U.S. patent application number 16/912927 was filed with the patent office on 2020-11-19 for system and apparatus for determining and controlling water clarity.
The applicant listed for this patent is Stephen P. Kasten. Invention is credited to Stephen P. Kasten.
Application Number | 20200361786 16/912927 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004989417 |
Filed Date | 2020-11-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20200361786 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kasten; Stephen P. |
November 19, 2020 |
SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR DETERMINING AND CONTROLLING WATER
CLARITY
Abstract
A system, method and apparatus for determining and controlling
water clarity or water opacity especially useful in pools, spas,
and contained bodies of water.
Inventors: |
Kasten; Stephen P.;
(Prescott, AZ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Kasten; Stephen P. |
Prescott |
AZ |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000004989417 |
Appl. No.: |
16/912927 |
Filed: |
June 26, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14283868 |
May 21, 2014 |
10710902 |
|
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16912927 |
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61825965 |
May 21, 2013 |
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61885353 |
Oct 1, 2013 |
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61920421 |
Dec 23, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C02F 2209/001 20130101;
C02F 1/766 20130101; C02F 2209/11 20130101; C02F 1/763 20130101;
G21K 5/08 20130101; C02F 2103/42 20130101; C02F 2209/006 20130101;
C02F 1/008 20130101; C02F 1/004 20130101; C02F 2209/008 20130101;
C02F 2305/02 20130101; G05D 21/02 20130101; C02F 1/32 20130101;
C02F 1/76 20130101; C02F 2303/04 20130101 |
International
Class: |
C02F 1/00 20060101
C02F001/00; G05D 21/02 20060101 G05D021/02; C02F 1/76 20060101
C02F001/76; G21K 5/08 20060101 G21K005/08 |
Claims
1. A system for determining and controlling water clarity in a
treatable body of water contained in a water containment apparatus
comprising: a body of water contained in a water containment
apparatus having a plurality of sides; a first transparent window
positioned within one side of the water containment apparatus and a
second transparent window positioned within an opposite side of the
water containment apparatus; a light source capable of lighting up
the water contained in the water containment apparatus wherein the
light source is positioned outside of the water containment
apparatus near the first transparent window; a light sensitive
detection circuit positioned outside of the water containment
apparatus near the second transparent window; and a control unit
capable of receiving an output signal from the light sensitive
detection circuit for determining a clarity level of the body of
water.
2. The system of claim 1 further comprising a local indicator
connected to the control unit and positioned close to the body of
water for indicating the clarity level of the body of water based
on the output signal from the light sensitive detection
circuit.
3. The system of claim 1 further comprising a remote indicator
connected to the control unit and positioned remotely from the body
of water for indicating the clarity level of the body of water
based on the output signal from the light sensitive detection
circuit.
4. The system of claim 3 wherein the remote indicator is wirelessly
connected to the control unit.
5. The system of claim 1 wherein the water containment apparatus
comprises at least one of a spa, a pool, a water trough, a water
cistern, and a water tank.
6. The system of claim 1 further comprising a water treatment
system connected to the body of water and the control unit wherein
the control unit is also capable of computing and sending a target
signal to the water treatment system to treat the body of
water.
7. The system of claim 6 wherein the control unit is capable of
continually receiving signals from the light sensitive detection
circuit and capable of continuously communicating with the water
treatment system to maintain a predetermined level of an active
disinfectant within said body of water wherein said predetermined
level of active disinfectant is determined based on the clarity
level of the body of water.
8. The system of claim 7 wherein the water treatment system
comprises a chlorine or bromine generator and the control unit
continually communicates with the chlorine or bromine generator to
maintain a specific free chlorine level within the body of water
where the specific level of free chlorine or bromine is determined
based on the clarity level of the body of water.
9. The system of claim 6 wherein the water treatment system
comprises at least one of a bromine generator, a chlorine
generator, a filtration device, a chemical injection system, a UV
treatment system, or another type of water treatment system or
device.
10. A method for determining and controlling water clarity in at
least one of a spa and pool comprising the steps of: a) providing a
water chamber having opposing open ends and a water inlet and water
outlet located between the opposing open ends where the water inlet
is located near one of the opposing open ends of the water chamber
and the water outlet is located near the other of the opposing open
ends of the water chamber, a first transparent lens covering one of
the opposing open ends of the water chamber, and a second
transparent lens covering the other of the opposing open ends of
the water chamber; b) directing water from said at least one of a
spa and pool through the water chamber; c) employing a light source
positioned at one of the opposing open ends of the water chamber
located near the water inlet to light up water contained within the
water chamber; d) providing a light sensitive detection circuit
positioned at the other of the opposing open ends of the water
chamber located near the water outlet; and e) employing a control
unit to receive an output signal from the light sensitive detection
circuit to determine a clarity level of the water in the water
chamber.
