Apparatus, system and method for water treatment

Abstract

Apparatuses, systems, and methods for water treatment are provided. The apparatus comprises: a sensor module configured to receive a flow of water from a body of water, the sensor module comprising a sensor assembly configured to monitor a characteristic of the flow of water; and a control module in operative communication with the sensor module and a chemical feed system configured to supply one or more chemicals to the body of water. The control module is configured to, via the one or more processors, receive sensor data indicative of a characteristic of the water flow from the sensor module, analyze the characteristic of the water flow relative to a preset criterion, and adjust a supply rate at which the chemical feed system supplies the one or more chemicals to the body of water based on the analysis of the characteristic of the water flow.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates generally to water treatment, and more specifically to apparatus, systems and methods for monitoring the chemical properties of water and controlling chemical feed systems for water treatment. Background Technology

[0002] Water is used in many commercial, industrial, and recreational applications. Depending on the specific end use, water may require specific treatment. End uses can include, but are not limited to, drinking, industrial water supply, irrigation, river maintenance, water recreation, or many other uses, including the safe return of used water to the environment. Water treatment typically improves water quality by removing contaminants and unwanted components or reducing their concentration, thus making the water suitable for its intended end use. Untreated water can cause equipment corrosion or mechanical failure, leading to costly repairs. Furthermore, in some applications, untreated water can breed bacteria, algae, and other undesirable organisms, potentially causing illness and serious medical problems, or even death, in individuals exposed to untreated water through ingestion or direct physical contact.

[0003] Common water treatment practices often rely on the introduction of treatment chemicals to control such organisms periodically or continuously. For example, some water treatment systems use chemical feed systems designed to supply water with a chemical solution comprising one or more treatment chemicals in a controlled manner. Common treatment chemicals include chlorine, which is typically expressed as the concentration of free available chlorine (FAC).

[0004] Typically, the components of a water treatment system are operated individually, either manually or automatically, without communication between them. Therefore, conventional water treatment systems often require significant monitoring and intervention (i.e., monitoring equipment and regular water testing) to ensure that the components function as intended, which can be laborious and time-consuming.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for water treatment devices and methods that can facilitate the monitoring and control of water treatment systems and reduce the monitoring and intervention required to ensure desired water chemistry properties. Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the foregoing technical and background information. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This overview is intended to describe selected concepts in a simplified form, which are further described in the detailed embodiments. This overview is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to assist in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0007] In various embodiments, a water treatment apparatus is provided, comprising: a sensor module configured to receive water flow from a water body, the sensor module including sensor components configured to monitor characteristics of the water flow; and a control module operatively communicating with the sensor module and a chemical feeding system configured to supply one or more chemicals to the water body. The control module is configured, via one or more processors, to: receive sensor data indicating the characteristics of the water flow from the sensor module; analyze the characteristics of the water flow relative to preset criteria; and adjust the supply rate of the chemical feeding system to supply one or more chemicals to the water body based on the analysis of the water flow characteristics.

[0008] In various embodiments, a system is provided comprising: a chemical feeding system configured to supply one or more chemicals to a body of water; and a water treatment control device including: a sensor module configured to receive water flow from the body of water, the sensor module including sensor components configured to monitor characteristics of the water flow; and a control module operatively communicating with the sensor module and the chemical feeding system. The control module is configured to, via one or more processors,: receive sensor data indicating the characteristics of the water flow from the sensor module; analyze the characteristics of the water flow relative to preset standards; and adjust the supply rate of the chemical feeding system to supply one or more chemicals to the body of water based on the analysis of the characteristics of the water flow.

[0009] In various embodiments, a method is provided, comprising: guiding water flow from a body of water to a sensor module of a water treatment control device; using sensor components of the sensor module to monitor characteristics of the water flow; using one or more processors of a control module of the water treatment control device to analyze the characteristics of the water flow relative to a preset standard; and using one or more processors of the control module to adjust the supply rate of one or more chemicals selectively supplied to the water body by a chemical feeding system based on the analysis of the characteristics of the water flow.

[0010] Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics of the apparatus and method will become apparent from the accompanying drawings and the foregoing background art, in light of the following detailed description and the appended claims. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The present disclosure will be described below with reference to the following figures, wherein similar numerals denote similar elements, and wherein:

[0012] Figure 1 The illustrations depict water treatment systems according to various non-limiting embodiments.

