Domo Broadcast Systems, Timeline TV and Formula E Technology have worked together to successfully deploy a brand new solution that allows for the distribution of 220 on-board cameras across all 22 cars in a single race.
The technology enables the transmission of multiple camera angles simultaneously or individually, with built-in switching, real-time over-air playback, and remote operator control of multiple cameras.
Eric Ernst, technology director at Formula E, explained: “Today’s audience is looking for a more immersive experience when it comes to watching racing. They are increasingly used to gaming and virtual reality experiences that place them in the driver’s seat. As a result, they’re no longer satisfied with seeing a race from behind the barriers, with the occasional, brief shot from inside a race car. We needed to continue to push the boundaries of what’s been done before and take our content offering to as yet unseen levels.
“Prior to the bespoke efforts of Timeline and Domo Broadcast, it wasn’t possible to cut between on-board cameras, go direct to air, or preview the coverage coming from multiple on-board cameras.”
The new system was introduced in January, using 1080P50 cameras that are capable of HDR. By the time of the Formula E race in Monaco in May, the team had managed to offer a complete on-board lap, cutting synchronously between 10 cameras — with no break-up.
Other improvements include an enhanced viewer experience through the T-forward camera — the camera providing the shot of the entire car from the roll-hood. It now has a 1-inch (2.5 cm) UHD sensor that can be panned left and right within the UHD image whilst live.
The new system has an on-board recorder that can record eight of the 10 car cameras. If a crash is missed or a camera not turned on, live replays can be delivered direct from the car, including the missing shots in real time into the programme. In addition, the FIA take all 13 live feeds, and if there is a crash or incident, Timeline’s production team can replay footage for them in a timely manner for review.
Once the transmission is decoded, all streams are sent back to London via a 17 21 10-7 stream. The control system extends from the circuit to the remote production gallery, enabling the production team in London access to the same interface and oversight that they would have at the circuit.
“The ability of the teams at Domo Broadcast, Timeline and the Formula E Technology department to work closely, share knowledge and put in the effort to create the bespoke solution has been key to our ability to enhance viewer engagement so significantly this year, particularly as we try to bring our fans closer to the action on the track,” said Aarti Dabas, chief media officer at Formula E.
“The achievements made by Domo Broadcast Systems, Timeline TV and Formula E Technology have set a new standard in sports coverage, particularly for sports involving multiple participants and locations, and necessitating UHD quality at high speeds,” added Mike Budge, broadcast unit director for Domo Broadcast Systems. “The ongoing commitment of Timeline and Domo Broadcast Systems to create future-proof solutions that can easily incorporate the latest technological advancements ensures that their work in this domain will continue to evolve and revolutionise the field.”
