POWER GENERATING WATER JET

Abstract

An electrical power generating water jet for a spa, pool, or the like, having a stationary housing as a stator and at least one water jet as a rotor for generating electrical power when a pressurized fluid imparts movement of the jet relative to the stationary housing so as to generate an electrical charge during rotation of the jet to power an electrical circuit, such as a light source or an acoustic device. The electrical circuit may be carried in a user replaceable module, so as to change a defective light source, or to vary the display pattern or colors of the light source.

Description

STATEMENT OF RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application is based on and claims priority on U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/051,881 having a filing date of 9 May 2008, which is incorporated herein by this reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to the field of water jets for use in artificial bodies of water, such as spas, swimming pools, tubs and the like. With greater particularity, the present invention more specifically relates to the field of devices using a water jet to generate electrical power for decorative lighting or other electrical components that may require such electrical power.

2. Prior Art

Water jets can be used in artificial water structures, such as pools, spas and hot tubs (for ease of this disclosure, all artificial water structures will be referred to as spas in this disclosure), to provide jets of water to provide a massaging and therapeutic action. The massaging and therapeutic action usually is provided by water jets that typically are recessed into the walls of the artificial water structures. Several water jets usually are spaced about the perimeter of the artificial water structure. Water jets typically comprise nozzles for forming and adjusting the water flow through the water jets. In some water jets, the nozzles of the water jet are arrange such that the flow of water through the nozzles induces rotational movement of the water jet (for example, causing the rotationally mounted nozzles to spin) to vary the direction of the water flow and its therapeutic action during operation.

Spas also often have lights associated with them. For safety reasons, spas may have lights to assist in entering and exiting the spa in low light situations. Also, for ease of use reasons, spas may have lights to allow the user to see more clearly within the spa. Additionally, for aesthetic reasons, spas may have lights to provide accent lighting, chromotherapy lighting, and/or to illuminate waterfalls and fountains associated with the spa.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Briefly described, the present invention is a power generating water jet for a spa. The invention converts a portion of the kinetic energy from the water communicated through the jet to electrical power, which may be utilized in electrical devices such as lights, sound generators, and the like. In a typical spa water recirculation mechanism, water is recirculated from the spa tub through distribution lines that may include vortex generators for aerating the water and then reintroduced to the spa tub through the water jets. In the present invention, the water jet comprises a nozzle having a rotational aspect and the flow of water through the nozzle causes a portion of the nozzle, or water jet structure, to rotate.

The powered jet has a stationary housing that is fixed to the spa enclosure and at least one water jet on at least one rotor operably attached to the stationary housing such that water communicated through the jet imparts movement of the jet relative to the stationary housing. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the jet is mounted to the stationary housing so that water passing through the jet induces relative rotational movement of the jet within the stationary housing. Magnetos and magnets are configured on the stationary housing and the movable jet so as to generate an electrical charge during rotation of the rotor. The output of magneto is connected to electrical circuitry to power an electrical device such as a light, sound generator, or a similar device.

In various illustrative embodiments of the invention, the magnets can be located on the movable jet and the magnetos located on the stationary housing, the magnetos can be located on the stationary housing and the magnets located on the movable jet, or there can be additional stationary or movable components on which the magnets or magnetos can be located. Similarly, the light, sound generator, or similar device can be located on the movable jet, on the stationary housing, and/or on the additional stationary or movable components, as desired.

These features, and other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art when the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments is read in conjunction with the appended figures in which like reference numerals represent like parts throughout the several views.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of a powered water jet according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is side elevational view of the powered water jet shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the powered water jet shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 4 is a depiction of a representative electrical circuit for a jet.

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of the powered water jet shown in FIGS. 1-4.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for a first alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram for a second alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram for a third alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9A is a schematic front view for a fourth alternate embodiment of the invention with dual coaxial rotors.

FIG. 9B is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the fourth embodiment shown in FIG. 9A.

FIG. 10A is a schematic front view for a fifth alternate embodiment of the invention with dual rotating wheel rotors.

