Abstract: An apparatus for automatically cleaning submerged surfaces, such as the bottom and side walls of a swimming pool. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus includes onboard sensors, and an onboard processor (preferably, a microprocessor) which controls operation of the apparatus in response to status information supplied from the sensors. Preferably, the apparatus has an onboard watertight battery and an adjustable inlet nozzle size, and includes left and right track treads which are controllable to cause the apparatus to turn or rotate (clockwise or counterclockwise), or translate in a forward or reverse direction, on a horizontal or vertically inclined submerged surface. A transmission assembly is provided for each track tread, including a cam wheel and a cam follower connected thereto within a sealed control assembly, and a shift link extending through a seal in the control assembly.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically cleaning submerged surfaces, such as the bottom and side walls of a swimming pool. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus includes onboard sensors, and an onboard processor (preferably, a microprocessor) which controls operation of the apparatus in response to status information supplied from the sensors. Preferably, the apparatus has an onboard watertight battery and an adjustable inlet nozzle size, and includes left and right track treads which are controllable to cause the apparatus to turn or rotate (clockwise or counterclockwise), or translate in a forward or reverse direction, on a horizontal or vertically inclined submerged surface. A transmission assembly is provided for each track tread, including a cam wheel and a cam follower connected thereto within a sealed control assembly, and a shift link extending through a seal in the control assembly.

Abstract: A suction cleaning device which is used for cleaning a swimming pool includes a removable door to improve access to the housing interior. The suction cleaning device is of the type having a primary and a secondary fluid flow path. The primary flow path has a primary turbine positioned in it for driving the device. The steering mechanism is of the type which has two secondary turbines which work together and comprise the secondary flow paths. The secondary fluid outlets, from the secondary flow paths are located near the primary turbine such that the secondary flow path joins the primary flow path. Access to the primary turbine is necessary to remove larger pieces of debris. A removable door having an opening aligned with the primary fluid inlet provides for access to the primary turbine. A screen integral with the removable door is preferably provided to prevent the entry of back wash debris into the lower secondary flow path. Screen guides provide for ease of replacement of the removable door.

Abstract: An in-line leaf trap (100) is disclosed having a housing defined by a main body (112) and a separable lid (114). A filter (116, 118) is provided in the leaf trap for gathering debris. A locking ring (124) is provided having an inner threaded region (126) engagable with threads provided on the main body of the housing to seal the housing. The locking ring (124) includes a plurality of spokes (128) extending between the ring and central cylindrical yoke (130). The spokes are provided to facilitate rotation of the locking ring with one hand. In the preferred embodiment, a handle (190) is provided on the main body.