The commentators seemed to make a big deal about the drift in the arena and how it was affecting the players games depending on which side they were in. Is this drift the norm in badminton competitions? I didn't hear much about in in the World Championships that was held in the same place last year, nor in previous competitions. Is there not something that can be done to prevent this 'drift'?
Yes it is normal and it can be a big deal when doing a lift or clear. I don't think it makes such big difference when driving because generally the drift gets stronger the higher you go. The only thing you can do to prevent a drift is shutting down the air conditioning but that is not a good idea especially in SEA
The air con was off during all games during the Olympics but there was still a drift. Remember that shuttles are only 5g so it won't take much to affect the flight!
there was a bit of drift (going to where the flags are) but yes, no a/c only fans as one gets close to the middle of the arena..it was a bit on the warm side as one sits further up the seating area..
Its air convection. cold air comes in the doors hits the warm air and creates currents. they could minimise it by keeping the doors shut. but other factors create currents too, like anything that could change the temperature of the air, like the lights, spectators, equipment. tbh its completely fair whether there is a drift or not. both sides get to deal with it for a set and they swap over in the middle of the 3rd set.
No. In the UK (can't speak for other countries) by law buildings have to have a certain amount of circulation/ventilation etc, even with the air con switched off, which it was, these air flows still effect the shuttle.