FIG. 10B is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 10A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 is a front elevational view of a powered water jet according to one embodiment of the invention with the magneto and the lights on the rotor and the magnets on the stationary housing. FIG. 2 is side elevational view of the powered water jet shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the powered water jet shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 4 is a simplified depiction of a representative electrical circuit for a powered water jet showing a magneto connected by circuitry to two light sources. FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of the powered water jet shown in FIGS. 1-4.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for a first alternative embodiment of the invention with the magnets on the rotor and the magneto and lights on the stationary housing. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram for a second alternative embodiment of the invention with the magnets on the rotor and the magneto and lights on a central shaft. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram for a third alternative embodiment of the invention with the magnets on a central shaft and the magneto and lights on the rotor. FIGS. 9A and 9B are schematic views for a fourth alternate embodiment of the invention with dual coaxial rotors. FIGS. 10A and 10B are schematic views for a fifth alternate embodiment of the invention with dual rotating wheel rotors.

Illustrative embodiments of a powered water jet 10 in accordance with the present invention may be seen with reference to the several drawings, in which a first illustrative embodiment is shown in FIGS. 1-3. This illustrative example of the powered water jet 10 of the present invention includes stationary housing 20, and at least one rotor 40, also referred to as a rotary housing or a rotary jet, disposed within stationary housing 20 for axial rotation within stationary housing 20 when a pressurized fluid source, typically water, is circulated through a pump and circulating system of the spa according to conventional, well known means. The term powered rotary jet is used to described the rotary jet of the present invention incorporating the power generating features.

As will be familiar to those of skill in the art, an illustrative embodiment of the invention is incorporated in a known rotary jet, in which stationary housing 20 has connector 21 at a first end of stationary housing 20 for operative connection of powered water jet 10 (which replaces the unpowered rotary jet in the known rotary jets) to the circulating system of the spa, pool, or tub. The invention is readily adaptable to other jet configurations, particularly those with moving jet nozzles, such as jets that oscillate vertically, laterally or combinations thereof. Connector 21 has a fluid passage 22 for communicating the pressurized water to one or more fluid jets 41 carried by rotor 40. After connector 21, stationary housing 20 preferably will define bearing cup 23 to receive bearing 42 for rotationally supporting rotor 40 within stationary housing 20. Subsequent to bearing race 23, wall 25 of stationary housing 20 diverges outwardly from an axial centerline C of rotor 40 to define chamber 26 within which rotor 40 may spin. Annular guides 27 project inwardly of walls 25 proximal to a second end of stationary housing 20 to stabilize rotor 40 within chamber 26. Walls 25 then extend axially towards the second end of stationary housing 20 to define collar 30, which facilitates mounting of water jet 10 within an opening (not shown) in a wall of the spa. The inner walls of collar 30 also define power generation section 31 of powered water jet 10, as disclosed in more detail below. Bezel 29 at the second end of stationary housing 20 is provided to facilitate mounting of stationary housing 20 according to conventional means.

As is best seen in reference to FIG. 3, rotor 40 comprises at least one jet 41 in communication with fluid passage 22, oriented to impart rotational movement on rotor 40 as a result of the pressurized water being carried through and ejected from the ends of jet 41. In the illustrative embodiment shown, two jets 41 are angled outwardly from the centerline C and are also longitudinally offset from the axial centerline so as to impart a greater rotational force. As mentioned previously, bearing 42 is located at a first end or axle 49 of rotor 40 for rotationally supporting rotor 40 in stationary housing 20 about hub 24. As best seen in reference to FIG. 1, the outlets of jets 41 pass through outer face 43 at a second end of rotor 40.

In the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 1-4, the power generation elements for powered water jet 10 include one or more permanent or fixed magnets 32 embedded within the walls of stationary housing 20 around the periphery of power generation section 30, as best seen in reference to FIGS. 1 and 3. Pairs of magnets 32 may be coupled with ferrous strap 34. One or more magnetos 44 are mounted subjacent to outer face 39 around the periphery of rotor 40 such that they are radially opposed to the magnetic fields of magnets 32 during rotation of rotor 40 within stationary housing 20. Outputs 45 of magneto 44 may be connected to one or more electrically powered devices, such as light source 47, via electronic circuitry 46, such as a simple rectifier and/or resistor and/or resistor-capacitor (RC) circuit, as shown in FIG. 4. The electrically powered device may be a light source 47, which may for example be a light emitting diode (LED) carried on outer face 39 of rotor 40. Alternatively, as disclosed in more detail below, magnetos 44 can be mounted within the walls of stationary housing 20 and magnets 32 can be mounted on rotor 40, as well as other equivalent configurations.

