METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR AN AUTONOMOUSLY RETRACTING HOSE

A swimming pool cleaner coupled to a hose, wherein the hose is configured to automatically extend and retract

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Field of the Disclosure

Examples of the present disclosure relate to a swimming pool cleaner coupled to a hose, wherein the hose is configured to automatically extend and retract based on fluid flowing through a pool connect turbine assembly. More specifically, the flowing fluid may cause an assembly spool to rotate in a first direction, ceasing the flow of fluid then restarting the flow of fluid may rotate a valve from a first position to a second position, and the flowing fluid may cause the assembly spool to rotate in a second direction.

Background

Keeping a swimming pool clean and clear is a major part of being a pool owner. Pool cleaners are self-contained devices that are configured to automatically clean a pool. Pool cleaners may be contain their own internal battery, utilize a suction line, and/or utilize a return side of the pool.

Pressure side pool cleaners are those that attached to the pressure side, via the return line, of a pool's circulation system. Fluid pumped into the pool propels these units. Vacuum side pool cleaners utilize a suction force that is created by removing fluid from the pool via a vacuum line.

Conventional pool cleaners utilize a hose associated with a first end coupled to the return/suction line, and a second side coupled with the pool cleaner. However, after conventional pressure side pool cleaners are finished cleaning the pool, the hose and pool cleaner remain in the pool. This creates unwanted obstacles, hazards, etc. within the pool that requires manual removal of the pool cleaner and the hose after each use.

Accordingly need exist for systems and methods associated with pool cleaner with a housing that is configured to be mounted within or on a pool wall, wherein the hose extends based on fluid flowing through a pool connect turbine assembly, and the system also automatically retracts the hose utilizing the flow of fluid through the pool connect turbine assembly.

SUMMARY

Embodiments disclosed herein describe a system that autonomously stores a hose in a reel and automatically retracts a pool cleaner. In embodiments, fluid may enter the system under pressure or suction from a pool pump. The flow of fluid may cause a turbine to rotate, converting the linear flow of fluid into rotational motion. The flow of fluid may hydraulically move the pool cleaner within the pool, extending the hose from the reel and rotating the reel in a first direction. After the pool cleaner has cleaned the pool, the flow of fluid may cease. Responsive to restarting the flow of fluid from the pool pump, a valve, embedded within the reel may rotate, allowing the flow of fluid to rotate the reel in a second direction. In other embodiments, the rotational motion winds a spring coil. Further, while the fluid is flowing through the system, a hose may unreel. Responsive to ceasing the flow of fluid, the energy stored by the spring coil may cause the hose reel to automatically retract, and pull the pool cleaner to a position adjacent to the reel on the side of pool or into a docking station. In a first embodiment, the system may include a pool with a line, housing, center pivot, hose, and pool cleaner.

The line may be configured to carry pool water from a pump to an outlet, or vice versa. The line may be configured to move fluid from a filtration system back into the pool. In embodiments, the line may be positioned on a sidewall of the pool, on a skimmer, or any other pump.

The housing may be a device that is configured to be coupled with the line and the hose. In embodiments, the housing may be surface mounted onto the sidewall of the pool or be positioned within a recess within the pool wall. The housing may include a pool connector, inner casing, spring, spindle supply line, center pivot, feeder arm, and a hose opening.

The pool connector may include an inlet, turbine, and outlet. The inlet of the pool connector may fluidly connect the housing to the line, such that the housing may receive fluid. Responsive to fluid entering the inlet, a turbine within the pool connector may rotate to convert directional flow into rotational movement. The rotational movement of the turbine may rotate an inner casing, or directly wind/unwind a reel, with or without a gear, which may in turn wind the spring, compress a hydraulic chamber, or store energy via other known means.

As the spring is winding, fluid may flow out of the outlet of the pool connector to the center pivot via the spindle supply line. The center pivot may be a rotation of axis of a feeder arm. The feeder arm may be configured to extend from the center spindle through an opening of the inner casing, and may rotate about the center pivot and transfer fluid from the center spindle into the hose. When the feeder arm is supplying fluid to the hose, the feeder arm may be configured to rotate in a first direction. Responsive to ceasing the flow of fluid through feeder arm, the inner casing may apply pressure against the feeder arm via the spring to rotate the feeder arm, and the inner casing, in a second direction. In embodiments, a turbine, with or without gears or a spring, could act on the inner casing or the center spindle.

The hose opening may be positioned on an outer surface of the housing, and may allow more or less of the hose to be positioned within the housing.

The hose may be a buoyant hose that is configured to carry fluid from the feeder arm to the pool cleaner. The hose may be any type of flexible hollow tube, which can be wrapped around the inner casing when not in use. In embodiments, responsive to the fluid flowing out of the feeder arm the hose may be extend, which may push the pool cleaner. Responsive to fluid no longer flowing through the pool connector, the spring may release its stored energy and automatically retract the hose.

