ABOVE GROUND POOL

Abstract

An above ground pool is provided. The above ground pool includes a support frame and a pool liner. The pool liner is affixed to and supported by the support frame to form a body for holding water within the pool. The support frame includes a series of horizontal support members and vertical support members, each having an elliptical cross-section. The symmetric shape of the cross-section of the elliptical tubes reduces the difficulties inherent in machining tube bends, simplifies the manufacturing of the tubes, effectively improves the support frame's stability, and facilitates quality control. The horizontal support members and vertical support members are coupled together by one or more connectors to form an enclosed or ring structure.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to Chinese Application No. CN201520065126.7, entitled “ABOVE GROUND POOL,” filed on Jan. 29, 2015, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. This application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/671,845, filed on Mar. 27, 2015.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

1. Technical Field

The present invention relates to pools, and more specifically, to an above ground pool.

2. Background

An above ground pool is a facility installed on a piece of vacant land for recreational usage. For example, it can be installed on the yard of a house or a piece of vacant land elsewhere for adults and children to play together. Due to its ease of installation and usage, above ground pools have become very popular.

Currently, above ground pools can be mainly categorized into two types: frame pools and inflatable pools. There are a variety of structures and forms for frame pools. A round frame pool is the most typical above ground pool, which mainly includes a series of horizontal support members, vertical support members and a pool liner. In these types of above ground pools, the horizontal support members are connected in sequence via connecting members to form a circular structure. The vertical support members support the circular structure so as to form a support frame, and then the pool liner is affixed to support frame to form a pool body. The pool body forms an above ground pool or basin for holding water. When a frame pool of this structure is fully filled with water, the water can exert a significant amount of pressure on the pool body, thus the support frame must be sturdy enough to withstand extremely high pressure forces.

However, most horizontal support members, vertical support members, and connecting members used in the support frames of traditional round frame pools comprise tubes having a D-shaped cross-section. In practical applications, these “D-shaped tubes” have a number of disadvantages. For example, such tubes are difficult to manufacture and control their manufacturing process due to the asymmetric shape of the tubes' cross-section. These D-shaped tubes typically have a structure without a narrowed mouth at a tube end, so the clearance fit between the tube end and a corresponding connector is relatively large, resulting in poor overall stability. Since the shape of the D-shaped tube is asymmetric, it is more difficult to cut to form arcuate corners. Also, the manufacturing cost is fairly costly. All of these factors result in great difficulty in the machining of connector elbows.

In addition, the connection between corresponding D-shaped tubes is achieved by engagement at single point, such that the connection has a relatively poor firmness and strength. Therefore, support frames formed by the use of D-shaped tubes mentioned above have a lower bearing capacity, thus compromising the safety and performance of the above ground pool.

Overall, the bearing performance of the support frame of an above ground pool may have a direct impact on the stability of the entire above ground pool. Due to the factors discussed above, conventional above ground pools are prone to collapse and cause injury accidents. Thus, a need therefore exists for an above ground pool having a sturdy support frame that is easy to assemble.

SUMMARY

An above ground pool according to the present invention is provided in order to solve the technical problems present in support frames of conventional above ground pools, namely, the poor bearing capacity of existing above ground pool support frames.

One example of an above ground pool of the present invention includes a support frame and a pool liner. The support frame includes a series of horizontal support members and vertical support members. The horizontal support members and the vertical support members each include an elongated tube with an elliptical cross-section.

The pool liner is affixed to the support frame. The pool liner is supported by the support frame to form a body for holding water within the pool.

In some implementations, the support frame further includes a plurality of T-shaped connectors for coupling the horizontal support members and the vertical support members together. Each T-shaped connector includes a horizontal tubular member and a vertical tubular member transverse to the horizontal tubular member. The horizontal tubular member and the vertical tubular member each has an elliptical cross-section.

In some implementations, the T-shaped connectors couple two corresponding horizontal support members together in sequence to form a substantially circular ring-shaped structure. In some implementations, the ring-shaped structure may be oval in shape. In some implementations, the vertical tubular member is coupled to a corresponding vertical support member.

