CA2727878C - Portable spa controller interface - Google Patents
Portable spa controller interface Download PDFInfo
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- CA2727878C CA2727878C CA2727878A CA2727878A CA2727878C CA 2727878 C CA2727878 C CA 2727878C CA 2727878 A CA2727878 A CA 2727878A CA 2727878 A CA2727878 A CA 2727878A CA 2727878 C CA2727878 C CA 2727878C
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- spa
- computing device
- portable computing
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- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 46
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 claims description 8
- 238000012806 monitoring device Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000001413 cellular effect Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 29
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 15
- 239000000872 buffer Substances 0.000 description 9
- 230000008439 repair process Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000008520 organization Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000009428 plumbing Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000005086 pumping Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000008014 freezing Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000007710 freezing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000008236 heating water Substances 0.000 description 2
- 241000282668 Cebus Species 0.000 description 1
- 101100533558 Mus musculus Sipa1 gene Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 230000007123 defense Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000977 initiatory effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003068 static effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001225 therapeutic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05B—CONTROL OR REGULATING SYSTEMS IN GENERAL; FUNCTIONAL ELEMENTS OF SUCH SYSTEMS; MONITORING OR TESTING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SUCH SYSTEMS OR ELEMENTS
- G05B15/00—Systems controlled by a computer
- G05B15/02—Systems controlled by a computer electric
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
- A61H33/005—Electrical circuits therefor
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
- A61H33/0087—Therapeutic baths with agitated or circulated water
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
- A61H33/005—Electrical circuits therefor
- A61H2033/0058—Electrical circuits therefor controlled by the user
- A61H2033/0079—Electrical circuits therefor controlled by the user using remote control signal transmission devices, e.g. ultrasonic, infrared
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
- A61H2201/50—Control means thereof
- A61H2201/5007—Control means thereof computer controlled
- A61H2201/501—Control means thereof computer controlled connected to external computer devices or networks
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
- A61H2201/50—Control means thereof
- A61H2201/5007—Control means thereof computer controlled
- A61H2201/501—Control means thereof computer controlled connected to external computer devices or networks
- A61H2201/5012—Control means thereof computer controlled connected to external computer devices or networks using the internet
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
- A61H2201/50—Control means thereof
- A61H2201/5007—Control means thereof computer controlled
- A61H2201/501—Control means thereof computer controlled connected to external computer devices or networks
- A61H2201/5015—Control means thereof computer controlled connected to external computer devices or networks using specific interfaces or standards, e.g. USB, serial, parallel
Abstract
A portable computing device (and software for programming same) for use in monitoring a spa system is provided. The portable device is programmed for establishing a communication link with the spa system over a network and for exchanging data with the spa system over the communication link. At least some of the data exchanged conveys prior errors that occurred over time during operation of the spa system. The portable device is programmed to display on a display screen of the portable device a spa user interface. The spa user interface displays information fields conveying to a user of the portable computing device information derived from the data conveying prior errors that occurred over time during operation of the spa system. The spa user interface also displays a user actionable control for allowing the user of the portable computing device to enter a command for causing the information in the information fields to be updated.
Description
4, e PORTABLE SPA CONTROLLER INTERFACE
The present invention relates to spas, and in particular to devices for controlling spas.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A spa (also commonly known as a "hot tub") is a therapeutic bath in which all or part of a person's body is exposed to hot water, usually with forceful whirling currents. When located indoors and equipped with fill and drain features like a bathtub, the spa is typically referred to as a "whirlpool bath". Typically, the spa's hot water is generated when water contacts a heating element in a water circulating heating pipe system.
FIG. 1 shows prior art hot tub spa 1. Spa controller 52 is programmed to control the spa's components, such as the spa's water pumps 1P and 2P, air blower 3, ozonator 7, stereo 1A, and light 1L. In normal operation, water is pumped by water pump 1P through heater 5A
where it is heated by heating element 5B. The heated water then leaves heater 5A and enters spa tub 2 through jets 11. Water leaves spa tub 2 through drains 13 and the cycle is repeated.
A user of the spa can control the spa's components by pressing keys on keypad 8. Also, when an error occurs (such as a failure of water pump 2P), the source of the error is displayed on monitor 9. Currently, the spa user can only operate the spa only from within the spa or next to the spa by manipulating keypad 8. Also, currently, if there is a problem with the spa, a service technician or repairman must go to the location of the spa in order to troubleshoot and conduct repairs. The service technician needs to physically inspect the spa and its components and monitor 9.
The Internet The Internet is a large network of interconnected computers that is sometimes referred to as a Wide Area Network (WAN). Initially developed by the United States Defense Department, it has expanded worldwide to a great variety of uses. A significant percentage of the population in the United States and in many other countries currently has access to the Internet and its use is growing rapidly.
The Internet is used to advertise products. Many companies have WEB sites and encourage potential customers to "visit" these pages. Creation of WEB sites is a well-developed Internet business with a great many people and organizations offering to create WEB sites. In addition, many books are available at almost all large book stores providing instructions for individuals to create their own WEB sites. One such book is Build Your Own Web Site by Louis Kahn and Laura Logan, published by Microsoft Press with offices in Redmond, Washington. Most WEB sites are static, i.e.
there is no interaction between the user and the WEB site, However, there are many well-known techniques that permit the WEB site to be made active as discussed at page 144 ¨ 153 of the Kahn and Logan reference. These techniques permit an Internet server to change WEB pages as often as desired and they permit users to communicate with a processor associated with the WEB site.
The technology also exists to establish a Local Area Network (LAN). A LAN is a network of interconnected workstations sharing the resources of a single processor or server within a relatively small geographic area. Typically, this might be within the area of a small office building. A suite of application programs can be kept on the LAN
server. Users who frequently need an application can download it once and then run it from their local hard disk.
An Intranet is a network connecting an affiliated set of users (usually limited to a specific community of interest) using standard Internet protocols, esp. TCP/IP and HTTP.
Intranets, also known as internal Webs, are only logically "internal" to an organization.
Physically they can span the globe, as long as access is limited to the defined community of interest. To draw a comparison, the World Wide Web comprises all HTTP nodes on the public Internet. An internal web may comprise all HTTP nodes on a private network, such as an organization's LAN or WAN. If the organization is a corporation, the internal web is also a corporate web.
What is needed is a better device for controlling and monitoring spas.
The present invention relates to spas, and in particular to devices for controlling spas.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A spa (also commonly known as a "hot tub") is a therapeutic bath in which all or part of a person's body is exposed to hot water, usually with forceful whirling currents. When located indoors and equipped with fill and drain features like a bathtub, the spa is typically referred to as a "whirlpool bath". Typically, the spa's hot water is generated when water contacts a heating element in a water circulating heating pipe system.
FIG. 1 shows prior art hot tub spa 1. Spa controller 52 is programmed to control the spa's components, such as the spa's water pumps 1P and 2P, air blower 3, ozonator 7, stereo 1A, and light 1L. In normal operation, water is pumped by water pump 1P through heater 5A
where it is heated by heating element 5B. The heated water then leaves heater 5A and enters spa tub 2 through jets 11. Water leaves spa tub 2 through drains 13 and the cycle is repeated.
A user of the spa can control the spa's components by pressing keys on keypad 8. Also, when an error occurs (such as a failure of water pump 2P), the source of the error is displayed on monitor 9. Currently, the spa user can only operate the spa only from within the spa or next to the spa by manipulating keypad 8. Also, currently, if there is a problem with the spa, a service technician or repairman must go to the location of the spa in order to troubleshoot and conduct repairs. The service technician needs to physically inspect the spa and its components and monitor 9.
