Case Study

The Client

About United Center

Located in Chicago, Illinois, the United Center is an iconic arena and the premier home venue for the Chicago Bulls and the Chicago Blackhawks. Renowned for its rich sporting heritage, the United Center extends beyond athletics to host various concerts and live events. Its dynamic ambiance and state-of-the-art facilities draw audiences from across the globe, offering a compelling blend of sports and entertainment.

About FanDuel

FanDuel is a leading sports-tech company dedicated to delivering impressive gaming experiences and redefining fan engagement through its innovative platforms and immersive venues. From sports betting and daily fantasy sports to advanced deposit wagering and media/TV offerings, FanDuel remains committed to innovation and excellence in the sports entertainment industry.

The Challenge

Bringing a fresh entertainment experience to the United Center posed a complex challenge for FanDuel and the arena’s management team. Their goal was clear: merge live sports excitement with captivating entertainment, creating an unforgettable experience for fans through a state-of-the-art audio-video system featuring a prominent digital signage display.

FanDuel and the United Center undertook significant architectural changes to accommodate the desired AV solutions. This transformation included converting the venue into a two-story space by cutting out a portion of the ceiling and integrating a new stairwell. The new mezzanine created a cohesive, dual-level environment that housed the expansive AV system and enhanced fan engagement.

Drawing on their successful collaborations, FanDuel trusted Solutionz, Inc. to navigate spatial and structural challenges. As FanDuel's commercial AV integrator, Solutionz embarked on a journey to design a system that met technical specifications and seamlessly integrated with the arena’s ambiance. To address structural modifications and custom design elements, Solutionz worked closely with manufacturers to implement an AV system that would captivate audiences while ensuring operational efficiency and compliance.
Transforming the United Center into a dynamic two-story sportsbook lounge presented challenges that demanded innovative solutions and coordination. Solutionz, Inc. navigated these challenges with expertise and determination, from addressing structural modifications to managing unforeseen site conditions.

Jay Pomante, VP of Engineering at Solutionz, Inc., recalled the complexities of integrating the main LED display into the concrete structure. "The main challenge was fitting the LED display precisely within the existing architectural framework," Pomante explained. "We encountered electrical conduits and other obstacles not initially accounted for in the plans, requiring continuous adjustments and on-site measurements."

This adaptive approach extended to close coordination with the construction team, ensuring precise alignment of the mounting system despite these challenges. Pomante emphasized the importance of thorough planning, frequent site visits, and practical problem-solving in overcoming site-specific hurdles.

The Approach

Solutionz’s approach was multifaceted, integrating strategic planning, inventive design, and a mindful understanding of fan preferences to craft an impactful audio-video system. Extending beyond mere technology installation, the project aimed to create memorable experiences resonating with Chicago's passionate sports community. Emphasizing creativity, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, the approach leveraged the strengths of each manufacturing partner.

Partnering with trusted industry leaders Barco and Draper, Inc., Solutionz focused on redefining the space and delivering outstanding sports entertainment experiences. The sportsbook lounge transformed into a dynamic hub of excitement and interaction through meticulous design and technological innovation, captivating fans and elevating their experiences to unprecedented levels.

Stephen McDonnell, Product Director of Retail Sportsbook at FanDuel, shared, "The unique feature of our sports bar is the two-story video wall. It's where people come to watch their live games, and it's the showpiece of the realm. Our partnership with Solutionz, Barco, and Draper has truly delivered a world-class experience.”

The Solution

Collaborating closely with FanDuel and the United Center, Solutionz delivered an audio-video system that exceeded expectations. The project comprised a variety of high-performance system components working together seamlessly.

Immersive Visual Experience

A spectacular 29-foot Barco dvLED video wall stands out, spanning two levels. Enhanced by strategically placed audio speakers, it creates an immersive and captivating atmosphere, offering visitors an unparalleled viewing experience from every vantage point.

Innovative Design Solutions

Addressing the architectural challenges of the United Center, Solutionz deployed innovative design solutions that transformed a single-story space into a dynamic two-story sportsbook lounge. This adaptive approach enhances functionality while maintaining aesthetic integrity, ensuring a compelling guest experience.

Continuous Operational Excellence

Going beyond installation, Solutionz provides ongoing support to maintain the AV systems at the FanDuel Sportsbook Lounge's peak performance and operational efficiency. Their proactive maintenance and rapid-response support model guarantees uninterrupted service during critical game days and high-energy events, reinforcing the venue's reputation as a premier entertainment destination.

AV Technology Implemented

29-foot wide Video Wall

Barco dvLED Solutions

At the heart of the sportsbook lounge at the United Center stands the eye-catching Barco dvLED video wall, which spans two stories and is designed to deliver an unparalleled visual experience. Known for its high-resolution displays and vibrant color reproduction, the Barco dvLED technology ensures every fan can enjoy clear and vivid visuals, no matter where they are seated.

