Integrating Court Environments NEW ZEALAND PARLIAMENT Sound and Associated Systems in the Debating Chamber DRAFT Project Staging Report Document Details Date Doc No Purpose of Issue 21/05/07 v2 Draft for comment Author RLG Checked MDH Adelaide 18 Gulfview Rd Blackwood, SA 5051 PO Box 324 Torrens Pk 5062 Tel +61 (8) 8370 0222 Melbourne Suite 1B, 1 Cookson Street Camberwell, VIC 3124 PO Box 364 Mont Albert 3127 Tel +61 (3) 9882 1700 Sydney 6 Cary St Leichhardt NSW 2040 PO Box 205 Summer Hill 2130 Tel +61 (2) 9568 4684 Darwin 17-19 Lindsay St Darwin NT 0800 Tel +61 (8) 8981 2811 ICE Design Australia Pty Ltd ACN 081 909 855
Table of Contents 1 Introduction 1 2 Stage 1 Package 2 2.1 Audio Contractor 2 2.1.1 Scope of Work (Part A) 2 2.1.2 Scope of Work (Part B) 3 2.1.3 Contractor Selection 3 2.1.4 Estimate of Cost 3 2.2 Network Contractor 4 2.2.1 Scope of work 4 2.2.2 Contractor Selection 4 2.2.3 Hardware Cost 4 2.3 ICE Design Responsibilities 4 2.4 Programme 4 3 Stage 2 Package Control System and Integration Works 5 3.1 Audio Visual Contractor 5 3.1.1 Equipment List 5 3.1.2 Contractor 5 3.2 Other Works 6 3.3 ICE Design Responsibilities 6 3.4 Programme 6 4 Stage 3 Package Sound Reinforcement System 6 4.1 Audio Contractor 6 4.1.1 Scope of Work 6 4.1.2 Equipment List 7 4.1.3 Contractor 7 4.1.4 ICE Design Responsibilities 7 4.1.5 Programme 7 5 ICE Design - Other Tasks 7 5.1 Integration 7 5.2 Preliminary Works 8 5.3 Simultaneous Interpretation 8 5.4 Hansard Reporting System 8 5.5 Microphone Testing and Selection 8 5.6 Banquet Hall 9 5.7 Theatrette 9 5.8 Committee Rooms 9
1 Introduction The Parliamentary Chamber audio system is a critical system in the operation of the New Zealand Parliament. The audio system provides signals for the Chamber audio reinforcement, Hansard Recording, broadcasting and in-house audio streaming and various other uses. Whilst the replacement of the audio system is seen as crucial, it is also critical that Parliament not be without the services of an audio system during the replacement process. This document presents our recommended approach for the implementation of the new audio system and is based on the outcome of discussions with Richard Elam and Warren Biddington during the visit by Mark Hanson and Rod Louey-Gung on the 9th to 11th May 2007. The following key requirements for the implementation process have been identified: To progressively switch over fully tested and stakeholder-approved systems (eg Hansard recording feeds) prior to decommissioning the equivalent function on the old system To programme as many progressively staged works as possible prior to the summer recess and reduce the scale and complexity of works to occur in this short period. To engage the current maintainers of the audio system in the design and implementation process to: ensure the subtleties of the existing system and its operational requirements are fully understood by the design team, and impart ownership of and responsibility for the new system There is also a strong requirement to ensure that the Stages define readily identifiable packages of work that can be readily delineated for ongoing maintenance and support. To this end we propose (currently) a three stage Contractor implementation process. Page 1
2 Stage 1 Package Infrastructure The aim of this package is to provide a complete duplicate audio processing system that can be developed in parallel with the existing system. Specifically, the following tasks are proposed: provide duplicate outputs of each existing microphone in the Chamber using temporary microphone splitters supply and fit a new digital audio signal processing system interface the existing push button control panel to the new system, to control microphone selection on the new system interface to the new dedicated LAN system for control and digital audio distribution. 2.1 Audio Contractor 2.1.1 Scope of Work (Part A) The contractor shall undertake the following Scope of Work: Supply of the following equipment: Microphone Splitters Biamp Audia Associated Cabling UPS Installation: Microphone splitters in custom rack Audia Flex units in existing rack Connect existing microphones to the splitter inputs Connect the direct outputs to the Audia Flex Connect transformer isolated outputs to the existing Murray preamps in the original order, check gain settings to compensate for any transformer losses Interface the existing push button controller to the Audia systems either via serial or contact closure Connection to LAN switches (by others) Relocate the existing amplifier rack to the outside of the existing cabinet space. Work with Parliamentary Services to enclose the rack Modify the existing Control system interface to provide outputs to the new audio system Test to ensure the continued operation of the existing system Maintain the operation of the existing system throughout the replacement process Page 2
