Abstract: The present invention comprises a system for the localized heating of a portion of water within larger water bodies through a partial confinement of said portion of water without completely interrupting the water flow and where the concept of being in the same water body is maintained, in order to facilitate the practice of recreational activities in a heated environment. The present invention provides a solution to achieve a comfortable temperature of the water for direct contact recreational purposes in a cost-efficient manner, with a partial confinement system that allows creating a heat plug and provides for a serpentine-type flow between both sides of the partial confinement system.

Abstract: In some examples, a gas/air mixing device configured to mix gas and air to provide a gas/air mixture includes a mixer housing with a mounting flange being configured to mount the gas/air mixing device to a fan housing in such a way that a sealing surface of the mounting flange is in contact with a sealing surface of the fan housing. In some examples, the sealing surface of the mounting flange has grooves with a second radius being different from the first radius. In some examples, the sealing surface of the fan housing has a groove, with a second radius being different from the first radius. The mixer housing provides an inlet opening for air, an inlet opening for gas, and an outlet opening for the gas/air mixture. The sealing surface of the mounting flange surrounds the outlet opening of the mixer housing.

Abstract: A water heater includes a first heater, a second heater, and a controller. The controller can enable different operational modes of the water heater, wherein only the first heater operates, only the second heater operates, or both the first and the second heaters operate. The controller can also be configured to enable a hybrid operational mode and a bypass operational mode. Further, in the different operational modes, the controller can direct water flow to at least one of a first conduit coupled to the first heater, a second conduit coupled to the second heater, and a bypass conduit. The controller can be configured to receive input signals relating to environmental conditions around the water heater and/or an aquatic system in which the water heater is installed.

Abstract: A swimming pool water valve with a support element, comprising a water valve main body and a support element, wherein the support element and the water valve main body are integrally formed or assembled on the water valve main body, the support element supports the water valve main body, the water valve main body comprises a water inlet, a water outlet and a switch valve, wherein the water inlet is connected with the swimming pool, and the switch valve controls the connection and the separation of the water inlet and the water outlet. The swimming pool water valve is supported by the support element, so as to realize the function of protecting the drainage outlet and the water intake of the swimming pool from being torn and damaged easily and avoiding water leakage, thereby achieving the effect of long-term stable and safe use of the product.

Abstract: An operational efficiency apparatus comprising a sensor connected to a heat transfer system to detect efficiency of system and a display electrically connected to the sensor for indicating efficiency of the system based on data detected from the sensor.

Abstract: A wave pool having multiple wave breaking zones extending across the pool floor, wherein different wave breaking formations with different wave characteristics can be generated within each zone, using the same wave energy derived from the same original wave, wherein surfers with different abilities can surf in different locations within the same pool. Specific features are provided that enable breaker waves to be properly managed and controlled such that intermediate/advanced surfers can surf in one zone and beginner surfers can surf in another zone. Included are special dividers to prevent surfers from crossing from one zone to the next, while at the same time, allowing wave energy to pass through. An attenuating means is provided to help reduce the choppiness of the waves.

Abstract: The disclosure provides an outdoor device for simulating a pond ecosystem comprising a plurality of simulated ponds connected together by pipelines and including an adjusting pool, a plurality of control groups and a plurality of treatment groups with different concentrations; the plurality of control groups and the treatment groups are randomly distributed in the ponds according to a random draw method or a random allocation method, and the adjusting pool is a transfer station for water inlets and outlets of the ponds. According to the device, the plurality of control groups and treatment groups are arranged in a system, achieving a scale of a middle-scale pond ecological simulation system, which can stimulate an actual complex hydrostatic ecological system including a plurality of aquatic macrophytes, algae, zooplankton, benthos and microorganisms, and evaluate the effects of the complex ecological efficiency caused by chemical pollutants entering an actual water body.

Abstract: “Just in time” operational techniques allow equipment of swimming pools or spas to achieve identified water temperatures at specified times. A user may supply information such as a desired water temperature (i.e. a temperature set point) and a time at which the water is desired to be at the desired temperature. After receiving the user-supplied information, software may account as well for certain environmental conditions to devise a suitable schedule for controlling heating of the water of the swimming pool or spa. Adjustments may be made to the schedule based on then-current water temperatures or other changed conditions.

