[Official 2008 Game Design] New Technology Discussions

[David55]

Field Enhancement

As the webcasts and TV broadcasts become more common in FIRST events (more and more people are watching events on the internet), I think the video coverage of the field should be upgraded from the traditional 2 camera setup. What I am suggesting is integrating video cameras into the field (similar to the way sensors and the green light have been integrated into the field in previous years). This has happened several times in the past (for example having a camera inside the high goal in 2006 or having a camera inside the Rack in 2007 - as seen here). Obviously this generates new expenses for FIRST, but I think they are unsubstantial:
Camcorders can be bought relatively cheap (300-400$) which provide great video quality (especially for a webcast and even for TV standards). These cameras can be used year after year, which make it a one time expense. I also believe that most (if not all) video production companies at events can handle the switching with an extra camera.

I believe that having more video angles (or even on-robot video) will help make the game look a lot more interesting for people watching on the internet or on TV (especially people who have never heard of FIRST before).

(If this is not the right thread for this idea feel free to move it).