The pool cleaner may be a device that is configured to collect debris and sediment from the swimming pool. The pool cleaner may be configured to move around the pool based on the fluid flowing through the hose. When the hose is extended from the housing, then the pool cleaner may move further away from the housing. When the hose is retracted, the pool cleaner may automatically move towards a docking station or a position proximate to the housing. Therefore, embodiments do not require the manual removable of the pool cleaner from the pool in order for it to be out of the way, the pool cleaner will automatically be pulled by the hose to a location proximate to the housing.

A second embodiment may include a propulsion drum, ported outlet, spring, sliding valve, hose connect arm, at least one winding arm, and an unwinding arm.

The propulsion drum may be configured to be coupled to a return or supply side of a pool pump. The propulsion drum may have a first face that is configured to be mounted flush to a surface of a pool or other support structure, wherein the propulsion drum may be submerged or partially submerged within the pool. The propulsion drum may be configured to rotate in a first direction and a second direction based on fluid flowing through the center pivot, wherein the propulsion drum rotates in both the first direction and the second direction when fluid is flowing from a proximal end to a distal end of the center pivot, or vice versa.

The propulsion drum may include a center pivot, which includes a fixed portion and a ported outlet. The center pivot may be configured to mechanically couple the first face and the second face of the propulsion drum, wherein the center pivot is positioned between the first face and the second face. The fixed portion may be configured to be coupled to a fixed support arm within the first face, and may not rotate. An inner face of the fixed portion of the center pivot may include pivot body grooves. The ported outlet may be configured to rotate based on fluid flowing out of the at least one winding arm, and an unwinding arm.

The ported outlet may be a housing, body, etc. that is substantially tubular in shape, and be coupled to a fixed portion of the center pivot. The ported outlet may have a plurality of outlet ports that extend from an inner circumference of the ported outlet to the outer circumference of the ported outlet. In embodiments, two of the plurality of the ports may be coupled to the winding arms, one of the plurality of ports may be coupled to the unwinding arm, and one of the plurality of ports may be coupled to hose connect arm. In embodiments, based on the rotational positioning of the sliding valve, the sliding valve may be in a first mode and the ported outlet may communicate fluid to the windings arms to rotate the ported outlet in a first direction to wind the hose. Alternatively, the sliding valve may be in a second mode and the ported outlet may communicate fluid to the unwinding arm and the hose connect arm to rotate the ported outlet in a second direction to unwind the hose and move the pool cleaner.

The sliding valve may be configured to be positioned within the ported outlet, wherein the sliding valve is configured to rotate to between a first mode and a second mode. The sliding valve may rotate while the ported outlet is stationary. The sliding valve may have a plurality of valve ports, wherein a number of the valve ports is less than a number of the outlet ports, wherein the valve ports may be positioned on opposite sides of the sliding valve. In embodiments, in the first mode the valve ports may be aligned with the windings arms, and the unwinding arm and the hose connect arm may be blocked by the sidewalls of the sliding valve. This may enable fluid to flow within the sliding valve and ported outlet into the winding arm to rotate the drum in a first direction. In the second mode, the valve ports may be aligned with the unwinding arm and the hose connect arm and the winding arms may be blocked by the sidewalls of the sliding valve. This may enable fluid to flow within the sliding valve and the ported outlet into the unwinding arm and to the pool cleaner.

In embodiments, the sliding valve may include a first open face and a second closed face. The first open face may be configured to allow fluid to flow pass through the sliding valve and out of the valve ports. In embodiments, the pegs, projections, etc. positioned on an outer circumference of the sliding valve that are configured to selectively engage with the pivot body grooves by rotating the sliding valve. More specifically, the pegs may configured to interface with the pivot body grooves embedded within the ported outlet to assist in rotation of the sliding valve and secure the sliding valve in place, wherein the pivot body grooves remain stationary while the sliding valve rotates based on the interfacing of the pegs with the grooves.

The closed face may be configured to restrict fluid from flowing out of the sliding valve, wherein the closed face allows hydraulic forces to act upon an inner surface of the closed face, and the spring to act upon an outer surface of the closed face. The closed face may be positioned adjacent to the spring. The spring may be configured to apply a constant force against the closed face towards a lower surface of the pivot body grooves.

In embodiments, responsive to flowing fluid into the sliding valve, the fluid may cause a hydraulic force to overcome the spring force to engage the pegs with an upper surface of the pivot body grooves, which may align the valve ports with selective ports of the ported outlet. Responsive to ceasing the flow of fluid, the spring force may be greater than the nulled hydraulic force, which may push the pegs towards a lower surface the pivot body grooves. Due to the profiles of the pivot body grooves and the pegs and the elongation of the spring, the sliding valve may rotate. This cycle of flowing fluid and ceasing flowing of fluid, may move the sliding valve between the first mode to the second mode. Responsive to flowing fluid and subsequently ceasing the flow of fluid, the sliding valve may rotate from the second mode to the first mode.

