30: Fabrication and AV Equipment

 

B A (JMC) (3-YDC), SEMESTER SYSTEM

SEMESTER –IV

SEC III: PUBLIC RELATIONS AND EVENT MANAGEMENT

Unit - 2: EVENT MANAGEMENT

LESSON – 30: Fabrication and AV equipment

 

Objective:

1. Know about Fabrication.
2. Learn about Audio Visual equipment.
3. Know the need and importance of Fabrication and AV equipment for events.
4. Understand experiential fabrication.
5. List out Fabrication and AV equipment required for various events.

Introduction:

Fabrication is the process of constructing products by combining standardized parts using various processes. It can be used to build a wide range of things such as houses or machine components. Some common fabrication methods include cutting, punching, welding, folding, machining, shearing and stamping. Fabrication is the process of making components, while assembly is a different part of the manufacturing process. Fabrication can be done on-site or in specialized workshops that have advanced machines and tools.  Fabrication is different from product design and assembly, which are related but separate fields. Event fabrication is the process of creating unique spaces for events and exhibitions, and there are many companies in almost all the Towns and Cities that provide this service. AV equipment, on the other hand, is devices that include both audio and visual elements. This can include anything that projects, processes or generates audio and visual effects like speakers, monitors or microphones.

In this lesson we will learn about categories of events like corporate, social and others, importance of fabrication, pre-fabrication, experiential fabrication and also fabrication and AV equipment that are required for organising outdoor and indoor events.

Origin and History of Fabrication

The history of fabrication, particularly metal fabrication, can be traced back thousands of years to ancient civilizations. Humans began working with metals like copper, gold, and silver in ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia, Egypt and the Indus Valley. Early humans used simple techniques like hammering to shape metals into tools and weapons. During the Bronze Age i.e. 2,300–700 BCE, humans invented metal pots and pans, chariots, swords and armor made from bronze. The Iron Age around 1,500 BCE saw the use of smelting processes to create weapons, armor and infrastructure from iron. In ancient Egypt, gold and silver workers used sheet metal fabrication to craft jewelry. In the late 15th century, famous artist and a polymath, Leonardo da Vinci designed a machine to roll lead for stained glass windows. Metal fabrication has become increasingly important since the Industrial Revolution.

Origin of Audio Visual equipment

The origins of AV technology can be traced back to the late 19th century and early 20^th century with the invention of the phonograph and the production of the first motion pictures. This breakthrough allowed for the recording and playback of sound, laying the groundwork for audio technology. One of the most famous and prolific inventors of all time, Thomas Alva Edison invented phonograph in 1877. This allowed for the recording and playback of sound. He exerted a tremendous influence on modern life, contributing inventions such as the incandescent light bulb, the motion picture camera, as well as improving the telegraph and telephone. The Lumière Brothers together with Thomas Edison pioneered the production of motion pictures in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As technology progressed, sound was added to movies, giving rise to the first "talkies". Colour video cameras were introduced in television studios in the 1950s. Camcorders and VHS (video home system) formatting were introduced in the 1970s. The digital revolution in audio-visual fields began in the 1980s. Other key developments in AV technology include the introduction of CRT (cathode ray tube) displays in 1897, launch of the first condenser microphone in 1916, introduction of modern speakers in 1924, development of acoustic technology for studio recording in 1950. Today, AV technology is used in a wide range of applications, including business collaboration and interactive shopping.

Importance of fabrication

For event management, fabrication is important because  (1) Fabrication can create custom-built setups that transform a venue into something special. (2) Fabrication teams can pay close attention to detail and use industry-leading technologies to create every element of an event and (3) Fabrication can help create a memorable experience for the audience. 

Categories of events:

Broadly events can be divided into three categories. They are Social, Corporate and Others. Social events are personal and informal gatherings and the focus is on building relationships and having fun. They are weddings, birthday parties, anniversaries, baby showers, house warming, community events, rallies etc.

