Robotics and the Future of Broadcast Studio Design
At the intersection of technology and creativity, broadcast studio design is rapidly evolving. The challenge for designers and producers is turning their innovative visions into efficient and functional studio spaces. Clickspring Design, an award-winning international design firm specializing in broadcast design, interior environments, and experiential events, embarked on an exciting challenge in 2020. Their mission was straightforward: design production environments that seamlessly blend visual aesthetics, functionality, and flexibility.
The Design Process and Technical Integration
The design process had to accommodate a range of complex demands, including the seamless integration of innovative technology to support a 360-degree shooting plan, all while preserving the storytelling integrity of the editorial teams. Moreover, the project had to find creative ways to accommodate program adjacencies within limited physical space. According to industry experts, the earlier that we can understand the systems that will drive the functionality of the production, the better. Early discussions enable us to make recommendations that prevent later scenic and engineering revisions.
During the development, the resulting design became a holistic realization of the client’s vision and a unique series of spaces that can function independently of each other. In terms of specific technology, the rail systems proved to be a game-changer when we began our creative workshops. The ceiling-mounted rail systems were carefully designed to minimize their impact on the set’s layout, allowing for greater flexibility and expanded shooting possibilities. The technical team had to take extreme care to understand the tight tolerances and unique paths that were planned.
Magical Exhibitions and Digital Twins
Magical exhibitions thrive on the seamless interweaving of content, media, light and movement. Digital twins are virtual models of physical spaces that are utilised for the planning and operation of complex exhibitions. To create digital twins, we plan, visualise, configure and distribute. We have realised digital twins for a wide range of contexts as shown in the following data:
| Project / Exhibition | Key Features | Technology Used |
|---|---|---|
| Camille Pissarro (Basel) | Virtual 3D model of the exhibition spaces with sounds and trigger zones. | Highly precise location tracking and Binaural sonics. |
| Wonders of Medicine (Novartis Pavillon) | Intelligent audio guide "Sofia" and acoustic information according to position. | Ultra-wideband technology (UWB) and IMU sensor. |
| Nichts (Museum of Communication) | Exhibition adapts to the visitor; audio content played according to behaviour. | Visitor batches recording paths and real-time information. |
| Multilingual Switzerland | Virtual 3D model of the exhibition rooms and three-dimensional sound images. | Mixed reality platform and high-precision location tracking. |
Our Creative Engineering Solutions
To support these immersive visitor experiences, we provide a variety of engineering solutions. These include:
- Kinetic Installations
- Light Installations
- Video Mapping
- Customised Screens
- Digital Twins
- Custom Camera Solutions
- Framework Interactive Books
Advanced Camera Motion Systems
Spidercam broadcast-quality robotic camera solutions are suspended from a cable-driven system to provide exceptional and immersive video. For XPression and Voyager customers in video, broadcast, and venue production, we offer unmatched design, workflow, and data integration expertise. Additionally, Camera Motion Systems (Pan/Tilt/Zoom) integrated broadcast cameras are essential for modern live events, sports broadcast, and esports.