Including Storage Area Patents (Class 4/500)
  • Patent number: 11364455
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a plate settler cover that prevents algae growth, prevents contamination from organic material, and provides structural support for a user who is standing or walking on the plate settler system. The plate settler covers can either float directly on standing water present in the system or may be structurally supported such that the plate cover is positioned above the surface of the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2022
    Assignee: MEURER RESEARCH, INC.
    Inventors: Joseph K. Brauch, Christopher D. Hanson
  • Patent number: 11053700
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a foldable cover (1) for a swimming pool (100). The cover comprises a foldable cover material (2), a number of supports (3) extending over the cover material for folding and unfolding the cover material and two support units (10) to be arranged on opposite sides of the cover (1) for rotatable attachment of outer ends of a number of the supports (3) around first rotation axes. The support units comprise attaching means for attaching the support units to the swimming pool. The attaching means comprise suspension arms, which suspension arms are provided with first suspension means for releasably suspending the support unit (10) on a rail (101) of the swimming pool (100).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2021
    Assignee: Dutch Toys Group Holding B.V.
    Inventors: Jeroen van den Bosch, Hendrik Marinus Jacobs, Stijn Gerard Driever
  • Patent number: 10738458
    Abstract: An extendable arm structure includes: an upper extendable arm and a lower extendable arm which extend parallel in a same direction; and a vertical coupling member that couples the upper and lower extendable arms. Each of the extendable arms includes a plurality of X-shaped cross units each formed by pivotally coupling two rigid members via a middle coupling shaft, and two end coupling shafts that pivotally couple ends of adjacent ones of the cross units. The extendable arm structure further includes: a planar member that closes, in a planar fashion, a space between the rigid member of the upper extendable arm and the rigid member of the lower extendable arm which extends parallel to the rigid member of the upper extendable arm in a same direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Assignee: FUJIMIY ASEISAKUSHO CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Norimichi Matsuoka
  • Patent number: 10124655
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a retractable roof vehicle system. The system comprises an open sided vehicle having an occupant space for one or more occupants of the vehicle; a cover configured to at least partially shield the occupant space from ambient environmental conditions, the cover positioned over the occupant space of the vehicle, the cover configured to be moved between an open position and a closed position over the occupant space; and a frame coupled with the vehicle configured to support the cover over the occupant space, the frame comprising a first side rail and a second side rail positioned along opposing sides of the vehicle over the occupant space, the first and second side rails both forming cover guides configured to guide movement of the cover between the open position and the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Assignee: TRACKER MARINE, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Travis Edward Langevin
  • Patent number: 10077568
    Abstract: A spa cover and receptacle in combination, the spa cover being a retractable, folding, insulating spa cover with interconnected, plural, elongated, generally rectangular, panel members, the panel members being connected to each other along their longitudinal edges or sides by hinge members that act as seals to close the entire gap between adjoining panel members, wherein the hinge members alternate between the upper and lower surfaces of adjacent panel members, such that the panel members are easily foldable into a vertical stack. The open-topped receptacle is provided with roller members to reduce friction when the panel members are delivered into the panel members in a vertical stack adjacent the spa, the receptacle being a free-standing member, a member mounted to the spa wall, or a member manufactured as an integral component of the spa housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Abram Huber
  • Patent number: 9932746
    Abstract: A utility storage mechanism for an inflatable swimming pool includes a substantially elastic outer wall having a top perimeter, an interior surface of the outer wall defining a fluid-containing interior, the utility storage mechanism comprising a strap adapted to encircle the outer wall proximate the top perimeter, wherein when a tensioning force is placed upon the strap, the strap substantially conforms to elastic movements of the outer wall. At least one bracket is coupled to the strap at a bracket-connection portion, the at least one bracket including a receiving member for receiving at least one pool utility fixture, wherein the bracket is coupled to the bracket-connection portion and is in a substantially abutting relationship with an exterior surface of the outer wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Inventor: Alan J. Fox
  • Patent number: 8661575
