Pool Power Hub With GFCI Outlets for Centralized Device Supply

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing pool skimmers and pumps lack a centralized power solution that can safely and efficiently power multiple devices around a pool, leading to issues with electrical safety, aesthetics, and convenience, as they typically have isolated electrical systems that do not allow for easy connection of power to other devices.

Innovation Solution

A pool hub system that integrates a power hub, a pump, and electrical outlets, including a ground fault circuit interrupter, to provide a centralized power source for various pool devices, with options for solar power and remote communication capabilities, ensuring safe and efficient power distribution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If isolated electrical systems are used for each pool device, then electrical safety is maintained, but power distribution to multiple devices becomes complex and aesthetically problematic

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical safetyVSAvoidpower distribution system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple electrical systems into a single centralized power hub that distributes power to multiple pool devices. The power hub integrates a pump, electrical outlets, and GFCI protection in one unit, eliminating the need for separate isolated electrical systems for each device while maintaining safety through centralized ground fault protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The power hub is designed as a universal power distribution system that can supply power to various different pool devices including pumps, lights, heaters, and electronic accessories. The system provides multiple electrical outlets and connectivity options that accommodate diverse power needs while maintaining a single integrated design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If extension cords are used to power multiple devices near the pool, then power distribution is simplified, but electrical danger and trip hazards increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower distributionVSAvoidelectrical danger
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The power hub acts as an intermediary device that provides safe electrical connections through built-in GFCI protection and proper grounding. Instead of using extension cords that create trip hazards and electrical dangers, the power hub offers dedicated outlets with integrated safety features that mediate between the electrical system and pool devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The power hub includes built-in ground fault circuit interrupter protection that automatically detects and responds to electrical hazards. The system self-monitors and self-protects by cutting off power when faults are detected, eliminating the need for external safety measures associated with extension cord usage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If separate electrical connections are used for each device, then device independence is maintained, but aesthetic problems and convenience issues arise

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice independenceVSAvoidconvenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The power hub merges multiple electrical connection points into a single location, allowing multiple devices to be powered from one centralized unit. This maintains device independence in terms of functionality while improving convenience by consolidating power distribution to a single accessible location away from the pool area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS20240197563A1Pool hub apparatus and methods
Publication Date: 2024.06.20 BELGRAVIA WOOD LTD
  • US20240197563A1 patent drawing
  • US20240197563A1 patent drawing
  • US20240197563A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for a pool hub. The pool hub may include a primary electrical system, a pump, a secondary electrical system that receives power from the primary electrical system; a converter; and an electrical outlet that receives power from the secondary electrical system; where the converter distributes power from the primary electrical system to the secondary electrical system. A number of sensors and/or devices associated with a pool may be powered via the secondary electrical system.