US20050168902A1

Movatterモバイル変換

Info

Publication number: US20050168902A1
Application number: US10/831,114
Authority: US
Inventors: Benoit Laflamme; Daniel Gaudreau
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Gecko Alliance Group Inc
Priority date: 2004-02-02
Filing date: 2004-04-26
Publication date: 2005-08-04
Also published as: US7843357B2; CA2495622C; US20100152911A1; US20100219962A1; US20050168900A1; US7701679B2; US8624749B2; CA2816862A1; EP1564613A2; US7982625B2; US20070200698A1; US20080030358A1; CA2816862C; EP1564613A3; US7327275B2; CA2495622A1; US20080094235A1; US8164470B2

Abstract

A controller for identifying an abnormal operational condition in a bathing unit system that includes a power source and a set of bathing unit components. The controller comprises a power control device and a processing module. The power control device is capable of acquiring a first state and a second state. In the first state, said power control device enables the power source to supply power to the set of bathing unit components, and in the second state, said power control device prevents the power source from supplying power to the set of bathing unit components. The processing module is operative for detecting an abnormal operational condition associated with the bathing unit system, and more particularly with the controller itself. Upon detection of an abnormal operational condition associated with the controller, the processing module causes the power control device to acquire the second state.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/768,130, which was filed on Feb. 2, 2004.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to controllers suitable for use in bathing unit systems and, more particularly, to controllers adapted for detecting abnormal operational conditions in bathing unit systems.

BACKGROUND

Bathing unit systems that include control systems are well known in the art. Examples of such bathing unit systems include whirlpools, hot tubs, bathtubs, therapeutic baths and swimming pools, among others. Typically, these bathing unit systems include various functional components, such as water pumps, heating modules, filter systems, air blowers, ozone generators, and lighting systems, among others. It is generally, the control system of the bathing unit system that actuates and manages the various functional components of the bathing unit system for setting the different operational characteristics of these functional components. For example, the control system can control the activation and de-activation of the water pumps and of the heating module in order to maintain the water within the water receptacle at a desired temperature.

Generally, bathing unit control systems include a controller to which the various bathing unit components are connected. This controller is adapted to control the power supplied from a power source to each one of the various components. More specifically, in response to signals received from a user of the bathing unit system, for example via a control panel, and/or in response to signals received from various sensors, the controller will activate or de-activate the various bathing unit components by supplying power, or ceasing to supply power, to those components.

The various functional components of a bathing unit system are susceptible to abnormal operational conditions, in which they operate in manners that do not correspond to their respective normal operational conditions. An abnormal operational condition may result, for example, from an operational failure in one or multiple components of the bathing system. Such an operational failure in a functional component can be due to a mechanical or electronic malfunction in the component, or to the component experiencing operating conditions in which it was not designed to operate. Traditional control systems are generally able to detect and control abnormal operational conditions that result due to a failure of one or more of the various bathing unit components.

Abnormal operational conditions may also occur within the controller of a bathing unit system. Unfortunately, traditional control systems are not equipped to detect and control abnormal operational conditions that occur due to a failure of the controller. An operational failure within the controller may be caused by, for example, corrupted software or a circuit overheating, among other possibilities. When the controller experiences such an operational failure, the controller may be damaged and/or lose its ability to control the activation and de-activation of the various functional components of the bathing unit system. In such a case, it is desirable that there be an emergency feature for preventing further damage to the bathing unit system, and preventing harm to users of the bathing unit system.

In light of the above, there is a need in the industry to provide a controller suitable for a bathing system that alleviates at least in part the problems associated with existing controllers.

SUMMARY

In accordance with a broad aspect, the invention provides a controller for a bathing unit system.

The bathing unit system includes a power source and a set of bathing unit components. The controller comprises a power control device and a processing module. The power control device interfaces between the power source and the set of bathing unit components and is capable of acquiring either one of a first state and a second state. In the first state, the power control device enables the power source to supply power to the set of bathing unit components, and in the second state, said power control device prevents the power source from supplying power to the set of bathing unit components. The processing module is in communication with the power control device and is operative for detecting an abnormal operational condition associated with the bathing unit system and, upon detection of an abnormal operational condition of the bathing system, causing the power control device to acquire the second state.

In a non-limiting example of implementation, the controller includes an output module, wherein upon detection by the processing module of an abnormal operational condition of the bathing unit system, the output module is operative for conveying information to a user indicative of an error condition.

In accordance with another broad aspect, the invention provides a method for monitoring a bathing unit system that includes a power source, a set of bathing unit components and a power control device for interfacing between the power source and the set of bathing unit components. The power control device is capable of acquiring a first state and a second state. In the first state, the power control device enables the power source to supply power to the set of bathing unit components, and in the second state, the power control device prevents the power source from supplying power to the set of bathing unit components. The method comprises detecting an abnormal operational condition associated with the bathing unit system and causing the power control device to acquire the second state upon detection of an abnormal operational condition associated with the bathing unit system.

In accordance with yet another broad aspect, the invention provides a bathing unit system comprising a power source, a set of bathing unit components in communication with the power source, a power control device and a processing module. The power control device interfaces between the power source and the set of bathing unit components and is capable of acquiring a first state and a second state. In the first state, the power control device enables the power source to supply power to the set of bathing unit components, and in the second state, the power control device prevents the power source from supplying power to the set of bathing unit components. The processing module is in communication with the power control device, and is operative for detecting an abnormal operational condition associated with the bathing unit system and causing said power control device to acquire the second state upon detection of an abnormal operational condition associated with the bathing unit system.

In accordance with yet another broad aspect, the invention provides a system for monitoring a controller that is operative for supplying power from a power source to a set of operational components. The system comprises a power control device and a processing module. The power control device interfaces between the power source and the set of operational components and is capable of acquiring a first state and a second state. In the first state, the power control device enables the power source to supply power to the set of operational components, and in the second state, the power control device prevents the power source from supplying power to the set of operational components. The processing module is in communication with the power control device, and is operative for detecting an abnormal operational condition associated with the controller and causing the power control device to acquire the second state upon detection of an abnormal operational condition associated with the controller.