Corporate events are professional and formal gatherings and their focus is on business objectives, networking and education. Examples are conferences, seminars, workshops, product launches, team building activities, trade shows, award ceremonies, exhibitions, open houses etc.

Other event categories include cultural events like festivals and concerts; sporting events like games and tournaments; educational events like graduations and lectures; political events like public meetings and debates; religious events like processions and ceremonies etc. Each of these types of events within these three broad categories of events has its unique goals, formats and requirements.

Whatever is the objective, every event needs one kind of fabrication or the other for comfort of attendees and ambience. Also, these events require some kind of AV equipment for better communication to the attendees as well as for recording the event.

Need of event Fabrication:

If one walks into an event, they should feel like they stepped into another world. That is the magic of event fabrication. It is all about crafting those cool, custom-built setups that transform a boring venue into an attractive one. Whether it is a big corporate bash or a private party, getting the lowdown on event fabrication can seriously push up the event game. So, what exactly is event fabrication? It includes everything from snazzy stage setups to bespoke furniture and even unique installations that all shall agree that the venue is good and beautiful.

The main ingredients of fabrication are (1) Dreaming: This is where the magic begins. It requires brainstorming and sketching out ideas that vibe with event’s theme. It is all about merging wild creativity with what is actually feasible (2) Pick and Build: Choosing the right stuff to build not just for looks but for keeping everything sturdy and be safe. Event fabricators are like the wizards of materials, be it wood, metal, or anything else that fits the bill and (3) Setting Up: The grand finale is getting all these cool pieces into the event space. It is about timing, precision, and making sure everything looks just as planned.

Why event managers bother with event fabrication is (1) Customization: It means that with event fabrication, one can tailor every little detail to make the venue feel like it was made just for the event. It is about creating a space that tells the story (2) Making the people talk: For companies, this stuff is gold for getting the people engaged with the brand. Imagine walking into a room and everything from the decor to the interactive booths drawing people and leaving their appreciation (3) Smart use of space: Event managers are ace at making the most out of any space. They build functional structures that manage crowds, keep things flowing smoothly, and make sure everyone is comfortable, without cramping the style (4) Another World: Fabrication can take a plain old room and turn it into anything. Dreaming of a starry night theme or a vintage ambience? Fabricators make that transformation happen, creating an immersive vibe that is a total escape from the everyday (5) Wow factor: This is what makes the event not just fun but memorable. Those unique and custom touches are what people remember and snap pictures of, spreading the word far beyond just the guests.

Therefore, event fabrication is not just about putting up some fancy decorations. It is about creating an entire experience. This is not just about impressing the guests; it is about making the event a landmark moment. While planning an event, it is a must to incorporate some kind of fabrication to add value to the event and make it unforgettable.

Difference between Fabrication and Manufacturing

Fabrication is the process of constructing products by combining typically standardized parts using one or more individual processes. For example, steel fabrication is the production of metal structures using a range of processes such as cutting, bending and assembling. Metal fabrication will often form a complete assembly made from smaller sub-assemblies for use with readily available standard sections. This is achieved with CAD (computer-aided designs) that are often programmed using CNC (computer numerical control) technology which communicates directly with machinery on the factory floor. By using these technologies, the quality standards of production are increased and higher quality assemblies are produced. This ensures a more accurate and quicker steel erection time on site, which is vital in high volume production, reducing the cost for the customer through better material utilization and faster assembly times.

Prefabrication is the process of making building parts in a factory or other manufacturing site and then transporting them to a construction site for assembly. It is often used in construction and civil engineering, and can have several benefits, including (1) Cost-effectiveness: Moving partial assemblies from a factory is often cheaper than moving pre-production resources to each site (2) Time savings: Modular structures can be constructed up to 50% faster than traditional construction and (3) Quality control: Factory tools can offer added quality assurance. Thus, prefabrication can be used for a variety of things, including almost all building elements, stages, tents, canopies, stalls, kiosks, stairways, makeshift toilets, side walls, and even prefabricated homes. 