    Abstract: Disclosed is a pool opening to be exposed and/or concealed based on low profile covers constituted by roof components juxtaposed in the direction of the length of the swimming pool and each comprising a cover in a translucent material and a rigid frame formed of two arches placed in transverse planes and braced by longitudinal crosspieces with two end crosspieces delimiting two longitudinal parallel edges to the roof component and which rest on the longitudinal edges of the pool of said swimming pool defining a support surface, the system comprising a storage area located at an end of said pool said storage area being sufficient to accommodate the ground surface of a roof component allowing said roof components to be stored in a stacked way, all of said storage area being horizontally displaced from said pool opening, a wheel configured to mobilize said roof components allowing said roof components to be displaced horizontally along the pool towards and/or away from said storage area, a lifter in the storage
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: ABRISUD
    Inventor: Charles Chapus
  • Patent number: 8578524
    Abstract: Various aspects are directed to a spa cover lifter for lifting a spa cover comprising a first section and a second section pivotably coupled to the first section at a hinge interface. The lifter may comprise a first frame member, a second frame member, a drive system and a first cable. The first frame member may be coupled to the first section of the spa cover. The second frame member may be coupled to the second section of the spa cover, and the first and second frame members may be coupled to one another about the hinge interface. The first cable may extend from the drive mechanism to the first frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Nerok LLC
    Inventor: George F Koren
  • Patent number: 8516625
    Abstract: A spa cover includes first and second portions that are rotatable along a pivot axis. The first portion has a first length traverse to the pivot axis, and the second portion has a second length extending in the same direction as the first length. The first length is longer than the second length. When the cover is moved from a closed configuration into an open configuration, lower surfaces of the first and second portions, which face the spa tub water when in the closed configuration and can become unsightly, are moved into a position in which they face each other, whereas the upper surface of the second portion faces the users in the tub. A lifter is provided for moving the spa cover between the closed and an open configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Hottubproducts.com, LLC
    Inventors: W. John Gardenier, Andrew Tournas, Michael A. Fabiani
  • Patent number: 8516626
    Abstract: A spa cover includes first and second portions that are rotatable along a pivot axis. The first portion has a first length traverse to the pivot axis, and the second portion has a second length extending in the same direction as the first length. The first length is longer than the second length. When the cover is moved from a closed configuration into an open configuration, lower surfaces of the first and second portions, which face the spa tub water when in the closed configuration and can become unsightly, are moved into a position in which they face each other, whereas the upper surface of the second portion faces the users in the tub. A lifter is provided for moving the spa cover between the closed and an open configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Hottubproducts.com, LLC
    Inventors: W. John Gardenier, Andrew Tournas, Michael A. Fabiani
  • Patent number: 8479325
    Abstract: A spa cover includes first and second spa cover portions that are rotatable along a pivot axis. The first spa cover portion has a first length traverse to the pivot axis, and the second spa cover portion has a second length extending in the same direction as the first length. The first length is longer than the second length. When the cover is moved from a closed configuration into an open configuration, lower surfaces of the first and second spa cover portions, which face the water at the interior of the spa tub when in the closed configuration and can become unsightly, are moved into a position in which they face each other, whereas the upper surface of the second spa cover portion faces the users in the tub. A lifter is provided for moving the spa cover between the closed and an open configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Hottubproducts.com, LLC
    Inventors: W. John Gardenier, Andrew Tournas
  • Patent number: 8468617
    Abstract: A spa cover includes first and second portions that are rotatable along a pivot axis. The first portion has a first length traverse to the pivot axis, and the second portion has a second length extending in the same direction as the first length. The first length is longer than the second length. When the cover is moved from a closed configuration into an open configuration, lower surfaces of the first and second portions, which face the spa tub water when in the closed configuration and can become unsightly, are moved into a position in which they face each other, whereas the upper surface of the second portion faces the users in the tub. A lifter is provided for moving the spa cover between the closed and an open configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Hottubproducts.com, LLC
    Inventors: W. John Gardenier, Andrew Tournas
  • Patent number: 8448268
    Abstract: A pool cover hanging assembly includes a plurality of pool cover hanging devices. Each pool cover hanging device includes a rim engaging element including a pool wall abutting portion, a horizontally adjustable member coupled to the pool wall abutting portion at a first end, and a vertically adjustable connecting member coupled to the horizontally adjustable member. Each device also includes a vertically extending rod having a top end and a bottom end, the rod lying parallel to the exterior surface of the pool sidewall and being coupled at the top end to the vertical member of the rim engaging element. A rack arm is removably coupled to the vertically extending rod, wherein the removable rack arm is adapted to support a pool cover in a stored position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Bradshaw
