Planning pool equipment layout

Equipment models and dimensions

Each listed item uses a model based on its external size, connection points and service access needs. Models are created from manufacturer specifications and real-world measurements to ensure dimensional accuracy. The asset pipeline includes: • Geometry: Accurate external dimensions and mounting points • Materials: PBR textures (albedo, roughness, metallic, normal maps) for realistic appearance under varying lighting conditions • Metadata: Connection points, clearance zones, weight, electrical requirements, and plumbing specifications embedded as structured data

• Dimensionally accurate models from manufacturer CAD data
• Physically-based rendering materials for photorealistic output
• Embedded engineering metadata (clearances, connections, specifications)
• Level-of-detail (LOD) system for smooth real-time performance

Scene Composition Engine

The scene engine allows users to place equipment items on a virtual equipment pad, automatically handling: • Ground plane detection and alignment • Collision detection between placed items • Clearance zone visualisation (manufacturer-specified service access areas) • Plumbing path routing between components • Shadow casting and ambient occlusion for spatial depth perception You can rotate, move and swap equipment to see likely fit. Final installation requirements still need to be checked against the site and the manufacturer's instructions.

Engineering Constraint Validation

Beyond visual placement, the builder validates engineering constraints that affect real-world installation feasibility: Hydraulic compatibility: Verifies that connected equipment has matching pipe sizes and flow rate compatibility. A pump rated for 350 L/min paired with a filter rated for only 200 L/min triggers a mismatch warning. Electrical requirements: Sums total amperage draw and validates against typical residential circuit capacities. Flags configurations that would require electrical upgrades. Clearance compliance: Ensures manufacturer-specified minimum clearances for service access, ventilation (heat pumps), and safety (gas heaters) are maintained between placed items.

Cost Estimation Model

The builder generates real-time cost estimates as equipment is added to the scene: • Equipment cost: Current retail pricing for each selected item • Installation labour: Estimated hours based on equipment type and complexity • Plumbing materials: Pipe, fittings, and valves calculated from routing paths • Electrical work: Estimated based on circuit requirements and distance to switchboard • Concrete pad: Area calculation if existing pad is insufficient Any estimate should be treated as a guide only. Site access, pipework, electrical work and product availability can change the final quote.

Neptune Product Integration

The planner can include Neptune by Pentair equipment where product details are available. Specifications and compatibility still need to be checked against the selected model and the site. The system recommends complementary products based on the user's selections (e.g., suggesting a compatible salt cell when a Neptune chlorinator is placed) and flags incompatible combinations before they become costly installation errors.