Abstract: As a circulation pump is activated while a hot water supply faucet is closed, an immediate hot water supply circulation path is formed to bypass the hot water supply faucet on the outside of a water heating apparatus and to pass through a heat exchanger in the inside of the water heating apparatus. A controller determines in a test mode, whether or not the immediate hot water supply circulation path has been formed by connection of a thermal water stop bypass valve, based on whether or not a temperature detector senses increase in temperature to a predetermined criterion temperature while the circulation pump and a heat source apparatus are active.

Abstract: A water heater includes a heat exchanger, a heat pump, a first valve in fluid communication with the heat exchanger and the heat pump, and a controller configured to control the first valve. The first valve can be configured to direct water flow toward at least one of the gas heater or the electric heat pump. A second valve in fluid communication with the first valve and the heat pump can be provided, and the controller can be further configured to control the second valve. A water heater inlet and a water heater outlet can be included and in fluid communication with the first valve, and the controller can be configured to monitor a temperature of water entering the water heater inlet and control the first valve dependent upon the monitored temperature.

Abstract: Methods, devices, and systems for space conditioning based on weather information are described herein. One device includes a memory, and a processor to execute executable instructions stored in the memory to receive forecasted weather information, determine, based on the forecasted weather information, future weather conditions, determine based on the future weather conditions and historical setpoint data, whether conditioning of a space is expected, and generate an alert in response to conditioning of the space being expected.

Abstract: A swim lane apparatus having one or more attachment or tethering devices. The one or more attachment or tethering devices are configured to couple or affix to a foundation of the pool. The swim lane apparatus has a first sidewall. The first sidewall is coupled to the one or more attachment or tethering devices. The first sidewall is configured to form a channel and direct a flow of water out of the channel when the flow of water enters the channel.

Abstract: A spa with integrated folding table has a spa shell portion for containing water and a table that is hingedly connected to an upper inside surface of the spa shell. When the table is not being used, the table hinges down, the table lies against an inside surface of the spa shell (e.g. substantially beneath a surface of the water). When the table is in use, the table hinges outward from the upper inside surface of the spa shell in a horizontal plane. A support has a first end hingedly connected to a lower portion of the spa shell and a distal second end for connecting to an underside surface of the table. The support provides structural support to the table when the table is extended (hinges outwardly).

Abstract: A bathtub exercise auxiliary apparatus includes: a first support, a bathtub, a second support, a traction unit and an exercise rack. The first support includes a plurality of base rods, traverse rods, longitudinal support rods, and longitudinal assembling rods. The bathtub is disposed in the first support and includes a trough and a plurality of housing portions. The second support is removably fixed to the first support, located above the bathtub, and includes a plurality of longitudinal connecting rods fixed to the longitudinal assembling rods, two parallel traverse connecting rods connected to the longitudinal connecting rods, two traverse rods connected between the longitudinal connecting rods, and two longitudinal rods connected to the traverse rods. The traction unit is disposed at the connections of the longitudinal rods and the traverse rods. The exercise rack is disposed between the traverse connecting rods, bridges over the trough, and includes a griping portion.

Abstract: The invention comprises a raised platform having a vibrator pad embedded therein. The platform has a ramp at its forward end and a raised platform portion extending forwardly from the forward end of the ramp. The vibrator pad is embedded in the raised platform portion. A vertically adjustable handrail is provided at the opposite sides of the platform. A plurality of patient restraint members are provided to enable a person to stand upright on the vibrator pad.

Abstract: Provided are a device for training swimmers and performing physiotherapeutic exercises, a method for assembling a device for training swimmers and performing physiotherapeutic exercises, a unit for measuring parameters of a swimmer, and a method for assembling a unit for measuring parameters of a swimmer. The device for training swimmers and performing physiotherapeutic exercises comprises a tank configured to accommodate a swimmer and a cover connected to the tank. The device for training swimmers and performing physiotherapeutic exercises further comprises a restraining element. A first end of the restraining element is connected to the tank and the second end of the restraining element is configured to be connected to the swimmer. The unit for measuring parameters of a swimmer comprises a housing, within which a motive force sensor, a processing unit, and a transmitter are enclosed.