Manufacturing, on the other hand, is the process of converting raw material into a finished product. Essentially, it is producing something from start to finish. The manufacturing sector involves large scale production with the use of machines, tools and chemical or biological processing. It is the course that raw materials have to undergo a process before being considered a final product.

These days, we hear about container homes and vendor stalls etc. Unlike prefab custom structures, these are not modular but before manufacturing, companies use the assembly line approach. Prefab structures are made to look like the originals while container alterations don’t give that appearance.

Fabricated Settings:

A set is an artificially constructed scenery used in Theatre as well as Film making and Television productions. In Film making and in production of TV programmes, there are many reasons to build and use settings. This also require fabrication of several things. Movie sets are temporary structures that are built to represent real buildings or scenes, but they are usually built as minimally as possible to achieve the desired effect. Movie sets are often made from cheap and quick-to-construct materials like painted plywood, polystyrene and plaster. These materials can give the illusion of stronger materials like stone, marble, wood, and brick. The set construction process involves designing and building the physical space, dressing it with props and furniture, and creating the final look and feel of the scene. Other popular set design materials include GRG (glass-reinforced gypsum) and Jesmonite. Many movie sets are demolished immediately after filming, but some are left in place to be used for future films. So movie sets when fabricated may represent real buildings but they are typically built to get the desired effect. When it comes to building materials, what appears on-screen as stone, marble, wood and brick are materials like painted plywood, polystyrene and plaster.

Experiential Fabrication

Experiential event fabrication is the creation and strategic acquisition of physical assets that support immersive brand experiences such as exhibits, trade shows, and mobile tours. The assets can include elements of any material or dimension, spanning expert-engineered supporting structures, modular rentals, innovative graphics, custom paint, LED (light emitting diode) video walls and more. With experiential fabrication, traditional fabrication methods are enhanced and complemented with the most advanced, industry-leading design, creation, and manufacturing processes. Experiential fabrication services are comprehensive, innovative, and creative. They use any and all means necessary to bring every vision to life.  

The components of experiential fabrication include the infrastructure, experience, skill, and expertise to develop and create experiential events. A skilled engineering team is critical for the success of the support systems and structures of experiential exhibition. The team is responsible for developing the technical solutions for executing the aesthetics and functionality of event and creating the processes for smooth assembly and deconstruction. Experiential fabrication relies heavily on a versatile and the team to manage and execute the creation, building, and assembly of event with unmatched attention to detail. The best fabrication teams provide full-service capabilities that include custom, modular, and rental solutions. Graphics production is an integral part of experiential fabrication. Events typically require displays and marketing collateral to showcase the brand. The best graphic production specialists are innovative and agile, customize processes to meet the unique needs of brand, and successfully convey the brand’s message. Event technologies and experiential fabrication go hand-in-hand. In order to turn experiential event’s dream into a reality, a team of experts is needed to provide AV rental, testing and quality assurance, AV integration and programming, on-sight technical supervision, and access to AV partners worldwide.  

Benefits of experiential event fabrication are that (1) The capabilities of the best experiential fabrication teams are extensive, varied, and highly skilled. (2) With attention to detail and industry-leading technologies, every element, from the floor plan and architectural structure to the smallest decorative element, are carefully created. (3) It is a dynamic approach that brings dynamic visions to life. (4) It helps brands increase awareness by providing the infrastructure to authentically and optimally communicate messages that resonate with audiences.  (5) It enables companies to showcase their brand in the most favorable light and make a lasting positive impact and (6) Experiential fabrication strategies are responsible for creating multiple positive touchpoints that generate leads and inspire powerful word-of-mouth marketing. 

