with 48V, we overcame this

said Serkan.

challenge,” explained Serkan.

As Batumi Stadium is intended to be a stand-out landmark

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, fans are still yet to

that reflects the energy of Georgia, the exterior lighting was

experience the full Batumi Stadium match day experience,

configured to have a rhythmic effect with consecutive panels.

as they wonder when its doors will be open for good. The

The HERA LED team wanted to emphasise the dynamism of

new symbol of the city is a real piece of art, and, for now,

the structure by combining traditional figures and colours

its mesmerising façade is enough to satisfy the sparkle of a

with lighting animation that captures the movement of

stadium full of spectators.

traditional Georgian dance. The result is a mesmerising

Serkan concluded: “It is very important for us that we

stadium that has really captured the heart of the city.

successfully completed this large-scale project with our

Challenges understandably arise in almost every large-scale

global project partner, SYLVANIA. We believe that partner

installation project, and with Batumi Stadium, the team ran

communication, taking quick action and being solution

into difficulty when a junction piece was needed between

focussed were all very important to the success of this

the steel structure and façade in order to install the lighting

project. After its completion, its architectural design became

fixtures safely and correctly. As the wings on the stadium

the symbol of the city of Batumi thanks to the harmony

had both different angles and lengths, these junction pieces

of the façade lighting. We believe that the stadium, with

had to be varied, and control had to be provided for each

a capacity of 20,000 people, will increase in popularity as

individual piece. There was also the fear that the outside

spectators experience its lighting dynamics while watching

membrane would be damaged, too. “After taking on-site

sporting events.”

measurements, the connection detail was modelled on the three-dimensional plane and potential options were created.

BRAND: HERA LED, MADRIX | INSTALLER: HERA LED, SYLVANIA | WEBSITES: www.heraled.com, www.madrix.com, www.sylvania-lighting.com

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ADAMS PARK Wycombe, England Images: Musco Lighting

A

dams Park, home to the Championship side,

uniform light onto the pitch and at the same time includes

Wycombe Wanderers, recently installed a

fixture visoring that minimises glare,” said Limpach.

brand-new, advanced lighting system, courtesy

The new system also features Musco’s Showlight+

of Musco Lighting, to bring its home game

entertainment package, which helps enhance the overall

experience to the top of its league.

experience for players and fans with cutting-edge light shows

The new system was custom designed by Musco and features

and special effects. The system includes light-to-sound

state-of-the-art Total Light Control - TLC for LED™

synchronisation, creating memorable audio and visual shows.

technology. With patented light control and a complete

This was ideal for Wycombe as it prepares to bring its team

system design, the new lighting delivers a much whiter,

and facilities into a new era of the club.

cleaner, and more uniform quality of light to the pitch,

The lighting system also benefits from Musco’s Control-

improving visibility, minimising glare, and making colours

Link monitoring system, which provides 24/7 support

appear more vibrant throughout the stadium, while also

from a fully-staffed call-centre team, making scheduling,

significantly reducing the stadium’s energy consumption.

controlling, and monitoring the new system simple and

Musco initially became involved in the project during

convenient.

the early 2019/2020 season. “The club reached out to us

The new lighting at Adams Park features the same Musco

following the winter period of the season, as it was in a

LED technology that has recently been installed at major

position where it needed to prepare for a potential promotion

football stadiums throughout Europe, including Tottenham

to the Championship,” explained Chris Limpach, General

Hotspur Stadium, Wembley Stadium, the San Siro, Emirates

Manager of Musco Europe. “Our role was to design, supply,

Stadium, Aviva Stadium, Etihad Stadium, and Hampden Park.

and install a lighting system for the stadium that would meet

It’s also been the system of choice at dozens of American

league requirements for field-of-play lighting and provide a

venues that are home to the National Basketball Association,

better overall experience for players and fans.”

Major League Baseball, and National Football League

The new system had to comply with the requirements for the

organisations. Some of these include the Mercedes-Benz

Championship, which was now 800 Lux horizontal average.

