For those of you who aren't familiar with it, the Arena Project is an information gathering and data broadcasting system being performed by the Makitalo Research Center in Northern Sweden. They are basically wiring up a bunch of hockey players, taking vital signs, keeping track of stats, and broadcasting the information to the fans in the seats. I am pretty sure I am going to narrow down my thesis to this type of project, incorporating somthing for one of the sports teams here at SC. The project in Sweden took place about two years ago and was headed by Tommy Arngren. I just happened to stumble into some more information about it, and it looks like this system has also been tested with women's basketball and will move to soccer for its next trial run. All of this is taking place in Northern Sweden of course. Ericsson Erisoft and the CDI are cohorts in this little shindig. I am curious to know their plans for things over here in the states. Go here for the PDF on the basketball.
Posted by Mike at April 30, 2003 12:22 AMI looked at the arena project and I'm struck that it seems both inevitable and a reach. That is, something like this WILL be marketed to fans just because there is a capability, but I'd like to know what it is you think fans might want from this. Also, if you're considering hockey, plan to watch/record the Stanley Cup finals...think about interviewing fans, find out what they might want to add to their experience. I, for one, have no interest in an individual player's heart or breathing rate. I do want the goalie's eye view, or puck cam. I do want access to the rules (i.e. What was a diving penalty and how could they call it at the same time as a hooking penalty?! I was relieved when the sportscasters started debating it on the air...) Capacity is only one half of the equation, what is added to the experience beyond clutter?
Posted by: peggy at May 18, 2003 11:19 AM
And another from Pocketmultimedia:
"Enhanced Spectator Experience – What more can be asked than to have the ability to be on the green at a PGA event and view the tee shots on a PDA. Imagine following the leaders on the front nine while at the same time watching the finish of a charging contender on the 18th. At the track, follow your favorite driver as he fights his way through the pack on the backstretch while you are sitting near the finish line. Stadium action now becomes the ultimate experience with the ability to select a different angle to watch the action or view a controversial replay."
http://www.pocketmultimedia.com/Home_Page.asp
Posted by: sfisher at June 5, 2003 05:34 PM
A US approach to this from Scion Communications:
"Spectators access Scion SportsPaq™ features from mobile handheld devices such as the Compaq iPAQ or wireless web tablets. Up-close replays, league scores, and food or merchandise ordering can now be enjoyed directly from a stadium seat. No more missed highlights while waiting to buy a hot dog!
Teams can build stronger fan loyalty and game attendance by delivering improved convenience, and a truly unique and interactive live experience. New revenue can be generated from usage fees, device and content sponsorship, and increased merchandise, ticket and food sales."
http://www.scioncommunications.com/prod_sportspaq.htm
Posted by: sfisher at June 5, 2003 05:35 PM
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