[0013] Figure 2 This illustrates various non-limiting embodiments. Figure 1 Data flow diagram of the operation of water treatment control equipment;

[0014] Figure 3 Including a front top perspective view, a rear top perspective view, and a front bottom perspective view of a water treatment control device according to various non-limiting embodiments;

[0015] Figure 4 include Figure 3 Rear view, side view, front view, top view and bottom view of the water treatment control equipment;

[0016] Figure 5 and Figure 6 include Figure 3 and Figure 4 A front view of the water treatment control equipment, with its cover removed. For clarity, Figure 6 Omitted Figure 5 Some components are presented in the text;

[0017] Figure 7 yes Figures 3-6 Exploded view of various components of the water treatment control equipment;

[0018] Figure 8 and Figure 9 include Figures 3-7 An exploded view of the control module of the water treatment control equipment;

[0019] Figure 10 and Figure 11 include Figures 3-7 An exploded view of the sensor module of a water treatment control device;

[0020] Figure 12 yes Figures 3-7 An exploded view of the sensor assembly of the water treatment control equipment; and

[0021] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for treating water according to various non-limiting embodiments.

[0022] Further areas of application will become apparent from the description provided herein. The descriptions and specific examples in this overview are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the invention or its application and use. As used herein, the word "exemplary" means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Therefore, any embodiment described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments. All embodiments described herein are exemplary embodiments, provided to enable those skilled in the art to make or use the invention, and not to limit the scope of the invention, which is defined by the claims. Furthermore, it is not intended to be limited by any express or implied theory presented in the foregoing technical field, background art, summary of the invention, or the following detailed description.

[0024] For the sake of brevity, conventional techniques related to signal processing, data transmission, signaling, control, and other functional aspects of the system (and its various operating components) may not be described in detail herein. Furthermore, the connecting lines shown in the various figures included herein are intended to illustrate exemplary functional relationships and / or physical couplings between various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may exist in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0025] In summary, the present invention relates to apparatus and related systems and methods for water treatment, as these apparatuses and systems can be used to monitor water properties and supply chemical solutions comprising mixtures of chemical materials and aqueous fluids (e.g., water) to water bodies undergoing treatment. The apparatuses and systems of the present invention may be particularly suitable for chemical treatment of commercial or residential swimming pools, municipal drinking water, agricultural water, and industrial water.

[0026] Figure 1 Certain aspects of an exemplary embodiment of a water treatment system 100 consistent with this disclosure are shown. For convenience, the system 100 is discussed herein in conjunction with its use in a commercial or residential swimming pool 105. However, the system 100 and related systems are not limited to any particular application. Typically, pool water is pumped from the pool, forced through a filter (e.g., cartridge filter, sand filter, diatomaceous earth filter, etc.), and optionally through various other pool system components (e.g., water heating equipment, chemical feed system, salinization system, etc.), and then returned to the pool via a return line. For clarity, Figure 1 This is limited to certain components of System 100 that are particularly relevant to the discussion herein. However, it should be understood that, in addition to Figure 1In addition to or as alternatives to those presented herein, system 100 may include a variety of other systems and components. Such other systems may include, for example, various piping systems, fixtures and valves, and / or various other components related to the transport, treatment, and / or regulation of the pool water. Furthermore, system 100 is discussed herein in conjunction with the chlorination and pH control of the pool water in pool 105. However, system 100 is not limited to any particular chemical treatment or chemical.

[0027] refer to Figure 1 System 100 includes a water treatment control device 102 configured to monitor the characteristics of the pool water and communicate with and / or control a chemical feed system to supply chemicals and / or chemical solutions to the pool water. In this example, the chemical feed system includes a chlorine feed system 103 and a pH control feed system 104. Typically, pool water can be pumped from pool 105 by pump 101, directed through device 102, directed to the chlorine feed system 103 and pH control feed system 104 where the pool water is treated, and then returned to pool 105.

[0028] Now for reference Figure 2 And continue to refer to Figure 1 The data flow diagram illustrates various embodiments. Figure 1 The components of device 102. It will be understood that various embodiments of device 102 according to this disclosure may include any number of modules embedded within device 102, which may be combined and / or further divided to similarly implement the systems and methods described herein. Furthermore, input to device 102 may be received from other control modules (not shown) associated with system 100, and / or determined / modeled by other sub-modules (not shown) within device 102. In various embodiments, device 102 includes a control module 110 and a sensor module 112.

[0029] Sensor module 112 represents a combination of hardware, software, firmware, processing logic, and / or other components associated with device 102, configured to sense, detect, and / or measure one or more characteristics of pool water guided through device 102. In various embodiments, sensor module 112 uses sensor components to sense, detect, and / or measure pool water characteristics or pool water properties from which characteristics can be derived, such as, but not limited to, free available chlorine (FAC) concentration, pH, and flow rate. Sensor module 112 generates sensor data 113, including various data indicating sensed, detected, and / or measured pool water characteristics.