2.1.2 Scope of Work (Part B) This work, whilst included as part of Stage 1, would be undertaken after the main Stage 1 package, Part A. It has been included in the Stage 1 package due to the integration requirements with remaining existing infrastructure. Supply new microphones Replace the transformer splitter system with a microphone XLR patch panel for 130 (approx) microphones. (This item required further development to be confirmed in this Stage) Supply and install new microphone cabling to benches and integrate into the existing system 2.1.3 Contractor Selection It is our recommendation that the existing system maintenance contractor be considered for this Stage 1 work. This is due to the following: Considerable prior knowledge is required to undertake the scope of work The contractor will be tasked with maintaining the operational capacity of the existing system whilst the system is being implemented The existing contractor has the confidence of Parliamentary staff 2.1.4 Estimate of Cost The following major equipment items must be supplied: Biamp Audia Flex CM with 12 x AEC2 5 off Biamp Audia Flex CM with 7 x AEC2, 5 x IP2 1 off Biamp EXPO 4 off Biamp EXPI 1 off Biamp Logic Box 4 off Biamp RCB Hub 1 off XLR/XLR tails from the splitters to Murray preamplifiers XLR/ tails to Audia Flex inputs Leon Audio Microphone Transformer Splitters (12 per 2RU) 6 off Custom sized rack to suit Splitters UPS suitable to hold the Flex systems up for 10 minutes. Liebert GXT2, 1KVA or equivalent. Power distribution The estimated cost of the hardware above is $150,000, excluding installation expenses. Note that this does not include Part B of Stage 1 works, where the pricing will be mainly determined by the results of the microphone testing. Page 3
2.2 Network Contractor 2.2.1 Scope of work Supply and install the following: Network design, advise on suitable product Supply switches Cisco network integration Set up Spanning Tree 2.2.2 Contractor Selection Again, it is the recommendation of the consultants that the incumbent contractor/s be used for this work. There will be some new work, as well as integration with the existing Broadcast video network. 2.2.3 Hardware Cost The Network Contractor package has not been costed. 2.3 ICE Design Responsibilities Oversee the installation of the hardware and integration with LAN Interface with the broadcast system LAN Develop the DSP algorithms and mix requirements for: Hansard TV broadcast Radio broadcast Hearing impaired Simultaneous Interpretation Test/compare with the live system VPN access 2.4 Programme This package is required ASAP, with hardware installation within eight weeks of contract approval. Development of the audio signal processing will be undertaken by ICE Design throughout the course of the project. Refer to the Gantt chart in Appendix A. Page 4
3 Stage 2 Package Control System and Integration The Stage 2 package is to provide for the development of the control surface and system interfaces. This package includes the supply of hardware to undertake the development of the control interface package. There is some risk in this package, as the interface has not been finalised, but is a work in progress. The contractor must show a willingness to provide hardware and expertise to assist with the development. There may be some consideration to hiring some equipment until an appropriate interface can be developed. Then the contractor may provide a fixed price for the final implementation. 3.1 Audio Visual Contractor 3.1.1 Scope of Work At this point in time the control surface requires development. The Scope of Work for the contractor shall be to: Work with the consultants to develop an appropriate human interface Supply equipment for testing and development as appropriate Develop the control software under the guidance of the Consultants Install the finished system into the control room Interface with the Control LAN Commission the system Provide maintenance changes as the project progresses 3.1.2 Equipment List This list is provided in generic form only. Video display monitors with touch screen overlay Control system, such as Calypso, AMX, Crestron Advanced programming and graphic interface skills At this early stage, the brief is not sufficiently developed to enable us to establish a realistic cost estimate for these items. 3.1.3 Contractor There are different Contractor selection scenarios that may be useful for this package. 1. Initial development directly with a Manufacturer (e.g. NextWindows) 2. Then ROI once the system requirements have been established OR 3. ROI to contractor with the necessary skills (maybe discuss with manufacturers to identify a suitable partner) We would recommend canvassing the first scenario prior to going to an ROI process. Page 5
