Modular Battery Packs for Longer Automatic Pool Cleaner Runtime
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Automatic swimming pool cleaners (APCs) for large pools often run out of charge before completing a cleaning cycle, requiring interruptions for recharging, as they typically rely on a single on-board battery pack.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating multiple battery packs that can be adjusted based on the pool size and cleaning operation, allowing for modular power supply and optional concurrent or sequential power draw from these packs to extend operation without recharging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a single battery pack is used in APCs, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but the duration of action is insufficient for large pools requiring interruptions for recharging
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system is segmented into multiple independent battery packs that can be used individually or in combination. Each battery pack functions as an independent energy unit, allowing the system to be scaled by adding or removing packs based on pool size and cleaning requirements, thereby extending operating duration without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple battery packs are designed with universal compatibility to the APC platform, allowing the same battery pack design to serve different pool sizes and cleaning operations. The system can universally adapt to various configurations (single pack for small pools, multiple packs for large pools) without requiring different battery designs
2Duration of action of moving object
If multiple battery packs are incorporated to extend power supply, then the duration of action is improved, but the weight of the moving object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The total battery capacity is segmented into multiple separate packs distributed throughout the APC rather than consolidated into one large heavy pack. This segmentation allows for more efficient weight distribution across the device, improving balance and maneuverability while achieving the same total energy capacity needed for extended operation
Solution Approach 2:
The battery system is designed to be dynamic and configurable, allowing users to adjust the number of active battery packs based on the specific cleaning task. For smaller pools or lighter cleaning operations, fewer battery packs are activated, reducing the effective weight carried during operation while still providing sufficient power for the required duration
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 APCs to complete cleaning cycles without interruption by providing adjustable and extended power supply, tailored to the size of the pool and type of operation, reducing the need for external recharging during operations.
Implementation Method 1
Incorporating multiple battery packs that can be adjusted based on the pool size and cleaning operation, allowing for modular power supply and optional concurrent or sequential power draw from these packs to extend operation without recharging
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic swimming pool cleaner for a swimming pool or spa may include a housing and a plurality of battery packs supported on and/or within the housing. The automatic swimming pool cleaner may be operable with a single battery pack or with plurality of battery packs. The onboard power supply of the automatic swimming pool cleaner may be controlled without the automatic swimming pool cleaner needing recharging.