Bench Talk

Keeping Fans Comfortable, Safe, and Connected

New Tech Tuesdays

Join Rudy Ramos for a weekly look at all things interesting, new, and noteworthy for design engineers.

Whether it’s a day at the ballpark or a long-awaited night seeing your favorite musician, fan experiences have been revolutionized over the past few decades. Last week, we explored some of the cutting-edge audio/visual and motor control systems that enable large-scale venues to fully immerse fans in the action. In this second part of our three-part NTT series on stadium technology, we look at the environmental controls and digital infrastructure that ensure fans' comfort, connectivity, and safety in large-scale venues.

The Comfort, Connectivity, and Safety Challenge

Managing the environment, connectivity, and safety of tens of thousands of fans is no small feat. From advanced climate control systems that maintain comfortable temperatures to robust Wi-Fi^® networks and advanced security, these technologies play a crucial role in the stadium experience.

HVAC Systems

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in stadiums are designed to handle vast spaces and large crowds. These systems ensure a consistent and comfortable temperature, regardless of external weather conditions.

Modern HVAC systems use advanced sensors and control algorithms to maintain optimal temperatures throughout the stadium. These systems can adjust airflow and temperature in different zones, ensuring comfort for all attendees. Proper ventilation is essential to prevent the buildup of heat and humidity, especially in densely packed areas. Ventilation systems work alongside HVAC systems to circulate fresh air and remove stale air from the stadium.

Air quality is another critical aspect, especially in enclosed stadiums. Advanced filtration systems remove contaminants from the air, providing a clean and healthy environment for fans.

Digital Infrastructure

A robust digital infrastructure is crucial for the seamless operation of modern stadiums. It supports everything from ticketing and concessions (Figure 1) to live streaming and fan engagement, ensuring smooth and enjoyable operations and fan experiences.

Figure 1: Robust digital infrastructure in modern stadiums helps fans be more connected to each other and helps them stay in their seats more, too, with concessions now able to come to them. (Source: Ilia Nesolenyi/stock.adobe.com; generated with AI)

Multi-Band Wi-Fi Networks

Providing strong and reliable Wi-Fi for thousands of attendees is a significant challenge. Modern stadiums utilize multi-band Wi-Fi networks, which offer multiple channels for different uses, such as fan connectivity, broadcast needs, and security communications. This ensures that all users have access to fast and stable internet connections. Additionally, bandwidth management is crucial to prevent network congestion. Advanced bandwidth management systems prioritize traffic, ensuring that critical services like security and broadcasting have the necessary resources while providing ample bandwidth for fans.

High-Density Wi-Fi Deployment

To manage the high number of users, stadiums deploy high-density Wi-Fi systems with numerous access points strategically placed throughout the venue. These systems are designed to handle peak usage times, ensuring that fans can share their experiences on social media, check scores, and use mobile apps without interruption.

Advanced Security Systems

Security is a priority in large venues, and facial recognition technology plays a crucial role in enhancing safety. These systems can quickly identify individuals, helping to prevent unauthorized access and manage crowds efficiently. Additionally, they streamline entry processes, reducing wait times and improving the overall fan experience.

Modern stadiums are equipped with extensive surveillance systems that cover every area of the venue. These systems, combined with real-time data analysis, enable quick response to any incidents, ensuring the safety of all attendees.

The Newest Products for Your Newest Designs^®

This week’s New Tech Tuesday features the STMicroelectronics VL53L4ED ToF high-accuracy proximity sensor. With its ability to measure distances up to 1,150mm and an 18° field of view, this sensor is ideal for applications in HVAC systems, temperature regulation, and air quality monitoring. Additionally, the VL53L4ED can also support advanced security systems, including surveillance and emergency response, by providing precise proximity measurements and ensuring reliable operation even in extreme temperature conditions.

Tuesday’s Takeaway

The technology behind environmental controls and the digital backbone of modern stadiums is essential to comfort, connectivity, and security. Advanced climate control systems that maintain comfortable temperatures, clean air, and proper ventilation, along with advanced Wi-Fi networks, facial recognition technology, and digital services, ensure that fans remain relaxed, connected, engaged, and safe throughout the event.

In the final NTT of this series, we will explore the behind-the-scenes logistics that make these events possible, including television broadcasts and instant replay systems.