Audio Visual Equipment:

AV equipment or Audio Visual equipment constitute electronic devices that create audio and visual experiences to enhance an event’s experience. AV equipment can be used to create backdrops and settings and ensure communication is delivered effectively to large audiences.
Here are some examples of AV equipment: 

1. Audio equipment: Microphones, speakers, mixers, amplifiers, CD players, tape recorders, headphones, and radio receivers. 
2. Visual equipment: Projectors, screens, touchscreens, digital whiteboards, video cameras, audience response systems and video walls. 
3. Lighting equipment: Stage lights to enhance visibility and ambiance and other decorative lighting. 

Effective AV system integration involves seamlessly coordinating these various components to create a cohesive and impactful event. The specific equipment needed depends on the type and size of the event. 

Importance of AV equipment

Audio-visual equipment plays a critical role in event planning, creating memorable experiences for attendees and ensuring events run smoothly. AV equipment can help with (1) High-quality sound systems to ensure clear communication for large groups and hybrid events. (2) AV equipment like videos and slideshows can engage, captivate the audiences and interactive technologies can foster participation. (3) AV equipment can enhance presentations and help convey complicated messages. (4) The right AV setup can create a lasting impression and leave attendees resonating with the event long after it is over. (5) Digital signage can help guests navigate the event. (6) Lighting consoles can help technicians create specific moods and highlight speakers or areas or even the audience. (7) Strong visuals and audio can enhance production value and positively impact the success of an event and (8) Good event AV supplies can give a polished look and professional touch.

AV equipment for Communication

AV equipment can improve communication by combining visual and auditory elements to make information easier to understand and more memorable. It can also help stimulate multiple senses, which can improve information retention. Audio-visual equipment can help improve communication in a variety of settings say for example in meetings, events in theatres, in playgrounds, rallies, and even in classrooms.

In meetings, AV equipment can help improve communication by allowing participants to see and hear each other, even if they are not in the same location. Video conferencing, multimedia, and other tools can help participants interact face-to-face, which can lead to better understanding and more productive discussions. 

In events, AV equipment can help enhance the experience for event attendees by ensuring clear communication and engaging the audience. For example, interactive displays and audience response systems can make attendees active participants in the event. 

In Classrooms, AV equipment can help simplify staff training by making it easier for teachers to prepare presentations and share them with students. For example, teachers can prepare lesson notes at home and export them to an interactive whiteboard where they can be edited and emphasized on. 

What could go wrong?

What happens if there is no AV equipment for the event? Several things can happen that can seriously impact the objective and overall mission. Technology is not totally failsafe, so some things just can’t prevent even with the world’s highest production budget. One of the most common failures within an AV event is audio related. Feedback can be an AV enthusiast’s nightmare because it has such a serious impact on audience retention and enjoyment.

Fabrication and AV equipment requirements

Events are organised both outdoors and indoors. Fabrication requirements for outdoor and indoor events differ due to varying environmental conditions, spatial constraints and audience interactions. Here is a breakdown of key considerations.

Outdoor events: (1) Weather resistance: Materials and structures must withstand wind, rain, sun and temperature fluctuations (2) Durability: Fabricated elements should be robust to handle outdoor conditions and potential rough handling (3) Portability: Easy transportation and setup are crucial for outdoor events (4) Anchoring: Secure anchoring systems are necessary to prevent structures from toppling or shifting (5) Visibility: Fabricated elements should be visible from a distance considering lighting and surroundings (6) Safety: Ensure compliance with safety regulations, such as fire codes and accessibility standards.

Indoor events: (1) Spatial constraints: Fabricated elements must fit within venue dimensions, considering ceiling height, doorways and hallways. (2) Lighting: Design with indoor lighting conditions in mind, using material that complement or incorporate lighting effects (3) Interactivity: Indoor events often encourage audience engagement, so fabricated elements should facilitate interaction (4) Branding: Indoor events provide opportunities for immersive branding experiences through fabricated environments (5) Logistics: Consider ease of transportation, set up and teardown within the venue (6) Power supply: Ensure access to power sources for fabricated elements requiring electricity.

