APPARATUS, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MULTI-FUNCTION INTELLIGENT SPA CONTROL

Abstract

An apparatus, system, and method involving controlling a spa system having a basin for holding a fluid are provided. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes an electronics control portion for receiving inputs from an operator of the spa system and for generating signals in response to the inputs that are received from the operator. In addition the apparatus includes a fluid mixing portion that receives the fluid from a supply and outputs the received fluid into the basin of the spa system. Moreover, the electronics control portion controls a temperature of the fluid in the fluid mixing portion in response to one of the inputs received from the operator.

Description

PRIORITY DATA

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/224,970 filed on Jul. 13, 2009, entitled “APPARATUS, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MULTI-FUNCTION INTELLIGENT SPA CONTROL,” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference.”

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to control of spa systems. More particularly, the invention relates to multi-function intelligent control of pedicure spa systems.

BACKGROUND

Spa systems, in particular, pedicure spa systems are becoming increasingly advanced with more and more functions being added thereto. Bacteria and viruses in the tub of pedicure spa systems is a health concern. Therefore, it is beneficial to have a sanitization feature that can sanitize the tub of the pedicure spa system. In addition, a jet pump is often desirable in a pedicure spa system to disturb the fluid that is in the tub of the pedicure spa system. In that regard, a control mechanism for the jet pump is desirable. Moreover, the temperature of the water for pedicure spa systems is challenging to regulate when performed by an operator. Therefore, it is beneficial to have a temperature sensing mechanism that can monitor the temperature of the water and provide feedback that can then be used to regulate the temperature of water into the tub. Also, additional lighting for the operator of the pedicure spa system (or technician providing pedicure services) is desirable. Moreover, having a water level sensor that can sense the level of water in the tub is desirable to ensure that the tub has a predetermined level of water therein. In this regard, the water level sensor is helpful to make sure the jet pump is not operating while the water level is below the jet pump. Also, the water level sensor is helpful to determine when the water level has reached a particular height with respect to the tub. Moreover, for drainage of the tub of a pedicure spa system it may be desirable or necessary to have a drainage pump that can remove the used water. In that regard, a control mechanism for the drainage pump is desirable.

It is desirable for pedicure spa systems to have the features noted above. An implementation having these features will entail control mechanisms, sensing, and monitoring requirements. Accordingly, what is desirable is a pedicure spa system that implements the features noted above and includes an integrated controller to control such features. Moreover, also desirable is a controller that is scalable so that it can be used to control many of the features noted above, or just a few of the features noted above. Also desirable is that the controller be partitionable in a manner so that only one partition is needed for retrofitting existing pedicure spa systems without requiring another partition of the controller.

SUMMARY

One of the broader forms of the invention involves an apparatus for controlling a spa system having a basin for holding a fluid. The apparatus includes an electronics control portion for receiving inputs from an operator of the spa system and for generating signals in response to the inputs that are received from the operator; a fluid mixing portion that receives the fluid from a supply and outputs the received fluid into the basin of the spa system. The electronics control portion controls a temperature of the fluid in the fluid mixing portion in response to one of the inputs received from the operator.

Another of the broader forms of the invention involves a system. The system includes a tub that includes a basin for containing fluid; an operator interface for receiving inputs from an operator, the operator interface having a temperature setting switch for setting a desired temperature of the fluid that is to be filled in the basin; a jet pump disposed in the basin that disturbs the fluid in the basin; a fluid chamber that receives fluid from a supply, the fluid chamber having a temperature sensing portion that senses the temperature of the fluid therein; and a control portion that: receives information from the temperature sensing portion and controls the supply of fluid into the fluid chamber in response to the desired temperature set by the operator; and controls the jet pump in response to the operator engaging a corresponding input on the operator interface.

Yet another of the broader forms of the invention involves a method for controlling a spa system having a control chamber, a fluid chamber, and a tub. The method includes receiving fluid from an input section of the fluid chamber; mixing the fluid in the fluid chamber; receiving a desired temperature setting input from an operator, the desired temperature setting input being a desired temperature of the fluid after mixing the fluid in the fluid chamber; outputting the mixed fluid in the tub; monitoring the temperature of the fluid that is in the fluid chamber; and in response to the desired temperature setting input and the temperature of the fluid in the fluid chamber, controlling the fluid that is received at the input section of the fluid chamber in a manner so that the fluid being received is mixed in the fluid chamber to achieve the desired temperature.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a pedicure spa system in which various embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented;

FIG. 2A is a pedicure spa system that is an alternative embodiment to the pedicure spa system shown in FIG. 1, and also in which various embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented;

FIG. 2B shows two pedicure spa systems of FIG. 2A each having attached thereto a seat and an entertainment unit;

FIG. 3 is a detailed view of the basin of the pedicure spa system shown in FIG. 2A;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a control system that can be implemented for each of the pedicure spa systems of FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic representation of an embodiment of the control system shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a perspective top-side view of the embodiment of the control system shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is another perspective top-side view of the embodiment of the control system shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is a perspective bottom-side view of the embodiment of the control system shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 9A illustrates a portion of a pedicure spa system that is an alternative to the pedicure spa systems of FIGS. 1 and 2; and

FIG. 9B is a more detailed view of the remote water level sensor that is shown in the portion of the pedicure spa system of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 10 illustrates a pedicure spa system that is an alternative configuration of the pedicure spa system shown in FIG. 1, and also in which various embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a pedicure spa system 20 in which embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented. The pedicure spa system 20 includes a tub 23. The tub 23 includes a basin 24 that is designed to hold water during operation of the pedicure spa system 20 by an operator. It is understood that the tub 23 may be formed of various materials suitable for holding water and may be sized according to a particular design requirement. The basin 24 includes foot rests 25 for receiving feet of a user that is receiving services from the operator. The basin 24 further includes a drain stopper 28 that can be shut to allow the basin 24 to fill with water. Also, the drain stopper 28 can be opened to allow water in the basin 24 to be drained out and removed. In addition, the basin 23 includes an overflow and drain opener/closer 29 that functions to remove undesirable levels of water from the basin 24, and also opens and closes the drain stopper 28 when turned. Moreover, the basin 24 includes a light 30 that provides lighting under the water that fills the basin 24 in operation.

