Systems and methods for optical detection of algal concentration in recreational water bodies

Abstract

A system and method for optical detection of algae concentration in recreational water bodies are provided. In some examples, the algae detector includes: a flow unit disposed within a fluid passage of a housing configured to allow water to pass through the flow unit for algae detection; a light source configured to emit excitation light into the water at a predetermined wavelength through the flow unit, the predetermined wavelength being selected to cause the algae in the water to fluoresce; a photoelectric sensor configured to detect the amount of fluorescence emitted by the algae in response to the excitation light; and a closure configured to house the flow unit, housing, light source, and photoelectric sensor.

Description

Cross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 788,269, filed April 14, 2025, and U.S. Application No. 19 / 646,097, filed April 13, 2026, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to the detection of algae concentration in recreational water bodies, and particularly to systems and methods for detecting algae concentration in recreational water bodies using optical lenses and photoelectric components. Background Technology

[0003] This section provides background information in connection with this disclosure, which is not necessarily prior art.

[0004] Recreational water bodies (such as residential pools, spa pools, water features, ponds, etc.) are like any other water body; they can breed and cultivate algae, which is undesirable for users. Current methods for detecting algae in recreational water bodies are commercially unfeasible in terms of manufacturing costs, and maintenance in the recreational water industry is typically done in a more passive manner. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure provides an algae detector. In some examples, the algae detector includes: a flow unit disposed within a fluid passage of a housing configured to allow water to pass through the flow unit for algae detection; a light source configured to emit excitation light into the water at a predetermined wavelength through the flow unit, the predetermined wavelength being selected to cause algae in the water to fluoresce; a photoelectric sensor configured to detect the amount of fluorescence emitted by the algae in response to the excitation light; and a closure configured to house the flow unit, the housing, the light source, and the photoelectric sensor.

[0006] One aspect of this disclosure provides an offline loop algae detection system. In some examples, the system includes: a first connector configured to connect to a first portion of a pool recirculation system for recirculating water in a recreational water body; and a second connector configured to connect to a second portion of the pool recirculation system, the second portion having a pressure differential different from that of the first portion; wherein the housing of the algae detector includes an inlet port and an outlet port, the inlet port being configured to connect an inlet fluid of the fluid passage to the first connector, and the outlet port being configured to connect an outlet fluid of the fluid passage to the second connector.

[0007] One aspect of this disclosure provides an algae detection and pool cleaning system. In some examples, the system includes: a brush cleaner configured to clean the surface of a swimming pool containing a recreational water body; and a water pump attached to the brush cleaner and configured to pump water from the recreational water body through a water pump outlet; wherein the housing of the algae detector includes an inlet port configured to connect an inlet fluid passage to the water pump outlet.

[0008] One aspect of this disclosure provides an algae detection and pool cleaning system, in some examples of which the system includes: an automatic cleaner configured to automatically clean the surface of a swimming pool containing a recreational water body using an electrically powered cleaning element; a water pump attached to the automatic cleaner and configured to pump water from the recreational water body through a water pump outlet; wherein the housing of the algae detector includes an inlet port configured to connect an inlet fluid passage to the water pump outlet.

[0009] In some examples, the automatic cleaner is one of a robotic cleaner, a suction-side cleaner, and a pressure-side cleaner.

[0010] One aspect of this disclosure provides an algae detection and pool cleaning system. In some examples, the system includes: a self-propelled surface skimmer configured to clean the vicinity of the waterline surface of a recreational water body; and a water pump attached to the self-propelled surface skimmer and configured to pump water from the recreational water body through a pump outlet; wherein the housing of the algae detector includes an inlet port configured to connect the inlet fluid of the fluid passage to the pump outlet.

[0011] One aspect of this disclosure provides an algae detection and pool cleaning system. In some examples, the system includes: a floating surface skimmer configured to clean the vicinity of the waterline surface of a recreational water body; a water pump attached to the floating surface skimmer and configured to pump water from the recreational water body through a pump outlet; wherein the housing of the algae detector includes an inlet port configured to connect the inlet fluid of the fluid passage to the pump outlet.

[0012] One aspect of this disclosure provides a remote pool monitoring system. In some examples, the system includes: a pool monitoring device; and an algae detector including a wireless transceiver configured to wirelessly transmit an algae signal to the pool monitoring device, wherein the algae signal represents the amount of fluorescence detected by the photoelectric sensor.

[0013] In some examples, the wireless transceiver is a LoRa transceiver configured to transmit the algae signal to the pool monitoring device via a low-power wide area network, wherein the pool monitoring device includes a Wi-Fi transceiver configured to transmit pool monitoring data via a Wi-Fi network.

[0014] In some examples, the flow unit includes an emitting side facing the light source and a sensor side facing the photoelectric sensor, wherein the emitting side and the sensor side are orthogonal.

[0015] In some examples, the housing includes an inlet port connected near the inlet of the fluid passage and an outlet port connected near the outlet of the fluid passage.

[0016] In some examples, the enclosure, the housing, the inlet port, and the outlet port cooperate to provide an optically tight fit, which is configured to prevent ambient light from reaching the flow unit, the light source, and the photoelectric sensor.

[0017] In some examples, the inlet port and the outlet port are threadedly connected to the housing, and the inlet port and the outlet port include raised annular rings configured to secure flexible hoses or pipes.

[0018] In some examples, the photoelectric sensor is included as part of a sensor assembly having an indicator configured to output an indication of the amount of fluorescence detected by the photoelectric sensor.

[0019] In some examples, the indicator is a visual indicator comprising one or more light-emitting diodes visible from the outside of the enclosure via a light tube extending from the sensor assembly through the cover of the enclosure.

[0020] In some examples, the visual indicator is configured to: output a first indication when the amount of algae is below a first algae concentration threshold; output a second indication when the amount of algae is between the first algae concentration threshold and a second algae concentration threshold; and output a third indication when the amount of algae exceeds the second algae concentration threshold.

