SPA unit with immersive experience

Abstract

A spa unit may include a memory storing computer-executable instructions, a spa component, a communications unit, and a controller. The controller can be in communication with the memory, the spa component, and the communications unit. The computer-executable instructions, when executed by the controller, can cause the controller to receive an indication of a signal strength between the communications unit and a wireless device, wherein the wireless device is associated with a user profile; determine that the signal strength exceeds a threshold signal strength; and adjust operation of the spa component in accordance with the user profile.

Description

SPA UNIT WITH IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 609,789, entitled “SPA UNIT WITH IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE” and filed on December 13, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to immersive experience systems for spa units, hot tubs, and / or swimming spas, etc.BACKGROUND

[0003] Spa units, hot tubs, and / or swimming spas, etc., can provide a relaxing experience to users. Conventional spa units can include components, such as spa jets, speakers, and / or lights, the operational settings of which can be adjusted individually. Adjusting the operational settings of the spa unit components may be difficult, time consuming, and / or inefficient. For instance, the operational settings of a spa unit may need to be changed constantly to accommodate different users and / or desired experiences. Thus, there is a need for spa units, hot tubs, and / or swimming spas, that can provide easy, quick, and efficient adjustment of the spa’s operational settings.SUMMARY

[0004] The present disclosures relates to systems, devices, and methods for controlling a spa unit according to one or more operation modes associated to a user profile. In some cases, a spa unit can include a memory storing computer-executable instructions. The computer-executable instructions, when executed by the controller, can cause a controller to control operations of one or more spa components according to a user profile associated with a user device. The one or more spa components can include one of a jet pump, a speaker, a light, a heater, and / or an infrared (IR) light therapy system. In some cases, the controller can cause the one or more spa components to operate according to a user profile associated with the user device closest to the spa unit. The controller can cause the one or more spa components to operate according to a user profile associated with the highest ranking user device from a predefined hierarchy. The controller maycease operation of the spa unit according to a user profile upon the occurrence of a trigger event and / or upon completion of a cycle associated with the user profile.

[0005] There is provided in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure a spa unit. The spa unit can include a memory storing computer-executable instructions; a spa component; a communications unit ; and / or a controller in communication with the memory, the spa component, and the communications unit. The computer-executable instructions, when executed by the controller, can cause the controller to: receive an indication of a signal strength between the communications unit and a wireless device, wherein the wireless device is associated with a user profile; determine that the signal strength exceeds a threshold signal strength; and / or adjust operation of the spa component in accordance with the user profile.

[0006] In some aspects, the spa unit can include a sensor configured to detect an occurrence of a trigger event of the spa unit. The computer-executable instructions, when executed, can cause the controller to adjust operation of the spa component in accordance with the user profile in response to the determination that the signal strength exceeds the threshold signal strength and in response to detection of the trigger event. In some cases, the sensor can include a cover sensor. In some aspects, the spa component can include one of a jet pump, a speaker, a light, a heater, and / or an infrared (IR) light therapy system. In some aspects, the computer-executable instructions, when executed by the controller, can cause the controller to cease operation of the spa unit upon completion of a cycle of at least one operation mode associated with the user profile.

[0007] There is also provided in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, a computer-implemented method for operating a spa unit according to at least one operation mode. The computer-implemented method can include receiving an indication of a signal strength between a communications unit of the spa unit and a user device. The user device can be associated with the at least one operation mode. The computer-implemented method can include determining whether the signal strength exceeds a threshold signal strength; and / or adjusting operation of at least one spa component in accordance with the at least one operation mode. The computer-implemented method may adjust operation of at least one spa component in accordance with the at least one operation mode when the signal strength exceeds the threshold signal strength.

[0008] In some aspects, the computer-implemented method can include pairing the user device to the spa unit. Pairing the user device to the spa unit further can include pairing theuser device to the spa unit via a wireless network. In some cases, the techniques the wireless network can include one of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and / or cellular. In some aspects, the computer- implemented method can include adjusting the at least one operation mode. Adjusting the at least one operation mode can include adjusting an operational setting of the at least one spa component. In some cases, the at least one spa component can include one of a jet pump, a speaker, a light, a heater, and / or an infrared (IR) light therapy system. In some aspects, determining that the signal strength exceeds the threshold signal strength further can include measuring one of a received signal strength indicator (RSSI), a signal to noise ratio (SNR), and / or a signal to interference and noise ratio (SINR).

[0009] The computer-implemented method can include detecting an occurrence of a trigger event of the spa unit. In some cases, the trigger event can include a spa cover being opened. In some aspects, adjusting operation of the at least one spa component in accordance with the at least one operation mode can occur in response to occurrence of the trigger event. The computer- implemented method can cease operation of the spa unit upon completion of a cycle of the at least one operation mode. In some cases, completion of the cycle of the at least one operation mode can occur after a predefined period of time.

[0010] There is also provided in accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, a non-transitory, computer-readable medium including computer-executable instructions for operating a spa unit according to at least one operation mode. The computerexecutable instructions, when executed by a computer system, can cause the computer system to: determine a presence of a user device; and / or receive an indication of a signal strength between a communications unit of the spa unit and the user device. The user device can be associated with the at least one operation mode. The computer-executable instructions, when executed by the computer system, can cause the computer system to determine, based on the signal strength, that the user device is within a predefined distance from the spa unit; and / or adjust operation of at least one spa component in accordance with the at least one operation mode if the user device is within the predefined distance from the spa unit.

