Junction Box Controller for Centralized Pool Accent Light Control
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pool and spa lighting systems face challenges with the size and weight of on-board controllers, limiting their installation locations, and the cost of central controllers that control multiple systems, making it difficult to achieve centralized control of accent lights without additional equipment.
Innovation Solution
The system includes accent lights with a junction box controller that can be installed in conduits or pipes, featuring a microcontroller and associated circuitry for remote control, allowing for flexible placement and central control of lights, along with an underwater luminaire and method for determining manufacturer-specific LED control signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If on-board controllers are integrated into accent lights, then centralized control capability is achieved, but the size and weight of the lights increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two parts: a simple light engine in the accent light and a sophisticated junction box controller that handles all control logic. This separation allows the light to remain small and lightweight while still achieving centralized control through the junction box.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is extracted from the accent light and relocated to the junction box. This extraction removes the weight and complexity from the light itself while maintaining the ability to centrally control multiple lights through the junction box infrastructure.
2Extent of automation
If on-board controllers are integrated into accent lights, then centralized control capability is achieved, but the size of the lights increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two parts: a simple light engine in the accent light and a sophisticated junction box controller that handles all control logic. This separation allows the light to remain small and lightweight while still achieving centralized control through the junction box.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is extracted from the accent light and relocated to the junction box. This extraction removes the weight and complexity from the light itself while maintaining the ability to centrally control multiple lights through the junction box infrastructure.
3Extent of automation
If existing central controllers are used to control pool/spa lights, then centralized control is achieved, but the cost of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The junction box controller is designed to control multiple different types of pool and spa equipment (lights, filters, pumps, heaters, chlorinators) through a single device. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate controllers for each device, reducing overall system cost while maintaining centralized control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses existing infrastructure (junction boxes and wiring) to provide control functionality, rather than requiring additional dedicated control equipment. The junction box leverages existing electrical infrastructure to deliver centralized control at minimal additional cost.
4Adaptability or versatility
If accent lights are made smaller for installation in various locations, then installation flexibility is improved, but the ability to include on-board controllers is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two parts: a simple light engine in the accent light and a sophisticated junction box controller that handles all control logic. This separation allows the light to remain small and lightweight while still achieving centralized control through the junction box.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is extracted from the accent light and relocated to the junction box. This extraction removes the weight and complexity from the light itself while maintaining the ability to centrally control multiple lights through the junction box infrastructure.
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
Enables the installation of accent lights in various locations, including small spaces, and provides centralized control of lights without the need for expensive central controllers, enhancing flexibility and cost-effectiveness in pool and spa environments.
Implementation Method 1
a heatsink having a front surface and a back surface
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of light emitting diodes
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for an accent lighting system is provided. The system includes a plurality of underwater luminaires each having a plurality of light emitting diodes, and a junction box controller housing a plurality of electrical components for generating electrical signals for controlling the plurality of underwater luminaries. The junction box controller can be mounted to an electrical conduit and a plurality of cables can connect the plurality of underwater luminaires with the junction box controller. An underwater luminaire can include a heat sink and a flexible circuit board having a plurality of light emitting diodes mounted on the heat sink. The flexible circuit board transfers heat from the light emitting diodes to the heat sink. The underwater luminaire can also include a wiring harness for connecting the underwater luminaire to a cable.