Patents Examined by Nicole P. Smith
  • Patent number: 6868562
    Abstract: A skimmer protector having an integral blow tube is formed from two parts. First, a hollow, blow-molded body of resilient thermoplastic resin material having a cylindrical projection on one end with external screw threads for threading into the intake pipe of a swimming pool skimmer. Second, an open integral tube running from and through said screw threaded portion to an opening elsewhere on its blow-molded body. The cylindrical projection on the body of the device is intended and designed to be threaded into the intake pipe or other part of a pool skimmer. When connected thereto, the skimmer protector is positioned to absorb/buffer the forces exerted by the expansion of ice as it freezes within the walled regions of the skimmer. Welding the aforesaid integral tube to the body serves to create a hermetically sealed air space between the tube and the outer walls of the body. This hermetically sealed air space helps to resiliently stiffen the body of the skimmer protector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Inventors: George F. Arp, Andrew Arp