Pumping system with housing and user interface

Abstract

A pumping system for at least one aquatic application controlled by a user. The pumping system includes a pump and a motor disposed in a first housing and coupled to the pump. A user interface is associated with a second housing, the second housing defined by a base portion shaped to interact with the first housing and a user interface portion that carries a plurality of control buttons, wherein the second housing is selectively positionable among a plurality of positions relative to the first housing.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to control of a pump, and more particularly to control of a variable speed pumping system for a pool.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventionally, a pump to be used in a pool is operable at a finite number of predesigned speed settings (e.g., typically high and low settings). Typically these speed settings correspond to the range of pumping demands of the pool at the time of installation. Factors such as the volumetric flow rate of water to be pumped, the total head pressure required to adequately pump the volume of water, and other operational parameters determine the size of the pump and the proper speed settings for pump operation. Once the pump is installed, the speed settings typically are not readily changed to accommodate changes in the pool conditions and/or pumping demands.

Conventionally, it is also typical to equip a pumping system for use in a pool with auxiliary devices, such as a heating device, a chemical dispersion device (e.g., a chlorinator or the like), a filter arrangement, and/or an automation device. Often, operation of a particular auxiliary device can require different pump performance characteristics. For example, operation of a heating device may require a specific water flow rate or flow pressure for correct heating of the pool water. It is possible that a conventional pump can be manually adjusted to operate at one of a finite number of predetermined, non-alterable speed settings in response to a water demand from an auxiliary device. However, adjusting the pump to one of the predetermined, non-alterable settings may cause the pump to operate at a rate that exceeds a needed rate, while adjusting the pump to another setting may cause the pump to operate at a rate that provides an insufficient amount of flow and/or pressure. In such a case, the pump will either operate inefficiently or operate at a level below that which is desired.

Accordingly, it would be beneficial to provide a pump that could be readily and easily adapted to provide a suitably supply of water at a desired pressure to aquatic applications having a variety of sizes and features. The pump should be capable of pumping water to a plurality of aquatic applications and features, and should be variably adjustable to a number of user defined speeds, quickly and repeatably, over a range of operating speeds to pump the water as needed when conditions change. Further, the pump should be responsive to a change of conditions and/or user input instructions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In some embodiments, a pumping system for at least one aquatic application controlled by a user is disclosed. The pumping system includes a pump and a motor disposed in a first housing and coupled to the pump. A user interface is associated with a second housing, the second housing defined by a base portion shaped to interact with the first housing and a user interface portion that carries a plurality of control buttons, wherein the second housing is selectively positionable among a plurality of positions relative to the first housing.

In some embodiments, a control system for at least one aquatic application controlled by a user is disclosed. The control system includes a pump coupled to the at least one aquatic application and a variable speed motor adapted to be coupled to the pump. A user interface is releasably coupled to the variable speed motor, the user interface symmetrically shaped such that the user interface is positionable among a plurality of positions relative to the variable speed motor. The user interface also includes at least one user input component to select a first speed value associated with a first time period, and at least a second user input component to select a second speed value associated with a second time period.

In other embodiments, a method for positioning a user interface relative to a pump and a variable speed motor is disclosed. The pump and variable speed motor are disposed in a housing, and the user interface is releasably securable to the housing. The user interface is positioned in a first orientation with respect to the housing. The user interface is attached to the housing in a first orientation. The user interface is released from the housing. The user interface is rotated to a second orientation different from the first orientation, and the user interface is attached to the housing in the second orientation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which the present invention relates upon reading the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example of a variable speed pumping system in accordance with the present invention with a pool environment;

FIG. 2 is function flow chart for an example methodology in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of example auxiliary devices that can be operably connected to the pumping system;

FIG. 4 is similar to FIG. 3, but shows various other example auxiliary devices;

FIG. 5 is a perceptive view of an example pump unit that incorporates the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective, partially exploded view of a pump of the unit shown in FIG. 5; and

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an example means for controlling the pump unit shown in FIG. 5.

DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and is not to be taken as a limitation on the present invention. Further, in the drawings, the same reference numerals are employed for designating the same elements throughout the figures, and in order to clearly and concisely illustrate the present invention, certain features may be shown in somewhat schematic form.

An example variable-speed pumping system 10 in accordance with one aspect of the present invention is schematically shown in FIG. 1. The pumping system 10 includes a pump unit 12 that is shown as being used with a pool 14. It is to be appreciated that the pump unit 12 includes a pump 16 for moving water through inlet and outlet lines 18 and 20.

The swimming pool 14 is one example of a pool. The definition of “swimming pool” includes, but is not limited to, swimming pools, spas, and whirlpool baths, and further includes features and accessories associated therewith, such as water jets, waterfalls, fountains, pool filtration equipment, chemical treatment equipment, pool vacuums, spillways and the like.

A water operation 22 is performed upon the water moved by the pump 16. Within the shown example, water operation 22 is a filter arrangement that is associated with the pumping system 10 and the pool 14 for providing a cleaning operation (i.e., filtering) on the water within the pool. The filter arrangement 22 is operatively connected between the pool 14 and the pump 16 at/along an inlet line 18 for the pump. Thus, the pump 16, the pool 14, the filter arrangement 22, and the interconnecting lines 18 and 20 form a fluid circuit or pathway for the movement of water.

It is to be appreciated that the function of filtering is but one example of an operation that can be performed upon the water. Other operations that can be performed upon the water may be simplistic, complex or diverse. For example, the operation performed on the water may merely be just movement of the water by the pumping system (e.g., re-circulation of the water in a waterfall or spa environment).