The Internet The Internet is a large network of interconnected computers that is sometimes referred to as a Wide Area Network (WAN). Initially developed by the United States Defense Department, it has expanded worldwide to a great variety of uses. A significant percentage of the population in the United States and in many other countries currently has access to the Internet and its use is growing rapidly.
The Internet is used to advertise products. Many companies have WEB sites and encourage potential customers to "visit" these pages. Creation of WEB sites is a well-developed Internet business with a great many people and organizations offering to create WEB sites. In addition, many books are available at almost all large book stores providing instructions for individuals to create their own WEB sites. One such book is Build Your Own Web Site by Louis Kahn and Laura Logan, published by Microsoft Press with offices in Redmond, Washington. Most WEB sites are static, i.e.
there is no interaction between the user and the WEB site, However, there are many well-known techniques that permit the WEB site to be made active as discussed at page 144 ¨ 153 of the Kahn and Logan reference. These techniques permit an Internet server to change WEB pages as often as desired and they permit users to communicate with a processor associated with the WEB site.
The technology also exists to establish a Local Area Network (LAN). A LAN is a network of interconnected workstations sharing the resources of a single processor or server within a relatively small geographic area. Typically, this might be within the area of a small office building. A suite of application programs can be kept on the LAN
server. Users who frequently need an application can download it once and then run it from their local hard disk.
An Intranet is a network connecting an affiliated set of users (usually limited to a specific community of interest) using standard Internet protocols, esp. TCP/IP and HTTP.
Intranets, also known as internal Webs, are only logically "internal" to an organization.
Physically they can span the globe, as long as access is limited to the defined community of interest. To draw a comparison, the World Wide Web comprises all HTTP nodes on the public Internet. An internal web may comprise all HTTP nodes on a private network, such as an organization's LAN or WAN. If the organization is a corporation, the internal web is also a corporate web.
What is needed is a better device for controlling and monitoring spas.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a first aspect, a remotely controlled and monitored spa is provided. An interface signal converter is electrically connected to a spa controller. A
remote computer can control the spa and monitor the status of the spa via a communications link between the remote computer and the signal converter. The signal converter converts communications signals transferred from the remote computer via the communications link and directs the converted signals to the spa controller. Also, the signal converter converts signals from the spa controller to be communicated to the remote computer via the communications link. In a preferred embodiment, the signal converter comprises an IR and an RS-485 transceiver. In a preferred embodiment, the communications link is the Internet.
In accordance with another aspect, the invention provides a spa control system, comprising a heating module suitable for heating water. The spa control system comprises at least one water pump suitable for pumping water through the heating module and a spa controller adapted for controlling the heating module and the water pump at least in part on the basis of software installed on the spa controller. The spa control system further comprises an interface signal converter in communication with the spa controller. The interface signal converter is operative for establishing a communications link with a remote computer and for receiving communication signals conveying software components over the communications link, the software components comprising updates to software already installed on the spa controller.
The interface signal converter is further operative for communicating the software components to the spa controller for updating the software installed on the spa controller. The interface signal converter converts communication signals received from the remote computer via the communications link and directs the converted signals to the spa controller. The interface signal converter also converts signals from the spa controller to be communicated to the remote computer via the communications link.
In accordance with yet another aspect, the invention provides a spa control system comprising a heating module suitable for heating water and at least one water pump suitable for pumping water through the heating module. The spa control system further comprises a spa controller adapted for controlling the heating module and the water pump at least in part on the basis of software installed on the spa controller and for generating a record of errors associated with at least one of the heating modules and the at least one water pump. The spa control system further comprises an interface signal converter in communication with the spa controller, the interface signal converter being operative for establishing a communications link with a remote computer, for receiving data comprising the record of errors generated at the spa controller and for transmitting a signal conveying the record of errors to the remote computer over the communications link. The interface signal converter converts communication signals transferred from the remote computer via the communications link and directs the converted signals to the spa controller. The interface signal converter also converts signals from the spa controller to be communicated to the remote computer via the communications link.
In accordance with a further aspect, the invention provides a spa control system comprising a heating module suitable for heating ware, at least one water pump suitable for pumping water through the heating module and a spa controller adapted for controlling the heating module and the water pump at least in part on the basis of software installed on the spa controller. The spa control system further comprises an interface signal converter in communication with the spa controller. The interface signal converter is operative for exchanging signals with a hand-portable remote computer over a wireless communications link, wherein the signals received from the hand-portable remote computer include software components comprising updates to software already installed on the spa controller. The interface signal converter is further operative for communicating the software components to the spa controller for updating the software installed on the spa controller.
In accordance with yet a further aspect, the invention provides a spa control system comprising an interface signal converter and a spa controller in communication with the interface signal converter. The spa controller is adapted for controlling a set of spa components at least in part on the basis of software installed on the spa controller. The interface signal converter is operative for establishing a communications link with a remote computer, for receiving information conveying software components over the communications link and for transmitting signals conveying the software components to the spa controller. The spa controller is operative for receiving signals conveying the software components from the interface signal converter and for updating software already installed on the spa controller at least in part on the basis of the software components received from the interface signal converter.
In accordance with a first aspect, a remotely controlled and monitored spa is provided. An interface signal converter is electrically connected to a spa controller. A
remote computer can control the spa and monitor the status of the spa via a communications link between the remote computer and the signal converter. The signal converter converts communications signals transferred from the remote computer via the communications link and directs the converted signals to the spa controller. Also, the signal converter converts signals from the spa controller to be communicated to the remote computer via the communications link. In a preferred embodiment, the signal converter comprises an IR and an RS-485 transceiver. In a preferred embodiment, the communications link is the Internet.
In accordance with another aspect, the invention provides a spa control system, comprising a heating module suitable for heating water. The spa control system comprises at least one water pump suitable for pumping water through the heating module and a spa controller adapted for controlling the heating module and the water pump at least in part on the basis of software installed on the spa controller. The spa control system further comprises an interface signal converter in communication with the spa controller. The interface signal converter is operative for establishing a communications link with a remote computer and for receiving communication signals conveying software components over the communications link, the software components comprising updates to software already installed on the spa controller.
The interface signal converter is further operative for communicating the software components to the spa controller for updating the software installed on the spa controller. The interface signal converter converts communication signals received from the remote computer via the communications link and directs the converted signals to the spa controller. The interface signal converter also converts signals from the spa controller to be communicated to the remote computer via the communications link.
In accordance with yet another aspect, the invention provides a spa control system comprising a heating module suitable for heating water and at least one water pump suitable for pumping water through the heating module. The spa control system further comprises a spa controller adapted for controlling the heating module and the water pump at least in part on the basis of software installed on the spa controller and for generating a record of errors associated with at least one of the heating modules and the at least one water pump. The spa control system further comprises an interface signal converter in communication with the spa controller, the interface signal converter being operative for establishing a communications link with a remote computer, for receiving data comprising the record of errors generated at the spa controller and for transmitting a signal conveying the record of errors to the remote computer over the communications link. The interface signal converter converts communication signals transferred from the remote computer via the communications link and directs the converted signals to the spa controller. The interface signal converter also converts signals from the spa controller to be communicated to the remote computer via the communications link.
In accordance with a further aspect, the invention provides a spa control system comprising a heating module suitable for heating ware, at least one water pump suitable for pumping water through the heating module and a spa controller adapted for controlling the heating module and the water pump at least in part on the basis of software installed on the spa controller. The spa control system further comprises an interface signal converter in communication with the spa controller. The interface signal converter is operative for exchanging signals with a hand-portable remote computer over a wireless communications link, wherein the signals received from the hand-portable remote computer include software components comprising updates to software already installed on the spa controller. The interface signal converter is further operative for communicating the software components to the spa controller for updating the software installed on the spa controller.