Common fabrication requirements for both outdoor and indoor events are (1) Branding and theming (2) Signage and wayfinding (3) Stage design and construction (4) Exhibition booth fabrication (5) Props and set dressing (6) Interactive installations (7) Special effects i.e. lighting, sound and pyrotechnics and (8) Accessibility and other compliances.

AV requirements for outdoor and indoor events differ due to varying environmental conditions, audience sizes and presentation needs. Here is a breakdown of key considerations.

For Outdoor Events: (1) Weather resistant equipment (2) High brightness displays for sunlight visibility (3) Outdoor rated speakers and amplifiers (4) Wireless microphone systems for flexibility (5) Generators or redundant power sources (6) Climate controlled enclosures for sensitive equipment (7) Durable cabling and connectors (8) Backup systems for critical components.

For Indoor Events: (1) High definition displays and projectors (2) Professional sound systems with clear audio (3) Wired or wireless microphone systems (4) Lighting control systems for ambiance and presentation (5) Stable power supply and backup systems (6) Acoustic treatment for optimal sound quality (7) Integration with venues existing AV structure and (8) Support for various file formats and playback sources.

Common AV requirements for both outdoor and indoor events are (1) Presentation screens and displays (2) Sound systems and speakers (3) Microphones and audio mixing consoles (4) Lighting systems and control boards (5) Video playback and recording equipment (6) Networking and internet connectivity (7) Power distribution and backup systems and (8) Technical support and staffing

By understanding these Fabrication and AV requirements Event Managers and Fabricators can create effective and engaging event environments that meet client objectives and audience expectations.

Summary:

Fabrication is the process of constructing products by combining standardized parts using various processes and can be used to build a wide range of things necessary for organising events. Fabrication can be done on-site or in specialized workshops that have advanced machines and tools. Event fabrication is the process of creating unique spaces for events and exhibitions, and there are many companies in almost all the Towns and Cities that provide this service. 

Corporate events are conferences, trade shows, seminars, team building events, company party, product or service launch, press conference, press tour, exhibitions, open house, CSR activities and Non corporate that is Social events are weddings, birth anniversaries, marriage anniversaries, fairs, festivals, exhibitions, charity events, sports & games, fashion shows, rallies to name a few, invariably need a venue, fabrication of stage or pavilion and roof and the AV equipment.

Out door or indoors, fabrication offers custom made solutions. It means that every element of a structure be it a stage or a roof it shall be tailored to meet the exact specifications of the event and venue.

The right audio-visual setup can significantly influence the success of an event. High-quality sound and visuals ensure that presentations are clear and engaging, which can leave a lasting impression on the audience. Poor AV quality, on the other hand, can detract from the event's impact and message.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. What do you understand by fabrication?
2. What is meant by AV equipment?
3. Why is fabrication important for event management?
4. How AV equipment can improve communication?
5. List out the equipment generally needed for organising an event.

Model Answers to FAQs:

1. Fabrication is the process of constructing products by combining standardized parts using various processes. It can be used to build a wide range of things such as houses or machine components. Some common fabrication methods include: cutting, punching, welding, folding, machining, shearing and stamping. Fabrication is different from assembly operations, which are a part of manufacturing. Fabrication is the process of making components, while assembly is a different part of the manufacturing process. Fabrication can be done on-site or in specialized workshops that have advanced machines and tools.  Fabrication is different from product design and assembly, which are related but separate fields.  
2. Audio Visual Equipment constitute electronic devices that create audio and visual experiences to enhance an event’s experience. It can be used to create backdrops and settings, and ensure communication is delivered effectively to large audiences. Examples of AV equipment are Audio equipment like microphones, speakers, amplifiers, CD players etc.; Visual equipment like Projectors, screens, digital white board, cameras, video cameras etc. and Lighting equipment include stage lights and other lighting system at the venue of the event. The specific equipment needed depends on the type and size of the event.
3. For event management, fabrication is important because it can help create a memorable experience for the audience and transform a venue into something special. Here are some ways that fabrication can be important for event management. (1) Fabrication can create custom-built setups that transform a venue into something special. (2) Fabrication teams can pay close attention to detail and use industry-leading technologies to create every element of an event and (3) Fabrication can help create a memorable experience for the audience.
4. AV equipment can improve communication by combining visual and auditory elements to make information easier to understand and more memorable. It can also help stimulate multiple senses, which can improve information retention. Audio-visual (AV) equipment can help improve communication in a variety of settings say for example in meetings, in events, and in classrooms. In meetings, AV equipment can help improve communication by allowing participants to see and hear each other, even if they're not in the same location. In events, AV equipment can help enhance the experience for event attendees by ensuring clear communication and engaging the audience. 
5. The AV equipment generally needed for an event are - Audio equipment: Microphones, speakers, mixers, amplifiers, CD players, tape recorders, headphones, and radio receivers. Visual equipment: Projectors, screens, touchscreens, digital whiteboards, video cameras, audience response systems and video walls. Lighting equipment: Stage lights to enhance visibility and ambiance. Effective AV system integration involves seamlessly coordinating these various components to create a cohesive and impactful event. The specific equipment needed depends on the type and size of the event. 

