Interchangeable Jet Module Design for Spa Cleaning and Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular spa systems face challenges with uneven water and air flow due to vortex behavior in conduits, leading to discomfort and requiring time-consuming adjustments, and are prone to residual buildup that complicates cleaning and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A removable jet module with a manifold featuring an array of air and water chambers and a jet mounting surface, allowing for flexible jet positioning and easy access to water and air supplies, reducing vortex issues and simplifying maintenance by providing close proximity of air and water supplies to any jet position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If supply lines or tubing are located behind the plate to deliver water and air to jets, then the system achieves a modular construction, but the supply lines become susceptible to residual buildup from stagnant water and chemicals, requiring cleaning and eventual replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the supply lines from behind the plate and relocates them to the front, making them accessible for cleaning and replacement. The module includes supply line receptacles on the front surface that allow external connection of supply lines, eliminating the problem of residual buildup in concealed tubing.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design enables self-service maintenance by allowing users to easily remove and replace the entire module including supply lines. The module can be detached and reattached without complex tools, facilitating regular cleaning and replacement to prevent residual buildup issues.
2Ease of manufacture
If supply lines are interwoven behind the plate, then the modular system can be constructed, but the tubing requires time to separate during cleanup, repair, and replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the supply lines from the concealed rear position and brings them to the front of the module where they can be easily accessed. The supply line receptacles are positioned on the front surface, allowing quick connection and disconnection without time-consuming separation of interwoven tubing.
Solution Approach 2:
The module is segmented into distinct components including the jet assembly, supply line receptacles, and mounting elements. This segmentation allows the supply lines to be independently accessed and replaced without affecting other parts of the system, reducing maintenance time.
3Ease of manufacture
If jets are mounted on a plate with supply lines behind it, then the system achieves modularity, but cleaning and maintenance become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the supply lines from the concealed position behind the plate and relocates them to the front surface through supply line receptacles. This extraction makes all cleaning and maintenance activities accessible from the front, eliminating the difficulty of working with concealed components.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular module design enables users to perform cleaning and maintenance themselves without requiring disassembly of complex internal structures. The module can be removed and reattached easily, and supply lines are externally accessible for routine cleaning and replacement.
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 configuration ensures smooth, laminar water flow, reduces the need for complex adjustments, and facilitates easier cleaning and maintenance by allowing for interchangeable jets and modules with minimal disruption to spa operation.
Implementation Method 1
This configuration ensures smooth, laminar water flow, reduces the need for complex adjustments
Implementation Method 2
A venturi drain is provided to remove water from the air chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A bathing system with a molded shell has hollows in the shell. A module with internal water and air chambers is installed in each hollow with jets mounted upon the front jet plate of the module. The module is of simple construction that is mounted in a hollow and is removable and interchangeable for easy upgrading and repair of the bathing system.