However, in other embodiments, other mechanisms may be utilized to rotate the sliding valve, wherein the sliding valve may rotate based on the profile associated with the sliding valve and pivot body grooves interfacing together due to compressive forces of the spring and the releasing of the spring forces.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG.1depicts an autonomous pool cleaning system100, according to an embodiment. Autonomous pool cleaning system100may include a line110, housing120, hose (not shown inFIG.1), and pool cleaner (not shown inFIG.1).

Line110may be configured to carry pool water from a pump or skimmer to an outlet. The line110may be configured to move fluid from a filtration system back into the pool. Alternatively, line110may be associated with a suction line, and configured to remove fluid from the pool. In embodiments, the line110may be positioned on a sidewall of the pool.

Housing120may be a device that is configured to be coupled with the line110and the hose, and retain and protect the other elements of system100. Housing120may be flush mounted onto the sidewall of the pool, be positioned within a recess within the pool wall, or be positioned within a deck. Housing120may include a pool connector140, inner casing150, spring160, spindle supply line170, center pivot130, feeder arm180, and a hose opening190.

Pool connector140may include an inlet142, turbine144, and outlet146. Pool connector140may be configured to receive fluid from the line110and transfer the fluid to the hose. While the fluid is moving through pool connector140, turbine144may rotate, which may cause spring160to coil and store energy.

Inlet142may be configured to fluidly connect housing140to the line110, such that housing140may receive fluid. Responsive to fluid flowing between inlet142and outlet146, turbine144within the pool connector140may rotate to convert directional flow into rotational movement.

Turbine144may be positioned between inlet142and outlet146, and may be configured to rotate while inlet142and outlet146remain stationary. In embodiments, turbine144may rotate responsive to fluid flowing from inlet142towards outlet146or from outlet146towards142. As such, pool connector140may be configured to operate with either a return line pool cleaner or a suction based pool cleaner.

Inner casing150may be configured to rotate in a first direction to coil spring160and to elongate the hose, and inner casing150may be configured to rotate in a second direction based on energy supplied from spring160and to retract the hose. Inner casing150may include an outer face that is configured to allow the hose to be reeled along the outer surface of inner casing150when stored. Inner casing150may also include an inner surface that is configured to receive and transfer forces to spring160. Additionally, inner casing150may include an orifice where feeder arm180can be extended through. The rim created by the orifice transfers forces to feeder arm180to allow feeder arm180to correspondingly and automatically rotate in the first direction and the second direction.

Spring160may be a mechanical device configured to store and release energy. Spring160may be configured to apply a constant spring force against inner casing150. Spring160may be configured to be coiled to store energy when the pressure applied against spring160a first direction is greater than the spring force. Specifically, turbine144may directly or indirectly rotate inner casing150based on fluid flowing through pool connector140. If the rotational forces generated by turbine144are greater than the constant spring force, spring160may coil to store energy. Responsive to removing the forces created by turbine144, such that the forces applied against spring160are less than the constant spring force, spring160may automatically release the stored energy. This release of energy may rotate inner casing150in a second direction. In other embodiments, spring160may be any device that is configured to store energy, such as hydraulic chambers pneumatic chambers, etc. In embodiments, spring160may be positioned at any desirable location within housing120. For example, spring160may be positioned within pool connector140, within center pivot130, around center pivot130within housing, etc.

Spindle supply line170may be a device that is configured to transfer fluid between outlet146and center pivot130. Spindle supply line170may be a fixed element that is configured to remain stationary.

Center pivot130may be positioned centrally within housing120. Central pivot130may be configured to provide an axis of rotation to feeder arm180, and allow fluid transfer between spindle supply line170and feeder arm180. Center pivot130may include a first portion132and a second portion134. First portion132may be a fixed portion of center pivot and may not rotate. In embodiments, first portion132may be positioned between a pool sidewall and second portion134. Second portion134of center pivot130may be a rotating portion of center pivot130, and second portion134may be positioned in front of first portion132.

Feeder arm180may be configured to rotate along with second portion134of center pivot130. Feeder arm180may include a first end positioned within center pivot130and a second end positioned outside of inner casing150within housing120, wherein the second end of feeder arm180may transfer fluid to a hose connection. In embodiments, the second end of feeder arm180may be configured to be inserted through a hole within inner casing150, wherein a rim of the hole within inner casing150may apply rotational forces against feeder arm180, wherein the rotational forces are generated based on fluid flowing through pool connector140. Responsive to inner casing150rotating in a first direction, feeder arm180may rotate in a first direction. Responsive to inner casing150rotating in a second direction, feeder arm180may rotate in the second direction. Accordingly, the rotational movement of the turbine144within pool connector140may rotate an inner casing150and feeder arm180in a first direction, which may in turn wind spring160. Responsive to the turbine144within pool connector140no longer turning inner casing150in the first direction, spring160may apply forces against inner casing150to turn inner casing150and feeder arm180in the second direction.