These and other aspects and features of the present invention will now become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the following description of specific embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention is provided herein below, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a bathing unit system that is equipped with a controller, in accordance with a non-limiting example of implementation of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the controller ofFIG. 1 in accordance with a non-limiting example of implementation of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a flow chart depicting a process for monitoring the bathing unit system in accordance with a non-limiting example of implementation of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a diagnostic unit in accordance with a non-limiting example of implementation of the present invention; and

FIG. 5A-5C are block diagrams of various embodiments of an output module suitable for use with a controller in accordance with specific non-limiting examples of implementation of the present invention.

In the drawings, the embodiments of the invention are illustrated by way of examples. It is to be expressly understood that the description and drawings are only for the purpose of illustration and are an aid for understanding. They are not intended to be a definition of the limits of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of abathing unit system10 in accordance with a specific example of implementation of the present invention. It is to be understood that the expression “bathing unit system”, as used for the purposes of the present description, refers to spas, whirlpools, hot tubs, bath tubs, therapeutic baths, swimming pools and any other type of bathing receptacle that can be equipped with a control system for controlling various operational settings.

TheBathing Unit System10

Thebathing unit system10, shown inFIG. 1, includes awater receptacle18 for holding water, a plurality ofjets20, a plurality ofdrains22, a control system and a plurality of bathing unit components. The bathing unit components shown inFIG. 1 include

water pumps

11 and12,filter26,air blower24, andheating module60. It should be understood that thebathing unit system10 can include more or less bathing unit components without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, although not shown inFIG. 1, thebathing unit system10 could also include an ozonator, lighting components for lighting up the water in thewater receptacle18, multimedia components such as a CD/DVD player and/or any other components suitable for use in abathing unit system10.

In normal operation, water flows from thewater receptacle18, through one ormore drains22 and is pumped bywater pump12 through theheating module60 where the water is heated. The heated water then leaves theheating module60 and re-enters thewater receptacle18 through one ormore jets20. This cycle of water leaving thewater receptacle18 through one ormore drains22, passing through theheating module60 and re-entering thewater receptacle18 through one ormore jets20 is repeated continuously while thewater pump12 is active.

In addition, in normal operation, the water also passes through a cycle wherein the water flows from thewater receptacle18, through one ormore drains22 and is pumped bywater pump11 through afilter26. After having been filtered, the water then re-enters the water receptacle through one ormore jets20. This cycle of water leaving thewater receptacle18 throughdrains22, passing through thefilter26 and re-entering thewater receptacle18 throughjets20 is repeated continuously while thewater pump11 is active, in order to keep the water clean from particulate impurities.

In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the control system includes acontrol panel32, acontroller30, an (optional) auxiliary I/O device51 and a plurality ofsensors70 that monitor the various components of the spa.

The plurality ofsensors70 are operative for monitoring various operational conditions of thebathing unit system10. For example, thesensors70 may include temperature sensors for monitoring the temperature of the water, and liquid level sensors for monitoring the water level at various locations in thebathing unit system10. Other sensors that are suitable for use within abathing unit system10 can also be included without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Thecontrol panel32 is typically in the form of a user interface that allows a user to enter command signals for controlling the various operational settings of thebathing unit system10. Thecontrol panel32 can include buttons, levers or any other device known in the art for enabling a user to enter input commands for controlling the various operational settings of thebathing unit system10. In addition, in a non-limiting embodiment, thecontrol panel32 can include a screen for conveying information to a user, such as the water temperature, the ambient air temperature and the time, among other possibilities.

Some non-limiting examples of the operational settings of thebathing unit system10 that can be controlled by thecontrol panel32 include on/off settings, temperature control settings, jet control settings, lighting settings, etc. In a non-limiting example of implementation, thebathing unit system10 includes entertainment and/or multimedia components, such that the operational settings of the bathing unit may also include audio settings and video settings, amongst others. Consequently, the expression “operational settings”, for the purpose of the present invention, is intended to cover operational settings for any suitable component that is part of thebathing unit system10.

Thecontroller30 is operative to control the distribution of power supplied to the various bathing unit components on the basis of control signals received from thevarious sensors70 and thecontrol panel32, in order to cause the desired operational settings to be implemented. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, thecontroller30 is in communication with apower source29, viaservice wiring31, for receiving electrical power from thepower source29. As such, thecontroller30 is able to control the distribution of power supplied from thepower supply29 to the various bathing unit components. More specifically, on the basis of signals received from thevarious sensors70 as well as command signals received from thecontrol panel32, thecontroller30 can control the distribution of power to the bathing unit components in order to cause the desired operational settings to be implemented. In a non-limiting implementation, thepower source29 is connected to thecontroller30 viaservice wiring31 which is passed through a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)86. TheGFCI86 is adapted for tripping in the presence of a current leakage to the ground, such that thepower source29 is unable to provide power to the set of bathing unit components. The ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)86 provides an added safety measure to the bathing unit system. GFCI's are known in the art, and as such will not be described in further detail herein.

Thepower source29 is operative to supply thecontroller30 with any conventional power service suitable for residential or commercial use. In a non-limiting implementation, thepower source29 can supply 240 volts (V) AC to thecontroller30 viaservice wiring31. In an alternative non-limiting implementation, thepower source29 can supply 120 V AC to thecontroller30 viaservice wiring31. In an alternative non-limiting implementation, thepower source29 can supply 120 V and 240 V AC to thecontroller30 viaservice wiring31. It is to be appreciated that other voltage supply values or voltage supply combinations, for example depending on geographical location, are possible without detracting from the spirit and scope of the invention.

The auxiliary I/O device51, as mentioned above, is an optional component of the bathing unit control system can be in the form of a laptop, a PDA, or a cellphone, among other possibilities. Auxiliary I/O devices51 can be used to perform a variety of different functions, which will be described in more detail further on in the description.

TheController30

Thecontroller30, in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown in more detail inFIG. 2.FIG. 2 shows thecontroller30 as being in communication with thepower source29, thecontrol panel32, at least onesensor70, the auxiliary I/O device51 and the plurality ofbathing unit components47. For the sake of simplicity, the bathing unit components shown inFIG. 2 are all referred to byreference number47. It should be understood, however, that each of thebathing unit components47 shown inFIG. 2 could be representative of the

water pump

11 or12, theheating module60, thefilter26, theair blower26, an ozonator (not shown) or any lighting components, and/or audio/visual components that are included within thebathing unit system10.