As can been seen in FIG. 4, one magneto 44 can power two light sources 47. Similarly, one magneto 44 can power one or three or more light sources 47 with the number of light sources 47 per magneto 44 dependent on the electricity generating capacity of the magneto 44 and the power requirements of the lights sources 47. When comparing FIG. 1 to FIG. 4, it can be seen that this embodiment comprises three magnetos 44 and four light sources 47, with one magneto 44 powering two light sources 47 and two magnetos 44 powering one light source 47 each. Various configurations of magnetos 44 and light sources 47 can be included on a single powered water jet 10.

Those who are familiar with the practice of power generation utilizing magnetic fields will understand the principles of the invention. In the respective drawing figures, the power source has been illustrated as magneto 44 and fixed magnet 32. A typical magneto 44 is a coil of wire wrapped around a laminated, ferrous metal such as iron in such a way as to attract and direct the magnetic field of magnetic source 32. As the coil passes through (“cutting”) the lines of the magnetic field, a voltage potential is produced in the coil of wire. When outputs 45 of the coil are connected to an electronic device, such as light source 47, a current is produced in the completed circuit. As will be appreciated by those of skill in the art, a generator is a certain configuration of these coils (magnetos 44) constructed with a commutator and brushes, which will produce a direct current (DC) from the coils. An alternator is defined as a certain configuration of these coils (magnetos 44) that will produce an alternating current (AC) from the coils. Accordingly, the generation of either AC or DC currents are contemplated within the scope of the present invention.

For the purpose of this disclosure, the powered water jet 10 comprises a circuit, which in turn comprises a power source (the magneto 44/magnet 32 combination), a load (the light source 47 or other electrical or electronic component such as for example a sound generating device or an electrical storage device), and connecting wires and other required electrical devices (the electronics 46 that may include wires, resistors, capacitors, etcetera). It is to be understood, however, that the actual circuit can be any suitable circuit with any suitable and/or required components.

While the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 1-4 depict fixed magnet 32 and magneto 44 in a certain spatial relationship, the fixed magnetic source may alternatively be one or more magnets 32 configured on outer face 39, axle 49, or rotor 40 in such a manner as to come in close proximity to magneto 44, which would be positioned with an element associated with stationary housing 40. Magneto 44, electronics 46, and light source 47 would then be configured on one of the other parts of powered water jet 10 to complete the power generating function and lighting system. Various alternative configurations and illustrative embodiments have been schematically illustrated in FIGS. 5-10.

In FIG. 5, the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 1-4 is shown, where magnets 32 (or other magnetic source) are carried on stationary housing 20, and the magneto 44, electronics 46, and light source 47 are carried on the rotor 40. In FIG. 6, magnets 32 (or other magnetic source) are carried on the rotor 40, and magneto 44, electronics 46, and light source 47 are carried on stationary housing 20.

In FIG. 7, magnets 32 (or other magnetic source) are carried on rotary housing 20, and magneto 44, electronics 46, and light source 47 are placed on or within shaft 48 that is fixed to stationary housing 20. In FIG. 8, magnet 32 (or other magnetic source) is carried on or within shaft 48, and magneto 44, electronics 46, and light source 47 are placed on or within rotary housing 20. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, rotor 40 would then have bore 50 such that rotor 40 is received on shaft 48. It will be appreciated that by various configurations, powered water jets 10 may have elements that are carried by a rotor, the portion of the generating device that is in motion, and associated with rotor 40, and elements that are carried by a stator, the portion of the generating device that is stationary, and associated with stationary housing 20 or stationary shaft 48.

FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate alternate embodiments of the structure and configuration of jets 41 and rotors 40, with FIGS. 9A and 9B being schematic views of the invention with dual coaxial rotors 40 and FIGS. 10A and 10B being schematic views of the invention with dual rotating wheel rotors 40. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, one purpose of the counter rotating jets 41 is to achieve an effective increased speed between the two rotors 40 where the induced power will be increased for circuitry that requires it. Water W flows through each of the jet 41 or pairs of jets 41 on each of the rotors 40, with the jets 41 preferably being structured to rotate the respective rotors in different directions. For example, as shown in FIG. 9A, jets 41 on the outer rotor 40 are structured to cause the rotation of the outer rotor 40 in an anti-clockwise direction and jets 41 on the inner rotor 40 are structured to cause the rotation of the inner rotor 40 in a clockwise direction. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9A, magnets 32 are located on inner rotor 40 and magnetos 44, electronics 46, and light sources 47 are located on outer rotor 40; however, magnets 32 also can be located on outer rotor 40 and magnetos 44, electronics 46, and light sources 47 also can be located on inner rotor 40.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the rotating wheel rotors 40A are contained in a rotor 40 that itself also can be free to spin. Water W flows through each of the rotating wheel rotors 40A, with the jets 41 preferably being structure to rotate the respective rotating wheel rotors 40A in different directions. For example, as shown in FIG. 10B, the rotating wheel rotor 40A visible is rotating in an anti-clockwise direction, while the rotating wheel rotor 40A not visible (behind the visible rotating wheel rotor 40A) is rotating in a clockwise direction. However, both rotating wheel rotors 40A can be structured to rotate in the same direction. If the rotating wheel rotors 40A are structured to rotate in opposite directions, due to the force of the water jets 41 this force also causes the rotor 40 to freely rotate on its own axis, which is perpendicular to the axes of the rotating wheel rotors 40A. There are further variations on this wheel jet principle. For example, the two rotating wheel rotors 40A can be placed close enough to each other so that each rotating wheel rotor 40A could carry both a magnet 32 and a magneto 44 with light sources 47 located on each of the rotating wheel rotors 40A.

Magneto 44 may be one or more as used singularly, or one or more as a configuration of an alternator or generator, or one or more alternators or generators. Powered water jet 10 may also be configured as to have a combination of magnetos, and/or generators, and/or alternators. These configurations will be determined by the specific electrical component's power requirements, such as, for example, whether the electrical component is for lighting, sound, etc., and/or for controlling the associated electronics via a remote controlled or wireless control circuit for the powered jet functions.

In an illustrative embodiment of a jet powered light, the pattern and visual display of light sources 47 may be varied by the number and placement of magnets 32 around power generation section 31. For example, in a configuration incorporating three magnets 32 located equally about stationary housing 20, and one magneto 44 and one light source 47 on rotor 40, for each rotation of rotor 40, light source 47 can blink three times. Similarly, in a configuration incorporating one magnet 32 located on stationary housing 20, and three magnetos 44 and three light sources 47 on rotor 40, for each rotation of rotor 40, light source 47 also can blink three times. One of ordinary skill in the art can determine the number and placement of magnets 32, magnetos 44, and light sources 47 to achieve a desired lighting effect.

Using the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, powered water jet 10 also may be adapted so that it is user configurable, that is, the user may be able to vary the lighting configuration, such as illumination patterns or colors, to suit their own tastes. For example, the walls of power generation section 31 may be provided with a plurality of additional receptacles 33 that are capable of receiving additional magnets 32. The user could insert magnets 32 at a desired point in the rotational movement at which light source 47 will illuminate. This will allow the user to select any number of the points on the powered water jet 10 to place magnets 32 to control the pattern of the lighting feature. Complete removal of magnets 32 disables the power generation for the light feature of powered water jet 10. Alternatively, additional receptacles connected to electronics 46 may be provided so that the user may add additional magnetos 44 and light sources 47 to powered water jet 10. Magnetos 44 can be of a modular construction and its outputs can be electrically connected to electronics 46 by any suitable means, such as pin, spade or bullet connectors, sockets, and the like.

It also will be appreciated that magnetos 44, electronics 46, and light source 47 also may be contained in a single user adjustable and/or replaceable module, such as shown in connection with FIG. 5 (with magnets 32 attached to the stationary housing) and FIGS. 7 and 8 (with rotor 40 and shaft 48 comprising the required circuit components). Such a module can be designed by those of ordinary skill in the art to be of a structure and size to replace rotor 40, which can be removed from stationary housing 20. A mechanical attachment that can utilize a mechanical receptacle can be used to attach the module to the stationary housing 20 or to the rotor 40.

Magnets 32 (or other magnetic sources) that are mounted on powered water jet 10 at specific locations can set a predetermined number of instances power is applied to light source 47 (or another electrical component) in a given cycle of the motion. This also can define the permanent placement of where the light source is illuminated in the cycle of the motion. For example, permanent light patterns of powered water jet 10 also can be defined by the placement of light source 47 or multiple light sources 47 at select locations on or about the powered water jet 10.