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):

1. _____________is the process of creating unique spaces for events.

a.       Manufacturing

b.      Constructing

c.       Assembly

d.      Fabrication

2. AV equipment is devices that include ________ & ________ elements.

a.       audio & visual

b.      audio & virtual

c.       audial & viable

d.      available & visible

3. The _____________ was invented by Thomas Alva Edison in 1877

a.       Videography

b.      Telegraph

c.       Phonograph

d.      Photography

4. Metal fabrication has become increasingly important since the ________ Revolution.

a.       French

b.      Industrial

c.       Green

d.      Information

5. ___________ is the process of converting raw material into a finished product.

a.       Welding

b.      Fabrication

c.       Assembling

d.      Manufacturing

 

Key to MCQs: 1 (d), 2 (a), 3 (c), 4 (b), 5 (d)

 

Glossary:

Fabrication: It refers to the act of creating or making something, especially by combining different parts or materials for holding an event.

Pre-fabrication: Process of manufacturing or assembling components, modules or entire structures in a factory or workshop before transporting them to a construction site for assembly or installation.

AV equipment: Devices used to create, display and transmit audio and visual content that includes display devices, sound equipment, video equipment, control & processing equipment, connectivity & accessories.

Corporate event: An event of gathering or meeting organised by a company for its employees, clients, or stakeholders and used for various purposes like conferences, meetings, workshops, seminars, product launches, trade shows, networking events, team building activities, award ceremonies, holiday parties

Non-corporate events: They are social gatherings, functions or activities that are not related to a business or company. These events are often personal, social or community based like weddings, receptions, birthdays, anniversaries, community festivals, fairs, charity events, religious ceremonies, retirements etc.

Graphics: They refer to visual elements used to communicate information, express ideas or create aesthetic appeal. They include images, charts and graphs, diagrams and infographics, logos and icons, animations and motion graphics, maps and data visualisations etc.

Phonograph: Known as record player or gramophone. It is a device used to play sound recordings made on flat discs, known as records or phonographs records.

Video walls: These are large screens composed of multiple LED panels connected together to form a single display. These are used for various applications like live events, digital signage, public displays etc

LED: Light Emitting Diode. It is a type of semiconductor device that emits light when an electric current passes through it. LEDs are used in a wide range of applications for lighting, displays, electronics and especially Events for stage and studio lighting.

Settings: Usually for shootings of cinema or TV serials for creating various environments or locations where photography or filmmaking takes place. For example, studios, outdoor locations, indoor locations, green screens, exteriors, interiors etc

Key words: Events, Indoors, Outdoors, Fabrication, Audio-visual, Pre-fabrication, Manufacturing, Assembling, Corporate, Sets,

 

Y. BABJI

Editor, Public Relations Voice

Academic Counsellor, Public Relations (since 1989)

AP Open University/Dr BR Ambedkar Open University