Superdome, home of the New Orleans Saints, and the Boston

As they had previously only played in League one and two

Celtics’ TD Garden.

with a 500 Lux requirement, Musco designed the system with

Trevor Stroud, a member of the Board of Directors at

spill and glare control in mind. Working closely with Power

Wycombe Wanderers concluded: “We at Wycombe Wanderers

Plus Group, the new system met the club’s every need.

are absolutely delighted with our new floodlight installation.

The stadium’s lighting design is a standard four-corner

We selected Musco because they stood out as the most

pole set-up that delivers enhanced visibility for players on

technically able company and provided the best value for our

the pitch, minimises glare from affecting spectators, and

money.”

enhances broadcast quality. “Our system puts more quality,

BRANDS: Musco Lighting | INSTALLER: Power Plus Group | WEBSITES: www.musco.com, www.powerplusgroup.co.uk WWW.MONDOSTADIA.COM

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VIEJAS ARENA San Diego, USA Images: VUE Audiotechnik

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ecognised as one of the top on-campus indoor

was the home of the 2001 NCAA women’s volleyball national

basketball arenas in the USA, Viejas Arena

championship and again played host to the 2006 NCAA

provides San Diego State University with a

men’s basketball first and second rounds. In 2009, the NCAA

state-of-the-art, multipurpose venue. The arena

women’s basketball first and second rounds graced the Viejas

was constructed on the site of the old Aztec Bowl stadium,

Arena floor and in 2014 the NCAA men’s basketball second

which hosted San Diego State football games, as well as other

and third rounds had a return visit.Viejas Arena is next

athletic, entertainment and cultural events from the time of

scheduled to host the 2018 NCAA men’s basketball first and

its construction in 1936 through to 1967.

second rounds.

Built in 1997, nowadays, the venue is the home of San Diego

Viejas Arena can seat 12,414 for basketball games, however,

State University’s Aztec basketball team and provides a venue

for special events and concerts, the venue can offer a capacity

for university functions, cultural events, concerts and other

of anywhere between 3,000 and 13,500, depending on the

special-event programming.

configuration. This adaptability has seen the arena host

After serving as host to the first and second rounds of the

major acts, including the likes of Lady Gaga, Metallica, Foo

NCAA men’s basketball championship in 2001, the building

Fighters, Britney Spears, Aerosmith, Stevie Nicks, Billy Joel

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and Elton John, as well as a touring production of Cirque Du

The plan was to completely remove the old system and

Soleil’s Ovo.

replace it with new one from VUE Audiotechnik, using al-8

As a premier multipurpose arena, the technology is of vital

Acoustic Linearity line arrays, with VUE’s Brandon Rinas

importance – particularly the audio system for sport, events

assisting with the fine-tuning.

and, of course, concerts, which means it needs to be the best

After sourcing the equipment, the installation took just over

it can possibly be. This led to the team at the arena enlisting

two weeks to complete, with 112 VUE Audiotechnik al-8

the help of Sound Image Integration to deliver a new, high-

loudspeakers, eight hs-28 dual-18 subwoofers and 28 v6-d

end PA system for the venue, with the Southern California-

power amplifiers, as well as a QSC Q-SYS control system

based team handling the project management, design and

making up the new audio setup for Viejas Arena.

engineering of the project.

The 112 al-8 boxes are arranged in 12 clusters, supplemented

It was Sound Image’s Director of Operation, Dave Paviol, who

by the subwoofers, while the amplifiers are in swing-frame

actually installed the original audio system at Viejas Arena 23

racks up in the catwalk area – all combining to deliver an

years ago, so he knew the venue well already, making him an

exceptional sound quality for the games and concerts at

ideal choice to oversee the new project.

the venue. The QSC system offers flexible AV control, too,

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AUDIO

allowing the team to adapt the sound easily for the various

Overall, though, the project at Viejas Arena has been a huge

events.

success, with Sound Image expertly delivering an impressive

The project wasn’t without its challenges as, in the years

VUE Audiotechnik sound system that is the ideal fit for San

since the arena was built, some structural additions were

Diego’s multipurpose facility and its wide range of varied

made that hindered the Sound Image team’s workflow.

events.