Turning to the filter arrangement 22, any suitable construction and configuration of the filter arrangement is possible. For example, the filter arrangement 22 can include a sand filter, a cartridge filter, and/or a diatomaceous earth filter, or the like. In another example, the filter arrangement 22 may include a skimmer assembly for collecting coarse debris from water being withdrawn from the pool, and one or more filter components for straining finer material from the water. In still yet another example, the filter arrangement 22 can be in fluid communication with a pool cleaner, such as a vacuum pool cleaner adapted to vacuum debris from the various submerged surfaces of the pool. The pool cleaner can include various types, such as various manual and/or automatic types.

The pump 16 may have any suitable construction and/or configuration for providing the desired force to the water and move the water. In one example, the pump 16 is a common centrifugal pump of the type known to have impellers extending radially from a central axis. Vanes defined by the impellers create interior passages through which the water passes as the impellers are rotated. Rotating the impellers about the central axis imparts a centrifugal force on water therein, and thus imparts the force flow to the water. Although centrifugal pumps are well suited to pump a large volume of water at a continuous rate, other motor-operated pumps may also be used within the scope of the present invention.

Drive force is provided to the pump 16 via a pump motor 24. In the one example, the drive force is in the form of rotational force provided to rotate the impeller of the pump 16. In one specific embodiment, the pump motor 24 is a permanent magnet motor. In another specific embodiment, the pump motor 24 is an induction motor. In yet another embodiment, the pump motor 24 can be a synchronous or asynchronous motor. The pump motor 24 operation is infinitely variable within a range of operation (i.e., zero to maximum operation). In one specific example, the operation is indicated by the RPM of the rotational force provided to rotate the impeller of the pump 16. In the case of a synchronous motor 24, the steady state speed (RPM) of the motor 24 can be referred to as the synchronous speed. Further, in the case of a synchronous motor 24, the steady state speed of the motor 24 can also be determined based upon the operating frequency in hertz (Hz).

A means for operating 30 provides for the control of the pump motor 24 and thus the control of the pump 16. Within the shown example, the means for operating 30 can include a variable speed drive 32 that provides for the infinitely variable control of the pump motor 24 (i.e., varies the speed of the pump motor). By way of example, within the operation of the variable speed drive 32, a single phase AC current from a source power supply is converted (e.g., broken) into a three-phase AC current. Any suitable technique and associated construction/configuration may be used to provide the three-phase AC current. The variable speed drive supplies the AC electric power at a changeable frequency to the pump motor to drive the pump motor. The construction and/or configuration of the pump 16, the pump motor 24, the means for operating 30 as a whole, and the variable speed drive 32 as a portion of the means for operating 30 are not limitations on the present invention. In one possibility, the pump 16 and the pump motor 24 are disposed within a single housing to form a single unit, and the means for operating 30 with the variable speed drive 32 are disposed within another single housing to form another single unit. In another possibility, these components are disposed within a single housing to form a single unit.

Further still, the means for operating 30 can receive input from a user interface 31 that can be operatively connected to the means for operating 30 in various manners. For example, the user interface 31 can include means for receiving input 40 from a user, such as a keypad, buttons, switches, or the like such that a user could use to input various parameters into the means for operating 30. As shown in FIG. 7, the means for receiving input 40 can include various buttons having various functions. In one example, the means for receiving input 40 can include a plurality of retained speed buttons 41a-41d, each button corresponding to the selection of a retained speed value. Each retained speed button 41a-41d can have an associated visual indicator 43, such as a LED light or the like. Additionally, the user interface 31 can also include various other user input devices, such as a second means for receiving 44 input from a user having buttons 45a-45b configured to alter a selected speed value. For example, one button 45a can be configured to increase a pre-selected speed value, while another button 45b can be configured to decrease a pre-selected speed value. Other user input devices can include start 46 and stop 48 buttons configured to start and stop operation of the motor 24. It is to be appreciated that although the shown example of FIG. 7 includes four speed buttons 41a-41d (e.g., Speed #1-#4), various numbers of speed buttons associated with various numbers of speed values can be used.

In addition or alternatively, the user interface 31 can be adapted to provide visual and/or audible information to a user. In one example, the user interface 31 can include written instructions 42 for operation of the means for operating 30. In another example, the user interface 31 can include one or more visual displays, such as an alphanumeric LCD display (not shown), LED lights 47, or the like. The LED lights 47 can be configured to indicate an operational status, various alarm conditions (e.g., overheat condition, an overcurrent condition, an overvoltage condition, obstruction, or the like) through associated printed indicia, a predetermined number of flashes of various durations or intensities, through color changes, or the like.

Additionally, the user interface 31 can include other features, such as a buzzer, loudspeaker, or the like (not shown) to provide an audible indication for various events. Further still, as shown in FIG. 5, the user interface 31 can include a removable (e.g., pivotable, slidable, detachable, etc.) protective cover 49 adapted to provide protection against damage when the user interface 31 is not in use. The protective cover 49 can include various rigid or semi-rigid materials, such as plastic, and can have various degrees of light permeability, such as opaque, translucent, and/or transparent. For example, where the protective cover 49 is light permeable, a user can view various operational status and/or alarm conditions indicated by the LEDs 47 even when the cover 49 is in a closed position.

The pumping system 10 can have additional means used for control of the operation of the pump. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the pumping system 10 includes means for sensing, determining, or the like one or more parameters indicative of the operation performed upon the water. Within one specific example, the system includes means for sensing, determining or the like one or more parameters indicative of the movement of water within the fluid circuit.