Specific to the present invention, and as will be described below, thecontroller30 is operative for detecting an abnormal operational condition associated with thebathing unit system10 and, upon detection of the abnormal operational condition, is operative for causing apower control device33 to prevent thepower source29 from supplying power to the set ofbathing unit components47. As such, thecontroller30 is operative for monitoring thebathing unit system10 for causing thepower control device33 to cut the power to the set ofbathing unit components47 in the case where an abnormal operational condition is detected. In a non-limiting example of implementation, the abnormal operational condition is associated to thecontroller30, itself.

In the non-limiting embodiment shown, thecontroller30 includes apower control device33, aprocessing module40, acircuit element50 and amemory unit48 that is in communication with theprocessing module40.

It should be understood that theprocessing module40 and thememory unit48 can be integrated into a single physical element or be implemented as distinct elements without detracting from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Moreover, it is also to be understood that theprocessing module40, thememory unit48, and thecircuit element50 could be part of a single printed circuit board mounted within the housing of thecontroller30.

Thememory unit48 is operative for storing measurements and values associated with normal operational conditions of thebathing unit system10, such that the data stored within thememory unit48 may be used by theprocessing module40 when thebathing unit system10 is in use. The measurements and values stored in thememory unit48 can be entered into thememory unit48 via an input port in thecontroller30. For example, the auxiliary I/O device51 can upload the data to theprocessing module40 such as to cause the measurements and values associated with normal operational conditions of thebathing unit system10 to be written into thememory unit48. The auxiliary I/O device51 can be a laptop, a PDA or a cellular phone, for example, and can transmit signals to theprocessing module40 over a wireless link or a wire-line link without detracting from the sprit of the invention. For example, the link between the auxiliary I/O device51 and thecontrol unit58 can be configured to be used as a serial link such as RS-232, RS-485 or other serial link standard. In an alternative example, the link between the auxiliary I/O device51 and thecontrol unit58 may be a wireless link such as a RF or IR link. In such an alternative example, thecontroller30 includes a receiver adapted to receive signals over the wireless link from the auxiliary I/O device51. The auxiliary I/O device51 is equipped with a corresponding wireless transmitter to transmit the signal to the controller receiver. In yet another embodiment, thememory unit48 may be directly programmable by the auxiliary I/O device and theprocessing module40 may be by-passed during the programming operation.

In an alternative embodiment, the storage in thememory unit48 of measurements and values associated with normal operational conditions of thebathing unit system10 can be effected by a self-programming operation. More specifically, during this self-programming operation, theprocessing module40 obtains measurements and values associated to different operational conditions of thebathing unit system10 and stores those measurements and values in thememory unit48. Theprocessing module40 is operative to determine whether the measurements/values are “normal” prior to storing them in thememory unit48. A more detailed description of a self-programming operation is described in more detail in the parent case filed on Feb. 2, 2004.

In yet another alternative embodiment, the measurements and values associated with normal operational conditions of thebathing unit system10 can be entered into theprocessing module40, and stored in thememory unit48, via entries submitted by the user through thecontrol panel32.

In yet another alternative embodiment, the measurements and values associated with normal operational conditions of thebathing unit system10 can be pre-programmed into thememory unit48.

Thememory unit48 may be implemented using any suitable memory device such as an EPROM, EEPROM, RAM, FLASH, disc or any other suitable type of memory device. In a preferred implementation, thememory unit48 includes a non-volatile memory component and thecontrol unit58 stores the measurements and values in the non-volatile memory component of thememory unit48. As will be further detailed below, the information stored in the memory unit can be used by theprocessing module40 to detect the occurrence of an abnormal operational condition of thebathing unit system10.

As described above, thecontroller30 includes acircuit element50. Thecircuit element50 is adapted to convert power received from thepower source29, viaservice wiring31, into a particular voltage and/or current to be supplied to a givenbathing unit component47 connected to thecontroller30. Amongst other elements, thecircuit element50 includes a set ofactuators52, such as switches, relays, contactors, or triacs, each adapted to enable or prevent the flow of an electrical current to arespective component47 of thebathing unit system10. As such, each one of thebathing unit components47 of thebathing unit system10 is capable of acquiring either one of an activated state and a non-activated state. In the activated state, theactuator52 associated to a givenbathing unit component47 enables thebathing unit component47 to receive power from thepower source29 by drawing an electrical current at a certain voltage from thecontroller30 via a respective electrical cable. The givenbathing unit component47 is then able to utilize the received power to perform the function for which it was designed. Conversely, in the non-activated state, theactuator52 associated to a given component prevents the given component from receiving power from thecontroller30 and as such, the given component is essentially turned off. For instance, when in the activated state, pump12 draws an electrical current at a certain voltage from thecontroller30 in order to perform the function for which it was designed, which is basically to pump water fromwater receptacle18 throughdrains22, intoheating module60, and back intoreceptacle18 throughjets20. When in the non-activated state, pump12 does not draw any current from thecontroller30 and thus does not perform any pumping action.

In the non-limiting embodiment shown, theprocessing module40 includes adiagnostic unit42 and acontrol unit58. It is thecontrol unit58 of theprocessing module40 that is operative for controlling the distribution of power supplied to the various bathing unit components. By controlling theactuators52, thecontrol unit58 is operative for causing each of thebathing unit components47 to acquire one of the activated and non-activated states. More specifically, thecontrol unit58 is operative for issuing command signals overcommunication line44 for causing respective ones of theactuators52 to either enable or prevent thebathing unit components47 from receiving power, which causes the respectivebathing unit components47 to acquire either the activated or the non-activated state.

Thecontrol unit58 is operative for issuing command signals to thecircuit element50 for causing each of thebathing unit components47 to acquire either the activated or the non-activated state, on the basis of signals received from thecontrol panel32, signals received from thesensors70 and optionally, signals received from the auxiliary I/O device51. For example, in the case where a user enters input command signals at thecontrol panel32, thecontrol unit58 is responsive to receipt of those input command signals to issue signals to thecircuit element50. If a user of thebathing unit system10 desires that the water temperature be increased, the user can enter an input command via thecontrol panel32 indicative that the water temperature should be increased. Upon receipt of this input command signal at thecontrol unit58, thecontrol unit58 issues a signal to thecircuit element50 for causing the actuator associated to the heating module to enable power to be supplied to the heating module. As such, the heating module acquires the activated state such that it acts to heat up the water. Alternatively, thecontrol unit58 may be adapted to receive command signals from the auxiliary I/O device51, which could be in the form of a laptop, a PDA or a cellular phone. It should be appreciated that thecontrol unit58 can communicate with the I/O device51 over a wireless link or a wire-line link without detracting from the spirit of the invention.