11. The method of claim 10 further comprising the step of f)
utilizing the control unit to compute and send a signal to a water
treatment system connected to said at least one of a spa and pool
to treat water in said at least one of a spa and pool.
12. The method of claim 11 wherein steps b) through f) are
continuously repeated to maintain a predetermined level of an
active disinfectant within said at least one of a spa and pool
wherein said predetermined level of active disinfectant is
determined based on the clarity level of the water in the water
chamber.
13. The method of claim 10 further comprising the step of providing
a local indicator connected to the control unit and positioned
close to said at least one of a spa and pool for indicating the
clarity of the water within said at least one of a spa and
pool.
14. The method of claim 10 further comprising the step of providing
a remote indicator connected to the control unit and positioned
remotely from said at least one of a spa and pool for indicating
the clarity of the water within said at least one of a spa and
pool.
15. The method of claim 11 wherein the step of utilizing the
control unit to compute a signal to send to a water treatment
system comprises the step of utilizing the control unit to compute
and send a signal to at least one of a bromine generator, a
chlorine generator, a filtration device, a chemical injection
system, and a dissolved air floatation unit.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of and claims the benefit
of, and priority to U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No.
14/283,868 filed May 21, 2014, currently pending, which application
claims the benefit of, and priority to, provisional patent
application having Ser. No. 61/825,965, filed May 21, 2013,
provisional patent application having Ser. No. 61/885,353, filed
Oct. 1, 2013, and provisional patent application having Ser. No.
61/920,421, filed Dec. 23, 2013, which are all herein incorporated
by reference in their entireties.
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is directed to a system and apparatus
for determining and controlling water clarity. More specifically,
the present invention is directed to a system and apparatus for
determining and controlling water clarity that includes a water
chamber having an inlet, an outlet, and a transparent lens or
window, a light source capable of lighting up the water contained
in the water chamber, a light sensitive detection circuit
positioned near the transparent lens or window of the water
chamber, and a control unit capable of receiving an output signal
from the light sensitive detection circuit to determine water
clarity and/or to send a signal to a water treatment system. The
water chamber may specifically be a spa or a pool.
[0003] The present invention is also directed to a method for
determining and controlling water clarity in a spa and/or pool
which includes the steps of providing a water chamber having at
least one transparent window, a water inlet, and a water outlet,
directing water from the spa and/or pool through the water chamber,
employing a light source to light up water contained in the water
chamber, providing a light sensitive detection circuit near the
transparent window, and employing a control unit to receive an
output from the light sensitive detection circuit to determine
clarity of the spa or pool water and/or to send a signal to a water
treatment system for treating the spa or pool. The system and
method for determining and controlling water clarity can be a
closed loop system (easily installed into an existing pool or spa
unit or which can be built into a new pool or spa unit) where the
control unit repeatedly determines water clarity and sends a signal
to the water treatment system to adjust treatment of the water if
necessary based on the clarity of the water.
[0004] In a particularly useful embodiment, the invention is
directed to a system, method and apparatus for determining and
controlling water clarity in a salt water pool or spa. The salt
water in the pool or spa is directed to a water chamber and
associated control unit that are designed to determine the clarity
of the salt water and then send a signal to a chlorine or bromine
generator (which changes salt in the water to chlorine or bromine
via electrolysis) that is in communication with the salt water in
the pool or spa to adjust the output from the chlorine/bromine
generator, if necessary, so that a consistent free chlorine or
bromine level can be maintained in the pool or spa.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0005] Salt water pools and spas have become increasingly popular
over the last several years. Chlorine generating salt water pools
and spas are the most common and utilize systems that transform
salt in the water (NaCl) to pure Chlorine (Cl) through
electrolysis. In water, this quickly forms hypochlorous acid (HClO)
and sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) which function as sanitation
byproducts. After reacting with the contaminants in the water,
these sanitation byproducts revert back to salt. The salt is then
converted to chlorine again through electrolysis, and the process
continues to repeat itself. This largely eliminates the need for
the addition of outside sanitizers. These types of generators are
installed with open loop control systems and the run time for the
generator is usually set manually.