[0030] Control module 110 represents a combination of hardware, software, firmware, processing logic, and / or other components associated with device 102, configured to analyze the characteristics of the pool water and, based on the analysis, control chlorine feed system 103 and pH control feed system 104 to supply chemicals and / or chemical solutions to the pool water. In various embodiments, control module 110 receives feed system data 111 generated by chlorine feed system 103 and pH control feed system 104 as input. Feed system data 111 includes various data indicating operating parameters, operating characteristics, and / or performance information of chlorine feed system 103 and pH control feed system 104. Control module 110 also receives sensor data 113 generated by sensor module 112 as input. Control module 110 processes sensor data 113 and can determine the amount or volume of chemicals and / or chemical solutions to be supplied to the pool water to obtain desired water chemistry based on preset criteria. Control module 110 generates control data 115, which includes various data indicating the amount or volume of chemicals and / or chemical solutions to be supplied to the pool water. Control module 110 can send control data 115 to chlorine feed system 103 and pH control feed system 104, and thereby control chlorine feed system 103 and pH control feed system 104 to supply the said amount or volume of chemicals and / or chemical solutions.

[0031] Figures 3-12 Various aspects of a non-limiting embodiment of device 102 have been presented. However, it should be understood that device 102 is not limited to... Figures 3-12 The structure and components are represented in the text.

[0032] Now for reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 In various embodiments, device 102 includes a housing 106 comprising a cover 107 and a rear compartment 109. The cover is removable from the remainder of housing 106 to provide access to an internal compartment of housing 106 configured to store power (not shown) and a mounting plate or other mounting structure. For convenience, housing 106 is referred to herein as having a top, bottom, front, back, and sides. However, housing 106 is not limited to any particular shape or size.

[0033] Now for reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 The device 102 is presented with the cover 107 removed, showing a non-limiting embodiment of the internal components of the device 102, including a control module 110 and a sensor module 112 coupled therebetween via a data cable 114 for communication. Figure 5In this configuration, the first pH / ORP sensor assembly 116, the second pH / ORP sensor assembly 118, and the free available chlorine (FAC) sensor assembly 120 are functionally coupled to the sensor assembly port 194 of the sensor module 112. Unoccupied sensor assembly ports 194 can be sealed with port plugs 122. Figure 5 For clarity, sensor assemblies 116, 118, and 120, as well as port plug 122, are omitted.

[0034] Figure 7 An exploded view of housing 106 and its internal components is provided. In various embodiments, control module 110 and sensor module 112 may be secured within a compartment of housing 106 using fasteners such as, but not limited to, screws 124 and washers 126. An opening 108 in the bottom of housing 106 provides access to the compartment for coupling data cables, power cables, water pipes, etc., from external devices to control module 110 and / or sensor module 112.

[0035] Now for reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 An exploded view of exemplary components of control module 110 is provided. In this example, control module 110 includes a housing comprising a front portion 128 and a back portion 130, which can be coupled to define a compartment therebetween. A sealing member 134 (e.g., an O-ring) may be located between the front portion 128 and the back portion 130 to facilitate a watertight seal therebetween. The housing may include a top cap 136 and a bottom cap 138. The front portion 128 and the back portion 130 may be coupled using fasteners such as, but not limited to, screws 140.

[0036] The housing's compartments are configured to store electronics and associated components for the operation of the control module 110, including, for example, a main printed circuit board (PCB) 148, a processor 150, and a universal serial bus (USB) component 152. The main PCB 148 includes various circuits and components operatively coupled via a communication bus, which are configured in combination to provide communication between the various components of the control module 110, including but not limited to the processor 150 and the USB component 152. The communication bus may include any suitable physical or logical means of connecting computer systems and components. This includes, but is not limited to, direct hardwired connections, fiber optics, infrared, and wireless bus technologies.

[0037] The main PCB 148 includes a control module data port 164 configured to couple with a data cable (e.g., data cable 114) for communication with other electronic devices such as sensor module 112. An opening 154 in the bottom of the back panel 130 provides access to the control module data port 164. In this example, the control module data port 164 extends through the opening 154 and may partially cover an I / O cap 142 configured to be releasably coupled to the bottom of the housing of the back panel 130. A sealing member 144 (e.g., an O-ring) may be located between the I / O cap 142 and the bottom of the housing of the back panel 130 to facilitate a watertight seal therebetween. The I / O cap 142 may be coupled to the housing using fasteners (such as, but not limited to, screw 146). The control module 110 may include various other ports, including, for example, an Ethernet port 156 coupled to the housing of the back panel 130 using fasteners (e.g., screw 158, nut 160, and gasket 162).

[0038] Processor 150 may be any custom or commercially available processor, central processing unit (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), auxiliary processor among several processors associated with control module 110, semiconductor-based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip or chipset), any combination thereof, or any device typically used to execute instructions.