[0011] In some aspects, the computer-executable instructions, when executed, can cause the computer system to detect an occurrence of a trigger event of the spa unit. The computerexecutable instructions, when executed, can cause the computer system to cease operation of the spa unit upon completion of a cycle of the at least one operation mode.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Throughout the drawings, reference numbers may be re-used to indicate correspondence between referenced elements. The drawings are provided to illustrate example embodiments descried herein and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of an operating environment in which a controller controls operations of one or more spa components according to a user profile associated with a wireless device.

[0014] FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate a chart with examples of user profile settings.

[0015] FIG. 2D illustrates another chart with examples of user profile settings.

[0016] FIG. 3 illustrates a flow diagram for pairing a wireless device to a spa system and customizing a user profile.

[0017] FIG. 4 illustrates a plumbing circuit for a spa unit.

[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates is a flow diagram illustrating the operations performed by the components of a spa operating environment to operate a spa according to one or more operation modes.

[0019] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram depicting an example, spa automated operation mode selector routine, according to one embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Wirelessly controlling a spa unit, hot tub, and / or swimming spa, etc., using a user device may require pairing the user device to the spa unit hot tub, and / or swimming spa. However, it can become problematic if a user attempts to pair multiple user devices to the spa unit. For example, if the spa unit is paired to a first user device and a user attempts to pair a second user device with the spa unit, the spa unit may automatically unpair the first user device. Thus, the previously paired first user device may lose control of and / or access to controlling the spa unit. This may prevent the spa unit from operating according to one or more user profiles associated with the first user device.

[0021] Further, even if the spa unit can be paired with two or more user devices, the spa unit may categorize one user device as a primary device and other user devices as secondary devices. If the spa unit detects the primary device, the primary device may control the spa unit even if the primary device is far away from the spa unit and there is a paired secondary device thatis closer to the spa unit (which might indicate that a second user associated with the secondary device is using the spa). Conventional spa units may require users to adjust the operational settings of the spa unit every time the user wants to use the spa unit, which can be time consuming and / or dissuade users from actually using the spa unit.

[0022] A spa unit can include a control system for controlling one or more spa devices (e.g., jet pumps, waterfall, lights, speakers, etc.). In some cases, the control system can be in communication with one or more sensors. The control system described herein can include wireless communication capabilities to detect and / or identify the presence of a wireless communication device (e.g., a user device). For example, the control system can include a wireless transceiver which can be in communication with a user device such as a cellphone, a tablet, a computer, a wearable, a watch, a headset, etc. In some cases, the control system can change the operational settings of the one or more spa devices according to user profile settings associated with a wireless communication device. The control system can change the operational settings of the one or more spa devices, for example, upon detecting the presence of a wireless communication device, where the operational settings may be changed in accordance with the user profile settings associated with the wireless communication device for which a presence was detected. In particular, the wireless communication device may be previously paired with the spa unit e.g., with the control system), and the wireless communication device and the control system may establish a wireless connection (e.g., a Bluetooth connection, a Wi-Fi connection, an near field communication (NFC) connection, a cellular connection, etc.) when the wireless communication device is near the spa unit (e.g., within a range of transmission of the wireless transceiver of the control system). The control system may detect the presence of the wireless communication device and cause the operational settings of the one or more spa devices to change if a signal strength of the wireless connection (e.g. , received signal strength indicator (RSSI), signal to noise ratio (SNR), signal to interference and noise ratio (SINR), etc.) is above a threshold strength level. Generally, the signal strength may indicate a distance (e.g., 2 feet, 3 feet, 4 feet, 5 feet, 8 feet, 10 feet, etc.) within which the wireless communication device is to the spa unit. This can beneficially allow a spa unit to identify a user’s preferred operational settings and / or operate the one or more spa components according to the user’s preferred operational settings. Although reference is made herein to a spa unit, the systems and / or components described herein can be included in otherappliances and / or applied to other environments including but not limited to hot tubs, swim spas, pools, etc.

[0023] The spa units described herein can allow one or more user devices to easily control operation of the spa unit. For example, the spa units described herein can allow one or more devices to be paired to the spa unit to allow each device to control the spa unit according to one or more user profiles associated with the one or more devices. When paired to more than one user device, the spa unit can operate according to an order based on characteristics of the user devices. For example, the spa unit may operate according to the one or more user profiles associated with the user device closest to the spa unit. In some cases, the spa unit the spa unit may operate according to the one or more user profiles associated with the user device with the highest ranking in a predefined hierarchy. This can beneficially allow the spa unit to operate according one or more user profiles associated with one or more user devices while allowing the one or more user devices to remain paired to the spa unit. The spa units described herein can also operate according to one or more user profiles upon detecting the presence of the user device. This can beneficially allow the spa unit to be ready for use according to the one or more user profiles before users access the spa unit.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an operating environment 100 in which a spa unit 120 can be in communication with a wireless device 130 via a wireless network (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, cellular, etc.). The spa unit 120 can include a controller 121 (also referred herein to as a processor), a memory 122, a communications unit 123, one or more spa components 124, and one or more sensors 125. In some cases, the wireless device 130 can include a cellphone, a tablet, a smart watch, a computer, etc. In some cases, the controller 121 can execute one or more instructions stored in the memory 122. The one or more instructions stored in the memory 122 can, when executed, cause the controller 121 to detect the presence (or non-presence) of a wireless device 130 based on signal strength data provided by the communications unit 123 and / or operate the one or more spa components 124 according to a predefined operational mode and / or user profile settings.