In yet another embodiment, thecontrol unit58 can issue signals to thecircuit element50 on the basis of signals received from thesensors70. For example, in the case where thesensor70 is a water temperature sensor, and thecontrol unit58 has been programmed to keep the water temperature within a predetermined temperature range, upon receipt of a signal from thesensor70 indicative that the water temperature has fallen below the minimum temperature value of the predetermined temperature range, thecontrol unit58 issues a signal to thecircuit element50 for causing the heating module to acquire the activated state. Likewise, upon receipt of a signal from thesensor70 indicative that the water temperature has exceeded the maximum temperature value of the predetermined temperature range, thecontrol unit58 issues a signal to thecircuit element50 for causing the heating module to acquire the non-activated state.

As described above, theprocessing module40 further includes adiagnostic unit42 that is in communication with thecontrol unit58. Thediagnostic unit42 is operative for monitoring the operational conditions of thebathing unit system10 in order to detect when an abnormal operational condition of thebathing unit system10 occurs. In a more specific case, thediagnostic unit42 is operative to detect when an abnormal operational condition occurs within thecontroller30 itself. As will be described in more detail further on, upon detection of an abnormal operational condition within thecontroller30, thediagnostic unit42 is operative for causing thepower control device33 to prevent power from being supplied from thepower source29 to the set ofbathing unit components47.

As shown inFIG. 2, thepower control device33 interfaces between thepower source29 and the plurality ofbathing unit components47. As such, the power supplied by thepower source29 to thecircuit element50, viaservice wiring31, passes through thepower control device33. Thepower control device33 is adapted for acquiring a first state and a second state. When thepower control device33 is in the first state, it is activated, meaning that thepower source29 is able to supply power to the set ofbathing unit components47. In general, it is thecontrol unit58 that maintains thepower control device33 in the first state during normal operation of thebathing unit system10. However, as described above, upon detection of an abnormal operational condition, it is thediagnostic unit42 of theprocessing module40 that is operative for causing thepower control device33 to acquire the second state, such that thepower source29 is prevented from supplying power to the set ofbathing unit components47. Consequently, when thepower control device33 is in the second state, regardless of the positions ofactuators52, thebathing unit components47 do not receive any power for operation and thus are all shut off.

As such, thepower control device33 acts as a security feature for preventing thepower source29 from supplying power to the plurality ofbathing unit components47 when an abnormal operational condition occurs within thebathing unit system10, and more specifically within thecontroller30. In general, thepower control device33 is generally caused to acquire the second state when theprocessing module40 detects an abnormal operational condition of thebathing unit system10 that cannot be resolved by thecontrol unit58. In a non-limiting embodiment thepower control device33 can be a power contactor, a latching relay, a non-latching coil, or a plurality of relays that, in combination, are able to cut the power to thebathing unit components47.

As shown inFIG. 2, thepower source29 supplies power to thecontroller30 viaservice wiring31. Theservice wiring31 can include four conductor wires, namely a first line wire (line1), a second line wire (line2, second phase), a neutral wire and a ground wire. In a non-limiting example of implementation, when in the second state, thepower control device33 cuts the power flow from at least one of the first and second line wires, which is sufficient to prevent power for thepower source29 from reaching the set ofbathing unit components47. Providing apower control device33 that is operative to cut only one of the first and second line wires is less costly than providing apower control device33 that is operative to cut multiple line wires. However, in an alternative embodiment, when in the second state, thepower control device33 is operative to cut the power flow along three of the power line wires, namely line1, line2 and neutral.

A more detailed explanation of the manner in which thediagnostic unit42 detects an abnormal operational condition of thebathing unit system10 will be described in more detail below with respect toFIGS. 3 and 4.

It should be understood that although thecontrol unit58 and thediagnostic unit42 are shown as separate elements, the functionality of thediagnostic unit42 and thecontrol unit58 could be integrated into a single element without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. It will also be appreciated that the functionality of theprocessing module40 may be implemented as a programmable logic block or by using any suitable hardware, software or combination thereof.

Flow Chart ofFIG. 3

Shown inFIG. 3 is a broad example of a process used by theprocessing module40 for monitoring the operational conditions of thebathing unit system10. Atstep90, theprocessing module40 monitors one or more operational conditions of thebathing unit system10, and more specifically, one or more operational conditions of thecontroller30. The term “operational conditions” as used herein, refers to measurements associated to various readings, such as temperature readings, power readings and frequency readings, as well as to the presence of certain signals, or abnormal environmental conditions within thecontroller30.

Atstep92, on the basis of the operational conditions monitored atstep90, theprocessing module40 detects whether an abnormal operational condition of thecontroller30 exists on the basis of the operational conditions monitored atstep90. The manner in which theprocessing module40 detects the presence of an abnormal operational condition will be described in more detail below with respect toFIG. 4. In the case where theprocessing module40 does not detect the presence of an abnormal operational condition, theprocessing module40 returns to step90, and continues monitoring the operational conditions of thebathing unit system10. However, in the case where theprocessing module40 does detect the presence of an abnormal operational condition, theprocessing module40 proceeds to step94, wherein it causes thepower control device33 to acquire the second state, such that thepower source29 is prevented from supplying power to thebathing unit components47.

Optionally, once theprocessing module40 has caused thepower control device33 to acquire the second state, theprocessing module40 may proceed to step96, wherein theprocessing module40 provides information to a user of thebathing unit system10. The information provided to a user can be indicative of the fact that thebathing unit components47 have all been shut down, or the information can be indicative of the actual abnormal operational condition that caused thepower control device33 to cause thebathing unit components47 to be shut down. The manner in which information is communicated to one or more users of thebathing unit system10 will be described in more detail below.

It should be understood thatstep90, wherein theprocessing module40 monitors the operational conditions of thebathing unit system10, can occur continuously, or can be initiated periodically at preset time intervals or at random time intervals. For example, a preset time interval could be every minute, or every 30 seconds. In the case wherestep90 is initiated at random time intervals, theprocessing module40 might include a random number generator, for example.

