Breaking the bounds of live sports broadcasting with 3D modelling

In the lead up to the highly anticipated Varsity event at The University of Salford, we are pleased to announce that we have made considerable progress in the development of our live sports broadcast production. The realisation of this production relies heavily on careful and thorough planning and preparation, and it is with great excitement that we offer an update on a vital aspect of the project: the location recce.

In the world of live broadcast production, every detail counts, from camera placement to lighting arrangements, and it can be difficult to effectively plan and execute these details without a comprehensive understanding of the location. That's why, in our preparation for Varsity, we decided to employ advanced 3D modelling technology to create a highly accurate representation of the venue. By utilising LiDAR scans, photos, and video tours, we were able to create a 3D model that not only gave us a detailed view of the space, but also provided us with a wealth of information that has made the planning process smoother and more efficient.

Location Recce

The location recce was a critical component of our preparation process, as it gave us an opportunity to thoroughly examine the venue, identify any potential challenges or limitations, and determine the necessary equipment and resources. With its small balcony and limited ground space in the large sports hall, the venue presented its own set of considerations, but with the help of our 3D model, we were able to work through these challenges and develop effective solutions ready for the broadcast.

Technology

The integration of 3D modeling technology has brought numerous benefits to our live broadcast production.

• Visualisation: By creating a 3D model, we are able to virtually walk through the venue and get a sense of the space, making it easier to plan camera positions, technical setups, and other aspects of the production. This can be especially helpful if we are working with a new location that we are not familiar with.

• Planning: A 3D model can help us plan the logistics of the production, including camera placement, lighting, and other technical considerations such as preparing for accurate lengths of cables and distances from power outlets.

• Communication: A 3D model can be a useful tool for communicating our plans to our team, including directors, producers, and other crew members. It can also be helpful for presenting our plans to clients or stakeholders.

• Accuracy: By creating a 3D model with accurate measurements, we can ensure that our plans are based on accurate data, rather than relying on estimates or guesses. This can help us avoid issues or challenges that might arise during the production.

For the 3D modelling process, we utilized LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology, which allowed us to capture the location in real-time while on site. This technology can be used with specialized 3D scanning equipment or with consumer devices like the iPad Pro, which has LiDAR technology built-in. The precise reference models created from the LiDAR scans were then used in Blender for further testing and research, providing us with a highly detailed view of the venue. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the implementation of 3D modelling technology has been a valuable investment for our live sports broadcast production. From planning and communication to accuracy and visualisation, it has provided us with the tools and information we need to ensure a smooth and successful event. We are confident that this investment will pay off in the long run and we look forward to sharing more updates with you as the event approaches.