Abstract: In a spa or pool water temperature control system, the combination comprising, a water flow pump, having a motor, the pump operating to transfer heat generated by the pump motor to the water flowing through the pump, and to the spa or pool, a hi-limit temperature sensor located to detect the temperature of the pumped water, a temperature sensor operatively connected in controlling relation with the pump, in close proximity to the aforementioned hi-limit sensor to effect accurate sensing of the pumped water temperature, a control system that monitors said sensors and provides for manual pump activation as well as thermostatic control of the water temperature.

Abstract: The invention relates to a swimming pool heating system, characterized in that it comprises a heat pump and means for controlling the compressor of said heat pump according to a number of non-zero power levels, as a function of a predetermined set of parameters. The system comprises, for example, three power levels, the first level being close to 40% of the compressor speed, the second level being close to 70% of the compressor speed, and the third level being close to 100% of the maximum compressor speed.

Abstract: In an improved swimming pool water heating system, water in the pool circulates through a first loop from the pool to a surge pit and through a filter before returning to the pool. The heating system includes a second loop with a heat exchanger and a remote water heater. The pool water is heated by the heat exchanger. The first and second circulation loops are separate from one another. The heater may include multiple heating units which can be staged for sequential actuation. The second circulation loop is closed, such that the pool water does not flow through the heater, but rather is indirectly heated via the heat exchanger. The heater is isolated from the pool water. The heating units are vented to atmosphere so as to be non-pressurized.

Abstract: A solar water heating system for a swimming pool is disclosed; the solar water heating system is either integrated to the ledge of a swimming pool or installed as an add-on onto the ledge of an existing swimming pool. The solar water heating system comprises at least one water channel extending along the perimeter of the ledge of the swimming pool through which water is circulated and heated by sun rays.

Abstract: A spa heats or cools air in the air space surrounding the water containment vessel to heat or cool the water in the water containment vessel. The air is heated and cooled and is circulated within the spa cabinet in contact with the underside of the tub and the plumbing for transferring or absorbing heat from the water through the tub and the plumbing. The air is heated by a solid state thermoelectric device or a conventional space heater and is cooled using a solid state thermoelectric device. Preferably a single thermoelectric device is mounted through a wall in the spa cabinet and is used for both heating and cooling the air in the air space.

Abstract: In an improved swimming pool water heating system, water in the pool circulates through a first loop from the pool to a surge pit and through a filter before returning to the pool. The heating system includes a second loop with a heat exchanger and a remote water heater. The pool water is heated by the heat exchanger. The first and second circulation loops are separate from one another. The heater may include multiple heating units which can be staged for sequential actuation. The second circulation loop is closed, such that the pool water does not flow through the heater, but rather is indirectly heated via the heat exchanger. The heater is isolated from the pool water. The heating units are vented to atmosphere so as to be non-pressurized.

Abstract: The present invention involves a type of small-sized pool and PTC heater for liquid heating. The PTC heating component of PTC heater is composed of several heating cores made of PTC ceramic material, completely eliminating fire risk. Meanwhile, PTC heating component external is equipped with at least one layer of insulation and sealing component, which further includes several insulation layers and at least one sealing layer outside the insulation layer, effectively eliminating electricity leakage risk. Two layers of above mentioned insulation and sealing component could meet the insulation requirements specified in IEC standard and UL standard, so it could be used for applications with large power. In addition, the PTC heater has good water route sealing ability, so it could be used for liquid heating in small size pool. The small-sized pool is equipped with PTC heater with several layers of insulation and sealing for liquid heating, safe and reliable.

Abstract: A pool cover for heating swimming pools using sun rays. The pool cover comprises a solar panel provided at an upper surface of the cover facing the sun, a battery connected to the solar panel for receiving and storing the electric current generated by the solar panel, and a heating element provided at the lower surface of the cover for heating the water using the current received from the battery. The pool cover also includes a floater provided at an edge of the cover, the floater being sized and positioned to keep the pool cover afloat when the pool cover is on the water. A layer of heat insulating material may also be provided within the pool cover for preventing heat losses with the ambient air. In another embodiment, the cover may be provided without a battery whereby the solar panel may be directly connected to the heating element.

