Pool And Spa Wireless Network Extension Using Power Enclosures
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pool and spa wireless networks face limitations in range and reliability due to physical obstructions and interference, leading to communication failures and equipment operation delays, especially in larger setups where a single WiFi router cannot connect multiple items across different locations.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a wireless network using access points located in electrical power enclosures, with a main access point connected to a home router and extending access points powered by separate electrical enclosures, allowing for extended coverage and connectivity through both wireless and wired connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a single WiFi router is used to connect pool equipment, then the system is simple and cost-effective, but the network range is limited and cannot cover larger areas with multiple pools or spas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the wireless network into multiple segments by deploying separate access points in different electrical enclosures throughout the pool/spa area. Each access point covers a specific local zone, and together they form an extended network that covers the entire area. This segmentation allows the system to achieve wide coverage without requiring a single complex high-power router.
2Reliability
If access points are deployed in electrical power enclosures to extend network range, then network reliability is improved and coverage is extended, but the installation requires more wiring and setup complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the wireless access point with the existing electrical power enclosure, merging two functions (power distribution and network connectivity) into a single integrated solution. The access point is powered through the existing electrical infrastructure, eliminating the need for separate power wiring and simplifying installation. This merging approach maintains reliability while reducing installation complexity.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple access points are deployed across different locations, then wireless coverage is extended to remote equipment, but the number of wiring connections and installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system leverages the existing electrical infrastructure to power and position the access points automatically. Each electrical enclosure that already exists in the pool/spa area can host an access point, eliminating the need for dedicated mounting structures or complex positioning. The access points self-configure into the network, reducing manual setup time and allowing rapid deployment across multiple locations.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for implementing extended wireless network using access points in electrical power enclosures for use in pool and spa systems are disclosed. In an example method, a computing system receives configuration information for a first wireless access point including a SSID and an IP address, in which the first wireless access point is included in a first electrical enclosure and is configured to communicate with first pieces of pool or spa equipment. The computing system receives configuration information for a second wireless access point, in which the second wireless access point is included in a second electrical enclosure and is configured to communicate with second pieces of pool or spa equipment. The computing system outputs the configuration information to the first and second wireless access points to initialize a wireless network by causing the first and second wireless access points to communicate.