Metal rods had been installed throughout the arena ceiling, which prevented the lifts from getting into ideal positions to dismantle the old loudspeakers and install the al-8 clusters from VUE Audiotechnik. Dave and his team decided to utilise a JLG Industries 1200SJP Ultra Series Telescopic Boom Lift that allowed them to rise up at a better angle to access the hang points.

BRAND: VUE Audiotechnik | INSTALLER: Sound Image Integration | WEBSITES: www.vueaudio.com, www.sound-image.com 078

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SEATING

EL SADAR STADIUM Pamplona, Spain Images: Daplast

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ootball clubs offer different areas for fans because of

team, we studied the characteristics of the grandstands in all the

the many ways to experience sport and enjoy football:

stadium areas and then proposed the best solution, according to the

animation stands, preference, VIP and business areas

type of model seat and metal structure,” said José Manuel Mora,

are just some of the specific zones that can alter the

Area Sales Manager at Daplast-Insitual. “The club wanted its new

stadium experience altogether.

interior image to be powerful and strong - and, to achieve this,

Most commonly, you will find different types of stadium seats in

we knew that the stadium seating was going to play an important

each area, too. The models are not only determined by the angle of

role.”

inclination of the grandstand - an essential factor to bear in mind -

The stadium’s philosophy has been reflected in the diversity of the

but they also have to be adapted to each way of living and enjoying

four types of stadium seating models that have been installed in El

football matches inside the stadium.

Sadar Stadium. Firstly, the AVATAR basic model has been placed in

Club Atlético Osasuna has a clear goal, with its reform going way

most areas of the stadium, as it is a wide seat that aims to provide

beyond the refurbishment of its team home, El Sadar Stadium. It

comfort for general use. Secondly, and the first Spanish stadium

seeks to be a football temple in which every match is enjoyed to the

where this model has been installed, Daplast-Insitual supplied the

maximum and also wants to expand this experience to the rest of

Fansit stadium seat. Designed and manufactured to support even

the venue by encompassing fans, press staff, players, technical staff

more severe use than the AVATAR seats, it is recommended for

and management staff, too.

entertainment and visiting fan areas where the treatment of seats

Daplast-Insitual became involved in the project from the very early

may not be particularly delicate.

stages, studying the stadium design and deciding on the potential

Daplast-Insitual’s Fansit model corresponds to the current Safe

seating options to best fit the refurbishment. “Our commitment

Standing movement. Fans in the animation stands, usually located

from the beginning was to advise the club with the best options

at South or North stands of the stadium, claim to be able to enjoy

available. Working in coordination with the project management

football matches standing up, while still respecting the security

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SEATING

measures that were implemented in the early 90s. Rail

As with any project, the Daplast-Insitual team encountered

seats respond to this need by being the solution to make

a few unexpected problems during the installation. “The

standing capacity more flexible, with all the safety measures

main problems always appear in the older parts of a stadium,

guaranteed by handrails implemented throughout the rows.

where due to the characteristics of the stands, we have

Fansit stadium seats for animation stands are made of metal

to carry out special designs to solve certain problems,”

and have a master key, which the club can use to close or

explained José. “A great advantage of our company is that

open the seat - in European competitions, it is still required

we not only manufacture and install but we also carry out

that all seats remain seated. It is designed with an upper bar

the technical part, too, and in the event of any adversity, we

that is anchored to the stands, forming a strong safety barrier

are quick to find the correct solution. With El Sadar Stadium,

and a stable set with the entire row of seats.

special metallic structures have been made in different areas,

All the stadium seats are numbered, the standing capacity

copying the irregular dimensions of the stands, so that the

is determined by the number of places available, and, most

seats are able to fit properly.”

