Systems and methods for maintaining water quality

Abstract

Monitoring and dispensing systems and methods for monitoring and maintaining water quality in a treated environment. An illustrative system may include a system controller, a monitoring module, and a dispensing module. The dispensing module may be configured to dispense one or more chemicals in response to a measurement obtained at the monitoring module.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MAINTAINING WATER QUALITYCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 717,641, filed November 7, 2024 and to US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 560,195, filed March 1, 2024, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.TECHNOLOGY FILED

[0002] The present application relates generally to systems and methods for maintaining water quality in a pool or spa. and in particular, to automated methods and systems for controlling chemical dispensing in a pool or spa.BACKGROUND

[0003] Pools and spas (e.g., hot tubs) require routine monitoring of the quality of the water therein. The water quality may be affected by environmental factors, such as, but not limited to, sunlight, wind, rain, pollen, debris, etc. and human factors, such as, but not limited to, bacteria, oils, lotions, sweat, urine, etc. Various chemicals are used to ensure the water remains safe.SUMMARY

[0004] This disclosure is directed towards systems and methods for maintaining water quality in a pool or spa. A first example may include a monitoring and dispensing system for monitoring and maintaining water quality in a treated environment, where the system may include a system controller, a monitoring module, and a dispensing module, wherein the dispensing module may be configured to dispense one or more chemicals in response to a measurement obtained at the monitoring module.

[0005] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller, the monitoring module, and the dispensing module may be releasably coupled to one another.

[0006] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the monitoring module may comprise a plurality of sensors for measuring a parameter of water in the treated environment.

[0007] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the plurality of sensors may comprise one or more of a pH sensor, a hardness sensor, a salinity sensor, a chlorine sensor, a bromine sensor, a conductivity sensor, an oxidationreduction potential (ORP) sensor, an alkalinity sensor, a turbidity sensor, a temperature sensor, or a pressure sensor.

[0008] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the plurality of sensors may be disposed within a housing.

[0009] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the housing may comprise a plurality of openings to fluidly couple to the plurality of sensors with the water.

[0010] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the plurality of openings may be microscopic.

[0011] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the plurality of sensors may be disposed within one or more microfluidic channels.

[0012] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the monitoring module may comprise a plurality of micro electromechanical systems (MEMS) devices.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, each MEMS device may be configured to individually sense a unique parameter.

[0014] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the plurality of MEMS devices may be configured to operate in parallel.

[0015] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the plurality of MEMS devices may be encapsulated.

[0016] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, each MEMS device of the plurality of MEMS devices may include one or more channels and / or chambers configured to direct a flow of water to a sensor.

[0017] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, each MEMS device of the plurality of MEMS devices may include a gold-plated layer.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the monitoring module may include a communications module configured to communicate with the system controller.

[0019] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the communications module may be configured to transmit data from one or more sensors to the system controller.

[0020] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the dispensing module may comprise a housing.

[0021] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may include one or more storage chambers disposed within the housing.

[0022] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may include a pre-mix chamber disposed within the housing.

[0023] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the pre-mix chamber may be in selective fluid communication with the one or more storage chambers.

[0024] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may include one or more dispensing mechanisms disposed between the one or more storage chambers and the pre-mix chamber.

[0025] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may include a mixing chamber disposed within the housing.

[0026] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the mixing chamber may be in selective fluid communication with the pre-mix chamber.

[0027] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may include a membrane disposed between the pre-mix chamber and the mixing chamber.

[0028] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the membrane may be configured to selectively couple the pre-mix chamber and the mixing chamber.

[0029] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may include one or more sensors embedded in the membrane.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the membrane may be at least partially formed form a smart polymer.

[0031] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may include a valve positioned between the pre-mix chamber and the mixing chamber.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may include a fluid inlet tube fluidly coupled with the mixing chamber and water in the treated environment.

[0033] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may include a pump fluidly coupled to the mixing chamber.

[0034] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may include a fluid outlet tube fluidly coupled with the mixing chamber and water in the treated environment.

[0035] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, an interior surface of the pre-mix chamber may be contoured, the contoured interior surface may be configured to induce a vortex in a flow of fluid through the pre-mix chamber.

[0036] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, an interior surface of the mixing chamber may be contoured, the contoured interior surface may be configured to induce a vortex in a flow7of fluid through the mixing chamber.

[0037] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the dispensing module may include a communications module configured to communicate with the system controller.

[0038] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the communications module may be configured to receive control signals from the system controller, the control signals may be configured to actuate one or more relays or actuators to dispense a predefined quantity of chemical.

[0039] In a further example, a method for maintaining water quality in a treated environment may include receiving at a system controller one or more measured parameters of a body of water in a treated environment, at the system controller: determining if the one or more measured parameters of the body of water in the treated environment are outside of a predetermined range, identifying one or more chemicals to be added to the body of water in the treated environment required to bring the one or more measured parameters of the body of w ater in the treated environment into the predetermined range, and transmitting a control signal to a dispensing module to dispense the identified one or more chemicals.

[0040] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the one or more measured parameters may be transmitted from a sensing module.

[0041] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the sensing module may be in continuous fluid communication with the body of water in the treated environment.

[0042] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the one or more measured parameters of a body of water in the treated environment may be received at the system controller at predefined time intervals.

[0043] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the dispensing module may be in continuous fluid communication with the body of water in the treated environment.

[0044] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the method may include transmitting alerts to a remote user device.

[0045] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the method may include transmitting data trends to a remote user device.

[0046] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller may be configured to monitor quantity and types of chemicals dispensed at the dispensing module.

[0047] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller may be configured to predict changes in water quality' to adaptively control the dispensing of chemicals.

[0048] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller may be configured to adjust settings to maintain optimal water conditions.

[0049] In a further example, a method for determining a quantity of a chemical to be added to a body of water in a treated environment may include receiving raw data from one or more sensors in a body of water in a treated environment, preprocessing the raw data to remove noise and correct for drift in sensor readings, extracting features that affect water chemistry from the preprocessed data, building a feature matrix with the features, evaluate available models for prediction performance, selecting a model, training the selected model using historical data and the feature matrix, and using the model to determine when to added a quantity of a chemical to the body of water in the treated environment.

[0050] In a further example, a monitoring and dispensing system for monitoring and maintaining water quality in a treated environment may include a housing including a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, a system controller disposed within the housing, a monitoring module disposed within the housing, and a dispensing module disposed within the housing, wherein the dispensing module is configured to dispense one or more chemicals in response to a measurement obtained at the monitoring module.

[0051] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the housing may comprise a movable access panel.

[0052] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the monitoring module may be fluidly coupled to a treated environment and the dispensing module is fluid coupled to the monitoring module.

[0053] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the dispensing module may be dow nstream of the monitoring module.

[0054] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the monitoring module may comprise an analysis chamber and at least one sensor in fluid communication with the analysis chamber, the at least one sensor for measuring a parameter of water in the treated environment.

[0055] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may comprise a first valve positioned between the fluid inlet and the analysis chamber and a second valve positioned between the analysis chamber and the fluid outlet.

[0056] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the at least one sensor may comprise a pH sensor.

[0057] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the at least one sensor may comprise an oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) sensor.

[0058] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the at least one sensor comprises a combination pH and oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) sensor.

[0059] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the at least one sensor may comprise a temperature sensor.

[0060] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the dispensing module may comprise at least one chemical dispensing cartridge.

[0061] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the at least one chemical dispensing cartridge may be removable.

[0062] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may include a fluid line fluidly coupled to the second valve and the fluid outlet and extending therebetween.

[0063] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the at least one chemical dispensing cartridge may be fluidly coupled to the analysis chamber or the fluid line.

[0064] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the dispensing module may further comprise at least one metering pump fluidly coupled to the at least one chemical dispensing cartridge.

[0065] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may include a flow sensor in fluid communication with the fluid line.

[0066] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the at least one chemical dispensing cartridge may be configured to dispense a chemical stored therein when the flow sensor detects fluid flow within the fluid line.

[0067] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the control module may be communicatively coupled with the monitoring module and the dispensing module.

[0068] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may include a mounting bracket secured to an outer surface of the housing.

[0069] In another example, a method for determining an alkalinity of a treated environment may comprise closing a first valve upstream of an analysis chamber, closing a second valve downstream of the analysis chamber, measuring a pH of a fluid in the analysis chamber to obtain a first pH reading, dispensing a predetermined volume of pH lowering chemical into the analysis chamber, after dispensing the predetermined volume of pH lowering chemical into the analysis chamber, measuring a pH of the fluid in the analysis chamber to obtain a second pH reading, determining a change in the pH of the fluid in the analysis chamber, and calculating an alkalinity of the fluid in the analysis chamber based on the change in the pH of the fluid in the analysis chamber.

[0070] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the method may include verifying fluid is not exiting the analysis chamber prior to measuring the pH of the fluid in the analysis chamber to obtain the first pH reading.

[0071] In another example, a monitoring and dispensing system for monitoring and maintaining water quality of water in a treated environment may include a system controller, a monitoring module configured to receive water via an input from the treated environment and provide the water to an output to the treated environment, and a dispensing module configured to dispense a treatment chemical to the water upstream from a location of the output to the treated environment, wherein the system controller is configured to receive from the monitoring module one or more sensed values related to a parameter of the water received via the input and determine an alkalinity level of the water in the treated environment based on the one or more sensed values.

[0072] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller may be configured to cause the dispensing module to dispense one or more chemicals to adjust the alkalinity level of the water in the treated environment based on the alkalinity level determined.

[0073] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller may be configured to cause the dispensing module to dispense an alkalinity’ increaser chemical when the alkalinity level of the water received via the input is at or below a threshold level.

[0074] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller may be configured to cause the dispensing module to dispense a pH decreaser chemical when the alkalinity level of the water received via the input is at or above a threshold level.

[0075] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the one or more sensed values related to the parameter of the water received via the input may include one or more sensed values related to a pH of the water received via the input.

[0076] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller may be configured to receive an initial value related to a pH of a water sample from the treated environment, wherein the one or more sensed values includes the initial value related to the pH of the water sample, cause the dispensing module to dispense a predetermined amount of a pH decreaser chemical into the water sample, receive a further value related to the pH of the water sample after the predetermined amount of the pH decreaser chemical has been dispensed into the water sample, wherein the one or more sensed values includes the further value related to the pH of the water sample, and determine the alkalinity level of the water sample based on the initial value related to the pH of the water sample, the predetermined amount of the pH decreaser chemical, and the further value related to the pH of the water sample.

[0077] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller is configured to cause the dispensing module to dispense the pH decreaser chemical when the alkalinity level of the water sample has reached or gone beyond a first threshold to decrease the alkalinity level of the water received via the input, cause the dispensing module to dispense an alkalinity increaser chemical when the alkalinity level of the water sample has reached or gone beyond a second threshold to increase the alkalinity level of the water received via the input, and take no action tochange the alkalinity level of the water received via the input when the alkalinity level is between the first threshold and the second threshold.

[0078] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may further include a first valve, an analysis chamber downstream of the first valve, and a second valve downstream of the analysis chamber, wherein the system controller is configured to close the first valve and the second valve to enclose the water sample received in the analysis chamber and wherein the one or more sensed values received at the system controller are related to the parameter of the water sample.

[0079] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller may be configured to open the first valve and the second valve and cause the dispensing module to dispense the pH decreaser chemical or dispense the alkalinity increaser chemical after opening the first valve and the second valve.

[0080] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the sy stem controller may be configured to receive an initial value related to a pH of a water sample from the treated environment, wherein the one or more sensed values include the initial value related to the pH of the water sample, cause the dispensing module to dispense one or more know n amounts of a pH decreaser chemical into the water sample until a target pH of the water sample is achieved, determine a total amount of pH decreaser chemical dispensed into the water sample, and determine the alkalinity level of the w ater sample based on the initial value related to the pH of the water sample, the target pH of the water sample, and the total amount of pH decreaser chemical dispensed into the water sample.

[0081] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller may be configured to cause the dispensing module to dispense the pH decreaser chemical w hen the alkalinity’ level of the water sample has reached or exceeded a first threshold to decrease the alkalinity level of the water received via the input, cause the dispensing module to dispense an alkalinity increaser chemical when the alkalinity level of the water sample has reached or exceeded a second threshold to increase the alkalinity level of the water received via the input, and take no action to change the alkalinity level of the w aler received via the input when the alkalinity level is between the first threshold and the second threshold.

[0082] In another example, a method may include determining an alkalinity level of water in a treated environment based on one or more sensed values related to aparameter of a water sample in an analysis chamber, wherein the water sample is from the water in the treated environment and dispensing one or more chemicals to adjust the alkalinity level of the water in the treated environment when the alkalinity level determined has reached or gone beyond one or more threshold values.

[0083] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the method may include obtaining the water sample in the analysis chamber by closing a first valve between a water line input from the treated environment and the analysis chamber and closing a second valve between the analysis chamber and a water line output to the treated environment.

[0084] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the method may include opening the first valve and opening the second valve, wherein the dispensing the one or more chemicals includes dispensing the one or more chemicals into a flow of water between the water line input and the water line output.

[0085] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, dispensing the one or more chemicals to adjust the alkalinity level of the water in the treated environment may include dispensing, from a dispensing module, a pH decreaser chemical when the alkalinity level of the water sample has reached or exceeded a first threshold to decrease the alkalinity level of the water in the treated environment, dispensing, from the dispensing module, an alkalinity increaser chemical when the alkalinity level of the water sample has reached or exceeded a second threshold to increase the alkalinity level of the water in the treated environment, and taking no action with the dispensing module to change the alkalinity level of the water in the treated environment when the alkalinity level is between the first threshold and the second threshold.

[0086] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, determining the alkalinity level of water in the treated environment based on the one or more sensed values related to the parameter of the water sample in the analysis chamber may include receiving an initial value related to a pH of the water sample from the treated environment, wherein the one or more sensed values includes the initial value related to the pH of the water sample, dispensing one or more know n amounts of a pH decreaser chemical into the water sample until a target pH of the water sample is achieved, determining a total amount of pH decreaser chemical dispensed into the water sample, and determining the alkalinity level of the water sample based on theinitial value related to the pH of the water sample, the target pH of the water sample, and the total amount of the pH decreaser chemical dispensed into the water sample.

[0087] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, determining the alkalinity level of water in the treated environment based on the one or more sensed values related to the parameter of the water sample in the analysis chamber may include receiving an initial value related to a pH of the water sample from the treated environment, wherein the one or more sensed values includes the initial value related to the pH of the water sample, dispensing a predetermined amount of pH decreaser chemical into the water sample, receiving a further value related to the pH of the water sample after the predetermined amount of pH decreaser chemical has been dispensed into the water sample, wherein the one or more sensed values includes the further value related to the pH of the water sample, and determining the alkalinity' level of the water sample based on the initial value related to the pH of the water sample, the predetermined amount of the pH decreaser chemical, and the further value related to the pH of the water sample.

[0088] In another example, a non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon, instructions that when executed by a computing device cause the computing device to perform operations comprising determining an alkalinity' level of water in a treated environment based on one or more sensed values related to a parameter of a water sample in an analysis chamber, wherein the water sample is from the water in the treated environment and causing a dispensing module to dispense one or more chemicals to adjust the alkalinity' level of the water in the treated environment when the alkalinity level determined has reached or gone beyond one or more threshold values.

[0089] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the operations may further comprise causing a first valve between a water line input from the treated environment and the analysis chamber to close and causing a second valve between the analysis chamber and a water line output to the treated environment to close.

[0090] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the operations may further comprise causing the first valve and the second valve to open prior to causing the dispensing module to dispense the one or more chemicals to adjust the alkalinity level of the water in the treated environment.

[0091] In an further example, a non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon, instructions that when executed by a computing device cause thecomputing device to perform operations including determining if the one or more measured parameters of a body of water in a treated environment are outside of a predetermined range, identifying one or more chemicals to be added to the body of water in the treated environment required to bring the one or more measured parameters of the body of water in the treated environment into the predetermined range, and transmitting a control signal to a dispensing module to dispense the identified one or more chemicals.

[0092] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the operations may further comprise transmitting alerts to a remote user device.

[0093] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the operations may further comprise transmitting data trends to a remote user device.

[0094] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the operations may further comprise monitoring quantity and types of chemicals dispensed at the dispensing module.

[0095] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the operations may further comprise predicting changes in water quality to adaptively control the dispensing of chemicals.

[0096] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the operations may further comprise adjusting settings to maintain optical water conditions.

[0097] In another example, a system for monitoring and treating water from a treated environment may include a system controller, a monitoring module configured to receive water from the treated environment, the monitoring module comprising one or more sensors, and a dispensing module comprising one or more chemical dispensing cartridges and one or more pumps for dispensing chemicals from the one or more chemical dispensing cartridges, wherein the system controller is configured to receive from the monitoring module one or more sensed values related to a parameter of the water received from the treated environment and send a control signal based on the one or more sensed values to the dispensing module to treat the water from the treated environment.

[0098] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the dispensing module may include a first chemical dispensing cartridge containing a pH decreaser chemical, a second chemical dispensing cartridge containing a pH increaser chemical, and a third chemical dispensing cartridge containing an alkalinity increaser chemical.

[0099] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the dispensing module may include a first chemical dispensing cartridge containing a pH decreaser chemical, a second chemical dispensing cartridge containing a pH increaser chemical, and a third chemical dispensing cartridge containing an alkalinity increaser chemical, and the control signal sent to the dispensing module to treat the water from the treated environment may be configured to cause a pump of the one or more pumps to dispense a chemical from one of the one or more chemical dispensing cartridges.

[0100] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, one or more of the pH decreaser chemical, the pH increaser chemical, and the alkalinity increaser chemical are in solid form.

[0101] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, one or more of the pH decreaser chemical, the pH increaser chemical, and the alkalinity increaser chemical may be in solid form and one or more of the first chemical dispensing cartridge, the second chemical dispensing cartridge, and the third chemical dispensing cartridge may be configured to receive water from the treated environment.

[0102] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, one or more of the first chemical dispensing cartridge, the second dispensing cartridge, and the third dispensing cartridge are configured to receive water from the treated environment.

[0103] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the dispensing module may include a chemical dispensing cartridge containing chlorine.

[0104] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the one or more pumps may comprise one pump for each of the one or more chemical dispensing cartridges.

