Integrated Pool Lighting Control With Transformer-Coupled PLC Signals

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional pool and spa lighting systems have limited color and mode options due to communication bandwidth constraints and the inability to individually control each light, and using power line communications (PLC) with low voltage transformers can reduce signal strength.

Innovation Solution

An integrated control device with a transformer and controller in a single housing transforms high voltage to low voltage power and uses PLC signals to control lighting devices directly, enabling seamless color transitions and group assignments without additional wiring.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If power line communications (PLC) are used with low voltage transformers to add communication capabilities, then communication functionality is improved, but signal strength is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication capabilityVSAvoidsignal strength

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

A high voltage isolation transformer is introduced as an intermediary device that couples the high voltage PLC signal to the low voltage lighting circuit. The transformer acts as a mediator that transfers the PLC communication signal from the high voltage line through magnetic coupling to the low voltage side without requiring direct electrical connection, thereby maintaining signal strength while enabling communication capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system is segmented into high voltage communication domain and low voltage lighting domain, with the isolation transformer serving as the boundary. This segmentation allows PLC signals to be transmitted on the high voltage line while the low voltage lighting circuit remains electrically isolated, preventing signal degradation and ensuring safe operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Device complexity

If traditional communication methods are used with bandwidth constraints, then system complexity is reduced, but control precision is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem complexityVSAvoidcontrol precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical switching methods with PLC-based electronic control. Instead of using physical switches or relays to control lighting modes, the system uses high-frequency PLC signals transmitted over the power line to provide precise digital control of individual lights, enabling smooth transitions and accurate color control without mechanical components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach allows for enhanced control of pool lighting systems with smooth color transitions, real-time monitoring, and easy group assignments, while avoiding light flicker and reducing installation complexity.

Implementation Method 1

The transformer includes a high voltage input configurable to receive first power from an external source, and a low voltage output configurable to transport second power from the transformer

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12446125B2Lighting system control using integrated control device especially useful for lights of swimming pools and spas

Publication Date: 2025.10.14 ZODIAC POOL SYSTEMS LLC

AI summary

Methods and systems described herein provide control of a lighting system, such as a pool lighting system. The pool lighting system includes an integrated control device that includes both a transformer and a controller. Lighting devices are powered by power from the transformer using power lines and controlled using power line communication (PLC) signals sent over the same power lines.