In accordance with yet a further aspect, the invention provides a spa control system comprising an interface signal converter and a spa controller in communication with the interface signal converter. The spa controller is adapted for controlling a set of spa components at least in part on the basis of software installed on the spa controller. The interface signal converter is operative for establishing a communications link with a remote computer, for receiving information conveying software components over the communications link and for transmitting signals conveying the software components to the spa controller. The spa controller is operative for receiving signals conveying the software components from the interface signal converter and for updating software already installed on the spa controller at least in part on the basis of the software components received from the interface signal converter.
In accordance with another aspect, the invention provides a portable computing device suitable for use in monitoring a spa system. The portable computing device is programmed for establishing a communication link with the spa system over a local area network (LAN). The portable computing device is also programmed exchanging data with the spa system over the communication link, at least some of the data conveying prior errors that occurred over time during operation of the spa system, the data conveying the prior errors being stored in an error log. The portable computer device is also programmed for displaying on a display screen of the portable computing device a spa user interface. The spa user interface displays information fields conveying to a user of the portable computing device information derived from the data in the error log and a user actionable control for allowing the user of the portable computing device to enter a command for causing the information in the information fields to be updated. The portable computing device is also programmed for causing the information in the information fields to be updated in response to an entry made by the user of the portable computing device using the user actionable control.
In accordance with another aspect, the invention provides a computer readable storage medium including a program element suitable for being executed by a processor in a portable computing device. The program element when executed by the processor implements a spa monitoring device suitable for use in monitoring a spa system. The program element configures the portable computing device for establishing a communication link with the spa system over a local area network (LAN). The program element also configures the portable computing device for exchanging data with the spa system over the communication link, at least some of the data conveying prior errors that occurred over time during operation the spa system, the data conveying the prior errors being stored in an error log. The program element also configures the portable computing device for displaying on a display screen of the portable computing device a spa user interface. The spa user interface displays information fields conveying to a user of the portable computing device information derived from the data in the error log and a user actionable control for allowing the user to enter a command for causing the information fields to be updated. The program element also configures the portable computing device for causing the information field to be updated in response to an entry made by the user of the portable computing device using the user actionable control.
In accordance with another aspect, the invention provides a computer readable storage medium including a program element suitable for being executed by a processor in a portable computing device. The program element when executed by the processor implements a spa monitoring device suitable for use in monitoring a spa system. The program element configures the portable computing device for establishing a communication link with the spa system over a local area network (LAN). The program element also configures the portable computing device for exchanging data with the spa system over the communication link, at least some of the data conveying prior errors that occurred over time during operation the spa system, the data conveying the prior errors being stored in an error log. The program element also configures the portable computing device for displaying on a display screen of the portable computing device a spa user interface. The spa user interface displays information fields conveying to a user of the portable computing device information derived from the data in the error log and a user actionable control for allowing the user to enter a command for causing the information fields to be updated. The program element also configures the portable computing device for causing the information field to be updated in response to an entry made by the user of the portable computing device using the user actionable control.
In accordance with another aspect, the invention provides a portable computing device suitable for use in monitoring a spa system. The portable computing device is programmed for establishing a communication link with the spa system over a network. The portable computing device is also programmed for exchanging data with the spa system over the communication link, at least some of the data conveys prior errors that occurred over time during the operation of the spa system. The portable computing device is also programmed for displaying on a display screen of the portable computing device a spa user interface. The spa user interface displays information fields conveying to a user of the portable computer device information derived from the data conveying the prior errors that occurred over time and a user actionable control for allowing the user of the portable computing device to enter a command for causing the information fields to be updated. The portable computing device is also programmed for causing the information fields to be updated in response to an entry made by the user of the portable computing device using the user actionable control.
In accordance with a further aspect, the invention provides a computer readable storage medium including a program element suitable for being executed by a processor in a portable computing device. The program element when executed by the processor implements a spa monitoring device suitable for use in monitoring a spa system. The program element configures the portable computing device for establishing a communication link with the spa system over a network. The program element also configures the portable computing device for exchanging data with the spa system over the communication link, at least some of the data conveying prior errors that occurred over time during operation of the spa system. The program element also configures the portable computing device for displaying on a display screen of the portable computing device a spa user interface. The spa user interface displays information fields conveying to the user of the portable computing device information derived from the data conveying the prior errors that occurred over time and a user actionable control for allowing the user of the portable computing device to enter a command for causing the information fields to be updated. The program element also configures the portable computing device for causing the information field to be updated in response to an entry made by the user of the portable computing device using the user actionable control.
5a BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 shows a prior art spa.
FIG. 2 shows a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3A and 3B show other preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 4 shows a preferred signal converter.
FIG. 5A shows another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5B shows another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 shows a preferred owner page.
FIG. 7 shows another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 shows another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 9 and 10 show other preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 11 shows a preferred spa manufacturer page.
FIG. 12 shows a preferred spa controller manufacturer page.
FIG. 13 shows another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 14 shows another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
5b DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODBIENTS
FIG. 2 shows a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Signal converter 50 is connected to spa controller 53. This allows commands and data to be sent to spa controller 50 from remote computer 200 and commands and data from spa controller 53 to be transferred to remote computer 200. Remote computer 200 may be connected to signal converter 50 via a wire or through wireless technology, (i.e., RF
signal, IR signal or laser communication). Signal converter 50 converts the incoming signal to a protocol that is understood by the CPU of spa controller 53. In a preferred embodiment, the signal is converted to I2C. I2C is short for Inter-IC, a type of bus designed in the early 1980s, which is used to connect integrated circuits (ICs). I2C is a multi-master bus, which means that multiple chips can be connected to the same bus and each one can act as a master by initiating a data transfer.
Interface Signal Converter As shown in FIG. 3B, signal converter 50 can be used to connect user computer 51 or portable user computer 52 to spa controller 53 so that spa components can be remotely monitored and controlled. In a preferred embodiment, user computer 52 is a laptop computer. In another preferred embodiment, user computer 52 is a personal digital assistant (PDA). PDA's are portable computers that are usually smaller in size and less expensive than a normal laptop computer. A preferred PDA is a Palm Pilot. In a preferred embodiment, signal converter 50 is sold as a separate item that can be inserted as needed into spa controller 53, as shown in FIG. 3A.
The basic function of signal converter 50 is to translate and route all signals from user computer 51 or portable user computer 52 to a signal that is usable with spa controller 53.
In a preferred embodiment, an RS-485 signal is transmitted from user computer 51 and an infrared (IR) signal is transmitted from portable user computer 52. Signal converter 50 is capable of converting both signals to I2C for utilization with spa controller 53.
Likewise, in the preferred embodiment, I2C signals coming from spa controller 53 can be converted by signal converter 50 to an RS-485 signal that can be used by user computer 51 or an ER signal that can be used by portable user computer 52.
In accordance with a further aspect, the invention provides a computer readable storage medium including a program element suitable for being executed by a processor in a portable computing device. The program element when executed by the processor implements a spa monitoring device suitable for use in monitoring a spa system. The program element configures the portable computing device for establishing a communication link with the spa system over a network. The program element also configures the portable computing device for exchanging data with the spa system over the communication link, at least some of the data conveying prior errors that occurred over time during operation of the spa system. The program element also configures the portable computing device for displaying on a display screen of the portable computing device a spa user interface. The spa user interface displays information fields conveying to the user of the portable computing device information derived from the data conveying the prior errors that occurred over time and a user actionable control for allowing the user of the portable computing device to enter a command for causing the information fields to be updated. The program element also configures the portable computing device for causing the information field to be updated in response to an entry made by the user of the portable computing device using the user actionable control.