[0105] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, at least one of the one or more chemical dispensing cartridges may be replaceable in the dispensing module relative to the one or more pumps.

[0106] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may further include a chlorine generator configured to receive the water from the treated environment, wherein the water from the treated environment is salt water and the chlorine generator is configured to produce chlorine from the salt by applying electrolysis to the water from the treated environment.

[0107] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may further include an outlet configured to return the water received from the treated environment to the treated environment.

[0108] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the one or more sensors may comprise a pH sensor, a temperature sensor, and an oxidationreduction potential (ORP) sensor.

[0109] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the one or more sensors may comprise two or more sensors selected from the group of a pH sensor, a temperature sensor, an oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) sensor, and salinity sensor configured to sense a salt concentration in the water from the treated environment.

[0110] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the one or more sensors may comprise a salinity sensor configured to sense a salt concentration in the water from the treated environment.

[0111] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may further include a housing configured to enclose the system controller, the monitoring module, and the dispensing module.

[0112] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system may further include a housing configured to enclose the system controller, the monitoring module, and the dispensing module, and an outlet configured to return the water received from the treated environment to the treated environment.

[0113] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller may include a communication component configured to communicate with a remote device.

[0114] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller may be configured to receive one or more parameter values for each of a plurality of parameters, determine an index value based on the one or more parameter values for each of the plurality of parameters, compare the index value to one or more index threshold values, and when the index value goes beyond an index threshold value of the one or more index threshold values, send the control signal based on the one or more parameter values to the dispensing module.

[0115] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller may be configured to receive one or more parameter values for each of a plurality7of parameters, determine an index value based on the one or more parameter values for each of the plurality of parameters, compare the index value to one or more index threshold values, when the index value goes beyond the index threshold value of the one or more index threshold values, compare one or more parameter values forone or more parameters to one or more parameter threshold values; and send the control signal based on the comparison of the one or more parameter values to the one or more parameter threshold values.

[0116] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller may be configured to, when the index value goes beyond the index threshold value of the one or more index threshold values, compare one or more parameter values for one or more parameters to one or more parameter threshold values and send the control signal based on the comparison of the one or more parameter values to the one or more parameter threshold values.

[0117] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller may be configured to determine an alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment based on the one or parameter values received from the monitoring module and cause the dispensing module to dispense one or more chemicals to adjust the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment when the alkalinity level determined has reached or gone beyond one or more alkalinity threshold values.

[0118] In another example, a method may include sensing, with a monitoring module, one or more parameter values related to a parameter of water received at a system for monitoring and treating w ater of a treated environment, wherein the system is configured to be in fluid communication with a recirculation line of the treated environment and comprises the monitoring module, a system controller, and a dispensing module, and sending a control signal from the system controller to the dispensing module to treat water of the treated environment at the system, wherein the control signal is based on the one or more parameter values.

[0119] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the control signal may be configured to cause the dispensing module to dispense a chemical from a chemical dispensing cartridge into the water received at the system.

[0120] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the method may further include receiving, at the system controller, one or more parameter values for each of a plurality of parameters, determining, at the system controller, an index value based on the one or more parameter values for each of the plurality of parameters, comparing, at the system controller, the index value to one or more index threshold values, and when the index value goes beyond an index threshold value ofthe one or more index threshold values, sending the control signal based on the one or more parameter values to the dispensing module.

[0121] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the method may further include when the index value goes beyond the index threshold value, comparing a parameter value of a parameter of the one or more parameters to one or more parameter threshold values, and wherein the control signal sent to the dispensing module may be based on the comparison of the parameter value of the parameter to the one or more parameter threshold values.

[0122] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, comparing the index value to one or more index threshold values may comprise comparing the index value to a plurality index threshold values, and the method may further include when the index value reaches or goes beyond a first index threshold value of the plurality of index threshold values, comparing parameter values for a first set of parameters to one or more parameter threshold values associated with parameters of the first set of parameters, and when the index value reaches or goes beyond a second index threshold value of the plurality of index threshold values, comparing parameter values for the second set of parameters to one or more parameter threshold values associated with parameters of the second set of parameters.

[0123] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the system controller may be configured to continuously calculate the index value in real time as the one or more parameter values for each of a plurality of parameters are received at the system controller.

[0124] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the method may further include determining, at the system controller, an alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment based on the one or parameter values sensed with the monitoring module and dispensing, at the dispensing module, one or more chemicals to adjust the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment when the alkalinity level determined has reached or gone beyond one or more alkalinitythreshold values.

[0125] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, dispensing the one or more chemicals to adjust the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment may comprise dispensing, from the dispensing module, a pH decreaser chemical when the alkalinity level has reached or exceeded a first alkalinity threshold value to decrease the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment,dispensing, from the dispensing module, an alkalinity increaser chemical when the alkalinity level has reached or exceeded a second alkalinity threshold value to increase the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment, and taking no action with the dispensing module to change the alkalinity level of the water in the treated environment when the alkalinity level has not reach or gone beyond the first alkalinity threshold value or the second alkalinity threshold value.

[0126] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, determining the alkalinity level of water of the treated environment based on the one or more parameter values sensed with the monitoring module may comprise acquiring a water sample from the water of the treated environment in an analysis chamber of the system, sensing, with the monitoring module, an initial value related to a pH of the water sample, wherein the one or more parameter values sensed includes the initial value related to the pH of the water sample, dispensing, with the dispensing module, one or more know n amounts of a pH decreaser chemical into the water sample until a target pH of the water sample is achieved, determining, with the system controller, a total amount of pH decreaser chemical dispensed into the water sample, and determining, with the system controller, the alkalinity level of the water of the treatment environment based on the initial value related to the pH of the water sample, the target pH of the water sample, and the total amount of the pH decreaser chemical dispensed into the water sample.

[0127] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, determining the alkalinity level of water of the treated environment based on the one or more parameter values sensed with the monitoring module may comprise acquiring a w ater sample from the water of the treated environment in an analysis chamber of the system, sensing, with the monitoring module, an initial value related to a pH of the w ater sample, wherein the one or more parameter values sensed includes the initial value related to the pH of the w ater sample, dispensing, with the dispensing module, a predetermined amount of pH decreaser chemical into the water sample, sensing, with the monitoring module, a further value related to the pH of the water sample after the predetermined amount of pH decreaser chemical has been dispensed into the w ater sample, w herein the one or more parameter values sensed includes the further value related to the pH of the w ater sample, and determining, with the system controller, the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment based on the initial valuerelated to the pH of the water sample, the predetermined amount of the pH decreaser chemical, and the further value related to the pH of the water sample.

[0128] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the method may further include dispensing a chemical from a chemical dispensing cartridge of the dispensing module into the water received at the system in response to receiving the control signal at the dispensing module.

[0129] In a further example, a non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon, instructions that when executed by a computing device of a system for monitoring and treating water of a treated environment cause the computing device to perform operations comprising outputting a control signal to a monitoring module to cause the monitoring module to sense one or more parameter values related to a parameter of water received at the system, wherein the system is configured to be in fluid communication with a recirculation line of the treated environment and comprises the monitoring module, a system controller comprising the computing device, and a dispensing module and outputting a control signal to the dispensing module to cause the dispensing module to treat water of the treated environment at the system, wherein the control signal is based on the one or more parameter values.

[0130] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, wherein the operations may further comprise receiving one or more parameter values for each of a plurality of parameters, determining an index value based on the one or more parameter values for each of the plurality of parameters, comparing the index value to one or more index threshold values, and when the index value goes beyond an index threshold value of the one or more index threshold values, outputting the control signal based on the one or more parameter values to the dispensing module.

[0131] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, wherein the operations may further comprise receiving one or more parameter values for each of a plurality of parameters, determining an index value based on the one or more parameter values for each of the plurality of parameters, comparing the index value to one or more index threshold values, when the index value goes beyond the index threshold value, comparing a parameter value of a parameter of the one more parameters to one or more parameter threshold values, and wherein the control signal sent to the dispensing module is based on the comparison of the parameter value of the one or more parameters to the one or more parameter threshold values.

[0132] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the operations may further comprise when the index value goes beyond the index threshold value, comparing a parameter value of a parameter of the one more parameters to one or more parameter threshold values, and wherein the control signal sent to the dispensing module may be based on the comparison of the parameter value of the one or more parameters to the one or more parameter threshold values.

[0133] Additionally or alternatively to any of the examples above, the operations may further comprise determining an alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment based on the one or parameter values sensed with the monitoring module, and wherein the control signal may be configured to cause the dispensing module to dispense one or more chemicals to adjust the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment when the alkalinity level determined has reached or gone beyond one or more alkalinity threshold values.

[0134] The above summary of some example embodiments is not intended to describe each disclosed embodiment or every implementation of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0135] The invention may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0136] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of an illustrative configuration of a monitoring and dispensing system for monitoring and maintaining water quality in a treated environment;

[0137] Figure 2 is a schematic block diagram of an illustrative configuration of a monitoring and dispensing system for monitoring and maintaining water quality in a treated environment;

[0138] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an illustrative configuration of a dispensing module;

[0139] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an illustrative configuration of a monitoring module; and

[0140] Figure 5 is a schematic flow chart of an illustrative configuration of a machine learning algorithm that may be stored and used at the system controller;

[0141] Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of an illustrative configuration of a monitoring and dispensing system for monitoring and maintaining water quality’ in a treated environment;

[0142] Figure 7 is a schematic front view of the illustrative configuration of the monitoring and dispensing system depicted in Figure 6 with a front access panel removed;

[0143] Figure 8A is a schematic flow chart of an illustrative method for determining alkalinity of a treated environment;

[0144] Figure 8B is a schematic flow chart of another illustrative method for determining alkalinity of a treated environment;

[0145] Figure 9 is a schematic view of an illustrative configuration of the monitoring and dispensing system;

[0146] Figure 10 is a schematic view of an illustrative configuration of the monitoring and dispensing system;

[0147] Figure 11 is a schematic view of an illustrative configuration of the monitoring and dispensing system;

[0148] Figure 12 is a schematic flow chart of an illustrative method for monitoring the pH and ORP in the liquid; and

[0149] FIG. 13 is a schematic flow chart of an illustrative method for monitoring and treating water of a treated environment.

[0150] While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been show n by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit aspects of the invention to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0151] All numeric values are herein assumed to be modified by the term "about", whether or not explicitly indicated. The term “about” generally refers to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited value (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances, the term “about” may be indicative as including numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure.

[0152] The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers within that range (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1. 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4. and 5).

[0153] Although some suitable dimensions, ranges, and / or values pertaining to various components, features and / or specifications are disclosed, one of skill in the art, incited by the present disclosure, would understand desired dimensions, ranges and / or values may deviate from those expressly disclosed.

[0154] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and / or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0155] The following detailed description should be read with reference to the drawings in which similar elements in different drawings are numbered the same. The detailed description and the drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, depict illustrative embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The illustrative embodiments depicted are intended only as illustrative. Selected features of any illustrative embodiment may be incorporated into an additional embodiment unless clearly stated to the contrary.

[0156] Maintaining an appropriate chemical balance in contained water may require frequent monitoring of the water and careful addition of the correct chemicals at correct times. What may be desirable are systems and methods which automatically monitor contained water and dispense the appropriate chemicals as needed over time.

[0157] In some examples, an illustrative system may be configured to automatically monitor water or other liquid in a treated environment (e.g., a pool, spa or hot tub, cold plunge, etc.) and determine when adjustments to the chemicals are needed to maintain safe water. The system may be further configured to automatically dispense the appropriate chemicals as needed to maintain a desired chemical balance in the water or other liquid of the treated environment.

[0158] The system may collect any suitable data related to the liquid in the treated environment. For example, the system may collect data on pH, chlorine, mineral content, temperature, salt concentration, alkalinity, oxidation-reduction potential, chlorine production, chlorine production parameters, reverse polarity condition of a chlorine generator (e.g., a chlorine cell), turbidity , weather, usage of thetreated environment, and / or other suitable data related to the water or other liquid in the treated environment.

[0159] The data may be collected continuously or at predefined intervals (e.g., every minute, five minutes, ten minutes, etc.) The system may analyze the data and determine what adjustments, if any, are necessary. Precise amounts of chemicals may be released into the treated environment by the systems and based on the data. The system may be configured to re-check the water parameters after a predetermined length of time and / or at one or more times based on the data, and make further adjustments as necessary'. The system may display real-time analytics (e.g., data, data analysis, dispensing history', etc.) at a mobile app (on a user device), at the system’s user interface, at a website interface, and / or at one or more other suitable locations. While the present disclosure is described with respect to pools or spas (e.g., hot tubs), the methods, systems, and devices described herein may be used in any enclosed or open water system where water quality' is monitored, including, but not limited to, hot tubs, spas, pools, fountains, ponds, cold plunges, or the like.

[0160] Turning to the Figures, Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of an illustrative monitoring and dispensing system 10 for monitoring and maintaining water or other liquid quality' in a treated environment (e.g., a pool, spa, etc.) The system 10 may include a plurality of components, including, but not limited to, a control module or system controller 12, a dispensing unit or module 14 (e.g., a chemical dispensing unit or module, etc.), and a monitoring unit or module 16 (e.g., a chemical monitoring unit or module, etc.)

[0161] In some examples, the system 10 may be a modular system, but this is not required. Two or more of the system controller 12, the dispensing module 14, and / or the monitoring module 16 may be provided in a single housing where each component or module is removable and / or replaceable. In other suitable configurations, the system controller 12, the dispensing module 14, and / or the monitoring module 16 may be provided in one or more separate and distinct housings.

[0162] Utilizing a modular system may allow different components to be positioned at different locations in the treated environment and / or separately replaceable, if so desired. In some examples, the dispensing module 14 may be secured at a fixed location within the treated environment (e.g., near the filtration system) while the monitoring module 16 may float along the surface of the water. In other examples, the monitoring module 16 may be installed at or within a circulationsystem of or in communication with the treated environment. Such a positioning of the monitoring module 16 at or within the circulation system may help ensure the monitoring module 16 is measuring water which represents the overall condition of the treated environment. In another example, the dispensing module 14 may be installed close to the point of entry into the water system of the treated environment to ensure effective mixing and distribution of chemicals. Other suitable configurations are contemplated.

[0163] The system 10 having a modular configuration (e.g., as described herein) may allow individual components to be individually replaced, maintained, repaired, etc. without dismantling the entire system 10. It is contemplated that each module 12, 14, 16 may include a universal mechanical, optical, and / or electrical connection interface(s) to allow the modules to be quickly connected and / or disconnected. This may allow users to customize or scale the system 10 based on their specific needs. For example, for maintenance or replacement, a module 12, 14, 16 can be easily disconnected from the power and data transfer connections and a new module slotted in its place. Further, software and / or firmware updates may be applied to the individual modules 12, 14, 16 without having to take the system 10 offline for extended periods.

[0164] In some embodiments, the system 10 and / or individual modules 12, 14, 16 thereof may have a generally hexagonal cross-sectional shape or may be a hexagonal prism. A hexagonal shape may allow for efficient packing of internal components to maximize space utilization within the system 10 and / or individual modules 12, 14, 16 thereof. It is contemplated that a hexagonal shape may provide high strength-to-weight ratios to improve durability while allowing the system 10 and / or individual modules 12, 14, 16 thereof to be lightweight and / or portable. Further, a hexagonal shape may easily interlock with other systems 10 and / or the individual modules 12, 14, 16 thereof to facilitate scalability of the system in commercial applications where larger volume treatments may be required. In some configurations, the hexagonal structure may allow for 360° access to the system 10 and / or the individual modules 12, 14, 16 thereof such that maintenance or inspection may be conducted from any side thus ensuring convenience in tight spaces. Each face of the hexagon may include different operational interfaces, such as input / output ports, control panels, maintenance hatches, etc., which may provide comprehensive access points for users.

[0165] While the system 10 and / or the individual modules 12, 14, 16 thereof are described as having a generally hexagonal prism shape, the system 10 and / or the individual modules 12, 14, 16 thereof may take on other shapes as desired. Example suitable shapes of the system 10, the modules 12, 14, 16, and / or components thereof include, but are not limited to cubic shapes, rectangular prism shapes, cylindrical shapes, or other suitable shapes.

[0166] The system 10 may include any combination of any number of dispensing modules 14 and / or any number of monitoring modules 16, as desired. For example, the system 10 may include fewer than five or more than five dispensing modules 14 and / or fewer than ten or more than ten monitoring modules 16. In one example, the system 10 may include up to five dispensing modules 14 and up to ten monitoring modules 16.

[0167] The quantities of dispensing modules 14 and monitoring modules 16 may be user-adjustable and / or customizable. For example, the user may select the number of dispensing modules 14 and / or monitoring modules 16 based on their specific needs. When more than one dispensing module 14 and / or more than one monitoring module 16 are provided, one or more of the dispensing module 14 and / or the monitoring module 16 may be distributed and / or remotely located from one or more other module of the system 10 while maintaining wireless communication with the system controller module 12.

[0168] Tn some configurations, the system controller module 12 may automatically detect and configure the dispensing modules 14 and / or monitoring modules 16. Further, the system controller module 12 may be configured to configure itself based on the number of dispensing modules 14 and / or monitoring modules 16 in the system 10.

[0169] The physical accessibility of the system 10 and / or the individual modules 12, 14, 16 thereof may be further enhanced by the software provided at the system controller 12. The software may allow for remote monitoring and / or control by computing devices of and / or in communication with the system controller 12, thus ensuring that physical access is complemented by digital oversight.

[0170] When the system 10 is provided as a module system with each individual module 12, 14, 16 secured to at least one other module, as shown in Figure 1. data transmission between the modules 12, 14, 16 may be faster than when the modules 12, 14, 16 are located at different locations within the treated environment. However,other suitable configurations are contemplated. In some examples, the system controller 12 may function or be positioned as an entity separate from one or both of the modules 14, 16. Such a configuration may be useful when more than one dispensing module 14 and / or monitoring module 16 are distributed across different parts of a treated environment (e.g., a larger pool), such that the system controller 12, the dispensing module 14, and / or the monitoring module 16 communication over one or more wired or wireless communication network.