The example of FIG. 1 shows an example additional operation 38. Such an additional operation 38 may be a cleaner device, either manual or autonomous. As can be appreciated, an additional operation involves additional water movement. Also, within the presented example, the water movement is through the filter arrangement 22. Such, additional water movement may be used to supplant the need for other water movement, as will be discussed further herein.

The means for controlling 30 can also be configured to protect itself and/or the pump 24 from damage by sensing alert conditions, such as an overheat condition, an overcurrent condition, an overvoltage condition, freeze condition, or even a power outage. The ability to sense, determine or the like one or more parameters may take a variety of forms. For example, one or more sensor or sensor arrangements (not shown) may be utilized. The sensor arrangement of the pumping system 10 can be configured to sense one or more parameters indicative of the operation of the pump 24, or even the operation 38 performed upon the water. Additionally, the sensor arrangement can be used to monitor flow rate and flow pressure to provide an indication of impediment or hindrance via obstruction or condition, whether physical, chemical, or mechanical in nature, that interferes with the flow of water from the pool to the pump such as debris accumulation or the lack of accumulation, within the filter arrangement 34.

Keeping with the example of FIG. 1, some examples of the pumping system 10, and specifically the means for controlling 30 and associated portions, that utilize at least one relationship between the pump operation and the operation performed upon the water attention are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,354,805, to Moller, entitled “Method For Regulating A Delivery Variable Of A Pump” and U.S. Pat. No. 6,468,042, to Moller, entitled “Method For Regulating A Delivery Variable Of A Pump.” The disclosures of these patents are incorporated herein by reference. In short summary, direct sensing of the pressure and/or flow rate of the water is not performed, but instead one or more sensed or determined parameters associated with pump operation are utilized as an indication of pump performance. One example of such a pump parameter is input power. Pressure and/or flow rate can be calculated/determined from such pump parameter(s). Thus, when an alarm condition is recognized, the means for operating 30 can be configured to alert the user (e.g., a visual or audible alert, such as flashing LED 47) and/or reduce the operational speed of the motor 24 until the alarm condition is cleared. In severe cases, the means for operating 30 can even be configured to completely stop operation of the motor (e.g., a lockout condition) until user intervention has cleared the problem.

Within yet another aspect of the present invention, the pumping system 10 may operate to have different constant flow rates during different time periods. Such different time periods may be sub-periods (e.g., specific hours) within an overall time period (e.g., a day) within which a specific number of water turnovers is desired. During some time periods a larger flow rate may be desired, and a lower flow rate may be desired at other time periods. Within the example of a swimming pool with a filter arrangement as part of the water operation, it may be desired to have a larger flow rate during pool-use time (e.g., daylight hours) to provide for increased water turnover and thus increased filtering of the water. Within the same swimming pool example, it may be desired to have a lower flow rate during non-use (e.g., nighttime hours).

Turning to one specific example, attention is directed to the top-level operation chart that is shown in FIG. 2. With the chart, it can be appreciated that the system has an overall ON/OFF status 102 as indicated by the central box. Specifically, overall operation is started 104 and thus the system is ON. However, under the penumbra of a general ON state, a number of water operations can be performed. Within the shown example, the operations are Vacuum run 106, Manual run 108, Filter mode 110, and Cleaning sequence 112.

Briefly, the Vacuum run operation 106 is entered and utilized when a vacuum device is utilized within the pool 14. For example, such a vacuum device is typically connected to the pump 16 possibly through the filter arrangement 22, via a relatively long extent of hose and is moved about the pool 14 to clean the water at various locations and/or the surfaces of the pool at various locations. The vacuum device may be a manually moved device or may autonomously move.

Similarly, the manual run operation 108 is entered and utilized when it is desired to operate the pump outside of the other specified operations. The cleaning sequence operation 112 is for operation performed in the course of a cleaning routine.

Turning to the filter mode 110, this is a typical operation performed in order to maintain water clarity within the pool 14. Moreover, the filter mode 110 is operated to obtain effective filtering of the pool while minimizing energy consumption. Specifically, the pump is operated to move water through the filter arrangement. It is to be appreciated that the various operations 104-112 can be initiated manually by a user, automatically by the means for operating 30, and/or even remotely by the various associated components, such as a heater or vacuum, as will be discussed further herein.

It should be appreciated that maintenance of a constant flow volume despite changes in pumping system 10, such as an increasing impediment caused by filter dirt accumulation, can require an increasing flow rate or flow pressure of water and result in an increasing motive force from the pump/motor. As such, one aspect of the present invention is to provide a means for operating the motor/pump to provide the increased motive force that provides the increased flow rate and/or pressure to maintain the constant water flow.

It is also to be appreciated that operation of the pump motor/pump (e.g., motor speed) has a relationship to the flow rate and/or pressure of the water flow that is utilized to control flow rate and/or flow pressure via control of the pump. Thus, in order to provide an appropriate volumetric flow rate of water for the various operations 104-112, the motor 24 can be operated at various speeds. In one example, to provide an increased flow rate or flow pressure, the motor speed can be increased, and conversely, the motor speed can be decreased to provide a decreased flow rate or flow pressure.

The pumping system 10 can include various elements to facilitate variable control of the pump motor 24, quickly and repeatably, over a range of operating speeds to pump the water as needed when conditions change. In one example, the pumping system 10 can include a storage medium, such as a memory, configured to store a plurality of retained or pre-selected motor speed values. In one example, the storage medium and/or memory can be an analog type, such as tape or other electro-mechanical storage methods. In another example, the storage medium and/or memory can be a digital type, such as volatile or non-volatile random access memory (RAM) and/or read only memory (ROM). The storage medium and/or memory can be integrated into the means for operating 30 the motor, though it can also be external and/or even removable.

