Pool Cleaner Docking Station Using Existing Pool Fittings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing docking stations for battery-driven pool cleaners are limited in flexibility, require complex installation, and face challenges in providing power and anchoring, with unsightly cabling and difficulty in making them aesthetically pleasing and safe.
Innovation Solution
A docking station system that can be attached to existing features of a pool or spa, such as a skimmer, circulation port, or pool light fitting, utilizing solar panels and water flow for power generation, with modular design and improved cable management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If docking stations are installed externally or out of water with traditional cabling methods, then power supply is provided, but cabling becomes unsightly and difficult to make safe and aesthetically pleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the cabling from the visible pool deck area by routing it through the pool structure itself (skimmers, light fittings, circulation ports). This removes the harmful visual element from the aesthetic zone while maintaining power supply function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses existing pool infrastructure components (skimmers, light fittings, circulation ports) as intermediary structures to hide and route cabling. These intermediaries serve dual purposes: maintaining their original functions while concealing the unsightly cabling within their structures.
2Stability of the object's composition
If docking stations are anchored with sufficient rigidity, then stability is improved, but drilling into pool deck, coping, or wall becomes necessary which pool owners are averse to
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the docking station universally attachable to multiple existing pool features (skimmers, light fittings, circulation ports). This multi-functionality allows the same docking station design to be installed in various locations without requiring custom anchoring solutions for each surface type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a homogeneous attachment mechanism that works across different pool structures. By designing a universal mounting system that can interface with various existing features, the solution maintains installation simplicity while achieving stable attachment without drilling.
3Adaptability or versatility
If docking stations are made flexible in location, then adaptability is improved, but anchoring with sufficient rigidity becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station is designed with universal attachment capabilities that work with multiple pool features at various locations. This allows flexible placement while maintaining strong anchoring through the standardized mounting interface that adapts to different structural features.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic attachment system that can adapt to different mounting locations and structural characteristics. The mounting mechanism can be configured for various positions while maintaining adequate anchoring strength through adjustment and adaptation to the specific installation location.
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 sturdy, easy-to-install docking stations that can be placed at multiple locations, reducing visible cabling and enhancing aesthetic appeal while ensuring safe and efficient power supply to the pool cleaners.
Implementation Method 1
the dock includes a solar panel
Implementation Method 2
an underwater docking station for a pool cleaner may be configured to generate electrical energy based on a flow of water
Data Source
AI summary
A docking station for a self-propelled pool cleaner may be supported at one or more locations within a swimming pool or spa, such as but not limited to a skimmer of the swimming pool or spa, a port for a circulation system of the pool or spa such as an inlet or an outlet, a pool light fitting of the pool or spa, and/or on a floor of the pool or spa. The docking stations may utilize existing features of the swimming pool or spa without requiring additional devices or systems for installing the docking station.