[0171] The exterior components of the system 10 may be formed from any suitable material. Example suitable materials forming the exterior components of the system 10 include, but are not limited to, metals, polymers, alloys, titanium-vanadium alloy, aluminum, steel, aerospace-grade aluminum, and / or other suitable materials. In some examples, the exterior components of the system 10 and / or the individual modules 12, 14, 16 thereof may be formed from aerospace-grade aluminum. In some examples, each of the system controller 12, the dispensing module 14, and the monitoring module 16 may include a housing 18, 20, 22 and the housing 18, 20, 22 of each module 12, 14, 16 may be formed from aerospace-grade aluminum or other suitable material. Aerospace-grade aluminum may have a high strength to weight ratio which allows the system 10 and / or the individual modules 12, 14, 16 to withstand mechanical stress while remaining lightweight for ease of installation and handling. Further, aerospace-grade aluminum is corrosion-resistant which may ensure durability and longevity in the chemically rich and potentially corrosive environment of the treated environment. Aerospace-grade aluminum is also thermally conductive which may facilitate maintaining consistent temperatures within the system 10 and / or the individual modules 12. 14. 16 thereof. Consistent temperatures may contribute to efficient chemical mixing and reaction kinetics.

[0172] In some examples, the housings 18, 20, 22 may further include an antimicrobial coating. Any suitable anti-microbial coatings or other suitable materials may be utilized. In some examples, the anti-microbial coating may be a silver ion coating. Incorporating silver ions into the system 10 and / or the individual modules 12, 14, 16 thereof may provide a continual defense against microbial growth on the surfaces of the system 10 and / or the individual modules 12, 14, 16 thereof, which may prevent biofilm formation and / or ensure system hygiene. It is further contemplated that an anti-microbial coating may help safeguard the water quality not just chemically but also biologically, ensuring that the water remains safe and clean forusers. Additionally, the anti-microbial coating may reduce the need for frequent cleaning and maintenance, thereby decreasing downtime and labor (and / or time) costs associated with the upkeep of the system 10 and / or the individual modules 12, 14, 16 thereof.

[0173] In some configurations, the system 10 and / or the individual modules 12, 14, 16 thereof may include one or more LED indicators thereon. The LED indicators may provide feedback regarding the status of each module 12, 14, 16. For example, the LED indicators may provide a visual indication if the module 12, 14, 16 is functioning correctly or if the module 12, 14, 16 requires attention. For example, the LED indicators may display green for optimal levels, yellow for attention needed, and red for emergency. This is just one example. Other colors, configurations and alerts may be used, as desired.

[0174] The system controller 12 may be configured to receive data from the monitoring module 16, analyze the data, and make decisions based on the data. For example, the system controller 12 may include control circuitry and logic configured to operate, control, command, etc. the various components of the dispensing module 14 and / or monitoring module 16 and / or issue alerts or notifications. In some examples, the system controller 12 may be configured to issue control commands to dispense chemicals from the dispensing module 14 based on the sensor readings obtained at the monitoring module 16. Each of the dispensing module 14 and / or monitoring module 16 may be operatively connected to the system controller 12 via a corresponding communications module or port 48, 70, as depicted in Figure 2.

[0175] Figure 2 is a schematic block diagram of an illustrative configuration of the system 10 for monitoring and maintaining water quality in a treated environment (e.g., a pool, spa, etc.) The system controller 12 may be in communication with any number of dispensing modules 14 and / or monitoring modules 16 as desired, such as, but not limited to, one, two, three, four, ten, twenty7, or more. The system controller 12 may be configured to communicate with the dispensing module 14, the monitoring module 16. and / or other computing devices (e.g., local or remote computing devices) over one or more networks 24, including a local area netw ork (LAN) and / or a wide area network (WAN), and / or a communication connection may be made to an external computing device (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider). Such communication can occur via one or more communication modules or ports 26 (e.g., communication components) at the system controller 12and one or more communication modules or ports 48, 70 at the dispensing module 14 and / or the monitoring module 16. The communication port(s) 26 of the system controller 12 and / or the communication ports 48, 70 at the dispensing module 14 and monitoring module 16 can be or include wireless communication ports including a wireless transceiver for wirelessly sending and / or receiving signals over a wireless network. In one example, the communication port(s) 26 of the system controller 12 and / or the communication ports 48, 70 at the dispensing module 14 and monitoring module 1 may use any desired wireless communication protocol such as but not limited to cellular communication, ZigBee, REDLINK™, Bluetooth, WiFi, IrDA, dedicated short range communication (DSRC), EnOcean, and / or any other suitable common or proprietary wireless protocol, as desired. However, other suitable communication protocols are contemplated. In some cases, the one or more networks 24 may be or may include a wired network or combinations of a wired and a wireless network. In some examples, the communication port(s) 26 of the system controller 12 and / or the communication ports at the dispensing module 14 and / or the monitoring module 16 may use a secure encrypted channel to ensure data integrity and privacy.

[0176] While not explicitly shown, the system controller 12 may include one or more other communication ports which may be a wireless communications port including a wireless transceiver for sending and / or receiving signals over a further wireless network. However, other configurations are contemplated and the other communication port(s) may be wired communication ports. In some configurations, the further network may be a wireless network, a wared network, or combinations of a wired and a wireless network. The other communication port(s) may be in communication with a wired or wireless router or gateway for connecting to the further network, but this is not required. When so provided, the router or gateway may be integral to (e.g., within) the system controller 12 or may be provided as a separate device. The further network may be a LAN or WAN including, for example, the Internet. In some examples, the system controller 12 may communicate over the further network with an external web service hosted by one or more external web servers (e.g., the cloud).

[0177] The system controller 12 may include a processor 28 (e.g., microprocessor, microcontroller, etc.) and memory 30. In some cases, the system controller 12 may’ include a user interface 32 including a display and a means for receiving user input (e.g., touch screens, buttons, keyboards, etc.) In someembodiments, the user interface 32 may include a microphone and / or speaker for receiving voice activated commands and / or issuing audio alerts. In some cases, the user interface 32 may be integral to the system controller 12. Alternatively, or additionally, the system controller 12 may be operatively coupled to a remotely located user interface including a display and a means for receiving user input. For example, the remotely located user interface may be a display in a facility monitoring station, a portable device, such as, but not limited to a smartphone, tablet computer, laptop computer, etc., or other such device. It is contemplated that the remote user interface may communicate with the system controller 12 via the first network 24 and / or the second network, as desired. The user interface 32 may walk or guide the user through initial settings and preferences when the system 10 is first used.

[0178] The processor 28 may include a single processor or more than one processor working individually or with one another. The processor 28 may be configured to execute instructions, including instructions that may be loaded into the memory’ 30 and / or other suitable memory. Example processor components may include, but are not limited to, microprocessors, microcontrollers, multi-core processors, central processing units, graphical processing units, digital signal processors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), discrete circuitry, and / or other suitable types of data processing devices.

[0179] The memory 30 may be any type of storage medium that can be accessed by the processor 28 to perform various examples of the present disclosure. For example, the memory' 30 may be a non-transitory computer readable medium having computer readable instructions (e.g.. computer or application program instructions, application program code of a mobile application or software, control algorithm software, and / or other suitable instructions) stored thereon that are executable by' the processor 28 for performing one or more methods described herein.

[0180] The memory 30 may be volatile or nonvolatile memory. The memory 30 may also be removable (e.g.. portable) memory or non-removable (e.g.. internal) memory. For example, the memory 30 may be random access memory (RAM) (e.g., dynamic random access memory' (DRAM) and / or phase change random access memory' (PCRAM)), read-only memory (ROM) (e.g., electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) and / or compact-disk read-only memory (CD-ROM)), flash memory, a laser disk, a digital versatile disk (DVD) or otheroptical disk storage, and / or a magnetic medium such as magnetic cassettes, tapes, or disks, among other ty pes of memory.

[0181] Further, although the memory 30 is illustrated as being located in the system controller 12, embodiments of the present disclosure are not so limited. For example, the memory' 30 may be located internal to another computing resource (e.g., enabling computer readable instructions to be downloaded over the Internet or another wired or wireless connection).

[0182] As discussed, the memory 30 may' be in communication with the processor 28. The memory' 30 may be used to store any desired information such as, but not limited to, control algorithms, configuration protocols, set points, schedule times, diagnostic limits, and the like. In some embodiments, the memory 30 may include specific control programs or modules configured to analyze data obtained from the monitoring module 16, but this is not required. In some examples, the processor 28 may store information within the memory' 30 and may subsequently retrieve the stored information from the memory 30. The processor 28 may be configured to refine the raw sensor data from the monitoring module 16. Further, the processor 28 may be configured to filter noise and enhance the accuracy of measurements thus ensuring that the system controller 12 is making decisions based on high-fidelity information.

[0183] In some configurations, the system controller 12 may include an input / output block (I / O block) 34 having a number of terminals (e.g., wired terminals and / or other suitable terminals) for receiving one or more signals from the dispensing module 14 and / or the monitoring module 16 and / or for providing one or more control signals to the dispensing module 14 and / or the monitoring module 16 to control operation of one or both of the dispensing module 14 and the monitoring module (e.g., to effect one or more methods discussed herein and / or to take one or more other suitable actions). For example, the I / O block 34 may communicate with one or more components of the system 10, including, but not limited to, the dispensing module 14, the monitoring module 16. and / or other suitable module. The system controller 12 may have any number of terminals for accepting a connection from one or more components of the system 10. However, how many terminals are utilized and which terminals are connected (e.g., wired) may be dependent upon the particular configuration of the system 10. In some cases, the I / O block 34 may be configured toreceive wireless signals from the dispensing module 14, monitoring module 16, and / or other suitable modules of the system 10.

[0184] The user interface 32, when provided, may be any suitable user interface 32 that permits the system controller 12 to display and / or solicit information, as well as accept one or more user interactions with the system controller 12. For example, the user interface 32 may permit a user to locally enter data such as control set points, types of chemicals used, schedules, and the like. In one example, the user interface 32 may be a physical user interface that is accessible at the system controller 12 and may include a display and / or a distinct keypad. The display may be any suitable display. In some instances, a display may include or may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), and in some cases an e-ink display, a fixed segment display, or a dot matrix LCD display. In other cases, the user interface may be a touch screen LCD panel that functions as both display and keypad. The touch screen LCD panel may be adapted to solicit values for a number of operating parameters and / or to receive such values, but this is not required. In still other cases, the user interface 32 may be a dynamic graphical user interface.

[0185] In some instances, the user interface 32 need not be physically accessible to a user at the system controller 12. Instead, the user interface may be a virtual user interface 32 that is accessible via the first network 24 and / or second network using a computing device and / or a mobile wireless device such as a smart phone, tablet, e- reader, laptop computer, personal computer, key fob, smart home devices, or the like. In some cases, the virtual user interface 32 may be provided by an app or apps (e.g., a software application or program) executed by a user’s remote device for the purposes of remotely interacting with the system controller 12. Through the virtual user interface 32 provided by the app on the user’s remote device, the user may change control set points, types of chemicals used, schedules, respond to alerts, update their user profile, view' sensor data, view' quantities of chemicals dispensed, view' calibration data, receive low chemical notifications, generate reports, view or generate a maintenance schedule, and / or the like. Further, the app may display real time statistics such as, but not limited to, water temperature, pH level, chlorine level, saline levels, mineral content, and / or other sensed or calculated data. In some cases, the app may allow for one touch actions such as “quick adjust,’" weekly report,"’ “auto-order,” or the like.

[0186] In some configurations, the processor 28 may be provided on a printed circuit board (PCB). The system controller 12 may use a hierarchical PCB design to separate out high-voltage, low-voltage, and data signal lines to reduce interference. The PCB may be disposed within the housing 18 of the system controller 12. The housing 18 of the system controller 12 may be centrally positioned for easy access and / or protection from the elements. In some cases, the PCB may be housed in a watertight compartment within the housing 18 to safeguard against moisture and / or chemical exposure. It is contemplated that a portion of the housing 18 may be provided with a clear cover or window to allow for visual inspection of the PCB without disassembly of the system controller 12.

[0187] Referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3, where Figure 3 depicts a schematic diagram of an illustrative dispensing module 14, the dispensing module 14 may include a housing 20 defining one or more storage chambers 36a-d for storing one or more chemicals and / or other materials or devices for treating water. While not explicitly shown, the dispensing module 14 may include one or more lids that lock in place over the storage chambers 36a-d. The lids may be opened with a key or electronically released via a command issued in an application on a remote user device. In some configurations, the one or more storage chambers 36a-d may be a compartmentalized canister. It is contemplated that each chemical or material may be stored in its own unique chamber 36a-d and may be isolated from other chemicals during storage. In one example, a first storage chamber 36a may house or store chemicals to increase pH (e.g., sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, or other pH increaser), a second storage chamber 36b may house or store chemicals to decrease pH (e.g., muriatic acid, sodium bisulfate, or other pH decreaser), a third storage chamber 36c may house or store chlorine or bromine, and a fourth storage chamber 36d may house or store mineral solutions. Additionally or alternatively, one of the storage chambers 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d may house or store chemicals to increase alkalinity, decrease alkalinity, chlorine, and / or other suitable chemicals. The dispensing module 14 may include fewer than four or more than four storage chambers 36a-d, as desired. It is further contemplated that the types of chemicals may be dependent on the technique used to maintain the water or other liquid quality (e.g., chlorine, bromine, salt water, etc.) It is contemplated that the system controller 12 may track chemical usage patterns and may predict when more chemicals may be needed. The system controller 12 may issue an alert via the user interface 32 ortransmit an alert to the remote user device when more chemicals or materials are needed, are to be dispensed, and / or are being dispensed. In some cases, the chemicals may be automatically reordered via the remote user device.

[0188] The housing 20 may further enclose a pre-mix chamber 38, a mixing chamber 40, and a controller 42. In some cases, the controller 42 may include a processor 44 (e.g., microprocessor, microcontroller, etc.) and a memory 46. where the processer 44 and / or the memory 46 may be similar to other processors and / or memory described herein unless expressly indicated otherwise. The controller 42 may be configured to issue control commands to various components of the dispensing module 14 and / or process information received from the system controller 12. The memory 46 may be used to store any desired information, such as, but not limited to. machine instructions for how to dispense chemicals, mix chemicals, initiate fluid flow, or the like.

[0189] The communication port(s) 48 may allow the dispensing module 14 to communicate with other components of the system 10 such as, but not limited to. the system controller 12. The communication port(s) 48 may be enclosed in a waterproof chamber within the housing 20 of the dispensing module 14. The communication port(s) 48 may provide wired and / or wireless communication. In one example, the communication port(s) 48 may use any desired wired or wireless communication protocol such as but not limited to cellular communication, ZigBee. REDLINK™, Bluetooth, WiFi, IrDA, dedicated short range communication (DSRC), EnOcean, and / or any other suitable common or proprietary’ protocols, as desired.

[0190] As described above, the housing 20 of the dispensing module 14 may be formed from any suitable material including, but not limited to, aerospace-grade aluminum. The interior components of the dispensing module 14 and / or portions of the system controller 12 and / or portions of the monitoring module 16 may be formed from a titanium-vanadium alloy, or other alloy material configured to resist corrosion and / or prevent chemical interaction. In some embodiments, the dispensing module 14. the various components thereof, and / or the various components of the system 10 may further include a nanocoating, or other coating, configured to improve corrosion resistance. Some illustrative coatings may include, but are not limited to, hydrophobic coatings (e.g., silicone-based nanocoating), oleophobic coatings, antimicrobial coatings, anti-corrosion coatings (e.g.. zine oxide nanoparticles), selfcleaning coatings, ultraviolet (UV) protective coatings (e.g., zinc oxide or titaniumdioxide), etc. Hydrophobic coatings may repel water, which can keep components dry and prevent scaling or biofilm formation. Oleophobic coatings may repel oils, which can be beneficial in environments where organic materials like body oils are present. Antimicrobial coatings may be infused with nanoparticles like silver or copper to inhibit the grow th of bacteria and algae on surfaces. Anti-corrosion coatings may protect metal components from corrosive chemicals. Self-cleaning coatings may utilize photocatalytic nanoparticles like titanium dioxide to help break down organic matter when exposed to UV light which may reduce maintenance needs. UV protective coatings may protect sensitive components from UV degradation. A UV protective coating may block or absorb UV radiation. It is contemplated that one or more coatings or t pes of coatings may be used. For example, more than one layer may be applied or the coating type may be determined by the component. In other examples, nanoparticles may be combined to offer multiple benefits. In one example, nanoparticles may be combined to provide a coating that is both hydrophobic and anti-microbial. This is just one example. Any combination of two or more types of nanoparticles may be used to achieve the desired properties, as desired. However, materials may be selected to provide protection and efficiency but also to not interfere with the system’s ability to accurately monitor and adjust the water chemistry. When so provided, nanocoating(s) may enhance the durability of sensors and mechanical parts exposed to harsh chemicals and / or environmental conditions. Nanocoating(s) may also optimize the surface properties of the embedded smart sensors and / or the membrane 50 for better detection and interaction with water treatment chemicals. Further, nanocoating(s) may reduce need for cleaning and maintenance at the dispensing module 14, as the nanocoating have self-cleaning properties due to their hydrophobic or photocatalytic nature.

[0191] In some configurations, the sizes of the one or more storage chambers 36a-d may be approximately the same. In other configurations, the size of one or more storage chambers 36a-d may vary from one another based on the chemical stored therein, the size of the treatment environment, the number of storage chambers, etc. For example, some chemicals may be used in larger volumes and / or at more frequent intervals and thus, may require more to be stored within the dispensing module 14. In some cases, the first and second storage chambers 36a, 36b may be sized and shaped to hold up to about 2 liters each of pH up and pH down. respectively, to adjust the pH of the water or other liquid. In some cases, the pH upand / or pH down may also be used to adjust the total alkalinity of the water or other liquid. However, the first and second storage chambers 36a, 36b may hold less than 2 liters or more than 2 liters, as desired.

[0192] In some cases, the third storage chamber 36c may include a cartridge system with each cartridge holding about 500 grams (g) of chlorine. A similar cartridge system may be used for bromine. The cartridges may hold less than 500 g or more than 500 g, as desired. Further, the third storage chamber 36c may hold any number of cartridges as desired, such as, one, two, three, four, or more. However, a cartridge system is not required. Chlorine or bromine may be provided without a cartridge system.

