Swim Spa Jet Layout for Laminar Flow and Lower Turbulence
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Swim spas often experience turbulent water flow, which can cause users to move off-center and potentially hit the sides, and current solutions are complex and expensive.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a recessed chamber with upper horizontal and lower vertical water propulsion devices that combine to create a laminar flow by intersecting horizontal and vertical water streams, reducing turbulence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional single-direction water propulsion devices are used, then the device complexity is low, but the water flow turbulence is high causing users to move off-center
Solution Approach 1:
The water propulsion system is segmented into multiple independent propulsion devices arranged in a circular pattern around the swimmer's path. Each device operates independently to create coordinated water flows that collectively reduce turbulence and maintain laminar flow conditions, resolving the contradiction between simple device structure and stable laminar water flow.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple water propulsion devices are merged into a coordinated system where their individual water flows combine to create a unified laminar flow pattern. The devices work together in synchronization, merging their propulsion effects to eliminate turbulence while maintaining the simplicity of individual device designs.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple propulsion devices are added to reduce turbulence, then the water flow laminarity improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each propulsion device in the circular arrangement is designed with universal characteristics, performing the same function of creating water flow in a standardized manner. This multi-functionality approach allows multiple devices to work together seamlessly, improving water flow laminarity while keeping each individual device relatively simple and standardized in design.
3Force
If turbulent water flow is produced, then the propulsion force is strong, but users hit the spa sides and swimming effectiveness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The water propulsion force is distributed locally around the swimmer's circular path through multiple strategically positioned devices. Each device provides localized propulsion force tailored to its specific position, creating a balanced force distribution that maintains strong overall propulsion while eliminating the concentrated turbulence that causes users to lose stability and collide with spa sides.
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
The system produces a more consistent and laminar water flow, enhancing the swimming experience by minimizing turbulence and maintaining user alignment within the spa.
Implementation Method 1
the first water propulsion body being directed in a horizontal direction to create a first, horizontal flow of water having a first turbulence, the second water propulsion body being directed in a vertical direction to create a second, vertical flow of water having a second turbulence
Implementation Method 2
Laminar flow is a type of flow pattern of a fluid in which all the particles are flowing in parallel lines, as opposed to turbulent flow, where the particles flow in random and chaotic directions
Implementation Method 3
the second, vertical flow of water combines with the first, horizontal flow of water to create a third, horizontal flow of water having a third turbulence, and wherein the third turbulence is less than the first turbulence and less than the second turbulence
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for circulating water in a swim spa. A recessed chamber formed in the shell of the spa defines a space to hold at least a portion of a first, upper horizontal water propulsion device and at least a portion of a second, lower vertical water propulsion device. The first, upper horizontal flow of water is combined with the second, lower vertical flow of water to create a third, horizontal flow of water. The resulting turbulence is lower, creating a more laminar flow and better user swimming experience. Jet bodies with side intakes may maximize capacity of the water propulsion devices.