The position of magnet 32 in relation to the point where magneto 44 passes through the magnetic field determines the physical point at which light source 47 illuminates. Accordingly, the number of magnets 32, magnetos 44, and light sources 47 may be configured to determine the light pattern, whether fixed or user adjustable, as determined by the placement of magnets 32 and light sources 47. The ability to arrange the placement of magnets 32, magnetos 44, or light sources 47 will allow the end user to define a desired pattern effect. For example, the placement of lights 47 can produce a “smiley-face” pattern on the face of powered water jet 10. The ability to remove all of magnets 32 will allow the end user to disable the lighting feature while the therapeutic function of the water jet 41 remains completely operational.

The light pattern may also be controlled through electronics 46 by the addition of capacitance (or some other similar electrical storage device) as an electrical storage device for storing power generated by magnetos 44. The use of capacitance and resistance (an RC time constant can be calculated) will result in a discharge of the stored power in the capacitor when the power generation by magneto 44 is removed. For example, a discharge path of the capacitor can be through the resistance (resistor) and light source 47. The result is an extended illumination that may have a fading effect of light source 47 due to the decrease in power supplied by the capacitor as it discharges. This decrease in illumination continues until the complete discharge has been achieved. Similarly, the use of a battery (or some other similar electrical storage device) charged by the magneto can allow for battery supplied electrical operation when the mechanical use of the water jet is no longer desired or is terminated.

Alternatively, a short RC time constant can result in the illumination of light source 47 to be brief upon removal of the power supplied by magneto 44. This can have a lighting effect similar to a comet with a short tail. This comet's tail length is also controlled by the speed of powered water jet 10. A longer RC time constant results in the longer illumination of light source 47 upon removal of the power supplied by magneto 44. This can have a lighting effect similar to a comet with a long tail. The RC time constant also may be increased to the point where the discharge of the stored power will not complete prior to the next time the power is supplied by magneto 44. The supplied power by magneto 44 recharges the C storage component of the RC network, the result of which may appear as a constant light source. Variations of electronics 46 may be configured on a user replaceable module so that the desired light pattern may be obtained by changing out the replaceable module with a module having an electronic circuit for a different light pattern. As with the user selectable magnetos 44, electronics 46 can be configured in any suitable manner, such as with pin, spade, bullet connectors and the like.

It will be appreciated that electronics 46 and other electrical components of the present invention will be suitably sealed and isolated so as to avoid a shock hazard and to avoid infiltration of water and consequent corrosion or interference with the conductive pathways.

The speed of rotor 40 also will determine the lighting pattern and intensity. The volume of water forced into jet 41 controls this speed. The end user will most likely have the ability to control the volume of water passing through jet 41 using a variable flow valve, as such are common with rotary jets. Lighting intensity may also increase as the speed at which the magnetic fields cut by magneto 44 is increased. The number of times light source 47 illuminates at a given point in the light pattern also increases as jet 41 speed increases. As discharging time of a capacitor storage component in a RC network is constant, an increase in speed of the movement will increase the number of charging instances during that time constant. Basically, the time between charging events decreases as the speed of the motion increases. The increase in power and the increase in the number of charging instances will affect the lighting as disclosed above, such as a comet with tail in one example to an appearance of a constant light source in another example.

Thus, one illustrative embodiment of the invention is a powered water jet 10 for a spa comprising a stationary housing 20, a rotor 40 rotationally mounted in the stationary housing, and at least one jet 41 for inducing rotational movement in the rotor 40, the improvement comprising at least one magnet 32 attached to the stationary housing 20; at least one magneto 44 attached to the rotor 40 at a point that passes through a magnetic field of the magnet 32 during rotational movement of the rotor 40; and electronics 46 electrically attached to an output of the magneto 44.

Another illustrative embodiment of the invention is a powered water jet 10 for a spa comprising a stationary housing 20, a rotor 40 rotationally mounted in the stationary housing, and at least one jet 41 for inducing rotational movement in the rotor 40, the improvement comprising at least one magnet 32 attached to the rotor 40, at least one magneto 44 attached to the stationary housing 20 at a point where a magnetic field of the magnet 32 passes during rotational movement of the rotor 40; and electronics 46 attached to an output of the magneto 44.