Hose opening190may be a hole positioned through a sidewall of housing120. Hose opening190may be configured to allow the hose to be extended and retracted from housing120based on forces generated by fluid flowing through pool connector140and forces generated by spring160. In embodiments, hose opening190may be positioned at a bottom apex of housing, or at any other desirable location within housing120.

The hose may be a buoyant hose that is configured to carry fluid from the feeder arm to the pool cleaner. The hose may be any type of flexible hollow tube, which can be wrapped around the inner casing150when not in use. In embodiments, responsive to the fluid flowing out of the feeder arm180the hose may be extend, which may push the pool cleaner. Responsive to fluid no longer flowing through the pool connector, the spring160may release its stored energy and automatically retract the hose.

The pool cleaner may be a device that is configured to collect debris and sediment from the swimming pool. The pool cleaner may be configured to move around the pool based on the movement of the hose. When the hose is extended from the housing, then the pool cleaner may move further away from the housing. When the hose is retracted, the pool cleaner may automatically move towards a docking station or a position proximate to the housing. Therefore, embodiments do not require the manual removable of the pool cleaner from the pool in order for it to be out of the way, the pool cleaner will automatically be pulled by the hose to a location proximate to the housing120.

FIG.2depicts a front view of system100, according to an embodiment.FIG.2depicts elements described above, and for the sake of brevity a further description of these elements may be omitted.

As depicted inFIG.2, pool connector140may have a plurality of turbines210positioned on the inner circumference of pool connector140. The plurality of turbines140may be angled longitudinally and laterally to efficiently interface with fluid flowing through pool connector140.

Furthermore, at least one gear220may be coupled to spring160and or inner casing150, At least one gear200may be configured to assist in winding or uncoiling spring160, or may assist in rotating inner casing150in the first direction or the second direction. In other embodiments, the at least one gear220may assist in storing energy to rotate inner casing150in the first direction of the second direction.

System100may also include a hose entry point230. Hose entry point230may include bearings, lubricants, etc. which may assist in inserting or removing the hose from housing120.

FIG.3depicts various installation configurations of system100, according to embodiments. Elements depicted inFIG.3may be described above, and for the sake of brevity a further description of these elements may be omitted. As depicted inFIG.3, system100may be installed in a first configuration310, second configuration320, third configuration330, or fourth configuration340. Each of the configurations310,320,330,340may be configured to autonomously control a pool cleaner305.

In the first configuration310, system100may be deck314mounted within a recess312within the deck314. The recess312may include an access panel that is positioned flush over system100. Furthermore, a hose entry port316may be positioned on a sidewall of the pool.

In the second configuration320, system100may be positioned fully within a recess322on the sidewall of the pool. A niche324may be positioned within the recess322, which allows the hose to be extended and retracted.

In the third configuration330, system100may be partially recessed within the sidewall of the pool. Due to the partial recession of system100in the third configuration330, hose entry point230may be exposed. This may the hose to be extended and retracted.

In the third configuration330, system100may be mounted on the sidewall of the pool, such that hose entry point230is exposed.

FIG.4depicts a method400for utilizing an autonomous system associated with a pool cleaner, according to an embodiment. The operations of method400presented below are intended to be illustrative. In some embodiments, method400may be accomplished with one or more additional operations not described, and/or without one or more of the operations discussed. Additionally, the order in which the operations of method400are illustrated inFIG.4and described below is not intended to be limiting.

At operation410, fluid may flow through a pool connector. The fluid may flow in either a suction direction or a pressurized direction, wherein the fluid flows in a linear direction.

At operation420, the linear flow of fluid causes a turbine within a pool connector to rotate. The rotation of the turbine may also correspond rotate an inner casing.

At operation430, the rotation of the turbine causes a spring to coil, and store energy.

At operation440, the flowing fluid may flow through the pool connector, into a center spindle that forms an axis of rotation of the inner casing and to a feeder arm. The outlet of the feeder arm may be positioned between the inner casing and a housing of the system.

At operation450, rotation of the inner casing may cause the feeder arm to rotate in a first direction. The rotation of the feeder arm may allow a hose to elongate from the housing, such that more of the hose is exposed to a body of the pool. The elongation of the hose may move a pool cleaner.

At operation460, the fluid may cease flowing through the pool connector.

At operation470, the spring may release the stored energy due to the spring force being greater than the fluid flow force due to the cessation of the fluid flow. Responsive to the spring releasing the stored energy, the spring may apply forces against the inner casing to rotate the casing in a second direction, which may in turn rotate the feeder arm in the second direction and automatically retract the hose.

FIG.5depicts an alternative embodiment of a system500to automatically extend and retract a hose. Elements depicted inFIG.5may be described above, and for the sake of brevity a further description of these elements may be omitted.

