Patent Publication Number: US-2022218564-A1

Title: Smart water fill system for spa

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Field of the Invention 
     The present invention generally relates to control of spa systems. More specifically, the present invention relates to an intelligent or smart water fill system to solve overflow issue in the pedicure spa industry. This smart system utilizes a water flow sensor and with intelligent electronics and embedded software to measure the actual volume of water to be filled and keep track of flow rate and time for future use as a backup in case the flow sensor fails. 
     Description of the Related Art 
     Spa devices, components, and systems are known in the art. Spa devices are used in commercial and recreational settings for hydrotherapy, massage, stimulation, pedicure, and bathing purposes. In the spa application setting, the issues with sanitization in the spa industry today require the use of a liner, such as a disposable liner. But with a liner, traditional water sensors in spa devices and settings, such as foot spas, will not be able to effectively detect fluids or water anymore. Thus, there exists a need for a pump having a contactless, fluid sensor adapted for use with a liner for dispensing a fluid to a setting such that fluid or water level can be effectively detected in a setting, such as, but not limited, a foot spa, a spa, a jacuzzi, a bathtub, or a swimming pool. 
     In addition, typical spa devices include a motor that drives a pump to circulate water from the spa device. In particular, a shaft of the motor is used to directly mount an impeller, which is then used to circulate water into and out of the spa device. Since the motor may not operate wet, a seal or a series of seals may be required to prevent water from entering the motor. The seals will wear to the point where water will enter the motor and consequently, the entering water may cause the motor to burn out. At this point, the motor assembly will need to be replaced in order to continue operation. This is expensive and may take several hours in which to perform. 
     Further, because typical spa devices have extensive piping systems that are built into the spa device to transport water, the spa devices are traditionally difficult to clean. This results in downtime and complicated maintenance schedules to clean such spa devices. Furthermore, if a spa device has a light source associated with it, to replace or repair such a light source can be time consuming and complicated when the light source is not easily accessible. 
     In the spa environment, water is commonly added with certain substances and/or products, such as salt, chemicals, sand, massage lotions, etc. Due to this reason, traditional bearings, such as ball bearings and metal bushings, will not be suitable for a long term and reliable operation. The presence of chemicals and sand, for example, will cause some or many currently available bearings to wear out quicker than normal and result in pump failures. 
     Additionally, for magnetic coupling-type pumps, it is almost impossible to have a perfect alignment between the motor shaft axis and the impeller rotation axis. The imperfect alignment or misalignment will result in high vibration noise. 
     The present invention overcomes one or more of the shortcomings of the above described spa devices, components, and systems. The Applicant is unaware of inventions or patents, taken either singly or in combination, which are seen to describe the present invention as claimed. 
     Spa systems, in particular, pedicure spa systems, are becoming increasingly advanced with more and more functions being added thereto. The water overflow during the filling of the basin is occurring very often and is a major safety concern for the client/customer and technician/operator/employee. Therefore, it is beneficial to have an intelligent automatic water filling system to prevent the water overflow for pedicure spa system. 
     Some cities consider pedicure spas as a smaller size of a hot tub and have recently applied hot tub rules. This rule requires that a spa must have the water temperature displayed and the temperature cannot exceed 104 degree. This is a big change for nail salon owners. There are also a lot of people who are super-sensitive to hot water on their feet or putting their feet in water that is too cold. Moreover, many clients do not like to see an operator use their hands to determine the comfort of the water temperature. Therefore, it is beneficial to have a temperature-sensing mechanism, device, apparatus, or system that can monitor and display the temperature of the water filling in the basin. 
     In addition, a jet pump (water pump or air pump) is often desirable in a pedicure spa system to disturb the fluid that is in the tub of the pedicure spa system. In that regard, a control feature for the jet pump is desirable. 
     During use, an operator may need to add more water or use water to clean or wash. In that regard, a control feature for adding water is desirable. 
     Moreover, for drainage of the tub of a pedicure spa system, it may be desirable or necessary to have a drainage pump that can remove the used water. In that regard, a control feature for the drainage pump is desirable. 
     It is desirable for pedicure spa systems to have the features noted above. An implementation having these features will entail control mechanisms, sensing, and monitoring requirements. Accordingly, what is desirable is a pedicure spa system that implements the features noted above and includes an integrated controller to control such features. Moreover, also desirable is a controller that is scalable so that it can be used to control many of the features noted above, or just a few of the features noted above. Also desirable is that the controller be partitionable in a manner so that only one partition is needed for retrofitting existing pedicure spa systems without requiring another partition of the controller. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The traditional water fill control systems use water level sensors to detect the water level and that is used as a baseline for the system to shut off the water supply. There are two types of water level sensor, contact and contactless, but both types have disadvantages. A contact sensor is usually made by metal to detect the impedence (water). Since the pedicure spa service uses many chemicals, including salt, over time, the chemicals and dirty water add contamination to the surface of the sensor and degrade the sensitivity of the sensor. As shown in U.S. Pat. No. 10,302,088, a contactless sensor requires an electronic circuit and software program. This increases cost to the system, and the contactless sensor itself has failure rate too. The present invention is a smart automatic water fill system, an improvement to solve disadvantages of contact and contactless water sensors mentioned above. 
     Over time, the water flow sensor (or water flow counter) may fail. If the water flow sensor fails, the system stops working because the system has no feedback from the water level sensor. The present invention implements an intelligent diagnostic software that can monitor the health of the flow sensor. System software keeps monitoring the time to fill the basin and record the elapsed time in memory. In case the water flow sensor fails, or the system receives invalid data from the flow sensor, the system software will automatically switch to time control as a backup. In this backup mode, the volume setting switches to time setting mode. The system uses time to control the filling volume based on the recorded time elapsed from the last successful operation. Thus, the user still can operate the apparatus without interruption. 
     The system of the present invention comprises a control keypad, preferably a touch screen keypad that is waterproof and easy to clean. 
     Another aspect of this invention is the method to reduce system cost for labor assembly work and the component counts. 
     In one exemplary aspect, the present invention is directed to a pump having a contactless, fluid sensor for dispensing a fluid to a setting and for use with a liner. The pump comprises a jet assembly, a motor assembly, and a contactless, fluid sensor assembly with a contactless, fluid sensor. The pump may further comprise a mounting housing member or coupling device, a gasket or seal, and a liner when a liner is not already present. 
     In another exemplary aspect, the present invention is directed to a pump apparatus comprising a pump having a contactless, fluid sensor for dispensing a fluid to a setting and for use with a liner. In addition to comprising the pump, the pump apparatus further comprises a power source for providing power to the pump, and/or a control apparatus. 
     The jet assembly is secured, attached or coupled to the mounting housing. 
