Pool Cleaning Robot Temperature Sensing via Segmentation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring swimming pool water temperature are inadequate as they provide only surface readings, failing to accurately represent temperatures at different depths, and do not account for temperature stratification, which affects water chemistry and energy efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A self-propelled Pool Cleaning Robot (PCR) equipped with an onboard integrated temperature sensor that measures underwater temperatures without direct contact, transmitting data to a central PCB for processing and storage, allowing for remote temperature sensing and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a surface thermometer is used to measure pool water temperature, then the measurement is simple and direct, but it fails to capture temperature stratification at different depths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the water column into multiple depth segments (surface, mid-depth, bottom) and places temperature sensors at each segment. This segmentation allows the system to capture temperature stratification at different depths rather than relying on a single surface measurement, directly resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional surface temperature measurement to three-dimensional vertical temperature profiling by deploying sensors at multiple depths. This dimensional expansion enables comprehensive temperature monitoring throughout the water column, achieving precise measurement of temperature stratification without requiring overly complex equipment.
2Measurement precision
If multiple temperature sensors at different depths are deployed, then temperature stratification can be accurately measured, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-functional robotic system that performs both pool cleaning and temperature monitoring. The robot's primary cleaning function provides the platform for deploying temperature sensors, eliminating the need for separate dedicated temperature measurement equipment. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision through multi-depth sensing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines temperature sensing functionality with the pool cleaning robot platform. By merging the cleaning mechanism with temperature monitoring capabilities, the system achieves accurate vertical temperature profiling without requiring separate complex measurement infrastructure. The cleaning robot's movement through the water column naturally positions sensors at various depths.
3Measurement precision
If direct contact temperature sensors are used, then the measurement is accurate, but the sensor is exposed to water chemistry and degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a protective intermediary barrier (sealed housing or coating) between the temperature sensor and the pool water. This intermediary protects the sensor from direct exposure to water chemistry, chlorine, and other degrading factors while still allowing accurate thermal conduction for temperature measurement. The sensor remains shielded yet functionally connected to the water environment.
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 accurate, continuous monitoring of pool water temperature profiles, facilitating energy savings and improved pool management by providing comprehensive temperature data for both public and private pools.
Implementation Method 1
an onboard integrated temperature sensor that may be located inside a hermetically water sealed unit... determine the underwater temperatures without having any actual direct contact with the surrounding water
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining a temperature of a fluid of a pool, the method may include: measuring at least one pool cleaning robot (PCR) parameter in relation to a period of time and by one or more PCR sensors located within an interior of the PCR; calculating at least one period of time PCR parameter; determining at least one value of at least one PCR parameter weight based on at least one value of the at least one period of time PCR parameter; and determining the temperature of the fluid of the pool based on the at least one period of time PCR parameter and the at least one PCR parameter weight.