[0021] One aspect of this disclosure provides an algae detector. In some examples, the algae detector includes: a flow unit assembly comprising a flow unit disposed within a housing, wherein an internal channel of the flow unit is in fluid communication with an internal channel of the housing defining a fluid passage configured to guide water through the housing and the flow unit, wherein the housing includes an emitter opening to an emitter side of the flow unit and a sensor opening to a sensor side of the flow unit; and an emitter assembly comprising a light source configured to direct water at a predetermined wavelength through the emitter opening and the emitter side towards the flow unit. The system includes: an excitation light emitted within the flow channel, the predetermined wavelength of which is selected to cause algae in the water to fluoresce; a sensor assembly comprising a photoelectric sensor and a processor, wherein the photoelectric sensor is configured to detect fluorescence emitted by algae in response to the excitation light through the sensor opening and the sensor side, and the processor is configured to generate an algae signal based on the amount of fluorescence detected by the photoelectric sensor, wherein the algae signal represents the algae concentration in the water; and a closure configured to house the flow unit assembly, the emitter assembly, and the sensor assembly.

[0022] In some examples, the flow unit includes a body formed of an optically transmissive material, the body including an emitter sidewall and a sensor sidewall, the emitter sidewall being configured to allow excitation light from the light source to enter the fluid passage, and the sensor sidewall being configured to allow fluorescence emitted by the algae to exit the fluid passage toward the photosensor, wherein the emitter sidewall and the sensor sidewall are disposed on non-opposing walls of the body and orthogonally oriented to each other.

[0023] In some examples, the closure includes: a cover that is detachably attached to the body; and a seal disposed between the cover and the body to provide a watertight fit between the body and the cover.

[0024] One aspect of this disclosure provides a system for cleaning swimming pools containing recreational water bodies. In some examples, the system includes: a cleaner configured to clean at least one of the surface of the swimming pool and the water contained in the recreational water body; a water pump attached to the cleaner and configured to pump water from the recreational water body through a pump outlet; a remote pool monitoring device including a wireless pool transceiver configured to transmit pool monitoring data via a wireless network; and an algae detector including: a flow unit disposed within a fluid passage of a housing configured to allow water from the recreational water body to pass through the flow unit for algae detection; a light source configured to emit excitation light at a predetermined wavelength through the flow unit into the fluid passage, the predetermined wavelength being selected to cause algae in the water to fluoresce; a photoelectric sensor configured to detect the amount of fluorescence emitted by the algae in response to the excitation light; and a wireless detector transceiver configured to transmit data representing the amount of fluorescence to the wireless pool transceiver.

[0025] Other applicable areas of this disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description, claims, and drawings. The detailed description and specific examples are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0026] This disclosure will be more fully understood from the detailed embodiments and the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a functional block diagram illustrating an algae detection and pool cleaning system according to an example of this disclosure; Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing an algae detector according to an example of this disclosure; Figure 3 It is based on the example of this disclosure. Figure 2 A sectional view taken from line 3-3; Figure 4 This indicates that, according to the example of this disclosure Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of the enclosure of the algae detector shown; Figure 5 It is based on the example of this disclosure. Figure 4 A sectional view taken from line 5-5; Figure 6 This indicates that, according to the example of this disclosure Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of the algae detector housing shown; Figure 7 It is based on the example of this disclosure. Figure 6 The sectional view taken by line 7-7; Figure 8It is based on the example of this disclosure. Figure 2 The diagram shows a partial assembly of the algae detector. Figure 9 This indicates that, according to the example of this disclosure Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of the optical stacked housing of the algae detector shown; Figure 10 It is based on the example of this disclosure. Figure 9 A sectional view taken from line 10-10; and Figure 11 This is a flowchart of a method for detecting algae concentration according to an example of this disclosure.

[0027] In the accompanying drawings, reference numerals may be used repeatedly to identify similar and / or identical elements. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0029] This disclosure relates to a system and method for detecting algae concentration in recreational water bodies using optical lenses and photoelectric components. Specifically, a light-emitting diode (LED) having a specific wavelength (determined by the fluorescence properties of cyanobacteria) emits light through a lens that directs the light into a flow unit (having specific dimensions determined by optical simulation), through which water flows, and any cyanobacteria within the flow unit fluoresce. The fluorescence emitted by the cyanobacteria passes through an optical filter and another lens that directs the light into a photoelectric sensor, such as a photodiode. The photodiode receives the fluorescence and sends a signal to associated signal processing electronics, such as a processor and memory configured to perform the described functions, which process the signal into one of several signals that can be used to communicate with external devices to inform the user of the state of the water body.

[0030] The sensor portion is housed within a enclosure that blocks ambient light (wavelengths from approximately 10 nm to approximately 740 nm). This is because light from outside the enclosure would interfere with the wavelength of light emitted by the LED, thereby providing the processing electronics with erroneous readings from the photodiode. For example, the enclosure could be made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic with a wall thickness of at least 2 mm, although other sufficient wall thicknesses could also be used.

[0031] The system disclosed herein can output the following types of signals: 4-20 mA, RS485, cellular network, serial (SPI, I2C, UART), Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth (standard or BLE). These signals can be used to communicate with external mobile applications on smartphones (e.g., iOS and Android devices), as input to an automated system, or as input to an automated floor cleaning device. Because the system includes wireless connectivity, it can periodically test its connectivity and notify the user of any problems.

[0032] The deployment methods or embodiments disclosed herein include: in-line (return pipes connected to the recreational water body piping system), floating devices (integrated into a floating hull that travels throughout the recreational water body), and / or integrated into automated ground cleaning equipment.

[0033] The systems and methods disclosed herein include features that make the flow unit easy to clean, thereby increasing the service life of the flow unit and maintaining the reliability of the system's ability to accurately monitor recreational water bodies for cyanobacteria.

[0034] The logic used by the system to monitor recreational water bodies for cyanobacteria and appropriately alert or notify users of the status is accomplished by averaging the signal (obtained by sampling the water flow through the flow unit) over a defined time period. The sampling rate and the level of alert to users are determined first by the type of environment in which the system is installed, and secondly by the deployment method. Both the system environment and deployment method can be set by the user during installation or by the manufacturer during manufacturing.

[0035] In some examples, the system's status indicators are based on a "traffic light" type status hierarchy: Go, Caution, and Stop. The "Go" status informs the user that their recreational water body is operating at the desired level. The "Caution" status informs the user that they should take precautions to prevent further growth of cyanobacteria in the water. The "Stop" status informs the user that the water is at an undesirable level and that they should take measures to control the cyanobacteria growth. This status indication is determined within the logic underlying the system's operation, based on either the environment and deployment method set by the user at installation or by the manufacturer at manufacturing.