  • Patent number: 8438671
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for sequentially supporting, opening and closing a pool-deck lid covering below-deck troughs housing coordinated with the operation of powered pool cover systems housed in the troughs. In certain embodiments the system comprises in combination: a front, longitudinal seating structure, an upwardly movably, cantilever bracket structure, hydraulic/pneumatic means, and a hydraulic/pneumatic actuation control means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Harry J. Last
  • Patent number: 8261378
    Abstract: A water pool with a cover that may be raised and lowered is presented herein. In one embodiment, the cover of the pool is a patio. In a further embodiment, the cover is raised and lowered by a lifting mechanism that is a hydraulic cylinder. A cover of a pool of the invention may be lowered to any point from the highest point to the lowest, providing a pool of variable depth at the discretion of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: HWPS US, LLC
    Inventor: Stefan Kanetis
  • Patent number: 8253609
    Abstract: The present invention provides coding/decoding a digital signal, in particular using a transform with overlap employing weighting windows. In the invention, two consecutive and equal-size blocks of samples of the signal may be weighted by respective different successive windows. These two windows may be chosen independently of each other according to a criterion specific to the characteristics of the signal (entropy, data rate/distortion, etc.) that are determined for each of the two blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: France Telecom
    Inventors: Pierrick Philippe, David Virette
  • Publication number: 20110167553
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for sequentially supporting, opening and closing a pool-deck lid covering below-deck troughs housing coordinated with the operation of powered pool cover systems housed in the troughs. In certain embodiments the system comprises in combination: a front, longitudinal seating structure, an upwardly movably, cantilever bracket structure, hydraulic/pneumatic means, and a hydraulic/pneumatic actuation control means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventor: Harry J. Last
  • Publication number: 20100154111
    Abstract: Various aspects are directed to a spa cover lifter for lifting a spa cover comprising a first section and a second section pivotably coupled to the first section at a hinge interface. The lifter may comprise a first frame member, a second frame member, a drive system and a first cable. The first frame member may be coupled to the first section of the spa cover. The second frame member may be coupled to the second section of the spa cover, and the first and second frame members may be coupled to one another about the hinge interface. The first cable may extend from the drive mechanism to the first frame member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicant: Nerok LLC
    Inventor: George Koren
  • Publication number: 20100058530
    Abstract: A device for forming a walkable floor, for instance above a swimming pool, has elements that may be assembled to be movable between a first position, in which the floor is situated above the swimming pool, and a second position in which the floor is situated adjacently of the swimming pool. The elements are mutually separated by separating surfaces extending substantially transversely of the direction movement, and wherein the elements can be mutually coupled by couplings adapted to transmit pulling and pushing forces in the direction of movement, wherein the couplings are adapted to prevent a relative movement in the direction transversely of the direction of movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Johannes Gommert van Der Klooster
  • Publication number: 20090049595
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a whirlpool cover, which comprises at least two cover elements and a transmission for pivoting said cover elements, said transmission comprising a pivot in the area of an upper edge of the whirlpool for pivoting the cover elements, said cover elements being adapted to be pivoted about said pivot to a position of rest onto an outer sidewall of the whirlpool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventor: Paul A. Muller
  • Patent number: 7461415
    Abstract: An apparatus for lifting a cover from a spa or other housing includes a frame member having one end that is pivotally attached to the exterior of the housing. Another end of the frame member is pivotally attached to the cover. A motor is likewise attached to the exterior of the housing and is pivotally coupled to the frame member. The motor causes the frame member to rotate thereby lifting the cover off of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Inventors: Mike Buzzetti, Zachery C. Mansfield, Michael J. Mowrey
  • Patent number: 7412733
    Abstract: A system is provided for automatically providing covering and uncovering of a recessed area including a hot tub or the like. The system includes a cover assembly including a stationary section, and a movable cover section movable with respect to the stationary section between (i) a retracted, stowed position, out of the plane of the stationary section and in vertical registration with the stationary section, wherein the hot tub is uncovered, and (ii) an operative, extended position, in the plane of the stationary section and in end-to-end registration with the stationary section, wherein the hot tub is covered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Dorsch, Inc.
