sidecasting

Sidecasting is a term used in various fields to describe the act of directing or projecting something to the side, rather than directly forward or backward. This concept can be applied in several contexts, including in the realm of broadcasting and media. In broadcasting, sidecasting refers to the practice of transmitting content to a secondary channel or platform that is not the primary broadcast. This could involve sending supplementary information, behind-the-scenes footage, or interactive elements to a different device or stream.

In a more physical sense, sidecasting is also a term used in excavation and construction. When digging trenches or canals, the material removed from the ground, known as spoil, is often "sidecast" to the side of the excavation. This method involves pushing the excavated material away from the trench, creating a spoil bank. The distance and placement of the sidecast material are important considerations to avoid re-excavation or obstruction.

Furthermore, the term can be found in the context of manufacturing and materials handling. For example, in some conveyor systems, materials might be diverted or "sidecast" off the main conveyor belt onto a different line or into a collection bin. This allows for sorting, processing, or distribution of items along different paths. The core idea across these diverse applications remains the redirection of something to a lateral position.