[0036] refer to Figure 1A system for detecting algae concentration within a swimming pool 100 containing a recreational water body 102, according to one aspect of this disclosure, can be observed. For illustrative purposes, a system with multiple algae detectors cooperating with multiple cleaners is shown to facilitate the detection of algae concentration in water including the recreational water body 102, and / or to facilitate this detection while cleaning the surface 106 of the swimming pool 100 and / or portions of the recreational water body 102. Although the system is shown as having multiple algae detectors and multiple cleaners, this disclosure is not necessarily limited to this, but rather fully contemplates the use of more or fewer algae detectors and / or more or fewer cleaners.

[0037] The system is shown as including a pool recirculation system 112 configured to clean and filter recreational water 102. For example, the pool recirculation system 112 includes a pump 114 configured to recirculate water from swimming pool 100 through a skimmer 116 and a main drain 118 for cleaning and filtration through a filter 120, after which the cleaned and filtered water is recirculated back to swimming pool 100 via a return flow member 122. Specifically, pump 114 is configured to pump water from swimming pool 100 through the pool recirculation system 112, and filter 120 is configured to remove contaminants, particulate matter, and other impurities from the water. The pool recirculation system 112 includes a control module 124 configured to selectively control the opening and closing of valves 126 and 128, and the operation of pump 114 and filter 120, according to a wide range of control methods.

[0038] The associated connections between the pool recirculation system 112 and the skimmer 116 and the main drain outlet 118 are shown in a functional and non-limiting manner to represent various features that can operate according to this disclosure to facilitate the recirculation of water from the swimming pool 100 for cleaning and filtration purposes. Cleaning and filtration are also shown in a functional and non-limiting manner as being performed using pump 114 and filter 120. This disclosure is equally applicable to other devices for recirculating or otherwise obtaining wastewater from the swimming pool 100 and subsequently returning it to clean water, including devices that include additional pumps and filters and / or other components to assist in cleaning and filtering the water or other fluids contained in the swimming pool 100.

[0039] In one example, the system's external loop algae detection device includes an algae detector 130 bridging the two ends of a pump 114. For example, the algae detector 130 is configured to detect the algae concentration in water being recirculated through a pool recirculation system 112. For example, the external loop algae detection system includes a first connector 134 and a second connector 136, the first connector being configured to connect a first portion of the pool recirculation system 112 to the inlet of the algae detector 130, and the second connector being configured to connect the outlet of the algae detector 130 to a second portion of the pool recirculation system 112. Through this bridging across the pump 114, the inlet and outlet of the algae detector 130 experience a pressure difference originating from the different water pressures at the inlet and outlet of the pump 114, which causes a portion of the recirculated water to flow through the algae detector 130.

[0040] The illustrated connection between the algae detector 130 and the pool recirculation system 112 advantageously allows the algae detector 130 to be added to the pool recirculation system 112 as an aftermarket component, i.e., as a component added after the installation of the pool recirculation system 112. This advantageous aftermarket installation of the algae detector 130 is shown in a non-limiting manner, as this disclosure fully considers the possibility of installing the algae detector 130 concurrently with the construction of the pool recirculation system 112. Additionally, the algae detector 130 is shown in a non-limiting manner as an off-line installation, i.e., installed outside the conduit used to circulate the recirculated water to the pump 114. This disclosure also fully considers the possibility of connecting the algae detector 130 inline relative to the pool recirculation system 112, i.e., within the conduit used to connect the recirculated water to the pump 114.

[0041] During operation, algae detector 130 is configured to determine the algae concentration in the water being recirculated through pool recirculation system 112 and report the algae concentration or its signal representation to pool monitoring device 140. For example, pool monitoring device 140 is included as part of control module 124 and configured to facilitate data communication from algae detector 130 to remote pool monitoring system 142. Remote pool monitoring system 142 includes, for example, a user interface, processing tools, controls, and other features associated with the control and monitoring processes related to control module 124. In some examples, remote pool monitoring system 142 is configured to interact with mobile devices, control panels, or other devices or interfaces associated with the owner or other entity responsible for cleaning or monitoring swimming pool 100.

[0042] For example, the remote pool monitoring system 142 is used as a human-machine interface (HMI) through which the pool owner can monitor the algae concentration level in the recreational water body 102 and receive an alert when the algae concentration exceeds a predetermined threshold. In one example, the remote pool monitoring system 142 is configured to display real-time algae concentration data received from the algae detector 130 and generate an alert notification to the pool owner or pool service technician when the algae concentration exceeds a first threshold indicating an alert condition or a second threshold indicating a stop condition requiring immediate remedial action (e.g., chemical treatment of the recreational water body 102).

[0043] The remote pool monitoring system 142 can also be configured to communicate with the control module 124 to automatically adjust the operation of pumps 114, filters 120, or valves 126, 128 in response to detected algae concentration levels, for example, by increasing recirculation flow or activating the chemical feeding system to introduce algaecide or chlorine into the recreational water body 102. In some examples, the remote pool monitoring system 142 is also configured to maintain a historical log of algae concentration measurements received from algae detector 130 to enable trend analysis and predictive maintenance scheduling of the swimming pool 100. For example, the remote pool monitoring system 142 is configured to allow the pool owner to set cleaning schedules, such as scheduling the entire recreational water body 102 to circulate through the pool recirculation system 112.

[0044] In one example, the system's algae detection and pool cleaning device includes a brush cleaner 150 configured to clean the surface 106 of the swimming pool 100. For example, the brush cleaner 150 includes bristles or other cleaning tools configured to be manually moved relative to the surface 106 via an elongated rod 152 or other connecting mechanism to achieve the purpose of cleaning the surface 106 and / or the surrounding water. An algae detector 154 is connected to the brush cleaner 150, or optionally to the rod 152, to facilitate the detection of algae concentration in the surrounding water. A water pump 156 is attached to the brush cleaner 150 and configured to pump surrounding water through a pump outlet 158 ​​to the inlet of the algae detector 154. The water pump 156 is shown as separate from the algae detector 154, but this is not limiting, as the water pump 156 may be included as part of the algae detector 154.

[0045] In similar algae detection and pool cleaning devices, the system includes an automatic cleaner 160 configured to automatically clean the surface 106 of the swimming pool 100 using electrically powered cleaning elements. For example, the automatic cleaner 160 includes one of a robotic cleaner, a suction-side cleaner, and a pressure-side cleaner, each of which is configured to move automatically relative to the surface 106 without manual operation by the user for the purpose of cleaning the surface 106 and / or nearby water. An algae detector 164 is connected to the automatic cleaner 160 to facilitate the detection of algae concentration in the nearby water. A water pump 166 is attached to the automatic cleaner 160 and configured to pump nearby water through a pump outlet 168 to the inlet of the algae detector 164.

