How do I add a delay to a triggered prop?

[Evernight]

So I built my first simple pneumatic prop....we are using a step mat to trigger it, but what can I use to add a delay to the prop so that it can't be retriggered for like 10-30 seconds after being triggered? I know I could use a controller but thought maybe there was a cheaper way?

Its a simple spider prop mounted on a 16" air piston that sits inside a pipe - when triggered it shoots out of the pipe then retracts back inside the pipe.

What I would like for it to do is: Person steps on mat - Spider fully extends then fully retracts, then is unabled to be retriggered for at least 10 seconds so that the same people dont repeatedly step on the mat over and over.

Any help would be great.

[Kelly Anderson]

Your still going to need some type of timer. I use animation maestros to control nearly all my pneumatics. Even if all you need it to do is extend the cylinder once and then retract it you still need the delay before the prop can reset and be ready to trigger again. The animation maestro allows you to program a delay right after the animation.

The animation maestros are pretty resonable for all that they can do. And there is still the option to have multiple animations where with a simple timer, all you can do is turn an effect on and the turn it off.

Animation Maestro 1
http://hauntyourhouse.net/prod/maestro1.html

Good Luck!!

[sophisticatedterror]

I second the maestro, as it is probably your cheapest route...I think one is like 50$ so not bad. Up to two minutes of programming and including your delay so it doesnt trigger right away. Can be used with a switch or foot mat or pir.



Kale

[gadget-evilusions]

And once you master a timer like the animation maestro, or even the fright ideas controllers, http://frightideas.com/controllers.h...4b2e34966be6bc , you can graduate to a lower cost, much more robust controller like those produced by EFX-TEK, http://www.efx-tek.com/topics/prop-1.html

[SinisterControls]

All this for under $60!

Precision repeatability and reliability due to digital processing. No obsolete analog timers.

Consists of three digital timers in one. When triggered, the PRE DELAY timer determines a delay (0-10sec) before the action. The EVENT TIME is programmable from 0-30 sec, then a POST DELAY timer determines the time (0-10sec) before the next trigger can occur. All three internal timers are fully adjustable by the user

Two independent sets of relay contacts allow for simultaneous control of high voltage (120vac) and low voltage circuits.

Each relay channel rated at 8-amps. They may be paralleled for a total current handling capacity of 16-amps.

Can accept nearly any trigger.

Warrantied against defect in materials or workmanship for 5-years, including when used in commercial applications.

12vdc, up to a maximum of 1-amp can be supplied to solenoid valves or other relays with a simple jumper, eliminating the need for other power supplies

More features then I can list. Let me know if you want to know more.