5a BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 shows a prior art spa.
FIG. 2 shows a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3A and 3B show other preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 4 shows a preferred signal converter.
FIG. 5A shows another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5B shows another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 shows a preferred owner page.
FIG. 7 shows another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 shows another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 9 and 10 show other preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 11 shows a preferred spa manufacturer page.
FIG. 12 shows a preferred spa controller manufacturer page.
FIG. 13 shows another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 14 shows another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
5b DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODBIENTS
FIG. 2 shows a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Signal converter 50 is connected to spa controller 53. This allows commands and data to be sent to spa controller 50 from remote computer 200 and commands and data from spa controller 53 to be transferred to remote computer 200. Remote computer 200 may be connected to signal converter 50 via a wire or through wireless technology, (i.e., RF
signal, IR signal or laser communication). Signal converter 50 converts the incoming signal to a protocol that is understood by the CPU of spa controller 53. In a preferred embodiment, the signal is converted to I2C. I2C is short for Inter-IC, a type of bus designed in the early 1980s, which is used to connect integrated circuits (ICs). I2C is a multi-master bus, which means that multiple chips can be connected to the same bus and each one can act as a master by initiating a data transfer.
Interface Signal Converter As shown in FIG. 3B, signal converter 50 can be used to connect user computer 51 or portable user computer 52 to spa controller 53 so that spa components can be remotely monitored and controlled. In a preferred embodiment, user computer 52 is a laptop computer. In another preferred embodiment, user computer 52 is a personal digital assistant (PDA). PDA's are portable computers that are usually smaller in size and less expensive than a normal laptop computer. A preferred PDA is a Palm Pilot. In a preferred embodiment, signal converter 50 is sold as a separate item that can be inserted as needed into spa controller 53, as shown in FIG. 3A.
The basic function of signal converter 50 is to translate and route all signals from user computer 51 or portable user computer 52 to a signal that is usable with spa controller 53.
In a preferred embodiment, an RS-485 signal is transmitted from user computer 51 and an infrared (IR) signal is transmitted from portable user computer 52. Signal converter 50 is capable of converting both signals to I2C for utilization with spa controller 53.
Likewise, in the preferred embodiment, I2C signals coming from spa controller 53 can be converted by signal converter 50 to an RS-485 signal that can be used by user computer 51 or an ER signal that can be used by portable user computer 52.
Infrared Interface As shown in FIG. 4, signal converter 50 receives an 1R signal at IR
transceiver 60.
Modulator 62 then demodulates the signal. The digital signal leaving modulator 62 is then routed to buffer/multiplexer 64, then to CPU 70, and then to spa controller 53 on the 12C link.
Likewise, in transmission an I2C signal is received at CPU 70 from spa controller 53.
The digital signal is modulated at modulator 62. The modulated signal is then transmitted as IR light by IR transceiver 60.
RS-485 Interface The RS-485 interface is used to serially transmit or receive signals through wire connectivity. In a preferred embodiment, this interface is used with a personal computer, such as user computer 51 as shown in FIG. 3B. Since the RS-485 signal from user computer 51 travels via wire, user computer 51 can be located much further away from signal converter 50 than can portable computer 52, which utilizes an IR.
interface.
An RS-485 differential serial signal is received by RS-485 transceiver 72 and converted to digital. The signal is then routed to buffer/multiplexer 74, then to CPU
70.
In transmission, a digital signal leaves CPU 70 and is converted to a differential RS-485 serial signal by RS-485 transceiver 72. This signal can then be used over long distances depending on the quality of wire connecting to user computer 51.
Buffer/Multiplexer Since the preferred CPU 70 has only one UART 76 (UART 76 is a serial transmitter/receiver), the received signals coming into UART 76 must be multiplexed to avoid data "collisions" from each source. This is achieved by buffer/multiplexers 64 and 74, which are under the control of CPU 70. The CPU decides which "channel" it wants to listen to by selecting the proper lines 74A or MA off the buffers 74 and 64.
transceiver 60.
Modulator 62 then demodulates the signal. The digital signal leaving modulator 62 is then routed to buffer/multiplexer 64, then to CPU 70, and then to spa controller 53 on the 12C link.
Likewise, in transmission an I2C signal is received at CPU 70 from spa controller 53.
The digital signal is modulated at modulator 62. The modulated signal is then transmitted as IR light by IR transceiver 60.
RS-485 Interface The RS-485 interface is used to serially transmit or receive signals through wire connectivity. In a preferred embodiment, this interface is used with a personal computer, such as user computer 51 as shown in FIG. 3B. Since the RS-485 signal from user computer 51 travels via wire, user computer 51 can be located much further away from signal converter 50 than can portable computer 52, which utilizes an IR.
interface.
An RS-485 differential serial signal is received by RS-485 transceiver 72 and converted to digital. The signal is then routed to buffer/multiplexer 74, then to CPU
70.
In transmission, a digital signal leaves CPU 70 and is converted to a differential RS-485 serial signal by RS-485 transceiver 72. This signal can then be used over long distances depending on the quality of wire connecting to user computer 51.
Buffer/Multiplexer Since the preferred CPU 70 has only one UART 76 (UART 76 is a serial transmitter/receiver), the received signals coming into UART 76 must be multiplexed to avoid data "collisions" from each source. This is achieved by buffer/multiplexers 64 and 74, which are under the control of CPU 70. The CPU decides which "channel" it wants to listen to by selecting the proper lines 74A or MA off the buffers 74 and 64.
CPU
As stated above, CPU 70 controls what input source it listens to (RS485 or IR) and it transmits the received data to spa controller 53 as an I2C signal over the I2C
link. In a preferred embodiment CPU 70 is an 8 bits CMOS flash microcontroller, part no.
PIC16F876 manufactured by Microchip Technology, Inc. with offices in Chandler, AZ.
To decide which source to listen to (i.e., RS-485 or IR), CPU 70 disables both buffers 74 and 64. It then listens to serial lines 78 and 80 on ports R84 and R85. As soon as a signal is detected on one or the other of serial lines 78 or 80, CPU 70 transmits a corresponding signal 82 or 84 to enable either buffer 74 or buffer 64, respectively. Once the appropriate buffer has been enabled, the signal is then allowed to flow to UART 76.
Once the signal is received at CPU 70, CPU 70 translates it to I2C and sends it over the I2C link in spa controller 53. Whatever command that was coded into the original message can then be carried out by spa controller 53. For example, a command might be to start a water pump or increase the temperature of the spa.
In a similar fashion, CPU 70 can receive serial data from spa controller 53 and transmit it over the serial IR or RS-485 links. In this case, serial data is muted to both IR transceiver 60 and RS485 transceiver 72, but only one will actually transmit, depending on the states of the RS-485 enabling line 86 and ER enabling line 88. RS-485 enabling line 86 and IR
enabling line 88 allow the user to choose whether data is transmitted over IR
or RS-485.
Programmability of Remote Computer As shown in FIG. 2, in a preferred embodiment remote computer 200 is capable of being programmed to meet the needs of the entity that is operating remote computer 200. In the ,case of the present invention, some of the different entities that could potentially operate remote computer 200 are the spa owner, the dealer that sold the spa, a service technician servicing the spa, the spa manufacturer, and the manufacturer of the spa controller for the spa.
As stated above, CPU 70 controls what input source it listens to (RS485 or IR) and it transmits the received data to spa controller 53 as an I2C signal over the I2C
link. In a preferred embodiment CPU 70 is an 8 bits CMOS flash microcontroller, part no.
PIC16F876 manufactured by Microchip Technology, Inc. with offices in Chandler, AZ.