importantly, there are no safety implications as the rows are

Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there have

separated from each other by the security bars. With these

been no fans in the stadium to fully try out the new facilities.

characteristics, the safety requirements are met and there are

However, those who have been lucky to partake in COVID-

many clubs at European leagues that are already installing

safe football, from the club management to the stadium

safe standing areas.

team, have had nothing but praise for the new seating

AVATAR seats with armrests have also been placed in a small

installation. José concluded: “The facilities have not yet

part of the stadium and, finally, AVATAR Premium seating

been used by the spectators, but we do have testimony from

with armrests have been installed in both closed VIP boxes

within the club and there has been huge congratulations for

and other VIP sections of the stadium, too. The AVATAR

the comfort and spaciousness of the seats, and, of course, the

seating models provide other benefits for fans who still

design they have.

prefer to be seated during football matches. The range offers

“For Daplast-Insitual, it’s been special to be able to

comfort and design, while occupying minimal space once

participate in this project and to help the club celebrate its

folded, optimising the space between rows and allowing free

centenary with the presentation of a top stadium in the

space for fans to celebrate a goal.

Spanish football league.”

BRAND: Daplast | WEBSITES: www.daplast.com

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VIDEO

MILAN PUSKAR CENTER West Virginia, USA Images: WVU

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ippotizer Tierra+ Media Server from Green Hippo, the specialist creator of tools for the real-time manipulation of video for the audiovisual industries, is driving the videowall content at the spectacular WVU Football facility at West Virginia University’s new

Milan Puskar Center, in Morgantown, WV. Providing state-of-the-art spaces for players, coaches, staff and visitors, the WVU Milan Puskar Center development is, with the help of Hippotizer, transforming the home of WVU Football, putting its facilities ahead of the competition.

The video playback solution was designed by BrightTree Studios and installed by its parent company, Synergy Media Group, preferred technology suppliers to WVU. It encompasses five large screens in the spacious, luxuriously modern Locker Room, including a main video wall and four ‘end-cap’ screens located at the ends of the locker rows. The Tierra+ Media Server will also handle content feeds and mapping duties for screens in other areas in future phases of this major construction project.

“This was our first project using Hippotizer, and we’ve had a great experience with it,” said David Vargo, Principal of BrightTree Studios. “It allowed us to create the space using the Visualiser software so that we could plan and vision the spaces with the client before the actual construction. This allowed us to develop customised content with WVU’s video producer, Austin Gaines, months before installation, which helped to keep the project on schedule.”

Lead AV Designer at Synergy Media Group, Cory Sarzotti, explained: “This ‘show’ realm, or ‘theatre space’ is not really an area that corporate AV has had a lot to do with in the past, but we’re starting to see more and more requirement for it from our clients. And for this type of work, Hippotizer is a new tool in our toolbelt.”

Cory worked closely with Green Hippo’s Nick Spencer on the integration of the Hippotizer, programming a custom Crestron control system and mapping the content to the multiple screens, all of non-standard resolution. He found the Hippotizer features, along with the “incredibly supportive” backup, to be extremely helpful in achieving such great results.

“The VideoMapper was really useful in addressing content, especially to the end-cap screens in the Locker Room,” he said. “It was also incredibly helpful that the Hippotizer is well known, and that other engineers we were working with on the project had used it before.”

Cory also praised the Hippotizer’s Third Party Control API, commenting: “This allowed me to program an incredible level of detailed control for the customer, recalling complicated show presets with a single touch panel button.”

Also of huge benefit was the accessibility of the Hippotizer interface. “We have some formal client training scheduled,” said Cory, “but because Nick has been training me, and I’ve been showing the client all through the project, they’re already very familiar with it, and are able to manage content, make changes, create presets and add new content.”

He concluded: “Really, the Hippotizer interface is accessible enough to anyone who is familiar with the creative software world, and that’s been really helpful.”