[0025] The one or more spa components 124 can include heaters, pumps, lights, jet pumps, speakers, among others. A user profile can be customized to operate some or all of the one or more spa components 124 according to a user’s preferences for an immersive experience. Theone or more sensors 125 can include temperature sensors, cover detections systems, fill sensors, among others.

[0026] The communications unit 123 can include a transceiver in communication with the controller 121 and configured to detect the presence of a wireless device 130 and / or communicate with the wireless device 130. For example, the communication unit 123 can communicate with the wireless device 130 via cellular, Wi-Fi, or other wireless communication. In some cases, the communication unit 123 can communicate with the wireless device 130 via Bluetooth. As described herein, a user may have previously initiated a pairing operation to pair a wireless device 130 with the spa unit 120 (e.g., the controller 121). In response to the pairing operation completing successfully, the wireless device 130 and the controller 121 e.g., via the communications unit 123) may automatically establish a wireless connection when the wireless device 130 is in range of signals transmitted by the communications unit 123. The communications unit 123 or controller 121 may detect the presence of the wireless device 130 upon the wireless connection being established (and the signal strength exceeding a threshold level). Upon detecting the presence of a wireless device 130 directly or via an indication received from the communications unit 123, the controller 121 can operate the spa component(s) 124 in accordance with user profile settings associated with the specific wireless device 130. As will be described in more detail below, the user profile settings can include operating instructions for some or all of the one or more spa components 124.

[0027] The user profile settings can be customized on the wireless device 130 and / or the spa unit 120. For example, the wireless device 130 may include a user interface for selecting and / or modifying the operational settings associated with a user profile. In some cases, the spa unit 120 may be provided with a screen where a user interface can be used to select and / or modify the operational settings associated with a user profile. As a way of example, a first user profile can be customized so that only a subset of the one or more spa components 124 are activated when the controller 121 detects the presence of a wireless device 130 associated with the first user profile. In some cases, a user profile can be customized to control the intensity (e g., high, medium, low) of the one or more spa components 124.

[0028] The controller 121 can cause the one or more spa components 124 to operate according to the user profile settings upon the communications unit 123 (or the controller 121 itself via signal strength data provided by the communications unit 123) detecting the presence of awireless device 130 (which may be indicated by a signal strength of the wireless connection between the communications unit 123 and the wireless device 130 exceeding a threshold strength). For example, upon determining that the RSSI of a wireless connection between the communications unit 123 and the wireless device 130 is 70 (out of 100), the controller 121 can operate the one or more spa components 124 according to the user profile settings associated with the wireless communication device 130 detected by the communication unit 123 or controller 121. In some cases, the controller 121 can operate and / or adjust the operational settings of the one or more spa components 124 based on the signal strength between the communications unit 123 and the wireless device 130. For example, the controller 121 can activate and / or increase the intensity of a spa component 124 (e.g., the lights) as the signal strength between the communications unit 123 and the wireless device 130 increases (e.g., as a user gets closer to the spa unit 120). As another example, the controller 121 can deactivate and / or decrease the intensity of a spa component 124 (e.g., the lights) as the signal strength between the communications unit 123 and the wireless device 130 decreases (e.g., as a user gets farther away from the spa unit 120).

[0029] In some cases, the controller 121 can be configured to cause the one more spa components 124 to operate according to the operating instructions associated with a user profile upon the occurrence of a trigger event. The trigger event can include an event as detected by the one or more sensors 125. For example, the controller 121 can cause the one or more spa components 124 to operate according to a user profile based on a position of a spa cover of the spa unit 120 as detected by the one or more sensors 125. For example, opening, removing, or detaching a cover of the spa unit 120 may indicate that a user intends to use the spa unit 120 soon thereafter. Thus, opening, removing, and / or detaching the spa cover of the spa unit 120 may cause the controller 121 to operate the one or more spa components 124 according to the user profile settings associated with a wireless device 130 as detected by the communications unit 123 or controller 121. As another example, closing, applying, or attaching a cover of the spa unit 120 may indicate that a user no longer intends to use the spa unit 120. Thus, upon the one or more sensors 125 detecting that the spa cover of the spa unit 120 has been closed, the controller 121 can cease operation of and / or deenergize the one or more spa components 124 (even if the communications unit 123 detects the wireless device 130).

[0030] The controller 121 can cease operation of and / or deenergize the one or more spa components 124 (even if the communications unit 123 detects the wireless device 130) when,for example, a cycle of the operating instructions associated with a user profile is completed. For instance, the operation instructions associated with a user profile can include instructions to operate the spa unit for a predefined period of time (e.g., 20 min, 30 min, 1 hour, 2 hours, etc.). Thus, upon expiration of the predefined period of time, or cycle, the controller can cease operation of and / or deenergize the one or more spa components 124. A cycle may also be completed when the wireless device 130 is no longer within a predefined threshold distance from the spa unit 120.

[0031] Although reference is made to the trigger event including an event in which a cover sensor detects a condition, the trigger event can include the occurrence of other events and / or other types of sensors detecting the occurrence of a trigger event. For example, the controller 121 can execute an algorithm to detect and / or calculate usage of the spa unit 120. Based on the use of the spa unit 120, as detected by the controller 121, a trigger condition based on total use time, use frequency, and / or water temperature, can be detected. Trigger events based on spa use can be based on spa component behavior and / or operation (e.g., cover sensor trigger, activation of a jet pump, heat loss resulting from a spa cover being open, heater activation to recover heat loss, etc.). In some cases, the controller 121 and / or a separate server system (not shown) can perform a historical analysis of spa component behavior and can use the historical analysis to create a user profile. The controller 121 can use the user profile to create and / or communicate user alerts to the wireless device 130. For example, the communications unit 123 can transmit an alert and / or message to the wireless device 130 to alert and / or remind a user about spa unit therapy time, therapy settings, a scheduled therapy, and / or a change in therapy schedule.

