Sensor Equipment Is Essential for Amusement Park Safety

At Locon, our custom sensor systems are utilized in a wide variety of industrial settings, from food packaging operations to automotive assembly plants. With these applications in mind, it might surprise you to learn that many of the same sensors can be found in amusement parks as well! Attractions such as rollercoasters and water rides rely on these sensors to deliver guests a thrilling experience without putting their safety in jeopardy.

Let’s take rollercoasters, for example.

These rides typically utilize a “block system” to maintain a safe distance between trains. The tracks on a rollercoaster are divided into different sections called blocks, each of which is separated by a brake point. These brake points prevent any two trains from being on the same block at the same time.

In order to track the position of passing trains, the brake points use a system of proximity switches, typically inductive sensors. If two trains do reach the same block at the same time, the inductive sensors signal the brake points to automatically bring the rear train to a stop. This way, each train can be closely monitored and managed without the need for human intervention.

Many water rides such as long flumes rely on a similar principle to ensure rider safety.

To address the concern of repeated exposure to water, we supply both inductive and photoelectric sensors rated to perform reliably in a wet environment – in addition to offering the possibility of a specific custom design for water rides. Thanks to the accuracy and versatility of modern sensor equipment, you can find these systems in all kinds of unexpected places.

Interested in integrating a custom sensor system into your own operation? The team at Locon can work with you to design a solution that’s tailored to your unique needs. Give us a call or contact us online today to get started!