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ESPORTS

LEAGUE OF LEGENDS Shanghai, China Images: ROE Visual

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086

he 2020 League of Legends World

attend matches, the team at League developer, Riot, tried

Championship, one of the biggest events in

something different, with the intention to honor the

esports, took place in Shanghai, China from

great legacy of the game.

September 25th to October 31st. Creative

In order to make this work, Riot brought in some of the

Technology supplied ROE Visual LED panels to create

most advanced LED technology from Creative Technology

an immersive xR Stage to broadcast this international

(CT). They used the same Unreal Engine-driven

tournament.

technology used to film Disney’s The Mandalorian series

The League of Legends World Championship is a

to create an immersive stage setup that changed themes

yearly international tournament that brings together

completely depending on the stage of the tournament.

the top teams from each regional league in a battle to

The matches looked like they took place in a cloudy,

host the Summoner’s Cup and earn the title of World

cyberpunk Shanghai skyline or amid a flooded landscape.

Championship. This year marked the 10th edition.

What could have been a drab competition in the absence

Like most major events, the League of Legends had to

of fans, turned into a really impressive contest with an

be re-envisioned in order to make it happen. Normally,

exhilarating vibe.

the early stages of the tournament would be a traveling

For the Lux Machina team, commissioned with all the

road show, with different rounds taking place in

VFX and xR work, this production was quite ambitious.

different cities. In 2020, things had to change. With

Due to the fact that the whole project is based on live

travel restrictions in place, and fans no longer able to

streaming, there is no time for fixes or tweaks.

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ESPORTS

background needed to be adjusted and coordinated live to

making the flush 90º angles possible. All LED screens used

follow the movements of the four cameras used, which was at

in this set ran on Brompton processing, using two SX40

times quite challenging.

processors, including the back-up.

To build this huge xR Stage, CT used ROE Visual Black Pearl

The staff from CT Shanghai we’re really pleased with both

BP2 LED walls and a Black Marble BM5 LED floor. The

the technical support from ROE Visual, as well as with the

combination of a 360º mixed-reality background using high-

ease and speed of build of this large set. “The fact that we

resolution LED screens and an LED floor created exactly the

could not allow a gap between the LED walls and the floor

type of 3D immersive environment Riot had envisioned.

was a challenge, but the LED floor from ROE Visual is easy to

With a team of team 40 artists and technicians, the complete

level and very precise, so we were able to make a perfect joint

setup proved to be a powerhouse. The visuals were made

between the walls and floor.”

using a modified version of the Unreal Engine. Riot claims

“This was a fantastic job to build, the LED panels from ROE

that the LED walls, consisting of over 900 LED panels,

Visual are fantastic to work with and their performance is

display visuals at 32K resolution and at 60 frames per second.

unrivaled”, stated Project Manager, Aron.

The total structure consists of a cube, with three backwalls

“ROE Visual products have been involved in many global

from ROE Visual BP2 LED panels, each measuring 17-metres

esports events, like the PUBG and International DOTA 2

wide and 4.5-metres high. The floor is 17 x 18-metres, using

Tournament”, commented Grace Kuo, Sales Director for ROE

812 Black Marble BM5 panels in total. To install and level

Visual. “We’re proud to be involved with these League of

the LED floor, a combination of two x two and two x three

Legends events, which are without a doubt the largest and

support frames was used.

most spectacular esports events happening. We’re thankful

Completing the setup were Game desks, built from BP2 as

for the fact that CT trusts our products to use them on such a

well, using 108 panels in total, including the corner panels,

prestigious project”.