     In a non-limiting embodiment, the jet assembly includes a jet assembly housing, and preferably also includes a printed circuit board (PCB), a PCB cover, a shaft assembly, and an impeller. 
     The jet assembly housing includes a base, a front or top cover, an impeller-receiving chamber defined by the base and front or top cover, at least one inlet aperture dimensioned and configured to allow a fluid to enter the jet assembly housing, and at least one outlet aperture dimensioned and configured to allow the fluid to exit or be dispensed from the jet assembly housing into a setting. 
     The impeller, preferably a magnetic impeller, is configured to rotate about the shaft member and to rotate within the impeller-receiving chamber such that rotation of the impeller causes fluid to enter or flow into the inlet aperture and to exit or flow out of the outlet aperture. 
     The motor assembly may include and/or be coupled to the power source that enables rotation of the shaft member and impeller. 
     The contactless, fluid sensor assembly includes a contactless, fluid sensor or sensor circuit board, and may also include a sensor cover and a sensor output data cable. 
     The contactless, fluid sensor may be secured, attached, fixed or mounted to any position on the other components of the pump, such as, but not limited to, the mounting housing member or coupling device, or even be positioned at a location away from the pump, that allows the sensor to be in operative communication with the other components of the pump whereby the contactless, fluid sensor is effective, especially when a liner is being used in or with the setting, in capacitive sensing of fluid or water level in the setting such that the amount or volume of fluid or water can be controlled. 
     In a further exemplary aspect, the present invention is directed to a method for dispensing a fluid to a setting by use of a pump having a contactless, fluid sensor adapted for use with a liner. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a front, right side, perspective view of a pump having a contactless, fluid sensor according to the present invention, showing a jet assembly and a motor assembly secured or coupled to or about one another; 
         FIG. 2  is a rear, left side, perspective view of the pump of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a right side, partial cross-sectional, environmental view of the pump of  FIG. 1 , wherein the motor assembly is secured to or proximate to a setting, such as an internal wall of a foot spa, while the jet assembly will be secured or coupled to or about the motor assembly prior to operation or use, wherein a liner will be positioned between the motor assembly and jet assembly prior to operation or use, and wherein a contactless, fluid sensor is shown positioned about the motor assembly and behind the liner prior to operation or use; 
         FIG. 4  is an exploded, perspective view of the pump of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  is an exploded, perspective view of a jet assembly and a mounting housing member or coupling device according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 6  is a front view of a contactless, fluid sensor assembly according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 7  is a rear, perspective view of a front or top cover of a jet assembly housing according to the present invention, showing an inner surface of the front or top cover; 
         FIG. 8  is an exploded, perspective view of a shaft assembly according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  is an assembly, perspective view of the shaft assembly of  FIG. 8 ; 
         FIG. 10  is an assembly, perspective view of the shaft assembly of  FIG. 8  positioned relative to a jet assembly housing (without a front or top cover) of a jet assembly; 
         FIG. 11  is an exploded, perspective view of a bearing assembly of a bearing and shaft assembly according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 12  is an assembly, perspective view of the bearing assembly of  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 13  is an assembly, perspective view of the bearing assembly of  FIG. 11  positioned within a cavity of an impeller; 
         FIG. 14  is an exploded, perspective view of the bearing assembly of  FIG. 11 , the shaft assembly of  FIG. 8 , and a jet assembly (with a front or top cover); 
         FIG. 15  is an assembly, perspective view of the bearing and shaft assembly of  FIGS. 8 and 11 , and the impeller and jet assembly housing of the jet assembly (without the front or top cover) of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 16  is an assembly, perspective view of the bearing and shaft assembly of  FIGS. 8 and 11 , and the impeller and jet assembly housing of the jet assembly (with the front or top cover) of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 17  is a perspective view of a magnetic, coupling-type pump according to the present invention, showing a jet assembly and a motor assembly secured or coupled to or about one another, and not including a contactless, fluid sensor assembly nor a liner; 
         FIG. 18  is a cross-sectional view of the magnetic, coupling-type pump of  FIG. 17 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of a pump apparatus according to the present invention, showing a pump and a control device or keypad being connected to a control box; 
         FIG. 20  is a schematic view of a control box according to the present invention, showing the control box being in operative connection or communication with a pump, a control device or keypad, a fluid valve, and a power source; 
         FIG. 21  is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of controlling fluid or water level in a setting via the use of a pump having a contactless, fluid sensor according to the present invention, showing the relationships or associations of various components, such as a control keypad or device being in operative connection or communication with the pump, a control box, a fluid valve, and a power source; 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view of a pedicure spa apparatus according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 23  is a side view of a keypad apparatus according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 24  is a top view of a keypad apparatus according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 25  is a side view of a control box apparatus according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 26  is a perspective view of a control box apparatus according to the present invention, showing some external components of control box; 
         FIG. 27  is a side view of a solenoid valve, a temperature sensor, and a water flow sensor apparatus according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 28  is a chart of a flow sensor pulses according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 29  is a diagram of a smart auto water system apparatus according to the present invention, showing the connections of a keypad, a control box, a solenoid valve, a temperature sensor, a water flow sensor, a hot and cold water mixer, and a water sprayer or water fall; 
         FIG. 30  is a plot of experimental data of a smart auto water system apparatus according to the present invention; and 
         FIG. 31  is a system block diagram of an embodiment of a smart automatic water fill system apparatus according to the present invention. 
     
    
    
     It should be understood that the above-attached figures are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-21 , the present invention is directed to a pump  10 , 300 , preferably a magnetic, coupling-type pump, having a contactless, fluid sensor  241  for dispensing a fluid to a setting SET, such as, but not limited, to a foot spa, a spa, a jacuzzi, a bathtub, or a swimming pool, and for use with a liner  290 . The pump  10  comprises a jet assembly  180 , a motor assembly  200 , and a contactless, fluid sensor assembly  240  having a contactless, fluid sensor  241 . The pump  10  may further comprise a mounting housing member or coupling device  250 , a gasket or seal  265 , and/or a liner  290  when a liner is not already provided or present. In addition, the present invention is also directed to a pump apparatus  1 . Besides comprising the pump  10 , the pump apparatus  1  further comprises a power source  400  for providing power to the pump  10 , and/or a control apparatus  410 . 
     The jet assembly  180  is secured, attached or coupled to the motor assembly  200 , and this may be accomplished by various means. As a non-limiting example and as shown in  FIGS. 1-4 , the jet assembly  180  is secured, attached or coupled to or about the motor assembly  200  by the assistance of the mounting housing member  250 . 