[0006] Non-salt water pools and spas may use chemical feed systems
to sanitize the water in the pool or spa. These systems may be
automatic or manual and, like the chlorine generator described
above, they are typically installed with open loop systems where
the chemical feed or sanitizer generator are set manually.
[0007] Manually setting the run time for the generator in a salt
water pool or spa, or for the chemical feed or sanitizer systems in
a non-salt water pool or spa, is effective provided that the
sanitation demand on the system is constant. If the load is too
high, the system will not generate enough sanitizer, resulting in
under sanitation. In these cases, unhealthy organic build up or
microbial life may develop. Alternatively, if the load is too
light, extra chlorine or extra sanitizer may be generated resulting
in irritation to bathers, equipment corrosion, and reduced
generator cell life or reduced equipment life.
[0008] Over sanitation and under sanitation are particularly
problematic in spa sanitizer systems, especially the newly
developed spa sanitizer systems for salt water spas. Unlike
swimming pools, many spas sit idle for long periods of time. They
are generally covered and often have sophisticated filtration and
sanitation systems. In these cases, it is possible that a sanitizer
or a chlorine/bromine generator (in the case of salt water spas)
set for one type of use one week may produce far too much sanitizer
the next week when the spa goes unused and remains covered. The
result can be severe corrosion of internal components and/or
external decorative stainless jet trim, and severe deterioration of
spa pillows, spa covers, and even jet seal O-rings.
[0009] The simplest way to overcome these problems associated with
over sanitation is to include feedback to eliminate over-sanitation
and over-chlorination. On the most popular spa systems available
today, this is done by a timer that shuts down the system and
forces the user (via indicator lights on the spa) to test the water
and reset use parameters on the control system. This produces a
somewhat modified open loop system. An ideal system would actually
analyze the water and determine exactly how much sanitizer or
chlorine is needed for proper sanitation, and how much will result
in over sanitation or chlorination. From a practical standpoint,
this has been historically difficult and expensive to implement on
a consumer-level scale.
[0010] A more practical solution is to use an analog to proper
sanitation--something that is readily (and inexpensively) measured.
Fortunately, anyone who has owned a spa knows that the most common
way to determine whether or not the water needs attention is simply
by looking at it--i.e. by checking the clarity or opacity of the
water. Accordingly, there is a need for a simple and inexpensive
system and apparatus that can measure the water clarity or opacity
in a pool or spa (or any other body of water) which can be easily
incorporated into, and/or associated with, an existing water
treatment system that already functions with the pool or spa (or
any other body of water).
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention is directed to a system and apparatus
for determining and controlling water clarity where the water
clarity is used to determine whether a water treatment system
connected to the water needs to be adjusted. In other words, water
clarity in a pool, spa, water cistern, or any other body of water
is evaluated and used to determine whether an existing water
treatment system in communication with the water needs to be
adjusted to maintain a sanitization level of the water where the
sanitization level is determined by the water clarity.
[0012] In one exemplary embodiment of the invention, the invention
is directed to an apparatus for determining and controlling water
opacity or clarity that includes a water chamber having a water
inlet, a water outlet, and a transparent member, a light source
positioned near the transparent member for lighting the water
contained in the water chamber, a light sensitive detection unit
for detecting the light, and a control unit capable of receiving an
output signal from the light sensitive detection unit for
determining the opacity or clarity of the water contained within
the water chamber. The control unit may also be capable of
determining and sending a target signal to a water treatment system
which functions to treat the water that flows through the water
chamber.
[0013] In another exemplary embodiment of the apparatus of the
present invention for determining and controlling water clarity or
opacity, the apparatus includes a water chamber having opposing
open ends and a water inlet and water outlet located between the
opposing ends, a transparent lens covering each of the opposing
open ends of the water chamber, a light source positioned at one
opposing end of the water chamber, a light sensitive detection
circuit positioned at the other opposing end of the water chamber,
and a control unit capable of receiving an output signal from the
light sensitive detection circuit and determining a target signal
to send to a water treatment system which functions to treat water.
The apparatus may also include an end cap placed over each
transparent lens. The light sensitive detection circuit may
include, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: a
photoresistor, a photodiode, a phototransistor, and a photovoltaic
cell. Further, the water chamber may comprise any number of shapes
which facilitate building it into an existing pool or spa system
including, but not limited to, a cylindrical shape that can be
easily fitted between existing water lines and/or existing water
filtration systems. In addition, the apparatus may include a local
indicator connected to the control unit, and positioned close to a
body of water that is capable of entering the water inlet of the
water chamber, for indicating an opacity or clarity level of the
water in the water chamber based on the output signal from the
light sensitive detection circuit. The apparatus of the present
invention may also include a remote indicator connected to the
control unit, and positioned remotely from a body of water that is
capable of entering the water inlet of the water chamber, for
indicating an opacity or clarity level of the water in the water
chamber based on the output signal from the light sensitive
detection circuit. Further, such a remote indicator may be
wirelessly connected to the control unit.