BRAND: ROE Visual | INSTALLER: Creative Technology | WEBSITES: www.roevisual.com, www.ct-group.com

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Redefining the Stadium Experience

mondodr.com | mondostadia.com | mondodrawards.com/emea-apac | mondodrawards.com/americas | mondostadia-agora.com

15 EXTRA TIME

PRODUCT FOCUS 092 Christie 093 IA Stage

EVENT DIARY & VENUE TECH DIRECTORY 094 Venue Tech Directory 096 Conferences & Exhibitions

FULL TIME 098 Michael Short | Midstream Lighting

EXTRA TIME

Christie | CounterAct hristie recently announced the launch of the Christie CounterAct line of commercial UV disinfection products with patented Care222 far-UVC light technology for sport complexes, cinemas, theme parks, museums and other indoor spaces. The Christie fixture uses Ushio’s patented narrowband filtered Care222 excimer lamps that emit far-UVC 222nm light - the only UV technology shown to continuously and significantly reduce pathogens, like coronaviruses, that may also be used while people are present, when used in accordance with specified parameters. Mass production of the new Christie CounterAct fixture starts in January 2021.

Developed by Christie’s parent company, Ushio Inc., based on technology licensed from Columbia University, the revolutionary Care222 far-UVC, mercury-free excimer lamp includes a proprietary short pass filter that prevents the emission of longer wavelengths of UV light (230nm and higher) that are capable of penetrating human skin and eyes, an especially important feature that other 222nm and far-UVC products do not have.

It has been known for many years that UV light is a highly effective disinfectant that can reduce pathogens in indoor spaces.

Businesses and other institutions have long used germicidal UVC light to stop the spread of viruses. The main drawback with most UVC technology is that it uses a 254nm wavelength that can penetrate human skin and eyes, which means these

C

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germicidal lights can only be used when people are not present or while they’re wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) that protects the eyes and skin. These shortcomings constrain how these devices must be operated and limit their widespread use in occupied indoor spaces.

A study conducted by Kobe University published in August 2020 concludes that, due to its shorter wavelength, far-UVC 222nm light does not penetrate the skin and therefore may be used when humans are present.

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have also tested far-UVC 222nm light, and in particular its effect on aerosolised seasonal coronaviruses (that cause the common cold). A scientific paper published by this group in the journal Nature in June 2020 found that 99.9% of aerosolised seasonal coronaviruses (the cause of the common cold) were inactivated when exposed to far-UVC 222nm light in just 25 minutes.

These studies’ findings suggest that the filtered 222nm far-UVC light emitted by Care222 lamps in Christie’s CounterAct fixture, which can operate continuously even when people are present, offers a significant improvement over traditional manual cleaning alone, which requires professional cleaners, and the repeated use of harsh chemicals, in which the results are temporary.

www.christiedigital.com

IA Stage | SkyDeck kyDeck’s hybrid steel structural framing is engineered for very low weight-to-strength ratio. Its patented design makes it lighter than traditional tension wire grid systems, meaning less support steel and less cost overall. With a maximum point load of 300lbs and a live load of 20 psf, SkyDeck can support all the loudspeakers, lighting instruments, and rigging equipment you need, while serving as an interstitial floor for access.

Member sizes interact to form a lightweight, high strength framework. Framing has a slim 2″ profile that is strong and aesthetically pleasing. IA Stage also offers catwalk-rated SkyDeck II with a maximum point load of 300lbs and a live load of 50 psf.

Tripping and falling are of particular significance to anyone who works overhead. SkyDeck is designed to effectively eliminate that risk. It is physically impossible to fall through a SkyDeck.

The difference in height between the woven wire walking surface and the steel framing never exceeds 3/16″, practically eliminating trip hazards. Overhead crews can work confidently on a near-flush walking surface.

There are no exposed bolts or sharp edges on the grid system, minimising wear and tear on cables and even further mitigating trip hazards. Even though you cannot fall through a SkyDeck, they’re virtually transparent. There is no discernible loss of focus, signal, or energy when you direct light or sound through the woven surface.

Because SkyDeck is modular, it is easily configurable. These grids are designed for use in any area where unimpeded light, sound, or air flow is desired. There is no discernable loss of signal. Grid panels are custom manufactured to accommodate any building’s shape, and multiple sizes, shapes, and colors are available.

S

Individual panels can be removed or placed at varying elevations to suit each individual venue, allowing for more lighting positions and angles. Hinged panels with gas assisted openers are also available.