[0193] In some cases, the fourth chamber 36d may hold about 1 liter of mineral solution and / or other suitable amount of material. Mineral solutions may include copper, silver, limestone, or the like to inhibit the growth of algae and bacteria and help to maintain pH levels.

[0194] The dispensing module 14 may further include a pre-mix chamber 38 and a mixing chamber 40. The pre-mix chamber 38 may store and pre-mix the treatment chemicals. For example, if pH increaser and chlorine are needed to treat the pool / spa water, pH increaser and chlorine may be dispensed from their respective storage chambers 36a, 36c into the pre-mix chamber 38. While not explicitly shown, each chamber 36a-d may each may include a dispensing mechanism adjacent to a bottom end thereof. The dispensing mechanisms may be configured to release a precise quantity of chemical into the pre-mix chamber 38. In some examples, the dispensing mechanism may be a retractable drawer-like structure configured to open and close with a hydraulic soft-touch mechanism. However, other dispensing mechanisms may be used, as desired. In other examples, the dispensing mechanism may be a metered pump. It is contemplated that the chemicals may be dispensed based on a signal received from the system controller 12.

[0195] In the pre-mix chamber 38, the chemicals may remain in a concentrated form. The concentrated chemicals may be diluted with pool / spa water in the mixing chamber 40. Within the mixing chamber 40, the concentrated chemicals may be diluted to an optimal concentration for dispensing into the pool / spa. The staged mixing may allow for precise chemical dosing while preventing chemical shock to the ecosystem of the pool / spa. The pre-mix chamber 38 and the mixing chamber 40 may provide a safe fail-over mechanism to prevent improper mixing or chemical reactions.For example, the system controller 12 may include hard limits on quantities of chemicals that may be dispensed in a single adjustment or over a period of time. Further, the system controller 12 may close valves and pumps in the event of a power failure to prevent unintentional dispensing of chemicals.

[0196] In some embodiments, the pre-mix chamber 38 and the mixing chamber 40 may be separated by a membrane 50 (e g., schematically depicted in FIG. 2 as a line between the pre-mix chamber 38 and the mixing chamber 40). However, this is not required. The membrane 50 may be formed from a polymeric material configured to selectively fluidly couple the pre-mix chamber 38 with the mixing chamber 40. In some examples, the membrane 50 may be formed from materials configured to withstand the prolonged contact with the chemicals used in the treated environment.

[0197] When so provided, the membrane 50 may allow for selective chemical interaction between the pre-mix chamber 38 and the mixing chamber 40 when optimal mixing conditions are met. In some embodiments, the membrane 50 may be a micro- porous membrane. However, the membrane 50 is not limited to micro-pores. The membrane 50 may act as a semi-permeable barrier between the pre-mix chamber 38 and the mixing chamber 40, which selectively allows certain chemicals to pass through or facilitates the optimal mixing of chemicals with water. For example, the membrane 50 may have an increased selectivity for certain chemicals.

[0198] In some embodiments, the membrane 50 may be formed from, or partially formed from a smart polymer or otherwise include smart polymer segments.Generally, a smart polymer may reversibly change shape or properties in response to a stimulus. In some cases, a smart polymer may expand, contract, become porous, etc. in response to a stimulus. Thus, when a desired concentration of the chemical(s) is detected in the pre-mix chamber 38, the stimulus may be applied to the membrane 50 to temporarily fluidly couple the pre-mix chamber 38 with the mixing chamber 40. Some illustrative stimuli may include, but are not limited to, temperature, humidity , ultrasound, light, mechanical forces, electrical or magnetic fields, pH. ionic strength, enzymes, biomolecules, etc. In some examples, the stimulus may be the desired chemical concentration within the pre-mix chamber 38. After the chemicals pass from the pre-mix chamber 38 into the mixing chamber 40, the stimulus may be removed or an alternative stimulus applied to fluidly isolate the pre-mix chamber 38 from the mixing chamber 40 via the membrane 50.

[0199] In some embodiments, the membrane 50 may be embedded with sensors (e.g., smart sensors, etc.) that monitor the chemical concentration gradient across the membrane 50. The sensors may be configured to communicate with the system controller 12 and send the chemical concentration of the pre-mix chamber 38 and / or the mixing chamber 40 to the system controller 12. When the optimal concentration is achieved, the system controller 12 may issue a command to release the solution into the mixing chamber 40 or directly into the treated environment.

[0200] Alternatively, or additionally to the membrane 50, the pre-mix chamber 38 and the mixing chamber 40 may be selectively coupled via a controlled valve 52 or controlled system. For example, chemicals may be released into the pre-mix chamber 38. Once the chemicals are in the pre-mix chamber 38 and the dispensing mechanism is closed, the system controller 12 may issue a command to open the valve 52. In other examples, the controller 42 of the dispensing module 14 may control the valve 52.

[0201] A controlled amount of the chemicals in the pre-mix chamber 38 may be released into the mixing chamber 40. Within the mixing chamber 40. the chemicals may then be diluted with water from the treatment area. The mixing chamber 40 may be selectively fluidly coupled. In some cases, a pump 56 and / or other fluid control mechanisms (e.g., valves, etc.) may be provided in-line with the fluid inlet tube 54. When water from the treated environment is required to dilute the chemicals in the mixing chamber 40, the system controller 12 may issue a command to the pump 56 or other flow control mechanisms to fluidly couple the fluid inlet tube 54 with the mixing chamber 40 or to actively cause a flow of water into the mixing chamber 40 to dilute the chemicals. Once the water has entered the mixing chamber 40 a mixing unit 58, such as, but not limited to a mixer blade, within the mixing chamber 40 may be activated, if so provided. The mixing unit 58 may be configured to induce a vortex or mixing within the mixing chamber 40.

[0202] In some examples, the pre-mix chamber 38 and / or the mixing chamber 40 may be sized and shaped to increase mixing within the interior of the mixing chamber 40. For example, in some cases, the pre-mix chamber 38 and / or the mixing chamber 40 may be contoured, baffled, and / or have a generally helical shaped interior cavity to induce a vortex as water flows into and / or out of the pre- mix chamber 38 and / or the mixing chamber 40. This may create dynamic and efficient mixing of the water and chemicals to ensure a thorough integration of the treatment chemicals into the water.It is contemplated that shaping the mixing chamber 40 in a manner which will induce a vortex in the flow of the water may eliminate or reduce the need to provide a mechanical mixing system (e.g., mixing unit 58) in the mixing chamber 40. The elimination of a mechanical mixing system may reduce energy consumption. Alternatively, or additionally, the vortex mixing may begin in the pre-mix chamber 38. For example, the pre-mix chamber 38 may receive incoming water (from the treatment environment) and treatment chemicals (from the storage chambers 36a-d). The chemicals may be introduced into the initial or pre-mix chamber in a way that, when the water flow begins, it immediately carries the chemicals into the spiral pattern. While not explicitly shown, the pre-mix chamber 38 may be fluidly coupled with a fluid inlet tube configured to provide the treatment environment water to the pre-mix chamber 38. After initial mixing, the water and chemical solution may pass through a micro-membrane into the mixing chamber 40, where the mixing action completes, ensuring even distribution of chemicals before the water is returned to the treated environment. The water including the added chemicals may be returned to the treated environment via a fluid outlet pipe or tube 60 configured to provide water from the mixing chamber 40 to the treated environment.

[0203] It is contemplated that the pump 56 may alternatively be fluidly coupled to the fluid outlet tube 60 or the fluid inlet tube of the pre-mix chamber 38 (if so provided). The pump 56 may be a variable speed pump configured to dynamically adjust water flow based on real-time analytics from sensors (e.g., within the monitoring module 16 or within the dispensing module 14). For example, the flow rate of the pump 56 may be increased or decreased to ensure the water quality is consistently maintained. In some examples, the flow rate may be adjustable from 5 gallons per minute (gpm) to 50 gpm increments of 0.5 gpm. However, the flow rate may be less than the 5 gpm or more than 50 gpm. Further, adjustment increments of less than 0.5 gpm or more than 0.5 gpm may be used. In some examples, the flow rate of the pump 56 may be adjusted or the pump 56 activated based on chemical concentration levels (e.g., ensuring that the correct balance of sanitizing agents is maintained), water temperature (e.g., optimizing the reaction rates of chemicals with water), water flow rate (e.g., maintaining an efficient flow for even distribution of chemicals), pH levels (e.g., ensuring that water acidity or alkalinity remains within safe and comfortable ranges for users), total dissolved solids (TDS) (e.g., keeping the water clean and reducing the likelihood of scaling and staining), bather load based onestimated usage patterns (e.g., adapting to the increased demand for sanitization after heavy use), other factors or data, and / or combinations thereof. These parameters may be continuously monitored by sensors in the monitoring module 16 or at the system controller 12 to determine the flow rate and / or usage of the pump 56. The system controller 12 may utilize the sensed data to determine the optimal pump speed and ensure efficient mixing and distribution of chemicals thus providing a tailored water treatment process that maintains water quality and system efficiency. For example, a higher flow rate may speed up the mixing process, allowing chemicals to react more quickly, whereas a lower flow rate may be used for slower, more thorough mixing.

[0204] In some embodiments, the system controller 12 may be configured to control the pump 56 to modulate water flow rates to match the requirements of the mixing chamber 40. This may enhance the dispersion of treatment chemicals throughout the treated environment. In some examples, the flow rate of the pump 56 may be selected to complement the fluid flow dynamics of the mixing chamber 40 (or pre-mix chamber 38) to make the chemical mixing process more efficient. In some embodiments, the pump 56 may be continually operated to provide a constant flow of water through the mixing chamber 40. In some cases, the constant flow rate may be a default flow rate optimized for standard conditions. The system controller 12 may increase or decrease the flow rate from the default flow rate based on sensed conditions. In other embodiments, the pump 56 may be selectively activated when the system controller 12 determines that additional chemicals are needed to maintain the water quality of the treatment area. It is contemplated that the system controller 12 may monitor the flow rate of the pump 56 and correlate the flow rate with the sensed changes in the water quality’ and / or the quantity of chemicals dispensed. The system controller 12 may use this information to control the flow rate of the pump 56 differently in future chemical adjustments. For example, the system controller 12 may include algorithms which allow for a more granular control of the flow' rate based on a multitude of parameters. These algorithms may consider historical data, predictive modeling, and real-time sensor feedback to adjust flow rates dynamically and proactively, rather than reactively. For example, the flow rate may be increased in response to a predicted need in chemical dispensing. In some cases, the system controller 12 may leam and adapt from each chemical dispensing event to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of the system 10 over time. For example, the system controller 12 may be configured to anticipate needs and adjust flow ratespreemptively to maintain optimal conditions, which may result in better resource efficiency (e.g., less energy usage) and / or improved maintenance outcomes. It is further contemplated that the system controller 12 may be configured to dispense chemicals when energy costs are lower.

[0205] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an illustrative monitoring module 16. The monitoring module 16 may be configured to be substantially continuously in contact with the water or other liquid in the treatment environment. For example, the monitoring module 1 may include an array or plurality of sensors configured to measure or detect the chemical levels in the pool / spa water as well as gather data on other environmental and / or water conditions. Generally, the sensor readings may be transmitted to the system controller 12 for processing.

[0206] With references to Figures 2 and 4, the monitoring module 16 may include a housing 22 configured to enclose a plurality of sensors 62a-k, a controller 64, a memory' 66, a processor 68 and one or more communication port(s) 70. The memory’ 66 and / or the processor 68 may be similarly configured as the other memory’ and / or processors described herein, unless expressly indicated otherwise. As described above, the housing 22 may be formed from aerospace grade aluminum while the interior components may be formed from a titanium-vanadium alloy. However, other materials may be used as desired. In some examples, the housing 22 may include a weight positioned adjacent the bottom end thereof. The weight may help ensure the monitoring module 1 remains upright in water (e.g., when the monitoring module 16 is floating in the water).

[0207] In some cases, the controller 64 may be configured to issue control commands to the sensors 62a-k and / or process information received therefrom. In some cases, a single controller 64 may control each of the sensors 62a-k. In other embodiments, each sensor 62a-k may include its own PCB or controller 64. The controller 64 may also be in communication with, or operatively coupled to the memory’ 66. The memory 66 may be used to store any desired information, such as, but not limited to, machine instructions for how to process data from digital signals from the sensors, or the like. The communication port(s) 70 may allow the monitoring module 16 to communicate with other components of the system 10 such as, but not limited to. the system controller 12. The communication port(s) 70 may be enclosed in a waterproof chamber within the housing 22 of the monitoring module 16. The communication port(s) 70 may provide wired or wireless communication. In oneexample, the communication port(s) 70 may use any desired wireless communication protocol such as but not limited to cellular communication, ZigBee. REDLINK™, Bluetooth, WiFi, IrDA, dedicated short range communication (DSRC), EnOcean, and / or any other suitable common or proprietary’ wireless protocol, as desired.

[0208] It is contemplated that the monitoring module 16 may include a variety of different sensors 62a-k and / or sensor types to monitor a range of parameters essential to the water or other liquid quality from the treated environment. In some examples, the monitoring module 1 may include sensors 62a-k to measure up to ten or more water quality7parameters. For example, the monitoring module 16 may include a pH sensor 62a, a hardness sensor 62b, a salinity sensor 62c, a chlorine sensor 62d, a bromine sensor 62e, a conductivity sensor 62f, an oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) sensor 62g, an alkalinity sensor 62h, a turbidity sensor 62i, a temperature sensor 62j, a pressure sensor 62k, a total dissolved solids (TDS) sensor 621, and / or other suitable sensors. In some examples, the pH sensor 62a may be a glass electrode pH sensor and / or one or more other suitable pH sensors configured to measure hydrogen ion concentration and facilitate maintaining optimal conditions for a bather and chlorine efficiency, but other suitable configurations are contemplated. In some examples, the hardness sensor 62b may detect calcium and magnesium ion through an ion-selective electrode, but other suitable configurations are contemplated. In some examples, the salinity sensor 62c may7use electrical conductivity to determine the salt content in the water in salt water-based treated environments, but other suitable configurations are contemplated. In some examples, the chlorine sensor 62d may include a specialized electrode configured to measure free chlorine levels which is essential for disinfection in chlorine-based treated environments, but other suitable configurations are contemplated. In some examples, the bromine sensor 62e may include a specialized electrode configured to measure free bromine levels which is essential for disinfection in bromine-based treated environments, but other suitable configurations are contemplated. In some examples, the conductivity7sensor 62f may measure the water's electrical conductivity, which correlates with total dissolved solids (TDS), but other suitable configurations are contemplated and the system may include one or more other suitable TDS sensors. In some examples, the ORP sensor 62g may be a platinum electrode configured to assess the oxidation-reduction potential of the water which may be indicative of the water’s ability to break down contaminants, but other suitable configurations are contemplated. In some examples, the alkalinity sensor 62hmay utilize a colorimetric assay integrated with a photodiode to measure bicarbonate and carbonate ion concentrations, but other suitable configurations are contemplated. In some examples, the turbidity sensor 62i may use a nephelometric method (e.g., measuring suspended particulates using a light beam and light detector) to measure the clarity of the water by detecting scattered light, but other suitable configurations are contemplated. In some examples, the temperature sensor 62j may be a thermistor or thermocouple configured to provide accurate water temperature readings, but other suitable configurations are contemplated. In some examples, the temperature of the water may be determined and / or may be indicative of the correct chemical dosing. Additional sensors may be used, as desired. For example, in some configurations, an accelerometer may be included to detect water movement which may be correlated to usage patterns. In some cases, colorimetric sensor arrays may be provided for chemical analysis. Further, while not all sensors 62a-k may be useful in each type of treated environment (e.g., a chlorine sensor 62d may not used in a bromine-based pool / spa), the monitoring module 16 may be provided with one or more types of sensors 62a-6, each type of sensor 62a-k, and / or additional or alternative sensors. However, other suitable configurations are contemplated.

[0209] The sensors 62a-k may be provided in a compact modular array which may allow for easy replacement and upgrading of individual sensors. The modular array may be configured to align the sensors 62a-k with one or more openings 72a-k in the housing 22 to allow fluid communication between the sensors 62a-k and the water or other liquid from the treated environment. For example, the openings 72a-k may allow the sensors 62a-k to contact the water and / or other liquid and measure the properties thereof. While Figure 4 illustrates large distinct openings 72a-k. the openings 72a-k may be a plurality of microscopic openings. The openings 72a-k may form distinct clusters adjacent to a respective sensor 62a-k or may be distributed over an entirety of an outer surface of the housing 22 of the monitoring module 16.

[0210] In other embodiments, the openings 72a-k may be a system of fluidic channels (e.g., microfluidic channels, etc.) In some examples, microfluidic channels may be etched into a substrate (interior or exterior to the housing 22). Water may flow through the microfluidic channels and interact with embedded sensors 62a-k. The sensors 62a-k may be nano-scale sensors which may allow for high sensitivity and small sample volumes. It is contemplated that the use of microfluidic channels and nano-scale sensors 62a-k may miniaturize the sensor array and integrate thesensor array into a single cohesive unit (in place of a plurality of modular sensors 62a- k). The substrate and / or the sensors 62a-k may be formed from materials selected for their reactive properties at the nano-scale level. This may improve the accuracy and / or lifespan of the sensors 62a-k. The dimensions of the microfluidic channels may lead to a lower latency in sample transport and analysis. The fluid dynamics within the microfluidic channels may be optimized for quick replenishment of the water sample around the sensors 62a-k, thus enabling real-time data acquisition and fast response times. In some configurations, the microfluidic channels may be configured to reduce the length of the path the water travels from the point of entry' to the sensors 62a-k. This may minimize the time to results and allow for a more streamlined and compact design. Further, multiple samples may be processed simultaneously or substantially simultaneously at high frequencies thus enabling a substantially continuous, real-time data stream.

[0211] By utilizing nano-scale electrochemical and optical sensors 62a-k within the microfluidic channels, the system 10 may accurately analyze minute quantities of water, down to the nanoliter. Additionally, operating at the nano-scale level, the sensors 62a-k may detect changes in water chemistry with much greater sensitivity. This may allow for the detection of contaminants or changes in water quality7that might be missed by less sensitive, conventional sensors. Precision manufacturing of the microfluidic channels may ensure that a substantially constant volume of water is consistently sampled with each measurement thus eliminating discrepancies and enhancing repeatability7. It is contemplated that the combination of microfluidics and nano-sensing may boost efficiency as well as reduce reagent (chemical) use and waste.