     As a non-limiting example and as best shown in  FIGS. 4 and 7-16 , the jet assembly  180  preferably includes: a jet assembly housing  181  that has a printed circuit board (PCB)  270  and a PCB cover  280 ; a shaft assembly  140 ; and an impeller  170 . As an alternative, the jet assembly  180  may be substituted with the jet assembly  180 ′. As shown in  FIGS. 8-18 , the jet assembly  180 ′ includes: a jet assembly housing  181  that does not have the PCB  270  nor the PCB cover  280 ; a bearing and shaft assembly  100 ; and an impeller  170 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1, 3-5, 7, 10 and 14-16 , the jet assembly housing  181  includes a base  182 , a front or top cover  183 , an impeller-receiving chamber  184  defined by the base  182  and front or top cover  183 , a plurality of inlet apertures  185  dimensioned and configured to allow a fluid to enter the jet assembly housing  181  and preferably disposed about the central area of the front or top cover  183 , and a plurality of outlet apertures  186  dimensioned and configured to allow the fluid to exit or be dispensed from the jet assembly housing into the setting SET and preferably disposed about the periphery of the front or top cover  183 . 
     As best shown in  FIGS. 4, 10 and 14-16 , the base  182  of the jet assembly housing  181  has an inner surface  191 , an outer surface  192 , a circular wall  193  at or about the periphery of the base  182 , a plurality of feet extensions  198 , and a plurality of engagement recesses or grooves  199 . Preferably, the outer surface  192  is generally flat or has a generally flat, centrally-located section  557  that allows for a liner  290  to be positioned behind (or below) the base  182  of the jet assembly housing  181  and in front of (or above) the contact surface of the setting SET and motor assembly  200 , as shown in  FIG. 3 . The circular wall  193  has an inner surface  194 , an outer surface  195 , a front or top  196 , and a rear or bottom  197 . Each of the plurality of feet extensions  198  extends outwardly from about the rear or bottom  197  of the circular wall  193 , and has a knob  299  extending rearwardly or downwardly from the corresponding feet extension  198  for engaging with the mounting housing member  250 . Each of the plurality of engagement recesses or grooves  199  is positioned at a predetermined location about the outer surface  195  of the circular wall  193  for engaging with and securing the front or top cover  183 . The base  182  may be made or manufactured of plastic, hard plastic, and/or any other suitable material known to one of ordinary skill in the art. 
     As best shown in  FIGS. 1, 4, 7, 14 and 16 , the front or top cover  183  of the jet assembly housing  181  has an inner surface  231 , an outer surface  232 , a circular wall  233  at or about the periphery of the front or top cover  183 , a plurality of engagement protrusions  238 , and a lock-receiving cavity  239 . The circular wall  233  has an inner surface  234 , an outer surface  235 , a front or top  236 , and a rear or bottom  237 . Each of the plurality of engagement protrusions  238  is positioned at a predetermined location about the inner surface  234  of the circular wall  233  for engaging with a corresponding engagement recess or groove  199  of the base  182  such that the base  182  and front or top cover  183  may be detachably secured to one another prior to and during operation or use and also may be detachably unsecured from one another after operation or use for allowing access to the components, maintenance, etc. The lock-receiving cavity  239  is configured and positioned at a predetermined location about the inner surface  231  of the front or top cover  183  such that the lock-receiving cavity  239  receives the tip of the shaft member  150  (or locking mechanism  159 ′) when the base  182  and front or top cover  183  are detachably secured to one another prior to and during operation or use. The front or top cover  183  may be made or manufactured of plastic, hard plastic, and/or any other suitable material known to one of ordinary skill in the art. 
     Preferably, the plurality of inlet apertures  185  form an outer diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the impeller  170 . 
     Preferably, each of the outlet apertures  186  has a nozzle. Preferably, each of the nozzles and an axis of the pump  10 , 300  form an angle less than 90 degree. 
     As shown in  FIG. 4 , the PCB  270  of the jet assembly housing  181  has a “disc-like” configuration or shape, and includes a front or top side  271 , a rear or bottom side  272 , a hole  273 , a plurality of inductive coils  274 , and a light source  275 , such as, but not limited to, a plurality of LED light members  275 . The hole  273  allows the shaft member  150  to pass through, and is preferably centrally located. The plurality of inductive coils  274  are positioned at predetermined locations on the front or top side  271  proximate the hole  273 . The plurality of LED light members  275  are positioned at predetermined locations on the front or top side  271  about the periphery of the PCB  270 , and provide lighting or illumination to the jet assembly housing  181 . The PCB  270  is secured or attached to the base  182  prior to operation or use such that the rear or bottom side  272  of the PCB  270  is adjacent or in close proximity to the inner surface  191  of the base  182 . The PCB  270  may be secured or attached to the base  182  by any method known to one of ordinary skill in the art. 
     Preferably, the light source  275  is configured to emit a light that illuminates the first fluid, when the magnetic array  177 , 210  is driven. The impeller  170  causes the first fluid to flow into the plurality of inlet apertures  185  and out the plurality of outlet apertures  186 . Illuminating the first fluid via the light source  275  includes providing energy to the light source  275  via magnetic waves captured by the inductive coils  274 , which are positioned between the impeller  170  and base  182  of the jet assembly housing  181 . As a non-limiting example, the parameter of the illumination includes at least one of intensity, color, illumination sequencing, and any combination thereof. 
     As shown in  FIG. 4 , the PCB cover  280  of the jet assembly housing  181  has a “disc-like” configuration or shape, and includes a front or top side  281 , a rear or bottom side  282 , a hole  283 , and a plurality of LED light member covers  285 . The hole  283  allows the shaft member  150  to pass through, and is preferably centrally located. The plurality of LED light member covers  285  are positioned at predetermined locations on the front or top side  281  about the periphery of the PCB cover  280 , and are adapted for being secured or attached with corresponding LED light members  275  of the PCB  270 . The PCB cover  280  is positioned upon the PCB  270  such that the rear or bottom side  282  of the PCB cover  280  is adjacent or in close proximity to the front or top side  271  of the PCB  270 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 4, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15 and 17 , the shaft assembly  140  includes the shaft member  150 , the shaft protection member  160 , and, preferably, the locking mechanism  159 . 
     The shaft member  150  includes a base  152  and a cylindrical body  154  extending upwardly from the base  152 . The cylindrical body  154  has a first end  156  and a second end  158 . As best shown in  FIG. 4 , the shaft member  150  and shaft protection member  160  are secured, attached, fixed or mounted within the housing  181 , preferably in a central location upon the inner surface  191  of the base  182  of the housing  181 , of the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′ via the base  152  of the shaft member  150  being secured, attached, fixed or mounted to the base  182  of the housing  181 . The cylindrical body  154  has a first end  156  and a second end  158 . The shaft member  150  is preferably made or manufactured of steel or a metal material. It is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that other suitable materials may be used in the making or manufacturing of the shaft member  150 . Also, the shaft member  150  is preferably made or manufactured as a single piece. It is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that the shaft member  150  may be made or manufactured as multiple pieces. 