Abstract: An embodiment of a spa control system includes a heater, a pump for circulating water through the pump, one or more sensors for monitoring temperature, and an electronic controller coupled to the heater, pump and sensor(s) for controlling the heater and pump based on the rate of change in temperature at the sensor(s). A method of controlling a heater in a spa with a spa control system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A spa control system that measures the flow of water through the heater and accurately reports water temperature in the spa using only one solid-state sensor in the heater. The rate of flow is determined by energizing the pump, with the heater still de-energized, and observing the rate in which the moving water cools the inside of the heater. If there is no circulation of water through the heater, the temperature of the sensor will continue to rise from the energy applied when the heater was briefly energized. This rise will be quite significant and a clear indication of a flow problem. If the flow is found to be adequate, the heater will be energized for a normal period of time. The sensor is now carefully monitored for a sudden increase in temperature, which would indicate loss of a normal flow of water.

Abstract: Electric shock to a user has been a major concern for a conventional electric water heater installed in or near a bathroom. An electrically insulated air-conducting water heater utilizes electrically insulating hot air to indirectly heat water to avoid electric hazard to a user of an electric water heater. The present invention comprises an air pump unit, a heating and temperature control unit, and an air venting unit having a plurality of tiny air nozzles immersed in a water pool. Ambient air is collected by the air pump unit, heated in the heating and temperature control unit, and injected into a water pool through the air venting unit as a form of zillions of small hot bubbles to heat the water. Apart from serving as an electrically safe water heater, the present invention also functions as a hot-bubble sauna machine, bathroom body dryer, and air conditioner.

Abstract: To provide an aircraft use water heater that operates by an aircraft power source of an AC variable frequency mounted in an aircraft, that is small, light-weight, safe, and low power consumption, and that can supply warm water stably. In an aircraft use water heater composed of a tank section for heating liquid stored therein and a controlling section for controlling the heating of the liquid by an aircraft power source, a bottom face of the tank section has a baffle plate and, liquid flowing in the tank section collides against the baffle plate to flow in a different direction parallel to the bottom face and is upwardly moved, while being heated, in the vicinity of a helical coil-type heater and is taken out through a liquid outlet.

Abstract: A spa or hot tub system includes a tub forming a cavity that holds a fluid such as water therein, and a water circulation system provides for circulation of water within the tub. The hot tub includes inner and outer surfaces, and defines an internal space. A heat pump system is operably connected to the water circulation system, and heats the water in the hot tub. The water side heat exchangers of the heat pump may include a polymer housing, and coiled inner elements for refrigerant. The coils may be made of a corrosion-resistant metal tubing or the like. The system may include a conventional electric heating element in addition to the heat pump to provide additional heating capacity.

Abstract: Disclosed are systems and devices for controlling the amount of water passing through a heat exchanger and the amount of water that by-passes the heater without passing through the heat exchanger. In some embodiments, the system includes a by-pass valve assembly having means for sensing a time-varying characteristic of fluid adjacent the inlet, means for sensing a time-varying characteristic of fluid adjacent the outlet, and a valve that alters the amount of fluid by-passing the fluid heater in response to differences in the time-varying characteristic of fluid adjacent the inlet and fluid adjacent the outlet.

Abstract: Disclosed is a heater including a back-flow preventing device located at or adjacent an outlet of the heater. In some embodiments, the back-flow preventing device has an open position and a closed position. When the back-flow preventing device is in the open position, water is able to flow freely through the heater. When back-flow preventing device is in the closed position, water is prevented from flowing or migrating back into the heater.

Abstract: A hot tub includes a shell defining a water compartment, at least one electrical component, and a cover positionable over the shell. The cover includes a body and an integral solar panel mounted to the body. The solar panel provides electrical output power to one or more of the electrical components.

Abstract: A spa control system that measures the flow of water through the heater of a spa and accurately reports water temperature in the spa using only one solid-state sensor in the heater. The working condition of the sensor is first determined by energizing the spa heater for a brief period of time, with the circulation pump de-energized, then quickly de-energizing the heater and watching for a heat rise at the sensor. A small rise is sufficient to proceed with the flow test. The flow rate is now determined by energizing the pump, with the heater still de-energized, and observing the rate at which the moving water cools the inside of the heater. If there is no circulation of water through the heater, the temperature of the sensor will continue to rise from the energy applied when the heater was briefly energized. This rise will be quite significant and a clear indication of a flow problem.

