Pump Controller Scheduling Without Real-Time Clock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pump controllers for fluid systems, such as those in pools, are complex and costly due to the inclusion of graphic displays and real-time clocks, which are often underutilized since they require advanced user interfaces for scheduling pump operations.
Innovation Solution
A simplified user interface that allows users to program a delay time to initiate pump operations without a real-time clock, using a processor and memory to store instructions for controlling the pump, enabling operation based on a defined delay time and schedule repeat period, such as every 24 hours.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a pump controller includes a graphic display and real-time clock for advanced scheduling, then the pump can be operated at defined speeds for defined durations according to complex schedules, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the real-time clock and graphic display components from the pump controller system. Instead of incorporating these complex timekeeping and display devices, the system uses a simplified approach where users program delay times directly into the controller, which then initiates pump operations after the specified delay without requiring continuous time awareness or visual feedback interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive, complex components (real-time clock, graphic display) with simpler, more economical alternatives. The system uses basic timing circuits and simple LED indicators instead of costly display technologies, achieving the same scheduling functionality at a fraction of the cost while maintaining reliability for the intended application.
2Measurement precision
If a pump controller includes a real-time clock and graphic display, then precise time-based scheduling is enabled, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the real-time clock component entirely from the system. Instead of using a clock that continuously tracks time, the controller uses a delay timer that counts down from a programmed value. This approach achieves sufficient scheduling precision for pool pump applications without the expense of precision timekeeping hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a functional equivalent of time-based scheduling without copying the actual timekeeping mechanism. Rather than implementing a real-time clock that mirrors actual time, the system uses a delayed start mechanism that replicates the scheduling function by waiting a programmed duration before initiating pump operation, achieving the same practical result through a different technical approach.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a complex user interface with display and clock is provided, then advanced scheduling options are available, but the ease of operation decreases due to complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the graphic display and complex menu navigation systems from the user interface. Instead, users interact with a simple button interface that directly programs delay times through straightforward button presses. The system eliminates the need for navigating through multiple menu levels or interpreting display information, making the interface accessible to users with minimal technical knowledge.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional approach to user interaction. Rather than presenting users with a display showing time and schedule options that they must interpret and navigate, the system uses button presses that directly encode the desired delay time. The interface works by doing the opposite of displaying information - it directly implements the user's intent through simple input sequences that bypass complex display interpretation.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems of controlling the operation of a pump according to a pump operation schedule are described. In one constructions, a pump controller enters a programming mode and monitors a number of inputs received through a user interface while in the programming mode. The programming mode is then exited and a delay time is defined equal to one hour for each input received through the user interface while in the programming mode. A stored pump operation schedule is accessed and operation of the pump is initiated according to the pump operation schedule after a period of time equal to the delay time has elapsed since exiting the programming mode. Operation of the pump is again initiated according to the accessed pump operation schedule every twenty-four hours since the pump operation schedule was last initiated.