[0032] The one or more sensors 125 can include a spa cover sensor to detect movement of the cover of the spa unit 120 (e.g., detect that the cover is opened, removed, detached, closed, applied, attached, etc ). The spa cover sensor can be in communication with the controller 121 via a wired or wireless connection. The spa cover sensor is described in greater detail in U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 323,028, which published as U.S. App. No. 2023 / 0419815 and is entitled “COVER DETECTION SYSTEM FOR SPAS” and filed on May 24, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

[0033] In some cases, more than one wireless device 130 associated with at least one user profile can be paired and / or connected to the spa unit 120. In such cases, a hierarchy of wireless devices 130 can be set up to determine which user profile settings (e.g., user profile settings from a first wireless device or a second wireless device) the controller 121 should use tooperate the one or more spa components. For example, a user interface of a wireless device 130 and / or the spa unit 120 can be used to add and / or remove paired wireless devices 130 and / or to modify the hierarchy of the wireless devices 130. For instance, a first wireless device 130 can be set up as a primary device so that user profile settings associated with the first wireless device 130 control over the user profile settings of a second wireless device 130. This can be beneficial when two or more wireless devices 130 each being associated with user profile settings are detected by the spa unit 120. In such cases, the user profile settings associated with the first wireless device 130 (e. , the primary device) will control operation of the spa unit 120 (e.g., will cause the controller 121 to operate the spa component(s) 124 in accordance with the user profile settings of the primary device).

[0034] FIGS. 2A-2C show a chart 200 with examples of user profile settings for a spa unit 120. Each user profile can be modified so that the one or more spa components 124 operate according to the settings associated with the user profile when the communications unit 123 or controller 121 detects the presence of a wireless device 130. The user profile settings can be stored in a memory of the wireless device 130 and / or saved in the memory 122 of the spa unit 120. When the user profile settings are stored in the memory 122, the controller 121 can, upon detecting the presence of the wireless device 130 or receiving an indication from the communications unit 123 that the wireless device 130 is detected, identify a user profile associated with the wireless device 130 and operate the spa component(s) 124 in accordance with the identified user profile. When the user profile settings are stored in the wireless device 130, the wireless device 130 can transmit the user profile settings to the communications unit 123 (directly or indirectly via a server or other computing system) and the communications unit 123 can receive the user profile settings. Upon receiving the user profile settings from the communications unit 123, the controller 121 can operate the spa component(s) 124 in accordance with the user profile settings.

[0035] As shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, the spa unit 120 can include one or more preset operation modes. Each preset operation mode can be assigned to a user profile and / or wireless device 130. In some cases, however, the operation modes can be customized to adjust and / or customize a hydrotherapy experience, a lightning experience, and / or a sound experience. This can beneficially allow users to modify and / or customize the operation mode of each of the spa components 124 to their needs and / or preferences. Using the preset mode “1” as an example, upon detecting a wireless device 130 set up with the preset mode “1” (and / or the trigger event occurs),the controller 121 can operate spa component(s) 124 in accordance with the preset mode “1,” which may result in the controller 121 turning off a first jet pump (e.g., deactivate the first jet pump, prevent the first jet pump from turning on, etc.), turning off a second jet pump, turning off a third jet pump (e.g., on spa units 120 including a third jet pump), turning on a waterfall and / or circulation pump, setting a light intensity to be low, setting a light frequency to be stable, setting the light to include one or more colors, and / or activating a speaker (e.g., to a predefined sound level and / or to play predefined content). Although reference is made to the user profile settings controlling certain operational settings of one or more pumps, lights, and / or speakers, the user profile settings can be adjusted to control different operational settings and / or spa components. In some cases, the user profile settings can be adjusted to the user profile settings change according to the season, day of the week, and / or time of the day.

[0036] In some cases, the spa components 124 can include one or morejet pumps. Each of the jet pumps can include at least two speeds, variable speeds, and / or a single speed. The preset modes and / or user profile setting can be adjusted to activate and / or control the speed, time, or intensity of each jet pump.

[0037] FIG. 2D shows a chart 200’ with additional examples of user profile settings for a spa unit 120. As shown in the chart 200’, the spa unit can include one or more user profiles and / or operation modes. As further described herein, the one or more user profiles and / or operation modes can be stored on a memory 122 of the spa unit 120 and / or a user device 130. The one or more user profiles and / or operation modes can be adopted by a user and / or modified as needed.

[0038] In a first operation mode 210’, an infrared (IR) light therapy system of the spa unit 120 can be activated. The infrared (IR) light therapy system is described in greater detail in U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 177660, which published as U.S. App. No. 2023 / 0301868 and is entitled “LIGHT THERAPY FOR SPA” and filed on March 2, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. In the first operation mode 210’, one or more pumps of the spa unit 120 can be active in a low intensity mode. One or more speakers of the spa unit 120 can play a gentle breeze and / or a white noise. In some cases, one or more lights of the spa unit 120 can produce a white color. An intensity of the one or more lights can be medium. The one or more lights may or may not be synched to the sound of the one or more speakers and / or the intensity of the pumps.