The tub 23 also includes a waterfall feature 34 from which water pours out of and into the basin 24. In addition, the tub 23 includes a faucet 35 for turning on and off the water that flows from the waterfall 34 and into the basin 24. In particular, the faucet 35 is controlled by an operator of the pedicure spa system 20. The operator may adjust the temperature of the water by turning the handle of the faucet 35 in either a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. The tub 23 further includes a discharge air switch 38 that is used to drain the basin 24 of the tub 23. The discharge air switch 38 activates a discharge pump (not shown) that is typically located underneath the tub 23. Also, the tub 23 includes a jet switch 39 that turns on and off a jet pump (not shown) that is used to generate jet streams of water within the basin 24. In addition, the tub 23 includes a foot pad 40 that a user can use to rest their feet on while receiving pedicure services from the operator or technician.

FIG. 2A illustrates a pedicure spa system 60 that is an alternative embodiment to the pedicure spa system 20 shown in FIG. 1, and also in which various embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented. Similar features in FIGS. 1 and 2 are numbered the same for the sake of clarity and simplicity, and the following discussion focuses primarily on the differences. The pedicure spa system 60 includes a shower tub 61 that is similar to the tub 23 of FIG. 1. However, the spa system 60 includes a shower wand 65 that is used by an operator to shower the feet of a user with water. Referring also to FIG. 3, illustrated is a detailed view of the basin 24 of the pedicure spa system 61 including a jet pump 66 (which was not shown in the pedicure spa system 20 of FIG. 1). The jet pump 66 disturbs the water disposed in the basin 24 and generates a stream or jet of water, and in some instances, air as well.

Now referring back to FIG. 2A, the spa system 60 includes a technician light 67 that is used by the operator when performing pedicure services on a user. The technician light 67 is powered by a direct current (DC) power supply. In alternative embodiments the technician light is powered by an AC power supply. The spa system 60 also includes a display and control interface 68 instead of the faucet 35 of FIG. 1. The display and control interface 68 displays information such as the temperature of the water that enters the basin 24 via the waterfall feature 34. In addition, the display and control interface 68 allows the operator to control certain features of the pedicure spa system 60. For example, the display and control interface 68 includes buttons for increasing and decreasing the temperature of the water that comes out of the waterfall feature 34 and enters the basin 24. In addition, the display and control interface 68 has a power button for turning on and off power to the pedicure spa system 60. Moreover, the display and control interface 68 includes buttons for turning on and off the discharge pump air switch 38 and the jet pump air switch 39.

FIG. 2B shows two pedicure spa systems 60 of FIG. 2A each having attached thereto a chair 80 and an entertainment unit 82. In particular, the chair 80 and entertainment unit 82 is attached to the tub 61. The chair 80 seats a user of the pedicure spa system of FIG. 2A. The seat 80 is aesthetically designed for a young user of the pedicure spa system 60. In addition, the entertainment unit 82 provides entertainment to the young user of the pedicure spa system 60 while they are seated in the chair 80.

FIG. 4 a block diagram of an embodiment of a control system 100 that can be implemented for each of the respective pedicure spa systems 20 and 60 of FIGS. 1 and 2. The control system 100 includes a water mixing chamber 104, and an electronics and firmware chamber 105. It should be noted the water mixing chamber 104 may replace the manually operated faucet 35 of FIG. 1. The water mixing chamber 104 includes a cold water input port 109 and a hot water input port 110. The cold and hot water input ports 109 and 110 receive cold water and hot water sources, respectively, piped in from an external source (not shown) such as a water supply system. The water mixing chamber 104 also includes a sanitizer mechanism 113. In operation, the sanitizer mechanism 113 injects sanitization ions into the water in the mixing chamber 104. The water may be transferred into the basin 24 of the tubs 23 (FIG. 1) and 61 (FIG. 2A), and the injected sanitization ions may kill the bacteria and viruses that are present in the basin. It is understood that other types of sanitizing mechanisms may be used such as an ozone sanitizer.

The water mixing chamber 104 also includes a temperature sensor 114 that senses the temperature in the water mixing chamber 104. Also, the water mixing chamber 104 includes two mixed water output ports 118 and 119. The mixed water output ports 118, 119 outputs therefrom the water that is mixed in the water mixing chamber 104.

The electronics and firmware chamber 105 includes a power supply input 134 for receiving power such as 120V/220V alternating current (AC) power. The electronics and firmware chamber 105 also includes a power indicator 135 that lights up to indicate whether power is being provided from the power input 134. The electronics and firmware chamber 105 includes a continuous power output port 136 that provides continuous power that may be used by the pedicure spa systems 20 and 60 of FIGS. 1 and 2, respectively. The electronics and firmware chamber 105 further includes a cold water valve control output 139 and a hot water valve control output 140 that are respectively coupled to valves (not shown) that are operable to control the flow of cold and hot water into the water mixing chamber 104 via cold and hot water input ports 109 and 110. Accordingly, the temperature of the water in the water mixing chamber 104 can be controlled and set to a desired temperature as will be explained in detail below.