    Inventor: Chris Dorsch
  • Patent number: 7073213
    Abstract: A hinge assembly for coupling a spa cover to a spa includes a mounting bracket disposed near a top of the spa, a support arm which is pivotably coupled to the mounting bracket about an axis of rotation, and a spring member disposed between the mounting bracket and the support arm. The spa cover is movable between a fully closed position and a fully open position. The support arm is attached on an outside surface of the spa cover at a vertical offset from the axis of rotation when the spa cover is in the fully closed position. The spring member, which may be a gas spring, forms an angle of less than approximately 45 degrees with respect to the top of the spa when the spa cover is in the fully open position. A metal plate may be affixed using a double sided tape on an outside surface of the spa cover, and then anchored to the spa cover. The metal plate may be used to attach the support arm to the spa cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Inventors: Carlos Duarte, Fred S. Romero
  • Patent number: 6910233
    Abstract: An elongated roller shutter profile of plastic or metal for swimming pool covers has a water-proof closure that closes an end of at learnt one longitudinal hollow chamber of the roller shutter profile. The closure includes a cap at least partly inserted from the end into the chamber, a piston plate spaced from the cap, and a sealing body between the cap and the piston plate. The sealing body made of an elastic and/or plastic material is brought into a sealing state by clamping between the piston plate and the cap so that the sealing body expands in width and rests in a circumferentially tight manner on the inner walls of the hollow chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Inventor: Hans Heinz Helge
  • Patent number: 6862756
    Abstract: A walk-on tray apparatus for concealing a pool cover operation system, is disclosed. A plurality of brackets each having a load-bearing upper portion may be attached to a sidewall of an elongate recess formed at one end of a pool, such that the load-bearing upper portions of the brackets extend in a substantially horizontal orientation. A plurality of platform sections each include a mortar veneer, a tray with an attachment plate removably disposed beneath an under side of the tray, and a nut-tightening arrangement, such that the load-bearing upper portions may be securely sandwiched between the under side of the tray and the attachment plate. The platform sections may reside in a side-by-side, sequential series. The mortar veneer may be formed directly on the tray, and the facade may be modified and customized to match the appearance of the perimeter sections of a pool deck. The veneer may be composed of mortar, resin and negligible amounts of fiberglass particles, forming an elastic composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Pool Cover Specialists National, Inc.
    Inventor: Wesley L. Mathis
  • Patent number: 6795984
    Abstract: A spa cover lifting device employs a pivot bar attached to a piston and transverse bar. The pivot bar and piston are anchored adjacent to a spa, and the transverse bar extends in a perpendicular direction across the spa cover. The pivot bar is anchored to the spa by a first mounting bracket, and the piston is anchored to the spa by a separate, second mounting bracket. As the pivot bar is raised, it is augmented by the piston to assist in lifting the spa cover, while the transverse bar transfers the lifting force to the spa cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Inventor: James P. Brady
  • Patent number: 6665890
    Abstract: A device for removing spa covers and putting them aside while the spa is in use, and returning them to cover the spa after use. This invention lifts the cover in the flat position, then the cover may be rotated clockwise or counter clockwise to uncover the spa for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventor: John Tedrick
  • Patent number: 6606752
    Abstract: An above-ground pool (1) having a protruding edge (3) and which can be covered with a cover (6): the folded cover, possibly enclosed in a bag (7) is anchored to a first location (P1); next, it is unfolded and drawn over the pool successively on either side thereof and it is successively anchored at two points (P2, P3) such that a line joining these two points is located at arm's length from a fourth point (P4) on the opposite side from the first point (P1); finally, it is drawn from the point (P4) where the lacing means (12) passing peripherally under the edge (3) are tied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: Sevylor International
    Inventor: Gérard Marbach
  • Publication number: 20030084617
    Abstract: A lid support bracket assembly is provided for supporting a pool cover box lid that includes a wall mount, and a bracket connected to the wall mount that can be angularly adjusted relative to the wall mount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Lanny R. Smith
  • Patent number: 6550077
    Abstract: A device for removing spa covers and putting them aside while the spa is in use, and returning them to cover the spa after use. This invention lifts the cover in the flat position, then the cover may be rotated clockwise or counter clockwise to uncover the spa for use. It is not necessary for the user to fold the cover at the half-way seam as required by many previous designs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: John Tedrick
  • Patent number: 6446276
    Abstract: A walk-on tray for concealing a pool cover operation system. The system includes a plurality of brackets each having a load-bearing upper portion. The brackets are attached to a sidewall of an elongate recess formed at one end of a pool, such that the load-bearing upper portions of the brackets extend in a substantially horizontal orientation. A plurality of platform sections each include a platform piece and an attachment plate moveably disposed below an under side of the platform piece, and a nut-tightening arrangement such that the load-bearing upper portions of the brackets may be securely sandwiched between the under side of the platform piece and the attachment plate, such that said platform sections reside in a side-by-side, sequential series. The platform sections include a mortar veneer insert, and mortar designs may be chosen and customized to modify an appearance of the mortar veneer to match an appearance of perimeter sections of a pool deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Pool Cover Specialists National, Inc.
