In production at BIRKET Engineering is the show and fire effect control system for Universal Studios Hollywood’s “WaterWorld: A Live Sea War Spectacular.”

The BIRKET-designed and installed Show Supervisor directs all pyro, gas, and lighting effects, provides show area environmental monitoring, and communication with every other required show sub-system.

BIRKET deliverables also include the Show Supervisor cabinet, a four-station Operator Console for the Technical Director’s Booth, four pyro controllers, and five distribution boxes.

The system processor is a two-chassis Allen-Bradley PLC 5/60 controlling 528 local I/O points. The show’s special effects require six sub-system controllers each using a 10-slot Allen-Bradley SLC. The operator console houses two additional SLCs controlled from the PLC 5/60.

The separate fire control system, delivered under contract to SpectraF/X, is based on an Allen-Bradley PLC 5/40. The PLC 5/40 manages six Fire Control Cabinets (FCCs). One FCC serves as the propane gas supervisor station while the other five cabinets are responsible for up to four fire effects each.

The show’s 64 pyro circuits provide for smoke, flares, bullet hits, and concussion cannons. Special effects include water cannons, collapsing towers, water bullet hits, and dust hits.

One of the more spectacular stunts involves a seemingly out-of-control seaplane flying into and exploding before the audience. This stunt is enhanced through the use of a modem link to the seaplane, controlling six on-board effects.

BIRKET Engineering is pleased to have the opportunity to work with MCA on their newest stunt spectacular.