[0212] In some embodiments, the monitoring module 16 may include an array of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) devices. The plurality7of MEMS devices may include both mechanical and electrical systems such that a sensor, fluid channels, sensor processing, communications, etc. may be included on a single device. Each MEMS device may individually sense a specific parameter, and multiple MEMS devices can work in parallel for redundancy and greater accuracy. The MEMS devices may be coated with a protective coating to shield against corrosive agents while maintaining sensor sensitivity. Further, the MEMS devices may be encapsulated such that moisture is repelled and condensation is prevented from affecting performance of the MEMS device.

[0213] Each or one or more of the MEMS devices in the array of MEMS devices may be configured to sense a particular parameter. For example, a MEMS device may include a MEMS sensor (e.g., a microscopic sensor) configured to detect pH levels. In some cases, such a sensor may use materials that react to hydrogen ions. It is contemplated that the various MEMS sensors may be fabricated using semiconductor processes such as, but not limited to, photolithography, etching, and deposition. The fabrication process may create structures that can interact with the specific parameter of interest. It is contemplated that microscopic sensors may be fabricated using silicon-based technology with a high degree of precision.

[0214] Generally, the MEMS sensors may convert a mechanical, thermal, optical, or chemical signal into an electrical signal. This transduction mechanism may depend on the parameter being measured. For example, to detect pressure, the MEMS device may utilize a diaphragm that deflects and for chemical detection, the MEMS device may involve a change in resistance or capacitance. The sensor may be calibrated to ensure that the electrical signal accurately represents the parameter being measured. This may include setting reference points and adjusting the sensor output to match know n values of the parameter.

[0215] The MEMS system may include micro-scale actuators that can adjust valves for water flow or release chemicals for water treatment in response to the sensor readings. Channels and chambers may direct the flow of water to the sensors 62a-k and actuators. The channels and chambers may be etched into silicon, made from polymers using lithography, and / or may be formed in one or more other suitable manners. The MEMS device may further include integrated circuits that process the data from the sensors and control the actuators. In some examples, the circuit may be an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit). For example, the circuit may include temperature compensation algorithms that ensure accurate readings across the expected temperature spectrum. The electrical signal generated by the MEMS sensor may require amplification and filtering. This may be done through the integrated circuit. Additionally, the MEMS device may include a communications module for communicating data to the system controller 12 or directly to the user. For example, the communications module may utilize the wireless communication protocols described above.

[0216] In some configurations, the MEMS devices may include silicon wafers with a gold-plated layer for conductivity. The electrical conductivity of the gold mayprovide a reliable and stable conductive path between the sensors and control circuitry. Further, gold is biocompatible, which means it does not produce a toxic response in living tissues. The use of a biocompatible material may allow portions of the MEMS devices to come into contact with skin or be used in close proximity to living organisms, as in the treated environment. Additionally, gold is chemically inert and does not oxidize. Gold may coat the sensors 62a-k such that the sensors 62a-k resist corrosion and maintain accuracy over time in the chemically active treated environment. It is contemplated that the gold-plated layer may provide a surface that can be easily modified with chemical or biological linkers. The chemical or biological linkers may be used to attach molecules or structures that interact with the target analytes in water or other liquid, aiding in their detection. In some embodiments, a gold layer may be used with sensors that rely on changes in electrical properties upon interaction with specific chemicals, such as in surface plasmon resonance sensors, which can detect changes in refractive index at the surface of the gold layer.

[0217] It is contemplated that a MEMS device system may include a small cartridge that is mechanically and electrically coupled with the controller 64. Water may flow through the cartridge, where the sensors 62a-k detect the water quality parameters in real-time and the actuators adjust the chemical mix or flow rate as needed. The control circuitry provided with the MEMS may manage the operation of the sensors 62a-k and actuators. Further, the control circuitry may communicate with the rest of the system 10 to inform broader decisions about water treatment and maintenance.

[0218] One or more monitoring modules 16 may be positioned to provide realtime data from different parts of the treated environment. For example, one or more monitoring modules 16 may be positioned near the inflow and / or outflow of water (at circulation system or at the dispensing module 14), within the mixing chamber 40, or at other critical points to ensure comprehensive monitoring.

[0219] In some configurations, test strips may be used to manually verify the sensor readings periodically to ensure the accuracy of the automated measurements of the monitoring module 16. For example, a user may dip a test strip into the treated environment and compare the results of the test strip with the automated measurements of the monitoring module 16. As described in more detail herein, the automated measurements may be transmitted to a control panel user interface or to anapplication (app) on a mobile device of the user. It is further contemplated that the test strips may be used to facilitate calibration of the monitoring module 16.

[0220] In other configurations, the monitoring module 16 may periodically perform automatic calibrations at predefined intervals using one or more small onboard reservoirs of calibration fluids. The calibration fluids may be provided having a known concentration. The calibration fluids may be chosen to represent a range of conditions the sensors 62a-k will measure in the pool / spa environment. For example, the calibration fluids may represent ideal and non-ideal chemical concentrations. The calibration fluids may be delivered to the sensor(s) 62a-k through microfluidic channels. The dispensing of the calibration fluids may be controlled by microvalves which may ensure precise volumes of fluid contact the sensors 62a-k. It is contemplated that the calibration may be automated and may be initiated based on a preset schedule (e.g., at predetermined time intervals), a predetermined number of measurement cycles, or upon detection of sensor drift. During calibration, the software of the system 10 (e.g., software at the monitoring module 16 or at the system controller 12) may direct the sensor 62a-k to measure the calibration fluids. Bycomparing these known values to the sensor’s readings, the system 10 can determine any necessary adjustments. If adjustments are necessary, the system may calculate and apply a correction factor to the sensor’s readings, thereby compensating for any deviations found during the calibration process. Each calibration event may be logged, providing a detailed record for maintenance, diagnostics, and compliance purposes. The calibration log may be downloaded from the system 10 or transmitted to a remote user device. After calibration, the monitoring module 16 may ensure all traces of calibration fluids are removed from the sensor area, for example, by initiating a rinse cycle, before normal measurement resumes. One illustrative calibration technique that may be used is a two-point calibration method for pH measurement which may utilize pH buffers at standard points (e.g., pH 4.0 and 7.0). This technique may offer a wide calibration range and helps adjust the sensor’s output to maintain accuracy across various treated environments. The auto-calibration mechanism may ensure that the sensors 62a-k remain precise without the need for manual calibration.

[0221] The system controller 12 may be configured to receive the sensor readings, monitor the chemical composition of the pool / spa. monitor additional factors that may impact water quality (e.g., usage, rain, or the like), issue commandsto dispense a controlled amount and type of chemical, issue commands to run calibrations, transmit data or information to the user, and / or may take other actions. As described above, the system controller 12 may be in communication with the dispensing module 14 and the monitoring module 16 and the various components thereof. For example, the system controller 12 may be in communication with the sensors 62a-k, actuators or relays that control pumps or valves for dispensing chemicals, actuators or relays that control circulation of the water of the treated environment, or the like.

[0222] In some configurations, the system controller 12 may include a power management circuit. The power management circuit may ensure stable operation and power flow to all of the electrical components from the power supply 74. The power supply 74 may supply power to the system controller 12, the dispensing module 14, the monitoring module 16, and / or other components of the system 10. The power supply 74 may be a rechargeable battery, solar power, line power, etc. In some examples, the system 10 may include a back-up battery that may be automatically activated in the case of power failure. Alternatively, or additionally, each module 12, 14, 16 may have its own unique power source.

[0223] In some embodiments, the system controller 12 may be configured to translate sensor readings transmitted from the sensors 62a-k (or the monitoring module 16) into digital data usable at the processor 28. For example, the system controller 12 may include a sensor interface positioned to minimize interference and ensure accurate readings. Output interfaces (e.g., for driving the actuators or relays for pumps and valves) may be located in close proximity' to their respective components to minimize the length of wires and reduce the potential for wiring errors.

[0224] The system controller 12 may be configured to constantly monitor water or other liquid quality parameters. By' tracing and analyzing trends, the system controller 12 may predict fluctuations and proactively adjust system settings. For example, the system controller 12 may monitor the data trends of pH. chlorine levels, bromine levels, salinity, ORP, temperature, TDS, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and / or the like. The diversity and precision of these data lines may ensure a comprehensive analysis of water quality. Further, the system controller 12 may be configured to monitor quantity and ty pes of chemicals dispensed at the dispensing module 14 and how the chemicals affect the water quality. For example, the system controller 12 may analyze the data, trace patterns, and predict changes in water or other liquidquality to adaptively control the dispensing of chemicals and adjust settings to maintain optimal water conditions. This real-time adaptability may help to maintain optimal conditions for the water or other liquid of the treated environment, thereby reducing manual testing and manual chemical balancing efforts. In some cases, the system controller 12 may consult cloud-based databases for the most up-to-date water care practices and make decisions accordingly. Further, the system controller 12 may be configured to dynamically allocate and analyze pathways of data collected from the sensors 62a-k. The system controller 12 may interpret this data to efficiently route commands to actuators controlling chemical dispensers, pumps, and valves to automatically adjust the flow of water or chemicals based on the data to optimize the water conditions in real-time.

[0225] As described above, the system controller 12 may use a hierarchical PCB design to separate out high-voltage, low-voltage, and data signal lines to reduce interference. The hierarchical structure may enhance the signal-to-noise ratio by segregating different types of signals and by allowing for dedicated processing pathways. This may minimize the potential for electronic interference which can introduce noise into the system. Further, each layer of high-voltage power distribution, low-voltage signals, and data transmission may be physically isolated and shielded. For example, high-voltage pathways may be located at the lowest stratum. High-voltage pathways may manage the high-power requirements for components like heaters and high-capacity pumps. The high-voltage pathways may be constructed with thicker copper traces to handle increased electrical loads and may be insulated with high-grade materials to withstand high voltages. Low-voltage control circuits may be positioned above the high-voltage pathways. The low- voltage control circuits may handle the low-voltage requirements for logic controllers, digital interfaces, and signal processing units. The traces for the low-voltage control circuits may be finer than the high-voltage pathways and include noise suppression features to protect sensitive components from voltage spikes and interference.Finally, the topmost tier or layer may be dedicated to data communication, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or proprietary wireless communication for sensor data transmission to the control unit. The topmost layer may use shielded traces and may be designed for impedance matching, ensuring that signal integrity is maintained for accurate and reliable data transfer. Each layer may be distinct yet integral to the system's function, with specific attention to the separation and insulation between high and low voltages,as well as clean signal transmission for effective communication between sensors, actuators, and controllers. The separation and insulation of the layers may reduce the possibility of high-voltage power disrupting the sensitive low-voltage and data signals. Additionally, the data pathways may be optimized for signal integrity with impedance-matched traces and differential signaling where appropriate.

[0226] In some configurations, the system controller 12 may use machine learning algorithms to identify patterns and correlations between the sensor readings, actual water conditions, and / or water treatments. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an illustrative machine learning algorithm 100 that may be entirely or at least partially stored and used at the system controller 12. Over time, as more data is accumulated, the algorithm 100 may refine its predictive accuracy, allowing the system controller 12 to account for factors such as, but not limited to, how pH levels fluctuate with temperature changes or how free chlorine levels are impacted by bather load and UV exposure. These machine-leaming-derived factors may enable the system controller 12 to predict and adjust to changes in water chemistry proactively, ensuring optimal water conditions are maintained with greater precision and less manual intervention.

[0227] To begin, the system controller 12 may preprocess data received from the sensors 62a-k, as shown at block 102. It is contemplated that in addition to the sensor data, the system controller 12 may be configured to retrieve data (e.g., from the internet) related to treatment applications, weather conditions, and / or other factors. During data preprocessing, raw data from the sensors may undergo preprocessing to remove noise and correct for any drift in sensor readings. Calibration data may be used to identify sensor drift and to account for degradation of sensors 62a-k over time. Next, the system controller 12 may extract key features from the data, as shown at block 104. For example, key features that influence water chemistry, such as usage patterns, environmental conditions (like weather and UV levels), treatments (e.g., timing of treatments, amount of treatments, types of treatments, etc.) and water turnover rates, may be extracted from the raw data. These features may be used to build a feature matrix that feeds into the machine learning model.

[0228] Next, the system controller 12 may evaluate different models for their prediction performance and a model selected, as shown at block 106. For example, models such as, but not limited to, regression trees, neural networks, or ensemble methods may be evaluated. Once a model is selected, the model may be trained, as shown at block 108. The model may be trained using historical data with continuousvalidation against known outcomes to prevent overfitting. Finally, the model may recognize and identify complex, non-linear relationships between the various parameters and the overall water quality, as shown at block 110. For example, the model may recognize the interdependencies between temperature and chlorine stability or how alkalinity buffers pH changes. The system controller 12 may continually learn and adapt even after initial deployment. This may ensure that the model stays relevant as the environment changes and as new types of inputs (such as novel pool coatings or treatments) are introduced.

[0229] Optionally, the system controller 12 may make real-time adjustments to the model and / or control methods. For example, as new7data comes into the system controller 12. the system controller 12 may make real-time adjustments to chemical dispensing (e.g., timing, type, amounts, etc.), flow' rates, and filtration cycles. This may occur dynamically in adaptation to changing conditions such as, but not limited to, increased usage or a sudden rainstorm. It is further contemplated that the system controller 12 may predict future states of water chemistry such that the system controller 12 may suggest (or issue control commands to perform) pro-active maintenance activities before parameters drift out of range. This may help prevent issues like scaling, corrosion, the growth of pathogens, or the like.

[0230] In some configurations, user inputs and feedback may be used to further refine the model. For example, if the user manually adjusts the pH. the user can input the adjustment at the user interface 32 of the system controller 12. The system controller 12 may then learn from the manual intervention. Further, the use of user feedback may allow7the system controller 12 to align with the preferences of different users or specific requirements of different treated environments.

[0231] In some configurations, the system controller 12 may ensure that all automatic or manual adjustments (if input into the system controller 12) comply with local regulations and safety standards. Alerts may be generated and transmitted to the user interface 32 (or to a remote user device) if sensor readings indicate conditions outside of legal or safe operating ranges thus allowing for immediate attention.

[0232] Figures 6 and 7 schematically depict view s of an illustrative configuration of a monitoring and dispensing system 200 for monitoring and maintaining water or other liquid quality in a treated environment. The system 200 may include features similar in form and function to those described with respect to the system 10 depicted in Figures 1-4. For the sake of brevity, like features will not be re-described in detail.

[0233] Figure 6 is a perspective view of an illustrative configuration of the monitoring and dispensing system 200 for monitoring and maintaining water or other liquid quality in a treated environment. The system 200 may include a housing 202 including a movable access panel 204. The access panel 204 may be configured to be moved between a closed configuration and an open configuration to allow access to the components housed within the housing 202. In some configurations, the access panel 204 may be hingedly secured to the housing 202. In other configurations, the access panel 204 may be removably secured to the housing 202.

[0234] Figure 7 is a front view of an illustrative configuration of the system 200 with the access panel 204 removed to illustrate the internal components of the system 200. Referring to both Figures 6 and 7, the system 200 may include a fluid inlet 206 configured to be fluidly coupled to a fluid inlet tube 208 and a fluid outlet 210 configured to be fluidly coupled to a fluid outlet tube 212. The fluid inlet tube 208 and the fluid outlet tube 212 may each fluidly couple the treated environment with the system 200. The system 200 may be mounted inline with the recirculation system of the treated environment. For example, the recirculation line 207 (Figure 6) of the treated environment may include a first branched connector (e.g., a "‘T” or ‘Y” connection) 209 upstream of the fluid inlet 206 to divert some of the recirculated water or other fluid to the system 200 while most of the recirculated water returns to the treated environment, as shown at arrow 205. The recirculation line 207 of the treated environment may include a second branched connector (e.g., a “T” or “Y” connection) 211 downstream of the fluid outlet 210 to reintroduce the diverted w ater or other fluid and any added chemicals back into the recirculation line 207, as shown at arrow 213.

[0235] The system 200 may generally include a control module or system controller 214, a dispensing module 216 (e.g., a chemical dispensing module), and a monitoring module 218 (e.g., a chemical monitoring module). In the illustrated example, the system controller 214, the dispensing module 216. and the monitoring module 218 are housed within a single housing 202. How ever, this is not required. In some configurations, one or more of the system controller 214, the dispensing module 216, and / or the monitoring module 218 may be in separate housings. For example, the monitoring module 218 may be in a first housing and fluidly connected to a second housing containing the system controller 214 and the dispensing module 216. Other configurations are also contemplated.

[0236] In some configurations, the system controller 214 may automatically detect and configure the dispensing module 216 and / or monitoring module 218. Further, the system controller 214 may be configured to configure itself based on the configuration of the dispensing module 216 and / or the monitoring module 218 in the system 200. The physical accessibility of the system 200 and / or the individual components / modules 214, 216, 218 thereof may be further enhanced by the software provided at the system controller 214. The software may allow for remote monitoring and / or control, thus ensuring that physical access is complemented by digital oversight.

[0237] The exterior components of the system 200 may be formed from any suitable material. For example, the exterior components of the system 200 may be formed from metals, polymers, alloys, and / or other suitable materials. In one example, the exterior components of the system 200, such as, but not limited to, the housing 202, and / or the individual modules 214, 216, 218 thereof may be formed from aerospace-grade aluminum. In some examples, each of the system controller 214, the dispensing module 216. and the monitoring module 218 may include one more components formed from aerospace-grade aluminum. Aerospace-grade aluminum may have a high strength to weight ratio which allows the system 200 and / or components thereof to withstand mechanical stress while remaining lightweight for ease of installation and handling. Further, aerospace-grade aluminum is corrosion-resistant which may ensure durability and longevity in the chemically rich and potentially corrosive environment of the treated environment. Aerospacegrade aluminum is also thermally conductive which may facilitate maintaining consistent temperatures within the system 200 and / or the individual modules 214, 216, 218 thereof. Consistent temperatures may contribute to efficient chemical mixing and reaction kinetics. The system 200 may include one or more coatings such as, but not limited to, anti-microbial coatings, as described with respect to Figure 1. Other illustrative coatings may include, but are not limited to, hydrophobic coatings (e.g., silicone-based nanocoating), oleophobic coatings, antimicrobial coatings, anticorrosion coatings (e g., zine oxide nanoparticles), self-cleaning coatings, ultraviolet (UV) protective coatings (e.g., zinc oxide or titanium dioxide), etc.

