Our clients are always looking for new ways to generate additional revenue. Since September, we have been receiving a lot of request for information on coin operated water cannons and special effects. You know, the kind kids love to drop a stream of quarters in to soak the entire boat full of unsuspecting guest. Many large parks have already implemented successful systems, and are generating a fair bit of revenue. However certain manufacturers who specialize in these primitive and basic spray systems charge outrageous amounts for their product. In quite a few cases, over $30,000 for a three station system. In the following article, I’m going to tell you how to build one in-house for less then $2,500 in parts and materials.

Basic Parts & Materials

1 x Direct Logic (KOYO) 205 with 24V INPUT/Output Card
1 x 1500 GPH Pump or a pump capable of maintain 35-60 PSI at the output nozzle.
1 x coin mechanism ( 12/24 Volt)
1 x photo eye & reflector
1x Automatic 3/4 In-line valve with flow control (12/24 volt) (TIP: You can use control valves from sprinkler systems like Rainbird.)
Waterproof Lighted Push buttons
Conduit, Wire, PVC Nozzles, PVC Pipe, Flexible hose to plumb everything together.
Assorted NEMA Enclosures

For example purposes, please refer to the diagram above.

Based on the diagram above it should be self explanatory how the system is setup. Water is pumped at pressure from a source into a set of valves which are controlled by the outputs on the PLC. The valves are operated by push buttons on the guest interface which become active after a trigger signal from the coin mech is received on the input side of the PLC. A photo eye is used in combination with a timer to suspend the system after a specified time of ride inactivity.

System Inputs

1 x Photo Eye
3 x Pushbuttons
3 x Coin Mechs

System Outputs

1 x Pump Relay
3 x Valve Control
3 x Pushbutton Lamp

Things that you need to consider and know when building a system like this;

Position, type, and control of spray nozzles – Spray nozzles should never be directed at the oncoming motion of ride units. Guest do not want a water cannon to the face, and you don’t want the liability of injury. We recommend the up and over approach to nozzle placement, the spray should always come from behind or above the motion of travel. This reduces rider discomfort and adds an element of surprise. Different nozzles create different spray patterns, you will need to perform some trial and error test to determine what type works best for your system. Look for nozzles which create a soft stream or a rain affect. You should consider limiting each cycle of the system to 4-7 seconds of spray time, this time frame we have determined provides the best compromise of rider comfort, and sprayer enjoyment. Make sure that you include safety signage regarding the use of such a system.

Coin Mech PLC Integration Hints & Tricks – Coin mechanisms handle coin counting in a couple different ways. You will need to adjust your PLC trigger event to accomodate this, or order a specific type of coin mech. The first kind sends a single pulse when the desired coinage count has been entered. The second, sends a 5 count pulse for every 25 cents entered. The third sends an exact pulse count, 5 for a nickle, 25 for a quarter etc. We recommend the single pulse or pulse coin mechanisms for simplicity. Ask your vendor to verify the output on the coin mech before you order them or be prepared to handle the pulse programmaticly.

Increase profitability -

Make sure that your system is highly visible and on a high traffic street.
After a period of inactivity use the push buttons as a light show or a beacon to gather interest.
Insure your system has a bill changer near by and that its operational at all times.
Use thematic elements to integrate the water features into your ride.
As an up charge option, position a photo eye as to trigger an automatic spray that guarantees it will hit the target.