Pool Cleaner Light Module for Flow-Powered Status Indication
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Operators face challenges in determining if automatic swimming pool cleaners are operating correctly or efficiently, often only realizing mechanical malfunctions or insufficient suction/pressure after substantial debris has settled, due to lack of real-time monitoring capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A light module for swimming pool cleaners that includes a paddle wheel, generator, and LEDs, capable of generating power from fluid flow and illuminating the area, with adjustable lighting modes to indicate operational status, including color changes and flashing patterns based on fluid pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the pool cleaner operates automatically without manual monitoring, then productivity is improved, but the operator cannot detect operational issues in real-time leading to loss of information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a visual feedback system using LEDs that provide real-time information about the pool cleaner's operational status. The LEDs display different colors (e.g., green for normal operation, red for issues) and patterns (steady, flashing) to communicate suction pressure status and operational problems to the operator, enabling remote monitoring without manual intervention.
2Loss of information
If the operator monitors the pool cleaner continuously, then loss of information is reduced, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by proactively displaying operational status information through LEDs before the operator would need to check manually. The visual indicators continuously show suction pressure status and operational problems, so the operator only needs to glance at the indicators rather than continuously monitor or manually inspect the cleaner.
3Loss of information
If manual lighting is installed around the pool to enable night monitoring, then loss of information is reduced, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-service by employing LEDs that are powered directly from the pool cleaner's own operational power source. The LEDs automatically illuminate based on the cleaner's operation status without requiring external lighting infrastructure, batteries, or additional power supplies, thus reducing device complexity and energy requirements.
4Use of energy by stationary object
If the pool cleaner operates at night without additional lighting, then energy consumption is reduced, but the operator cannot detect operational issues leading to loss of information
Solution Approach 1:
The visual feedback system using LEDs provides real-time operational status information that is visible in low-light conditions. The LEDs display different colors and patterns to communicate suction pressure status and operational problems, enabling the operator to monitor the cleaner at night without requiring additional external lighting 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
Provides real-time visual feedback on the pool cleaner's operation, allowing operators to quickly identify issues such as insufficient suction or pressure, ensuring timely intervention and maintaining pool cleanliness.
Implementation Method 1
The paddle wheel is located adjacent to the flow directing portion and rotates in response to fluid flow through the fluid path
Implementation Method 2
The generator is coupled to the paddle wheel and generates power through rotation of the paddle wheel
Implementation Method 3
The LED is coupled to the generator and receives the generated power from the generator to illuminate an area adjacent to the swimming pool cleaner
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention provide a light module for a pool cleaner. The light module can include a housing, a paddle wheel, a generator, and at least one light emitting diode (LED). The housing can be removably coupled to the pool cleaner and can include a flow directing portion positioned in a fluid path of the pool cleaner. The paddle wheel can be located adjacent to the flow directing portion and can rotate in response to fluid flow through the fluid path. The generator can be coupled to the paddle wheel and can generate power through rotation of the paddle wheel. The LED can be coupled to the generator and can receive the generated power from the generator to illuminate an area adjacent to the pool cleaner.