Thus, depending upon the particular type of storage medium or memory, the retained or pre-selected speed values can be stored as analog information, such as through a continuous spectrum of information, or can be stored as digital information, such as through discrete units of data, signals, numbers, binary numbers, non-numeric symbols, letters, icons, or the like. Additionally, the retained or pre-selected speed values can be stored either directly as a speed measurement (e.g., RPM) or synchronous frequency (e.g., Hz), or indirectly such as a ranged value (e.g., a value between 1 and 128 or a percentage, such as 50%) or an electrical value (e.g., voltage, current, resistance). It is to be appreciated that the various retained and/or pre-selected motor speed values can be pre-existing, such as factory defaults or presets, or can be user defined values, as will be discussed in greater detail herein. For example, where the retained and/or pre-selected speed values are factory defaults or presets, four speed values can be provided, such as 750 RPM, 1500 RPM, 2350 RPM, and 3110 RPM, though various other speed values can also be used.

Where the various retained and/or pre-selected speed values can be user defined values, the pumping system 10 can also include means for providing a plurality of retained speed values to the storage medium and/or memory. For example, though the factory defaults may provide a sufficient flow rate or flow pressure of water to the swimming pool, a different user defined speed may provide greater efficiency for a user's specific pumping system 10. As can be appreciated, depending upon whether the storage medium or memory is of an analog or digital type, the means for providing can similarly include analog or digital elements for interaction with the storage medium and/or memory. Thus, for example, in an analog system utilizing a tape storage medium, the means for reading can include the associated hardware and electronics for interaction with the tape medium. Similarly, in a digital system, the means for reading can include the various electronics and software for interacting with a digital memory medium.

Additionally, the means for providing can include a user input component configured to receive user defined speed value input from a user, or it can also include a communication component configured to receive the speed value input or parameter from a remote device. In one example, the means for providing retained speed values can include the means for receiving input 40 from a user, such as the previously discussed keypad, buttons, switches, or the like such that a user could use to input various speed values into the means for operating 30.

In one example method of entering a user-defined speed, a user can use the speed alteration buttons 45a-45b to enter the speed. The user can perform the speed alteration beginning with various values, such as one of the retained speed values associated with speed buttons 41a-41d, or even a known value, such as the minimum pump speed. For example, a user can use button 45a to increase the user entered speed value, or button 45b to decrease the speed value to various other speed values between the motor's minimum and maximum speeds (e.g., within an example range of 400 RPM and 3450 RPM). The speed alteration buttons 45a-45b can be configured to alter the speed in various increments, such as to increase the speed by 1 RPM, 10 RPM, or the like per actuation of the button 45a. In one example, the speed alteration buttons 45a-45b can be quickly actuated and released to increase/decrease the motor speed by 10 RPM. In addition or alternatively, the button 45a-45b can also be configured to continuously alter the speed value an amount corresponding to the amount of time that the particular button 45a-45b is actuated (e.g., a touch-and-hold operation), such as to increase/decrease the motor speed by 20 RPM until released. It is to be appreciated that where the user interface 31 includes a numerical, visual display element (e.g., an LCD display or the like, not shown), the current motor speed can be displayed thereon. Alternatively, where the user interface 31 does not include such a numerical visual display, the current motor speed can be indicated by the various LEDs 43, 47 though flashing or color-changing schemes or the like, through an audible announcement or the like, or even on a remotely connected auxiliary device 50.

It is to be appreciated that the means for operating 30 can be configured to operate the motor 24 at the newly entered user-defined speed immediately upon entry by the user. Thus, the speed can be change “on-the-fly” through actuation of the speed alteration buttons 45a-45b. Alternatively, the means for operating 30 can wait until the new speed is completely entered before altering operating the motor 24 to operate at the new speed, or could even require the user to press the start button 46 before proceeding to operate at the new speed. In either case, the means for controlling 30 can also be configured to gradually ramp the motor speed towards the new speed to avoid quick speed changes that can cause problems for the pumping system 10, such as water hammer or the like. Further, the motor 24 can continue to operate at the newly entered speed until a different speed is chosen by actuation of one of the speed buttons 41a-41d or by a remote unit, as will be discussed further herein. Thus, in addition to the four speed values associated with the speed buttons 41a-41d, the means for controlling 30 can include a fifth user-entered speed value for temporary speed changes.

In addition or alternatively, when a new user-defined speed value has been entered by a user, the means for receiving input 40 can be further configured to provide the new speed value to the storage medium and/or memory for retrieval at a later time (e.g., save the new speed value to memory). In one example, the speed buttons 41a-41d can be used to store the new speed value to memory through a touch-and-hold operation. Thus, once a user has entered the new desired speed, and wishes to save it in one of the four locations (e.g., Speed #1-#4), the user can actuate the desired button for a predetermined amount of time, such as 5 seconds (e.g., a touch-and-hold operation), though various other amounts of time can also be used. In addition or alternatively, a visual or audible indication can be made to inform the user that the saving operation was successful. Thus, once the new speed is saved and associated with one of the speed buttons 41a-41d, a user can recall the new speed when desired by briefly actuating that associated speed button 41a-41d. Accordingly, as used herein, the terms retained speed value and pre-selected speed value can include the factory default or preset speed value, and/or can also include the user entered and saved speed values.