[0014] In still another exemplary embodiment, the present invention
includes an apparatus for determining and controlling water clarity
or opacity in a treatable body of water that includes a water
chamber having opposing open ends, a water inlet for receiving
water from a treatable body of water, and a water outlet for
releasing water from the water chamber, the water inlet and outlet
being positioned between opposing open ends of the water chamber, a
transparent lens covering each of the opposing open ends of the
water chamber, a light source positioned at one opposing end of the
water chamber, a light sensitive detection circuit positioned at
the other opposing end of the water chamber, and a control unit
capable of both receiving an output signal from the light sensitive
detection circuit and computing a target signal to send to a water
treatment system which functions to treat the treatable body of
water. The apparatus may also include an end cap placed over each
transparent lens. The light sensitive detection circuit may
include, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: a
photoresistor, a photodiode, a phototransistor, and a photovoltaic
cell. Further, the water chamber may comprise any number of shapes
which facilitate building it into an existing pool or spa system
including, but not limited to, a cylindrical shape that can be
easily fitted between existing water lines and/or existing water
filtration systems. In addition, the apparatus may include a local
indicator connected to the control unit and positioned close to the
treatable body of water for indicating an opacity or clarity level
of the water in the water chamber based on the output signal from
the light sensitive detection circuit. The apparatus of the present
invention may also include a remote indicator connected to the
control unit and positioned remotely from the treatable body of
water for indicating an opacity or clarity level of the water in
the water chamber based on the output signal from the light
sensitive detection circuit. Further, such a remote indicator may
be wirelessly connected to the control unit.
[0015] The present invention is also directed to a system for
determining and controlling water opacity or clarity in a treatable
body of water contained in a water containment apparatus which
includes a body of water contained in the water containment
apparatus, a light source capable of lighting up the water
contained in the water containment apparatus, at least one
transparent window positioned within the water containment
apparatus, a light sensitive detection circuit positioned near said
at least one transparent window, and a control unit capable of
receiving an output signal from the light sensitive detection
circuit for determining an opacity or clarity level of the body of
water. The system may also include a local indicator connected to
the control unit and positioned close to the body of water for
indicating the clarity or opacity level of the body of water based
on the output signal from the light sensitive detection circuit. In
addition, the system may also include a remote indicator connected
to the control unit and positioned remotely from the body of water
for indicating the clarity or opacity level of the body of water
based on the output signal from the light sensitive detection
circuit. When the system includes a remote indicator, the remote
indicator may be wirelessly connected to the control unit. The
water containment apparatus may include, but is not limited to, a
spa, a pool, a water trough, a water cistern, or a water tank. The
system may further include a water treatment system connected to
the body of water and the control unit where the control unit is
also capable of computing and sending a target signal to the water
treatment system to treat the body of water. The water treatment
system may include, but is not limited to, any of the following: a
bromine generator, a chlorine generator, a filtration device, and a
chemical injection system. In addition, the control unit may be
capable of repeatedly communicating with the water treatment system
to maintain a predetermined level of an active disinfectant within
the body of water where the predetermined level of the active
disinfectant is determined based on the clarity level of the body
of water. The water treatment system may include a chlorine
generator with the control unit continually communicating with the
chlorine generator to maintain a specific free chlorine level
within the body of water where the specific level of free chlorine
is determined based on the clarity level of the body of water.
[0016] The present invention is also directed to a method for
determining and controlling water clarity in a spa and/or pool
which includes the steps of a) providing a water chamber having at
least one transparent window, a water inlet, and a water outlet, b)
directing water from the spa and/or pool through the water chamber,
c) employing a light source to light up water contained within the
water chamber, d) providing a light sensitive detection circuit
adjacent to the transparent window(s), and e) employing a control
unit to receive an output signal from the light sensitive detection
circuit to determine a clarity or opacity level of the water in the
water chamber. The method may also include the step of f) utilizing
the control unit to compute and send a signal to a water treatment
system connected to the spa and/or pool to treat the water in the
spa and/or pool. The method may further include continuously
repeating steps b) through f) to maintain a predetermined level of
an active disinfectant within the spa and/or pool where the
predetermined level of the active disinfectant is determined based
on the clarity or opacity level of the water in the water chamber.
