Abstract: Devices for cleaning vessels, especially swimming pools, are discussed. The devices may include a non-linear flow path in a gap surrounding an in-line valve. This non-linearity permits lengths of concentric pipes forming the gap to be decreased without sacrificing operational performance of the devices. Valves forming parts of the cleaning devices may be diaphragms but shaped, sized, reinforced, or configured differently than existing valves and may have collapsible segments whose interior shape resembles an ellipse in transverse cross-section. Co-molding of diaphragms and pipes may occur, and inner and outer cups may be used to fix relative positions of various components of the devices.

Abstract: Devices for cleaning vessels, especially swimming pools, are discussed. The devices may include repositionable in-line valves, with the valves typically moving laterally (from side to side) and changing the initial direction of the main fluid-flow path through the valves and corresponding cleaner bodies. Asymmetric feet may be utilized as part of the devices, whose bottom bearing surfaces may include elongated strips of material placed parallel to the normally-forward direction of travel of the devices. Discs of non-uniform flexibility also may be employed, and blocking tabs or gripping material may be used to inhibit undesired backward movement of a cleaner when its operation commences.

Abstract: Detailed are valves principally useful for automatic swimming pool cleaners. The valves may be made of flexible material and, typically, are generally tubular in shape. Mouths of the valves may be divided into two or more parts, with certain versions having three lobes. These configurations enable larger debris to pass through the valves.

Abstract: Mobile apparatus, typically in the form of automatic swimming pool cleaners, capable of indicating temperatures (or pressures) of the pool water in which they are deployed are discussed. The indication may, but need not necessarily, occur through change in color of one of more components of the cleaners. Some versions may have floats adapted to provide this color change. These or other versions may include floats that are not spherical in shape as well. Alternatively, temperature (or pressure) indication may be provided by other aspects of a water-circulation system.