[0046] In another algae detection and pool cleaning device, the system includes a self-propelled surface skimmer 170 configured to clean the vicinity of the waterline surface of the recreational water body 102. For example, the self-propelled surface skimmer 170 includes an electrically driven mechanism configured to propel the self-propelled surface skimmer 170 across the waterline surface of the recreational water body 102 to remove debris and contaminants from the waterline surface and / or nearby water. An algae detector 172 is connected to the self-propelled surface skimmer 170 to facilitate the detection of algae concentration in the nearby water. A water pump 174 is attached to the self-propelled surface skimmer 170 and configured to pump nearby water through a pump outlet 176 to the inlet of the algae detector 172.

[0047] In another algae detection and pool cleaning device, the system includes a floating surface skimmer 180 configured to clean the vicinity of the waterline surface of a recreational water body 102. For example, the floating surface skimmer 180 includes a float and a cleaning device. The float is configured to float on the waterline surface of the recreational water body 102, and the cleaning device is configured to remove debris and contaminants from the waterline surface and / or nearby water without self-propulsion. An algae detector 182 is connected to the floating surface skimmer 180 to facilitate the detection of algae concentration in the nearby water. A water pump 184 is attached to the floating surface skimmer 180 and configured to pump nearby water through a pump outlet 186 to the inlet of the algae detector 182.

[0048] Algae detectors 130, 154, 164, 172, and 182 may optionally include a wireless transceiver (shown by a wireless signal symbol) configured to wirelessly transmit algae signals or other data to pool monitoring device 140. For example, the algae signal represents the amount of fluorescence detected by the photoelectric sensor of algae detector 130, and pool monitoring device 140 and / or remote pool monitoring system 142 use the algae signal to determine the algae concentration in the water. For example, the wireless transceiver is configured to transmit the algae signal to remote pool monitoring system 142 in real time or at predetermined intervals (e.g., one second, one minute, or other intervals selected based on application requirements and the desired algae concentration monitoring frequency).

[0049] In one example, the wireless transceiver is configured to transmit algae signals as digital data packets representing the amount of fluorescence detected by a photoelectric sensor. For example, the digital data packets include a value representing the algae concentration in the water, a timestamp associated with the measurement, and an identifier associated with the algae detector 130, enabling the remote pool monitoring system 142 to identify the source of the algae signals when multiple algae detectors are deployed in the system. The wireless transceiver may also be additionally configured to receive control signals from the remote pool monitoring system 142, for example, to adjust operating parameters of the algae detector 130, such as measurement frequency, detection threshold, or indicator output settings.

[0050] In one example, the wireless transceiver is a LoRa transceiver configured to transmit algae signals to a remote pool monitoring system 142 via a low-power wide-area network. LoRa (which stands for Long Range) is a spread spectrum modulation technique derived from chirped spread spectrum, which enables long-range wireless communication with low power consumption. For example, the LoRa transceiver is configured to transmit algae signals at a frequency selected from the 915 MHz, 868 MHz, or 433 MHz bands, depending on regulatory requirements of the jurisdiction where the system is deployed. Using a LoRa transceiver in the algae detector 130 advantageously enables wireless communication between the algae detector 130 and the remote pool monitoring system 142 via the recreational water body 102.

[0051] Similarly, pool monitoring device 140 includes a transceiver configured to transmit pool monitoring data to a remote pool monitoring system 142 via a wireless or wired network, such as a Wi-Fi transceiver. For example, the remote pool monitoring system 142 is configured to receive algae signals from the LoRa transceiver of algae detector 130 via a low-power wide-area network and process the algae signals to determine the algae concentration in the water. Pool monitoring device 140 is also configured to transmit pool monitoring data representing algae concentration and other monitoring parameters via a Wi-Fi network through the Wi-Fi transceiver to a mobile device, control panel, or other device or interface associated with the owner or other entity responsible for cleaning or monitoring swimming pool 100.

[0052] The combination of LoRa and Wi-Fi transceivers in the remote pool monitoring system 142 advantageously provides a two-stage wireless communication architecture. In this architecture, a low-power long-range LoRa link is used to transmit algae signals from algae detectors 130, 154, 164, 172, and 182 to the remote pool monitoring system 142, and a Wi-Fi link is used to transmit pool monitoring data from the pool monitoring device 140 to user equipment and cloud-based services. This disclosure is not limited to LoRa and Wi-Fi as wireless communication technologies. Other wireless communication technologies are also considered and are fully within the scope of this disclosure, including but not limited to Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave, cellular networks (including 4G LTE and 5G), satellite, and other low-power wide-area network technologies (including Sigfox and NB-IoT).

[0053] See Figures 2 to 3 , Figure 2 A three-dimensional view of the algae detector 200 is shown. Figure 3 The following is shown according to one aspect of this disclosure. Figure 2 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the algae detector 200 taken from line 3-3. The algae detector 200 represents an algae detector that can be used to form the above-mentioned... Figure 1 The exemplary configuration of the components of the described algae detectors 130, 154, 164, 172, and 182 is understood to pertain to... Figure 1 The various devices described are not limited to Figures 2 to 3 The algae detector 200 shown. In other words, Figure 2 The algae detector 200 shown indicates that it is suitable for use as Figure 1 The algae detectors shown are from a wide range of devices, including 130, 154, 164, 172, and 182.

[0054] The algae detector 200 includes a flow unit assembly 202, a transmitter assembly 204, a sensor assembly 206, and a closure 208. These components cooperate to detect the amount or concentration of algae (if present) in a water sample collected from the recreational water body 102 or other water sources where algae detection is desired. Based on data provided or collected by the algae detector 200, algae in the water sample or other identifiable portions of the swimming pool 100 are determined and quantified according to the amount, concentration, or other algae indicators. For simplicity and in a non-limiting manner, the algae detected in the water sample are interchangeably referred to as algae concentration.