[0039] In a second operation mode 220’, one or more pumps of the spa unit 120 can be active in a low intensity mode. One or more speakers of the spa unit 120 can play peaceful nature sounds. In some cases, one or more lights of the spa unit 120 can produce a purple color or another color. An intensity of the one or more lights can be low. The one or more lights may or may not be synched to the sound of the one or more speakers and / or the intensity of the pumps.

[0040] In a third operation mode 230’, one or more pumps of the spa unit 120 can be active in a low intensity mode, and one or more pumps of the spa unit 120 can be active in a high intensity mode. One or more speakers of the spa unit 120 can play steady rain sounds, heavy rain sounds, and / or a strong waterfall sound. In some cases, one or more lights of the spa unit 120 can produce an aqua, blue, green, and / or other color. An intensity of the one or more lights can be medium, low, high, and / or any intensity in between. The one or more lights may or may not be synched to the sound of the one or more speakers and / or the intensity of the pumps.

[0041] In a fourth operation mode 240’, one or more pumps of the spa unit 120 can be active in a high intensity mode. One or more speakers of the spa unit 120 can play ocean wave sounds or other sounds of water. In some cases, one or more lights of the spa unit 120 can produce pure blue color. An intensity of the one or more lights can be high, low, medium or any intensity in between. The one or more lights may or may not be synched to the sound of the one or more speakers and / or the intensity of the pumps.

[0042] In a fifth operation mode 250’, one or more pumps of the spa unit 120 can be active in a medium intensity mode (or another intensity mode). One or more speakers of the spa unit 120 can play music and / or sounds selected by a user. In some cases, one or more lights of the spa unit 120 can produce several colors and / or alternate between two or more colors. An intensity of the one or more lights can be high, low, medium, and / or any intensity in between. The one or more lights may or may not be synched to the sound of the one or more speakers and / or the intensity of the pumps.

[0043] FIG. 3 shows a flow diagram 300 for pairing a wireless device to a spa system, creating a user profile, and / or customizing user profile settings. At block 320, one or more user profiles can be created. In some cases, a user profile and / or user profile settings can be adjusted on a screen of the spa unit 120 and / or the wireless device 130. In some cases, a user profile can be associated with a name, symbol, picture, icon, emoji, etc. to easily identify each user profile. Insome cases, more than one user profile for one or more wireless devices 130 can be paired to a spa unit 120. When more than user profile exists, the hierarchy of the user profiles can be adjusted.

[0044] Upon selecting a user profile and / or adding a new user profile, the user profile settings for the user profile can be adjusted, as shown at block 340. A display of the spa unit 120 can provide a user interface for customizing the user profile settings. The user interface can assist in selecting operation modes for the one or more spa components 124 by presenting questions about the user’s preferences (e.g., usage questions, intensity number of users, time of use, water care preferences, etc.). Based on the user’s input, the display may present recommended and / or suggested operation modes for the spa components 124. In some cases, however, users can skip the questions and select the operation mode for each spa component 124. Users can also select one or more of the preset modes shown in the chart 200 (FIGS. 2A-2D).

[0045] At block 360, users can link one or more user devices to other devices, services, and / or sensors, such as a speaker, music applications, health application, etc. The spa unit 120 can include one or more speakers. When connected to a wireless device 130, the one or more speakers can be used to play content (e.g., music, ambient sound, atmosphere sound, white noise, etc.) accessed via the wireless device 130. The spa unit 120 can also be connected to health applications installed on the wireless device 130. This can allow the spa unit 120 to share information with the wireless device 130 regarding spa use, spa therapy, time of use, time between sessions, etc. The information can be used by the health apps installed on the wireless device 130 to keep track of spa use, spa therapy sessions, and / or recommend additional therapy sessions.

[0046] The spa unit 120 can include one or more microphones. The one or more microphones can be positioned on the spa unit 120 to detect and / or measure sounds. In cases where the spa unit 120 includes a speaker, the microphones can be configured to detect and / or measure the audio output by the speaker. For instance, the microphones can detect the intensity, frequency, beat, and / or acoustic location of the audio output by the speaker. Based on the intensity, frequency, beat, and / or acoustic location of the audio output as detected by the microphones, the controller 121 of the spa unit 120 can cause the one or more spa components 124 to operate in a setting that corresponds to the intensity, frequency, beat, and / or acoustic location of the audio output. For example, the controller 121 can cause one or more lights to change their color and / or intensity, and / or flash at a frequency corresponding to the intensity, frequency, beat, and / or other characteristic of the audio output.

[0047] FIG. 4 shows an example of a plumbing circuit 400 for a spa unit (e.g, the spa unit 120). The plumbing circuit 400 can include a circulation suction port 402, a filter assembly 404, at least one jet pump 406, and at least one jet pump suction port 408. In some cases, the circulation suction port 402, the filter assembly 404, the at least one jet pump 406, and the at least one jet pump suction port 408 can be in fluid communication with each other. The plumbing circuit 400 can include a single circuit. The use of a single circuit can allow the plumbing circuit 400 to activate / deactivate the one or more jet pumps 406 in different areas of the spa unit and / or operate each of the jet pumps 406 at the same or different speeds. This can beneficially allow the one or more jet pumps 406 to provide therapy in only some portion of the spa unit (e.g., one seat of the spa unit; one side of the spa unit) and / or the entire spa unit. Each of the one or more jet pumps 406 can be operated at different speeds. This can allow users to adjust operation of the one or more jet pumps 406 in different sections of the spa unit. For example, a first jet pump can be operated at a first speed on one side of the spa unit and a second jet pump can be operated at a second speed on a second side of the spa. This can beneficially allow users to operate the spa unit and / or the one or more jet pumps 406 according to their operation preferences. In some cases, the plumbing circuit 400 can include a diverter to divert the flow of water to at least one jet pump 406 and / or restrict the flow of water to one or more of the jet pumps 406 (and / or the portion of the circuit connected to the jet pumps).Example Block Diagram for Determining a Spa Run Schedule