[0039] In some embodiments, the control module 110 may include a computer-readable storage device or medium, such as, but not limited to, volatile and non-volatile storage in read-only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM). The computer-readable storage device or medium may be implemented using any of a variety of known memory devices such as PROM (programmable read-only memory), EPROM (electric PROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable PROM), flash memory, or any other electrical, magnetic, optical, or combined memory device capable of storing data (some of which represents executable instructions used by the control module 110).

[0040] The instructions may include one or more separate programs, each comprising an ordered list of executable instructions for implementing logical functions. When executed by processor 150, the instructions cause control module 110 to receive and process signals and / or data, and to provide water treatment control services that can be configured to perform logic, calculations, methods, and / or algorithms for adjusting one or more characteristics, parameters, or other settings associated with at least one of the chlorine feed system 103 and / or pH control feed system 104.

[0041] USB component 152 includes various circuits, components, and optionally instructions configured to operatively couple the main PCB 148 to an external electronic device via a USB cable for communication therebetween. In addition to or as an alternative to USB component 152, control module 110 may include one or more other interface components including circuits, components, and optionally instructions configured to provide communication between control module 110 and an external electronic device via another physical or wireless connection.

[0042] The front portion 128 of the control module 110 may include a display screen 132 configured to present visual graphics thereon based on instructions and / or data received from the processor 150. The visual graphics may include, but are not limited to, information relating to the characteristics of the pool water, information relating to the operation of the device 102, and / or information relating to the operation of the chlorine feed system 103 and / or the pH control feed system 104. In some embodiments, the display screen 132 and / or the control module 110 may include a human-machine interface (HMI) configured to allow a user to interact with the control module 110 and / or provide user input to the control module.

[0043] In some embodiments, display screen 132 may be configured to provide an HMI via a touchscreen display thereon. In such embodiments, control module 110 may command and control the touchscreen display via various display and graphics system processes to: generate various graphical user interface (GUI) objects or elements, such as buttons, sliders, etc., used to prompt the user to interact with the HMI to provide user input; and activate corresponding functions and provide user feedback in response to user input received at GUI elements. In such embodiments, display screen 132 may include touch sensors and / or touch sensing systems configured to sense user input (e.g., contact between display screen 132 and a user's finger or stylus).

[0044] Now for reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 An exploded view showing non-limiting components of sensor module 112 is provided. In this example, sensor module 112 includes a housing comprising a main portion 176, a front portion 178, a back portion 180, a top portion 182, and a bottom portion 184, which can be coupled to define a compartment therebetween. In this example, the front portion 178, top portion 182, and bottom portion 184 are coupled to the main portion 176 using snap-fit ​​connectors, and the back portion 180 is coupled to the main portion 176 using fasteners such as screws 166. A sealing member 172 (e.g., an O-ring) may be located between the main portion 176 and the back portion 180 to facilitate a watertight seal therebetween.

[0045] Within the compartment, sensor module 112 includes a manifold having an inlet 186, an outlet 188, and a main conduit 190 providing fluid communication therebetween. Conduit branches 192 extend from the main conduit 190 and provide fluid communication therefrom to sensor assembly ports 194, each sensor assembly port being configured to receive a sensor assembly such that the sensor assembly contacts fluid flowing through the main conduit 190. Inlet 186 and outlet 188 may be extended using extension posts 200. Sensor module 112 may include an inlet sensor port 196 and an outlet sensor port 198 in fluid communication with inlet 186 and outlet 188, respectively. Sealing members 202 (e.g., O-rings) and caps 204 may be used to facilitate a watertight seal to the inlet sensor port 196 and outlet sensor port 198.

[0046] Additional components located within the compartment include a sensor module PCB 168, an illuminator 170, and a Hall effect sensor assembly 174. The sensor module PCB 168 includes various components and circuitry functionally coupled via a communication bus, configured to provide communication and operation between the control module 110 and the various components of the sensor module PCB 168. In this example, the sensor module PCB 168 includes five sensor module data ports 206, configured to couple to the control module data ports 164 of the control module 110 via data cables 114 to provide communication therebetween.

[0047] Illuminator 170 is configured to selectively emit light with wavelengths within the visible spectrum. Illuminator 170 may include various types of light-emitting elements, such as, but not limited to, one or more light-emitting diodes. In some embodiments, illuminator 170 includes a display screen, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD). In such embodiments, the display screen may be integrated or encapsulated within a transparent or translucent housing (such as a polycarbonate housing). In some embodiments, illuminator 170 is configured to selectively emit light of various wavelengths within the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum, i.e., emit light of various colors. In some embodiments, illuminator 170 is configured to selectively emit multiple colors of light according to, for example, the RGB color model.