3.2 Other Works Carpentry/Cabinetmaking Power, UPS Lighting (task) Control Room acoustics Broadcast contractor to supply and install appropriate cameras as detailed by this package. 3.3 ICE Design Responsibilities Undertake the development of the interface design with the successful contractor Provide design guidance for the video interface, location and type of cameras Select visual monitors and system layout as required Develop the command interface (code) in conjunction with the contractor Develop the audio control sequences Implement the changeover to live systems 3.4 Programme It is expected that this package will be let as soon as possible, to allow development over the next four months. 4 Stage 3 Package Sound Reinforcement System The Stage 3 package provides for the replacement of the Chamber sound reinforcement system. The sound system loudspeakers will be developed by ICE Design. A detailed construction and installation scope of work will be provided to allow tendering. The successful contractor will be tasked with installation through to basic commissioning of the system, then assisting ICE Design in the final commissioning process. 4.1 Audio Contractor 4.1.1 Scope of Work Construct bespoke loudspeaker systems Install suspension systems Install speaker cabling Supply and install signal processing and amplification Basic commissioning Assist with Advanced Commissioning undertaken by the ICE Design team Page 6
The following items are additional to the main scope of work, and depending upon the procurement guidelines, may be included within this scope of work. Supply and install SI system Supply and install Hearing Impaired system 4.1.2 Equipment List To be advised 4.1.3 Contractor It is expected that this package would go to ROI and Tender 4.1.4 ICE Design Responsibilities Design loudspeaker systems Possible design suspension systems Prepare a specification and documentation for tender Design hardware solutions for Hearing Impaired Design hardware solution for SI Provide guidance in the selection of an appropriate contractor Oversee installation and basic commissioning Undertake final commissioning 4.1.5 Programme ROI September 2007 Tender October 2007 Award November 2007 Installation December 2007, January 2008 Commissioning February 2008 5 ICE Design - Other Tasks 5.1 Integration The development of this project includes a range of project skills that are not necessarily available from a single contractor. The need to provide clearly defined stages due to the project and product expertise brings about the possibility of segmentation that must be carefully managed. One major task to be undertaken by ICE Design will be to ensure holistic integration of the audio, control and monitoring and loudspeaker systems within the context of the project. Page 7
5.2 Preliminary Works There are a number of design tasks currently being undertaken prior to the implementation of Stage 1. These design tasks will enable the Part 1 Scope of Work to be fully defined, and assist in avoiding duplication. Develop the Stage 1 system schematics to Tender level Accurately define the interface requirements between the Video and Radio Broadcast and Audio Systems Accurately define the Hansard interface requirements (as opposed to design work in developing a Hansard infrastructure plan) Determine the areas of commonality and infrastructure sharing that may be available between existing systems and any new infrastructure requirements Define a location for the Hansard recording systems These tasks will be undertaken by ICE Design. 5.3 Simultaneous Interpretation Development of a strategy for the implementation of SI (Local or Remote) 5.4 Hansard Reporting System Develop FTR strategy Standard Operating Environment (SOE) for all recording situations Signing Recording SI Implement strategy Commission 5.5 Microphone Testing and Selection Test selected microphones, make recommendation Review the mounting and gooseneck arrangements for appropriateness. (maybe fixed shaft, rather than flexible) Review mounting positions on desks Page 8