Alternatively, it is within the scope of the present invention forstep90 to be initiated following a certain condition. For example, step90 may be initiated upon reception by theprocessing module40 of a signal indicative of an explicit command to enterstep90. Such a command could be entered by a user of thebathing unit system10 via thecontrol panel32, for example. Alternatively, step90 may be initiated upon start up of thebathing unit system10 or upon the activation and/or deactivation of abathing unit component47. Or, step90 can be initiated each time the user enters a command signal at thecontrol panel32. Other conditions based upon which theprocessing module40 could initiatestep90 will be known to those of skill in the art and as such will not be described in more detail herein.

Diagnostic Unit

42

Shown inFIG. 4 is a more detailed diagram of adiagnostic unit42, in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. As shown, thediagnostic unit42 is in communication with thepower control device33 and thecontrol unit58, and includes anenergy storage unit62, a signalfrequency detection unit64, apower detection unit66, athermal detection unit68 and anoptical detection unit72.

As shown inFIG. 4, in normal operation and upon start up of thebathing unit system10, thecontrol unit78 is operative to issue a signal to thepower control device33 overcommunication link78 for causing thepower control device33 to remain in the first state, such that thepower source29 is able to provide power to the set ofbathing unit components47. It is thediagnostic unit42 that then performssteps90 through94 of the process described above. As will be described in more detail below, in the case where thediagnostic unit42 detects an abnormal operational condition, thediagnostic unit42 is operative to issue a signal to thepower control unit33 from one of the

detection units

64,66,68 and72 listed above, for causing the power control device to acquire the second state, such that thepower source29 is unable to supply power to the set ofbathing unit components47.

In the non-limiting embodiment where thepower control unit33 is a power contactor, as shown inFIG. 4, thecontrol unit58 is operative to issue a signal overcommunication link78 to the power contactor for “setting” the power contactor, such that the power contactor acquires the first state. In the first state, the power contactor is “closed”, thereby permitting thepower source29 to supply power to the set ofbathing unit components47. Upon detection of an abnormal operational condition within thecontroller30, at least one of the

detection units

64,66,68 and72 of thediagnostic unit42 issues a signal to the power contactor for “resetting” the power contactor, such that the power contactor acquires the second state. In the second state, the power contactor is “open”, thereby preventing thepower source29 from supplying power to the set ofbathing unit components47.

In accordance with the non-limiting embodiment shown inFIG. 4, thediagnostic unit42 is operative for monitoring the following operational conditions of thecontroller30, duringstep90 of the method described above:

1. the frequency of a certain signal;
2. the power level supplied by thepower source29;
3. the internal temperature of thecontroller30;
4. the presence of electric arcs within thecontroller30; and
5. the receipt of a command signal indicative that thepower control device33 should acquire the second state.

On the basis of these operational conditions, thediagnostic unit42 is operative for detecting the presence of an abnormal operational condition within thecontroller30. The manner in which thediagnostic unit42 detects the presence of abnormal operational conditions will be described in more detail below with respect to each of the

detection units

64,66,68 and72 listed above.

It should be understood that theprocessing module40 may be implemented as a processor, as discrete logic, as a FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array, as an analog circuit, or as a combination thereof, among other possibilities.

In addition, it should be understood that each of thediagnostic unit42 and thecontrol unit58, as well as thecontroller30 itself, may be implemented as a processor, as discrete logic, as a FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array, as an analog circuit, or as a combination thereof, among other possibilities.

Frequency Detection Unit

64

As shown inFIG. 4, thediagnostic unit42 includes afrequency detection unit64 that is in communication with thecontrol unit58 viacommunication link74. Thefrequency detection unit64 is operative to monitor the pulse frequency of a particular signal issued by thecontrol unit58, where this particular signal is characterized by a known, predetermined frequency value. In a non-limiting example of implementation, the particular signal is generated by the software in thecontrol unit58 on the basis of the speed of software's the main program loop. Thefrequency detection unit64 monitors this particular signal in order to ensure that the frequency of the signal generated on the basis of the speed of the main program loop corresponds to the predetermined frequency value. It should be understood that for the purposes of this specification, the term “frequency value” could also encompass a frequency range.

When thecontrol unit58 is functioning properly, and in accordance with its internal command logic, the particular signal monitored by thefrequency detection unit64 overcommunication link74 will have a pulse frequency that corresponds to a normal frequency value or range. Conversely, when thecontrol unit58 is not functioning properly, for example when the control software is corrupt or lost, no pulse frequency will be received at thefrequency detection unit64, or the particular signal will have a pulse frequency that is outside of the normal frequency range. When this happens, thefrequency detection unit64 determines that thecontrol unit58 is not functioning properly, and may be unable to properly manage thebathing unit components47, which could lead to a potentially dangerous situation for the user. For example, if theheating module60 is in an activated state, and thecontrol unit58 is unable to cause theheating module60 to acquire a non-activated state due to the fact that its internal logic is corrupt or lost, then the water in thewater receptacle18 could overheat to a temperature that is dangerous for a user of thebathing unit system10.

As such, thefrequency detection unit64 is in communication with thecontrol unit58 viacommunication link74, and is operative for detecting an abnormal operational condition within thecontroller30 when the frequency of the particular signal issued by thecontrol unit58 overcommunication link74 has a frequency that does not correspond to a predetermined frequency value or range. In this manner, thefrequency detection unit64 performs a “watchdog” function, with regard to the control unit's command logic and/or software.

As mentioned above, thediagnostic unit42 detects the presence of an abnormal operational condition, when thefrequency detection unit64 detects that the pulse frequency received overcommunication link74 does not correspond to a predetermined frequency value. For example, thediagnostic unit42 detects the presence of an abnormal operational condition, when thefrequency detection unit64 no longer receives a pulse frequency overcommunication link74. This could indicate, for example, that the control unit's software has been lost.