In addition, the electronics and firmware chamber 105 includes jet pump power supply output ports 144, 145 and a discharge pump power supply output port 146. The power supply output ports 144-146 are alternating current (AC) power supply output ports. In alternative embodiments one of the AC power supply output ports 144-146 can be used for supplying power to a technician light that runs off of AC power, while the other two AC power supply output ports 144-146 can be used to supply power to a jet pump and a discharge pump. Moreover, in other embodiments any of the power supply output ports 144-146 can be used for supplying power to other devices that power off of AC power. Moreover, the electronics and firmware chamber 105 further includes a jet pump switch 150 and a jet discharge switch 151. The jet pump and discharge pump switches 150, 151 are for respectively turning on and off power to the jet power supply output ports 144, 145 and the discharge pump power supply output port 146. Moreover, the electronics and firmware chamber 105 includes a temperature sensor input 155 that is coupled to the temperature sensor 114. The temperature sensor input 155 receives a signal from the temperature sensor 114 that corresponds to the temperature of the water in the water mixing chamber 104. The electronics and firmware chamber 105 also includes a display and control function 156 that is coupled to the display and control interface 68 of the pedicure spa systems 20 and 60 of FIGS. 1 and 2, respectively. The display and control function 156 receives signals from the display and control interface 68 in response to operator interaction. In addition, the display and control function 156 supplies signals to the display and control interface 68 for providing and displaying information, such as water temperature, to the operator.

Furthermore, the electronics and firmware chamber 105 includes a temperature setting switch 157 that is coupled to the display and control interface 68. The temperature setting switch 157 receives signals from the display and control interface 68 in response to the operator adjusting the water temperature by depressing buttons that control the water temperature. In addition, the electronics and firmware chamber 105 has a water level sensor input 160 for receiving a signal from a water level sensor (not shown) that is a remote sensor that is typically installed on the outer surface of the basin 24 of the pedicure spa systems 20 (FIG. 1) and 60 (FIG. 2A). The water level sensor detects the water level through wall of the basin 24. The water level sensor supplies a signal to the water level sensor input 160 of the electronics and firmware chamber 105 that controls the cold and hot water input ports 109 and 110.

The signal supplied to the water level sensor input 160 indicates the water level in the basin 24. The electronics and firmware chamber 105 also includes light power supply outputs 164 and 165. The power supply outputs 164 and 165 are DC power supply outputs. One of the power supply outputs 164, 165 is used for supplying power to the light 30 in the basin 24 of the pedicure spa systems 20 and 60 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, respectively. The other of the power supply outputs 164, 165 is used for supplying power to the technician light 67 of the spa system 60 in FIG. 2A. Moreover, in other embodiments the power supply outputs 164, 165 can be used for supplying power to other devices that power off of DC power. Additionally, the electronics and firmware chamber 105 includes a water sanitizer controller 166 that controls the sanitizer mechanism 113 of the water mixing chamber 104.

Referring now to FIGS. 5-8, illustrated are different views of a diagrammatic representation of an embodiment 180 of the control system 100 of FIG. 4. In particular, FIG. 5 is a top down view of the embodiment 180 of the control system shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a perspective top-side view of the embodiment 180 shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a top-side view of the embodiment 180 shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 8 is a perspective bottom-side view of the embodiment 180 shown in FIG. 5.

The control system 180 includes a casing 184 that houses a water mixing/sanitizing chamber such as the one 104 described in FIG. 4. Also, the control system 180 includes another casing 185 that houses an electronic/firmware chamber such as the one 105 described in FIG. 4. It is understood that the electronic/firmware chamber includes circuitry that provides a suitable operating environment for monitoring and controlling the various features of the spa system. The casings 184 and 185 are coupled by a detachable coupling member 186. The coupling member 186 is detachable from the casings 184 and 185 so that either of the casings 184 and 185 and the respective chambers can be used independently. For example, an operator desiring to retrofit or upgrade an existing spa system with only one of the casings 184, 185 is able to do so without having to purchase both casings. The casings 184 and 185 have securing members 198,190 and 193, 194, respectively, that are used to fasten and secure the corresponding casing to the bottom of the pedicure spa systems 20 and 60 respectively shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

The casing 184 includes connector valves 200 and 201 that are coupled between the respective cold and hot water inputs, such as the ones 109 and 110 described in FIG. 4, and cold and hot water supplies. Each of the connector valves 200 and 201 respectively regulates the flow of cold and hot water from the respective cold and hot water supplies and into the water mixing/sanitizing chamber. The casing 184 also includes an ionizer sanitizer 205 that has electrodes 206 and 207 that extend into the water mixing/sanitizing chamber. Each of the electrodes 206 and 207 also extend out of the casing 184 and are coupled to outputs of the electronic/firmware chamber. Accordingly, electrical signals sent from the electronic/firmware chamber may energize the electrodes 206 and 207. In turn, the ionizer sanitizer 205 injects sanitization ions into the water disposed within the water mixing/sanitizing chamber of casing 184. The water is flowed into the tub and these injected sanitization ions kill the bacteria and viruses present in the tub.

The casing 184 further includes a temperature sensor 210 that has thermo-coupling probes 211 and 212 that extend into the water mixing/sanitizing chamber of casing 184 and contact the water disposed therein. The thermo-coupling probes 211 and 212 also extend out of the casing 184 and are coupled to an electrical contact of the casing 185 for transmitting temperature sensor data to the electronic/firmware chamber.

