Abstract: Various backstop and netting system embodiments have at least one wall section, at least two poles, and at least two coupling sleeves that couple the wall section (and any adjoining wall sections) and the poles. Further, certain systems include a netting that extends between and is coupled to two adjacent poles and moves between a deployed position and a retracted position within a cavity of the wall section. Many exemplary implementations of these systems include a plurality of wall sections, poles, and coupling sleeves that can be easily installed in a modular fashion to create a backstop for a playing field, such as, for example, a softball or baseball field.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of evaluating lighting for a given target area that will have an event which is televised. The method includes calculating television foot-candle and vertical foot-candle for various points on the target area as well as calculating the ratio between those two readings. These calculated readings can then be evaluated for the purpose of determining whether sufficient uniformity and intensity exists for given aiming locations on the target area to provide high quality television filming. The apparatus is preferably a computer program that is installed on a computer that would allow both simulations of not yet existing lighting systems to design lighting systems for optimum television coverage or evaluate existing lighting systems to change them for better performance for televising.

Abstract: An inspection apparatus and method for specular and semi-specular surfaces include a supporting floor and surrounding background which is non-reflective and light absorbing, such as flat black. Portions of the background and/or floor are illuminated either by allowing translucent passage of light from behind or by illuminating a somewhat reflective but light diffusing surface. The reflected images of the illuminated portions can be viewed in the object being inspected, such as a painted car body in an automobile manufacturing line. Ambient light and direct light to the car body is kept to a minimum. Therefore, a high amount of contrast exists between the reflected images of the illuminated portions and those portions of the car body which reflect the dark background. Geometrical shapes can be used for the illuminated portions to assist in an inspection of the auto body.