    Inventor: Wesley L. Mathis
  • Patent number: 6430879
    Abstract: A retractable cover for protecting designated area and spaces. A stationary rigid portion receives telescopically extending portions movable over guiding assemblies to house vehicles and other objects and protect them. When the telescopic rigid portions are fully extended, they engage and interlock with seals resulting in a water tight structure. Also, the engagement is used to move and/or stop contiguous portions through the use of outwardly extending tabs at the rear and front ends of the telescopic portions. The guiding assemblies include channels through which wheels that are rotatably mounted to the lowermost ends of the portions. The stationary portion can be mounted to a cover member that is hingedly mounted to the area adjacent to a cooperative hole for selectively housing the retractable cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Inventors: Ramon A. Nuiry, Jorge Nuiry
  • Patent number: 6421962
    Abstract: A swimming pool cover is provided for a swimming pool which can be lowered to cover portion of the room floor and can be then raised to a position above the pool and adjacent the ceiling. The cover is suspended from the ceiling by various wire ropes and associated winches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Inventor: Bernard McNamara
  • Patent number: 6374433
    Abstract: A moveable hot tub cover structure removably covers a hot tub and includes at least one rail structure mounted generally adjacent the hot tub and extending outwards therefrom and a rigid hot tub cover structure including at least two upright walls having bases and upper sections and a roof extending between and connecting the at least two upright walls adjacent upper sections thereof such that the roof is spaced from the bases of the upright walls to permit the rigid hot tub cover structure to enclose the hot tub and be used with the rigid hot tub cover structure thereon. At least two rail-engaging wheels are mounted on the rigid hot tub cover structure. The wheels are operative to rollably engage the rail structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Inventor: Daniel Gray
  • Patent number: 6241207
    Abstract: A one-piece device for storing a pool cover which is removed from a position covering a swimming pool, having an upstanding perimeter sidewall, to a position adjacent the sidewall. The device includes a pair of U-shaped storage members having upper legs which are integrally coupled together and cantileverly supported integral lower legs which cooperate to define an inwardly receiving opening. Mount members, which are integral with the lower legs and extend toward the upper legs, are provided for mounting the U-shaped storage members in a position in which the upper legs and at least a portion of the opening is disposed at a level above the upper end of the pool sidewall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventor: Cynthia Powell
  • Patent number: 6158063
    Abstract: A spa cover lifting device for lifting a folding spa cover seated on a spa from a seated position to a vertical storage position, the spa cover lifting device having a frame apparatus with a horizontal cross member and a pair of side members with ends having pivotal mounts connectable with the spa, the horizontal cross member engaging the folding spa cover at the fold and transporting the cover when folded over the cross member from the seated position to the storage position when the frame apparatus is pivoted, the spa cover lifting device including a spring mechanism that assists raising the cover and cushions descent of the cover into its folded storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: E. Jess Tudor
  • Patent number: 6014778
    Abstract: A pool cover system for covering a pool. The pool cover system includes an elongate housing having a shaft extending along a longitudinal axis thereof. A pool cover is coupled to the shaft. The pool cover wraps around the shaft when the shaft rotates. A sprayer system is positioned in the housing and is designed to spray an outer surface of the cover as the cover is wrapped around the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Inventor: Albert D. Varnado