[0055] In operation, the algae detector 200 is configured to operate autonomously or communicate with the pool monitoring device 140 and / or the remote pool monitoring system 142 to determine algae concentration by subjecting a water sample to excitation light of a predetermined wavelength (selected to cause fluorescence in algae in the water) and detecting the amount of fluorescence emitted by the algae in the water sample in response to the excitation light. As those skilled in the art will understand, fluorescence is a photophysical phenomenon in which a substance absorbs electromagnetic radiation of a specific excitation wavelength and subsequently re-emits light in response. The difference between the excitation wavelength of the excitation light and the emission wavelength of the emitted fluorescence in response is called the Stokes shift and is a characteristic property of a given fluorescent substance.

[0056] As will be more fully understood from the following description, the algae detector 200 can be similarly configured to facilitate the detection of other substances in the recreational water body 102, such as, but not limited to, metals that may contaminate or otherwise discolor the swimming pool 100 and / or the recreational water body 102. This disclosure is primarily described with respect to the algae detector 200 primarily detecting algae, due to the long-standing need for the reliable and efficient use of this technology in recreational water bodies. Regarding algae detection, chlorophyll and phycocyanin are photosynthetic pigments naturally occurring in green and cyanobacteria and are well-characterized natural fluorescent molecules. These pigments have predictable and documented excitation and emission spectra. For example, chlorophyll a is typically excited in the blue region of the visible spectrum (approximately 430 nm to 450 nm) and emits fluorescence in the red region of the visible spectrum (approximately 680 nm to 700 nm).

[0057] By selecting an excitation wavelength that matches the absorption peak of the target photosynthetic pigment (i.e., the type of algae), and by pairing this excitation wavelength with a spectral filter that matches the emission wavelength of the pigment, the algae detector 200 is configured to selectively detect the fluorescence emission characteristics of green and cyanobacteria. The intensity of the fluorescence emission detected by the algae detector 200 is generally proportional to the concentration of the fluorescent substance present in the water sample, thereby enabling the system to quantify the algae concentration present in the recreational water body 102. Therefore, the algae detector 200 is described as involving the generation of excitation light at a predetermined wavelength, which is understood to be unnecessary to fix, can be changed during operation, and can otherwise be changed to facilitate the detection of different types of algae and / or other substances.

[0058] In one example, the flow unit assembly 202 includes a flow unit 210 disposed within a housing 212 configured to allow water to pass through the flow unit 210. The emitter assembly 204 includes a light source 216 configured to emit excitation light, and the sensor assembly 206 includes a photoelectric sensor 218 configured to detect fluorescence emitted in response to the excitation light in a water sample for algae detection. The closure 208 includes a cover 222 removably attached to the body 224. Optionally, a seal 226 is provided between the cover 222 and the body 224 to provide a watertight fit operable to waterproof the emitter assembly 204 and the sensor assembly 206 upon immersion in the recreational water body 102.

[0059] refer to Figures 4 to 5 , Figure 4 A perspective view of the closure 208 with the housing 212 removed is shown, and Figure 5 The following is shown according to one aspect of this disclosure. Figure 4 The closure 208 is shown in a cross-sectional view taken by line 5-5. As shown, the body 224 includes a through-hole opening 230 extending from one side through the closure 208 to the other side. This through-hole opening is configured to removably retain the housing 212, for example, using removable fasteners 232, 234 held within fastener retainers 236, 238 (see Figure 1). Figure 2 Alternatively, it can be retained by other means. The removability of housing 212 facilitates access to housing 212 for cleaning and / or replacement. Also as shown, body 224 may optionally include keyhole slots 240, 242 for mounting.

[0060] refer to Figures 6 to 7 , Figure 6 A perspective view of the flow unit assembly 202 is shown, and Figure 7 The following is shown according to one aspect of this disclosure. Figure 6The image shows a cross-sectional view of the flow unit assembly 202 taken from line 7-7. As shown, the housing 212 holds the flow unit 210 such that the internal channel 250 of the flow unit 210 is in fluid communication with the internal channel 252 of the housing 212, defining a fluid passage 254 configured to guide sampled water through the housing 212 and the flow unit 210. In the example shown, the housing 212 includes: an emitter opening 256 leading to the emitter side of the flow unit 210 and a sensor opening 258 leading to the sensor side of the flow unit 210; an end cap 262 attached to a mounting flange 264 (e.g., with adhesive or mechanical features); an inlet port 268 connected to the inlet of the fluid passage 254; and an outlet port 270 connected to the outlet of the fluid passage 254.

[0061] Inlet port 268 and outlet port 270 are shown, for illustrative purposes, as threadedly connected to end cap 262 and mounting flange 264. Inlet port 268 and outlet port 270 are also shown, for illustrative purposes, as including a raised annular ring configured to secure housing 212 with respect to flexible hoses, pipes, and other connecting elements that can be combined to facilitate water guidance with respect to housing 212. Regarding... Figure 1 The arrangement shown, for example, is such that inlet port 268 is configured to connect to first connector 134 or pump outlets 158, 168, 176, 186, and outlet port 270 is configured to connect to second connector 136 or output the received water back to recreational water body 102.

[0062] Go to Figure 8 A partial assembly diagram is shown to functionally illustrate the relative positioning of the flow unit assembly 202 with the emitter assembly 204 and the sensor assembly 206. As shown, the flow unit assembly 202 includes an emitter side facing the light source 216 and a sensor side facing the photodetector 218. The flow unit 210 includes a body formed of an optically transmissive material, which includes an emitter sidewall 274 and a sensor sidewall 276. The emitter sidewall is configured to allow excitation light from the light source 216 to enter the fluid passage 254, and the sensor sidewall is configured to allow fluorescence emitted by algae to exit the fluid passage toward the photodetector 218. In this exemplary configuration, the emitter sidewall 274 and the sensor sidewall 276 are disposed on non-opposing walls of the body and orthogonally oriented to each other.

[0063] The orthogonal orientation of the light source 216 with respect to the photodetector 218 helps to limit the excitation light from traveling directly toward the photodetector 218. In fluorescence-based detection systems of the type described herein, the excitation light emitted by the light source 216 is several orders of magnitude stronger than the fluorescence emitted by algae in response to the excitation light. If the light source 216 and the photodetector 218 are arranged diametrically opposite each other, the transmitted excitation light will travel directly toward the photodetector 218 and may drown out the relatively weak fluorescence signal, even with an optical filter placed between the flow unit 210 and the photodetector 218.