Abstract: A system for load control in an electrical power system is described, wherein one or more temperature-monitoring devices are provided to control operation of a pool pump. When ambient temperatures are relatively high, and thus, electrical power demands from air conditioning systems are relatively high, the temperature-monitoring devices can remove power from the controlled device during the hottest portions of the day. The temperature-monitoring devices can provide power to the controlled devices during the cooler portions of the day. During heat waves or other periods of relatively continuous high heat, the temperature-monitoring devices can schedule power to the controlled devices to reduce overall power demands and to run the controlled devices during the cooler portions of the day when air conditioning electrical loads are reduced. The temperature-monitoring devices can also coordinate operation of the pool pump and a pool heater.

Abstract: An air conditioner and pool heater dual system, functioning as a combination air conditioner and water heater having a heat exchanger that includes a refrigerant-to-water heat exchanger, a gas compressor, and at least one evaporator coil. The dual system is capable of heating a pool and refrigerating a house simultaneously using only one compressor.

Abstract: A spa control system that measures the flow of water through the heater and accurately reports water temperature in the spa using only one solid-state sensor in the heater. The working condition of the sensor is first determined by activating the heater for a brief period of time, with the circulation pump de-energized, and watching for the expected heat rise at the sensor. A small rise is sufficient to proceed with the flow test. The rate of flow is now determined by energizing the pump, with the heater still de-energized, and observing the rate in which the moving water cools the inside of the heater. If there is no circulation of water through the heater, the temperature of the sensor will continue to rise from the energy applied when the heater was briefly energized. This rise will be quite significant and a clear indication of a flow problem. If the flow is found to be adequate, the heater will be energized for a normal period of time.

Abstract: A solar panel and a solar fence incorporating the solar fence. The solar panel has a fluid heating component adapted to absorb solar energy and mounted to a frame assembly. The solar panel may include an auxiliary line to facilitate alternative system configurations and convenient connection of inlet and outlet lines. The solar panel may also include a cover to selectively control the rate at which the fluid is heated. The solar panel may also include panels to provide privacy when the solar panel is incorporated into a solar fence.

Abstract: A free-floating, integrated, solar operated water heater appliance, for heating the body of water includes a flotation device for buoyantly supporting the appliance in the body of water. A water heater element, fueled by solar energy, heats water pumped through the heater element by an integral pump, driven by solar energy. A solar energy reflector/container supports the heater element and concentrates solar energy onto the outer surface of the heater element. A parabolic dish reflector concentrates solar energy onto the inner surface of the heater element. Water is circulated through the heater element and returned, in elevated temperature, to the body of water.

Abstract: The pool heating system includes a pool containing a large volume of pool water and an associated building. The building having an attic space over a living space. A heat-exchanger is positioned outside of the living space of the building. The heat exchanger exchanges heat from the attic into pool water that is circulated through the heat exchanger. Any pool water that leaks from the heat-exchanger does not leak into or onto the living space.

Abstract: A swimming pool, Spa or combination of a swimming pool or spa is heated with a heat pump and a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger comprises a water input, a water output, a heating agent input, a heating agent output, an inner coil and an outer coil being disposed about the outer periphery of the inner coil; and a separator device being configured and disposed to separate the coils in order to minimize vibrating and rubbing against each other. The separator device comprises a first separator device portion having two rounded shoulder portions configured to permit the separator device to be rotated into position between the inner coil and the outer coil, a middle portion comprising two substantially C-shaped curves, which substantially C-shaped curves form a dog bone-shape, and a second separator device portion comprising two rounded configured to be turned or twisted upon assembly of the heat exchanger.

Abstract: A spa or hot tub system includes a tub forming a cavity that holds a fluid such as water therein, and a water circulation system provides for circulation of water within the tub. The hot tub includes inner and outer surfaces, and defines an internal space. A heat pump system is operably connected to the water circulation system, and heats the water in the hot tub. The water side heat exchangers of the heat pump may include a polymer housing, and coiled inner elements for refrigerant. The coils may be made of a corrosion-resistant metal tubing or the like. The system may include a conventional electric heating element in addition to the heat pump to provide additional heating capacity.