[0048] The Hall effect sensor assembly 174 works in conjunction with the float pin 212 and float assembly 214, both located within the inlet sensor port 196, to measure the flow velocity of pool water passing through the manifold. To measure the flow velocity, the Hall effect sensor assembly 174 detects the position of the float assembly 214 on the float pin 212, which can then be converted into a corresponding flow velocity. More specifically, the float assembly 214 is configured to have sufficient buoyancy to float on the pool water passing through inlet 186. As the flow velocity of the pool water increases, the increase in the volume of pool water within the manifold causes the float assembly 214 floating thereon to move upward on the float pin 212. Conversely, as the flow velocity of the pool water decreases, the decrease in the volume of pool water within the manifold causes the float assembly 214 to move downward on the float pin 212. The float assembly 214 includes a magnetic material having a magnetic field detectable by the Hall effect sensor assembly 174. Movement of the float assembly 214 along the float pin 212 causes a change in the magnetic field strength detected by the Hall effect sensor assembly 174. These changes can be measured to determine the precise position of the float assembly 214, which can be converted into the flow rate of the pool water. In some embodiments, the Hall effect sensor assembly 174, the float pin 212, and the float assembly 214 are configured in combination to measure the pool water flow rate in the range of about 0 to 0.5 gallons per minute (e.g., about 0 to 1.9 liters per minute).

[0049] Now for reference Figure 12 An exploded view is provided showing non-limiting components of one of the sensor assemblies. In this example, the sensor assembly includes a probe 216, a PCB cap 218, a sensor PCB 220, a sealing member 222 (e.g., an O-ring), a tube cap 224, and a sensor cable 226.

[0050] The distal end of probe 216 is configured to contact pool water and sense the characteristics of the pool water and / or pool water properties from which these characteristics can be derived. The proximal end of probe 216 can be secured to the distal end of PCB cap 218. The distal end of cap 224 is configured to be secured to the proximal end of PCB cap 218 to define a compartment therebetween in which sensor PCB 220 can be stored. A sealing member 222 can be located between cap 224 and PCB cap 218 to provide a watertight seal therebetween. The distal end of sensor cable 226 can be inserted into an opening in the proximal end of cap 224. Probe 216, sensor PCB 220, and sensor cable 226 can be coupled within the compartment, and the proximal end of sensor cable 226 can be coupled to sensor module PCB 168 to provide communication therebetween. In some embodiments, sensor cable 226 can be coupled to sensor module PCB 168 via an M12 connector port.

[0051] It is worth noting that probe 216 and sensor PCB 220 can be specific to a particular sensor assembly, while PCB cap 218, sealing member 222, tube cap 224, and sensor cable 226 can be substantially the same for all sensor assemblies. For example, probe 216 and sensor PCB 220 for the first pH / ORP sensor assembly 116 and the second pH / ORP sensor assembly 118 can be configured to sense the pH / ORP of the pool water and generate sensor data indicating the sensed pH / ORP, respectively. In contrast, probe 216 and sensor PCB 220 for the FAC sensor assembly 120 can be configured to sense the FAC of the pool water and generate sensor data indicating the sensed FAC.

[0052] In some embodiments, each sensor component may include a unique identifier stored in its computer-readable storage. The identifier may include various information, such as, but not limited to, the type of sensor component (e.g., pH sensor, ORP sensor, etc.), the serial number of the sensor component, the manufacturing date of the sensor component, and / or the installation date of the sensor component into sensor module 112. In such embodiments, control module 110 may be configured to access and process the identifier of each of the sensor components, identify each of the sensor components by its corresponding identifier, and communicate and / or operate with each of the sensor components based on its identity. For example, sensor components of different types, brands, etc., may have specific calibrations, programming languages, etc., that differ from other sensor components. Therefore, control module 110 may be configured to operate normally with each of the sensor components based on the specific requirements of the sensor components. Additionally, the identifier feature provides the ability to couple a sensor component to any sensor component port 194, rather than requiring, for example, a dedicated sensor component port 194 for certain types, brands, etc. Similarly, the identifier feature can provide communication between any sensor module data port 206 and any control module data port 164, rather than dedicated sensor module data ports 206 and 164 for sensor components of certain types, brands, etc.

[0053] Sensor assemblies can be calibrated using various processes, including, for example, certain wireless devices such as wirelessly coupled (e.g., Bluetooth™) photometer water testing devices (e.g., the WaterLink® SpinTouch® photometer commercially available from LaMotte). In various embodiments, control module 110 can record the installation date of each of the sensor assemblies and provide lifecycle tracking and reporting. In various embodiments, control module 110 can record and track the calibration of the sensor assemblies, tracking raw (i.e., unprocessed or uncalibrated) probe measurements as well as calibrated probe values. In such embodiments, control module 110 can be configured to generate notifications instructing the replacement of one or more of the sensor assemblies or their probes 216. Such recommendations can be based on predetermined replacement intervals or performance degradation criteria.