To decide which source to listen to (i.e., RS-485 or IR), CPU 70 disables both buffers 74 and 64. It then listens to serial lines 78 and 80 on ports R84 and R85. As soon as a signal is detected on one or the other of serial lines 78 or 80, CPU 70 transmits a corresponding signal 82 or 84 to enable either buffer 74 or buffer 64, respectively. Once the appropriate buffer has been enabled, the signal is then allowed to flow to UART 76.
Once the signal is received at CPU 70, CPU 70 translates it to I2C and sends it over the I2C link in spa controller 53. Whatever command that was coded into the original message can then be carried out by spa controller 53. For example, a command might be to start a water pump or increase the temperature of the spa.
In a similar fashion, CPU 70 can receive serial data from spa controller 53 and transmit it over the serial IR or RS-485 links. In this case, serial data is muted to both IR transceiver 60 and RS485 transceiver 72, but only one will actually transmit, depending on the states of the RS-485 enabling line 86 and ER enabling line 88. RS-485 enabling line 86 and IR
enabling line 88 allow the user to choose whether data is transmitted over IR
or RS-485.
Programmability of Remote Computer As shown in FIG. 2, in a preferred embodiment remote computer 200 is capable of being programmed to meet the needs of the entity that is operating remote computer 200. In the ,case of the present invention, some of the different entities that could potentially operate remote computer 200 are the spa owner, the dealer that sold the spa, a service technician servicing the spa, the spa manufacturer, and the manufacturer of the spa controller for the spa.
Spa Owner A preferred method by which a spa owner can utilize the present invention is illustrated by FIG. 5A. The spa owner can connect his personal home computer (first owner computer 101) to signal converter 50 via an RS-485 wire connection. He can then control the spa remotely from first owner computer 101. In the preferred embodiment, first owner computer 101 is programmed to include an owner page (which appears on the screen of first owner computer 101) that enables the spa owner to interpret data transmitted to it from spa controller 53 via the RS-485 line and transmit commands back to spa controller 53.
A preferred owner page is shown in FIG. 6. For example, some of the commands illustrated by FIG. 2 show that the owner has indicated that he wants water pump IP
(FIG. 1) to be "on" at high speed. He wants water pump 2 to be "off'. He wants air blower 3 "on" at medium speed. He wants to spa temperature to be 102 F. He wants water pumps and air blower 3 to run for slightly over 40 minutes before they automatically turn off. Data indications displayed on the owner page indicate that the current spa tub temperature is 98 F. Heating element 5 is off. The error on display is that the pressure switch is open. There is a low danger of plumbing freeze.
The information is updated by clicking on update info button 110.
The owner page shown in FIG. 6 is just one preferred embodiment. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that it is possible to reprogram the owner page to transmit a variety of different commands as well as monitor a variety of different spa conditions.
Spa Owner Controlling the Spa from a Remote Location via the Internet FIG. 5A shows a preferred embodiment in which the spa owner can log on to the Internet via first owner computer 101. He can then travel to another location and log on to the Internet via second owner computer 102. As with first owner computer 101, second owner computer 102 is also programmed to receive spa data and transmit commands for spa controller 53.
A preferred owner page is shown in FIG. 6. For example, some of the commands illustrated by FIG. 2 show that the owner has indicated that he wants water pump IP
(FIG. 1) to be "on" at high speed. He wants water pump 2 to be "off'. He wants air blower 3 "on" at medium speed. He wants to spa temperature to be 102 F. He wants water pumps and air blower 3 to run for slightly over 40 minutes before they automatically turn off. Data indications displayed on the owner page indicate that the current spa tub temperature is 98 F. Heating element 5 is off. The error on display is that the pressure switch is open. There is a low danger of plumbing freeze.
The information is updated by clicking on update info button 110.
The owner page shown in FIG. 6 is just one preferred embodiment. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that it is possible to reprogram the owner page to transmit a variety of different commands as well as monitor a variety of different spa conditions.
Spa Owner Controlling the Spa from a Remote Location via the Internet FIG. 5A shows a preferred embodiment in which the spa owner can log on to the Internet via first owner computer 101. He can then travel to another location and log on to the Internet via second owner computer 102. As with first owner computer 101, second owner computer 102 is also programmed to receive spa data and transmit commands for spa controller 53.
An example of a practical application of this embodiment can be found by the scenario in which the spa owner is heading home from his office that is approximately a 30 minute drive away. Before he leaves the office, the spa owner can log onto the Internet and go to the web site stored at server computer 201. He will then see an owner page similar to the one shown in FIG, 6. He will then upload his commands to server computer 201 to start the water pumps IP and 2P, air blower 3 and heat the spa to 102 V. His commands will then be downloaded from server computer 201 via the Internet to first owner computer 101. Then, they will travel from first owner computer 101 to signal converter 50 via the RS-485 line. Inside signal converter 50, the commands will be converted to an protocol for spa controller 53 usage.
Spa Dealer A spa dealer is the entity that sells the spa to the spa owner. Utilizing the present invention, the spa dealer can continue to monitor the condition of the spa and provide technical support for the spa after the spa is sold to the spa owner.
A preferred embodiment is shown in FIG. 7. In FIG. 7, a first dealer has sold a spa to an owner who has owner computer Cl and has sold a spa to an owner who has owner computer C2. A second dealer has sold a spa to an owner who has owner computer C3.
After the spa owners have purchased their spas, they configure their computers so that they can remotely monitor and control their spas, as explained above under the heading "Spa Owner".
In the preferred embodiment, owner computers Cl¨ C3 are programmed to transmit data via the Internet. First dealer computer D1 is programmed to receive data from the spas that the first dealer sold. Therefore, owner computer Cl and owner computer C2 will transmit spa data that will be monitored by first dealer computer DI. Likewise owner computer C3 will transmit spa data that will be monitored by second dealer computer D2.
In a preferred embodiment, owner computers Cl ¨ C3 are always logged onto the Internet, via either a cable modem or a DSL connection. Automatically per a given time period (for example, once every hour) owner computers Cl ¨ C3 are programmed to retrieve from their spa controllers data reporting the status of the spa.
Then, this data is automatically transmitted via the Internet to the dealer that sold the spa owner his spa. In this fashion, the dealer is able to continuously monitor the condition of the spa.
A preferred dealer screen is shown in FIG. 8. In block 150, the dealer can monitor the number of times and error has occurred. In block 151, the dealer can monitor when an error has occurred. The dealer can reset the error log by clicking on button 156. In block 152, the dealer can monitor the current software installed in spa controller 53. If there is a software update, the dealer can download this info by clicking on button 153. The dealer can also monitor the number of times the spa has been reset and the number of hours since the spa's last service.
By monitoring the condition of the spa and the number of times an error may have occurred, the dealer can alert the owner to a problem even before the owner knows about.
Or, if the owner contacts the dealer with a problem, the dealer has access to valuable data that he could use to troubleshoot the problem. Utilizing this embodiment, the dealer may be able to tell the owner how to correct a problem without having to send a service technician to the owner's location.
The dealer page shown in FIG. 3 is just one embodiment. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that it is possible to reprogram the dealer page to transmit a variety of different commands as well as monitor a variety of different spa conditions.
Service Technician In another preferred embodiment, a service technician can utilize the present invention to more effectively troubleshoot and repair a spa. This preferred embodiment is described by reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B. in this preferred embodiment, the spa owner has purchased a spa with spa controller 53; however, he opted to not purchase signal converter 50. To help troubleshoot and repair the spa, a service technician can bring with him portable user computer 52 with IR transceiver 52A and signal converter 50.