     The shaft protection member  160  includes a base  162 , preferably a ring-like base, and a cylindrical body  164  extending upwardly from the ring-like base  162 . The cylindrical body  164  has a first end  166 , a second end  168 , and a cavity  169  extending from the first end  166  to the second end  168 . As shown in  FIG. 8 , the cavity  169  is dimensioned and configured for receiving the cylindrical body  154  of the shaft member  150 . The shaft protection member  160  is preferably made or manufactured of a hard material, such as ceramic or a ceramic-type material. It is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that other suitable materials may be used in the making or manufacturing of the shaft protection member  160 . Also, the shaft protection member  160  is preferably polished or super smooth on its outer surface. Further, the shaft protection member  160  is preferably made or manufactured as two pieces. It is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that the shaft protection member  160  may be made or manufactured as a single piece. 
     The locking mechanism  159  secures the impeller  170 , preferably the magnetic impeller  170 , within the housing  181  of the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′. The locking mechanism  159  may be a locking nut that, when in use, is secured onto the second end  158  of the cylindrical body  154  of the shaft member  150 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 4, 14 and 15 , the impeller  170 , preferably a magnetic impeller  170  and more preferably a planar magnetic impeller  170 , has an outer diameter and a “disc-like” configuration or shape, and includes a front side  172 , a rear side  174 , a sidewall  176 , a circular array of arm members  178  positioned on the front side  172 , and the centrally-disposed cavity  179  dimensioned and configured for receiving the outer bearing member  120 , inner bearing member  130 , shaft member  150 , and shaft protection member  160 . The centrally-disposed cavity  179  preferably extends from the front side  172  through to the rear side  174 . The magnetic impeller  170  is configured to rotate about the shaft member  150  and shaft protection member  160  and to rotate within the impeller-receiving chamber  184 . Preferably, the magnetic impeller  170  is formed in whole or in part of a magnetic pole array  177  that, as discussed below, interacts with magnetic pole array  210  of the motor assembly  200  to rotate the magnetic impeller  170  about the shaft member  150  and shaft protection member  160  such that rotation of the magnetic impeller  170  causes the fluid to flow into the inlet aperture  185  and out the outlet aperture  186 . As a non-limiting example, the magnetic impeller  170  may contain a magnetic plate within an exterior made or manufactured of rubber or a rubber-like material. It is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that the magnetic impeller  170  may be other types of magnetic impellers that is know in the art. 
     As best shown in  FIG. 18 , the motor assembly  200  includes a motor  202 , a magnetic pole array  210  such that the motor  202  is configured to drive the magnetic pole array  210 , a mounting housing member  250 , a gasket  265 , a shaft member  150  that is coupled to the magnetic pole array  210 , and a plurality of screws with wing nuts  258  to support the pump mounting. The mounting housing member  250  and gasket  265  preferably enclose all or a substantial portion of the magnetic pole array  210 , and help to keep fluids and/or substances away from the motor  202  and magnetic pole array  210  so that contamination and/or damage is reduced or prevented. The magnetic pole array  210  is formed of magnetic material and/or is magnetized in order to generate a magnetic field  212 . 
     In that regard, the motor assembly  200  may include and/or be coupled to a power source  400  that enables rotation of the shaft member  150 . Upon operation of the motor assembly  200 , the shaft member  150  is rotated such that the magnetic field  212  generated by the magnetic pole array  210  moves or fluctuates in accordance with the rotation of the magnetic pole array  210 . 
     Furthermore, the motor assembly  200  may further include an air channel (not shown), or air channel member (not shown). In that regard, the air channel includes an inlet (not shown) and outlet (not shown). The air channel, in part, enables the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′ to produce a jet stream of fluid that includes an air mixture. 
     As best shown in  FIGS. 1-5 , the mounting housing member  250  helps to secure, attach or couple the jet assembly  180  and motor assembly  200  together, or at least in proximity of one another, such that the jet assembly  180  and motor assembly  200  are in operative communication with one another. The mounting housing member  250  includes a front (or top) side  251 , a rear (or bottom) side  252 , the sensor-receiving cavity  253  located about the periphery of the front (or top) side  251 , a plurality of engagement holes or ports  255 , a plurality of mounting legs  256  extending rearwardly (or downwardly) from the rear (or bottom) side  252 , and at least one wing nut  258 . Preferably, the front (or top) side  251  is generally flat or has a generally flat, centrally-located section  257  that allows for a liner  290  to be positioned behind (or below) the base  182  of the jet assembly housing  181  and in front of (or above) the front or top side  251  of the mounting housing member  250  and motor assembly  200 , as shown in  FIGS. 3-5 . The sensor-receiving cavity  253  is dimensioned and configured for receiving the contactless, fluid sensor or sensor circuit board  241 , and preferably has a hole or opening  254 . Each of the plurality of engagement holes or ports  255  is dimensioned and configured for receiving the corresponding knob  299  that extends rearwardly or downwardly from the corresponding feet extension  198  of the base  182  of the jet assembly housing  181 . The securement, attachment or engagement of the knobs  299  of the plurality of feet extensions  198  to or inside the plurality of engagement holes or ports  255  of the mounting housing member  250  prevents the rotation of the base  182  and front or top cover  183  of the jet assembly housing  181  when the pump  10 , 300  is in operation, and thus form the jet assembly rotation locking mechanism. Each of the plurality of mounting legs  256  has a first end  259 , a second end  260 , and a hollow channel  261  extending from the first end  259  toward the second end  260 . Each hollow channel  261  is dimensioned and configured for receiving a corresponding screw (not shown) of a plurality of screws when the motor assembly  200  is to be secured to the mounting housing member  250 . Preferably, the wing nut  258  rotates to extend out to provide a lock for the securement or installation of the mounting housing member  250  and motor assembly  200  to one another. The plurality of screws and wing nut  258  secure or attach the mounting housing member  250  and motor assembly  200  to one another when the user screws or tightens the screws into the hollow channel  261  of the mounting legs  256  and rotates the wing nut  258 . The tightening of the screws into the hollow channel  261  of the mounting legs  256  and rotation of the wing nut  258  causes pressure to be applied to the gasket or seal  265  such that a strong seal will form between the gasket or seal  265  and contact surface of the setting SET. The mounting housing member  250  may be made or manufactured of plastic, hard plastic, and/or any other suitable material known to one of ordinary skill in the art. Preferably, the mounting housing member  250  is made or manufactured of a plastic material to allow for magnetic field penetration from the motor assembly  200 , without any, or with minimal, magnetic field loss. This allows for a magnet or magnets of smaller size, in comparison to a magnet or magnets needed when the mounting housing member  250  is made or manufactured of a non-plastic material, to be used, and, thus, reducing cost for magnets. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the gasket or seal  265 , preferably a ring-shaped or ring-type gasket, acts or serves as a fluid or water seal to prevent fluid or water from getting past the contact surface of the setting SET and making contact with the motor assembly  200  during use of the pump  10 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , the gasket  265  is secured to and positioned below (or behind) and adjacent to the rear or bottom side  252  of the mounting housing member  250  and above (or in front of) and adjacent to the contact surface of the setting SET. Preferably, the gasket  265  is made or manufactured of a rubber material. 