Another illustrative embodiment of the invention is a powered water jet 10 for a spa comprising a stationary housing 20, at least two rotors 40 rotationally mounted in the stationary housing, and at least one jet 41 for inducing rotational movement in at least one of the rotors 40, the improvement comprising at least one magnet 32 attached to at least one of the rotors 40; at least one magneto 44 attached to the stationary housing 20 at a point where a magnetic field of the magnet 32 passes during rotational movement of the rotor(s) 40; and electronics 46 attached to an output of the magneto 44. In this embodiment, the jet 41 can be on one of the rotors 40 while another one of the rotors 40 can be analogous to a turbine and located between the fluid passage 22 and the jet 41. Each or one of the rotors 40 can comprise magnet(s) 32 cooperating with magneto(s) 44 on the stationary housing, or can comprise magneto(s) 44 cooperating with magnet(s) 32 on the stationary housing.

Another illustrative embodiment of the invention is a powered water jet 10 for a spa comprising a stationary housing 20, at least one rotor 40 rotationally mounted in the stationary housing, and at least one non-rotating jet 41, the improvement comprising at least one magnet 32 attached to the rotor 40; at least one magneto 44 attached to the stationary housing 20 at a point where a magnetic field of the magnet 32 passes during rotational movement of the rotor 40; and electronics 46 attached to an output of the magneto 44. In this embodiment, the jet 41 can be stationary or otherwise adjustable while another one of the rotors 40 can be analogous to a turbine and located between the fluid passage 22 and the jet 41. Each of the rotors 40 can comprise magnet(s) 32 cooperating with magneto(s) 44 on the stationary housing, or can comprise magneto(s) 44 cooperating with magnet(s) 32 on the stationary housing.

Another illustrative embodiment of the invention is a powered water jet for a spa comprising a stationary housing; at least two rotating fluid jets rotationally mounted in the stationary housing; at least one magnet attached to a first of the rotating fluid jets and at least one magneto attached to a second of the rotating fluid jets, the at least one magnet being located at a point where a magnetic field of the at least one magnet cooperates with the at least one magneto during rotational movement of the rotating fluid jets; and electrical circuitry attached to an output of the at least one magneto, wherein fluid flowing through the rotating fluid jets causes the rotating fluid jets to rotate in rotational directions opposite to each other and the rotational movement of the at least one magnet relative to the at least one magneto produces electrical energy.

Another illustrative embodiment of the invention is a powered water jet for a spa comprising a stationary housing; at least one rotor mounted in the stationary housing; at least two fluid jets rotationally mounted in the rotor; at least one magnet attached to at least one of the at least two fluid jets or to the at least one rotor and at least one magneto attached to the at least one rotor or to at least one of the at least two fluid jets, respectively, the at least one magnet being located at a point where a magnetic field of the at least one magnet cooperates with the at least one magneto during rotational movement of the at least two fluid jets; and electrical circuitry attached to an output of the at least one magneto, wherein the rotational movement of the at least one magnet relative to the at least one magneto produces electrical energy. This embodiment can further comprise at least one magnet attached to the stationary housing or to the rotor and at least one magneto attached to the rotor or to the stationary housing, respectively, the at least one magnet being located at a point where a magnetic field of the at least one magnet cooperates with the at least one magneto during rotational movement of the rotor.

Each of these illustrative embodiments, as well as other embodiments, can further comprise at least one user selectable receptacle for receiving at least one additional magnet 32 according to a user preference. Alternatively or additionally, each of these illustrative embodiments, as well as other embodiments, can further comprise a user replaceable module that comprises the magneto 44, light source 47 (or other electric or electronic component), and electronics 46. In each of the preferred embodiments, light sources 47 (or other electrical or electronic devices) preferably are located on the rotor 40 comprising the jet(s) 41 or on the stationary housing 20.

Additional circuitry for voltage regulation or detection (such as a zener diode) can be implemented into the electronics 46 and can be used to determine the level of voltage at which light source 47 will begin to illuminate. Note that as the speed of magneto 44 passing through the magnetic field increases, the power generated also increases. Therefore, this configuration would allow for light source 47 to be “turned off” at low rates of powered water jet 10 motion and enabled at higher rates of motion. As the control of the volume of water forced into powered water jet 10 is variable and often can be varied by the user, this function also controls the point at which the light source 47 feature is enable.