It is to be appreciated that the process of saving a new speed value to one of the four locations (e.g., Speed #1-#4) will replace the existing speed value associated with that button. However, the means for operating 30 can include factory defaults or presets that are stored in a permanent or non-alterable memory, such as ROM. Thus, if desired, it can be possible to reset the speed values associated with the speed buttons 41a-41d to the factory defaults. In one example, the speed values can be reset by pressing and holding all four speed buttons 41a-41d for a predetermined amount of time, such as 10 seconds or the like.

The pumping system 10 can further include means for reading a selected one of the retained or pre-selected speed values from the storage medium and/or memory. As can be appreciated, depending upon whether storage medium or memory is of an analog or digital type, the means for reading can similarly include analog or digital elements for interaction with the storage medium and/or memory. Thus, for example, in an analog system utilizing a tape storage medium, the means for reading can include the associated hardware and electronics for interaction with the tape medium. Similarly, in a digital system, the means for reading can include the various electronics and software for interacting with a digital memory medium. In addition to the analog or digital elements configured to actually retrieve the retained or pre-selected speed value from the storage medium and/or memory, the means for reading can also include means for receiving input from a user for choosing which of the plurality of retained or pre-selected speed values are to be retrieved. In one example, the means for providing retained speed values can include the means for receiving input 40 from a user, such as the previously discussed keypad, buttons, switches, or the like such that a user could use to choose a particular speed value.

Thus, in another example method of operation, a user can use the means for receiving input 40 to select one of the plurality of retained speed values. As shown, the four speed buttons 41a-41d (e.g., Speed #1-#4) can be actuated to select the retained or pre-selected speed value associated therewith. For example, if a user desired to operate the motor 24 at the speed associated with (e.g., saved under) the Speed #2 button 41b, the user could briefly actuate the speed button 41b to retrieve the saved speed value from memory. Subsequent to the retrieval of the speed value, the means for operating 30 the motor could proceed to alter the speed of the motor 24 towards the retrieved speed value to the exclusion of other speed values.

The pumping system 10 can include additional features, such as means for restarting operation of the motor 24 after a power interruption. For example, where the storage medium and/or memory is of the non-volatile type (e.g., does not require a continuous supply of power to retain the stored data), it can provide an operational reference point after a power interruption. Thus, after the power interruption, the means for restarting can be configured to automatically retrieve the previously selected retained speed value from the storage medium and/or memory, and can also be configured to automatically restart operation of the motor at that speed. As such, even if the power supply to the motor 24 is interrupted, the motor 24 can resume operation in an expeditious manner to so that the pumped water continues to circulate through the swimming pool.

Turning now to FIGS. 3-4, in accordance with other aspects of the present invention, the pumping system 10 can include one or more auxiliary devices 50 operably connected to the means for operating 30. As shown, the auxiliary devices 50 can include various devices, including mechanical, electrical, and/or chemical devices that can be connected to the means for operating 30 in various mechanical and/or electrical manners. In one example, the auxiliary devices 50 can include devices configured to perform an operation upon the water moved by the water pump 12. Various examples can include a water heating device 52, a chemical dispersion device 54 for dispersing chemicals into the water, such as chlorine, bromine, ozone, etc., and/or a water dispersion device (not shown), such as a water fountain or water jet. Further examples can include a filter arrangement 58 for performing a filtering operation upon the water, a second water pump (not shown) with a second pump motor (not shown) for moving the water, and/or a vacuum 64 device, such as a manual or automatic vacuum device for cleaning the swimming pool.

In another example, the auxiliary devices 50 can include a user interface device capable of receiving information input by a user, such as a parameter related to operation of the pumping system 10. Various examples can include a remote keypad 66, such as a remote keypad similar to the keypad of the means for receiving user input 40 and display (not shown) of the means for operating 30, a personal computer 68, such as a desktop computer, a laptop, a personal digital assistant, or the like, and/or an automation control system 70, such as various analog or digital control systems that can include programmable logic controllers (PLC), computer programs, or the like. The various user interface devices 66, 68, 70, as illustrated by the remote keypad 66, can include a keypad 72, buttons, switches, or the like such that a user could input various parameters and information, and can even be adapted to provide visual and/or audible information to a user, and can include one or more visual displays 74, such as an alphanumeric LCD display, LED lights, or the like, and/or a buzzer, loudspeaker, or the like (not shown). Thus, for example, a user could use a remote keypad 66 or automation system 70 to monitor the operational status of the pumping system 10, such as the motor speed.

In still yet another example, the auxiliary devices 50 can include various miscellaneous devices (not shown) for interaction with the swimming pool. Various examples can include a valve, such as a mechanically or electrically operated water valve, an electrical switch, a lighting device for providing illumination to the swimming pool and/or associated devices, an electrical or mechanical relay 82, a sensor, and/or a mechanical or electrical timing device.

In addition or alternatively, as shown in FIG. 3, the auxiliary device 50 can include a communications panel 88, such as a junction box, switchboard, or the like, configured to facilitate communication between the means for operating 30 and various other auxiliary devices 50. The various miscellaneous devices can have direct or indirect interaction with the water of the swimming pool and/or any of the various other devices discussed herein. It is to be appreciated that the various examples discussed herein and shown in the figures are not intended to provide a limitation upon the present invention, and that various other auxiliary devices 50 can be used.

Additionally, the means for operating 30 can be configured to independently select one of the retained or pre-selected speed values from the storage medium and/or memory for operation of the motor 24 based upon input from an auxiliary device(s) 50. That is, although a user can select an operating speed via the user interface 31, the means for controlling 30 can be capable of independently selecting an operating speed from the memory based upon input from an auxiliary device(s) 50. Further still, a user-defined speed can even be input from an auxiliary device 50. However, it is to be appreciated that the user interface 31 can be configured to override the independent speed selection.

