Vector Security Wins Knoebels Amusement Resort’s Peace of Mind Prize
Buckle up for the story of how Vector Security avoided the roller coaster-like ups and downs when upgrading security at Knoebels Amusement Resort.
(l-r) Knoebels Park's Jesse James and Karl Beagle; Vector Security's Gary Shipierski, Jim Murphy (with award) and Brian Peet; and Knoebels' Jon Slodysko and Don Arbogast Jr.
Video Along for the Rides
The video management portion of the system was aimed at three major objectives: public liability, loss prevention and safety. To address public liability, IP cameras were added throughout much of the common areas of the park utilizing existing – and extending where necessary – network infrastructure. IP cameras aimed at loss prevention were added to gift shops and game venues.
“The integration of the VMS and cameras to the ride systems was very difficult as the system operation had to allow for changes to the performance of the ride system,” says Peet.
In all, the system incorporates 250 cameras, including analog-encoded Hikvision 1.3-megapixel (MP) to 5MP IP mini domes, Vivotek bullet cameras and 360â° fisheye lens cameras with VMS image dewarping. Video is recorded on seven Iomnis VMS rack-mounted servers with RAID storage. The OnSSI VMS is monitored by a central command and control center, and VMS for individual rides are monitored by HD video and touchscreen video displays at each ride operator station and control room.
“The VMS IP system was used in place of an NVR or DVR type of system due to the open architecture design of the VMS,” adds Peet. “This allowed the use of the best camera type for the application, integration with the access control system and also allowed for the use of the custom-developed software for integration to the park’s ride systems and POS register system.”
From a safety standpoint, IP cameras were deployed for unique purposes. In addition to installation of cameras at ride-loading platforms and ride operator stations, cameras were utilized for ride-specific needs. For example, the Flying Turns ride is a trackless coaster, much like a bobsled, that must ensure that no obstruction such as clothing or debris falls on the track. The solution: 43 cameras monitor all parts of the tube to enable ride operators to identify and clear any obstructions before releasing additional cars.
In another case, the Black Diamond ride has 25 cameras watching the track. Integrating the cameras with the ride’s programmable logic controls (PLCs), along with custom VMS viewing, enables operators to view and stop the ride in the event of debris or other safety concerns.
With three cars simultaneously in operation at any one time, there was the requ
irement to only display the cameras immediately ahead of the moving cars to ensure ride operators could make a quick decision on stopping the ride should the need exist. Conventional video motion detection did not provide the operation that was required, so software integration was needed to provide these unique views.
The project likewise required integration of access control with the VMS in order to provide reliable monitoring of irregular access events. The access solution incorporates nine Locknetics maglocks, seven Farpointe proximity readers, seven Bosch egress sensors, seven Nascom door switches, six Securitron exit buttons and Galaxy Control Systems software.
The server/client-based prox system was installed in five buildings with critical doors being secured such as ride control rooms, IT rooms, cash rooms, first aid rooms and park administration offices. Photo badging was also included. At press time, integration with Knoebels POS stations was underway to aid in loss prevention.
A Thrilling Experience
With the project successfully completed, Vector Security continues to keep in close contact with the end user. The integrator’s ongoing service contract allows it to swiftly respond to repair issues and provide software upgrades as needed. Once up and running, in addition to the myriad security and operational benefits already described, the solution wasted little time in helping prevent and resolve park safety and liability incidents.
It’s little wonder Knoebels’ management is very pleased with the project’s outcome, and ongoing system expansion is anticipated. In the end, it’s a scenario akin to the kid, who after some apprehension, wants to go on the thrill ride over and over and over again.
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About the Author
Scott Goldfine
Scott Goldfine is the marketing director for Elite Interactive Solutions. He is the former editor-in-chief and associate publisher of Security Sales & Integration. He can be reached at [email protected].
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