[0048] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating the operations performed by the components of an operating environment to operate a spa unit according to one or more operation modes. In some cases, the operating environment can include the operating environment 100 described in relation to FIG. 1.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 5, one or more user devices 530 can communicate with a communications unit 523 of the spa unit 520 via a network 510. The spa unit 520 may be similar to any spa unit described herein. In some cases, the user device 530 can include a laptop, a tablet, a cellphone, a smart watch etc. The network 510 can include a cellular, Wi-Fi, or other wireless communication interface. One or more user profile settings can be stored in a memory of the user device 530 and / or saved in the memory 522 of the spa unit 520. The user profile settings can include one or more spa operation mode instructions that, when executed by the controller 521 of the spa unit 520, can cause one or more spa components 524 to operate according to a predefinedspa operation mode. In some cases, the one or more operation modes can include the operation modes described in relation to FIGS. 2A-2D.

[0050] To operate the spa unit 520 according to one or more operation modes stored on a user device 530, the user device 530 and the spa unit 520 can be paired to each other at (1). For example, the user device 530 and the communications unit 523 of the spa unit 520 can be paired to each other via a Wi-Fi connection and / or a Bluetooth connection. In some cases, more than user device 530 can be paired to the spa unit 520. As further described herein, the spa unit520 can operate according to the one or more operation modes stored on the user device 530 detected by the communications unit 523 (e.g., the user device 530 closest to the spa unit 520, according to a predefined user device 530 hierarchy, etc.).

[0051] The one or more operation modes stored on the user device 530 and / or the spa unit can be adjusted as needed, at (2). For example, one or more operation modes, which can include operation mode instructions for controlling the spa components 524, can be created and / or modified on the user device 530 and / or the spa unit 520. The one or more spa components 524 can include one or more heaters, pumps, lights, jet pumps, speakers, etc. When executed by the controller 521, the operation mode instructions can cause the one or more spa components to operate according to an operation mode. For example, a first operation mode can include operation mode instructions to activate the heater to a predefined temperature, activate at least some of the j et pumps, activate the lights in one or more colors, and / or turn on the speaker and / or play a specific song or genre. The memory 522 of the spa unit 520 can include a predefined set of operation modes that users can adopt as their operation modes. In some cases, the predefined set of operation modes can be adjusted.

[0052] In some cases, the one or more operation modes can be configured to be active, for example, according to predefined times of the day (e.g., operation mode 1 to be active in the morning; operation mode 2 to be active in the afternoon); predefined days (e.g., operation mode 1 to be active during weekdays ; operation mode 2 to be active during weekends); and / or a predefined mode hierarchy (e.g., operation mode 1 to be active; operation mode 2 to be inactive).

[0053] The communication unit 523 of the spa unit 520 can detect the presence of a user device 530 at (3). Upon receiving a signal strength of the user device 530 at (4), the controller521 of the spa unit 520 can determine whether to operate the spa unit 520 and / or the spa components 524 according to the one or mode operation modes stored in the user device 530. Insome cases, the spa unit 520 may operate according to the one or mode operation modes stored in the user device 530 if, for example, the user device 530 is within a predefined distance (e.g., 2 feet, 3 feet, 4 feet, 5 feet, 8 feet, 10 feet, etc.) from the spa unit 520 and / or if the user device 530 stays within the predefined distance from the spa unit 520 by a predefined period of time (e.g., 5 , 10, 15, 20 30, 45, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, seconds, etc.). For example, the spa unit 520 can detect the distance between the spa unit 520 and the user device 530 by analyzing whether a signal strength of the wireless connection e.g., received signal strength indicator (RSSI), signal to noise ratio (SNR), signal to interference and noise ratio (SINR), etc.) is above a threshold strength level, at (5). Alternatively, the spa unit 520 may operate according to the one or mode operation modes stored in the user device 530 if, for example, the signal strength of the wireless connection with the user device 530 is above a threshold signal strength level (e.g., 0 dBm, -10 dBm, -20 dBm, - 30 dBm, -40 dBm, etc.) and / or if the user device 530 maintains the signal strength level of the wireless connection with the spa unit 520 for a predefined period of time (e.g., 5 , 10, 15, 20 30, 45, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, seconds, etc.).

[0054] Upon detecting that a user device 530 is within a predefined distance from the spa unit 520 and / or that the user device 530 has been within the predefined distance from the spa unit 520 by a predefined period of time, the controller 521 can execute the instructions associated with the one or more operation modes associated with the user device 530, at (6).

