Location: Melbourne, Australia
Application: Creative Solutions
The VuePix AO Digital Sign stood strong again this year as the iconic symbol of the Grand Slam.
Back in 2017, The P.A.People, who had worked with Tennis Australia on many events over the years, took up the challenge to create a 3m high three-dimensional digital logo, as part of the process of rebranding the Australian Open.
“Our solution was based on a stainless-steel space frame structure, similar to the construction of an airframe. Each of the 440 pieces of stainless steel was laser cut and folded from one of 230 separate patterns and then assembled in our workshop with a combination of bolts and rivets. “Chris Dodds – Managing Director – The P.A. People
Chris Dodds outlines the process: “Our solution was based on a stainless-steel space frame structure, similar to the construction of an airframe. Each of the 440 pieces of stainless steel was laser cut and folded from one of 230 separate patterns and then assembled in our workshop with a combination of bolts and rivets. The fabrication did not rely on a frame per se – rather, a combination of flat 3mm panels and lateral spokes or ribs provided the structural integrity required. We chose stainless steel to provide a durable and elegant surface for the logo over time – we felt that paint was simply not an option given its proposed deployment in public spaces.”
The side surfaces are a combination of grey tinted polycarbonate and a specially imported acrylic diffuser, selected to enhance the look of the 1,900 triple chip LED pixels that surround the body of the AO logo.
The 3.9mm pitch outdoor LED screen is accessible from the front of the unit for maintenance, while the server and interconnections are accessed through lockable rear hatches.
The assembled screen is some 3.2m high, almost 7m long and 850mm deep. It weighs over 2.5tonne. The system is designed to fit in its own 20’ High Cube shipping container, incorporates its own media server and sound system and is complete with its own stage.
“The P.A. People took a concept and brought it to life with an extraordinary feat of engineering. The AO installation became a cornerstone of our international brand roll out and it captivated our audiences with its sheer size and stunning imagery. The team at The P.A. People are to be commended for working with us on such a complex project in such a short timeframe; the evidence of its success is in the exposure the installation had during the tournament.“ Jo Juler- Head of Marketing-AO