The water treatment system used in this method may be, but is not
limited to, any of the following: a bromine generator, a chlorine
generator, a filtration device, and a chemical injection system. If
the method of the present invention is used for determining and
controlling water clarity or opacity in a salt water pool and/or
spa, the water treatment system may be a chlorine generator which
functions to convert salt to chlorine through electrolysis with
steps b) through f) being continuously being repeated to maintain a
specific free chlorine level within the pool and/or spa. Finally,
the method may also include the step of providing a local indicator
positioned close to the pool and/or spa and/or a remote indicator
positioned remotely from the pool and/or spa where the local and/or
remote indicator is connected to the control unit for indicating
the clarity level or opacity level of the water in the pool and/or
spa.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] The subject invention will hereafter be described in
conjunction with the appended drawing figures, wherein like
numerals denote like elements, and
[0018] FIG. 1 is a schematic showing a prior art open loop chorine
generator control system used in salt water spas and/or a prior art
open loop sanitation control system used in fresh water spas or
pools;
[0019] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention of an apparatus for determining and controlling
water clarity or water opacity;
[0020] FIG. 3 is a schematic of an exemplary closed loop system of
the present invention for determining and controlling water clarity
or water opacity in a spa or pool;
[0021] FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of an exemplary embodiment
of an apparatus of the present invention for determining and
controlling water arity or water opacity shown alone without being
connected to a control unit;
[0022] FIG. 5 is another exemplary embodiment of a water clarity
monitoring and control system of the present invention for
monitoring and controlling water clarity in a treatable body of
water;
[0023] FIG. 6 is yet another embodiment of a water clarity
monitoring and control system of the present invention for
monitoring and controlling water clarity in a treatable body of
water having an apparatus for monitoring and controlling water
clarity integrated into an existing filtration system for a pool or
spa; and
[0024] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an exemplary method of the
present invention for determining and controlling water clarity in
a pool or spa.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] The present invention is directed to a system, method, and
apparatus for determining, controlling and continuously monitoring
the water clarity or water opacity of a treatable body of water
such as the water contained in a spa, a pool, or any other body of
water that needs to maintain a certain level of sanitation
depending on its purpose. Any of the systems, methods, or apparatus
that are described herein may be used to measure water clarity (i.e
the clearness of the water) or water opacity (i.e. the opaqueness
of the water). Either measurement of the water can be used to
determine if the water needs more treatment, less treatment, or no
treatment.
[0026] FIG. 1 is a schematic showing a prior art open loop chlorine
generator control system used in salt water spas and/or a prior art
open loop sanitation control system used in fresh water spas. In
this open loop system 10, water from a spa (or pool) is drawn
through a filter 12. Once the water passes through filter 12, it is
directed to, and passes through, a generator 14 such as a chlorine
generator (in the case of a salt water spa or pool) or a sanitizer
injector (in the case of a fresh water spa or pool). The generator
14 has a timer control 16 associated with it which is adjusted or
set manually. After passing through the generator 14, the water is
returned to the spa or pool via a circulation pump 18. This system
is referred to as an open loop system because the generator 14
controls chlorine or bromine generation (in a salt water pool or
spa) or the sanitization amount or level (in a fresh water pool or
spa) is controlled or set manually with no automatic feedback loop
to reset the generator 14. The present invention is directed to a
system and method for determining and controlling water clarity or
opacity that provides automated feedback to automatically adjust
the generator 14.
[0027] The present invention also includes an apparatus for
determining and controlling water clarity or water opacity. FIG. 2
is a schematic view of an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention of an apparatus 20 for determining and controlling water
clarity or water opacity. Apparatus 20 includes a water chamber 22
having opposing open ends, a water inlet 24, and a water outlet 26.
Opposing open ends of water chamber 22 are each covered with a
transparent lens 28, 30. A light source 32 is positioned at one
opposing end of the water chamber 22 while a light detection
circuit 34 is positioned at the other opposing end of the water
chamber 22. The light detection circuit 34 detects light contained
within the water in the water chamber 22 and sends an output signal
to a control unit 36 which determines the water clarity or water
opacity of the water contained in the water chamber 22. The control
unit 36 then determines whether the water in the spa or pool needs
more treatment, less treatment, or no treatment based on the water
clarity or water opacity and sends a signal to a treatment system
to adjust treatment of the water if necessary.