[0055] Additionally or alternatively, the controller 521 may execute the instructions associated with the one or more operation mode if a trigger event occurs. In some cases, the trigger event may occur when a condition of the spa changes, as detected by the one or more spa sensors 525. For example, the trigger event can occur when a spa cover of the spa unit 520 is removed from the spa unit 520. The one or more spa sensors 525 can include a cover sensor which can detect the position of the spa cover relative to the spa unit 520 (e.g., whether the spa cover is open or closed).Example Spa Automated Operation Mode Selector Routine

[0056] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram depicting an example spa automated operation mode selector routine 600 according to one embodiment. The spa unit 120 and / or the spa unit 520 described in relation to FIGS. 1 and 5 respectively can be configured to execute the spa automated operation mode selector routine 600. For example, the memory 122 and / or the memory 522 can store instructions that when executed by the controllers 121 and 521 can cause the spa unit 120and the spa unit 520 to operate according to the example spa automated operation mode selector routine 600. The spa automated operation mode selector routine 600 can begin at block 602.

[0057] At block 604, the spa unit can detect the presence of a user device. The user device can include a wireless communication device such as a cellphone, a tablet, a computer, a smartwatch, and / or any other mobile device. The spa unit can detect the presence of a user device via a network (e.g., a wired network, a wireless network like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, etc., etc.). In some cases, the user device and the spa unit can be in communication with each other through a communications unit of the spa unit. The communication unit can include a transceiver.

[0058] At block 606, the signal strength between the user device and the spa unit can be determined. The signal strength can be determined by a controller of the spa unit. For example, the controller can analyze whether the signal strength of the wireless connection (e.g., received signal strength indicator (RSSI), signal to noise ratio (SNR), signal to interference and noise ratio (SINR), etc.) between the user device and the spa communication unit is above a threshold strength level. The signal strength may indicate a distance (e.g., 2 feet, 3 feet, 4 feet, 5 feet, 8 feet, 10 feet, etc.) within which the user device is to the spa unit.

[0059] Once the spa unit calculates the signal strength between the user device and the spa unit, the processor may, for example, determine whether to operate the spa unit according to one or more operation modes stored in the user device, as shown at block 412. In an example implementation, if the signal strength exceeds a predefined threshold signal strength (e.g., if the user device is within a predefined distance of the spa unit and / or if the user device is within a predefined distance from the spa unit for a predefined period of time), the controller may cause the spa unit to operate according to the one or more spa modes stored in the user device, as shown in block 610. In some cases, if the signal strength does not exceed the predefined threshold signal strength, the spa automated operation mode selector routine 600 may proceed back to block 602.

[0060] At block 610, the spa unit may operate according to the one or more operation modes stored in the user device and executed by the controller. As an example, a first operation mode can include operation mode instructions to activate the heater to a predefined temperature, activate at least some of the jet pumps, activate the lights in one or more colors, and / or turn on the speaker and / or play a specific song or genre. The one or more operations modes can be applied for predefined period of time (e.g., 10 min, 20 min, 30 min, 1 hours, 2 hours, etc.) and / or after the occurrence of an event (e.g., the user device is no longer within a predefined distance from the spaunit). After the controller causes the spa unit to operate according to the one or more operation modes, the spa automated operation mode selector routine 600 proceeds to block 612 and ends.Terminology

[0061] All of the methods and tasks described herein may be performed and fully automated by a computer system. The computer system may, in some cases, include multiple distinct computers or computing devices (e.g., physical servers, workstations, storage arrays, cloud computing resources, etc.) that communicate and interoperate over a network to perform the described functions. Each such computing device typically includes a processor (or multiple processors) that executes program instructions or modules stored in a memory or other non- transitory computer-readable storage medium or device (e.g., solid state storage devices, disk drives, etc ). The various functions disclosed herein may be embodied in such program instructions or may be implemented in application-specific circuitry (e.g., ASICs or FPGAs) of the computer system. Where the computer system includes multiple computing devices, these devices may, but need not, be co-located. The results of the disclosed methods and tasks may be persistently stored by transforming physical storage devices, such as solid-state memory chips or magnetic disks, into a different state. In some embodiments, the computer system may be a cloud-based computing system whose processing resources are shared by multiple distinct business entities or other users.

[0062] Depending on the embodiment, certain acts, events, or functions of any of the processes or algorithms described herein can be performed in a different sequence, can be added, merged, or left out altogether (e.g., not all described operations or events are necessary for the practice of the algorithm). Moreover, in certain embodiments, operations or events can be performed concurrently, e.g., through multi -threaded processing, interrupt processing, or multiple processors or processor cores or on other parallel architectures, rather than sequentially.

[0063] The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, routines, and algorithm steps described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented as electronic hardware, or combinations of electronic hardware and computer software. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware, or as software that runs on hardware, depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. The described functionality canbe implemented in varying ways for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the disclosure.

[0064] Moreover, the various illustrative logical blocks and modules described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented or performed by a machine, such as a processor device, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a 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. A processor device can be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor device can be a controller, microcontroller, or state machine, combinations of the same, or the like. A processor device can include electrical circuitry configured to process computer-executable instructions. In another embodiment, a processor device includes an FPGA or other programmable device that performs logic operations without processing computer-executable instructions. A processor device can also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. Although described herein primarily with respect to digital technology, a processor device may also include primarily analog components. For example, some or all of the algorithms described herein may be implemented in analog circuitry or mixed analog and digital circuitry. A computing environment can include any type of computer system, including, but not limited to, a computer system based on a microprocessor, a mainframe computer, a digital signal processor, a portable computing device, a device controller, or a computational engine within an appliance, to name a few.

[0065] The elements of a method, process, routine, or algorithm described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor device, or in a combination of the two. A software module can reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. An exemplary storage medium can be coupled to the processor device such that the processor device can read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage medium can be integral to the processor device. The processor device and the storage medium can reside in an ASIC. The ASIC can residein a user terminal. In the alternative, the processor device and the storage medium can reside as discrete components in a user terminal.