The casing 184 also includes output water connectors 215 and 216 that respectively function as mixed water output ports such as the ones 118 and 119 described in FIG. 4. The output connectors 215 and 216 are coupled to or are integral with tubing (not shown) for supplying the mixed water to various component of the spa system. For example, the output water connector 215 supplies mixed water to the shower wand 65 of pedicure spa system 60 of FIG. 2A. The output water connector 216 supplies mixed water into the basin 24 via the waterfall feature 34 of the pedicure spa systems 20 and 60 of FIGS. 1 and 2, respectively.

The casing 185 includes a power cord 224 that has a three-pronged male connector for connecting to a 120V AC wall outlet. In alternative embodiments, the power cord 224 can have a male connector for connecting to a 220V AC wall outlet. The power cord 224 provides power to a power supply input such as the one 134 described in FIG. 4. The casing 185 further includes an LED 225 that functions as a power indicator such as the one 135 described in FIG. 4. The LED 225 lights up when power is supplied to the electronic/firmware chamber of casing 185. In addition, the casing 185 includes a continuous power outlet 226 that functions as a continuous power output port such as the one 136 described in FIG. 4 to supply continuous AC power that may be needed by other components in the pedicure spa systems 20 and 60 of FIGS. 1 and 2, respectively.

Moreover, the casing 185 includes electrical connectors 230 and 231 that function to respectively provide signals that regulate the flow of cold and hot water into the water mixing/sanitizing chamber via the cold and hot water valve connectors 200 and 201. Furthermore, the casing 185 includes jet pump AC power outlets 235 and 236 that respectively function as jet pump power supply output ports such as the ones 144 and 145 described in FIG. 4. The casing 185 further includes a discharge pump AC power outlet 237 that functions as a discharge pump power supply output port such as the one 146 described in FIG. 4. In alternative embodiments a technician light that is powered off of AC power can be coupled to one of the AC power outlets 235-237. Also, in other embodiments the AC power outlets 235-237 can be connected to other devices that run off of AC power. Moreover, the casing 185 includes a discharge pump air switch 240 that functions as a discharge pump switch such as the one 151 described in FIG. 4. The discharge pump air switch 240 turns on and off the discharge pump feature of the pedicure spa systems 20 and 60 of FIGS. 1 and 2, respectively. Further, the casing 185 includes a jet and light air switch 241 that functions as a jet pump switch such as the one 150 described in FIG. 4. The jet and light air switch 241 turns on and off the jet pump feature of the pedicure spa systems 20 and 60 of FIGS. 1 and 2, respectively.

The casing 185 includes a temperature sensor electronic connector 245 that functions as a temperature sensor input such as the one 155 described in FIG. 4 and receives signals from the temperature sensor 210. The temperature sensor electronic connector 245 provides connection to wires that are coupled to the temperature sensor probes 211 and 212 for receiving the temperature sensing signals from the temperature sensor 210. In addition, the casing 185 includes a display and control electrical connector 246 that functions as a display and control feature such as the one 156 described in FIG. 4. The display and control electrical connector 246 couples to a display and control interface 247 that functions as a display and control interface such as the one 68 described in FIG. 2A. The casing 185 further includes a temperature setting switch connector 251 that mates a temperature setting switch, such as the one 157 described in FIG. 4, to the display and control interface 247. When coupled to the display and control interface 247, the temperature setting switch connector 251 receives temperature setting inputs from the operator via the display and control interface 247. In turn, the electronics/firmware chamber processes the temperature setting input and generates control signals to change the amount of cold and hot water that is supplied into the water mixing/sanitizing chamber of casing 184. In this manner, the operator can accurately change the temperature of the water that is supplied into the basin 24 of the pedicure spa system 60 shown in FIG. 2A. It should be noted that the pedicure spa system 20 shown in FIG. 1 can be retrofitted with this feature in place of the manually operated faucet 35 for better control of the water temperature in the basin.

Similarly, the casing 185 includes a water level sensor electrical connector 252 that functions as a water level sensor input, such as the one 160 described in FIG. 4, for receiving a signal from a water level sensor (not shown) that is installed on the outer surface of the basin 24 of the pedicure spa system 60 of FIG. 2A. The water level sensor electrical connector 252 is coupled to a pair of wires that connect to the water level sensor disposed in the basin 24. The water level sensor electrical connector 252 receives signals that indicate the level of the water in the basin 24. In particular, the signals indicate whether the water has filled up to a predetermined height along the basin 24. In this regard, the electronic and firmware chamber receives these signals from the water level sensor electrical connector 252 and processes them to determine whether more or less water is needed in the basin 24. If more water is needed, the electronics/firmware chamber may generate controls signals to flow more water into the water mixing/sanitizing chamber and supplied into the basin 24 until the proper water level is achieved in the basin.

The casing 185 further includes light power outlets 256 and 257 that function as light power supply outputs such as the ones 164 and 165 described in FIG. 4. The power supply outlets 256, 257 are DC power supply outlets. Referring back FIG. 2A, one of the DC power supply outlets 256, 257 is coupled to the technician light 67 of the spa system 60. In alternative embodiments, the DC power supply outlets 256, 257 may be coupled to other devices that run off of DC power. In addition, the casing 185 includes a sanitizer electrical connector 258 that functions to couple a water sanitizer controller to a sanitizer mechanism such as the ones 166 and 113 described in FIG. 4, respectively. The sanitizer electrical connector 258 couples wires between the water sanitizer controller and the sanitizer mechanism. The wires supply signals from the sanitizer controller to the sanitizer electrodes 206, 207. These signals control the electrodes 206, 207 for altering the amount of ionization of the water in the water mixing/sanitizing chamber, and therefore changing sanitization levels of the water being mixed therein.