As depicted inFIG.5, a pool connector510with turbines515may be positioned at an axis of rotation of a hose connect520. Furthermore, a coil spring525may be embedded within the pool connector510. When fluid flows through the pool connector510, turbines515may rotate a rotating part of pool connector510, which may coil spring525and rotate hose connect520. Hose connect520may rotate along with a rotating hose ring530.

FIG.6depicts a system100mounted on a sidewall of a pool610, according to an embodiment. Elements depicted inFIG.6may be described above, and for the sake of brevity a further description of the elements may be omitted.

As depicted inFIG.6, a pump640may be configured to communicate fluid to or from pool connector140. Pump640may be configured to supply fluid to pool connector140via return line645, or pump640may be configured to receive fluid via suction line645.

Furthermore, housing120may be positioned below or even with pool coping605, which that a portion of housing120may be positioned above a water line.

FIG.7depicts a front view of system100mounted on the sidewall of a pool, according to an embodiment. Elements depicted inFIG.7may be described above, and for the sake of brevity a further description of the elements may be omitted.

FIG.8depicts a diagram of fluid flowing810to or from pump645through system100, according to an embodiment.

As depicted inFIG.8, responsive to fluid flowing810to or from pump640, a portion815of the energy associated with the flowing fluid810may be utilized by the turbine within the pool connector to coil spring150. Furthermore, as the energy is being harvested by spring150, the inner casing may rotate in a first direction, and allow more of hose620to be exposed within the pool.

Responsive to ceasing of the fluid flowing810to or from pump640, spring150may release the stored energy. This may allow the inner casing to rotate in a second direction, and retract hose620.

FIGS.9-11depict an alternative embodiment to automatically extend and retract a hose, according to embodiments. Elements described in these FIGURES may be described above, and for the sake of brevity an additional description of these elements may be omitted.

FIG.9depicts a side view of a pool connector907that is configured to allow fluid to flow between an inlet and an outlet of the pool connector907. In embodiments, pool connector907may be configured to be coupled with a line via threads905, wherein the line is also coupled with a pump.

As fluid flows through pool connector907, the fluid may interact with a turbine910, causing turbine910to rotate. The rotation of turbine910may cause gears920to rotate, which rotates inner casing150.

FIG.10depicts a system with a nonconcentric turbine1010within pool connector907. The nonconcentric turbine may allow for smaller gears1030to be used, while also limiting the energy capture of turbine1010. More specifically, by not centrally positioning turbine1010within pool connector907less of the fluid flowing through pool connector907may interact with turbine1010. This may allow more of the forces associated with the fluid flow to interact with the pool cleaner.

FIG.11depicts various layouts of turbines and gears within pool connectors. As depicted in the FIGURES, the orientation and positioning the turbines may be different.

FIG.12depicts an autonomous pool cleaning system1200, according to an embodiment. Elements depicted inFIG.12may be described above, and for the sake of brevity another description of these elements may be omitted. System1200may include drum1205, pool connector1210, supply line1220, center pivot1230, valve1240, windings arms1250, unwinding arm1260, and hose connect arm1270.

Drum1205may be a housing that is configured to be coupled with a line from a pool pump, and supply structural support to elements associated with system1200. Drum1205may have a first face1207that is configured to be flush mounted onto the sidewall of a pool while being submerged in water, positioned within a recess within of a pool, or be positioned on or within a deck of the pool. Drum1205may also include rotating face1209. Rotating face1209may be positioned away from first face1207to create an annular space within drum1205, wherein a hose may be stored within the annular space. First face1207and rotating face1209may be configured to rotate together in two directions, which may assist in winding and unwinding the hose.

Pool connector1210may be a channel within drum first face1207that is configured to receive fluid from the pool pump, and transfer the fluid to the hose. Pool connector1210may have a central axis that extends in a plane orthogonal to a sidewall of the pool.

Supply line1220may be a channel, conduit, etc. that is configured to transfer fluid between pool connector1210and center pivot1230. Supply line1220may have a central axis that extends in parallel to the sidewall of the pool.

Center pivot1230may be centrally positioned within housing between first face1207and rotating face1209. Center pivot1230may have configured to provide an axis of rotation for rotating face1209. Center pivot1230may include a first portion1232and a ported outlet1234.

First portion1232may be directly coupled to supply line1220, and be configured to be fixed in place. First portion1232may be a conduit to ported outlet1234.

Ported outlet1234be a conduit, channel, etc. that is substantially tubular in shape. Ported outlet1234may be configured to be coupled to a first portion1232of the center pivot1230, and also be configured to rotate based on hydraulic forces and the positioning of valve1240. Ported outlet1234may have a plurality of outlet ports that extend from an inner circumference of the ported outlet to the outer circumference of the ported outlet. In embodiments, two of the plurality of the ports may be coupled to the winding arms1250, one of the plurality of ports may be coupled to the unwinding arm1260, and one of the plurality of ports may be coupled to hose connect arm1270. In embodiments, valve1240may be configured to selectively cover some, but not all, of the plurality of ports.