In one example, as shown in FIG. 3, the communication panel 88 can include a plurality of relays 84a-84c connected to a plurality of auxiliary devices 50, such as a heater 52, chlorinator 54, or vacuum 64. The relays 84a-84c can include various types of relays, such as power supply relays. For example, when power is supplied to an auxiliary device, the associated power supply relay can be configured to provide/output a power signal. The communication panel 88 can also include an interface unit 86 operatively connected to the relays 84a-84c through cabling 89 to provide a communication interface between the relays 84a-84c and the means for operating 30 the pump 12. The interface unit 86 can convert/translate the output power signals of the relays 84a-84c into a communication language/scheme that is compatible with the means for controlling 30. In one example, the interface unit 86 can convert the power signals of the relays 84a-84c into digital serial communication. In such a case, the interface unit 86 can be connected to the means for controlling 30 by way of an appropriate data cable 90. It is to be appreciated that the various relays 84a-84c could also be connected directly to the means for controlling 30.

In an example method of operation, the communication panel 88 can be configured such that each relay 84a-84c corresponds to one of the four retained/pre-selected speeds stored in the storage medium/memory of the means for controlling 30. Thus, activation of various relays 84a-84c can permit selection of the various retained speed values stored in memory to provide a form of automated control. For example, when power is supplied to the heater 52 for heating the water, the associated power relay 84b (e.g., Relay 2) can send a power signal to the interface unit 86. The interface unit 86 can convert/translate the power signal and transmit it to the means for controlling 30 through the data cable 90, and the means for controlling 30 can select the second speed value (e.g., Speed #2) from memory and operate the motor 24 at that speed. Thus, during operation of the heater 52, the pump 12 can provide an appropriate water flow rate or flow pressure. Similarly, once the heater 52 ceases operation, the power relay 84b can be de-energized, and the means for controlling 30 can operate the pump 12 a lower flow rate or flow pressure to increase system efficiency. It is to be appreciated that this form of automated control can be similar to that discussed previously herein with relation to the various operations 104-112 of FIG. 2.

Additionally, the various relays 84a-84c can be setup in a hierarchy such that the means for controlling 30 can be configured to select the speed value of the auxiliary device 50 associated with the highest order relay 84a-84c that is energized. In one example, the hierarchy could be setup such that Relay #3 84c has a higher order than Relay #1 84a. Thus, even if Relay #1 84a is energized for operation of the chlorinator 54, a subsequent activation of Relay #3 84c for operation of the vacuum 64 will cause the means for controlling 30 to select the speed value associated with Relay #3 84c. As such, an appropriate water flow rate or flow pressure can be assured during operation of the vacuum 64. Further, once operation of the vacuum 64 is finished, and Relay #3 84c is de-energized, the means for controlling 30 can return to the speed selection associated with Relay #1 84a. It is to be appreciated that the hierarchy could be setup variously based upon various characteristics, such as run time, flow rate, flow pressure, etc. of the auxiliary devices 50.

Turning now to the example shown in FIG. 4, the pumping system 10 can also provide for two-way communication between the means for operating 30 and the one or more auxiliary devices 50. The two-way communication system can include various communication methods configured to permit signals, information, data, commands, or the like to be input, output, processed, transmitted, received, stored, and/or displayed. It is to be appreciated that the two-way communication system can provide for control of the pumping system 10, or can also be used to provide information for monitoring the operational status of the pumping system 10. Thus, the various auxiliary devices 50 can each request operation at one of the retained/pre-selected speeds stored in memory, and the means for controlling 30 can operate the motor 24 accordingly. It is to be appreciated that, as shown, each auxiliary device 50 can be operably connected to an automation system 70, though the automation system 70 can be replaced by a relatively simpler communication panel or the like similar to that shown in FIG. 3.

The various communication methods can include half-duplex communication (e.g., to provide communication in both directions, but only in one direction at a time and not simultaneously), or conversely, can include full duplex communication to provide simultaneous two-way communication. Further, the two-way communication system can be configured to provide analog communication, such as through a continuous spectrum of information, or it can also be configured to provide digital communication, such as through discrete units of data, such as discrete signals, numbers, binary numbers, non-numeric symbols, letters, icons, or the like.

In various digital communication schemes, two-way communication can be provided through various digital communication methods. In one example, the two-way communication system can be configured to provide digital serial communication to send and receive data one unit at a time in a sequential manner. Various digital serial communication specifications can be used, such as RS-232 and/or RS-485, both of which are known in the art. In addition or alternatively, the digital serial communication can be used in a master/slave configuration, as is know in the art. Various other digital communication methods can also be used, such as parallel communications (e.g., all the data units are sent together), or the like. It is to be appreciated that, despite the particular method used, the two-way communication system can be configured to permit any of the various connected devices to transmit and/or receive information.

The various communication methods can be implemented in various manners, including customized cabling or conventional cabling, including serial or parallel cabling. In addition or alternatively, the communications methods can be implemented through more sophisticated cabling and/or wireless schemes, such as over phone lines, universal serial bus (USB), firewire (IEEE 1394), ethernet (IEEE 802.03), wireless ethernet (IEEE 802.11), bluetooth (IEEE 802.15), WiMax (IEEE 802.16), or the like. The two-way communication system can also include various hardware and/or software converters, translators, or the like configured to provide compatibility between any of the various communication methods.

