Idea: Projected Scoreboard

Problem:

Your rink/arena/court has a small budget and an aging scoreboard. It’s going to cost upwards of $10,000 to replace it.

Solution:

A projector connected to a small-form PC running a custom Linux setup – it recovers from power failures and other issues automatically. Maybe a small UPS for short power failures.

The PC connects to your arena’s wifi (or runs it’s own wireless network). It has a web server running a single web application that displays a scoreboard, with protected access to manage the scoreboard.

Any device on the same network with a modern web browser could connect to the web server to view the scoreboard and sign in to manage it. For example, the timekeeper could have a laptop, tablet or smart-phone and control the scoreboard.

The scoreboard display would be crisp and clear, with customizable styles and colours. Could connect to the PA system for horn and other audio. Could be used to display banner or video ads during intermissions. Internet-connected units could publish scores on webpages via a widget or API.

Need a no-hassle installation, equipment that runs a long time without issues, and a simple and intuitive interface for setup, sign in and management.

Hurdles:

  1. Humidity, temperature, and dust in the arena could be a problem for the equipment.
  2. Will the projection be visible enough in well lit arenas? How many lumens do we need? Do we need a screen or just a white wall?
  3. Protecting the ceiling-mounted equipment from pucks/balls/etc.
  4. Installation position, projection area, bulb life, screen burn.

Costs:

  • Projector: $500-$2500
  • PC: $200

Steps:

  1. Test a projector in an arena.
  2. Source and cost equipment.