As best seen in FIG. 8, the casing 184 has securing members 270 and 271. Moreover, the casing 185 has securing members 272 and 273. By fastening the securing members 270-273 to the coupling member 186, each of the casings 184, 185 are coupled together via the coupling member 186. In this manner, the casings 184 and 184 are coupled to provide a unit that can be attached to the underside of the pedicure spa system 60 of FIG. 2A. Also, the casing 185 can be independently coupled to the underneath of the pedicure spa system of FIGS. 1 and 2, separate from the casing 184. This is particularly advantageous when the functionality of the water mixing/sanitizing chamber is unnecessary or undesirable, but the features of the electronic/firmware chamber are desirable.

Referring to FIGS. 2, 3 and 5, an explanation is now provided of the spa control system 180 (FIG. 5) being configured for the pedicure spa system 60 (FIG. 2A). The spa control system 180 is mounted to the underside of the pedicure spa system 60. Screws that extend through securing members 189, 190, 193, and 194 are screwed into the underside of the pedicure spa system 60 to securely fasten the spa control system 180. The cold and hot water valve connectors 200, 201 are coupled by hoses or other suitable tubing to respective cold and hot water sources of an external water supply system (not shown). Moreover, the mixed water connector 215 is coupled by a hose or other suitable tubing to the shower wand 65 and the mixed water connector 216 is coupled by a hose to the waterfall feature 34. Also, the discharge pump switch 240 is coupled to the discharge pump air switch 38 and the jet and light air switch 241 is coupled to the jet pump air switch 39. Moreover, the discharge pump (not shown) that is disposed underneath the tub 23 includes a power cord that is coupled to the discharge pump AC power outlet 237. In addition, the jet pump 66 includes a power cord that is coupled to one of the jet pump AC power outlets 235, 236.

The temperature sensor 210 is coupled to the temperature sensor electrical connector 245 with electrical wires. The electrical wires receive signals from the temperature sensor 210 for processing by the electronic/firmware chamber. In addition, the ionizer sanitizer 205 is coupled to the sanitizer electrical connector 258 with electrical wires. In particular, each electrical wire is coupled to one of the electrodes 206, 207 for receiving signals from the sanitizer electrical connector 258 that cause the ionizer sanitizer 205 to inject sanitization ions into the water in the water mixing/sanitizing chamber. The display and controller connector 246 and the temperature setting switch connector 251 are respectively coupled to the display and control interface and the temperature control with electrical wires. Furthermore, the water level sensor connector 252 is coupled by electrical wires to the water level sensor (not shown) that is installed on the outer surface of the basin 24. Also, the light power outlets 256 and 257 are coupled to lights, for example, the light 30 that provides under water lighting. Also, the continuous power AC outlet 226 can be used to plug in another device that needs continuous AC power. In addition, the power cord 224 is coupled to an AC wall outlet (not shown) to provide power to the electronic/firmware chamber.

Referring to FIGS. 2-8, an explanation is now provided of the operation of the spa control system 180 (FIG. 5) of the pedicure spa system 60. In operation, the power LED indicator 225 lights up when the spa control system 180 receives power from the wall outlet. An operator of the pedicure spa system 60 uses the display and control interface 68 to control the pedicure spa system 60. For example, the operator fills the basin 24 of the tub 61 by using the display and control interface 68 to turn on the water. The operator further sets the desired temperature of the water using the display and control interface 68. In turn, the electronics/firmware chamber processes the operator's input from the display and control interface 68. For example, the electronics/firmware chamber supplies signals at the electrical connectors 230, 231 that respectively control the cold and hot connector valves 200, 201. In this manner, the spa control system 180 regulates the mixture of cold and hot water that enters the water mixing/sanitizing chamber via the cold and hot water input ports. As the water passes by the temperature sensor probes 211, 212, these probes generate signals that are supplied back to the electronics/firmware chamber via wires that are coupled to the temperature sensor electronic connector 245. The electronics/firmware chamber processes these temperature sensor signals and generates signals that are supplied to the display and control interface 68 for displaying the temperature of the water in the water mixing/sanitizing chamber.

When the water is in the water mixing/sanitizing chamber, the water is sanitized by the ionizer sanitizer 205. The electrodes 206, 207 of the ionizer sanitizer 205 receive signals from the sanitizer electrical connector 258 for regulating the ionization levels. For example, when the electrodes 206, 207 receive signals from the sanitizer electrical connector 258, the ionizer sanitizer 205 injects sanitization ions into the water in the water mixing/sanitizing chamber of casing 184. These injected sanitization ions kill the bacteria and viruses in the basin 24 of the tub 61. In due course, the water in the water mixing/sanitizing chamber is supplied to the basin 24. In particular, the water is forced out of the output water connector 216 through a tube and out of the waterfall 34. If the operator engages the shower wand 65, the water in the water mixing/sanitizing chamber is supplied to the shower wand 65. In particular, the water is forced out of the output water connector 215 through a tube and out of the shower wand 65.

The operator of the pedicure spa system 60 can engage the jet pump 66 (FIG. 3) by pressing the jet switch 39 that toggles on and off the jet pump 66. In addition, the operator of the pedicure spa system 60 can engage the discharge pump (not shown) by pressing the discharge switch 40 that toggles on and off the discharge pump. While providing services to a user, the operator can use the technician light 67. The operator engages the technician light 67 from the display and control interface 68. In particular, the operator presses a button on the display and control interface 68 to toggle on and off the technician light 67.