[0238] In some configurations, the system 200 and / or the individual modules 214, 216. 218 thereof may include one or more LED indicators thereon. The LED indicators may provide feedback regarding the status of each module 214, 216, 218.For example, the LED indicators may provide a visual indication if the module 214, 216, 218 is functioning correctly or if a module 214, 216, 218 requires attention. For example, the LED indicators may give an indication of the condition of the treated environment and display green for optimal levels, yellow for attention needed, and red for emergency. This is just one example. Other colors, configurations and alerts may be used, as desired. In another example, the dispensing module 216 may include one or more LED indicators 220a, 220b, 220c. 220d, 220e (collectively described herein with reference number 220) to provide a visual indication of a status of one or more chemicals. The indicators 220 may be visible through one or more transparent windows 222 in the access panel 204. The indicators 220 may display green when there are sufficient chemical supplies, yellow to indicate a supply is running low. and red when the chemical cartridge needs to be replaced or is empty. This is just one example.

[0239] The system controller 214 may be configured to receive data from the monitoring module 218, analyze the data, and make decisions based on the data. The system controller 214 may include a processor (e.g.. microprocessor, microcontroller, etc.) similar in form and function to the processor 28 and a memory similar in form and function to the memory730. For example, the system controller 214 may include control circuitry and logic configured to operate, control, command, etc. the various components of the dispensing module 216 and / or the monitoring module 218 and / or issue alerts or notifications. In some examples, the system controller 214 may be configured to issue control commands to dispense chemicals from the dispensing module 216 based on the sensor readings obtained at the monitoring module 218. Each of the chemical dispensing modules 216 and / or monitoring modules 218 may be operatively connected to the system controller 214 via a corresponding communications module or port similar in form and function to the communication paths described with respect to Figure 2. The system controller 214 may be in wired or wireless electronic communication with the dispensing module 216, the monitoring module 218, and / or a remote user device using any of the communication protocols described herein.

[0240] Generally, water or other fluid may enter the system 200 via the fluid inlet 206. The fluid may pass through the monitoring module 218 where one or more sensors 224a. 224b (collectively described herein with reference number 224) are in fluid communication with the water or other fluid. The water or other fluid may thenpass into the dispensing module 216 where one or more storage chambers or chemical dispensing cartridges 226a, 226b, 226c, 226d, 226e (collectively described herein with reference number 226) are in selective fluid communication with the flow path. The water or other fluid may then exit the system 200 via the fluid outlet 210 where it rejoins the recirculation line 207.

[0241] A first valve 228, such as, but not limited to a solenoid valve, may be positioned between the fluid inlet 206 and an analysis chamber 230. The first valve 228 may be selectively opened and / or closed in response to an electrical signal received, for example, from the system controller 214, to allow fluid flow into the analysis chamber 230 or prevent fluid flow into the analysis chamber 230. A second valve 232, such as. but not limited to, a check valve may be positioned downstream of the analysis chamber 230. The second valve 232 may allow for fluid flow in a direction towards the fluid outlet 210 while preventing backflow into the analysis chamber 230. It is contemplated that the second valve 232 may open at a predetermined pressure. For example, when the first valve 228 is closed, the pressure of the fluid within the analysis chamber 230 may not exceed the pressure required to open the second valve 232. However, when the first valve 228 is opened, the pressure within the analysis chamber 230 may exceed the pressure required to open the second valve 232 and fluid may exit the analysis chamber 230. Alternatively, or additionally, the second valve 232 may be closed in response to a signal received from the system controller 214. As will be described in more detail, one or more chemical analysis procedures may occur in a closed system. For example, the first valve 228 and the second valve 232 may be closed to allow a chemical analysis to be performed on a predetermined, stationary’ volume of fluid within the analysis chamber 230. Alternatively, the first valve 228 and / or the second valve 232 may be left opened or omitted such that fluid is always running from the fluid inlet 206 to the fluid outlet 210.

[0242] The first sensor 224a and the second sensor 224b may each have a first end that extends into the analysis chamber 230 such that a portion of each of the first sensor 224a and the second sensor 224b are in fluid communication with the fluid inside the analysis chamber 230. For example, the analysis chamber 230 may include a first port 234a and a second port 234b sized and shaped to receive the first ends of the sensor 224a and the second sensor 224b. respectively. The interface between the first sensor 224a and the first port 234a may be fluid-tight to prevent fluid fromleaking at the interface. Similarly, the interface between the second sensor 224b and the second port 234b may be fluid-tight to prevent fluid from leaking at the interface. It is contemplated that the first and second sensor ports 234a, 234b may include a selfsealing interface such that the sensors 224 may be removed for repair and / or replaced without fluid from the analysis chamber 230 leaking from the ports 234a, 234b.

[0243] The first and second sensors 224a. 224b may be electrically coupled to the system controller 214 via electrical connections 236a. 236b. The connections 236a, 236b may be configured to transmit data and / or power. In some configurations, the first sensor 224a may be a pH sensor, an ORP sensor, or a combination pH / ORP sensor. In some configurations, the second sensor 224b may be a temperature sensor. These are just examples. In one example, the first sensor 224a may be a combined pH sensor and a temperature sensor and the second sensor 224b may be an ORP sensor. The type of sensor(s) provided may vary' based on the ty pe of system or treated environment being monitored. Further, other suitable combinations of sensors may be provided. In yet other configurations, fewer than two or more than two sensors 224 may be provided.

[0244] The sensors 224 may be in continuous contact with the water or fluid from the treated environment. The sensors 224 may be configured to continuously measure the pH, ORP, and / or temperature of the treated environment. In some cases, the sensors 224 may be configured to obtain and / or transmit the readings to the system controller 214 at predefined time intervals. In some configurations, the sensors 224 may include a radiofrequency identification (RFID) tag, or other identification or tracking system, to monitor a usage time of the sensors 224. For example, the system controller 214 may be configured to prompt the user to replace the sensors 224 and / or perform routine maintenance thereon after a predetermined length of time to ensure the integrity' of the sensors 224.

[0245] The one or more chemical dispensing cartridges 226 may be disposed within the dispensing module 216 portion of the housing 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the sy stem 200 includes five chemical dispensing cartridges 226. However, the system 200 may include fewer than five or more than five chemical dispensing cartridges 226, as desired. In the illustrated embodiments, the dispensing module 216 may include a first chemical dispensing cartridge 226a housing a chemical to decrease a pH of the treatment environment (e.g.. muriatic acid, sodium bisulfate, or other pH decreaser), a second chemical dispensing cartridge 226bhousing a chemical to increase a pH of the treatment environment (e.g., sodium carbonate (soda ash), sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), or other pH increaser), a third chemical dispensing cartridge 226c housing a chemical (e.g., sodium bicarbonate or other alkalinity increaser) to adjust the alkalinity of the treatment environment, and a fourth chemical dispensing cartridge 226d and a fifth chemical dispensing cartridge 226e housing chlorine. The specific chemicals housed within the cartridges 226 and the volume thereof may vary based on the particular treatment environment. For example, bromine may replace chlorine in a bromine based treated environment. This is just one example. In some cases, one or more of the chemicals may be provided in liquid form that can be metered or dosed into the treated environment.

[0246] In other examples, one or more of the chemicals may be provided in solid form. When provided in solid form, it is contemplated that fluid may be introduced into the cartridges to dissolve the chemical prior to introducing said chemical into the treated environment. For example, water, or other fluid, may be pumped into the chemical dispensing cartridge 226 with the solid chemical to form a saturated fluid. The saturated fluid may then be used to treat the treated environment. However, this is not required.

[0247] Figure 9 illustrates a schematic view of an illustrative configuration of the system 200 including a bypass tube 256 configured to divert water, or other fluid, into the chemical dispensing cartridges 226. In some embodiments, the bypass tube 256 may include a valve 258 to selectively allow a flow of fluid into the chemical dispensing cartridges 226. However, this is not required. In some examples, the valve 258 may be omitted or may be a one-way valve (e.g., a check valve) and the flow of fluid into the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 may be controlled by a pressure differential or siphon to replace air or other fluid in the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 with water or other fluid. In some examples, as the metering pumps 242a-e dispense chemicals (described in more detail herein below), the pressure differential created may pull or siphon fluid from the bypass tube 256 (e.g.. optionally through one or more one-way valves preventing backflow through the bypass tube 256) into the chemical dispensing cartridge 256. Each of the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 may be individually connected to the bypass tube 256 via fluid inlet tube 260a-e. While not explicitly shown, the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 mayinclude one or more one-way vent valves to allow air or other gasses to exit the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 as fluid enters.

[0248] In some configurations, within the interior of the chemical dispensing cartridges 226, a tube may extend from the top of the cartridge 226 to the dispensing interface at or proximate the bottom of the chemical dispensing cartridge 226 where the water or liquid may interact with the solid chemical. This may facilitate allowing the system 200 to dispense the chemical as a saturated fluid while maintaining the solids within the interior of the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 at locations above a water or liquid interaction location intact. It is contemplated that this may help prevent the solids from clogging the chemical dispensing mechanism and ensure smooth water circulating through the cartridge 226.

[0249] When the chemicals are provided as a solid, the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 may be a volume configured to accommodate about 450 cubic centimeters of solids. However, the volume may be configured to accommodate more than 450 cubic centimeters of solids or less than 450 cubic centimeters of solids, as desired. Some or all of the chemicals may be provided as high-concentration solid chemicals in tablet or block form. However, some or all of the chemicals may be provided in powder form. It is contemplated that some chemicals may be provided in liquid form while others may be provided in solid form.

[0250] It is contemplated that the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 may be removable from the housing 202. For example, the chemicals may be supplied in disposable chemical dispensing cartridges 226 which are inserted into the housing 202 in a “plug and play” manner which allows the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 to be inserted and removed without specialized tools or technical assistance. For example, the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 may snap into place with a snap-fit coupling or may be secured with a twist-lock mechanism, or the like. In some configurations, the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 may include an interface which is self-sealing such that the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 may be removed without chemical leakage. Further, the dispensing module 216 may include an interface which opens the self-sealing interface of the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 upon insertion into the dispensing module 216. Alternatively, or additionally, the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 may be refillable. For example, the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 may be removed from the housing 202 for refilling or may be refilled w hile remaining within the housing 202.

[0251] The chemical dispensing cartridges 226 may each include an RFID tag or other identification system. In some examples, the RFID tag or other identification system may be configured to communicate with the system controller 214 and allow the system controller 214 to identify a type of chemical in a chemical dispensing cartridge 226 at a particular location within the dispensing module 216 and / or verify the correct chemical dispensing cartridge 226 is positioned in the correct location within the dispensing module 216. If an incorrect chemical dispensing cartridge 226 is positioned within the dispensing module 216 or in the wrong or unexpected location, the system controller 214 may be configured to issue an error alert (at the system 200 and / or at a remote user device) and prevent said chemical from being dispensed into the treated environment. Alternatively, if an incorrect chemical dispensing cartridge 226 is positioned within the dispensing module 216 or in the wrong or unexpected location, the system controller 214 may automatically update its operations to account for the new chemical dispensing cartridge 226 and / or the new location of the chemical dispensing cartridge 226.

[0252] The RFID tags or other identification systems may be used for enhanced tracking and system management. RFID tags or other identification systems may allow the controller 214 to automatically detect when a new chemical dispensing cartridge 226 has been inserted. This may allow the controller 214 to monitor chemical levels (e.g.. the controller 214 knows the starting volume and tracks the volume as chemicals are dispensed) as well as track the remaining life of the chemical dispensing cartridges 226. The controller 214 may provide real-time feedback to the user regarding when chemical dispensing cartridges 226 need to be replaced. Further, the controller 214 may collect, analyze, store, display, and / or transmit data regarding chemical usage patterns. The usage patterns may help the controller 214 predict when certain chemicals are most likely to run out based on prior usage and / or to determine the effectiveness or efficiency of chemical usage or usage patterns.

[0253] A first chemical supply line 240a, 240b. 240c, 240d, 240e (collectively described herein with reference number 240) may fluidly couple the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 with a metering pump 242a, 242b, 242c, 242d, 242e (collectively described herein with reference number 242), respectively. A second chemical supply line 244a, 244b, 244c, 244d, 244e (collectively described herein with reference number 244) may fluidly couple the metering pumps 242. respectively, with a fluid line 238 extending between the second valve 232 (e.g., a check valve) and thefluid outlet 210. In some embodiments, the second chemical supply line 244a in fluid communication with the first chemical dispensing cartridge 226a (e.g., a pH decreasing chemical supply cartridge or other suitable cartridge) may be fluidly coupled to the analysis chamber 230 to facilitate alkalinity testing, as will be described in more detail herein.

[0254] The metering pumps 242 may be self-priming and configured to supply precise amounts of chemical to the fluid line 238 in response to a determined need. In one example, the metering pumps 242 may be positive pressure or peristatic pumps where the amount of chemical dispensed is directly correlated to a number of turns of the pump. Each metering pump 242 may be driven by its own motor (not explicitly shown). The motor may be communicatively coupled with the system controller 214 such that the motor may be operated in response to the measured parameters of the treated environment. For example, the first sensor 224a may be configured to measure the pH of the treated environment. If the pH is below a predetermined threshold, the system controller 214 may send a control command to the motor corresponding to metering pump 242b fluidly coupled to the pH increasing chemical within the second chemical dispensing cartridge 226b to dispense a predetermined amount of pH decreasing chemical through the first chemical supply line 240b, the metering pump 242b, and the second chemical supply line 244b and into the fluid line 238 where it subsequently exits the system 200 and flows into the treated environment. The metering pumps 242 may be configured to dispense chemicals that are provided in liquid form or in solid form. When the chemicals are provided in solid form the metering pumps 242 may dispense a saturated fluid.

[0255] In some embodiments, the system 200 may include a flow sensor 248 disposed inline with the fluid line 238. The flow sensor 248 may be in wired electronic and / or communicative communication with the system controller 214 via one or more electrical connections 250. Alternatively, the flow sensor 248 may be in wireless communication with the system controller 214. The flow sensor 248 may be configured to determine if fluid is flowing through the fluid line 238. If fluid is not flowing through the fluid line 238, the system controller 214 may be configured to prevent dispensing of chemicals from the chemical dispensing cartridges 226. For example, chemicals may be dispensed from the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 only when fluid is flowing through the fluid line 238 at or above a desired threshold level or flow rate.

[0256] In some cases, the system 10, 200 may not include (e.g., may omit) a probe or sensor configured to directly measure alkalinity. For example, alkalinity may be traditionally measured using color strips or in other manners. However, it may be desirable to measure the alkalinity of the treated environment prior to or while adjusting the pH and / or chlorine (or other chemical). The system 200 may be configured to perform an automated titration. Alkalinity may be generally calculated using Equation 1 :where V is the volume of acid or other suitable pH decreaser chemical required to reduce pH to a predetermined value, M is the molarity of the acid or other suitable pH decreaser chemical, C is a multiplication constant, and Vs is the sample volume. In other examples, a known volume of acid or other pH decereaser chemical may be added to the sample and the alkalinity may then be derived based on the measured pH drop. In some cases, experimental data may be used to derive the alkalinity' using a known volume of acid or other suitable pH decreaser chemical.

[0257] In operation, the system 10, 200 may be configured to receive one or more parameter values (e.g., sensed values) related to a parameter of water received from a treated environment via the fluid inlet 206 (e.g., an input) and determine an alkalinity level of the water in the treated environment based on the received one or more parameter values. In some examples, the one or more parameter values may be values of pH of water in the analysis chamber 230, an amount of pH decreaser chemical that has been added to the water in the analysis chamber 230, a volume of water in the analysis chamber (e.g., a known volume of the analysis chamber or other suitable value), and / or values of other suitable parameters.

[0258] Based on the determined or calculated alkalinity' level of the water in the treated environment, the system controller 214 may be configured to dispense one or more chemicals to adjust the alkalinity level of the water in the treated environment. For example, w hen the determined or calculated alkalinity level of the water in the treated environment has reached or gone beyond a threshold level (e.g.. below a first threshold level), the system controller 214 may cause the third chemical dispensing cartridge 226c to dispense an alkalinity increaser chemical to increase the alkalinity level of the w ater in the treated environment. In the example, w hen the determined or calculated alkalinity level of the water in the treated environment has reached or gonebeyond a threshold level (e.g., above the first threshold level or a second threshold level different than the first threshold level), the system controller 214 may cause the first chemical dispensing cartridge 226a to dispense a pH decreaser chemical to lower the alkalinity level of the water in the treated environment. When a first threshold (e.g., a low threshold) and a second threshold (a high threshold) are compared to the determined or calculated alkalinity, the system controller 214 may be configured to take no action when the determined or calculated alkalinity level is between the first threshold and the second threshold. Other suitable techniques may be utilized for determining alkalinity and treating water in view of the determined alkalinity.

[0259] Figure 8A is a schematic flow chart of one illustrative protocol or method 300 for determining alkalinity of the treated environment and. optionally, adjusting an alkalinity of the treated environment. For example, at predetermined time intervals, at time intervals based on sensed or calculated data, and / or upon a user request, the system 200 may determine the alkalinity of the treated environment. In some cases, the predetermined time interval may be every 24 hours. However, the predetermined time interval may be less than 24 hours or more than 24 hours. The time interval may be adjusted by the user at a remote user device.