5.6 Banquet Hall Review and test Room acoustics Gain an understanding of the various room uses Review audio system DSP setup Review design and implementation Make recommendations Work with contractors to apply remedial works 5.7 Theatrette Review and test Room acoustics Gain an understanding of the various room uses Gain an understanding of the Prime Minister s issues with the room/system Review audio system DSP setup Review design and implementation Review the quality of Hansard recording Make recommendations Work with contractors to apply remedial works 5.8 Committee Rooms Review and test Room acoustics Gain an understanding of the various room uses, including use of video conferencing Review audio system DSP setup Review design and implementation Review the quality of Hansard recording Make recommendations Work with contractors to apply remedial works Page 9
ID Task Name Duration 1 Design Development 115 days 2 Needs Analysis 20 days 3 Preliminary Works 20 days 4 Design Development for Stage 1 30 days 5 Design Development for Stage 2 40 days 6 Design Development for Stage 3 80 days 7 8 Stage 1 - Audio Front End inc Control 90 days 9 Appoint Contractors 0 days 10 Purchase Equipment 20 days 11 Installation 20 days 12 Commissioning 45 days 13 14 Stage 2 - Control Surface 125 days 15 ROI 10 days 16 Tender 15 days 17 Evaluation and Award 5 days 18 Development 20 days 19 Implementation 30 days 20 Commissioning 45 days 21 22 Stage 3 - Loudspeakers 100 days 23 ROI 10 days 24 Tender Open 20 days 25 Review and Award Tender 15 days 26 Stage 3 Implementation 30 days 27 Commissioning 15 days Apr '07 May '07 Jun '07 Jul '07 Aug '07 Sep '07 Oct '07 Nov '07 Dec '07 Jan '08 Feb '08 12 19 26 2 9 16 23 30 7 14 21 28 4 11 18 25 2 9 16 23 30 6 13 20 27 3 10 17 24 1 8 15 22 29 5 12 19 26 3 10 17 24 31 7 14 21 28 4 11 18 4/06 Project: 070320 P01 v2 rlg Date: Fri 18/05/07 Task Split Progress Milestone Summary Project Summary External Tasks External Milestone Deadline Page 1
CONTROL ROOM EXISTING AUDIO MIXER AUXILIARY FEEDS INDUCTION LOOP SYSTEM EXISTING MICROPHONES INCLUDING AMBIENCE & INTERJECTION MICROPHONES AMPLIFIERS CHAMBER VOID UNDER CONTROL ROOM RISER SPACE CHAMBER NOTE AUXILIARY FEEDS Currently provides various audio signals to: - Hansard recording systems - Streamed in-house audio system - TV broadcast DESIGN Australia Pty Ltd ACN 081 909 855 Sydney +61 2 9568 4684 Melbourne +61 3 9882 1700 Adelaide +61 8 8370 0222 Changeover Implementation Existing Audio System May 19, 2007 Drawn By: MDH SIZE JOB NO DWG NO REV A3 ICE 00 SCALE NTS SHEET 1OF4
CONTROL ROOM EXISTING AUDIO MIXER EXISTING MICROPHONES MICROPHONE SPLITTERS CONTACT CLOSURE INTERFACE SINGLE AUX FEED INDUCTION LOOP SYSTEM EXISTING TV BROADCAST I/F AMPLIFIERS NEW AUDIO DSP CHAMBER VOID UNDER CONTROL ROOM RISER SPACE CHAMBER AUDIO INPUT AUDIO LAN CONTROL LAN SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION AUDIO OUTPUT HANSARD RADIO / STREAMING PRESS? DESIGN Australia Pty Ltd ACN 081 909 855 Changeover Implementation Sydney +61 2 9568 4684 Melbourne +61 3 9882 1700 Adelaide +61 8 8370 0222 Stage 1: Audio and Network Infrastructure May 19, 2007 Drawn By: MDH SIZE JOB NO DWG NO REV A3 ICE 00 SCALE NTS SHEET 2OF4
CONTROL ROOM EXISTING AUDIO MIXER EXISTING MICROPHONES MICROPHONE SPLITTERS CONTACT CLOSURE INTERFACE SINGLE AUX FEED INDUCTION LOOP SYSTEM EXISTING TV BROADCAST I/F AMPLIFIERS NEW AUDIO DSP CHAMBER VOID UNDER CONTROL ROOM RISER SPACE CHAMBER CONTROL I/F AUDIO INPUT AUDIO LAN CONTROL LAN CONTROL ROOM SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION AUDIO OUTPUT HANSARD REMOTE ACCESS RADIO / STREAMING PRESS? DESIGN Australia Pty Ltd ACN 081 909 855 Changeover Implementation Sydney +61 2 9568 4684 Melbourne +61 3 9882 1700 Adelaide +61 8 8370 0222 Stage 2: Control Interface May 19, 2007 Drawn By: MDH SIZE JOB NO DWG NO REV A3 ICE 00 SCALE NTS SHEET 3OF4
REPLACED MICROPHONES MICROPHONE PATCH PANEL NEW MICROPHONES NEW AUDIO DSP EXISTING TV BROADCAST I/F INDUCTION LOOP SYSTEM LOUDSPEAKER DSP AMPLIFIERS CHAMBER VOID UNDER CONTROL ROOM RISER SPACE CHAMBER AND PUBLIC GALLERY CONTROL I/F AUDIO INPUT AUDIO LAN CONTROL LAN CONTROL ROOM SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION AUDIO OUTPUT HANSARD REMOTE ACCESS RADIO / STREAMING PRESS? DESIGN Australia Pty Ltd ACN 081 909 855 Changeover Implementation Sydney +61 2 9568 4684 Melbourne +61 3 9882 1700 Adelaide +61 8 8370 0222 Stage 3: Electroacoustics Implementation May 19, 2007 SIZE JOB NO DWG NO REV A3 ICE 00 Drawn By: MDH SCALE NTS SHEET 4OF4