When the operator is filling the basin 24 with water from the water mixing/sanitizing chamber, a water level sensor (not shown) that is installed on the outer surface of the basin 24 senses whether the water is at or below a predetermined level. The output of this water level sensor is coupled to the water level sensor connector 252 on the casing 185. In turn, these signals are processed by the electronics/firmware chamber to determine the proper course of action. For example, if the water level in the basin 24 is below a predetermined level the electronics/firmware chamber will continue to fill the basin 24 with water. Otherwise the electronics/firmware chamber will refrain from filling up the basin 24 by shutting off the valve that regulates the flow of water into the mixing/sanitizing chamber. In addition, if the water reaches another predetermined level that is undesirable the overflow 29 will allow the unwanted level of water to be drained from the tub 61.

The operator of the pedicure spa system 60 can drain the basin 24 by opening the drain stopper 28. The operator opens the drain stopper 28 by turning the overflow and drain opener 29. Then, the operator presses the discharge switch 38 to activate the discharge pump (not shown) that is located underneath the tub 23. The discharge pump sucks the water from the basin 24. In this regard, the basin 24 is drained and can be re-filled again for another user in the manner described above.

FIG. 9A illustrates a portion 300 of a pedicure spa system that is an alternative to the pedicure spa systems 20 and 60 of FIGS. 1 and 2. The portion 300 of the pedicure spa system shown in FIG. 9A includes a tub 304 and a basin 308. The basin 308 has an inner surface 30 and an outer surface 310. The outer surface has coupled thereto a remote water level sensor 314. The remote water level sensor 314 is a capacitive sensor that is developed by LURACO Technologies, Inc. The remote water level sensor 314 detects the level of the water in the basin 308. Alternatively, the water level sensor 314 is another type of remote sensor like an optical sensor. In yet another embodiment, the sensor 314 is coupled to the inner surface 309 of the basin 308. In that regard, in some embodiments, the inner surface 309 has disposed therein a water level sensor that detects the level of the water in the basin 308. In general, a variety of different types of sensors can be implemented to detect the level of water in the basin 308. In addition, the water level sensor may positioned in various locations. For example, the water level sensor may be coupled to the inner surface 309 of the basin 308, disposed therein, disposed in the basin 308, or disposed in the outer surface 310 of the basin 308.

FIG. 9B is a more detailed view of the remote water level sensor that is shown in the portion 300 of the pedicure spa system of FIG. 9A. As shown in FIG. 9B, the remote water level sensor 314 has a connector 320 that supplies a signal and connects to a water level sensor input of a controller. For example, in an embodiment, the connector 320 of the remote water level sensor 314 is coupled to the water level sensor input 160 of the electronics and firmware chamber 105. In that regard, the connector 320 supplies a signal from the remote water level sensor 314 to the electronics and firmware chamber 105. In turn, the chamber 105 processes that signal to determine the level of the water in the basin 308 and control the pedicure spa system in response to that signal.

The embodiments discussed above with respect to the spa control system 180 of FIGS. 5-8 and the pedicure spa system 60 of FIG. 2A show the spa control system 180 having the electronics/firmware chamber and the water mixing/sanitizing chamber coupled together. However, alternative embodiments of the pedicure spa system may use the electronics/firmware chamber independent of the water mixing/sanitizing chamber. For example, this is particularly desirable in pedicure spa system embodiments that have a manually operated faucet similar to the one shown in the pedicure spa system 20 of FIG. 1. In this regard, the electronics/firmware chamber of casing 185 is used to provide power supply and operating features to that pedicure spa system while using the hand operated faucet.

FIG. 10 illustrates a pedicure spa system 400 that is an alternative configuration of the pedicure spa system 20 shown in FIG. 1, and also in which various embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented. FIG. 10 does not show all aspects of the pedicure spa system 400. FIG. 10 shows only portions of the pedicure spa system 400 that are relevant to an understanding of the embodiment presently under discussion. Similar features of the pedicure spa systems 20 and 400 respectively shown in FIGS. 1 and 10 are numbered the same for the sake of clarity and simplicity. Moreover, the following discussion focuses primarily on the differences.

The pedicure spa system 400 includes a fluid chamber 405 that is coupled between the manually operated faucet 35 and the basin 24. The fluid chamber 405 includes the sanitizer 113 that sanitizes fluid in the fluid chamber 405. In addition, the fluid chamber 405 includes a fluid valve 410 that regulates the flow of fluid from the fluid chamber 405 to the basin 24. The pedicure spa system 400 also includes the fluid level sensor 314 that is coupled to the outer surface of the basin 24 in a manner that is similar to the manner shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B.

The pedicure spa system 400 further includes the intelligent electronics and firmware chamber 105. The electronics and firmware chamber 105 can be attached to the underside of the pedicure spa system 400 as discussed above with regard to the pedicure spa system 60 of FIG. 2A. The jet output 144 of the electronics and firmware chamber 105 is coupled to the fluid valve 410 for controlling the flow of fluid from the fluid chamber 405 to the basin 24. Moreover, in the pedicure spa system 400 the jet pump switch 150 of the electronics and firmware chamber 105 allows the operator to turn on or off the delivery of fluid from the fluid chamber 405 to the basin 24. In addition, the water level sensor input 160 of the electronics and firmware chamber 105 is coupled to the fluid level sensor 314. As previously explained, the water level sensor input 314 receives a signal from the water level sensor 314. In response to the signal received by the water level sensor input 160 from the water level sensor 314, the electronics and firmware chamber 105 can turn on or off a jet pump (not shown) of the pedicure spa system 400. The jet pump of the pedicure spa system 400 is similar to the jet pump 66 shown in FIG. 3.