[0028] FIG. 3 is a schematic of an exemplary closed loop system of
the present invention for determining and controlling water clarity
or water opacity in a spa or pool. System 40 for determining and
controlling water clarity or water opacity includes a filter 42
though which water enters the system. After filtration, the water
passes through a generator 44 before being drawn into the
circulation pump 46. The generator 44 may be a chlorine or bromine
generator (which uses salt in the water in a salt water spa or pool
to create either chlorine or bromine via electrolysis) or a
sanitizer injector (which injects a chemical sanitizer such as
bromine, chlorine, or some other chemical into fresh water
contained in a fresh water spa or pool). After passing through the
circulation pump 46, the water is directed into the water inlet 24
of the water chamber 22. Light source 32 lights up water contained
in the water chamber 22 by shining light through transparent lens
or window 28. Light detection circuit 34 detects light within the
water through transparent lens or window 30 and sends a signal to
control unit 36. Control unit 36 determines water clarity or water
opacity and whether the water in the water chamber needs more
treatment, less treatment, or no change in treatment. Control unit
36 then computes the proper signal to send to generator 44 to
adjust generator 44 to properly treat the water. Control unit 36
may use an algorithm to maintain water clarity while minimizing
"on" time of the generator 44. In effect, it "hunts" for the lowest
use level of the generator that works to maintain water clarity. If
at some point the water clarity begins to deteriorate, control unit
36 resets to the maximum level until water clarity returns. As
water clarity is restored, the control unit 36 begins to back down
on the run time of the generator 44 thereby "hunting" for the
proper use level of generator 44. In FIG. 3, solid lines represent
water connections and water flow through those connections while
dashed lines represent electrical connections.
[0029] As an example of how this system might be implemented,
consider a chlorine generator system used in a salt water spa that
is set to run 10 hours per day under moderate use conditions.
Assume the owner goes on vacation and the use of the spa drops to
zero use. If the system of the present invention determines that
the water is clear, the system may reduce output by 10% daily from
the chlorine generator until the system determines that there is an
increase in the opacity of the water. Once the system detects an
increase in the opacity of the water, it may increase output by 10%
for one day. In the event that opacity of the water continues to
increase, it may continue to increase output from the chlorine
generator until opacity of the water stabilizes or begins to
decrease. The system of the present invention can be used as a
stand alone means of feedback or as a means of augmenting the open
loop control systems currently used in the prior art.
[0030] With respect to the components of the system, the light
source could be an LED in its simplest form or any other light
source such as, but not limited to, a laser light source, an
infra-red light source, an incandescent light source, a fluorescent
light source, etc. In its simplest form, the light sensitive
detection circuit could be a photoresistor used as the gain
resistor in an operational amplifier. In addition, the light
sensitive detection circuit may include, but is not limited to, any
one or more of the following: a photodiode, a phototransistor, and
a photovoltaic cell. The lenses would most likely be acrylic, as
acrylic is inexpensive and very resistant to pool and spa
chemicals. Those skilled in the art will recognize that there are
numerous and varied options for designing light sensitive detection
circuits and the examples set forth here are not meant to be
limiting in any way.
[0031] The exemplary apparatus of the present invention shown in
FIG. 2 is ideally located/positioned after the filter and before
the heater in an existing spa system. The apparatus can be easily
removed, cleaned, and replaced if needed. If it is not practical to
position the apparatus of the present invention before the chlorine
generator in a salt water spa or before a sanitizer injection
point/chlorine or bromine generator in a fresh water spa, it may be
necessary to ignore the readings from the apparatus of the present
invention when the generator or injector is operating. Chlorine (or
bromine) generator control in a salt water spa and sanitizer feed
control in a fresh water spa requires attention in the design of
the present invention. In general, low opacity (clear water) means
that minimal sanitizer is needed and the chlorine (or bromine)
generator (in the salt water system) need only run minimally, and
the sanitizer injector (in the fresh water system) needs only
minimum output. With salt water spas, the design may be able to
integrate measurements over time thereby decreasing run time of the
generator as repeated clear measurements accumulate over time. If
the opacity of the water increases, the generator can increase
output until the opacity of the water decreases. With either fresh
or salt water spas or pools, the controller may be able to maintain
a stable sanitizer minimum output in clear water conditions that is
needed to maintain a particular sanitizer level in a particular
size of spa or pool.
