(06-17-2016 02:12 PM)Afflicted Wrote:  But the purpose is to make the stadium look more attractive and engaging to fans. It needs to be something that improves the game day atmosphere at Rice Stadium. I don't think solar panels would accomplish that goal. They also can't be removed for the occasional big game that demands more seating.

Did you not understand that the SEATS would either be painted with 'solar panel' paint?

http://www.nanoflexpower.com/automotive
http://www.durabilityanddesign.com/news/...ew&id=9156

For example, a group of scientists from Rice University in Houston, TX, recently developed a lithium-ion battery that can be sprayed onto any surface

no, these aren't specifically what I'm talking about... but they are similar, and Rice is involved in them already... and they are green and utilize an EXTREMELY under-utilized physical space

As I said, I'm not a fan of 'fake' fans'... and would prefer that we leave the stands empty and have something novel to talk about (rather than having people say... hey look, those aren't people and they're trying to make it look like it is).. and a REASON those seats are empty, but then show a full west side...
BUT, there's no reason the ideas can't be combined.

The difference is, the University would probably like the research possibilities and attention and might even get grants to fund it, and potentially patents... while the tarps would just be an expense.


FTR, compressing people in the west stands DOES improve the atmosphere... and especially since the lower east would still often be empty, and the upper deck would be silent... and of course everyone in the stadium would know they were fake....

I'm trying to figure out how tarps improve the atmosphere any more than simply closing the deck.... but as I said, nothing in my suggestion precludes yours.