As shown in FIG 3A, the service technician first inserts signal converter 50 into spa controller 53. In a preferred embodiment, interface signal converter 50 fits snuggly into an easily accessible cavity in spa controller 53. Then, utilizing IR
transceiver 52A with portable user computer 52, the service technician is able to download from spa controller 53 to portable user computer 52 data that includes a record of errors that may have occurred during the operational life of the spa, as shown in FIG. 3B. Portable user computer 52 is programmed to display this data in a format usefiil to the service technician. A preferred display is similar to the dealer display discussed above and shown in FIG. 8. By analysis of this data, the service technician will be able to more effective determine the required solution to repair the spa.
The Spa Manufacturer In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the spa manufacturer can utilize the present invention to configure the spa controller and the spa's components prior to the spa being transferred to the dealer. The user may later change some of these parameters, if he so desires. As shown in FIG. 9, spa manufacturer computer 160 is connected via the RS-485 line to signal converter 50, which is connected to spa controller 53. In the preferred embodiment, the spa components are installed and connected to spa controller 53. Spa manufacturer computer 160 is programmed to be able to transmit commands to and received data from spa controller 53. A preferred spa manufacturer screen is shown in FIG. 11. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the spa manufacturer has configured water pump IP to operate at "2-Speed" and has set it to operate at 6 amps for low speed and 11 amps for high speed.. The spa manufacturer has configured air blower 3 (FIG. 1) to operate at "3-Speed" and at 6 amps. The heater element is set at 23 amps.
The spa manufacturer page shown in FIG. 11 is just one embodiment. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that it is possible to reprogram the spa manufacturer page to transmit a variety of different commands as well as monitor a variety of different spa conditions.
The Manufacturer of the Spa Controller The spa controller is a very important part of the spa. Its CPU is used to control the other components of the spa, such as the water pumps, the air blower and the heater.
For safety considerations, the manufacturer of the spa controller may want to set parameters in spa controller 53 that cannot be modified by the other entities interfacing with the spa (i.e., spa manufacturer, spa dealer, service technician and spa owner).
FIG. 10 shows an embodiment wherein manufacturer of spa controller computer 165 is connected utilizing the present invention to spa controller 53. FIG. 12 shows a preferred spa controller manufacturer page. Here the spa controller manufacturer has set the minimum temperature inside the spa tub at 59 F. Any temperature lower than this could result in damage to spa's plumbing as a result of freezing because a temperature of lower than 59 F at temperature sensor 12 (FIG. 2) is a strong indication that the water in the spa's plumbing is near the freezing point. He has set the maximum temperature inside the spa at 104 F in accordance with industry regulations. Also, he has set the regulation temperature threshold at 112 F. Also, the manufacturer of the spa controller has indicated which keys on the keypad and IR remote are to control each spa component. For example, key #1 is set to control water pump 1P.
The manufacturer of the spa controller page shown in FIG. 12 is just one embodiment. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that it is possible to reprogram the manufacturer of the spa controller page to transmit a variety of different commands as well as a variety of different spa conditions.
Although the above-preferred embodiments have been described with specificity, persons skilled in this art will recognize that many changes to the specific embodiments disclosed above could be made. Although the above preferred embodiments are discussed utilizing an RS-485 interface signal converter for communicating between spa controller 53 and remote computers, one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that other electronic data interface signal converters could be used (such as, RS-232, RS-422 and RS-423, X10, Echelon, CEBus, Bluetooth and other protocol RF). Also, although the above embodiments discussed signal converter 50 used in conjunction with IR signals, it could be configured to work with other means of wireless communication signals, such as RF and laser. Also, one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that it would be possible to configure signal converter 50 to convert three or more signals. For example, signal converter 50 could be configured to convert RS-485, IR and RF to I2C for utilization by spa controller 53. Also, although the above preferred embodiments showed signal converter 50 as a separate attachment to spa controller 53, it would be possible to sell spa controller 53 with signal converter 50 rigidly attached to it as one unit. Although preferred embodiments discussed utilizing the present invention in conjunction with the Internet, it would also be possible to utilize the present invention in conjunction with another computer network, such as a LAN or an Intranet.
Although the above embodiments were discussed showing spa controller 53 utilizing an I2C
link, the present invention would work with other types of spa controllers configured to operate utilizing links other than I2C links. Some other possible links are SPI
(Serial Peripheral Interface) and UART or parallel interface links. In these embodiments the signal converter would need to be able to transfer communication signals from the remote computer to a signal utilized by the spa controller's link and the signals utilized by the spa controller's link to communication signals directed towards the remote computer. Also, although FIG. 5A shows second owner computer 102 connected to first owner computer 101 via the Internet, it would also be possible to configure interface signal converter 50 to be able to receive communication signals directly from remote owner compute 103 via the Internet, as shown in FIG. 5B. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that it is possible to configure the spa so that dedicated remote spa computer 300 (FIG. 13) is located adjacent to the spa. In a preferred embodiment, spa computer 300 would be located underneath the spa skirt. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13, spa computer 300 is connected to owner computer 301 via a LAN. Owner computer 301 is then connected to the Internet. FIG. 14 shows another preferred embodiment in which spa computer 300 is connected directly to the Internet. In addition to sending commands and receiving data from spa controller 53, spa computer 300 could be used to log onto the Internet, send email, and supply audio and video functionality.
Also one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that there are other types of portable remote computers that could be used with the present invention other than laptop computers and PDA's. For example, a cellular phone could be used as the remote computer to send commands and receive data from spa controller 53.
Spa Dealer A spa dealer is the entity that sells the spa to the spa owner. Utilizing the present invention, the spa dealer can continue to monitor the condition of the spa and provide technical support for the spa after the spa is sold to the spa owner.
A preferred embodiment is shown in FIG. 7. In FIG. 7, a first dealer has sold a spa to an owner who has owner computer Cl and has sold a spa to an owner who has owner computer C2. A second dealer has sold a spa to an owner who has owner computer C3.
After the spa owners have purchased their spas, they configure their computers so that they can remotely monitor and control their spas, as explained above under the heading "Spa Owner".
In the preferred embodiment, owner computers Cl¨ C3 are programmed to transmit data via the Internet. First dealer computer D1 is programmed to receive data from the spas that the first dealer sold. Therefore, owner computer Cl and owner computer C2 will transmit spa data that will be monitored by first dealer computer DI. Likewise owner computer C3 will transmit spa data that will be monitored by second dealer computer D2.
In a preferred embodiment, owner computers Cl ¨ C3 are always logged onto the Internet, via either a cable modem or a DSL connection. Automatically per a given time period (for example, once every hour) owner computers Cl ¨ C3 are programmed to retrieve from their spa controllers data reporting the status of the spa.
Then, this data is automatically transmitted via the Internet to the dealer that sold the spa owner his spa. In this fashion, the dealer is able to continuously monitor the condition of the spa.
A preferred dealer screen is shown in FIG. 8. In block 150, the dealer can monitor the number of times and error has occurred. In block 151, the dealer can monitor when an error has occurred. The dealer can reset the error log by clicking on button 156. In block 152, the dealer can monitor the current software installed in spa controller 53. If there is a software update, the dealer can download this info by clicking on button 153. The dealer can also monitor the number of times the spa has been reset and the number of hours since the spa's last service.
By monitoring the condition of the spa and the number of times an error may have occurred, the dealer can alert the owner to a problem even before the owner knows about.
Or, if the owner contacts the dealer with a problem, the dealer has access to valuable data that he could use to troubleshoot the problem. Utilizing this embodiment, the dealer may be able to tell the owner how to correct a problem without having to send a service technician to the owner's location.
The dealer page shown in FIG. 3 is just one embodiment. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that it is possible to reprogram the dealer page to transmit a variety of different commands as well as monitor a variety of different spa conditions.
