Wireless Induction Coil System for Safe Spa Seatback Lighting

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing spa lighting systems require electrical connections that can be unsafe when exposed to water, and they lack a convenient method for wireless power transmission to accessories like lights and cup holders.

Innovation Solution

The system employs induction coils within the spa shell and selectively removable seatbacks to transmit and receive induction signals, powering spa accessories without conductive components exposed to water, ensuring safety and ease of integration with spa components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If electrical connections are used for spa lighting systems, then power transmission to lights is achieved, but safety is compromised due to water exposure risks

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesafetyVSAvoidelectrical hazards from water exposure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical electrical connection system with a wireless electromagnetic induction system. The transmitting coil in the spa shell and receiving coil in the seatback create an electromagnetic field that transfers power without physical contact, eliminating exposed conductors and the associated water exposure hazards while maintaining reliable power transmission to lighting and other spa accessories

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If wireless power transmission is implemented, then safety is improved by eliminating exposed conductors, but device complexity increases due to induction coil systems

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesafetyVSAvoidinduction coil system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The induction coil system serves multiple functions: the transmitting coil provides wireless power to multiple different seatbacks and accessories, while the receiving coil can power various devices including lights, cup holders, and other spa amenities. This multi-functionality justifies the initial complexity by providing a versatile platform that eliminates safety hazards across multiple applications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The electromagnetic field acts as an intermediary between the power source in the spa shell and the various accessories in the seatbacks. This intermediary enables safe wireless power transmission through water and air without direct electrical contact, simplifying the overall system architecture by removing the need for waterproof connectors and sealed electrical compartments

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If electrical connections are used in removable seatbacks, then power can be provided to accessories, but ease of operation is reduced due to connection and disconnection requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of seatback removal and installationVSAvoidelectrical connection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical electrical connectors with wireless electromagnetic induction. The transmitting coil remains fixed in the spa shell while the receiving coil in the removable seatback automatically couples through electromagnetic fields when positioned near the spa, eliminating the need for plugs, sockets, and sealing mechanisms that would complicate seatback installation and removal

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

This solution provides safe and efficient wireless power transmission to spa accessories, maintaining safety and consistency in lighting across interchangeable seatbacks, while preventing electrical hazards from water exposure.

Implementation Method 1

transmitting, by the transmitting device, an induction signal and receiving, by the receiving device, the induction signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11808442B1Systems and methods for wireless transmission of electricity for spa illumination
Publication Date: 2023.11.07 BULLFROG INT L C
  • US11808442B1 patent drawing
  • US11808442B1 patent drawing
  • US11808442B1 patent drawing

AI summary

This disclosure relates generally to induction systems for wirelessly transmitting electricity. Specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to methods and systems for wirelessly transmitting electricity to a light incorporated within, for example, a spa. In some embodiments, the systems include at least one pair of induction coils (e.g., receiving and transmitting coils) incorporated into a selectively removable spa seatback. The at least one pair of induction coils can be used to wirelessly transmit electricity to a light disposed within the selectively removable spa seatback. In some embodiments, a converter is incorporated into the system to adjust at least one characteristic of the light, such as brightness, color, and/or a lighting pattern.