Pool And Spa Remote Control Via Cloud-Based Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pool and spa control systems require users to create firewall ports and utilize static IP addresses for Internet access, limiting flexibility and convenience, and do not allow for easy configuration of Wi-Fi networking devices without Ethernet cables or separate power, nor do they aggregate data for trend analysis or regional issue identification.
Innovation Solution
The system enables Internet access to pool and spa controllers without static IP addresses or firewall ports, configures Wi-Fi devices using USB or SD cards without Ethernet cables or separate power, and aggregates data for trend analysis and regional issue evaluation, allowing connection without routers and providing advance warnings for equipment degradation and water-quality issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If users utilize static IP addresses and firewall ports for Internet access to pool controllers, then reliable remote access is achieved, but system complexity and user configuration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cloud-based server as an intermediary between the pool controller and remote user devices. The server receives data from the controller via any IP address (static or dynamic) and relays it to users through a web interface, eliminating the need for users to configure firewall ports or use static IP addresses while maintaining reliable remote access
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically manages IP address assignments and connections without requiring user intervention. The pool controller and server handle IP address changes dynamically, and the web interface automatically adapts to connect to the controller regardless of its current IP address, making the system self-configuring and user-friendly
2Reliability
If Wi-Fi networking devices require Ethernet cables and separate power for configuration, then stable connection is achieved, but ease of installation and portability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical Ethernet cable connection system with a wireless Wi-Fi configuration system. The controller can be configured wirelessly through a web interface, eliminating the need for physical Ethernet cables during setup while maintaining stable wireless connections for operation
Solution Approach 2:
The pool controller is designed to support multiple connection methods (Ethernet and Wi-Fi) and power sources (mains power and battery), making it universally adaptable to different installation scenarios. This multi-functionality allows the device to be installed in locations without easy access to power outlets or network infrastructure
3Loss of information
If data is collected from pool and spa systems, then monitoring capability is improved, but data storage requirements and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cloud-based server acts as an intermediary that receives, stores, and processes data from the pool controller. This externalizes the data storage and processing requirements from the controller itself, allowing the controller to remain simple while the server handles data aggregation, analysis, and presentation to users through the web interface
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback loops where collected data is analyzed by the server and used to generate alerts, notifications, and recommendations that are sent back to users through the web interface. This automated feedback mechanism provides actionable insights without requiring complex local processing at the controller
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of (remotely) controlling aspects of pools and spas and of modifying water contained therein are detailed. Internet-enabled access to pool and spa controllers may happen without any need for users to create firewall ports or utilize static internet protocol addresses. Certain networking devices may be configured using a USB connection or SD card, avoiding any requirement for an Ethernet cable or supplying separate power to the devices during configuration. Time-varying data may be obtained in respect of one or more installations and analyzed for various information.