Understanding the Engineering Role of Modular Scaffold Systems in Modern Concert Production

When audiences watch a large stadium concert, most attention is focused on the performers, lighting and LED screens. Few people realise that much of the temporary infrastructure surrounding the main stage is supported by Ringlock structures.

Modern Ringlock systems are far more than construction scaffolding. They have evolved into modular engineering systems capable of supporting LED walls, lighting fixtures, loudspeakers, backstage facilities, technical equipment and performer access routes—all within a single integrated structure.

During the construction of the 2026 Guangzhou Pearl Beer Festival Music Festival, we observed how large Ringlock structures were integrated with the hydraulic roof stage. Rather than acting as independent towers, they formed an essential part of the overall stage system.

This article explains how these structures were planned, constructed and adapted to support the demanding requirements of a modern stadium concert.

Engineering Observation

The Ringlock structures observed during this project included the following features:

• Large Ringlock systems installed on both sides of the hydraulic roof stage

• An overall structural profile resembling the Chinese character "几"

• Heavy Duty Brace Ledges installed before creating structural openings

• Reserved spaces for electrical cabinets and technical equipment

• Integrated LED screen support systems

• Upper platforms for lighting fixtures

• Cantilever beams supporting line array speakers

• Internal fall-protection safety nets

• Independent 10 × 10 metre working platforms

• 4 × 4 metre entrance tents connected to larger changing-room tents

• Access ramps for performers and equipment transportation

These observations demonstrate that the Ringlock system functioned as a multifunctional engineering structure rather than simply a scaffold.

Why Are Ringlock Structures Used Beside the Main Stage?

The hydraulic roof stage supports the primary performance area, but many other production systems still require independent structural support.

During this project, the Ringlock structures carried numerous functions simultaneously:

• Side LED screens

• Lighting fixtures

• Line array loudspeakers

• Technical working platforms

• Performer entrances

• Electrical equipment

• Backstage circulation

• Safety protection

Instead of constructing separate support systems for each function, engineers combined them into one modular structure.

This modular approach is discussed further in our article on Modular System Logic for Stage, Truss and Scaffold.

Build the Structure First, Create the Openings Later

One of the most interesting observations during this project was the construction sequence.

Many people assume that contractors simply leave openings wherever a doorway or equipment cabinet is required.

In reality, the process was almost the opposite.

The Ringlock structure was first assembled as a complete and continuous framework.

Only after the overall structural system had been completed were selected sections modified to create functional spaces.

This sequence helps maintain overall structural integrity during construction.

Heavy Duty Brace Ledges Were Installed Before Removing Structural Members

Before any openings were created, Heavy Duty Brace Ledges were installed at locations where structural members would later be removed.

These reinforced beams were positioned above future:

• Performer entrances

• Equipment cabinet areas

• Technical passages

• Service access routes

Only after these reinforcement members had been installed were the corresponding Ringlock standards and ledgers removed.

This ensured that structural loads could continue to transfer safely around the opening.

Rather than weakening the structure, the openings became part of the original engineering plan.

Ringlock Structures Supported Multiple Engineering Systems

Unlike ordinary construction scaffolding, the Ringlock structures in this project supported numerous independent production systems.

LED Screens

Large LED walls were installed on both sides of the stage.

The lower edge of each screen began approximately one metre above the stage floor.

Steel rectangular tubes (approximately 50 × 30 mm) were used beneath the LED panels to create a level support line.

The rear of the LED wall was secured using safety straps to prevent movement under wind loading.

Lighting Platforms

Above the LED screens, the Ringlock structure provided mounting positions for numerous lighting fixtures.

The modular platform system allowed technicians to install, adjust and maintain lighting equipment safely throughout construction and rehearsals.

Line Array Speaker Support

At the outer edges of the Ringlock structures, cantilever beams projected outward from the main framework.

These cantilever beams supported additional line array speaker systems serving the audience outside the coverage of the main stage arrays.

Supporting suspended loads requires careful consideration of load paths and connection strength. Similar engineering principles are discussed in Load Analysis for Modular Stage Systems.

Ringlock Also Created Backstage Infrastructure

The Ringlock structures were not limited to supporting production equipment.

They also formed part of the backstage operating system.

Both sides of the stage included approximately 10 × 10 metre Ringlock platforms.

These platforms connected directly with:

• 4 × 4 metre entrance tents

• 10 × 10 metre changing-room tents

• Performer waiting areas

• Technical working spaces

Sloped access ramps extended from the outer sides of the platforms, allowing performers and equipment to move efficiently between backstage facilities and the stage.

This demonstrates how temporary structures can combine engineering and operational functions within one integrated design.

Internal Safety Was Built Into the Structure

Another important observation was the installation of internal fall-protection safety nets.

Although invisible to the audience, these safety systems protect technicians working at height during:

• LED installation

• Lighting installation

• Cable routing

• Equipment maintenance

Temporary structures must be designed not only for structural stability but also for worker safety throughout the construction process.

More information about these principles can be found in Safety Standards and Engineering Constraints.

Protecting the Stadium Surface

Because this concert was constructed inside Guangzhou Tianhe Sports Center, protecting the existing running track was an important engineering consideration.

Before the Ringlock standards were erected, multiple protective layers were installed over the stadium surface.

From bottom to top, the protection system consisted of:

1. Waterproof plastic sheeting

2. Grey anti-slip felt

3. White protective plastic boards

4. Steel plates

5. Wooden pads beneath every Ringlock standard

Each Ringlock leg rested on a wooden pad approximately 100 × 100 mm.

These pads distributed concentrated loads while increasing friction between the steel base plates and the protective surface.

Rather than simply protecting the venue, this layered system also created a more stable foundation for the temporary structure.

Ringlock Is a Modular Engineering System

From the audience's perspective, the side structures appear to be ordinary scaffolding.

In reality, they function as a complete modular engineering system.

Each component contributes to the overall performance of the temporary stage rather than serving a single purpose.

Conclusion

The Ringlock structures observed during this stadium concert demonstrate how modular scaffold systems have evolved into multifunctional engineering platforms.

Rather than supporting only construction work, they became an integral part of the concert itself.

They carried LED screens, lighting equipment and loudspeakers.

They created backstage circulation routes.

They provided technical working platforms.

They protected workers during installation.

They accommodated electrical equipment while maintaining structural integrity through carefully planned reinforcement.

Perhaps the most significant engineering lesson from this project was the construction sequence itself.

The Ringlock structure was first assembled as a complete structural system.

Heavy Duty Brace Ledges were then installed at locations where future openings were required.

Only after reinforcement was complete were sections removed to create entrances, equipment cabinets and service passages.

This approach demonstrates an important principle of temporary event engineering:

A stable structure is designed first. Functional spaces are created afterwards.

Understanding this principle helps explain why modern Ringlock systems have become one of the most versatile structural solutions for large-scale concert production.

Recommended Internal Links

• Modular System Logic for Stage, Truss and Scaffold

• Load Analysis for Modular Stage Systems

• Safety Standards and Engineering Constraints

• Understanding the Layout of a Large Stadium Concert

• How Is a Stadium Concert Sound System Distributed?

• How Is a Large Concert Main Stage Constructed?

• Ringlock Scaffolding