[0054] In some embodiments, device 102 may be arranged as a component of a modular system that includes external modules operatively communicating with device 102. These external modules are installed in or functionally coupled to other components of system 100, such as chlorine feed system 103 and pH control feed system 104. External modules may include any combination of hardware, software, firmware, processing logic, and / or other components configured to perform their respective intended functions, such as monitoring local operating parameters of corresponding components of system 100, generating and sending component data indicating the monitored local operating parameters to device 102, and / or providing local actuation of the corresponding components in response to a control command received from device 102.

[0055] In various embodiments, control module 110 may receive and optionally store various component data from external modules, which indicate operating parameters of connected components of system 100, such as, but not limited to, component status, pump run time and cycle time, solenoid current consumption and activation, microcontroller (MCU) temperature, etc. Such component data may be displayed in real time, for example, on display screen 132. In some embodiments, component data may be analyzed for maintenance, optimization, and improvement purposes. In some embodiments, the analysis may be performed using various machine learning techniques.

[0056] In some embodiments, external modules provide local activation to their respective components. For example, an external module associated with the chlorine feed system 103 can provide activation of chlorine feed components, such as solenoid activation, booster pump activation, and / or dosing pump activation. In such embodiments, the external module may include various relays, contactors, and / or other electronic components configured to actuate the corresponding components in response to receiving an actuation command from the control device 102.

[0057] In some embodiments, each external module may include a unique identifier stored in its computer-readable storage. In such embodiments, control module 110 may be configured to access and process the identifier of each of the external modules, identify each of the external modules by its corresponding identifier, and communicate and / or operate together with each of the external modules based on its identity. In some embodiments, the connection between device 102, control module 110, and / or external modules may be agnostic. In some embodiments, control module 110 may record the installation date of the external modules, and provide fault notifications in response to the external modules disconnecting from device 102 and / or in response to communication errors.

[0058] In various embodiments, device 102 may be configured to communicate wired or wirelessly with a remote monitoring system 500 external to system 100 via communication network 400. In various embodiments, communication network 400 may incorporate various types of systems, such as public or private networks implemented according to Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol architecture or other conventional protocol standards. Encryption and mutual authentication technologies may be applied as appropriate to ensure data security. In such embodiments, remote monitoring system 500 may be configured to remotely monitor, analyze, and / or control one or more components of system 100. For example, remote monitoring system 500 may: receive system data from device 102 indicating one or more of the dosage and / or pool water characteristics of chlorine feed system 103 and pH control feed system 104; store system data in a database (locally or in a remote system); and determine and / or display various information based on and / or derived from the system data, such as cumulative dosage, system 100 performance standards, and / or pool water quality.

[0059] The system disclosed herein (including system 100 and device 102) provides a method for treating water. For example, Figure 13This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method 300 for treating water. Method 300 may begin at 310. In various embodiments, method 300 may be initiated in response to activation of a water treatment control device (e.g., device 102), water flow through the water treatment control device, or another initiating trigger. At 312, method 300 may include a sensor module (e.g., sensor module 112) that directs water flow from the water body to the water treatment control device. At 314, method 300 may include using sensor components of the sensor module to monitor characteristics of the water flow, including, for example, pH, redox potential, free available chlorine (FAC), and flow rate. At 316, method 300 may include using a control module of the water treatment control device to analyze the characteristics of the water flow relative to preset standards. At 318, method 300 may include using the control module to control a chemical feed system based on the analysis of the characteristics of the water flow to selectively supply one or more chemicals to the water body. Method 300 may end at 320.

[0060] The systems, apparatus, and methods disclosed herein offer various benefits superior to certain existing systems, apparatus, and methods. For example, components of conventional water treatment systems are typically operated individually, either manually or automatically, without communication between them. Therefore, conventional water treatment systems often require significant monitoring and intervention (i.e., monitoring equipment, periodic water testing, component inspections, etc.) to ensure that the components of the water treatment system operate as intended and achieve the desired water chemistry. The systems, apparatus, and methods disclosed herein provide a single water treatment control device (e.g., device 102) configured to monitor water chemistry, communicate with other components of the system (such as chemical feed systems), and control such other components to treat water. Therefore, the systems, apparatus, and methods disclosed herein achieve improvements in the field of water treatment.