As can be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, light source 47 can be replaced with a sound source, capacitor or battery (or other electrical energy storing device), charging circuitry, or another electrical or electronic device or circuitry, or combinations of such sources and/or devices. The above description is applicable to such other sources, devices, and combinations. Similarly, if an electrical energy storage device is incorporated into the invention, the magneto can be used to charge the electrical storage device for purpose of operating the electronics when rotor 40 is not turning.

Powered water jet 10 is readily adaptable as an after market addition to an existing spa, pool or tub, due to the fact that the end user generally has the ability to remove previously installed jets for maintenance purposes. The end user can remove the original jet without the power generating feature and replace it with a powered water jet 10 that has, for example, light source 47, or a sound source, or a combination light and sound source. The user can purchase several powered water jets 10 of different color light schemes (or sound schemes or combinations), or several user replaceable modules of different color light schemes (or sound schemes or combinations), so that future selections of a desired lighting color (or sound or combinations) may be installed, and the different water powered jets 10 or user replaceable modules can be substituted as desired. This could be for setting a certain lighting (or sound) mood, matching the lighting with decor changes, or selecting your favorite sports team's colors while watching the game or match on the television. This also applies to the powered water jets 10 having removable, arrangeable and replaceable electronics modules as previously disclosed.

The foregoing detailed description of the preferred embodiments and the appended figures have been presented only for illustrative and descriptive purposes and are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope and spirit of the invention. The embodiments were selected and described to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that many variations can be made to the invention disclosed in this specification without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention according to the appended claims.

Claims

1. In a water jet for a spa comprising a stationary housing and at least one rotating fluid jet rotationally mounted in the stationary housing, the improvement comprising:

a) at least one magnet attached to the stationary housing;

b) at least one magneto attached to the rotating fluid jet at a point that passes through a magnetic field of the magnet during rotational movement of the rotating fluid jet; and

c) electrical circuitry electrically attached to an output of the magneto.

2. The water jet of claim 1, wherein the electrical circuitry comprises a light source.

3. The water jet of claim 1, wherein the stationary housing comprises at least one user selectable receptacle for receiving at least one additional magnet according to a user preference.

4. The water jet of claim 1, wherein the rotating fluid jet further comprises at least one user selectable receptacle, coupled to the electrical circuitry, for receiving at least one additional magneto according to a user preference.

5. The water jet of claim 1, wherein the electrical circuitry is contained on a user replaceable module.

6. The water jet of claim 2, wherein the electrical circuitry is contained on a user replaceable module and the electrical circuitry defines a specified illumination pattern for the light source.

7. The water jet of claim 1, wherein the stationary housing further comprises a shaft and the rotating fluid jet is mounted for coaxial rotation about the shaft.

8. The water jet of claim 7, wherein the at least one magnet is contained within the shaft and the electrical circuitry is contained in the rotor.

9. In a water jet for a spa comprising a stationary housing and at least one rotating fluid jet rotationally mounted in the stationary housing, the improvement comprising:

a) at least one magnet attached to the rotating fluid jet;

b) at least one magneto attached to the stationary housing at a point where a magnetic field of the magnet passes during rotational movement of the rotating fluid jet; and

c) electrical circuitry attached to an output of the magneto.

10. The water jet of claim 9, wherein the electrical circuitry comprises a light source.

11. The water jet of claim 9, wherein the rotating fluid jet comprises at least one user selectable receptacle for receiving at least one additional magnet according to a user preference.

12. The water jet of claim 9, wherein the stationary housing further comprises at least one user selectable receptacle, coupled to the electrical circuitry, for receiving at least one additional magneto according to a user preference.

13. The water jet of claim 9, wherein the electrical circuitry is contained on a user replaceable module.

14. The water jet of claim 10, wherein the electrical circuitry is contained on a user replaceable module and the electrical circuitry defines a specified illumination pattern for the light source.

15. The water jet of claim 9, wherein the stationary housing further comprises a shaft and the rotating fluid jet is mounted for coaxial rotation about the shaft.

16. The improved water jet of claim 15, wherein the at least one magneto and the electrical circuitry are contained within the shaft.