Service Technician In another preferred embodiment, a service technician can utilize the present invention to more effectively troubleshoot and repair a spa. This preferred embodiment is described by reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B. in this preferred embodiment, the spa owner has purchased a spa with spa controller 53; however, he opted to not purchase signal converter 50. To help troubleshoot and repair the spa, a service technician can bring with him portable user computer 52 with IR transceiver 52A and signal converter 50.
As shown in FIG 3A, the service technician first inserts signal converter 50 into spa controller 53. In a preferred embodiment, interface signal converter 50 fits snuggly into an easily accessible cavity in spa controller 53. Then, utilizing IR
transceiver 52A with portable user computer 52, the service technician is able to download from spa controller 53 to portable user computer 52 data that includes a record of errors that may have occurred during the operational life of the spa, as shown in FIG. 3B. Portable user computer 52 is programmed to display this data in a format usefiil to the service technician. A preferred display is similar to the dealer display discussed above and shown in FIG. 8. By analysis of this data, the service technician will be able to more effective determine the required solution to repair the spa.
The Spa Manufacturer In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the spa manufacturer can utilize the present invention to configure the spa controller and the spa's components prior to the spa being transferred to the dealer. The user may later change some of these parameters, if he so desires. As shown in FIG. 9, spa manufacturer computer 160 is connected via the RS-485 line to signal converter 50, which is connected to spa controller 53. In the preferred embodiment, the spa components are installed and connected to spa controller 53. Spa manufacturer computer 160 is programmed to be able to transmit commands to and received data from spa controller 53. A preferred spa manufacturer screen is shown in FIG. 11. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the spa manufacturer has configured water pump IP to operate at "2-Speed" and has set it to operate at 6 amps for low speed and 11 amps for high speed.. The spa manufacturer has configured air blower 3 (FIG. 1) to operate at "3-Speed" and at 6 amps. The heater element is set at 23 amps.
The spa manufacturer page shown in FIG. 11 is just one embodiment. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that it is possible to reprogram the spa manufacturer page to transmit a variety of different commands as well as monitor a variety of different spa conditions.
The Manufacturer of the Spa Controller The spa controller is a very important part of the spa. Its CPU is used to control the other components of the spa, such as the water pumps, the air blower and the heater.
For safety considerations, the manufacturer of the spa controller may want to set parameters in spa controller 53 that cannot be modified by the other entities interfacing with the spa (i.e., spa manufacturer, spa dealer, service technician and spa owner).
FIG. 10 shows an embodiment wherein manufacturer of spa controller computer 165 is connected utilizing the present invention to spa controller 53. FIG. 12 shows a preferred spa controller manufacturer page. Here the spa controller manufacturer has set the minimum temperature inside the spa tub at 59 F. Any temperature lower than this could result in damage to spa's plumbing as a result of freezing because a temperature of lower than 59 F at temperature sensor 12 (FIG. 2) is a strong indication that the water in the spa's plumbing is near the freezing point. He has set the maximum temperature inside the spa at 104 F in accordance with industry regulations. Also, he has set the regulation temperature threshold at 112 F. Also, the manufacturer of the spa controller has indicated which keys on the keypad and IR remote are to control each spa component. For example, key #1 is set to control water pump 1P.
The manufacturer of the spa controller page shown in FIG. 12 is just one embodiment. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that it is possible to reprogram the manufacturer of the spa controller page to transmit a variety of different commands as well as a variety of different spa conditions.
Although the above-preferred embodiments have been described with specificity, persons skilled in this art will recognize that many changes to the specific embodiments disclosed above could be made. Although the above preferred embodiments are discussed utilizing an RS-485 interface signal converter for communicating between spa controller 53 and remote computers, one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that other electronic data interface signal converters could be used (such as, RS-232, RS-422 and RS-423, X10, Echelon, CEBus, Bluetooth and other protocol RF). Also, although the above embodiments discussed signal converter 50 used in conjunction with IR signals, it could be configured to work with other means of wireless communication signals, such as RF and laser. Also, one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that it would be possible to configure signal converter 50 to convert three or more signals. For example, signal converter 50 could be configured to convert RS-485, IR and RF to I2C for utilization by spa controller 53. Also, although the above preferred embodiments showed signal converter 50 as a separate attachment to spa controller 53, it would be possible to sell spa controller 53 with signal converter 50 rigidly attached to it as one unit. Although preferred embodiments discussed utilizing the present invention in conjunction with the Internet, it would also be possible to utilize the present invention in conjunction with another computer network, such as a LAN or an Intranet.
Although the above embodiments were discussed showing spa controller 53 utilizing an I2C
link, the present invention would work with other types of spa controllers configured to operate utilizing links other than I2C links. Some other possible links are SPI
(Serial Peripheral Interface) and UART or parallel interface links. In these embodiments the signal converter would need to be able to transfer communication signals from the remote computer to a signal utilized by the spa controller's link and the signals utilized by the spa controller's link to communication signals directed towards the remote computer. Also, although FIG. 5A shows second owner computer 102 connected to first owner computer 101 via the Internet, it would also be possible to configure interface signal converter 50 to be able to receive communication signals directly from remote owner compute 103 via the Internet, as shown in FIG. 5B. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that it is possible to configure the spa so that dedicated remote spa computer 300 (FIG. 13) is located adjacent to the spa. In a preferred embodiment, spa computer 300 would be located underneath the spa skirt. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13, spa computer 300 is connected to owner computer 301 via a LAN. Owner computer 301 is then connected to the Internet. FIG. 14 shows another preferred embodiment in which spa computer 300 is connected directly to the Internet. In addition to sending commands and receiving data from spa controller 53, spa computer 300 could be used to log onto the Internet, send email, and supply audio and video functionality.
Also one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that there are other types of portable remote computers that could be used with the present invention other than laptop computers and PDA's. For example, a cellular phone could be used as the remote computer to send commands and receive data from spa controller 53.
Claims (27)
1. A portable computing device suitable for use in monitoring a spa system, said portable computing device being programmed for:
a. establishing a communication link with the spa system over a local area network (LAN);
b. exchanging data with the spa system over said communication link, at least some of said data conveying prior errors that occurred over time during operation of the spa system, the data conveying the prior errors being stored in an error log;
c. displaying on a display screen of the portable computing device a spa user interface, the spa user interface displaying:
i. information fields conveying to a user of the portable computing device information derived from the data in the error log; and ii. a user actionable control for allowing the user of the portable computing device to enter a command for causing the information in the information fields to be updated;
d. in response to an entry made by the user of the portable computing device using the user actionable control, causing the information in the information fields to be updated.
a. establishing a communication link with the spa system over a local area network (LAN);
b. exchanging data with the spa system over said communication link, at least some of said data conveying prior errors that occurred over time during operation of the spa system, the data conveying the prior errors being stored in an error log;
c. displaying on a display screen of the portable computing device a spa user interface, the spa user interface displaying:
i. information fields conveying to a user of the portable computing device information derived from the data in the error log; and ii. a user actionable control for allowing the user of the portable computing device to enter a command for causing the information in the information fields to be updated;
d. in response to an entry made by the user of the portable computing device using the user actionable control, causing the information in the information fields to be updated.
2. A portable computing device as defined in claim 1, wherein at least one information field identifies a number of times a particular error occurred.
3. A portable computing device as defined in claim 1, wherein at least one information field provides timing information indicating when a particular error occurred.
4. A portable computing device as defined in either one of claims 1 and 2, wherein at least one information field conveys a number of times the spa system has been reset.
5. A portable computing device as defined in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least one information field conveys a time lapse since a high limit error occurred.