     As a non-limiting example and as best shown in  FIGS. 2, 4 and 6 , the contactless, fluid sensor assembly  240  includes a contactless, fluid sensor or sensor circuit board  241 , a sensor cover  244 , and a sensor output data cable or cable connector  245 . 
     The contactless, fluid sensor  241  is secured, attached, fixed or mounted to the sensor-receiving cavity  253  of the mounting housing member  250 . Preferably, the contactless, fluid sensor  241  is a contactless, capacitive fluid sensor  241 . It is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that the contactless, fluid sensor  241  can be secured, attached, fixed or mounted to any position on the other components of the pump  10 , such as, but not limited to, the mounting housing member  250 , or even be positioned at a location away from the pump  10 , that allows the contactless, fluid sensor  241  to be in operative communication with the other components of the pump  10  whereby the contactless, fluid sensor  241  is effective, especially when a liner  290  is being used in or with the setting SET, in capacitive sensing of fluid or water level within the setting SET such that the amount or volume of fluid or water can be controlled. The contactless, fluid sensor  241  preferably includes a plurality of connections  242  for data wiring and an electronic circuit  243  for capacitive sensing of fluid or water level within the setting SET such that the amount or volume of fluid or water within the setting SET can be controlled when a liner  290  is being used within the setting SET. When in use or operation, a liner  290  is positioned behind the base  182  of the jet assembly housing  181  and in front of the contactless, fluid sensor  241  such that the liner  290  prevents the fluid within the setting SET from making contact with the contactless, fluid sensor  241 . 
     The sensor cover  244  is secured, attached, fixed or mounted to the contactless, fluid sensor  241 , and provides protection for the contactless, fluid sensor  241  against fluid or water, chemicals, substances, etc. that are present in the setting SET. Preferably, the sensor cover  244  is dimensioned and configured to cover all or substantially all of the contactless, fluid sensor  241 . Preferably, the sensor cover  244  is made or manufactured of a non-metal material. 
     The sensor output data cable or cable connector  245  operatively connects with, or is in operative communication with, the plurality of connections  242  for data wiring of the contactless, fluid sensor  241  through the hole or opening  254  of the sensor-receiving cavity  253 . 
     As a non-limiting example and as best shown in  FIG. 3 , the liner  290 , preferably a disposable liner  290 , may be included with the pump  10  or may be provided by an operator or user of the setting SET. The liner  290  is positioned between the base  182  of the jet assembly housing  181  and the mounting housing member  250 , with the contactless, fluid sensor  241  being secured, attached, fixed or mounted to the mounting housing member  250 , such that the fluid or water, chemicals, substances, etc. that are present in the setting SET do not make contact with the contactless, fluid sensor  241 . The liner  290  helps to provide proper or adequate hygiene for customers or users. Preferably, the disposable liner  290  is made or manufactured of a plastic material or any other material known to one of ordinary skill in the art. If the liner  290  is not a disposable version, then it is preferred that the liner  290  is made or manufactured of a material that is easily washed or cleaned, or any other material known to one of ordinary skill in the art. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 19 and 20 , the power source  400  provides power to the pump  10 , 300 , and preferably provides power to the motor  202  of the motor assembly  200  of the pump  10 , 300  to drive the impeller  170 . As a non-limiting example, the power source  400  may be AC power input, at least one battery, or any power source known to one of ordinary skill in the art. As shown in  FIGS. 19 and 20 , the motor  202  may be connected to the power source  400  via the control box  420  of the control apparatus  410 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 19 and 20 , the control apparatus  410  preferably includes the control box  420  and a control keypad or device  430 . The control box  420  preferably includes at least one inlet  422  for being in operative communication with the power source  400 , and multiple outlets  424  for being in operative communication with the pump  10 , 300  and control keypad or device  430 . The control keypad or device  430  preferably acts as a remote control device to be able to turn the pump  10 , 300  on and off, to adjust how much fluid the fluid or water valve should allow to be added into and/or to be removed or drained from the setting SET, etc. In addition, it is preferred that the control keypad or device  430  is operable to control at least one of the intensity, color, illumination sequencing, and any combination thereof for the array of LED light members  275 . 
       FIG. 21  shows a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of controlling fluid or water level in a setting via the use of a pump  10 , 300  having a contactless, fluid sensor  241  according to the present invention, showing the relationships or associations of various components, such as the control keypad or device  430  being in operative connection or communication with the pump  10 , 300 , the control box  420 , a fluid valve, and the power source  400 . 
     As best shown in  FIGS. 8-14 , the bearing and shaft assembly  100  is comprised of a bearing assembly  110  comprising an outer bearing member  120  and an inner bearing member  130 , and a shaft assembly  140  comprising a shaft member  150 , a shaft protection member  160 , and a locking mechanism  159 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 11-14 , the outer bearing member  120  and inner bearing member  130  perform as a bearing. The inner bearing member  130  absorbs vibration and noise when in use with other components of the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′. 
     The outer bearing member  120  includes a base  122 , preferably a ring-like base, and a cylindrical body  124  extending upwardly from the ring-like base  122 . The ring-like base  122  has a predetermined thickness. The cylindrical body  124  has a first end  126 , a second end  128 , and a cavity  129  extending from the first end  126  to the second end  128 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 11-14 , the cavity  129  is dimensioned and configured for receiving the inner bearing member  130 . Preferably, when in use, the outer bearing member  120  and inner bearing member  130  are closely or tightly positioned relative to one another such that they form an effective seal. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , the outer bearing member  120  is dimensioned and configured for fitting, preferably closely or tightly fitting, within a centrally-disposed cavity  179  of the impeller  170 , preferably a magnetic impeller and more preferably a planar magnetic impeller, of the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′. Preferably and as best shown in  FIG. 13 , the ring-like base  122  of the outer bearing member  120  and first end  136  of the cylindrical body  134  of the inner bearing member  130  are substantially flush with the rear side  174  of the magnetic impeller  170  when the outer bearing member  120  and inner bearing member  130  are positioned within the centrally-disposed cavity  179  of the magnetic impeller  170 . Preferably, the centrally-disposed cavity  179  of the magnetic impeller  170  is dimensioned and configured for effectively receiving the bearing assembly  110  prior to use, and also for effectively retaining the bearing assembly  110  when in use. The outer bearing member  120  is preferably made or manufactured of a plastic material or engineered plastics. It is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that other suitable materials may be used in the making or manufacturing of the outer bearing member  120 . 