[0061] Those skilled in the art will understand that the various illustrative logic blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. Certain embodiments and implementations have been described above in terms of function and / or logic block components (or modules) and various processing steps. However, it should be understood that such block components (or modules) can be implemented by any number of hardware, software, and / or firmware components configured to perform the specified functions. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability between hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their function. Whether such functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and the design constraints imposed on the system as a whole. Those skilled in the art can implement the described functions in different ways for each specific application, but such implementation decisions should not be construed as departing from the scope of the invention. For example, embodiments of the system or components may employ various integrated circuit components, such as memory elements, digital signal processing elements, logic elements, lookup tables, etc., which can perform various functions under the control of one or more microprocessors or other control devices. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments described herein are merely exemplary implementations.

[0062] The various illustrative logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented or performed using a general-purpose processor, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof, designed to perform the functions described herein. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but alternatively, it may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors combined with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

[0063] The steps of the methods or algorithms described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or a combination of both. The software module can reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, removable disk, CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to the processor such that the processor can read information from and write information to the storage medium. Alternatively, the storage medium can be integrated into the processor. The processor and storage medium can reside in an ASIC.

[0064] This document describes techniques and processes according to functional and / or logical block components, and with reference to symbolic representations of operations, processing tasks, and functions that can be performed by various computing components or devices. Such operations, tasks, and functions are sometimes referred to as computer-executed, computerized, software-implemented, or computer-controlled. In practice, one or more processor devices can perform the described operations, tasks, and functions by manipulating electrical signals representing data bits at memory locations in system memory, as well as other signal processing. Memory locations that hold data bits are physical locations having specific electrical, magnetic, optical, or organic properties corresponding to the data bits. It should be understood that the various block components shown in the figures can be implemented by any number of hardware, software, and / or firmware components configured to perform specified functions. For example, embodiments of the system or components can employ various integrated circuit components, such as memory elements, digital signal processing elements, logic elements, lookup tables, etc., which can perform various functions under the control of one or more microprocessors or other control devices.

[0065] When implemented as software or firmware, the various elements of the system described herein are essentially segments of code or instructions that perform various tasks. Programs or code segments can be stored on processor-readable media or transmitted via computer data signals embodied in a carrier wave on a transmission medium or communication path. "Computer-readable media," "processor-readable media," or "machine-readable media" can include any medium capable of storing or transmitting information. Examples of processor-readable media include electronic circuits, semiconductor memory devices, ROM, flash memory, erasable ROM (EROM), floppy disks, CD-ROMs, optical disks, hard disks, fiber optic media, radio frequency (RF) links, etc. Computer data signals can include any signal capable of propagating over a transmission medium such as an electronic network channel, optical fiber, air, electromagnetic path, or RF link. Code segments can be downloaded via computer networks such as the Internet, intranets, or LANs.

[0066] Certain functional units described in this specification are referred to as “modules” to more specifically emphasize their implementation independence. For example, a function referred to herein as a module can be implemented, in whole or in part, as hardware circuitry, including: custom VLSI circuitry or gate arrays, off-the-shelf semiconductors such as logic chips, transistors, or other discrete components. Modules can also be implemented in programmable hardware devices, such as field-programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic, programmable logic devices, etc. Modules can also be implemented in software executed by various types of processors. The identifying module of executable code can, for example, comprise one or more physical or logical modules of computer instructions, which can be organized, for example, into objects, procedures, or functions. However, the executable files identifying the module do not necessarily have to be physically together, but can include different instructions stored in different locations that, when logically combined, constitute the module and achieve the module's stated purpose. In practice, the module of executable code can be a single instruction or many instructions, and can even be distributed across several different code segments, across different programs, and across several memory devices. Similarly, operational data can be represented in any suitable form and organized within any suitable type of data structure. Operational data can be collected as a single dataset or distributed across different locations (including across different storage devices) and can exist at least in part as electronic signals on a system or network.

[0067] In this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or action from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any actual such relationship or order between these entities or actions. Numerical ordinal numbers such as "first," "second," "third," etc., merely identify different individuals among a plurality and do not imply any order or sequence unless specifically defined by the language of the claims. The order of the text in any claim does not mean that the process steps must be performed in a temporal or logical order according to such an order, unless specifically defined by the language of the claims. Process steps may be interchanged in any order without departing from the scope of the invention, provided that such interchange does not contradict the language of the claims and is not logically meaningless.

[0068] Furthermore, depending on the context, the use of terms such as "connected" or "coupled to" when describing the relationship between different components does not necessarily mean that there must be a direct physical connection between these components. For example, two components can be physically, electronically, logically, or in any other way connected to each other by one or more additional components.

[0069] As used herein, the term "substantially" means within 5% to take into account manufacturing tolerances. Furthermore, as used herein, the term "approximately" means within 5% to take into account manufacturing tolerances.