  • Patent number: 5974599
    Abstract: A spa cover lifting device for lifting a folding spa cover seated on a spa from a seated position to a vertical storage position, the spa cover lifting device having a frame apparatus with a horizontal cross member and a pair of side members with ends having pivot means connectable with the spa, the horizontal cross member engaging the folding spa cover at the fold and transporting the cover when folded over the cross member from the seated position to the storage position when the frame apparatus is pivoted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: E. Jess Tudor
  • Patent number: 5956783
    Abstract: A one-piece device for storing a pool cover which is removed from a position covering a swimming pool, having an upstanding perimeter sidewall, to a position adjacent the sidewall. The device includes a pair of U-shaped storage members having upper legs which are integrally coupled together and integral lower legs which cooperate to define an inwardly receiving opening. Mount members, which are integral with the lower legs, are provided for mounting the U-shaped storage members in a position in which the upper legs and at least a portion of the opening is disposed at a level above the upper end of the pool sidewall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: Cynthia Powell
  • Patent number: 5927042
    Abstract: A composite beam enclosure structure comprising one or more planar, rigid panel elements each having a platform with an upper surface, integral solid peripheral top and bottom and side edges, and one or more intersecting ribs standing on the bottom surface of the platform defining sectional configurations. Elongated, structural framing elements having integral opposing flanges spaced for receiving the side edges of one or more of the rigid panel elements are securely attached to the side edges of the rigid panel elements by attachment means such as screws, rivets, weld or other bond.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Inventor: Harry J. Last
  • Patent number: 5920922
    Abstract: A system for deploying and recovering a cover over a space like a swimming pool having a reel housing that has extensions and a base that may be used to securely mount the reel housing in a receptacle like a recess box. The extensions and the base may brace the reel housing which is made of inelastic or non-deformable material which may be thick metal. The ropes are shortened in length so that there is no excess when the cover is in its fully open position. The ropes are selected to be inelastically deformable. A motor drives the rope reels in the reel housing and the drum for the cover. The clutch that engages either the rope reels or the drum has a non-sacrificial pin to ensure that the clutch and the reels or the drum remain driven and engaged. The cover has outside edges that slide in tracks secured along the edge of the space to be covered. Stop blocks are secured to the outside edge so that the edge is in tension when the cover is positioned over the space to be covered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Cover-Pools, Inc.
    Inventors: Kelly Ragsdale, J. Richard Clark, Cory Brady
  • Patent number: 5913613
    Abstract: A system for deploying and recovering a cover over a space, like a swimming pool, has a reel housing that has extensions and a base that may be used to securely mount the reel housing in a receptacle, like a recess box. The extensions and the base may brace the reel housing which is made of inelastic or non deformable material which may be thick metal. The ropes are shortened in length so that there is no excess when the cover is in its fully open position. The ropes are selected to be inelastically deformable. A motor drives the rope reels in the reel housing and the drum for the cover. The clutch, that alternately engages the rope reels and the drum has a non sacrificial pin to ensure that the clutch and the reels or the drum remain driven and engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignee: Cover-Pools, Inc.