6. A portable computing device as defined in claim 1, wherein the user actionable control is a first user actionable control, the spa user interface further displaying a second user actionable control, the second user actionable control allowing the user of the portable computing device to enter a command for causing the error log to be reset.
7. A portable computing device as defined in claim 1, wherein said portable computing device is a hand-held device.
8. A portable computing device as defined in claim 7, wherein said hand-held device is a personal digital assistant (PDA).
9. A portable computing device as defined in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said portable computing device provides cellular phone functionality.
10. A portable computing device as defined in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said portable computing device provides e-mail functionality.
11. A computer readable storage medium including a program element suitable for being executed by a processor in a portable computing device, said program element when executed by the processor implementing a spa monitoring device suitable for use in monitoring a spa system, said program element configuring said portable computing device for:
a. establishing a communication link with the spa system over a local area network (LAN);
b. exchanging data with the spa system over said communication link, at least some of said data conveying prior errors that occurred over time during operation of the spa system, the data conveying the prior errors being stored in an error log;
c. displaying on a display screen of the portable computing device a spa user interface, the spa user interface displaying:
i. information fields conveying to a user of the portable computing device information derived from the data in the error log; and ii. a user actionable control for allowing the user of the portable computing device to enter a command for causing the information fields to be updated;
d.
in response to an entry made by the user of the portable computing device using the user actionable control, causing the information field to be updated.
a. establishing a communication link with the spa system over a local area network (LAN);
b. exchanging data with the spa system over said communication link, at least some of said data conveying prior errors that occurred over time during operation of the spa system, the data conveying the prior errors being stored in an error log;
c. displaying on a display screen of the portable computing device a spa user interface, the spa user interface displaying:
i. information fields conveying to a user of the portable computing device information derived from the data in the error log; and ii. a user actionable control for allowing the user of the portable computing device to enter a command for causing the information fields to be updated;
d.
in response to an entry made by the user of the portable computing device using the user actionable control, causing the information field to be updated.
12. A computer readable storage medium as defined in claim 11, wherein at least one information field identifies a number of times a particular error occurred.
13. A computer readable storage medium as defined in claim 11, wherein at least one information field provides timing information indicating when a particular error occurred.
14. A computer readable storage medium as defined in either one of claims 11 and 12, wherein at least one information field conveys a number of times the spa system has been reset.
15. A computer readable storage medium as defined in any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein at least one information field conveys a time lapse since a high limit error occurred.
16. A computer readable storage medium as defined in claim 11, wherein the user actionable control is a first user actionable control, the spa user interface further displaying a second user actionable control, the second user actionable control allowing the user of the portable computing device to enter a command for causing the error log to be reset.
17. A computer readable storage medium as defined in claim 11, wherein said portable computing device is a hand-held device.
18. A computer readable storage medium as defined in claim 17, wherein said hand-held device is a personal digital assistant (PDA).
19. A computer readable storage medium as defined in any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein said portable computing device provides cellular phone functionality.
20. A computer readable storage medium as defined in any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein said portable computing device provides e-mail functionality.
21. A portable computing device suitable for use in monitoring a spa system, said portable computing device being programmed for:
a. establishing a communication link with the spa system over a network;
b. exchanging data with the spa system over said communication link, at least some of said data conveying prior errors that occurred over time during operation of the spa system;
c. displaying on a display screen of the portable computing device a spa user interface, the spa user interface displaying:
i. information fields conveying to a user of the portable computing device information derived from the data conveying the prior errors that occurred over time;
ii. a user actionable control for allowing the user of the portable computing device to enter a command for causing the information fields to be updated;
d. in response to an entry made by the user of the portable computing device using the user actionable control, causing the information fields to be updated.
a. establishing a communication link with the spa system over a network;
b. exchanging data with the spa system over said communication link, at least some of said data conveying prior errors that occurred over time during operation of the spa system;
c. displaying on a display screen of the portable computing device a spa user interface, the spa user interface displaying:
i. information fields conveying to a user of the portable computing device information derived from the data conveying the prior errors that occurred over time;
ii. a user actionable control for allowing the user of the portable computing device to enter a command for causing the information fields to be updated;
d. in response to an entry made by the user of the portable computing device using the user actionable control, causing the information fields to be updated.
22. A portable computing device as defined in claim 21, wherein at least one information field identifies a number of times a particular error occurred.
23. A portable computing device as defined in claim 21, wherein at least one information field provides timing information indicating when a particular error occurred.
24. A computer readable storage medium including a program element suitable for being executed by a processor in a portable computing device, said program element when executed by the processor implementing a spa monitoring device suitable for use in monitoring a spa system, said program element configuring said portable computing device for:
a. establishing a communication link with the spa system over a network;
b. exchanging data with the spa system over said communication link, at least some of said data conveying prior errors that occurred over time during operation of the spa system;
c. displaying on a display screen of the portable computing device a spa user interface, the spa user interface displaying:
i. information fields conveying to a user of the portable computing device information derived from the data conveying the prior errors that occurred over time; and ii. a user actionable control for allowing the user of the portable computing device to enter a command for causing the information fields to be updated;
d. in response to an entry made by the user of the portable computing device using the user actionable control, causing the information filed to be updated.
a. establishing a communication link with the spa system over a network;
b. exchanging data with the spa system over said communication link, at least some of said data conveying prior errors that occurred over time during operation of the spa system;
c. displaying on a display screen of the portable computing device a spa user interface, the spa user interface displaying:
i. information fields conveying to a user of the portable computing device information derived from the data conveying the prior errors that occurred over time; and ii. a user actionable control for allowing the user of the portable computing device to enter a command for causing the information fields to be updated;
d. in response to an entry made by the user of the portable computing device using the user actionable control, causing the information filed to be updated.
25. A computer readable storage medium as defined in claim 24, wherein at least one information field identifies a number of times a particular error occurred.
26. A computer readable storage medium as defined in claim 24, wherein at least one information field provides timing information indicating when a particular error occurred.
27. Use of the portable computing device defined in any one of claims 1 to 10 and 21 to 23 in order to troubleshoot a problem associated with the spa system.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US09/709,787 US7489986B1 (en) | 2000-11-07 | 2000-11-07 | Spa controller computer interface for spas |
| US09/709,787 | 2000-11-07 | ||
| CA2361096A CA2361096C (en) | 2000-11-07 | 2001-11-06 | Spa controller computer interface for spas |
Related Parent Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2361096A Division CA2361096C (en) | 2000-11-07 | 2001-11-06 | Spa controller computer interface for spas |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2727878A1 CA2727878A1 (en) | 2002-05-07 |
| CA2727878C true CA2727878C (en) | 2014-03-04 |
Family
ID=24851303
Family Applications (2)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2361096A Expired - Lifetime CA2361096C (en) | 2000-11-07 | 2001-11-06 | Spa controller computer interface for spas |
| CA2727878A Expired - Lifetime CA2727878C (en) | 2000-11-07 | 2001-11-06 | Portable spa controller interface |
Family Applications Before (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2361096A Expired - Lifetime CA2361096C (en) | 2000-11-07 | 2001-11-06 | Spa controller computer interface for spas |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (2) | US7489986B1 (en) |
| CA (2) | CA2361096C (en) |
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-
2000
- 2000-11-07 US US09/709,787 patent/US7489986B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2001
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- 2001-11-06 CA CA2727878A patent/CA2727878C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2005
- 2005-08-25 US US11/210,811 patent/US20050288821A1/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2727878A1 (en) | 2002-05-07 |
| US7489986B1 (en) | 2009-02-10 |
| CA2361096A1 (en) | 2002-05-07 |
| CA2361096C (en) | 2011-03-29 |
| US20050288821A1 (en) | 2005-12-29 |
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