[0032] It may be necessary to refrain from determining water
clarity or water opacity using the system, method and apparatus of
the present invention during certain periods of spa or pool
operation including when a chlorine (or bromine) generator is
running in a salt water spa or pool and when a sanitizer injector
is running in a fresh water spa or pool. The generator or injector
may create fine bubbles which could produce a false high opacity.
It may also be necessary to refrain from determining water clarity
or water opacity when the jets in the spa or certain pool
filtration equipment is running since some such equipment may cause
air to be trapped in the water which could also produce a false
high opacity reading. There may also be a need to override or reset
the readings for water clarity or water opacity in instances where
the introduction of additives temporarily cloud the water.
[0033] The system for determining and controlling water clarity of
the present invention may also allow for the degradation of the
water chamber and its associated components by periodically
recalibrating, either automatically or manually, and by adjusting
output based on calibration measurements over time. Advantages of
the system, method and apparatus of the present invention for
determining and controlling water clarity or water opacity include
1) providing feedback to an otherwise open loop control system at
low cost, 2) increasing the life span of the chlorine (or bromine)
generator (in the salt water systems) and decreasing sanitizer use
in the fresh water systems while still maintaining safe sanitizer
levels, 3) decreasing the likelihood of over
chlorination/sanitation and resulting spa damage, and 4) the
utilization of simple and inexpensive feedback measurement
technology.
[0034] FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of an exemplary embodiment
of an apparatus 50 of the present invention for determining and
controlling water clarity or water opacity shown alone without
being connected to a control unit. Apparatus 50 shown FIG. 5
includes a water chamber 52 (that can be made of one or more
components) having opposing open ends, a water inlet 54, and a
water outlet 56. Opposing open ends of water chamber 52 are each
covered with a transparent lens 58, 60. A light source 62 is
positioned at one opposing end of the water chamber 52 while a
light detection circuit 64 is positioned at the other opposing end
of the water chamber 52. The light detection circuit 64 detects
light contained within the water in the water chamber 52 and sends
an output signal to a control unit (not shown) which determines the
water clarity or water opacity of the water contained in the water
chamber 52. End caps 78, 80 are positioned over transparent lenses
58, 60 to provide protection and wiring strain relief for light
source 62 and light detection circuit 64. The edges and backs of
transparent lenses 58, 60 may be blacked out to prevent ambient
light intrusion.
[0035] FIG. 5 is another exemplary embodiment of a water clarity
monitoring and control system of the present invention for
monitoring and controlling water clarity in a treatable body of
water. Water clarity monitoring and control system 100 includes a
body of water contained in a water containment apparatus 102 (such
as, for example, but not limited to, a pool, a spa, a water trough,
a water cistern, and a water tank), a light source 104 capable of
lighting up the water contained in the water containment apparatus
102, at least one transparent window 106 positioned within the
water containment apparatus 102, a light sensitive detection
circuit 108 positioned near at least one transparent window 106 in
the water containment apparatus 102, and a control unit 110 capable
of receiving an output signal from the light sensitive detection
circuit 108 for determining a clarity level of the body of water.
FIG. 5 also shows another transparent window 107 contained within
the water containment apparatus 102 where the Eight source 104 is
positioned on the outside of the water containment apparatus 102
near the transparent window 107.
[0036] System 100 also includes an optional local indicator 112
connected to the control unit 110 and positioned close to the body
of water for indicating the clarity level or opacity level of the
body of water, an optional remote indicator 114 connected to the
control unit 110 and positioned remotely from the body of water for
indicating the clarity level or opacity level of the body of water,
and an optional generator control system 116 for controlling output
to a chemical feeder generator or some other water quality control
mechanism that is capable of treating the body of water. The local
indicator 112 is particularly useful in the case of a closed spa or
a closed cistern where water quality cannot be monitored without
opening a lid or manway. The remote indicator 114 is particularly
useful when the body of water is far away from the entity or
individual that needs to monitor it. The remote indicator 114 can
be accomplished via a hardwired remote indicator or via a handheld
device using a computer or cellular phone network. The generator
control system 116 may operate one or more of the following:
filtration pumps, chemical feeders, chlorine or bromine generators,
ozone or UV systems, or some other water quality improvement device
or devices.