[0260] To perform the alkalinity measurement, the system controller 214 may close the first valve 228 (e.g., solenoid valve or other suitable valve) and the second valve 232 to contain a volume of water or fluid within the analysis chamber 230, as shown at block 302. The flow sensor 248 may confirm the closure of the valves 228, 232 by determining there is no flow through the fluid line 238, as shown at block 304. The initial pH of the fluid within the analysis chamber 230 may be measured, as shown at block 306. The system controller 214 may then activate the metering pump 242a associated with the first chemical dispensing cartridge 226a (e.g., a pH lowering (e.g., pH decreaser) chemical dispensing chamber or other suitable cartridge) to dispense a known volume of pH lowering chemical (e.g., hydrochloric acid) into the analysis chamber 230, as shown at block 308. The first sensor 224a may measure the pH of the fluid within the analysis chamber 230 after introduction of the pH lowering chemical into the analysis chamber 230, as shown at block 310. In some examples, the sensor 224a may be configured to wait a predetermined length of time after the pH lowering chemical is added to the analysis chamber 230 before transmitting a pH reading to allow the pH lowering chemical to fully mix with the fluid in the analysis chamber 230. The system controller 214 may then determine a change in the pH ofthe fluid in the analysis chamber 230, as shown at block 312. As the volume of the analysis chamber 230 is fixed, the system controller 214 may calculate the alkalinity of the treated water within the analysis chamber 230 based on the change in pH of the fluid within the analysis chamber 230, as shown at block 314. A calculated value of the alkalinity in the treated water may be determined and / or a determination of whether alkalinity is within one or more ranges (e g., a no treatment range, a first treatment range, a second treatment range, and / or other suitable ranges) may be made. Upon completion of the alkalinity test, the water or fluid within the analysis chamber 230 may be released into the treated water system and water may flow through the input 206 and output 210 by opening one or both of the valves 228, 232, as shown at block 316.

[0261] As the volume of water within the analysis chamber 230 is relatively small compared to the overall volume of water in the treated environment, the water or fluid from the alkalinity test may be safely released into the treated environment with no further processing. For example, the analysis chamber 230 may have a volume of approximately 1 liter (L) while an average hot tub may have a volume in the range of 1135 L to about 2460 L depending the maximum occupancy of said hot tub. The system controller 214 may be configured to increase, decrease, or take no action to adj ust the alkalinity of the treated environment using the pH lowering chemical or the alkalinity increaser, as necessary, based upon the calculated alkalinity, as shown at block 318. It is contemplated that adjusting the alkalinity may be performed before or after opening the valves 228, 232.

[0262] Figure 8B is a schematic flow chart of another illustrative protocol or method 350 for determining alkalinity of the treated environment and, optionally, adjusting an alkalinity of the treated environment. For example, at predetermined time intervals, at time intervals determined based on sensed or calculated data, and / or upon a user request, the system 200 may determine the alkalinity7of the treated environment. In some cases, the predetermined time interval may be every 24 hours. However, the predetermined time interval may be less than 24 hours or more than 24 hours. The time interval may be adjusted by the user at a remote user device.

[0263] To perform the alkalinity measurement, the system controller 214 may close the first valve 228 (e.g., solenoid valve or other suitable valve) and the second valve 232 to contain a volume of water or fluid within the analysis chamber 230, as shown at block 352. The flow sensor 248 may confirm the closure of the valves 228,232 by determining there is no flow through the fluid line 238, as shown at block 354. The initial pH of the fluid within the analysis chamber 230 may be measured, as shown at block 356. The system controller 214 may then activate the metering pump 242a associated with the first chemical dispensing cartridge 226a (e.g., a pH lowering chemical dispensing chamber or other suitable cartridge) to gradually dispense measured or known amounts (e.g., volumes) of pH lowering chemical (e.g., hydrochloric acid) into the analysis chamber 230 until a target pH is reached, as shown at block 358. In some examples, the measured amount pH lowering chemical may be dispensed incrementally with the first sensor 224a measuring the pH between each dosage. In some cases, the sensor 224a may be configured to wait a predetermined length of time after the pH lowering chemical is added to the analysis chamber 230 before transmitting a pH reading to allow the pH lowering chemical to fully mix with the fluid in the analysis chamber 230. When the transmitted pH reading is at the target pH, the system controller 214 may be configured to record the volume of pH lowering chemical dispensed to arrive at the target pH, as shown at block 360. The system controller 214 may then calculate the alkalinity of the treated water, as shown at block 362. As the volume of the analysis chamber 230 is fixed, the system controller 214 may calculate the alkalinity of the treated water within the analysis chamber 230 based on the change in pH of the fluid within the analysis chamber 230 and the volume of pH lowering chemical dispensed. A calculated value of the alkalinity in the treated water may be determined and / or a determination of whether alkalinity is within one or more ranges (e.g., a no treatment range, a first treatment range, a second treatment range, and / or other suitable ranges) may be made.

[0264] Upon completion of the alkalinity test, the water or fluid within the analysis chamber 230 may be released into the treated water system by opening the valves 228, 232, as shown at block 634. As the volume of water within the analysis chamber 230 is relatively small compared to the overall volume of water in the treated environment, the water or fluid from the alkalinity test may be safely released into the treated environment with no further processing. For example, the analysis chamber 230 may have a volume of approximately 1 liter (L) w hile an average hot tub may have a volume in the range of 1135 L to about 2460 L depending the maximum occupancy of said hot tub. The system controller 214 may be configured to increase, decrease, or take no action to adjust the alkalinity of the treated environment using the pH lowering chemical or the alkalinity increaser, as necessary, based upon thecalculated alkalinity, as shown at block 366. It is contemplated that adjusting the alkalinity may be performed before or after opening the valves 228. 232.

[0265] Returning to Figure 7, in some configurations, the system 200 may include a mounting bracket 252. The mounting bracket 252 may be fixedly or removably secured to an exterior of the housing 202. The mounting bracket 252 may include a plurality of apertures 254 for receiving a fixation mechanism (such as, but not limited to, screws, bolts, or the like) to secure the system 200 relative to the treated environment. In some cases, the system 200 may be mounted to a frame of the treated environment. However, the system 200 may be mounted at other locations, as desired. While Figure 7 illustrates the mounting bracket 252 as extending along a top and left side of the housing 202, the mounting bracket 252 may be positioned in additional and / or alternative configurations. For example, the mounting bracket 252 may extend along a bottom and right side of the housing 202. This may allow a same bracket 252 to be used to install the housing 202 in systems having different infrastructure. In yet other configurations, the mounting bracket 252 may extend along only a single side. It is further contemplated that two or more separate mounting brackets 252 may be provided. For example, two or more mounting brackets may be positioned along intersecting sides or opposing sides, as desired. Other suitable configurations of the mounting bracket(s) 252 are contemplated.

[0266] Figure 10 illustrates a schematic view of an illustrative configuration of the system 200 configured for monitoring and maintaining water quality in a treated environment containing salt water (e.g., a salt water hot tub or spa, a salt water pool, etc.) As depicted in Figure 10, a cover may be removed from the housing 202, but other suitable configurations are contemplated in which the housing 202 does not include a cover or does not include an adjustable or removable cover. Although not depicted in Figure 10, one or more chemical supply line 244 may be configured to output chemicals into the analysis chamber 230. Features of the system 200 previously described will not be re-described here in detail.

[0267] As depicted in Figure 10, for example, the system 200 may include a chlorine cell or chlorine generator 262 configured to produce chlorine for treating the water of the treated environment. In some examples, the chlorine generator 262 may be part of the chemical dispensing module 216, but other suitable configurations are contemplated.

[0268] The system 200 may include a manifold configured to provide water from the treated environment to the analysis chamber 230 and to the chlorine generator 262 in parallel. In some examples, the manifold may be omitted and the water from the treated environment may be provided to a container (e.g., the analysis chamber 230) in fluid communication with the sensors 224 and the chlorine generator 262 for the option to simultaneously monitor and treat (e.g.. with a chlorine treatment) the water from the treated environment. In some examples, the manifold may be omitted and the analysis chamber 230 and the chlorine generator 262 may be in series such that the water from the treated environment may be provided to one of the analysis chamber 230 and the chlorine generator 262 and then the water from the treated environment may be provided to the other of the analysis chamber 230 and the chlorine generator 262 that did not initially receive the water from the treated environment for monitoring and treatment of the water in series.

[0269] In operation, an electrical field may be applied to the water passing through the chlorine generator 262 via one or more electrodes of the chlorine generator 262. The electric field applied to the water passing through the chlorine generator 262 may convert salt (NaCl) dissolved in the water to a desired amount of chlorine via electrolysis using the electrodes of the chlorine generator 262. The produced chlorine from the chlorine generator 262, along with the water passing through the chlorine generator 262, may be provided to the fluid line 238 via the chlorine generator port 264 for potential additional treatment using chemicals from one of the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 and / or for outputting to the treated environment.

[0270] When the chlorine generator 262 is utilized and included in the system 200, dispensing cartridge(s) containing chlorine may be omitted, such that the dispensing module 216 may include the first dispensing cartridge 226a containing a pH decreaser chemical, the second dispensing cartridge 226b containing a pH increaser chemical, the third dispensing cartridge 226c containing an alkalinity increaser chemical, and / or one or more other cartridges containing suitable chemicals. One or more of the dispensing cartridges 226 may have a volume that is different than one or more other dispensing cartridges 226. In some examples and as depicted in FIG. 10, the first dispensing cartridge 226a may have a greater volume than the second dispensing cartridge 226b and the third dispensing cartridge 226c due to an expectation that more of the chemical in the first dispensing cartridge 226a (e.g., a pHdecreaser chemical) may be utilized to the treat water in the treated environment than chemicals in either of the second dispensing cartridge 226b or the third dispensing cartridge 226c.

[0271] In some examples, the chlorine generator 262 may be coupled with the system controller 214 via one or more electrical connections 266. The system controller 214 may be configured to control the current and / or voltage applied to electrodes of the chlorine generator 262 via the one or more electrical connections 266. An amount of chlorine produced by the chlorine generator 262 may be dependent on one or more factors or parameters including, but not limited to, a concentration of salt in the water from the treated environment, a current and / or voltage provided to the electrodes of the chlorine generator 262, a length of time the cunent and / or voltage is provided to the electrodes of the chlorine generator, and / or one or more other suitable parameters. As such, the system controller 214 and / or a user may adjust the salt level in the water of the treated environment, adjust the cunent and / or voltage applied to the electrodes in the chlorine generator 262. and / or adjust a length of time the cunent and / or the voltage are applied to the electrodes in the chlorine generator to produce a desired amount of chlorine. In some examples, an amount of chlorine to be produced may be based, at least in part, on values of one or more sensed and / or calculated parameters.

[0272] To maintain the chlorine generator 262 over time, the chlorine generator 262 may be configured to reverse polarity across the electrodes. In one example, for every7three hours of use of the chlorine generator 262 operating with current flowing in a first direction, the current through the chlorine generator 262 may be reversed for three hours to facilitate cleaning and / or maintaining the chlorine generator 262 over time (e.g., to reduce scaling on electrodes and / or other components of the chlorine generator 262). In some examples, the system controller 214 may track use of the chlorine generator 262 over time and automatically reverse polarity across the electrodes of the chlorine generator 262 according to a predetermined protocol and / or based on an analysis of system parameters. In some examples, the system controller 214 may reverse polarity of the chlorine generator 262 based on one or more user selections.

[0273] The monitoring module 218 may include one or more sensors 224 configured to sense one or more parameters of a sample of water from the treated environment that is located in the analysis chamber 230. For example, as discussedherein, the monitoring module 218 may include a first sensor 224a configured as a combined pH sensor and temperature sensor and a second sensor 224b configured as an ORP sensor. When the treated environment contains salt water, the monitoring module 218 may include a third sensor 224c configured to sense a salinity of the water in the treated environment (e.g., as represented by water in the analysis chamber 230).

[0274] The salinity sensor, when included in the system 200. may be configured to sense an amount of salt in the water of the treated environment. In some examples, the salinity sensor may sense an amount of salt in the w ater of the treated environment and send that value to the system controller 214. If the amount of salt in the water is above or below a desired range of salt in the water of the treated environment, the system controller 214 may be configured to urge a user to add salt (e.g., the amount of salt in the water is too low) to the water of the treated environment or add water (e.g., when the amount of salt in the water is too high) to the water of the treated environment to dilute the salt. Alternatively or additionally, the salinity sensor maybe configured to sense when the salt in the water is out of the desired range and send a signal to the system controller 214 to indicate the amount of salt is above or below the desired range. In one example, a desired range of an amount of salt in the w ater of the treated environment may be about 1.500 parts per million (ppm) to about 2,000 ppm, which may be sufficient to allow the users of the treated environment to be comfortable, while providing enough salt to produce a desired amount of chlorine to treat the w ater of the treated environment. Other suitable desired ranges of an amount of salt in the water of the treated environment are contemplated.

[0275] An output of the salinity sensor, when included in the system 200, may be utilized by the system controller 214 for one or more purposes in addition to or as an alternative to determining whether the amount of salt in the w ater of the treated environment is within a desired range or needs to be adjusted up or down. In some examples, the salinity sensor may be used by the system controller 214 and / or other computing device of the system 200 to determine an efficiency of chlorine production with the chlorine generator 262. In some examples, the system controller 214 and / or other suitable computing device may use the output of the salinity sensor indicating an amount of salt in the water of the treated environment, a sensed temperature of the water of the treated environment (e.g.. from the first sensor 224a configured as combined pH and temperature sensor or from one or more other suitable temperaturesensors), and operational or performance data of the chlorine generator 262 to determine an efficiency of chlorine production with the chlorine generator 262.

[0276] A value of efficiency of chlorine production may be indicative of scale building up in the chlorine generator 262 that may reduce an efficiency of the chlorine generator 262. In one example, a low value of efficiency of chlorine production maybe indicative of scale build-up in the chlorine generator 262 and that the chlorine generator 262 requires cleaning and / or that the chlorine generator 262 may require replacing. Cleaning the chlorine generator 262 and maintaining low scale build-up may facilitate optimizing chlorine production and prolonging a life of the chlorine generator 262.

[0277] Figure 11 illustrates a schematic view of an illustrative configuration of the system 200 configured for monitoring and maintaining water quality in a treated environment containing salt water (e.g., a salt water hot tub or spa, a salt water pool, etc.) As depicted in Figure 11, a cover may be removed from the housing 202, but other suitable configurations are contemplated in which the housing 202 does not include a cover or does not include an adjustable or removable cover. Although not depicted in Figure 11, one or more chemical supply lines 244 may be configured to output chemicals into the analysis chamber 230. Features of the system 200 previously described will not be re-described here in detail.

[0278] The configuration of the system 200 depicted in Figure 11 may be similarly configured to the configuration of the system 200 depicted in and described with respect to Figure 10, and may include an illustrative configuration of the chlorine generator 262, the first sensor 224a configured as a combined pH and temperature sensor, the second sensor 224b configured as an ORP sensor, the third sensor 224c configured as a salinity sensor, the first chemical dispensing cartridge 226a including and configured to dispense a pH decreaser, the second chemical dispensing cartridge 226b including and configured to dispense a pH increaser, the third chemical dispensing cartridge 226c including and configured to dispense the alkalinity increaser, and / or other suitable components similar to other configurations of the system 200 described herein. The configuration of the system 200 depicted in Figure 11 may differ from the system 200 depicted in Figure 10 by at least including a configuration of the analysis chamber 230 that is configured to receive at least water from the fluid inlet 206, the first sensor 224a, the second sensor 224b, the third sensor 224c, and the chlorine generator 262. Utilizing a single compartment to senseparameters of water from the treated environment and produce chlorine may reduce space utilized within the housing 202. Further, each of the chemical dispensing cartridges 226 may have equal volumes, as depicted for example in Figure 11, but other suitable configurations are contemplated.

[0279] Electrode(s) 268 of the chlorine generator 262 may have any suitable configuration. For example, the electrodes 268 may be elongate electrodes, the electrodes 268 may be arranged in rows or columns, the electrodes 268 may be ring electrodes, and / or the electrode(s) 268 of the chlorine generator 262 may have one or more other suitable configurations. In one example and as depicted in Figure 11, the electrodes 268 of the chlorine generator 262 may be elongated and may be in columns spaced from one another. In some examples, the chlorine generator 262 may include three electrodes, but the chlorine generator 262 may include fewer than or more than three electrodes 268. In operation, the electrodes 268 may be energized and perform electrolysis on the salt in the salt water from the treated environment to produce chlorine to treat the water of the treated environment.

[0280] Figure 12 depicts a schematic flow chart of an illustrative method 400 for monitoring the pH and ORP in the water of or from the treated environment. The system controller 214 may be configured to perform the method 400 continuously, at time intervals based on sensed or calculated data, and / or at predefined time intervals.

[0281] The method 400 may begin at a start, as shown at block 402, followed by a time delay, as shown at block 404. The time delay 404 may be a predetermined length of time selected to allow water within the analysis chamber 230 to be at a steady state or representative of the water within the treated environment. The time delay may be for a zero amount of time or omitted in some examples.

[0282] Next, the controller 214 may be configured to receive and evaluate one or more values of or related to the pH of the water in the analysis chamber 230, as shown at block 406. In some examples, the controller 214 may be configured to receive the values of or related to the pH of the water in the analysis chamber 230 from the first sensor 224a, which may be configured to sense a pH of the water in the analysis chamber 230 (e.g., which may be representative of pH of the water in the treated environment). As the pH level increases, the ORP value may decrease so pH may be measured and adjusted before ORP. If the pH is within a predetermined acceptable range (e.g.. on a pH scale), the controller 214 may be configured to evaluate the ORP of the fluid, as shown at block 416, and described in more detail below. If the pH islow or if the pH is high, the controller 214 may activate the appropriate metering pump 242a, 242b to dispense a pH increaser or pH decreaser into the treated system, as shown at block 412. The controller 214 may delay further measurements, as shown at block 410. The delay may be a predetermined length of time selected to allow the dispensed pH increaser or decreaser to mix with the treated system. The delay of further measurements may be omitted in some examples.

[0283] Next, the controller 214 may be configured to receive and evaluate a pH of the water, as shown at block 412. If the pH is too low or too high, the controller 214 may be configured to repeat steps 408, 410, 412 until the pH is within the designated range. Once the pH is within the designated or predetermined acceptable range, the controller 214 may return to the start, as shown at block 414.

[0284] Upon returning to the start 402, the controller 214 may be configured to wait a predetermined length of time, 404, prior to rechecking the pH of the treated fluid, block 406. If the pH is within a predetermined acceptable range, the controller 214 may be configured to evaluate the ORP of the fluid, as shown at block 416. If the ORP is within a predetermined acceptable range, the controller 214 is configured to return to the start 402 and repeatedly check the pH (block 406) and / or ORP (block 416) and dispense chemicals as needed. If the ORP is low', the controller 214 may be configured to activate the appropriate metering pump 242 to adjust the ORP. For example, if the ORP is low, the controller may be configured to activate appropriate metering pump 242d, 242e to add chlorine to increase free chlorine and increase the ORP, as shown at block 418. Additionally or alternatively, when ORP is low, the controller may cause a chlorine generator to generate more chlorine and increase the ORP. The controller 214 may delay further measurements, as shown at block 420. The delay may be a predetermined length of time selected to allow the dispensed chlorine to mix with the treated system. The delay of further measurements may be omitted in some examples.