[0066] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, "can," "could," "might," "may," “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and / or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and / or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without other input or prompting, whether these features, elements and / or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.

[0067] Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and / or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.

[0068] Unless otherwise explicitly stated, articles such as “a” or “an” should generally be interpreted to include one or more described items. Accordingly, phrases such as “a device configured to” are intended to include one or more recited devices. Such one or more recited devices can also be collectively configured to carry out the stated recitations. For example, “a processor configured to carry out recitations A, B and C” can include a first processor configured to carry out recitation A working in conjunction with a second processor configured to carry out recitations B and C. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the terms “set” and “collection” should generally be interpreted to include one or more described items throughout this application. Accordingly, phrases such as “a set of devices configured to” or “a collection of devices configured to” are intended to include one or more recited devices. Such one or more recited devices can also be collectively configured to carry out the stated recitations. For example, “a set of serversconfigured to carry out recitations A, B and C” can include a first server configured to carry out recitation A working in conjunction with a second server configured to carry out recitations B and C.

[0069] While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features as applied to various embodiments, it can be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the devices or algorithms illustrated can be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. As can be recognized, certain embodiments described herein can be embodied within a form that does not provide all of the features and benefits set forth herein, as some features can be used or practiced separately from others. The scope of certain embodiments disclosed herein is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A spa unit compri sing : a memory storing computer-executable instructions; a spa component; a communications unit ; and a controller in communication with the memory, the spa component, and the communications unit, wherein the computer-executable instructions, when executed by the controller, cause the controller to: receive an indication of a signal strength between the communications unit and a wireless device, wherein the wireless device is associated with a user profile; determine that the signal strength exceeds a threshold signal strength; and adjust operation of the spa component in accordance with the user profile.

2. The spa unit of Claim 1 , further comprising a sensor configured to detect an occurrence of a trigger event of the spa unit.

3. The spa unit of Claim 2, wherein the computer-executable instructions, when executed, further cause the controller to adjust operation of the spa component in accordance with the user profile in response to the determination that the signal strength exceeds the threshold signal strength and in response to detection of the trigger event.

4. The spa unit of Claim 2, wherein the sensor comprises a cover sensor.

5. The spa unit of Claim 1, wherein the spa component comprises one of a jet pump, a speaker, a light, a heater, or an infrared (IR) light therapy system.

6. The spa unit of Claim 1, wherein the computer-executable instructions, when executed by the controller, further cause the controller to cease operation of the spa unit upon completion of a cycle of at least one operation mode associated with the user profile.

7. A computer-implemented method for operating a spa unit according to at least one operation mode, the computer-implemented method comprising: receiving an indication of a signal strength between a communications unit of the spa unit and a user device, wherein the user device is associated with the at least one operation mode; determining that the signal strength exceeds a threshold signal strength; andadjusting operation of at least one spa component in accordance with the at least one operation mode.

8. The computer-implemented method of Claim 7, further comprising pairing the user device to the spa unit.

9. The computer-implemented method of Claim 8, wherein the pairing the user device to the spa unit further comprises pairing the user device to the spa unit via a wireless network.

10. The computer-implemented method of Claim 9, wherein wireless network comprises one of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular.

11. The computer-implemented method of Claim 7, further comprising adjusting the at least one operation mode.

12. The computer-implemented method of Claim 11, wherein adjusting the at least one operation mode comprises adjusting an operational setting of the at least one spa component.

13. The computer-implemented method of Claim 12, wherein the at least one spa component comprises one of a j et pump, a speaker, a light, a heater, or an infrared (IR) light therapy system.

14. The computer-implemented method of Claim 7, wherein determining that the signal strength exceeds the threshold signal strength further comprises measuring one of a received signal strength indicator (RSSI), a signal to noise ratio (SNR), or a signal to interference and noise ratio (SINR).

15. The computer-implemented method of Claim 7, further comprising detecting an occurrence of a trigger event of the spa unit.

16. The computer-implemented method of Claim 15, wherein the trigger event comprises a spa cover being opened.

17. The computer-implemented method of Claim 15, wherein adjusting operation of the at least one spa component in accordance with the at least one operation mode occurs in response to occurrence of the trigger event.

18. The computer-implemented method of Claim 7, further comprising ceasing operation of the spa unit upon completion of a cycle of the at least one operation mode.

19. The computer-implemented method of Claim 18, wherein completion of the cycle of the at least one operation mode occurs after a predefined period of time.

20. A non-transitory, computer-readable medium comprising computer-executable instructions for operating a spa unit according to at least one operation mode, wherein the computer-executable instructions, when executed by a computer system, cause the computer system to: determine a presence of a user device; receive an indication of a signal strength between a communications unit of the spa unit and the user device, wherein the user device is associated with the at least one operation mode; determine, based on the signal strength, that the user device is within a predefined distance from the spa unit; adjust operation of at least one spa component in accordance with the at least one operation mode if the user device is within the predefined distance from the spa unit.

21. The non-transitory, computer-readable medium of Claim 20, wherein the computerexecutable instructions, when executed, further cause the computer system to detect an occurrence of a trigger event of the spa unit.

22. The non-transitory, computer-readable medium of Claim 20, wherein the computerexecutable instructions, when executed, further cause the computer system to cease operation of the spa unit upon completion of a cycle of the at least one operation mode.

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