[0037] FIG. 6 is yet another embodiment of a water clarity
monitoring and control system of the present invention for
monitoring and controlling water clarity in a treatable body of
water having an apparatus for monitoring and controlling water
clarity integrated into an existing filtration system for a pool or
spa. In this exemplary embodiment of system 200, water from a pool,
spa, or other water containment apparatus flow through circulation
pump 246 and into a water chamber 222. After passing through the
circulation pump 246, the water is directed into the water inlet
224 of the water chamber 222. Light source 232 lights up water
contained in the water chamber 222 by shining light through
transparent lens or window 228. Light detection circuit 234 detects
light within the water through transparent lens or window 230 and
sends a signal to control unit 236 for determining a clarity level
or opacity level of the body of water.
[0038] Like system 100 shown in FIG. 5, system 200 also includes an
optional local indicator 212 connected to the control unit 236 and
positioned close to the pool, spa, or water containment apparatus
for indicating the clarity level or opacity level of the body of
water, an optional remote indicator 214 connected to the control
unit 236 and positioned remotely from pool, spa, or water
containment apparatus for indicating the clarity level or opacity
level of the body of water, and an optional generator control
system 216 for controlling output to a chemical feeder generator or
some other water quality control mechanism that is capable of
treating the body of water. The local indicator 212 is particularly
useful in the case of a closed spa or a closed cistern where water
quality cannot be monitored without opening a lid or manway. The
remote indicator 214 is particularly useful when the body of water
is far away from the entity or individual that needs to monitor it.
The remote indicator 214 can be accomplished via a hardwired remote
indicator or via a handheld device using a computer or cellular
phone network. The generator control system 216 may operate one or
more of the following: filtration pumps, chemical feeders, chlorine
or bromine generators, ozone or UV systems, or some other water
quality improvement device or devices.
[0039] In FIGS. 5 and 6, solid lines represent water connections
and water flow through those connections while dashed lines
represent electrical connections. The purpose of system 100 and
system 200 is to provide accurate readings and therefore requires
that determination or measurement of water clarity or water opacity
be performed at times of minimum interference. Items that might
interfere with accurate determinations/measurements include
operation of pumps or aerators, injection of chemicals, ambient
light sources, temperature variations, etc. System 100 and system
200 either do not make determinations/measurements at these times
or alternatively compensate for the variations in the
determinations/measurements. Advantages of water clarity monitoring
and control systems 100 and 200 of the present invention include 1)
providing quantitative water quality information at a low price, 2)
easy integration into new pool, spa, and water containment
apparatus and easy retrofitting into existing pool, spa, and water
containment apparatus, 3) ability to remotely indicate water
quality information, and 4) ability to easily use in feedback
control systems at low cost.
[0040] A flowchart showing an exemplary method 300 of the present
invention for determining and controlling water clarity in a pool
or spa is depicted in FIG. 7. In method 300, a water chamber is
provided having a water inlet, a water outlet, and a transparent
window in step 302. The water from a pool or spa is then directed
through the water chamber in step 304 via the water chamber inlet
and outlet. Next, in step 306, a light source is employed to light
up the water in the water chamber and in step 308 a light sensitive
detection circuit is positioned near the transparent window of the
water chamber. A control unit is employed to receive a signal from
the light sensitive detection unit to determine water clarity in
step 310. An evaluation is made in step 312 to determine if the
water clarity is at an acceptable level. If the water clarity is
not at an acceptable level, a signal is sent to a water treatment
system in step 314 to treat the water. Once treated, the water is
again directed through the water chamber in step 304 and steps 304
through 312 are continuously repeated to monitor and adjust the
water clarity. If the water clarity is at an acceptable level,
water continues to be directed through the water chamber in step
304 and steps 304 through 312 are continuously repeated to monitor
and adjust the water clarity.
[0041] The detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the
invention herein shows various exemplary embodiments and the best
modes, known to the inventor at this time, of the invention. These
exemplary embodiments and modes are described in sufficient detail
to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention and
are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or
configuration of the invention in any way. Rather, the following
disclosure is intended to teach both the implementation of the
exemplary embodiments and modes and any equivalent modes or
embodiments that are known or obvious to those reasonably skilled
in the art. Additionally, all included figures are non-limiting
illustrations of the exemplary embodiments and modes, which
similarly avail themselves to any equivalent modes or embodiments
that are known or obvious to those reasonably skilled in the
art.
[0042] Other combinations and/or modifications of structures,
arrangements, applications, proportions, elements, materials, or
components used in the practice of the instant invention, in
addition to those not specifically recited, can be varied or
otherwise particularly adapted to specific environments,
manufacturing specifications, design parameters, or other operating
requirements without departing from the scope of the instant
invention and are intended to be included in this disclosure.
* * * * *