Jay Pomante highlights the significance of choosing Barco, "Their commitment to quality and innovative solutions shows in their end-to-end solutions from image processing and switching to DVLED modules and everything in between."

“This project exemplifies Barco's vision to develop innovative solutions in partnership with industry leaders like Solutionz,” said Mike Reilly, Regional Sales Manager at Barco. “By utilizing the advanced XT LED solution and three of our powerful E2 for video signal distribution, we achieved superior image quality and flawless integration, guaranteeing an optimal viewing experience for the sports fanatics at FanDuel’s.”

Barco XT1.5 DVLED for the Main Video Wall

XT1.2 for the VIP Video Wall

3- Barco E2 processors for Image Processing

Draper, Inc.’s Custom Mounting Solutions

The mounting interface supporting the Barco dvLED video wall is Draper, Inc.'s Foundation® Mount System. However, due to the complexity of the walls, Draper also had to create a separate standing structure to support the weight of the mounting system and LEDs. Renowned for their robustness and precision in AV installations, Draper's mounting solutions were pivotal in ensuring the project's success.

Grant Wylie, Director of AVMS Product Management at Draper, Inc., detailed the complexities handled during installation. "Our team navigated through existing concrete structures, rebar, and intricate electrical conduits," Wylie elaborates. "While we utilized the standardized Foundation mount as the LED mounting interface, due to the obstacles we also designed, manufactured and installed a custom floor standing structure as the backbone to mount the Foundation to. Draper's custom mounting solutions not only ensured near-perfect alignment and stability but also seamlessly integrated with the architectural aesthetics of the sportsbook lounge."

Stephen McDonnell, Director of Products for Retail Sportsbook at FanDuel, emphasized Draper's pivotal role in the project's success. "Draper collaborated closely with our design and engineering teams," McDonnell notes. "Their custom standing structure provided structural support while their Foundation® Mount System contributed to creating a seamless, immersive viewing experience for our customers. The result is a flat, seamless experience for the customer. Kudos to Draper for that because, without that quality mount sitting in behind, we would not get that seamless experience."

With Solutionz, Inc.’s expert AV system design, the collaboration between Barco and Draper, Inc. has redefined AV integration, transforming the United Center's sportsbook lounge into a premier destination celebrated for its stunning visual displays and extraordinary customer experience.

Draper, Inc. Mount System

Audio Solutions

The audio experience at the United Center's sportsbook lounge is ingeniously enhanced by custom sound solutions designed to overcome architectural challenges. Jay Pomante highlights the technical innovations behind these enhancements.

"The two-story LED display posed a unique challenge," Pomante explains. "To ensure optimal audio quality, we integrated steerable drivers into custom sound bars. These drivers are precisely aimed towards seating areas below the mezzanine, delivering clear and impactful sound throughout the lounge."

This innovative approach integrates seamlessly with the lounge's design, leveraging Biamp's Tesira platform for advanced audio processing. Innovox's custom sound bars enhance audio coverage for seating areas, ensuring a superior audiovisual experience without compromise. Together, these solutions elevate the visitor experience, setting a new standard for audio excellence in a sportsbook environments.

AV Support Services

FanDuel has partnered with Solutionz, Inc. to provide ongoing AV support and maintenance for the sportsbook lounge at the United Center. Emphasizing maximum uptime and reliability, Solutionz ensures that the AV technology operates seamlessly during crucial game days and high-energy events.

Jim Miner, Vice President of Solutionz's Northeast region, elaborates on their steadfast approach: “Nationally, our support model hinges on swift responses and turnaround times, no matter the hour. Our help desk is pivotal in sustaining operational efficiency, from concerts to sports entertainment.”

The Results

Completing the FanDuel Sportsbook Lounge at the United Center marks a new chapter in Chicago sports entertainment. It has become a destination where fans fully immerse themselves in the thrill of the game, surrounded by cutting-edge technology and exceptional hospitality. As fans gather to cheer on their teams, the lounge is a testament to innovation and collaboration, taking the sports experience to a new level.

Stephen McDonnell, Director of Products for Retail Sportsbook at FanDuel, emphasized the pivotal role of Solutionz's adaptive strategy. "The project required transforming a single-story space into a two-story venue, seamlessly integrating AV technology while enhancing the fan experience," McDonnell noted. "Solutionz's collaborative efforts ensured every detail, from the stairwell installation to the LED display's flawless integration, met our vision for a premier entertainment destination."

“The Solutionz team was incredible from the outset. From our initial meetings at the United Center and FanDuel Sportsbook Lounge, they consistently delivered exceptional results that aligned perfectly with our vision.”

Stephen McDonnell

PRODUCT DIRECTOR, RETAIL SPORTSBOOK AT FANDUEL

Enhancing the FanDuel Sports Experience at the United Center

See how Solutionz, Inc. partnered with Barco and Draper, Inc. to upgrade the AV technology at FanDuel’s United Center Sportsbook Lounge.