[0064] By orthogonally aligning the light source 216 and the photoelectric sensor 218, the direct optical path of the excitation light does not intersect with the photoelectric sensor 218, allowing the photoelectric sensor 218 to primarily receive fluorescence emitted laterally by algae within the fluid passage 254 in response to the excitation light. Optionally, the closure 208 and the housing 212 cooperate to define a light-tight housing configured to prevent ambient light from entering the closure 208 and reaching the flow unit 210, the emitter assembly 204, and the sensor assembly 206. As an example, the optically opaque material forming the closure 208 and the housing 212 is, for example, a black acrylonitrile butadiene styrene material having a transmittance of less than 0.1 percent per surface. This black acrylonitrile butadiene styrene material absorbs substantially all ambient light incident on the outer surface of the closure 208 and prevents ambient light from reaching the interior of the closure 208.

[0065] In some examples, emitter assembly 204 includes: a conical lens 278 that guides light from light source 216; and an emitter printed circuit board (PCB) 279 configured to support and electrically connect light source 216 and associated drive circuitry configured to control operation of light source 216. For example, conical lens 278 is an aspherical condenser lens configured to collimate excitation light into a focused beam. For example, emitter PCB 279 includes a current driver configured to supply regulated drive current to light source 216 at a level selected to cause light source 216 to emit excitation light at a predetermined wavelength and intensity selected to induce a detectable fluorescence response in algae present in water flowing through fluid passage 254. Emitter PCB 279 may also include thermal management components configured to dissipate heat generated by light source 216.

[0066] In some examples, sensor assembly 206 includes an indicator 280 configured to output an indication of the amount of fluorescence detected by photoelectric sensor 218. For example, indicator 280 is a visual indicator including one or more light-emitting diodes, extending from the outside of the closure via a light tube 282 extending from sensor assembly 206 through cover 222 (see...). Figure 3 The one or more light-emitting diodes are visible. By way of example, the visual indicator is configured to: output a first indication (e.g., a green light) when the amount of algae is below a first algae concentration threshold; output a second indication (e.g., a yellow light) when the amount of algae is between the first algae concentration threshold and a second algae concentration threshold; and output a third indication (e.g., a red light) when the amount of algae exceeds the second algae concentration threshold.

[0067] In some examples, sensor assembly 206 includes a spectral filter 284 and a cylindrical lens 286. The spectral filter 284 is configured to transmit the fluorescence emission wavelength while blocking a predetermined excitation wavelength of the excitation light emitted by the light source 216 to prevent the excitation light from reaching the photodetector 218. The cylindrical lens 286 is configured to collect fluorescence passing through the spectral filter 284 and focus the fluorescence onto an effective area of ​​the photodetector 218 to improve fluorescence collection efficiency and increase the sensitivity of the algae detector 200. The spectral filter 284 and the cylindrical lens 286 are disposed in the optical path of fluorescence traveling from the fluid passage 254 toward the photodetector 218, between the sensor sidewall 276 of the flow unit 210 and the photodetector 218.

[0068] In some examples, sensor assembly 206 includes a sensor PCB 288 comprising various electronic components, including a processor 289 and / or the aforementioned wireless transceiver, configured to generate algae signals. Sensor PCB 288 integrates the core electronic functions of algae detector 200, addressing the processing requirements associated with generating algae signals based on fluorescence detected by photoelectric sensor 218 and communicating the algae signals or other data in relation to pool monitoring device 140. Of course, sensor assembly 206 may include a variety of other components in addition to or in lieu of those described herein.

[0069] See Figures 9 to 10 , Figure 9 A perspective view of the optical stack housing 296 for the sensor assembly 206 is shown, and Figure 10 The following is shown according to one aspect of this disclosure. Figure 9A cross-sectional view of the optical stack housing 296, taken by line 10-10. As shown, the optical stack housing 296 is configured to hold the sensor PCB 288 with respect to the photoelectric sensor 218, cylindrical lens 286, and spectral filter 284. Optionally, the transmitter PCB 279 and the sensor PCB 288 are connected via electrical connector 298 (see...). Figure 2 Power supply. Electrical connector 298 is shown for illustrative purposes as a corresponding threaded direct current (DC) power connector configured to directly power the transmitter PCB 279 and sensor PCB 288 and / or charge the batteries included therein.

[0070] Go to Figure 11 A flowchart of a method for detecting algae concentration in recreational water using an algae detector 200 according to one aspect of this disclosure can be observed. At 300, the method includes: detecting algae concentration based on a fluid passage guiding water flow through a flow unit disposed within a housing; emitting excitation light from a light source into the water flow through the flow unit at a predetermined wavelength, the predetermined wavelength being selected to induce fluorescence in the algae in the water flow; detecting the amount of fluorescence emitted by the algae in response to the excitation light using a photoelectric sensor orthogonal to the light source with respect to the flow unit; generating an algae signal based on the amount of fluorescence detected by the photoelectric sensor; and outputting an indication of algae concentration based on the algae signal.

[0071] At 302, the method includes a reporting process for wirelessly transmitting an algae signal from a wireless transceiver of an algae detector to a remote pool monitoring device; processing the algae signal at the remote pool monitoring device to determine the algae concentration in the water flow; and transmitting pool monitoring data representing the algae concentration from the remote pool monitoring device to a mobile device or other user interface via a wireless network. In one example, the wireless transmission step includes transmitting the algae signal over a low-power wide-area network using a LoRa transceiver, and the pool monitoring data transmission step includes transmitting the pool monitoring data over a Wi-Fi network.

[0072] In 304, the method includes an evaluation process that compares the algae concentration represented by the algae signal with a first threshold and a second threshold, outputting a first indication when the algae concentration is below the first threshold, outputting a second indication when the algae concentration is between the first and second thresholds, and outputting a third indication when the algae concentration exceeds the second threshold, thereby enabling the pool owner or pool service technician to take appropriate remedial action in response to the detected algae concentration level. Optionally, the evaluation process includes sending a message or otherwise notifying the pool owner of the remedial action to be taken.