[0070] While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description of the invention, it should be understood that numerous variations exist. It should also be understood that the exemplary embodiments or multiple exemplary embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient roadmap for implementing the exemplary embodiments of the invention. It should be understood that various changes can be made to the function and arrangement of the elements described in the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. Finally, while the appended claims recite certain aspects considered to be associated with the invention, they are not necessarily intended to limit the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising: A sensor module configured to receive water flow from a body of water, the sensor module including sensor components configured to monitor characteristics of the water flow; as well as A control module, operatively communicating with the sensor module and a chemical feeding system configured to supply one or more chemicals to the water body, the control module being configured to: Receive sensor data from the sensor module that indicates the characteristics of the water flow; The characteristics of the water flow are analyzed relative to a preset standard; and The supply rate of one or more chemicals to the water body is adjusted based on the analysis of the characteristics of the water flow.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more chemicals supplied to the water body by the chemical feeding system include chemicals that affect the chlorine concentration and pH of the water body.

3. The device of claim 1 further includes a display screen configured to display visual graphics thereon, the visual graphics indicating information relating to the characteristics of the water flow, information relating to the operation of the device, and / or information relating to the operation of the chemical feeding system.

4. The device of claim 1 further includes an illuminator configured to emit light, the color or pattern of which indicates the state of the sensor module, the state of the chemical feed system, and / or the characteristics of the water flow.

5. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein each of the sensor components includes an identifier stored in its computer-readable storage, wherein the control module is configured to: Each of the sensor components is identified by its corresponding identifier; and It communicates with each of the sensor components based on its identity.

6. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the sensor module includes a flow meter configured to sense the flow velocity of the water flow or conditions from which the flow velocity can be derived.

7. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control module is configured to: Receive component data indicating one or more operating parameters of the chemical feeding system; and The component data is sent to the remote monitoring system.

8. A system comprising: A chemical feeding system is configured to supply one or more chemicals to a body of water; as well as Water treatment control equipment, including: A sensor module, configured to receive water flow from the water body, includes sensor components configured to monitor characteristics of the water flow; and A control module, operatively communicating with the sensor module and the chemical feeding system, is configured to, via one or more processors,: Receive sensor data from the sensor module that indicates the characteristics of the water flow; The characteristics of the water flow are analyzed relative to a preset standard; and The supply rate of one or more chemicals to the water body is adjusted based on the analysis of the characteristics of the water flow.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the water body is a commercial or residential water tank, and the one or more chemicals supplied to the water body by the chemical feeding system include chemicals that affect the chlorine concentration and pH of the water body.

10. The system of claim 8, further comprising an external module functionally coupled to the chemical feeding system, wherein the external module is configured to activate the function of the chemical feeding system in response to receiving a control command from the control module of the water treatment control device.

11. The system of claim 10, further comprising a remote monitoring system configured to receive system data indicating information generated by the sensor module relating to the characteristics of the water flow, information generated by the control module relating to the operation of the water treatment control equipment, and / or information generated by the external module relating to the operation of the chemical feed system.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the remote monitoring system is configured to analyze the system data to determine the cumulative dosage of the one or more chemicals supplied to the water body by the chemical feed system.

13. A method comprising: Sensor modules that guide water flow from the water body to the water treatment control equipment; The characteristics of the water flow are monitored using the sensor components of the sensor module. The characteristics of the water flow are analyzed relative to a preset standard using one or more processors in the control module of the water treatment control device. as well as Using the one or more processors of the control module, the supply rate of one or more chemicals selectively supplied to the water body is adjusted based on the analysis of the characteristics of the water flow.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the one or more chemicals supplied to the water body by the chemical feeding system include chemicals that affect the chlorine concentration and pH of the water body.

15. The method of claim 13, further comprising using the one or more processors of the control module to display visual graphics on a display screen of the water treatment control device, the visual graphics indicating information related to the characteristics of the water flow, information related to the operation of the water treatment control device, and / or information related to the operation of the chemical feeding system.

16. The method of claim 13, further comprising using an illuminator of the water treatment control device to emit light, the color or pattern of which indicates the state of the sensor module, the state of the chemical feed system, and / or the characteristics of the water flow.

17. The method of claim 13, further comprising utilizing the one or more processors of the control module to: Each of the sensor components is identified by a corresponding identifier stored in its computer-readable storage; and It communicates with each of the sensor components based on its identity.

18. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 17, further comprising determining the flow rate of the water flow based on data generated by at least one of the sensor components.

19. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 17, further comprising: The control module receives component data indicating one or more operating parameters of the chemical feeding system; as well as The one or more processors send the component data to the remote monitoring system.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising analyzing the component data by one or more processors of the remote monitoring system to determine the cumulative dosage of the one or more chemicals supplied to the water body by the chemical feeding system.

Images