    Inventors: Kelly Ragsdale, Richard Clark, Cory Brady
  • Patent number: 5761750
    Abstract: A hot tub has a bathing enclosure surrounded by a peripheral tub wall. The tub wall has a peripheral upper rim at a level above a surrounding tub-supporting surface. The tub has a water recalculating system for maintaining water in the tub at a level below that of the rim. The tub has a covering apparatus which includes a vertically extending support structure exterior to the tub wall. A drive is mounted on the support structure exterior to the tub wall. A pair of laterally opposed elongate tracks is mounted on the support structure exterior to the tub wall and extends vertically below the level of the upper rim, with each track having an upper end terminating adjacent to the upper rim. A cover is comprised of a plurality of elongate, substantially rigid segments each having a longitudinal axis. Each segment is pivotally interconnected in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis and movably engageable with the drive and with the opposing tracks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Inventors: Charles Thomas Mazzola, Roger Alan Skaggs
  • Patent number: 5673442
    Abstract: A protection device for swimming pools and similar types of pools, which are provided with a surrounding pool edge, including a pool cover which can be pulled or folded out for covering the pool and be pulled, retracted or folded in for decovering the pool. The pool cover includes a first end portion which is connected to a first, elongated carrier, and a second, opposite end portion which is connected to a second, elongated carrier. The first carrier is fastened to a fundament, i.e., a base fixed at a position located outside the pool edge, whereas the second carrier is pivotally arranged at the first carrier so that the pool cover from a retracted position can be brought to cover the pool by pivoting out the second carrier in relation to the first carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Inventor: Stig Westlund
  • Patent number: 5644803
    Abstract: A spa cover support assembly is provided with a plurality of support arms having upper and lower ends with the lower ends pivotally attached to an external surface of the spa side wall for pivotal rotation of the upper ends of the support arms through an arc from a point above and adjacent to the side wall to a point away from the side wall at a point where the upper ends of the support arms are within the generally horizontal plane defined by the top surfaces of the side walls and at a distance away from the side wall wherein the center of gravity of the spa cover supported between the side wall and the upper ends of the support arms will fall between the side wall and the upper ends of the support arm assembly. A generally horizontal support bar is provided attached to the upper ends of the support arms for supporting the spa cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Inventor: Richard M. Wilson
  • Patent number: 5593122
    Abstract: A hanger/hook accessory supports articles on a vertically dependent member hung from an outer underside of a pool rim member. The hanger/hook accessory has a mounting bracket attached to an outer underside of a pool rim member; a removable fastener device connecting the mounting bracket to a member having opposite ends; and a hook connected to the member for supporting the articles. In a second embodiment, a mounting bracket is attached to outer underside of the pool rim member, the bracket having a vertically extending dependent portion; a hook with a mounting connector portion at one end; and a removable fastener device securing the mounting connector portion of the hook to the dependent portion of the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Inventors: Tim E. Robertson, Tad W. Robertson
  • Patent number: 5471685
    Abstract: A support for a cover of a hot tub spa has a pair of roller support arms each having a pivotal connection for securing it to the spa. The pivotal connections each comprise an attachment member for mounting on a vertical outer wall of the spa, with a hinge connecting the support arm to its attachment member for pivotation between operative and inoperative positions. In the operative positions, the arms extend horizontally outwardly from the top of the spa. The pivotal connection are separate from one another to allow the spacing between then to be varied as desired, and the rollers support arms each have rollers projecting upwardly from the roller support arms and rotatable about axes extending transversely of the roller support arms to facilitate displacement of the cover onto and from the roller support arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1995
    Assignee: Innovative Inventions Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Cross
  • Patent number: 5068928
    Abstract: Apparatus for storing a rolled pool cover along the exterior sidewall of the pool. The apparatus includes a plurality of perimetrically spaced apart, upwardly opening hooks which are cantileverly supported on the pool sidewall. The hooks are expansible and contractible to allow the hooks to "open" and "close" for receiving and dispensing the pool cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1991
    Inventor: Cynthia Powell
  • Patent number: 4972529
    Abstract: Heavy duty weather and actinic resistant protective blanket for pool covers which is attachable at the leading edge of a pool cover so that upon furling the cover, the blanket surrounds, both longitudinally and laterally, the pool cover. Fastening means to secure the blanket to itself in the furled condition is provided, preferably cooperatingly disposed strips of VELCRO.TM. hook and loop material. The leading edge of the pool cover is secured to the trailing edge of the blanket by stitching, grommets, barbed plastic rivets, straps, line or the like. The blanket is at least 1/8th the length of the cover and an embodiment for free form pool cover is shown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 27, 1990
    Inventor: Sidney K. Wolfson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4851275
    Abstract: This invention discloses a covering comprising a floating member shaped as a square loop, one pair of opposite portions of which are inflatable members, and a water-proof sheet having a nipple downwardly formed thereon, which is loosely stretched inside the square ring of the floating member and the peripheral edge of which is tightly connected with the same. The covering can float on the water and shield the water from scorching sunshine, killing frost, strong wind and acid rain. It is adaptable, therefore, to be used in nursery pool to protect the crops raised therein from damage by extraordinary weather.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1989
    Inventor: Johnson Yes