Alternatively, thediagnostic unit42 detects the presence of an abnormal operational condition, when thefrequency detection unit64 detects that the pulse frequency received overcommunication link74 is above or below a predetermined frequency value. For example, in the case where the control unit's software has become corrupt, such that main program loop is executed at a much faster rate than normal, the pulse frequency of the signal received at thefrequency detection unit64 would not correspond to a predetermined frequency value or range. In a non-limiting example of implementation, the predetermined frequency value or range, against which the pulse frequency received overcommunication link74 is compared, is stored in thememory unit48 of the controller. As such, in the case where the predetermined frequency value is a specific frequency value, thefrequency detection unit64 detects the presence of an abnormal operational condition of thecontroller30 when the frequency of the signal received overcommunication link74 does not equal the predetermined frequency value.

Once thefrequency detection unit64 has detected an abnormal operational condition within thecontroller30, meaning that the pulse frequency of the particular signal received from thecontrol unit58 does not correspond to the predetermined frequency value, thefrequency detection unit64 issues a signal for causing thepower control device33 to acquire the second state. As such, in the case where the control unit's58 software is lost or corrupted, thediagnostic unit42 prevents all power from being provided to thebathing unit components47, thereby shutting down thebathing unit components47.

It should be understood that the validation of the processing module's integrity can be done in a variety of other ways that are know in the art.

Power Detection Unit

66

As shown inFIG. 4, thediagnostic unit42 includes apower detection unit66 that receives a reading of the power supplied by thepower source29 viacommunication link76. Thepower20

detection unit

64 is operative to monitor the power issued by thepower source29 in order to ensure that this power does not fall below a predetermined power level.

As such, thepower detection unit66 is operative for detecting an abnormal operational condition within thecontroller30 when the power level supplied by thepower source29 falls below a predetermined power level.

Although not shown inFIG. 4, in a further, non-limiting example of implementation, thepower detection unit66 is further operative to monitor the power exiting frompower transformer57, in order to monitor the lower voltage power being supplied to thecontrol unit58. Thislower voltage30 power is used by thecontrol unit58 to power various circuitry. As shown inFIG. 2, thediagnostic unit42 is operative for receiving such a power reading from thepower transformer57, viacommunication link37. As such, thepower detection unit66 is operative for detecting an abnormal operational condition within thecontroller30 when the power level supplied by thepower transformer37 falls below a predetermined power level.

In a non-limiting example of implementation, the predetermined power levels associated to thepower source29 and thepower transformer57 are stored in thememory unit48 of thecontroller30. As such, thepower detection unit66 detects the presence of an abnormal operational condition of thecontroller30 when the power level supplied by thepower source29 falls below the predetermined power level stored in thememory unit48, or thepower detection unit66 detects the presence of an abnormal operational condition of thecontroller30 when the power level supplied by thepower transformer57 falls below a predetermined power level stored in thememory unit48. The predetermined power level or levels stored in thememory unit48 can be pre-programmed into thememory unit48, or can be entered into thememory unit48 via thecontrol panel32 or an auxiliary I/O device51, or can be entered into thememory unit48 via a self-programming operation performed by theprocessing module40.

It should also be understood that the power level supplied by thepower source29 can be plugged into a formula, such that it is the result of the formula that is compared with a predetermined power level stored in thememory unit48.

In a further non-limiting example of implementation that is not shown in the Figures, the monitoring of the power can be done directly at thepower source29.

Once thepower detection unit66 has detected an abnormal operational condition of thebathing unit system10, thepower detection unit66 issues a signal for causing thepower control device33 to acquire the second state. As such, in the case where there is a loss of the amount of power supplied by thepower source29 or thepower transformer57 to thecontroller30, which may imply a failure of thepower source29 itself and which could lead to problems within thecontroller30, thediagnostic unit42 prevents all power from being provided to thebathing unit components47.

Thermal Detection Unit

68

Referring again toFIG. 4, thediagnostic unit42 further includes athermal detection unit68 that is operative to detect when the internal temperature within thecontroller30 exceeds a predetermined temperature value. As such, thethermal detection unit68 is operative to detect and prevent any abnormal occurrence of overheating within thecontroller30.

Thethermal detection unit68 can include any type of heat sensor known in the art. For example, in a non-limiting embodiment, thethermal detection unit68 can include thermocouples, thermistors, infrared sensor (thermopile) and/or thermal fuses. In a further non-limiting example of implementation, thethermal detection unit68 can include a smoke detector.

As shown inFIG. 2, thecontroller30 includes various different functional components such as theprocessing module40 and thecircuit element50, each of which includes electrical circuitry. During use, this electrical circuitry generates heat. While a certain amount of heat is normal, it is desirable to avoid the case where thecontroller30 overheats abnormally, since such an overheat situation can cause the circuitry, and therefore the functional components, to be damaged. Replacing a damagedcontroller30 can be both time consuming and costly for the owner of thebathing unit system10. Furthermore, in a worse case scenario, the excessive overheating of thecontroller30 can result in an electrical fire within the controller, which can be very dangerous for a user of thebathing unit system10.

As such, in order to avoid the situation where thecontroller30 overheats abnormally, thethermal detection unit68 is operative for detecting an abnormal operational condition within thecontroller30, when the internal temperature of thecontroller30 exceeds a predetermined temperature value. It should be understood that for the purposes of this specification, the term “temperature value” could also encompass a temperature range.

In a first non-limiting example of implementation, such as in the case where the temperature sensor of thethermal detection unit68 is a thermistor, or a thermocouple, the predetermined temperature value is a property of the temperature sensor. For example, the predetermined temperature can be a defined by a thermal fuse. When the internal temperature of thecontroller30 exceeds the predetermined temperature value, the thermal sensor is triggered, thus causing thethermal detection unit68 to detect an abnormal operational condition of thebathing unit system10.

In an alternative non-limiting example of implementation, the predetermined temperature value is stored in thememory unit48 of thecontroller30. As such, thethermal detection unit68 can include a thermometer for taking readings of the internal temperature of thecontroller30, and can compare those readings to the predetermined temperature value stored in thememory unit48. In such an embodiment, thethermal detection unit68 detects the presence of an abnormal operational condition within thecontroller30 when the internal temperature of thecontroller30 exceeds the predetermined temperature value stored in thememory unit48. As described above, the predetermined temperature value stored in thememory unit48 can be pre-programmed into thememory unit48, or can be entered into thememory unit48 via thecontrol panel32 or an auxiliary I/O device51, or can be entered into thememory unit48 via a self-programming operation performed by theprocessing module40.