Abstract: A floating spa cover generally comprises an inflatable insulating and soar heating central portion surrounded by one or more independently inflatable adjustable rings. The inflatable central portion comprises a center section and a peripheral ring. The center section covers most of the spa water surface and includes an upper film of substantially transparent plastic and a lower film of translucent plastic separated by a gas-filled space. The first adjustable ring, connected to the central portion so as to be selectively removable, encompasses the central portion and is independently inflatable to selectively adjust the area of the cover over a first range of areas. The second adjustable ring, connected to the first adjustable ring so as to be selectively removable, encompasses the first adjustable ring and is independently inflatable to selectively adjust the area of the cover over a second range of areas.

Abstract: A heated seating system for integration within an in-ground pool is provided that selectively channels heated water from a source of heated water directly through one or more seating structures disposed within the pool. Heated water is selectively channeled to thus distribute the heated water through the seating about where individuals are designed to sit and/or recline. The seating areas receiving the heated water may be integrally formed with the pool or otherwise may be detachable therefrom. The seating may also be utilized with both fiberglass and concrete pools.

Abstract: A portable water heating system for use with a spa. The heating system circulates water from a spa, heats the water and returns the heated water to the spa. The portable heating system includes a housing that encloses a heater and a pump; a water intake hose; a water outlet hose; and a thermostat. The heating system may also include temperature-setting dials and flow and pressure regulating switches. A thermostat is also disposed within the portable spa heating system and is attached to the heater. The thermostat may be set to a predetermined temperature so that the heater, and therefore water temperature, may be controlled.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for circulating water in a bathing installation with a water circulation flow path and a tub for holding bathing water is described. A pump is submerged in a chamber in the circulation flow path so that the pump when operated provides a positive pump pressure to pump water through the circulation flow path from an inlet opening to an outlet opening. Thermal contact is provided between a pump housing surface and water in the chamber to allow heat transfer between the pump housing surface and water in the chamber.

Abstract: A tub having a water holding tank or jacket and a plurality of apertures in the tub so that water from the water jacket can be quickly transferred to the tub and controls within the system to provide means for the user to define water temperature, volume and rate of flow.

Abstract: A dual water heating system uses a pump for pumping water from a swimming pool or spa. A filter is coupled to an output of the pump for filtering the water. A water heater heats the water and returns heated water to the swimming pool or spa. A network of non-corrosive piping is disposed within the swimming pool support structure. A plurality of steam ports are coupled to exit points of the network of piping. A steam generator provides steam to the network of piping for transporting the steam to the steam ports and injecting the heated water into the swimming pool or spa. An energy source supplies energy to the steam heater. A motorized or hand-push cart is used to transport the steam heater and energy source. The steam ports are provided along sidewalls or bottom surface of the swimming pool and spa support structure. The steam ports are contained within cavities formed in the support structure.

Abstract: A temperature difference swimming pool comprises a pool filled with water, a plurality of water curtain controlling devices, and a temperature regulating system. The water curtain controlling devices are spaced apart and arranged at a bottom of the pool, each of the water curtain controlling devices includes two juxtaposed pipes, a series of intermittent holes is formed in a top surface of the pipes and located along the length thereof and is vertical to the water surface of the pool, the pipes each has a close end, and another end of the pipes is connected to a pump. Water is suctioned by the pump into one pipe via the holes thereof, and is then spurted out of the other pipe via the holes thereof, thus making the water circulates and forming a water curtain in the swimming pool.

Abstract: Pool systems and methods of constructing and regulating the temperature of such systems are provided. An exemplary pool system can include a bottom having an integrated thermal regulating element and a wall having both a structural component and a thermally insulative component. The thermal regulating element can be placed in closed-loop fluid communication with a solar energy collector, such as an array of evacuated tube solar energy collectors.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling swimming pool or spa heaters is provided in the present invention. The system and method control the temperature of the pool or spa water and saves energy by heating the water therein only when future weather conditions indicate that it will be feasible and cost effective to do so in an automated process that depends upon forecast and actual weather and measured data at the pool. The system and method also utilize prior actual experience in heating the pool or spa to subsequently improve energy savings over time.