Valve1240may be a device with a closed end and an open end that is configured to be positioned within center pivot1230. Valve1240may have a plurality of ports that extend through a circumference of valve, wherein the plurality of ports within valve1240have a similar diameter to those of ported outlet1234. In embodiments, valve1240may have a fewer number of ports than ported outlet1234. For example, valve1240may have two outlets and ported outlet1234may have four outlets. Valve1240may be configured to rotate to be in a first mode to selectively align its ports with ports associated with windings arms1250. Valve1240may also be configured to rotate to be in a second mode to selectively align its ports with ports associated with unwinding arm1260and hose connect arm1270.

In embodiments, valve1240may be configured to change between the first mode and the second mode based in part on ceasing the flow of fluid through center pivot, and subsequently flowing fluid through center pivot1230in a first direction. As such, the transition between modes does not require hydraulic forces acting upon valve1240in a second direction. In embodiments, after transitioning valve1240between modes, valve1240may correspondingly rotate with ported outlet1234. This may enable valve1240to be maintained in the first mode or the second mode until fluid ceases to flow through center pivot1230. More specifically, ported outlet1234may be configured to allow valve1240to move linearly and rotate within ported outlet1234while ported outlet1234remains fixed in place. Ported outlet1234may be fixed in place when a spring force is greater than a hydraulic force. Additionally, ported outlet1234may be configured to rotate along with valve1240when the hydraulic force is greater than the spring force.

Windings arms1250may be projections extending away from center pivot1230in an axis that is orthogonal to a central axis of center pivot1230. Windings arms1250may have jets that are configured to emit fluid in a first direction. When valve1240is in the first mode and to winding arms1250receive fluid, winding arms1250may emit fluid in the first direction, valve1240, ported outlet1234, unwinding arm1260, hose connect arm1270, and rotating face1209may rotate in the first direction. This may enable a hose coupled to hose connect arm1270to wind around center pivot1230.

Windings arms1250may be projections extending away from center pivot1230in an axis that is orthogonal to a central axis of center pivot1230. In other embodiments, winding arms1250may be conduits within rotating face1209extending away from center pivot1230in an axis that is orthogonal to the central axis of center pivot1230. Windings arms1250may have jets that are configured to emit fluid to cause winding arm1250to rotate in a first direction. When valve1240is in the first mode and winding arms1250receive fluid, winding arms1250may emit fluid. This may cause ported outlet1234, winding arms1250, unwinding arm1260, hose connect arm1270, and rotating face1209to rotate in a first direction. This may enable a hose coupled to hose connect arm1270to wind around center pivot1230.

Unwinding arm1260may be a projection extending away from center pivot1230in an axis that is orthogonal to the central axis of center pivot1230. In other embodiments, unwinding arm1260may be a conduit within rotating face1209extending away from center pivot1230in an axis that is orthogonal to the central axis of center pivot1230. Unwinding arm1260may have jets that are configured to emit fluid to rotate unwinding arm in a second direction. When valve1240is in the second mode and unwinding arm1260receive fluid, unwinding arm1260may emit fluid causing valve1240, ported outlet1234, winding arms1250, unwinding arm1260, hose connect arm1270, and rotating face1209to rotate in a second direction. This may enable a hose coupled to hose connect arm1270to wind around center pivot1230. In embodiments, a total cross sectional area associated with the jets of unwinding arm1260may be smaller than a total cross section area associated with the jets associated with winding arms1270. This difference in cross sectional area may enable lower torque on system100when rotating in the second direction, while also allowing for a faster spool of the hose when system100is rotating in the first direction.

Hose connect arm1270may be a projection extending away from center pivot1230in an axis that is orthogonal to the central axis of center pivot1230. In other embodiments, Hose connect arm1270may be a conduit within rotating face1209extending away from center pivot1230in an axis that is orthogonal to the central axis of center pivot1230. Hose connect arm1270may have be configured to be coupled to a hose of a pool cleaner. Responsive to winding arm1260rotating system100in the first direction, the hose may become wound around center pivot1230. Responsive to winding arm1260rotating system100in the second direction, the hose may become unwound, and the pool cleaner may move within the pool.

FIG.13depicts an autonomous pool cleaning system1200, according to an embodiment. Elements depicted inFIG.13may be described above, and for the sake of brevity another description of these elements may be omitted.

As depicted inFIG.13, jets1310positioned on winding arms1250may be configured to emit fluid to rotate system1200in a first direction1312. The jet1320positioned on unwinding arm1260may be configured to emit fluid to rotate system1200in a second direction1322. Accordingly, fluid emitted from the jets1310,1320may be configured to rotate system1200in different directions, which may enable a single pool pump to create hydraulic forces to wind and unwind the hose1330.