It should also be understood that the internal temperature of thecontroller30, as determined by thethermal detection unit68 can be plugged into a formula, such that it is the result of the formula that is compared with a predetermined temperature value stored in thememory unit48.

In another alternative non-limiting example of implementation, the predetermined temperature value can be an average temperature value that is obtained based on the temperature within thecontroller30 over a certain amount of time. In such an embodiment, thethermal detection unit68 is operative to regularly measure the temperature within thecontroller30, and to re-compute the average temperature value, based on a series of temperature measurements that are temporarily stored in thememory unit48 and that were taken over the certain amount of time. In this embodiment, thethermal detection unit68 detects an abnormal operational condition within thecontroller30 when the internal temperature value of thecontroller30 exceeds the average of the temperature value taken over a certain amount of time. It should be understood that the average temperature value can be taken based on readings taken over any predetermined amount of time, such as 1 minute, or 1 hour.

In an alternative example of implementation, thethermal detection unit68 is operative for detecting an abnormal operational condition within thecontroller30 when thethermal detection unit68 detects smoke within thecontroller30.

Once thethermal detection unit68 has detected an abnormal operational condition within thecontroller30, meaning that the internal temperature of thecontroller30 exceeds the predetermined temperature value, thethermal detection unit68 issues a signal for causing thepower control device33 to acquire the second state. As such, in the case where the internal temperature of thecontroller30 becomes too hot, thediagnostic unit42 prevents all power from being provided to thebathing unit components47, thereby shutting down thebathing unit components47. As such, damage to thecontroller30, and the possibility of a fire within thebathing unit system10, can be avoided.

Optical Detection Unit

72

As shown inFIG. 4, thediagnostic unit42 also includes anoptical detection unit72 that is operative for detecting the presence of electric arcs within thecontroller30. In general, and as known in the art, arcing is often caused by a joint that has been badly soldered, an overheated connection that results from a worn out relay or other bad components, or a loose connection. In the case where electrical arcs are present, there is the possibility that thecontrol unit58 is not functioning properly. In addition, the occurrence of electrical arcs is undesirable, because they increase the chances of electrical fires, and can cause damage to thecontroller30. In addition, the occurrence of electrical arcs may reduce the life expectancy of theactuators52.

It should be understood that theoptical detection unit72 can include any type of optical sensor known in the art. For example, in a non-limiting embodiment, theoptical detection unit72 can include infrared sensors, phototransitors, LEDs or any other type of light sensing technology.

In use, theoptical detection unit72 is operative to detect an abnormal operational condition of thecontroller30 when there is the presence of electrical arcs within thecontroller30.

Once theoptical detection unit72 has detected an abnormal operational condition of thecontroller30, meaning that there is the presence of electrical arcs within thecontroller30, theoptical detection unit72 issues a signal for causing thepower control device33 to acquire the second state. As such, in the case where electrical arcs occur within thecontroller30, thediagnostic unit42 prevents all power from being provided to thebathing unit components47, thereby shutting down thebathing unit components47.

Emergency-Off Command Signal

In a non-limiting example of implementation, thecontrol unit58 includes an input for receiving an emergency-off command signal from a user of the bathing unit system. For example, the emergency off command signal can be entered by a user via an “emergency” button located on thecontrol panel32 or anywhere else on the spa, or within range of the spa location. Thecontrol unit58 is then responsive to the emergency off command signal for causing thepower control device33 to acquire the second state. For example, in the case where thecontrol unit58 issues a signal overcommunication link78 for causing the power control device to acquire the first state, then upon receipt of the emergency-off signal, thecontrol unit58 ceases to issue a signal overcommunication link78 for maintaining thepower control device33 in the first state. As such, in the absence of a signal from thecontrol unit58 for causing thepower control device33 to remain in the first state, thepower control device33 reverts to the second state. It should be understood that the emergency-off signal entered by a user of the bathing unit system19 could be issued directly to thediagnostic unit42, or thepower control device33, thereby bypassing thecontrol unit58.

In an alternative, non-limiting example of implementation, thecontrol unit58 is operative for detecting when one or more of theactuators52 is stuck. When one or more actuators is stuck open or closed, it means that thecontrol unit48 is unable to control the bathing unit component associated with the stuckactuator52. Depending on the bathing unit component, this can be a dangerous situation. For example, in the case where theactuator52 associated with the heating module is stuck with the heating module in the activated position, thecontrol unit58 has no way to prevent the water temperature from heating to an unsafe temperature. In addition, in the case where an actuator associated with a water pump gets stuck, heat is generated by the water pump, which will cause thebathing unit system10 to overheat and create an unsafe temperature for a user.

Under normal operating conditions, thecontrol unit58 is in communication with awater temperature sensor70 that is operative for taking measurements of the water temperature within thewater receptacle18. As such, thecontrol unit58 can cause the heating module, and the water pumps, to intermittently acquire the activated and non-activated states, such that the water temperature remains within a predetermined temperature range. The predetermined temperature range can be specified by a user via thecontrol panel32 for example.

In the case where anactuator52 associated to either one of the heating module or the water pumps is stuck, such that the water temperature will overheat, thecontrol unit58 will send one or more signals to thecircuit element50, for causing the heating module and/or the water pump to acquire a non-activated state. Simultaneously, thecontrol unit58 will monitor thewater temperature sensor70, and will notice that regardless of the fact that the heating module and/or the water pumps should be in the non-activated states, that the water temperature continues to rise. In a non-limiting example of implementation, when thewater temperature sensor70 indicates that the water temperature has exceeded an upper threshold, thecontrol unit58 will realize that something is wrong, and can cease to issue a signal to thepower control device33, viacommunication link78. In the absence of a signal from thecontrol unit58, thepower control device33 will acquire the second state, wherein it prevents thepower source29 from providing power to thebathing unit components47. As such, in the case where the water temperature is approaching an unsafe temperature, thecontrol unit58 is operative for causing thediagnostic unit42 to cause thepower control device33 to acquire the second state.

Energy Storage Unit

62

In a non-limiting embodiment, thediagnostic unit42 includes anenergy storage unit62 that is operative for storing energy that can be used by thediagnostic unit42 in an emergency situation. For example, in the case where thepower source29 fails to provide sufficient power to thediagnostic unit42, such that thediagnostic unit42 is unable to function properly, thediagnostic unit42 can use the energy reserved in theenergy storage unit62 for causing thepower control device33 to acquire the second state.