     The inner bearing member  130  includes cylindrical body  134  having first end  136 , a second end  138 , and a cavity  139  extending from the first end  136  to the second end  138 . As shown in  FIGS. 11-14 , the cavity  139  is dimensioned and configured for receiving the shaft member  150  and shaft protection member  160  of the shaft assembly  140 . The inner bearing member  130  is preferably made or manufactured of rubber or a rubber-like material. It is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that other suitable materials may be used in the making or manufacturing of the inner bearing member  130 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 8-10 and 14 , the shaft member  150  includes a base  152  and a cylindrical body  154  extending upwardly from the base  152 . The cylindrical body  154  has a first end  156  and a second end  158 . As best shown in  FIG. 10 , the shaft member  150  and shaft protection member  160  are secured, attached, fixed or mounted within the housing  181 , preferably in a central location upon the inner surface  191  of the base  182  of the housing  181 , of the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′ via the base  152  of the shaft member  150  being secured, attached, fixed or mounted to the base  182  of the housing  181 . The cylindrical body  154  has a first end  156  and a second end  158 . The shaft member  150  is preferably made or manufactured of steel or a metal material. It is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that other suitable materials may be used in the making or manufacturing of the shaft member  150 . Also, the shaft member  150  is preferably made or manufactured as a single piece. It is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that the shaft member  150  may be made or manufactured as multiple pieces. 
     The shaft protection member  160  includes a base  162 , preferably a ring-like base, and a cylindrical body  164  extending upwardly from the ring-like base  162 . The cylindrical body  164  has a first end  166 , a second end  168 , and a cavity  169  extending from the first end  166  to the second end  168 . As shown in  FIG. 8 , the cavity  169  is dimensioned and configured for receiving the cylindrical body  154  of the shaft member  150 . The shaft protection member  160  is preferably made or manufactured of a hard material, such as ceramic or a ceramic-type material. It is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that other suitable materials may be used in the making or manufacturing of the shaft protection member  160 . Also, the shaft protection member  160  is preferably polished or super smooth on its outer surface. Further, the shaft protection member  160  is preferably made or manufactured as two pieces. It is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that the shaft protection member  160  may be made or manufactured as a single piece. 
     The locking mechanism  159  secures the impeller  170 , preferably the magnetic impeller  170 , within the housing  181  of the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′. The locking mechanism  159  may be a locking nut that, when in use, is secured onto the second end  158  of the cylindrical body  154  of the shaft member  150 . 
     In addition, when the magnetic coupling-type pump  300  is assembled as shown in  FIGS. 17 and 18 , the jet assembly  180 ′ is positioned adjacent or in close proximity to the mounting housing member  250  and motor assembly  200 . The jet assembly  180 ′ is preferably magnetically coupled to the motor assembly  200  when the jet assembly  180 ′ is positioned adjacent or in close proximity to the mounting housing member  250 . The jet assembly  180 ′ and mounting housing member  250  can be secured or coupled to one another by any method and/or device known to one of ordinary skill in the art. 
     In operation or use and as shown in  FIGS. 5 and 10-14 , the base  152  of the shaft member  150  and base  162  of the shaft protection member  160  may be secured, attached, fixed or mounted preferably in a central location upon the inner surface  191  of the base  182  of the housing  181  of the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′ of the magnetic coupling-type pump  10 , 300 . The bearing assembly  110  may then be positioned in the cavity  179  of the magnetic impeller  170 , which can then be positioned within the impeller-receiving chamber  184  of the housing  181  of the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′. The locking mechanism or nut  159  can then be secured to the second end  158  of the cylindrical body  154  of the shaft member  150  to secure the magnetic impeller  170  within the housing  181  of the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′. 
     Preferably when in operation or use and as shown in  FIGS. 17 and 18 , the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′ is positioned adjacent or in close proximity to the motor assembly  200  when the magnetic coupling-type pump  10 , 300  is fully assembled. In that regard, the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′ is preferably magnetically coupled to the motor assembly  200  when the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′ is positioned adjacent or in close proximity to the motor assembly  200 . Specifically, the magnetic pole array  210  of the motor assembly  200  and the magnetic pole array  177  of the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′ magnetically couple together the motor assembly  200  and the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′. 
     Moreover, during operation of the motor assembly  200 , the shaft member  150  is rotated such that the magnetic field  212  generated by the magnetic pole array  210  of the motor assembly  200  moves or fluctuates in accordance with the rotation of the magnetic pole array  210  of the motor assembly  200 . This moving or fluctuating magnetic field  212  moves and/or causes rotation of magnetic pole array  177  of the magnetic impeller  170 . Additionally, as discussed in greater detail below, rotation of the magnetic impeller  170  results in fluid being drawn towards the magnetic impeller  170  through inlet apertures  185  and such fluid to be propelled out of the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′ through the outlet aperture  186 . 