FIGS.14and15depict an autonomous pool cleaning system1200, according to an embodiment. Elements depicted inFIG.14may be described above, and for the sake of brevity another description of these elements may be omitted.

As depicted inFIGS.14and15, valve1240with two outlets may be configured to be positioned within ported outlet1234with four outlets. Based on the relative positioning of valve1240within ported outlet1234, in a first position ports1410and1420associated with winding arms1250may be open, or in a second position port1430associated with unwinding arm1260and port1440associated with the hose connect may be open. Valve1240may be configured to move linearly and rotate relative to a static ported outlet1234to transition between the first mode and the second mode.

Furthermore, system1200may include a spring1450and pivot body grooves (not shown). Spring1450may be configured to exert a constant spring force against a closed face1460of valve1240. When fluid is flowing through system1200and into valve1240from the pool pump, the hydraulic forces acting upon valve1240may be greater than the constant spring force, which may cause spring1450to compress and vertically align ports with valve1240with selected ports of ported outlet1234. Responsive to ceasing the flow of fluid, the constant force may be greater than the hydraulic forces acting upon valve1240. This may allow spring1240to elongate and a profile associated with an open face of valve1240to interface with a profile of pivot body grooves to rotate valve1240from the first mode to the second mode, or from the second mode to the first mode.

In other words in a first cycle, when water pressure beings acting on valve1240when valve1240is in a first mode, spring1450may compress and fluid may flow out of the winding arms1250to wind the hose. Next, fluid may cease flowing into valve1240causing spring1450to elongate, and interfacing the open end of valve1240to interface with the pivot body grooves. This may rotate valve ninety degrees to be in the second mode. When water pressure beings acting on valve1240when valve1240is in the second mode, spring1450may compress and fluid may flow out of the unwinding arm1260and hose connect arm1270to unwind the hose. Next, fluid may cease flowing into valve1240causing spring1450to elongate, and interfacing the open end of valve1240to interface with the pivot body grooves. This may rotate valve ninety degrees to be in the first mode.

Furthermore, pegs1510, projections, etc. may be positioned on an outer circumference of valve1240. The pegs may be configured to interface with the pivot body grooves within the ported outlet1234to rotate valve1240.

FIG.16depicts a ported outlet1234, according to an embodiment. Elements depicted inFIG.16may be described above, and for the sake of brevity another description of these elements may be omitted.

As depicted inFIG.16, portlet outlet1234may include pivot body grooves1710. Pivot body grooves1710may have an upper surface1720and a lower surface1730. Both upper surface1720and lower surface1730may be slanted, angled, etc.

When the spring force applied against the valve in a first direction is greater than a hydraulic force applied to the valve in a second direction, the pegs1510associated with the valve may interface with the profile on the lower surface1730of pivot body grooves1710. Due to the tapering of the lower surface1730and the pressure applied by the constant spring force, when pegs1510interface with lower surface1730, the valve may rotate.

When the spring force applied against the valve in a first direction is less than a hydraulic force applied to the valve in a second direction, the pegs1510associated with the valve may interface with the profile on the upper surface1720of pivot body grooves1710. Due to the tapering of the upper surface1720and the pressure applied by the hydraulic forces, when pegs1510interface with lower surface1730, the valve may rotate.

More specifically, spring1450may be positioned adjacent to a closed face of valve1240, and be configured to apply a constant spring force against the closed face of valve1240. An upper surface of pivot body grooves1610may have a first profile that is configured to interface pegs1510of the open face of valve1240responsive to the constant spring force being greater than a hydraulic force applied to the closed face of valve1240. Responsive to the constant spring force being greater than the hydraulic force applied to the closed face of valve1240, spring1450may move valve1240in an opposite direction of the flow of fluid from the pump. This linear movement of valve1240will cause the pegs1510to interface with lower surface1730, rotating the valve in a first direction while ported outlet1234remains static. This interfacing may rotate the valve 45 degrees. Responsive to reinitiating the flow of fluid in a direction opposite the constant spring force, the flow of fluid may cause linear movement of valve1240while pegs1510interface with the upper surface1730to rotate the valve another 45 degrees. This process may be similar to that of a retractable pen, and may be utilized to rotate the valve1240between the first mode and the second mode.

FIG.17depicts sequences associated with pegs1510interfacing with pivot body grooves1710, according to an embodiment. The sequences depicted inFIG.17may correspond to those illustrated inFIG.18.

As depicted inFIG.17, pegs1510may be configured to transition between being positioned adjacent to lower surfaces1730and upper surfaces1720based on a constant spring force and hydraulic forces being applied to the valve.

When the constant spring force is greater than the hydraulic forces, pegs1510may interface with lower surfaces1730, sliding in a first rotational and first linear direction. When the constant spring force is less than the hydraulic forces, pegs1510may interface with upper surfaces1720, sliding in the first rotational and a second linear direction. This rotational movement may allow the valve to selectively align its ports with the ports within ported outlet1234.