17. A water jet for a spa comprising:

a) a stationary housing;

b) a rotating fluid jet rotationally mounted in the stationary housing;

c) at least one magnet attached to the stationary housing or to the rotating fluid jet and at least one magneto attached to the rotating fluid jet or to the stationary housing, respectively, the at least one magnet being located at a point where a magnetic field of the at least one magnet cooperates with the at least one magneto during rotational movement of the rotating fluid jet; and

d) electrical circuitry attached to an output of the at least one magneto,

wherein the rotational movement of the at least one magnet relative to the at least one magneto produces electrical energy.

18. The water jet of claim 17, further comprising electrical circuitry powered by the electrical energy.

19. The water jet of claim 18, wherein the electrical circuitry comprises a light source.

20. The water jet of claim 18, wherein the stationary housing further comprises at least one connector having an electrical connection for allowing transmission of the electrical energy to a user replaceable module containing the electrical circuitry.

21. The water jet of claim 18, wherein the rotating fluid jet further comprises at least one connector having an electrical connection for allowing transmission of the electrical energy to a user replaceable module containing the electrical circuitry.

22. A water jet for a spa comprising:

a) a stationary housing;

b) a fluid jet;

c) at least one rotor rotationally mounted in the stationary housing;

d) at least one magnet attached to the stationary housing or to the at least one rotor and at least one magneto attached to the at least one rotor or to the stationary housing, respectively, the at least one magnet being located at a point where a magnetic field of the at least one magnet cooperates with the at least one magneto during rotational movement of the rotor; and

e) electrical circuitry attached to an output of the at least one magneto,

wherein the rotational movement of the at least one magnet relative to the at least one magneto produces electrical energy.

23. The water jet of claim 22, further comprising electrical circuitry powered by the electrical energy.

24. The water jet of claim 23, wherein the electrical circuitry comprises a light source.

25. The water jet of claim 23, wherein the stationary housing further comprises at least one connector having an electrical connection for allowing transmission of the electrical energy to a user replaceable module containing the electrical circuitry.

26. The water jet of claim 23, wherein the rotor further comprises at least one connector having an electrical connection for allowing transmission of the electrical energy to a user replaceable module containing the electrical circuitry.

27. A water jet for a spa comprising:

a) a stationary housing;

b) at least two rotating fluid jets rotationally mounted in the stationary housing;

c) at least one magnet attached to a first of the rotating fluid jets and at least one magneto attached to a second of the rotating fluid jets, the at least one magnet being located at a point where a magnetic field of the at least one magnet cooperates with the at least one magneto during rotational movement of the rotating fluid jets; and

d) electrical circuitry attached to an output of the at least one magneto,

wherein fluid flowing through the rotating fluid jets causes the rotating fluid jets to rotate in rotational directions opposite to each other and the rotational movement of the at least one magnet relative to the at least one magneto produces electrical energy.

28. The water jet of claim 27, further comprising electrical circuitry powered by the electrical energy.

29. The water jet of claim 28, wherein the electrical circuitry comprises a light source.

30. A water jet for a spa comprising:

a) a stationary housing;

b) at least one rotor mounted in the stationary housing;

c) at least two fluid jets rotationally mounted in the rotor;

d) at least one magnet attached to at least one of the at least two fluid jets or to the at least one rotor and at least one magneto attached to the at least one rotor or to at least one of the at least two fluid jets, respectively, the at least one magnet being located at a point where a magnetic field of the at least one magnet cooperates with the at least one magneto during rotational movement of the at least two fluid jets; and

e) electrical circuitry attached to an output of the at least one magneto,

wherein the rotational movement of the at least one magnet relative to the at least one magneto produces electrical energy.

31. The water jet of claim 30, further comprising electrical circuitry powered by the electrical energy.

32. The water jet of claim 31, wherein the electrical circuitry comprises a light source.

33. The water jet of claim 30, wherein the at least one rotor is mounted rotationally in the stationary housing.

34. The water jet of claim 33, further comprising at least one magnet attached to the stationary housing or to the rotor and at least one magneto attached to the rotor or to the stationary housing, respectively, the at least one magnet being located at a point where a magnetic field of the at least one magnet cooperates with the at least one magneto during rotational movement of the rotor.

35. The water jet of claim 30, wherein the at least one rotor further comprises at least one connector having an electrical connection for allowing transmission of the electrical energy to a user replaceable module containing the electrical circuitry.