Further still, the various digital communication methods can employ various protocols including various rules for data representation, signaling, authentication, and error detection to facilitate the transmission and reception of information over the communications method. The communication protocols for digital communication can include various features intended to provide a reliable exchange of data or information over an imperfect communication method. In an example of RS-485 digital serial communication, an example communications protocol can include data separated into categories, such as device address data, preamble data, header data, a data field, and checksum data.

Additionally, the two-way communication system can be configured to provide either, or both, of wired or wireless communication. In the example of RS-485 digital serial communication having a two-wire differential signaling scheme, a data cable 90 can include merely two wires, one carrying an electrically positive data signal and the other carrying an electrically negative data signal, though various other wires can also be included to carry various other digital signals. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, the means for operating 30 can include a data port 92 for connection to a data cable connector 94 of the data cable 90. The data cable 90 can include a conventional metal wire cable, though it could also include various other materials, such as a fiber optic cable. The data cable 90 can be shielded to protect from external electrical interferences, and the data cable connector 94 can include various elements to protect against water and corrosion, such as a water resistant, twist lock connector. The data port 92 can even include a protective cover 95 or the like for use when the data cable 90 is disconnected. Further still, the various auxiliary devices 50 can be operably connected to the means for operating 30 directly or indirectly through various data cables 91.

In addition or alternatively, the two-way communication system can be configured to provide analog and/or digital wireless communication between the means for operating 30 and the auxiliary devices 50. For example, the means for operating 30 and/or the auxiliary devices can include a wireless device 98, such as a wireless transmitter, receiver, or transceiver operating on various frequencies, such as radio waves (including cellular phone frequencies), microwaves, or the like. In addition or alternatively, the wireless device 98 can operate on various visible and invisible light frequencies, such as infrared light. As shown in FIG. 4, the wireless device 98 can be built in, or provided as a separate unit connected by way of a data cable 93 or the like.

In yet another example, at least a portion of the two-way communication system can include a computer network 96. The computer network 96 can include various types, such as a local area network (e.g., a network generally covering to a relatively small geographical location, such as a house, business, or collection of buildings), a wide area network (e.g., a network generally covering a relatively wide geographical area and often involving a relatively large array of computers), or even the internet (e.g., a worldwide, public and/or private network of interconnected computer networks, including the world wide web). The computer network 96 can be wired or wireless, as previously discussed herein. The computer network 96 can act as an intermediary between one or more auxiliary devices 50, such as a personal computer 68 or the like, and the means for operating 30. Thus, a user using a personal computer 68 could exchange data and information with the means for operating 30 in a remote fashion as per the boundaries of the network 96. In one example, a user using a personal computer 68 connected to the internet could exchange data and information (e.g., for control and/or monitoring) with the means for operating 30, from home, work, or even another country. In addition or alternatively, a user could exchange data and information for control and/or monitoring over a cellular phone or other personal communication device.

In addition or alternatively, where at least a portion of the two-way communication system includes a computer network 96, various components of the pumping system 10 can be serviced and/or repaired from a remote location. For example, if the pump 12 or means for operating 30 develops a problem, an end user can contact a service provider (e.g., product manufacturer or authorized service center, etc.) that can remotely access the problematic component through the two-way communication system and the computer network 96 (e.g., the internet). Alternatively, the pumping system 10 can be configured to automatically call out to the service provider when a problem is detected. The service provider can exchange data and information with the problematic component, and can service, repair, update, etc. the component without having a dedicated service person physically present in front of the swimming pool. Thus, the service provider can be located at a central location, and can provide service to any connected pumping system 10, even from around the world. In another example, the service provider can constantly monitor the status (e.g., performance, settings, health, etc.) of the pumping system 10, and can provide various services, as required.

Regardless of the methodology used, the means for operating 30 can be capable of receiving a speed request from one or more of the auxiliary devices 50 through the various two-way communication systems discussed herein. In one example, the means for operating 30 can be operable to alter operation of the motor 24 based upon the speed request received from the auxiliary device(s) 50. For example, where a water heater 52 requires a particular water flow rate for proper operation, the means for operating 30 could receive a desired speed request (e.g., Speed #2 or Speed #4) from the water heater 52 through the two-way communication system. In response, the means for operating 30 could alter operation of the motor 24 to provide the requested speed request (e.g., Speed #2). It is to be appreciated that the auxiliary devices 50 can also be configured to transmit a user defined speed value to the means for operating 30 through the communication system.

Additionally, where the means for operating 30 is capable of independent operation, it can also be operable to selectively alter operation of the motor 24 based upon the speed requests received from the auxiliary device(s) 50. Thus, the means for operating 30 can choose whether or not to alter operation of the motor 24 when it receives a speed request from an auxiliary device 50. For example, where the pumping system 10 is performing a particular function, such as a backwash cycle, or is in a lockout state, such as may occur when the system 10 cannot be primed, the means for operating 30 can choose to ignore a speed request from the heater 52. In addition or alternatively, the means for operating 30 could choose to delay and/or reschedule altering operation of the motor 24 until a later time (e.g., after the backwash cycle finishes).

Thus, the means for operating 30 can be configured to control operation of the variable speed motor 24 independently, or in response to user input. However, it is to be appreciated that the means for operating 30 can also be configured to act as a slave device that is controlled by an automation system 70, such as a PLC or the like. It is to be appreciated that the means for operating 30 can be configured to switch between independent control and slave control. For example, the means for operating 30 can be configured to switch between the control schemes based upon whether the data cable 90 is connected (e.g., switching to independent control when the data cable 90 is disconnected).