Power toControl Unit58

Referring again toFIG. 2, thecontrol unit58 is in communication with thepower source29 viaservice wiring35. In the embodiment shown, the power from thepower source29 passes through apower transformer57 prior to entering thecontrol unit58, such that the voltage can be reduced.

As shown, thecontrol unit58 is powered independently from thepower control device33. This means that even when thepower control device33 is in the second state, such that the power supplied by thepower source29 is interrupted and the set ofbathing unit components47 are shut down, thecontrol unit58 continues to receive power for operation.

It should be understood that althoughFIG. 2 shows that thecontrol unit58 is powered bypower source29 viaservice wiring35, it is within the scope of the present invention for thecontrol unit58 to be powered from a second power source (not shown) that is separate from thepower source29. For example, thebathing unit system10 may include a control unit power source that is dedicated for providing power to thecontrol unit58.

As such, thecontroller30 is designed such that when thepower control device33 is in the second state thecontrol unit58 continues to receive power for operation. This enables thecontrol unit58 to continue certain operational functions even when thepower control device33 has cut off the power from thepower source29 to the set ofbathing unit components47. For example, in a non-limiting embodiment, and as described above with respect tooptional step96 inFIG. 3, in the case where thepower control device33 is caused to acquire the second state, theprocessing module40, and more specifically thecontrol unit58, is operative to provide information to a user. As described above, the information provided to the user can be indicative of the fact that there has been an emergency shutdown of the set ofbathing unit components47, or can be indicative of the abnormal operational condition that caused the emergency shutdown, among other possibilities. Therefore, in accordance withoptional step96 described above with respect toFIG. 3, once thepower control device33 has been caused to acquire the second state, such that it prevents thepower source29 from providing power to thebathing unit components47, thecontrol unit58 conveys information to a user indicative of an error condition.

In the specific non-limiting examples of implementation shown inFIGS. 5A through 5C, thebathing unit system10 includes anoutput module88 in communication with thecontroller30. It is theoutput module88 that is adapted for conveying the information indicative of the error condition to a user of thebathing unit system10.

In the specific example of implementation shown inFIG. 5A, theoutput module88 is a part of thecontrol panel32, and may include, for example, a visual display element and/or an audio element to respectively convey to a human operator visual and/or audible information indicative of an error condition. The visual display element could be, for instance, a liquid-crystal display (LCD) or one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs). As such, the information indicative of an error condition may be conveyed to a user in a visual format by displaying a message on a screen of theoutput module88, or by turning ON (or OFF) an appropriate LED or causing an appropriate LED to blink. Alternatively, the information indicative of an error condition may be conveyed in an audio format such as by producing a beeping sound, or a verbal message from a voice synthesizer.

In another non-limiting embodiment shown inFIG. 5B, theoutput module88 is in the housing of thecontroller30 and is concealed from the user under typical operation. In such an embodiment, theoutput module88 can be accessed by the user when the user realizes that power has been cut off from thebathing unit components47.

In a non-limiting embodiment, thediagnostic unit42 and thecontrol unit58 are in communication with each other such that thecontrol unit58 is operative to identify the abnormal operational condition within thecontroller30 that prompted thediagnostic unit42 to cause thepower control device33 to acquire the second state. For example, thecontrol unit58 is operative to identify whether the abnormal operational condition was caused by a thermal overheat or a loss of power, for example. As such, thecontrol unit58 can convey to a user, via theoutput module88, a text message or code to identify the abnormal operational condition that caused thepower control device33 to acquire the second state. It should be understood that in the case where the abnormal operational condition is an abnormal frequency of the particular signal issued by thecontrol unit58, indicative that the control unit software is corrupt, then thecontroller30 may not be able to convey to the user information indicative of the error condition.

Specific other examples of the manner in which theoutput module88 could convey information indicative of an error condition include, without being limited to: text messages, alpha and/or numeric codes, audible signals, IR/RF signals, color lights and discrete LEDs amongst others.

In an alternative embodiment not shown in the drawings, theoutput module88 is positioned remotely from both thecontrol panel32 and thecontroller30. In such a case, when the messages are displayed in a visual format, theoutput module88 may be positioned anywhere such that the messages may be displayed anywhere in thebathing unit system10 or in the proximity of thebathing unit system10. For example, the message may be displayed on thecontroller30, on any component of the bathing system, on a dedicated user interface, on a user operable console of thebathing unit system10, on an external direct wire device, on a display device positioned on the skirt of thebathing unit system10 or on a device positioned remotely from thecontroller30. In a specific non-limiting implementation, theoutput module88 may be positioned remotely from thecontroller30, such as within a house. Depending on where theoutput module88 is positioned, it should be understood that thecontroller42 can be in either wireless or wire-line communication with theoutput module88.

In another non-limiting embodiment shown inFIG. 5C, theoutput module88 includes a transmitter ortransceiver89 operative to transmit a signal conveying information to a user indicative of an error condition. The signal may include information indicative of the abnormal operational condition within thecontroller30 that caused the emergency shutdown of the bathing unit components. The transmitter/transceiver89 is operative to transmit the signal over either one of a wireless link, such as a radio frequency (RF) link or infra-red (IR) link, or alternatively over a wire-line link. The transmitter/transceiver89 communicates with an auxiliary I/O device51, such as a laptop, a PDA or a cellular phone to convey information indicative of the error condition to a human operator. In a specific non-limiting implementation, the auxiliary I/O device51 is in the form of a dedicated display module suitable to be positioned inside a house and in wireless communication with the transmitter/transceiver89 ofoutput module88. Optionally, theoutput module88 is adapted to transmit a signal toprocessing module40 to confirm the reception of the signal from thebathing unit system10.

In yet another alternative embodiment, instead of conveying the information indicative of an error condition to a user in an audio or visual format via anoutput module88, thecontrol unit58 could store the information indicative of the error condition in thememory unit48, such that a user could obtain the information by downloading it to an auxiliary I/O device51, such as a PDA, cell phone or a laptop computer.

The above description of the embodiments should not be interpreted in a limiting manner since other variations, modifications and refinements are possible within the spirit and scope of the present invention. The scope of the invention is defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.