Submerged Pool Sensor Mounting With Power-Line Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pool and spa sensors are often untethered, prone to removal, and lack reliable power and communication mechanisms, leading to inaccuracies and inefficiencies in data transmission and control.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system mounted on a submerged wall in the pool or spa, utilizing power-line communication (PLC) for reliable power and data transmission, with a transformer to step down voltage and a modem for data modulation, enabling communication with external equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If smart floaters are used for sensing, then wireless communication and battery operation are achieved, but the devices are subject to undesired removal and sensor damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces wireless RF communication with power-line communication (PLC) technology, substituting the mechanical/battery-based wireless system with an electrical field-based communication system that uses existing power lines as the transmission medium, thereby eliminating the need for batteries and improving reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces power lines as an intermediary medium for both power delivery and data communication. The PLC modem modulates data onto the power line signals, using the power line infrastructure as a dual-purpose intermediary for energy and information transfer, eliminating the need for separate wireless communication hardware
2Measurement precision
If conventional thermometers are used, then water temperature display is achieved, but the sensors lack power supply and control system connection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the power line infrastructure universal by enabling it to serve multiple functions: delivering electrical power to sensors and simultaneously transmitting communication data bidirectionally. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate power supplies and communication transceivers, reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The PLC modem enables the power line system to self-serve by automatically carrying both power and communication signals without requiring additional external infrastructure. The existing power lines become self-sufficient for both energy delivery and data transmission, eliminating the need for separate battery packs or wireless communication modules
3Measurement precision
If sensors are located in circulatory systems, then water temperature measurement is achieved, but accuracy decreases due to temperature differences in circulating water
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the sensor placement from the one-dimensional circulatory system to the three-dimensional main body of water where the pool/spa water directly resides. This dimensional change allows sensors to measure the actual pool water temperature rather than temperature of water in transit, improving both precision and reliability
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 a stable and efficient means of powering and communicating sensor data, allowing accurate water condition monitoring and control, even when pumps are inactive, and facilitating easy replacement of components.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer configured to provide electrical power to the sensor system
Implementation Method 2
data communications between the sensor system and the communication equipment comprises power line communication
Implementation Method 3
a housing (54) comprising a first inductive coupling that is electrically coupled to the power line; and a cartridge (50) comprising a second inductive coupling
Data Source
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AI summary
A pool or spa control system includes a sensor system with one or more sensors in contact with a main body of water. The sensor system measures water condition data of the body of water and is mounted on a wall submerged in the main body of water. The pool or spa control system also includes a modem that facilitates data communications between the sensor system and communication equipment positioned at a different location from the main body of water.