     In a further exemplary aspect, the present invention is directed to a method for dispensing a fluid to a setting using a pump  10 , 300  having a contactless, fluid sensor  241  and the pump being for use with a liner  290 , the method comprising the steps of: 
     securing a pump  10 , 300  to a setting SET, 
     wherein the pump  10 , 300  comprises a motor assembly  200  comprising a motor  202 , a jet assembly  180 , 180 ′ secured to or about the motor assembly  200 , and a contactless, fluid sensor assembly  240  comprising a contactless, fluid sensor  241 , 
     wherein the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′ is in operative communication with the motor  202 , 
     wherein the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′ comprises a jet assembly housing  181 , a shaft member assembly, and an impeller  170  having an outer diameter, 
     wherein the jet assembly housing  181  comprises a base  182 , a top cover  183 , an impeller-receiving chamber  184  defined by the base  182  and the top cover  183 , at least one inlet aperture  185 , and at least one outlet aperture  186 , 
     wherein the base  182  of the jet assembly housing  181  comprises an inner surface  191  and an outer surface  192 , 
     wherein the top cover  183  of the jet assembly housing  181  comprises an inner surface  231  and an outer surface  232 , 
     wherein the shaft member assembly comprises a shaft member  150  secured to the base  182  of the jet assembly housing  181 , 
     wherein the at least one inlet aperture  185  is disposed about the housing  181  and is dimensioned and configured to allow a fluid to enter the jet assembly housing  181  when in operation, 
     wherein the at least one outlet aperture  186  is disposed about the housing  181  and is dimensioned and configured to allow the fluid to exit from the jet assembly housing  181  and enter a setting SET when in operation, 
     wherein the impeller-receiving chamber  184  is dimensioned and configured to receive the impeller  170  and to allow the impeller  170  to rotate about the shaft member  150  within the impeller-receiving chamber  184 , and 
     wherein the impeller  170  is caused by the motor  202  to rotate within the impeller-receiving chamber  184  when in operation, wherein the rotation of the impeller  170  causes a first fluid to enter the jet assembly housing  181  via the at least one inlet aperture  185  and to exit the jet assembly housing  181  via the at least one outlet aperture  186 ; 
     securing a liner  290  to the pump  10 , 300  (preferably), or the setting SET, 
     wherein the contactless, fluid sensor  241  is secured at a predetermined location on the pump  10 , 300  that is rearward of both the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′ and the liner  290  being used within the setting SET such that the contactless, fluid sensor  241  does not make contact with a fluid when in operation, wherein the contactless, fluid sensor  241  is able to detect a fluid level in the setting SET such that the amount or volume of fluid within the setting SET can be controlled; 
     causing rotation of the impeller  170  about the shaft member assembly and positioned within the impeller-receiving chamber  184  defined by the housing  181  of the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′; 
     allowing the fluid to enter the housing  181  of the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′ through the at least one input aperture  185  disposed about the housing  181  of the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′; 
     disturbing the entered fluid with the rotating impeller  170 ; and 
     dispensing the entered fluid through the at least one output aperture  186  disposed about the housing  181 . 
     In addition, the method above may further include: wherein the shaft member assembly is a bearing and shaft assembly  100  that is comprised of a bearing assembly  110  comprising an outer bearing member  120  and an inner bearing member  130 , and a shaft assembly  140  comprising a shaft member  150 , a shaft protection member  160 , and a locking mechanism  159 . 
     Furthermore, the method above may further include: 
     wherein the outer bearing member  120  further comprises a base  122  comprising a cavity, wherein the cylindrical body  124  of the outer bearing member  120  extends upwardly from the base  122 , wherein the cavity of the base  122  is dimensioned and configured for receiving the inner bearing member  130 , 
     wherein the shaft member  150  further comprises a base  152 , wherein the cylindrical body  154  of the shaft member  150  extends upwardly from the base  152  of the shaft member  150 , and 
     wherein the shaft protection member  160  further comprises a base  162  comprising a cavity, wherein the cylindrical body  164  of the shaft protection member  160  extends upwardly from the base  162  of the shaft protection member  160 , and wherein the cavity of said base  162  is dimensioned and configured for receiving the shaft member  150 . 
     Additionally, the method above may further include: 
     wherein the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′ is adapted for being secured to a pump  10 , 300 , such as a magnetic coupling pump  10 , 300  and the like, wherein the impeller  170  is a magnetic impeller  170  comprising a magnetic pole array  177 , wherein a motor assembly  200  of the magnetic coupling pump  300  comprises a motor  202 , a magnetic pole array  210 , and a shaft member  208  adapted for being rotated such that a magnetic field  212  generated by the magnetic pole array  210  of the motor assembly  200  moves or fluctuates in accordance with the rotation of the magnetic pole array  210  of the motor assembly  200 , wherein the motor  202  drives the magnetic pole array  210  of the motor assembly  200 , wherein the magnetic field  212  moves and/or causes rotation of the magnetic pole array  177  of the magnetic impeller  170 , and wherein rotation of the magnetic impeller  170  results in the fluid being drawn towards the magnetic impeller  170  through the at least one inlet aperture  185  and the fluid to be propelled out of the jet assembly  180 , 180 ′ through the at least one outlet aperture  186 . 
     Further, the method above may further include: 
     wherein the outer bearing member  120  is manufactured of a plastic material or engineered plastics, wherein the inner bearing member  130  is manufactured of rubber or a rubber-like material, wherein the shaft member  150  is manufactured of steel or a metal material, and wherein the shaft protection member  160  is manufactured of a hard material. 
     Furthermore, the method above may further include any of the parts, steps and/or details that have been described in the above paragraphs with regard to the improved bearing and shaft assembly  100 , jet assemblies  180 , 180 ′, and pumps  10 , 300 , such as magnetic coupling pumps  10 , 300  and the like. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 22-31 , another embodiment of present invention is directed to a smart automatic water fill system used for pedicure spa and similar applications. 
     As best shown in  FIG. 22 , a pedicure spa  500  comprises at least a massage chair  502 , LED light  505 , a spa tub  506 , a basin  504 , a spa jet pump (water pump or air pump)  10 , a hot and cold water mixer  508 , a control keypad (preferably capacitive touch or touch-screen keypad)  512 , a sprayer or waterfall head  510 , a drain outlet  514 , hot water inlet  517 , cold water inlet  518 , and control box  540 . The keypad housing can be made from any hard material, preferably plastic. Some spa manufacturers combine the tub  506  and the basin  504  in one unit and call it a tub. Unless specified, otherwise this invention calls a tub means combination of a tub and a basin. 
     As best shown in  FIG. 23 , a control keypad  512  comprises a housing  514 , a top label  516 , a secure nut  518 , and a body  520  extending though the surface of the tube  506  or basin  504 . The body  520  comprises thread for fitting the secure nut. There is a rubber gasket (not shown) to seal the water when the keypad is installed to the tub. Top label  516  is preferably made by acetone-proof material. 
     As shown in  FIG. 24 , a control keypad  512  is for user interface. It comprises a keypad housing  514  and a PCB (not shown) with electronics components and embedded software (not shown) to display and respond to a user input to a button, a digital display  522  to display temperature and time, a power indicator  528 , a temperature display indicator  525 , and a time display indicator  527 . Temperatures can be displayed in F (Fahrenheit) and/or C (Celsius) unit. As a non-limiting example, an operator or user can touch and hold any button for about three seconds or longer to change the unit between Fahrenheit (F) and Celsius (C). As another non-limiting example, an operator or user can touch and hold any button for about three seconds or longer to display the number of times the auto water fill system has been used. 