[0073] The above description is merely illustrative in nature and is not intended to limit this disclosure, its application, or its use. The broad teachings of this disclosure can be implemented in many forms. Therefore, while this disclosure includes specific examples, its true scope should not be so limited, as other modifications will become apparent from a study of the accompanying drawings, specification, and the following claims. It should be understood that one or more steps in the method may be performed in a different order (or simultaneously) without altering the principles of this disclosure. Furthermore, although each embodiment in the plurality of embodiments is described above as having certain features, any one or more of those features described with respect to any embodiment of this disclosure may be implemented in any other embodiment and / or combined with features of any other embodiment, even if such combination is not explicitly described. In other words, the described embodiments are not mutually exclusive, and combinations of one or more embodiments with another embodiment still fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0074] Spatial and functional relationships between elements (e.g., between modules, between circuit elements, between semiconductor layers, etc.) can be described using a variety of terms, including “connection,” “joint,” “coupled,” “adjacent,” “next to,” “on top of,” “above,” “below,” and “set.” Unless explicitly described as “direct,” when describing the relationship between the first and second elements in the foregoing disclosure, the relationship can be a direct relationship where no other intermediate elements exist between the first and second elements, or it can be an indirect relationship where one or more intermediate elements (spatial or functional) exist between the first and second elements. As used herein, the phrase “at least one of A, B, and C” should be interpreted as meaning logically (A or B or C) using the non-exclusive logical “OR,” and should not be interpreted as meaning “at least one of A, at least one of B, and at least one of C.”

[0075] In a diagram, the direction of an arrow (e.g., as indicated by the arrow) typically represents the flow of information (e.g., data or instructions) that the diagram is concerned with. For example, when element A and element B exchange various types of information, but the information transmitted from element A to element B is relevant to the diagram, the arrow can point from element A to element B. This unidirectional arrow does not imply that no information is transmitted from element B to element A. Furthermore, for information sent from element A to element B, element B can send a request or confirmation of receipt to element A regarding that information.

[0076] In this application, including the following definitions, the term "module" or "controller" may be replaced by the term "circuit". The term "module" may refer to, belong to, or include: Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC); digital, analog, or mixed-signal analog / digital discrete circuit; digital, analog, or mixed-signal analog / digital integrated circuit; combinational logic circuit; field-programmable gate array (FPGA); processor circuitry (shared, dedicated, or grouped) that executes code; memory circuitry (shared, dedicated, or grouped) that stores code executed by the processor circuitry; other suitable hardware components that provide the described functionality; or a combination of some or all of the above, for example, in a system-on-a-chip.

[0077] This module may include one or more interface circuits. In some examples, the interface circuits may include wired or wireless interfaces that connect to a local area network (LAN), the Internet, a wide area network (WAN), or a combination thereof. The functionality of any given module in this disclosure may be distributed across multiple modules connected via the interface circuits. For example, multiple modules may allow for load balancing. In another example, a server (also referred to as a remote or cloud) module may represent a client module performing some of the functionality.

[0078] As used above, the term "code" can include software, firmware, and / or microcode, and can refer to programs, routines, functions, classes, data structures, and / or objects. The term "shared processor circuitry" covers a single processor circuitry that executes some or all of the code from multiple modules. The term "group processor circuitry" covers a processor circuitry that, in combination with additional processor circuitry, executes some or all of the code from one or more modules. The reference to "multiprocessor circuitry" covers multiple processor circuitry on a discrete chip, multiple processor circuitry on a single chip, multiple cores of a single processor circuitry, multiple threads of a single processor circuitry, or a combination of the above. The term "shared memory circuitry" covers a single memory circuitry that stores some or all of the code from multiple modules. The term "group memory circuitry" covers a memory circuitry that, in combination with additional memory, stores some or all of the code from one or more modules.

[0079] The term "memory circuit" is a subset of the term "computer-readable medium." As used herein, the term "computer-readable medium" does not cover transient electrical or electromagnetic signals propagating through a medium (e.g., on a carrier wave); therefore, the term "computer-readable medium" can be considered tangible and non-transient. Non-limiting examples of non-transient, tangible computer-readable media include: non-volatile memory circuits (e.g., flash memory circuits, erasable programmable read-only memory circuits, or mask read-only memory circuits), volatile memory circuits (e.g., static random access memory circuits or dynamic random access memory circuits), magnetic storage media (e.g., analog or digital magnetic tape or hard disk drives), and optical storage media (e.g., CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs).

[0080] The apparatus and methods described in this application can be implemented, in whole or in part, by a dedicated computer created by configuring a general-purpose computer to perform one or more specific functions embodied in a computer program. The aforementioned functional modules, flowchart components, and other elements, as software specifications, can be converted into computer programs through the routine work of skilled technicians or programmers.

[0081] A computer program includes processor-executable instructions stored on at least one non-transitory, tangible, computer-readable medium. A computer program may also include or depend on stored data. A computer program can encompass a basic input / output system (BIOS) that interacts with the hardware of a special-purpose computer, device drivers that interact with specific devices of the special-purpose computer, one or more operating systems, user applications, background services, background applications, etc.

[0082] Computer programs may include: (i) descriptive text to be parsed, such as HTML (hypertext markup language), XML (extensible markup language), or JSON (JavaScript Object Notation); (ii) assembly code; (iii) object code generated from source code by a compiler; (iv) source code executed by an interpreter; and (v) source code compiled and executed by a just-in-time (JIT) compiler, etc. As an example only, source code can be written using syntax from languages ​​including: C, C++, C#, Objective-C, Swift, Haskell, Go, SQL, R, Lisp, Java®, Fortran, Perl, Pascal, Curl, OCaml, JavaScript®, HTML5 (Hypertext Markup Language 5th Edition), Ada, ASP (Active Server Pages), PHP (PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor), Scala, Eiffel, Smalltalk, Erlang, Ruby, Flash®, Visual Basic®, Lua, MATLAB, SIMULINK, and Python®.

Claims

1. An algae detector, comprising: A flow unit is disposed within a fluid passage of a housing, the housing being configured to allow water to pass through the flow unit for algae detection. A light source configured to emit excitation light into the water through the flow unit at a predetermined wavelength, the predetermined wavelength being selected to cause algae in the water to fluoresce; A photoelectric sensor configured to detect the amount of fluorescence emitted by the algae in response to the excitation light; as well as A closure configured to house the flow unit, the housing, the light source, and the photoelectric sensor.

2. The algae detector according to claim 1, wherein, The flow unit includes an emitting side facing the light source and a sensor side facing the photoelectric sensor, wherein the emitting side and the sensor side are orthogonal.

3. The algae detector according to claim 1, wherein, The housing includes an inlet port and an outlet port, the inlet port being connected near the inlet of the fluid passage and the outlet port being connected near the outlet of the fluid passage.

4. The algae detector according to claim 3, wherein, The closure, the housing, the inlet port, and the outlet port cooperate to provide an optically tight fit, which is configured to prevent ambient light from reaching the flow unit, the light source, and the photoelectric sensor.

