Systems and methods for wirelessly communicating with automatic swimming pool cleaners

Abstract

Systems and methods for communicating wirelessly with automatic pool cleaners are addressed. Hydraulic cleaners, in particular, may be provided with on-board electricity-generating capabilities, processors, sensors, and transceivers for purposes of communication. Control of the cleaners may be accomplished using “smart” devices capable of downloading software via, for example, the Internet.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method of communicating with an automatic cleaner operating within a swimming pool, comprising:
 a. loading control software into a device configured to transmit and receive signals wirelessly;   b. causing the device to transmit wireless signals to a receiver on-board the operating automatic cleaner; and   c. allowing the device to receive wireless signals from a transmitter on-board the operating automatic cleaner.   
     
     
         2 . A method according to  claim 1  in which loading control software into the device comprises downloading control software from a remote source via the Internet. 
     
     
         3 . A method according to  claim 2  in which the automatic cleaner lacks any electrical cord extending outside the swimming pool. 
     
     
         4 . A method according to  claim 3  in which the automatic cleaner is a hydraulic cleaner comprising an on-board electricity generation mechanism. 
     
     
         5 . A method according to  claim 4  further comprising connecting a hose to the automatic cleaner so as to place it in fluid communication with a pump associated with the swimming pool. 
     
     
         6 . A method according to  claim 5  in which the device is hand-held. 
     
     
         7 . A method according to  claim 6  in which wireless signals transmitted by the device to the automatic cleaner change a characteristic of movement of the automatic cleaner within the swimming pool. 
     
     
         8 . A method according to  claim 7  in which wireless signals transmitted by the automatic cleaner to the device provide information about operation of the automatic cleaner or at least one characteristic of the water within the swimming pool. 
     
     
         9 . A method according to  claim 8  further comprising causing the device to transmit wireless signals to a location remote from the swimming pool. 
     
     
         10 . A method according to  claim 1  further comprising pairing the device and the automatic cleaner. 
     
     
         11 . A method according to  claim 1  in which wireless signals transmitted by the device to the automatic cleaner change a pre-programmed setting of the automatic cleaner.