     The control keypad  512  further comprises four buttons, auto  532 , jet  524 , drain  526 , and wash  530 , that are capacitive touch based upon instantaneous changes in capacitance on the electrodes located beneath the button label. This prevent faulty triggers due to water spills of wet environments. Control keypad  512  also provides advantage as no mechanical moving parts are involved, no button overlay cracking due to press force, flat surface for easy to clean and sanitize. Control keypad  512  is intended to be mounted on a tub (or basin) surface that is easy for operator access, while the control box  540  is intended to be mounted and hidden inside the tub  506  body. Control keypad  512  communicates with the control box  540  through an electrical cable or wirelessly. 
     The control keypad  512  comprises a PCB circuit board (not shown) located inside the housing  514  and below the surface of the top label  516 . The circuit board comprises the electronics circuits that include touch button controller, LED display controller, and an interface with the control box. 
     In a further exemplary aspect, the present invention is directed to a method for automatic water fill system, the method comprising the steps of: Pressing AUTO button  532  will activate an automatic water fill. The water valve  570  will open, the sprayer (or water fall)  580  will fill the basin  504 . Until a preset number of gallons is met or an elapsed time is met with recorded time the water valve  570  will shut off to prevent the overflow. The jet pump  10  and LED light  505  are also automatically turned on. 
     In one non-limiting example, the digital display  522  alternately displays the temperature of water inside the inlet pipe and the time that system is turned on. Temperature display helps operator to monitor and adjust the water mixer  508  to desire temperature. 
     The system  500  also provides the user a capability to use it as a manual system: pressing the WASH button  530  will open the water valve  570  for water to flow into the basin  504  without overflow monitoring. In other embodiment, WASH button can be called ADD button. The warning beep sound is also enabled. Pressing the JET button  524  will activate jet pump  10 . Pressing the END/DRAIN button  526  will activate a drain pump to drain the water from the basin  504  through the drain outlet  514 . The drain pump is plugged to the time controlled outlet  552  and will be automatically turned off as soon as time elapsed is met a preset value. 
     As shown in  FIG. 25 , a control box  540  comprises top housing  536 , bottom housing  544 , power inlet  538 , power cord (not shown), volume setting  542 , connector  546  to connect control box  540  to control keypad  512 , and connector  548  to connect control box  540  to water valve  570 , temperature sensor  572 , and flow sensor  574 . Volume setting  542  can be a rotation knob or any kind of button. Top housing  536  comprises at least two slots for sliding and alignment PCB during assembly. 
     As shown in  FIG. 26 , there is at least one relay  556  to control the jet or drain pump, a volume setting knob  542 , a timer controlled outlet  552  for drain pump, a continuous power outlet  554  for massage chair or any electronic devices uses, three on/off controlled outlets  568 ,  566 , and  564  for jet pump  10  or LED light  505 . The control box may include electronic components and software program (not shown). 
     Volume setting knob  542  is used to set the volume of water in the basin. Usually, the water level is set above the jet level. 
     Power outlets sockets ( 552 , 554 , 564 , 566 , 568 ) are soldered directly to Printed Circuit Board (PCB)  560 . No wire harnessing is needed to save labor and material cost. To assemble PCB package into the control box  540 , just insert PCB into the top housing  536 . Because the power outlet sockets are soldered on both sides of the PCB  560 , they provide strong support for the PCB without any screws are needed. 
     System software keeps monitoring the time to fill the basin and record the elapsed time in memory. In case water flow sensor  574  fails, or system  500  receives invalid data from the flow sensor, the system  500  will switch to time control as a backup. In this backup mode, the volume setting switches to time setting mode. The system  500  uses time to control the filling volume based on the recorded time elapsed from last successful operation. Thus, the user still can operate the apparatus without interruption. 
     As shown in  FIG. 27 , a module comprises a water valve  570  preferably solenoid valve, a water flow sensor  574 , a temperature sensor  572 , and several threads  576 . All these three components may be built in one package or they are connected via threads  576 .  [exiv {wirwsv; 8gsq tv iw e fsh}$  ,tvijivefp} gsttiv$fsh}-C$e${exiv$vsxsv$xyvfmri${liip-$9;;C$erh$e$lepp1ijjigx$ wirwsv$9;92$$[exiv$zapzi$9;4 {exivsjps{$wirwsvC$erh$xiq tivexyvi$wirwsv$evi$  tvijivfep} gexih$ejxiv${exi v$qm|iv$94&lt;$erh$fijsvi${exiv$wtve}iv$9&lt;42$$Hyi$s$e$  wtegi q  $yrhiv$kli$ yf$94:$erh$gyvziw$evsyrh$kli${exiv$q m|iv$94&lt; jsv$iew}$  mrwxep r klivi$ jpi|mfpi${exiv$lswi$,rsx$wls{r-$klex srrigxw$syxtyx$sj$  {exiv$qm|iv$94&lt;&amp;s&amp;rtyx&amp;sj&amp;{exiv&amp;zepzi&amp;9;4&amp;sv&amp; tyx&amp;sj&amp;{exiv&amp;jps{&amp;wirwsv&amp;9;82 
     As shown in  FIG. 28 , flow sensor  574  utilizes a magnetic element (not shown) that spins when water flow through the device. The rotating magnetic field is detected by a hall-effect sensor  575 . Output of the hall-effect sensor  575  is in form of square pulses signal with frequency is a function of the flow rate. The software and microprocessor count the number of the digital pulses generated by the  lepp jjigx&amp;wirwsv&amp;9;9&amp; and determine the volume of water that has been filled. 
       FIG. 29  shows an operation diagram. When a button on control keypad  512  is pressed/touched, an instruction is sent to control box  540  and then the control box  540  takes a control action. For example, when AUTO button  532  is pressed, the system  500  energizes the water valve  570  to let water comes into the basin, the flow rate is detected by water flow sensor  574 . When water volume reaches a threshold, the system  500  automatically shuts off the valve and turns on one or all controlled outlets. When WASH button  530  is pressed, the system  500  turns on the water valve. When JET button  524  is pressed, the system  500  turns on controlled outlet  568  (and/or  566 ), therefore jet pump  10  is turned on. When END/DRAIN button  526  is first pressed, the drain pump outlet  552  is turned on, therefore the drain pump will drain used water through the drain outlet  514 . Press END/DRAIN button  526  again will reset the system  500 . Now, the system  500  assumes the basin is empty. 
       FIG. 30  shows experimental data. The flow rate of this data shows an equation of y=f(x)=a*x+b. Substituting x with the frequency should give us the flow rate, and any volume V can be filled in (V/flow rate) seconds. The frequency of the pulses is approximately in linear relation with the flow rate. 
       FIG. 31  shows a system block diagram of an embodiment of controlling fluid or water level in a basin via the use of a smart automatic water fill system showing relationships or associations of various components shown on the diagram. 
     It is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above or as shown in the attached figures, but encompasses any and all embodiments within the spirit of the invention.