5. The algae detector according to claim 3, wherein, The inlet port and the outlet port are threadedly connected to the housing, and the inlet port and the outlet port include a raised annular ring configured to secure a flexible hose or pipe.

6. The algae detector according to claim 1, wherein, The photoelectric sensor is included as part of a sensor assembly having an indicator configured to output an indication of the amount of fluorescence detected by the photoelectric sensor.

7. The algae detector according to claim 6, wherein, The indicator is a visual indicator comprising one or more light-emitting diodes, which are visible from the outside of the enclosure via a light tube extending from the sensor assembly through the cover of the enclosure.

8. The algae detector according to claim 7, wherein, The visual indicator is configured to: output a first indication when the amount of algae is below a first algae concentration threshold; output a second indication when the amount of algae is between the first algae concentration threshold and a second algae concentration threshold; and output a third indication when the amount of algae exceeds the second algae concentration threshold.

9. An external loop algae detection system, comprising: A first connector, configured to connect to a first part of a pool recirculation system for recirculating water in recreational water bodies; A second connector is configured to connect to a second part of the pool recirculation system, the second part having a pressure difference different from that of the first part; as well as According to claim 1, the algae detector, wherein the housing includes an inlet port and an outlet port, the inlet port being configured to connect the inlet fluid of the fluid passage to the first connector, and the outlet port being configured to connect the outlet fluid of the fluid passage to the second connector.

10. An algae detection and pool cleaning system, comprising: A brush cleaner, the brush cleaner being configured to clean the surface of a swimming pool containing a recreational body of water; A water pump, attached to the brush cleaner, and configured to pump water from the recreational water body through a water pump outlet; as well as According to claim 1, the algae detector, wherein the housing includes an inlet port configured to connect the inlet fluid of the fluid passage to the water pump outlet.

11. An algae detection and pool cleaning system, comprising: An automatic cleaner configured to automatically clean the surface of a swimming pool containing a recreational body of water using an electrically powered cleaning element; A water pump, attached to the automatic cleaner, configured to pump water from the recreational water body through a water pump outlet; as well as According to claim 1, the algae detector, wherein the housing includes an inlet port configured to connect the inlet fluid of the fluid passage to the water pump outlet.

12. The algae detection and pool cleaning system according to claim 11, wherein, The automatic cleaner is one of a robotic cleaner, a suction-side cleaner, and a pressure-side cleaner.

13. An algae detection and pool cleaning system, comprising: A self-propelled surface skimmer is configured to clean near the waterline surface of a recreational water body. A water pump is attached to the self-propelled surface skimmer and is configured to pump water from the recreational water body through a pump outlet. as well as According to claim 1, the algae detector, wherein the housing includes an inlet port configured to connect the inlet fluid of the fluid passage to the water pump outlet.

14. An algae detection and pool cleaning system, comprising: A floating surface skimmer is configured to clean near the waterline surface of a recreational water body. A water pump is attached to the floating surface skimmer and is configured to pump water from the recreational water body through a pump outlet. as well as According to claim 1, the algae detector, wherein the housing includes an inlet port configured to connect the inlet fluid of the fluid passage to the water pump outlet.

15. A remote water tank monitoring system, comprising: Water tank monitoring equipment; as well as According to claim 1, the algae detector further includes a wireless transceiver configured to wirelessly transmit algae signals to the pool monitoring device, wherein the algae signals represent the amount of fluorescence detected by the photoelectric sensor.

16. The remote water tank monitoring system according to claim 15, wherein, The wireless transceiver is a LoRa transceiver, which is configured to transmit the algae signal to the pool monitoring device via a low-power wide area network. The pool monitoring device includes a Wi-Fi transceiver, which is configured to transmit pool monitoring data via a Wi-Fi network.

17. An algae detector, comprising: A flow unit assembly includes a flow unit disposed within a housing, wherein an internal channel of the flow unit is in fluid communication with an internal channel of the housing to define a fluid passage, the fluid passage being configured to guide water through the housing and the flow unit, wherein the housing includes a transmitter opening leading to a transmitter side of the flow unit and a sensor opening leading to a sensor side of the flow unit. An emitter assembly including a light source configured to emit excitation light at a predetermined wavelength through the emitter opening and the emitter side into the fluid passage, the predetermined wavelength being selected to cause algae in the water to fluoresce; A sensor assembly including a photoelectric sensor and a processor, wherein the photoelectric sensor is configured to detect fluorescence emitted by the algae in response to excitation light through the sensor opening and the sensor side, and the processor is configured to generate an algae signal based on the amount of fluorescence detected by the photoelectric sensor, wherein the algae signal represents the algae concentration in the water; and A closure configured to house the flow unit assembly, the transmitter assembly, and the sensor assembly.

18. The algae detector according to claim 17, wherein, The flow unit includes a body formed of an optically transmissive material, the body including an emitter sidewall and a sensor sidewall, the emitter sidewall being configured to allow excitation light from the light source to enter the fluid passage, and the sensor sidewall being configured to allow fluorescence emitted by the algae to exit the fluid passage toward the photoelectric sensor, wherein the emitter sidewall and the sensor sidewall are disposed on non-opposing walls of the body and orthogonally oriented to each other.

19. The algae detector according to claim 17, wherein, The closure includes: a cover detachably attached to the body; and a seal disposed between the cover and the body to provide a watertight fit between the body and the cover.

20. A system for cleaning a swimming pool containing a recreational water body, comprising: A cleaner configured to clean at least one of the surface of the swimming pool and the water contained in the recreational water body; A water pump, attached to the cleaner, and configured to pump water from the recreational water body through a pump outlet; A remote water tank monitoring device, the remote water tank monitoring device including a wireless water tank transceiver, the wireless water tank transceiver being configured to transmit water tank monitoring data via a wireless network; as well as An algae detector comprising: a flow unit disposed within a fluid passage of a housing configured to allow water from a recreational water body to pass through the flow unit for algae detection; a light source configured to emit excitation light at a predetermined wavelength through the flow unit into the fluid passage, the predetermined wavelength being selected to cause algae in the water to fluoresce; a photoelectric sensor configured to detect the amount of fluorescence emitted by the algae in response to the excitation light; and a wireless detector transceiver configured to transmit data representing the amount of fluorescence to a wireless pool transceiver.

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