Aquatic Facility Universal Controller for Centralized Subsystem Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aquatic facility control systems are complex, requiring substantial operator experience and training, and lack universality, making them inefficient and difficult to scale for varying aquatic facilities, with limited ability to centralize monitoring and control across diverse subsystems.
Innovation Solution
The SENTRY CONTROLS™ Aquatic System Universal Controller, a BACnet-based system that simplifies and centralizes monitoring and control, providing expandability, versatility, and remote access with a user-friendly interface, allowing for scalable and efficient operation of aquatic facilities by integrating various subsystems into a single comprehensive system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional aquatic facility control systems are used, then monitoring and control functions can be performed, but the system complexity increases and requires substantial operator experience and training
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal controller that can monitor and control multiple different subsystems (chemical treatment, heating, filtration, lighting, etc.) through a single integrated device. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would traditionally require multiple specialized control systems into one unified platform, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive monitoring and control capabilities across all aquatic facility subsystems
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional aquatic facility control systems are used, then specific facility operations can be controlled, but the systems lack universality and are difficult to scale for varying aquatic facilities
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed with universal communication protocols and configurable parameters that allow it to adapt to different facility types and sizes. The system can be scaled by adding or removing monitored parameters and controlled devices without requiring fundamental system changes, making it suitable for everything from small residential pools to large commercial aquatic centers
Solution Approach 2:
The control system incorporates dynamic configuration capabilities where monitoring and control parameters can be adjusted in real-time based on facility-specific requirements. The system allows operators to dynamically add, remove, or modify monitored parameters and controlled devices, enabling the same hardware platform to serve multiple different facility configurations
3Productivity
If centralized monitoring and control is implemented across diverse subsystems, then operational efficiency improves, but the system requires extensive operator training
Solution Approach 1:
The controller automatically performs many functions that would traditionally require operator intervention and expertise. It autonomously monitors subsystem parameters, detects anomalies, and executes control actions based on pre-configured logic and real-time sensor data. This self-service capability reduces the need for operators to have extensive specialized training while maintaining high operational efficiency through automated decision-making and response
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus, systems, and methods to monitor and control operation of an aquatic facility comprising a water basin, a water supply subsystem, and other subsystems. A simplified, centralized, scalable control subsystem comprises a base controller including with inputs and outputs and a human-machine interface. Sensors are operatively connected to the base controller and adapted to directly or indirectly sense one of a pre-selected set of parameters related to the operation of the aquatic facility. Actuators are operatively connected to the base controller and adapted to directly or indirectly actuate one of a pre-selected set of operations of the aquatic facility. The base controller is programmable relative to setpoints or other operational criteria of the aquatic facility; and actuation of at least a base subset of the actuators and graphical representation of the facility and the water supply, and the at least one subsystem, and the pre-selected operations of the aquatic system.