FIG.18depicts a method1800for utilizing an autonomous system associated with a pool cleaner, according to an embodiment. The operations of method1800presented below are intended to be illustrative. In some embodiments, method1800may be accomplished with one or more additional operations not described, and/or without one or more of the operations discussed. Additionally, the order in which the operations of method1800are illustrated inFIG.18and described below is not intended to be limiting.

At operation1810, fluid may flow through a central pivot in a first direction when the valve is in a first mode. The hydraulic forces applied by the flowing fluid against the valve may overcome a spring force. This may push pegs on an outer circumference of the valve against upper surfaces of pivot body grooves within a ported outlet, which rotates the valve. This rotation of the valve may move the valve from a second mode to a first mode.

At operation1820, fluid may exit the central pivot through the ports in the valve and first ports within a ported outlet, while two other ports within the ported outlet remain sealed. The first set of ports receiving fluid may emit the fluid out of two jets associated with winding arms. This may rotate the assembly in a first direction to wind a hose, while the valve remains in the first mode rotating along with the ported outlet.

At operation1830, fluid may cease flowing through the central pivot.

At operation1840, a spring force acting upon the valve may push the valve in a second direction. This spring force may move pegs of the valve against lower surfaces of pivot body grooves within a fixed portion of the central pivot, which rotates the valve. This rotation of the valve may partially move the valve from a first mode to a second mode.

At operation1850, fluid may flow through the central pivot in the first direction while the valve is in the second mode. The hydraulic forces applied by the flowing fluid against the valve may overcome the spring force. This may push the pegs of the valve against upper surfaces of pivot body grooves within the ported outlet, which rotates the valve. This rotation of the valve may fully move the valve from a first mode to a second mode.

At operation1860, fluid may exit the central pivot through the ports in the valve and a second set of ports within a ported outlet, while the first set of ports within the ported outlet remain sealed. The second set of ports receiving fluid may emit the fluid out of two jets associated with a winding arm and a hose connect arm. This may rotate the assembly in a second direction to unwind the hose, while the valve and ported outlet remain in the second mode.

At operation1870, fluid may cease flowing through the central pivot.

At operation1880, responsive to ceasing flowing fluid the constant spring force applied by the spring acting upon the valve may push the pegs of the valve against lower surfaces of the pivot body grooves, which rotates the valve. This rotation of the valve may partially move the valve from the second mode to the first mode mode.

FIG.19depicts an autonomous pool cleaning system1900, according to an embodiment. Elements depicted inFIG.19may be described above, and for the sake of brevity an additional description of these elements may be omitted.

Pool wall connection1910may be configured to receive fluid via a pump, which may flow the received fluid to alternating valve1920in a similar manner to that of valve1230. Alternating valve1920may be configured to rotate between a first mode to a second mode based on fluid flowing through alternating valve1920in a first direction, ceasing to flow through alternating valve1920, and resuming flowing fluid through alternating valve1930in the first direction. In the first mode, alternating valve1920may have a port that is configured to supply fluid to turn turbine1930in clockwise. In the second mode, the port of alternating valve1920may be configured to supply fluid to turn turbine1930counter clockwise (or vice versa).

Responsive to turbine1930turning, turbine1930may correspondingly turn gears1940, alternative gear interface1950, or directly turn center pivot1960. As such, when turbine1930rotates clockwise, turbine1930may directly or indirectly turn center pivot1960clockwise, and when turbine1930rotates counter clockwise, turbine1930may directly or indirectly turn center pivot counter clockwise.

The rotating of center pivot1960may correspondingly turn supply arm1970and hose connect1980. This may enable center pivot1960to wind and unwind a hose within drum or hose storage1990, which may be in an annular space outside of center pivot1960. To this end, system1900may rotate supply arm1970in a forward and rearward direction based on flowing fluid in a single direction from pool wall connection1910. By flowing fluid through valve1920at a flow rate less than a flow rate threshold and then increasing the flow rate through valve1920to be higher than the flow rate threshold, valve1920may change between the first mode and the second mode. This may correspondingly change a rotational direction of turbine1930.

FIG.20depicts an autonomous pool cleaning system2000, according to an embodiment. Elements depicted inFIG.20may be described above, and for the sake of brevity an additional description of these elements may be omitted.

As depicted inFIG.20, pool wall connection1910, alternating valve1920, turbine1930may be externally positioned from drum1990.

In other words, the alternating rotary valve1920may be configured to rotate to alternate flow to an opposite side of turbine1930on each on-off pump cycle from the pool pump. As the turbine1930rotates it engages with drum1990causing drum1990to rotate. Each successive pool pump-on off cycle may be configured to rotate valve9120to alternate the flow of turbine1930to alternate the flow of drum1990to wind and unwind a hose.