IoT Pool Equipment Control Without New Conduits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pool and spa equipment control systems require costly hardware installations and lack effective connectivity, leading to inefficient monitoring and maintenance, often necessitating professional intervention.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system with 'Internet-of-Things' functionality through network communication and local control subsystems, controllers, hubs, translators, and modules that provide network connectivity and remote monitoring without the need for new conduits, allowing smart switches and sensors to integrate with existing equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hard-wired communication and electrical conduits are used for pool equipment control, then reliable connectivity and control are achieved, but installation costs and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical hard-wired electrical conduits with wireless communication technology. The pool equipment controller communicates with the remote device wirelessly, eliminating the need for physical electrical conduits and reducing installation complexity while maintaining reliable connectivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary (wireless signal transmission) between the pool equipment controller and the remote device, serving as a mediator that enables communication without direct physical connection, thereby reducing installation requirements
2Ease of operation
If electronic pool controllers with network connectivity are installed, then remote monitoring and control capabilities are improved, but hardware costs and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the pool equipment controller multi-functional by enabling it to perform both local control functions and wireless communication functions. The existing controller is enhanced with wireless capability, allowing it to serve dual purposes without requiring separate dedicated remote control hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the pool equipment controller to autonomously provide remote monitoring and control capabilities through wireless communication. The controller itself performs the remote communication function without requiring additional external hardware, making the system self-sufficient
3Loss of information
If sensors and data collection means are installed at equipment pad, then monitoring capability is improved, but installation cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing pool equipment multi-functional by enabling them to collect and transmit operational data wirelessly. The pump, heater, and other equipment continue their primary functions while also serving as data collection points, eliminating the need for separate sensor installations
4Reliability
If professional pool servicers are employed for monitoring and maintenance, then equipment reliability is maintained, but operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the pool equipment controller continuously monitors equipment status and communicates this information to the user's remote device. This real-time feedback enables users to self-monitor equipment conditions, reducing the need for professional servicer visits while maintaining equipment reliability
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods for providing network connectivity and remote monitoring, optimization, and control of pool/spa equipment are provided. "Internet-of-Things" (IoT) functionality is provided for pool and spa equipment in a flexible and cost-effective manner. Network connectivity and remote monitoring/control of pool and spa equipment is provided by various components such as a network communication and local control subsystem installed in pool/spa equipment, and other components. Also disclosed are various control processes ("pool logic") which can be embodied as software code installed in any of the various embodiments of the present disclosure.