Waterproof Floatable Spa Remote With Docking and Wireless Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote control systems for spas lack waterproof and floatable designs, making them unsuitable for use in wet environments and limiting user convenience by requiring position changes to operate spa functions.
Innovation Solution
A waterproof floatable remote control with a concentrically layered structure, including a top polyester layer, resistive touch screen, and LCD module, sealed with adhesive layers to prevent water exposure, along with a docking station for wireless communication and charging, allowing operation while floating in water and maintaining mechanical support and optical clarity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a remote control is designed for spa use, then user convenience is improved by allowing operation without position changes, but waterproofing and floatability add structural complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control is divided into multiple concentric layers (first upper step, second lower step, polyester layer, polycarbonate layer) with distinct functions. Each layer provides specific protection or functionality, allowing the complex waterproof and floatable design to be managed through modular segmentation rather than a monolithic structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested concentric layer structure where the LCD module is positioned within the second lower step, surrounded by the polycarbonate layer, which is in turn surrounded by the polyester layer and adhesive layers. This nesting provides multiple levels of protection while maintaining a compact form factor suitable for remote control applications.
2Reliability
If adhesive layers are added to seal and protect components, then waterproofing is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses thin film adhesive layers (first adhesive layer, second adhesive layer, perimeter adhesive) that conform to the concentric layer structure. These flexible thin films provide effective waterproof sealing between layers without requiring complex rigid sealing mechanisms, simplifying the manufacturing process while ensuring reliable waterproofing.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote control combines multiple materials (polyester, polycarbonate, adhesive compounds) in a composite concentric layer structure. Each material is selected for its specific properties (water resistance, structural support, sealing capability), and their combination creates a synergistic effect that achieves superior waterproofing while maintaining manufacturability through established composite material techniques.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the polyester layer width exceeds the touch screen structure width, then water exposure protection is improved, but material usage and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The polyester layer is designed with varying width characteristics - wider at the edges to provide water protection and narrower toward the center where the touch screen is located. This local variation in dimensions provides enhanced water exposure protection at the periphery while minimizing excess material usage in the central area, optimizing the balance between protection and material efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
A waterproof, floatable and dockable remote control for controlling portable spa functions comprising a waterproof touch screen display and a sealed battery housing containing a battery rechargeable by wireless power transfer wherein the remote communicates over a wireless link with a spa-based controller and employs a graphic display system designed to maintain graphics responsiveness while extending battery life.