In one example, the automation system 70 can receive various speed requests from various auxiliary devices 50, and based upon those requests, can directly control the speed operations of the means for operating 30 to alter operation of the motor 24. For example, over a course of a long period of time, it is typical that a predetermined volume of water flow is desired, such as to move a volume of water equal to multiple turnovers within a specified time period (e.g., a day). Thus, the automation system 70 can be configured to optimize a power consumption of the motor 24 based upon the various speed requests received from the auxiliary device(s) 50. It is to be appreciated that this form of automated control can be similar to that discussed previously herein with relation to the various operations 104-112 of FIG. 2.

Focusing on the aspect of minimal energy usage (e.g., optimization of energy consumed over a time period), the system 10 with an associated filter arrangement 22 can be operated continuously (e.g., 24 hours a day, or some other time amount(s)) at an ever-changing minimum level (e.g., minimum speed) to accomplish the desired level of pool cleaning. It is possible to achieve a very significant savings in energy usage with such a use of the present invention as compared to the known pump operation at the high speed. In one example, the cost savings would be in the range of 30-40% as compared to a known pump/filter arrangement.

Energy conservation in the present invention is based upon an appreciation that such other water movement may be considered as part of the overall desired water movement, cycles, turnover, filtering, etc. Associated with operation of various functions and auxiliary devices 50 is a certain amount of water movement. As such, water movement associated with such other functions and devices can be utilized as part of the overall water movement to achieve desired values within a specified time frame (e.g., turnovers per day). Thus, control of a first operation (e.g., filtering at Speed #1) in response to performance of a second operation (e.g., running a pool cleaner at Speed #3) can allow for minimization of a purely filtering aspect. This permits increased energy efficiency by avoiding unnecessary pump operation.

It is to be appreciated that the means for controlling 30 may have various forms to accomplish the desired functions. In one example, the means for operating 30 includes a computer processor that operates a program. In the alternative, the program may be considered to be an algorithm. The program may be in the form of macros. Further, the program may be changeable, and the means for operating 30 is thus programmable. It is to be appreciated that the programming for the means for operating 30 may be modified, updated, etc. through the two-way communication system.

Also, it is to be appreciated that the physical appearance of the components of the system 10 may vary. As some examples of the components, attention is directed to FIGS. 5-7. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the pump unit 12 and the means for operating 30 for the system 10 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of some of the components of the pump unit 12. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the means for operating 30.

In addition to the foregoing, a method of controlling the pumping system 10 for moving ater of a swimming pool is provided. The pumping system 10 includes a water pump 12 for moving water in connection with performance of an operation upon the water, and an infinitely variable speed motor 24 operatively connected to drive the pump. The method comprises the steps of providing a memory configured to store a plurality of retained speed values, and providing a plurality of retained speed values to the memory. The method also comprises the steps of reading a selected one of the plurality of retained speed values from the memory, and operating the motor at the selected one of the plurality of retained speed values. In addition or alternatively, the method can include any of the various elements and/or operations discussed previously herein, and/or even additional elements and/or operations.

It should be evident that this disclosure is by way of example and that various changes may be made by adding, modifying or eliminating details without departing from the scope of the teaching contained in this disclosure. As such it is to be appreciated that the person of ordinary skill in the art will perceive changes, modifications, and improvements to the example disclosed herein. Such changes, modifications, and improvements are intended to be within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A pumping system, comprising: a pump configured to direct water from a pump inlet to a pump outlet;a motor coupled to the pump and configured to drive the pump, the motor defines a cylindrically shaped exterior surface;a controller electrically coupled to the motor and configured to control operation of the motor;a user interface electrically coupled to the controller, the user interface configured to receive inputs and communicate the inputs to the controller;a housing configured to engage the controller and the user interface, the housing defines a concave exterior surface; anda ribbed member that includes ribs that each terminate at a tip, the successive rib tips define an arcuate profile from a first outermost rib on a first side of the ribbed member to a second outermost rib on a second side of the ribbed member that mirrors the cylindrically shaped exterior surface of the motor;wherein the ribbed member is positioned adjacent to the cylindrically shaped exterior surface of the motor;wherein the ribbed member extends from the housing such that the concave exterior surface of the housing at least partially shrouds the ribbed member;wherein the controller is positioned between the ribbed member and the user interface; andwherein the ribbed member, the housing, the controller, and the user interface are secured to the motor.

2. The pumping system of claim 1, wherein the user interface is fastened to the motor with a plurality of fasteners.

3. The pumping system of claim 1, wherein the user interface includes a protective cover.

4. The pumping system of claim 3, wherein the protective cover is opaque.

5. The pumping system of claim 1, wherein the user interface includes a plurality of control buttons.

6. The pumping system of claim 5, wherein the plurality of control buttons includes at least one user input component to select a first speed value associated with a first time period and at least a second user input component to select a second speed value associated with a second time period.

7. The pumping system of claim 6, wherein the plurality of control buttons includes an increase button and a decrease button to alter at least one of the first speed value and the first time period and the second speed value and the second time period.

8. The pumping system of claim 6, wherein the controller is configured to obtain one of the first speed value and the first time period and the second speed value and the second time period and operate the motor at a steady-state speed based on one of the first speed value and the second speed value.

9. The pumping system of claim 1, wherein the user interface includes a first visual indicator that illuminates when the pumping system is operational and a second visual indicator that illuminates to indicate a fault condition.

10. The pumping system of claim 1, wherein the user interface includes a display screen.

11. The pumping system of claim 10, wherein the controller is configured to cause a present speed to be displayed on the display screen.

12. The pumping system of claim 10, wherein the controller is configured to cause an operational parameter associated with one of the pump and the motor to be displayed on the display screen.