[0285] Next, the controller 214 may be configured to receive and evaluate a pH of the fluid, as shown at block 422. If the pH of the treated fluid is too high or too low7, the controller 214 may be configured to repeat steps 408, 410, 412 to adjust the pH until the pH is in the acceptable range. Once the pH is in the acceptable range, the controller 214 may be configured repeat steps 404, 406, and 416. If the ORP is at an acceptable level at this point, the controller 214 may return to the start of the method 400. If the ORP is low', steps 418, 420, and 422 may be repeated until the ORP hasbeen increased and the pH is in the acceptable range. After checking the pH, block 424, the controller 214 may be configured to receive and evaluate the ORP of the treated fluid, as shown at block 424. It is contemplated that steps 416, 418, 420, 422 until the ORP has been increased to an acceptable level and the pH is in the acceptable range. The controller 214 may return to the start, as shown at block 426.

[0286] The methods discussed herein may be implemented via one or more instructions saved or stored in transitory or non-transitory computer readable medium. The instructions may be executable by one or more processors or computing devices reading the computer readable medium in which the instructions are stored to cause the processors and / or computing devices to perform one or more operations in accordance with the instructions.

[0287] Figure 13 depicts a schematic flow chart of an illustrative method 500 of monitoring and treating water of or from a treated environment. The system controller 12, 214 and / or other computing devices of the system 10, 200 may execute the method 500 and may be configured to perform the method 500 continuously, at time intervals based on sensed or calculated data, and / or at predefined time intervals. Although the method 500 is described as being executed with the system 10, 200, it is contemplated that the method 500 may be executed with other suitable systems configured to monitor and / or treat water of a treated environment.

[0288] The method 500 may be a closed loop control process for monitoring and treating water of the treated environment, but other configurations are contemplated in which an open loop process may be utilized to monitor and treat fluid of the treated environment. The closed loop control process of the method 500 may be configured to execute automatically in real time as sensed values from one or more sensors are obtained and chemicals are dispensed to treat the water of the treated environment. In addition to or as an alternative to dispensing chemicals to treat the water, other suitable treatments including, but not limited to, ultraviolet (UV) light treatments may be part of the system 200 and may be applied to the water of the treated environment as part of the method 500.

[0289] The method 500 may include calculating 502 an index value. The index value may be based on parameter values for one or more parameters. The parameter values may be sensed values and / or calculated values based on sensed values and / or user input. In some examples, the parameter values may be collected and / or calculated (e.g., received or determined at the system controller 12, 214 and / or othercomputing device) over time, at one or more discrete times, averaged over time, and / or collected or calculated at one or more other suitable times.

[0290] Any suitable parameters that may affect maintaining a desired water quality in a treated environment may be considered in the index. The parameters may be control variables, independent variables (e.g., variables that are not dependent on the control variables), dependent variables (e.g., variables that are dependent on the control variables), and / or other suitable types of variables. Example suitable parameters that may affect maintaining a desired water quality in a treated environment include, but are not limited to, pH of the water of the treated environment, temperature of the water of the treated environment, salt concentration of the water of the treated environment, alkalinity of the water of the treated environment, ORP of the water of the treated environment, chlorine use or production for treating the water of the treated environment, a reverse polarity condition of a chlorine generator (e.g., when a chlorine generator is utilized in the system 10, 200), cunent ambient weather conditions, usage of the treated environment, and / or other suitable parameters that may affect maintaining the desired water quality.

[0291] The index may be on any suitable predetermined scale. Example suitable scales include, but are not limited to, a scale of 0-1, 0-10, 0-100, 60-100, and / or other suitable scales.

[0292] To calculate the index value, one or more of the parameter values may be weighted and then the weighted parameter values may be summed or otherwise combined (e.g., mathematically combined) to calculate the index value, but the index value may be calculated without weight one or more of the parameter values of the index. In some examples, the index value may be calculated or determined by summing parameter values, averaging index values over time, averaging parameter values over time, and / or combining other suitable statistics of or related to parameter values.

[0293] When weights are used to calculate the index value, the weight may be associated with a parameter and a value of the weight may be determined based on any suitable factor including, but not limited to, an importance of the parameter to user comfort, an importance of the parameter to the operation of the system 10, 200, any importance of the parameter to maintaining water quality, and / or other suitable factors. In one example, if there are five parameters considered in the index, a first parameter may have a weight of 30%, a second parameter may have a weight of 20%,a third parameter may have a weight of 15%, a fourth parameter may have a weight of 25%, and a fifth parameter may have a weight of 10%, where the weights may add up to 100% or other suitable value associated with the scale of the index. Other suitable weighting of parameters is contemplated.

[0294] The parameter values of each parameter used in calculating the index may be on a predetermined scale, but this is not required. In some examples, the weight applied to the parameter may determine the scale for the parameter values associated with the parameter. In one example, where the first parameter may have a weight of 30%, the scale of the parameter value associated with the first parameter may be 0-30. In such an example, all possible values for the parameter values may be scaled to the weighted scale or the parameter values within a first range may receive a value of 30 on the scale, parameter values within a second range may receive a value of 25 on the scale, parameter values within a third range may receive a value of 20 on the scale, and so on. Other suitable predetermined scales for parameter values are contemplated.

[0295] The parameter values, the parameters, the times at which parameter values are sensed or sampled, weights applied to the parameter values, and / or suitable factors associated with the calculating the index value may be maintained and / or adjusted over time. In some examples, one or more learning algorithms (e.g., as discussed herein or otherwise) may collect data associated with the system controller 12, 214 and / or the treated environment and automatically make one or more adjustments to factors associated with calculating the index value. Example data collected may include, but is not limited to, operating parameters of the system controller 12. 214, amounts of chemicals dispensed into the water of the treated environment, length of use of sensors, utilization of one or more treatments to treat the water of the treated environment, frequency of treatments, frequency of use of the treated environment, weather conditions or patterns, lengths of use of the treated environment, user feedback, and / or other suitable data.

[0296] Once the index value has been calculated, the index value may be compared to one or more threshold values and a determination 504 may be made as to whether the index value has reached or gone beyond the one or more thresholds. In some examples, the threshold values of the index may be set points for the index, endpoints on a desired range of values for the index, limits for values of the index, and / or other suitable values to be compared to the calculated or determined index.When the index value has not gone beyond one or more thresholds, the method 500 may return to calculating 502 the index value and re-run the method 500.

[0297] When the index value reaches or goes beyond the one or more thresholds, further analysis and / or actions may be taken. In some examples, the system 10, 200 may be configured to follow a treatment protocol when the index value has been reached or gone beyond a threshold and automatically apply one or more treatments to the water of the treated environment and / or take other actions according to a treatment protocol. In some examples, once it has been determined that the index value has exceeded a threshold value of the one or more threshold values, the parameter values (e.g., a sensed value or calculated value) of each parameter or one or more selected parameters based on the threshold that has been reached may be compared 506 to one or more parameter threshold values associated with the respective parameter. For example, a parameter value for a pH of the water of or from the treated environment may be compared to one or more pH threshold values when the index value has reached or gone beyond a first threshold value. In some examples, the parameter threshold values may be set points for the parameter, endpoints on a desired range of values for the parameter, limits for values of the parameter, and / or other suitable values to be compared to the sensed or calculated values.

[0298] Once the parameter values are compared to respective parameter threshold values, the water from or of the treated environment may be treated 508 to adjust the parameter values of parameters having parameter values determined to have reached or gone beyond one or more respective parameter threshold values. The water may be treated according to one or more predetermined treatment protocols associated with the parameter having a parameter value that is to be adjusted and / or associated with the threshold which the index value has reached. For example, if a pH of the water has been identified as being high by reaching or going beyond a pH is high threshold value, the system 10, 200 may be configured to apply a predetermined amount of pH decreaser to the water of the treated environment to reduce the pH of the water to a desired level. Other suitable examples of adjusting parameter values through applying treatments to water of the treated environment are contemplated.

[0299] Once any treatments are applied to water of the treated environment to adjust parameter values of identified parameters, the method 500 may return to calculating 502 the index value. Additionally or alternatively, the system 10, 200 maybe calculating 502 the index value as the system is effecting other steps of the method 500.

[0300] In one example implementation of the method 500, the index value may be on a scale of 0-100 and may be calculated using parameter values of five parameters. The one or more threshold values to which the index value is compared may include three threshold values of 90, 80, and 70. When the index value is above 90, the system 10, 200 may determine no treatment action is needed and provide an indication to a user that the water quality is good. When the index value is below 90 and above 80, the system 10, 200 may provide an indication to a user that the water quality is still good and may compare parameter values associated with a first parameter and a second parameter to respective parameter threshold values. One or more treatments may be provided to the water of the treated environment based on the comparison of the respective parameter values to the parameter threshold values to ensure the parameter values for the first and second parameters are at a desired level or range going forward. When the index value is below 80 and above 70. the system 10. 200 may provide an indication to a user that the water quality has been reduced and may compare parameter values associated with the first parameter, the second parameter, and a third parameter to respective parameter threshold values. One or more treatments may be provided to the water of the treated environment based on the comparison of the respective parameter values to the parameter threshold values to ensure the parameter values for the first, second, and third parameters are at a desired level or range going forward. When the index value is below 70, the system 10, 200 may provide an indication to a user that the water quality is low and may compare parameter values associated with the first parameter, the second parameter, the third parameter, a fourth parameter, and a fifth parameter to respective parameter threshold values. One or more treatments may be provided to the water of the treated environment based on the comparison of the respective parameter values to the parameter threshold values to ensure the parameter values for the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth parameters are at a desired level or range going forward.

[0301] In some examples, the system 10, 200 may operate the method 500 without any user action and thus, maintain a desired water quality without requiring regular user interactions. As such, the only interactions a user may have with the system 10, 200 may be to replace components parts (e.g., chemicals, chemicaldispensing cartridges, treatment components, sensors, a chlorine generator, etc.) at extended intervals (e.g., on a yearly basis and / or at other suitable times).

[0302] It should be understood that this disclosure is, in many respects, only illustrative. Changes may be made in details, particularly in matters of shape, size, and arrangement of steps without exceeding the scope of the invention. This may include, to the extent that it is appropriate, the use of any of the features of one example embodiment being used in other embodiments. The invention's scope is, of course, defined in the language in which the appended claims are expressed.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A system for monitoring and treating water of a treated environment, the system comprising: a system controller; a monitoring module configured to receive water from the treated environment, the monitoring module comprising one or more sensors; and a dispensing module comprising one or more chemical dispensing cartridges and one or more pumps for dispensing chemicals from the one or more chemical dispensing cartridges, wherein the system controller is configured to receive, from the monitoring module, one or more parameter values related to a parameter of the water received from the treated environment and send a control signal based on the one or more parameter values to the dispensing module to treat the water from the treated environment.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the dispensing module includes a first chemical dispensing cartridge containing a pH decreaser chemical, a second chemical dispensing cartridge containing a pH increaser chemical, and a third chemical dispensing cartridge containing an alkalinity increaser chemical, and wherein the control signal sent to the dispensing module to treat the water from the treated environment is configured to cause a pump of the one or more pumps to dispense a chemical from one of the one or more chemical dispensing cartridges.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein one or more of the pH decreaser chemical, the pH increaser chemical, and the alkalinity increaser chemical are in solid form and one or more of the first chemical dispensing cartridge, the second chemical dispensing cartridge, and the third chemical dispensing cartridge are configured to receive water from the treated environment.

4. The system of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the one or more pumps comprise one pump for each of the one or more chemical dispensing cartridges.

5. The system of any one of claims 1-4, further comprising: a chlorine generator configured to receive the water from the treated environment, wherein the water from the treated environment is salt water and the chlorine generator is configured to produce chlorine from the salt by applying electrolysis to the water from the treated environment.

6. The system of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the one or more sensors comprise two or more sensors selected from the group of a pH sensor, a temperature sensor, an oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) sensor, and a salinity sensor configured to sense a salt concentration in the water from the treated environment.

7. The system of any one of claims 1-6, further comprising: a housing configured to enclose the system controller, the monitoring module, and the dispensing module; and an outlet configured to return the water received from the treated environment to the treated environment.

8. The system of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the system controller is configured to: receive one or more parameter values for each of a plurality of parameters; determine an index value based on the one or more parameter values for each of the plurality of parameters; compare the index value to one or more index threshold values; when the index value goes beyond an index threshold value of the one or more index threshold values, compare one or more parameter values for one or more parameters to one or more parameter threshold values; and send the control signal based on the comparison of the one or more parameter values to the one or more parameter threshold values.

9. The system of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the system controller is configured to: determine an alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment based on the one or parameter values received from the monitoring module; andcause the dispensing module to dispense one or more chemicals to adjust the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment when the alkalinity level determined has reached or gone beyond one or more alkalinity threshold values.

10. A method, the method comprising: sensing, with a monitoring module, one or more parameter values related to a parameter of water received at a system for monitoring and treating water of a treated environment, wherein the system is configured to be in fluid communication with a recirculation line of the treated environment and comprises the monitoring module, a system controller, and a dispensing module; and sending a control signal from the system controller to the dispensing module to treat water of the treated environment at the system, wherein the control signal is based on the one or more parameter values.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: receiving, at the system controller, one or more parameter values for each of a plurality of parameters; determining, at the system controller, an index value based on the one or more parameter values for each of the plurality of parameters: comparing, at the system controller, the index value to one or more index threshold values; and when the index value goes beyond an index threshold value of the one or more index threshold values, sending the control signal based on the one or more parameter values to the dispensing module.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: when the index value goes beyond the index threshold value, comparing a parameter value of a parameter of the plurality of parameters to one or more parameter threshold values, and wherein the control signal sent to the dispensing module is based on the comparison of the parameter value of the parameter to the one or more parameter threshold values.

13. The method of claim 11 or claim 12, wherein comparing the index value to one or more index threshold values comprises comparing the index value to a plurality of index threshold values, and the method further comprises: when the index value reaches or goes beyond a first index threshold value of the plurality of index threshold values, comparing parameter values for a first set of parameters to one or more parameter threshold values associated with parameters of the first set of parameters; and when the index value reaches or goes beyond a second index threshold value of the plurality of index threshold values, comparing parameter values for a second set of parameters to one or more parameter threshold values associated with parameters of the second set of parameters.

14. The method of any one of claims 10-13, further comprising: determining, at the system controller, an alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment based on the one or parameter values sensed with the monitoring module; and dispensing, at the dispensing module, one or more chemicals to adjust the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment when the alkalinity level determined has reached or gone beyond one or more alkalinity threshold values.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein dispensing the one or more chemicals to adjust the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment comprises: dispensing, from the dispensing module, a pH decreaser chemical when the alkalinity level has reached or exceeded a first alkalinity’ threshold value to decrease the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment, dispensing, from the dispensing module, an alkalinity’ increaser chemical when the alkalinity level has reached or exceeded a second alkalinity threshold value to increase the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment, and taking no action with the dispensing module to change the alkalinity level of the water in the treated environment when the alkalinity level has not reach or gone beyond the first alkalinity threshold value or the second alkalinity threshold value.

16. The method of claim 14 or claim 15, wherein determining the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment based on the one or more parameter values sensed with the monitoring module comprises: acquiring a water sample from the water of the treated environment in an analysis chamber of the system; sensing, with the monitoring module, an initial value related to a pH of the water sample, wherein the one or more parameter values sensed includes the initial value related to the pH of the water sample; dispensing, with the dispensing module, one or more know n amounts of a pH decreaser chemical into the water sample until a target pH of the water sample is achieved; determining, with the system controller, a total amount of pH decreaser chemical dispensed into the water sample; and determining, with the system controller, the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment based on the initial value related to the pH of the water sample, the target pH of the water sample, and the total amount of the pH decreaser chemical dispensed into the water sample.

17. The method of any one of claims 14-16, wherein determining the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment based on the one or more parameter values sensed with the monitoring module comprises: acquiring a w ater sample from the w ater of the treated environment in an analysis chamber of the system; sensing, with the monitoring module, an initial value related to a pH of the water sample, wherein the one or more parameter values sensed includes the initial value related to the pH of the water sample; dispensing, with the dispensing module, a predetermined amount of pH decreaser chemical into the water sample; sensing, with the monitoring module, a further value related to the pH of the w ater sample after the predetermined amount of pH decreaser chemical has been dispensed into the water sample, wherein the one or more parameter values sensed includes the further value related to the pH of the water sample, and determining, with the system controller, the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment based on the initial value related to the pH of the w ater sample.-SO-the predetermined amount of pH decreaser chemical, and the further value related to the pH of the water sample.

18. A non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon, instructions that when executed by a computing device of a system for monitoring and treating water of a treated environment cause the computing device to perform operations comprising: outputting a control signal to a monitoring module to cause the monitoring module to sense one or more parameter values related to a parameter of water received at the system, wherein the system is configured to be in fluid communication with a recirculation line of the treated environment and comprises the monitoring module, a system controller comprising the computing device, and a dispensing module; and outputting a control signal to the dispensing module to cause the dispensing module to treat water of the treated environment at the system, wherein the control signal is based on the one or more parameter values.

19. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 18, wherein the operations further comprise: receiving one or more parameter values for each of a plurality of parameters; determining an index value based on the one or more parameter values for each of the plurality7of parameters; comparing the index value to one or more index threshold values; when the index value goes beyond an index threshold value of the one or more index threshold values, comparing a parameter value of a parameter of the plurality7of parameters to one or more parameter threshold values, and wherein the control signal sent to the dispensing module is based on the comparison of the parameter value of the one or more parameters to the one or more parameter threshold values.

20. The non-transitory7computer readable medium of claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the operations further comprise: determining an alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment based on the one or parameter values sensed with the monitoring module, andwherein the control signal is configured to cause the dispensing module to dispense one or more chemicals to adjust the alkalinity level of the water of the treated environment when the alkalinity level determined has reached or gone beyond one or more alkalinity threshold values.

Images