Panels are pre-built in IA Stage’s Central Florida shop before shipment, so the footprint for on-site storage is minimal, giving construction and installation teams more room to work. SkyDeck’s modular panels mean you can switch out individual panels rather than needing to replace the entire grid.

No ‘runner’ or sub-frame construction is required. Suspension hangers are available for all types of overhead structures. The grid panels connect to hangers and installation is complete.

SkyDeck’s unique design maximises cable life and strength. Wires are guided and supported within the low-profile frame so only horizontal force is ever applied to the end fittings, mitigating wear and tear on the cables and eliminating the need for re-tensioning throughout the life of the grid.

Every termination seat is machined so cables aren’t exposed to sharp edges, ensuring no bent or broken wires. End fittings are not exposed on the walking surface, unlike the standard threaded studs found on other tension wire grids, which can get stepped on, leading to bending and breaking of wire.

Each panel has its own wire system, which keeps the wires as tensioned properly at all times. This extends the wire durability.

On the off chance that you do need to make a repair, only one panel is affected, not the entire grid. Cables are easily repaired in situ with a hand-held swaging tool.

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VENUE TECH DIRECTORY

VENUE TECH DIRECTORY A closer look at some of the latest, state-of-the-art technology for sporting venues.

SIDEKICK SIDEKICK www.sidekickusa.com • • • •

•

Shortens time to install thick-cut natural turf.

Reduces instances of damaged natural turf by mechanical and human error.

Lowers the cost of labour.

Eliminates seams between natural turf, enhances recovery and playability, and ensures a softer and stronger playing surface.

Models available for John Deere, Kubota, Mahindra, and KIOTI tractors.

CS212L FULCRUM ACOUSTIC www.fulcrum-acoustic.com • • •

•

•

CV226 LIPSTICK CAMERA MARSHALL www.marshall-usa.com/cameras/ • • • • •

094

All-weather and ultra-durable (IP68) design.

Ultra-compact at 19.5mm (3/4-inch) x 62.5mm (2 ½-inch).

Up to 1920x1080p at 60fps (3GSDI), 1920x1080i and 1280x720p.

Remote adjust and match via CV-RCP from back in control room or truck.

Discrete in goal posts, nets, backboards, dugouts, backstops, coach booths.

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Low profile, dual 12-inch subcardioid subwoofer module intended for permanent installation in a wide range of venues.

The CS212L incorporates Fulcrum’s patented Passive Cardioid Technology to address excessive rear low frequency radiation.

Fulcrum’s passive cardioid technology does not require an additional amplifier channel or additional transducer to achieve its impressive low frequency directional control.

The subcardioid behavior is produced by a conceived acoustical circuit, which balances the position of the low frequency driver, the enclosure depth and volume, and specially constructed rear-mounted ports.

Fulcrum Acoustic’s TQ processing is an integral part of the CS212L design.

MKD1200 SERIES EAW www.eaw.com • •

• •

•

The MKD1294 and MKD1264 are three-way designs engineered to produce high output levels and outstanding fidelity.

Both models incorporate dual 12-inch low-frequency transducers with three-inch vented voice coils, and coaxial 3.5-inch voice coil midrange and 1.75-inch voice coil high-frequency compression drivers.

Nominal beamwidth of the MKD1294 is 90º horizontal x 45º vertical, while that of the MKD1264 is 60º horizontal x 45º vertical.

All models in the MKD Series employ EAW Core Technology including Beamwidth Matched Crossovers that eliminate polar irregularities in the crossover region.

Frequency response for the MKD1294 and MKD1264 ranges from 47 Hz to 20 kHz, and maximum SPL is 145 dB and 147 dB, respectively.

VX 2 DISGUISE www.disguise.one • • •

More power and flexibility, for truly immersive productions. vx 2 servers have been engineered to seamlessly playback lossless 10-bit 4K60 video content at higher quality and resolution than before.