Now provided is an explanation of the operation of the pedicure spa system 400 shown in FIG. 10. In operation, the operator of the pedicure spa system 400 fills the fluid chamber 405 by manually turning the faucet 35. The operator can adjust the faucet 35 to allow a mixture of hot and cold water into the fluid chamber 405. The water in the fluid chamber 405 is then sanitized by the sanitizer 113. The sanitizer 113 is controlled by the electronics and firmware chamber 105 and sanitizes the water in the fluid chamber 405 as previously explained. The fluid valve 410 is controlled by the electronics and firmware chamber. In particular, the operator uses the switch 150 of the electronics and firmware chamber 105 to turn on or off the delivery of fluid from the fluid chamber 405 to the basin 24. The electronics and firmware chamber 105 controls the fluid valve 410 in response to the switch 150 being in either the on or off position. In particular, the jet output 144 of the electronics and firmware chamber 105 controls the fluid valve 410 in response to the switch 150 being turned on or off. When the switch is turned off the jet output 144 closes the fluid valve 410 so that water from the fluid chamber 104 is prevented from flowing into the basin 24. When the switch is turned on the jet output 144 opens the fluid valve 410 so that ware in the fluid chamber 405 is allowed to flow into the basin 24.

In further detail, the electronics and firmware chamber 105 includes firmware that allows a jet pump (not shown) in the pedicure spa system 400 to be turned on when the water level in the basin 24 has reached a predefined level. In particular, the water level sensor 314 monitors when the water in the basin 24 reaches a predetermined level. When the water in the basin 24 reaches the predetermined level the fluid level sensor 314 sends a signal to the water level sensor input 160 to indicate that the predetermined water level has been reached. In response to the indication that the water in the basin 24 has reached a predetermined level, the electronics and firmware chamber 105 turns on the jet pump of the spa system 400.

In an alternative embodiment, the electronics and firmware chamber 105 provides automatic shut-off of the flow of water from the fluid chamber 405 into the basin 24. For example, when the water in the basin 24 reaches a predetermined level the fluid level sensor 314 sends a signal to the water level sensor input 160 of the electronics and firmware chamber. In response to the indication that the water in the basin 24 has reached a predetermined level, the electronics and firmware chamber 105 controls the fluid valve 410 so that further water is prevented from flowing from the fluid chamber 405 into the basin 24.

In alternative embodiments, the faucet may also be replaced and retrofitted with the mixing/sanitizing chamber of casing 184. In some instances, an existing pedicure spa system may be retrofitted with additional features that require control and power supplies. In that regard, these embodiments benefit from using the electronics/firmware chamber of casing 185 to provide the additional control electronics and power supply features that are necessary to support the retrofitted pedicure spa system.

Moreover, the embodiments discussed above have a water level sensor (not shown) that is a remote sensor that is typically installed on the outer surface of the basin 24 of the pedicure spa systems 20 (FIG. 1) and 60 (FIG. 2A), and detects the water level through wall of the basin 24. In an alternative embodiment, the water level sensor is disposed in a portion of the inner surface of the basin 24 and detects water therein.

While the preceding description shows and describes one or more embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. For example, the various steps of the described methods may be executed in a different order or executed sequentially, combined, further divided, replaced with alternate steps, or removed entirely. In addition, various functions illustrated in the methods or described elsewhere in the disclosure may be combined to provide additional and/or alternate functions. Moreover, the methods and apparatuses disclosed herein are applicable in a jacuzzi system, a whirlpool system, a bathtub system, and other suitable spa systems. Therefore, the claims should be interpreted in a broad manner, consistent with the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An apparatus for controlling a spa system having a basin for holding a fluid, the apparatus comprising:

an electronics control portion for receiving inputs from an operator of the spa system and for generating signals in response to the inputs that are received from the operator; and

a fluid mixing portion that receives the fluid from a supply and outputs the received fluid into the basin of the spa system;

wherein the electronics control portion controls a temperature of the fluid in the fluid mixing portion in response to one of the inputs received from the operator.

2. The apparatus of claim 1,

wherein the fluid mixing portion includes a temperature sensor for sensing the temperature of the fluid in the fluid mixing portion, the temperature sensor supplying a signal to the electronics control portion; and

wherein the electronics control portion controls the temperature of the fluid that is received by the fluid mixing portion in response to the signal supplied by the temperature sensor.

3. The apparatus of claim 2,

wherein the fluid mixing portion includes a pair of fluid input valves, one of the fluid input valves for coupling to a first fluid supply having a first temperature and the other of the input valves for coupling to a second fluid supply having a second temperature that is different than the first temperature; and

wherein the electronics control portion controls the temperature of the fluid that is received by the fluid mixing portion by controlling the fluid input valves.

4. The apparatus of claim 1,

wherein the fluid mixing portion includes a sanitizer for sanitizing the fluid in the fluid mixing portion, the sanitizer being coupled to the electronics control portion; and

wherein the electronics control portion controls operation of the sanitizer.

5. The apparatus of claim 4,

wherein the sanitizer includes an ionizer that injects sanitizing ions into the fluid in the fluid mixing portion; and

wherein the ionizer includes a plurality of electrodes that are coupled to the electronics control portion, the electrodes receiving signals from the electronics control portion for energizing the electrodes, and the electrodes releasing sanitization ions into the fluid in the fluid mixing portion in response to being energized.

6. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the sanitizer includes an ozone sanitizer.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the electronics control portion and the fluid mixing portion are detachably coupled to one another.

8. The apparatus of claim 1,

wherein the electronics control portion is operable to receive a signal from a fluid level sensor; and

wherein the electronics control portion controls the fluid that is received by the fluid mixing portion in response to the signal from the fluid level sensor.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the fluid level sensor input is one of a capacitive fluid level sensor and an optical fluid level sensor, the fluid level sensor being coupled to an outer surface of the basin and being operable for sensing a fluid level in the basin.

10. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the electronics control portion includes an operator interface for receiving an input for increasing temperature of the fluid, an input for decreasing temperature of the fluid, and an input for setting a desired temperature of the fluid that is to be outputted to the basin.

11. A system comprising:

a tub that includes a basin for containing fluid;

an operator interface for receiving inputs from an operator, the operator interface having a temperature setting switch for setting a desired temperature of the fluid that is to be filled in the basin;

a jet pump disposed in the basin that disturbs the fluid in the basin;

a fluid chamber that receives fluid from a supply, the fluid chamber having a temperature sensing portion that senses the temperature of the fluid therein; and

a control portion that: receives information from the temperature sensing portion and controls the supply of fluid into the fluid chamber in response to the desired temperature set by the operator; and controls the jet pump in response to the operator engaging a corresponding input on the operator interface.

12. The system of claim 11, further including a fluid sanitizing portion that sanitizes the fluid in the fluid chamber, the fluid sanitizing portion being coupled to the control portion that operates the sanitizer in response to a signal received from the operator interface.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the fluid sanitizing portion is operable to inject sanitization ions into the fluid in the fluid chamber.

14. The system of claim 11, further including a fluid level sensor for sensing a fluid level in the basin, the fluid level sensor being coupled to the control portion, and the control portion controlling the fluid level in the basin in response to a signal received from the fluid level sensor.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the fluid level sensor includes one of a capacitive sensor and an optical sensor, the fluid level sensor being coupled to an outer surface of the basin and being operable for sensing the fluid level in the basin.

16. The system of claim 11, further including a light disposed in the basin for lighting the fluid that is contained therein, wherein the operator interface includes a light switch for engaging the light, and wherein the control portion controls the light in response to the operator engaging the light switch on the operator interface.

17. The system of claim 11, wherein the operator interface includes a jet pump switch for engaging the jet pump, and wherein the electronics control portion controls the jet pump in response to the operator engaging the jet pump switch on the operator interface.

18. The system of claim 11, wherein the system includes one of a pedicure system, a jacuzzi system, a bathtub system, and a whirlpool system.

19. The system of claim 11, wherein the control portion includes a power supply interface that includes at least one of a direct current (DC) power supply output and an alternating current (AC) power supply output, and wherein the power supply interface provides power to a technician light that is powered off one of a DC and AC power.

20. A method for controlling a spa system having a control chamber, a fluid chamber, and a tub, the method comprising:

receiving fluid from input sections of the fluid chamber;

mixing the fluid in the fluid chamber;

receiving a desired temperature setting input from an operator, the desired temperature setting input being a desired temperature of the fluid after mixing the fluid in the fluid chamber;

outputting the mixed fluid into the tub;

monitoring the temperature of the fluid that is in the fluid chamber; and

in response to the desired temperature setting input and the temperature of the fluid in the fluid chamber, controlling the fluid that is received at the input sections of the fluid chamber in a manner so that the fluid being received is mixed in the fluid chamber to achieve the desired temperature.

21. The method of claim 19,

wherein the input sections of the fluid chamber includes a first fluid input for coupling to a first fluid supply having a first temperature and a second fluid input for coupling to a second fluid supply having a second temperature that is different than the first temperature;

wherein receiving fluid from the input sections of the fluid chamber includes receiving fluid from the first and second fluid supplies via the first and second fluid inputs, respectively; and

wherein mixing the fluid in the fluid chamber includes mixing fluid having the first temperature and fluid having the second temperature from the respective first and second fluid inputs.

22. The method of claim 19, further including monitoring a level of the fluid that is outputted into the tub.

23. The method of claim 21, wherein monitoring the level of the fluid that is outputted into the tub includes sensing a fluid level in the tub.

24. The method of claim 21, further including controlling the fluid that is outputted into the tub in response to the fluid level in the tub.

25. The method of claim 19, further including injecting sanitizing ions into the fluid that is being mixed in the fluid chamber.

26. An apparatus for controlling a spa system having a jet pump, a manual fluid mixer, a chamber for receiving and temporarily holding fluid, and having a basin for receiving fluid from the chamber, the apparatus comprising an electronics control portion that couples to the spa system for receiving signals from the spa system and for generating signals in response to the signals that are received from the spa system, wherein the electronics control portion controls the jet pump in response to a signal indicating that the fluid level in the basin has reached a predetermined level.

27. The apparatus of claim 26 wherein the manual fluid mixer is operable for controlling the temperature of the fluid that is received by the chamber.

28. The apparatus of claim 26 wherein the electronics control portion controls the flow of fluid from the chamber to the basin.

29. The apparatus of claim 28 wherein the electronics control portion controls the flow of fluid from the chamber to the basin in response to receiving a signal from the spa system indicating that the fluid level in the basin has reached a predetermined level.

30. The apparatus of claim 28 wherein the electronics control portion controls the flow of fluid from the chamber to the basin in response to receiving an input from an operator of the spa system.