Equipped with super-fast NVMe storage drives, a 12G capture card and dual 25GbE and 10GbE networking interfaces as standard, the vx 1 and vx 2 provide a solid platform for a multitude of use cases.

CS7P ADAMSON www.adamsonsystems.com • •

• • •

Ultra-compact, powered, intelligent point source enclosure.

All CS-Series loudspeakers feature on-board Class-D amplification, DSP, and Milan-ready (AVB) network connectivity, and integration with CS software and rack systems.

Versatile, outsize performance with a minimal footprint.

Voiced to pair seamlessly with the full range of Adamson loudspeakers, including the ultra-compact CS118 subwoofer.

Contains two symmetrically arrayed seven-inch low frequency transducers, and a three-inch high frequency compression driver mounted onto an Adamson waveguide, available as either 70° x 40° (HxV) or 100° x 50° (HxV), rotatable in increments of 90º.

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095

EVENT DIARY 2020/21

ISC Virtual Week 7th - 11th December, Online www.internationalsportsconvention.com

ALSD International 15th - 16th March, Liverpool, England www.alsdinternational.com

ISE 2021 1st - 4th June, Barcelona, Spain iseurope.org

SVG Summit Connect 14th - 17th December, Online www.thesvgsummit.com

Coliseum Summit Europe 24th - 25th March, Ascot, England www.coliseum-online.com

MONDO | STADIA presents AGORA June, Barcelona, Spain www.mondostadia-agora.com

ESSMA Spotlight 19th - 20th January, Online www.essma.eu

Prolight + Sound 13th - 16th April, Frankfurt, Germany www.pls.messefrankfurt.com

International Sports Convention 8th - 9th June, London, England www.internationalsportsconvention.com

MONDO | STADIA presents AGORA Online 23rd - 25th February www.mondostadia-agora.com

Football Innovation Forum 28th May, Istanbul, Turkey fif.worldfootballsummit.com

InfoComm 2021 12th - 18th June, Orlando, USA www.infocommshow.org

SPORTEL Monaco 22nd - 24th February, Monaco, France www.sportelmonaco.com

ESSMA Summit 2021 1st - 2nd June, Turin, Italy www.essma.eu

15 F ULL TIME MICHAEL SHORT | MIDSTREAM LIGHTING

How did Midstream’s partnership with England Athletics begin?

England Athletics was looking to build a group of partners to help them with their strategic vision of increasing standards and improving facilities across their 1,400 affiliated clubs.

They didn’t have a lighting partner, so we approached them. And from the very first meeting, it was obvious there was a perfect fit between us.

can achieve. That’s not all. They’ll also be able to take advantage of our lighting health checks, consultation services, advice on financial support and grants, plus lighting designs for their clubs – all for free.

Our core benefits, such as vastly cutting energy and maintenance costs, and future-proofing venues for years to come, will help them free up money to invest in athletes’ performance, too.

Improved lighting will also mean clubs can get more people participating all year round at all times of the day, including at night. And it’s been shown time and time before that better-quality club facilities help improve performance.

Why was that?

We don’t enter into partnerships lightly. We believe for them to work both organisations need to have values and goals that really align. That was definitely the case between England Athletics and us. We both have integrity as an important value – it’s our first. And a culture of learning and development is very close to both our hearts.

What will this mean for Midstream in return?

Obviously there will be potential business opportunities that develop through this partnership. But it means much more than that for us as a whole. As well as working on major sporting projects, we’ve got a great deal of experience working at the grassroots level. A lot of the team here have experience playing at that level, too. And for us, this partnership will allow us to work closely with an organisation that’s taking athletes from the grassroots right through to the Olympics.

To be able to support these clubs and see the results of the work we’ve done coming through is going to be so exciting and highly rewarding.

What will Midstream be bringing to England Athletics?

One of the objectives of this partnership is to educate and support all the England Athletics’ facilities across the country – from the grassroots to the elite. So, we’ll be offering the entire England Athletics community a host of webinars, in-person training, and supportive guides, so they can understand exactly what we as a team

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