In some implementations, a first end of the horizontal tubular member is detachably connected to an end of a first corresponding horizontal support member and a second end of the horizontal tubular member is detachably connected to an end of a second corresponding horizontal support member. The first corresponding horizontal support member and the second corresponding horizontal support member may be connected to the first end of the horizontal tubular member and the second end of the horizontal tubular member by a retainer located proximal the respective points of attachment.

In some implementations, the retainer is a retaining pin configured to pass through a first set of positioning holes and a corresponding second set of positioning holes. The first set of positioning holes is formed at the first end of the horizontal tubular member and the second end of the horizontal tubular member. The corresponding second set of positioning holes is formed at ends of the corresponding horizontal support members. The retaining pin is configured to lock the horizontal tubular member and the corresponding horizontal support members together.

In some implementations, the vertical tubular member is detachably connected to a corresponding vertical support member by a spring-loaded latch coupled to an end of the vertical support member. The latch is configured to engage an aperture formed at an open end of the vertical tubular member.

In some implementations, the spring-loaded latch includes a pin boss that houses a spring element and detent pin. The pin boss is mounted inside one end of the vertical support member and configured such that the detent pin is outwardly biased by the spring element to engage the aperture. The detent pin is configured to lock the vertical tubular member and the vertical support member together.

In some implementations, the above ground pool further includes a plurality of tensioning devices coupled to an outer surface of the body of the pool and a tensioning belt. Each tensioning device is coupled to the outer surface of the body in-between two neighboring vertical support members. The tensioning belt may be alternately weaved about the outer surface of the body through the tensioning devices and over the vertical support members to retain the vertical support members close to the body. In some implementations, the tensioning belt is arranged about the body of the pool at a height equal to approximately one-third of the height of the body of the pool. In some implementations, the above ground pool further includes a plurality of support bases coupled to a bottom end of the vertical support members.

A second example of an above ground pool of the present invention is further provided. The above ground pool includes a support frame and a pool liner. According to this example, the support frame includes a series of horizontal support members, connectors, and U-shaped support members. The horizontal support members and connectors may each have a circular cross-section. The U-shaped support members may have an elliptical cross-section.

The pool liner is affixed to the support frame. The pool liner is supported by the support frame to form a body for holding water within the pool.

In some implementations, the horizontal support members are coupled together in series by the connectors to form a ring-shaped structure. In some implementations, the ring-shaped structure forms a rectangle, square, or other polygon shape. In some implementations, the connectors are each L-shaped.

In some implementations, the above ground pool further includes couplings coupled to free ends of the U-shaped support members. The couplings detachably connect the U-shaped support members to the ring-shaped structure to support the ring-shaped structure in an oblique fashion.

In some implementations, each free end of the U-shaped support member includes a reduced diameter portion. The reduced diameter portion includes a first set of latching holes spaced apart from a second set of latching holes.

In some implementations, the coupling further includes a flexible V-shaped pin and a hollow casing. The flexible V-shaped pin includes a first pair of studs spaced apart from a second pair of studs. The hollow casing includes a pair of orifices. The flexible pinis disposed within the reduced diameter portion of U-shaped support members such that the first pair of studs extends through the second set of latching holes to engage the pair of orifices, and the second pair of studs extends through the first set of latching holes.

In some implementations, the casing is a tube having an oval cross-section corresponding with the cross-section of the U-shaped support members.

In some implementations, the above ground pool further includes a plurality of support belts coupled to and arranged about a bottom portion of the body of the pool. Each support belt is coupled between the bottom portion of the body of the pool and a horizontal portion of a corresponding U-shaped support member.

In some implementations, each support belt includes a sleeve for passing the horizontal portion of the U-shaped support member therethrough.

A first example of a support frame for an above ground pool of the present invention is provided. The support frame includes a plurality of horizontal support members and a plurality of vertical support members, where a pool liner may be affixed to and supported by the support frame to form a body for holding water within the pool.

The horizontal support members may include an elongated tube with an elliptical cross-section. The vertical support members may be coupled to the horizontal support members. The vertical support members may include an elongated tube with an elliptical cross-section.

In some implementations, the support frame further includes a plurality of T-shaped connectors for coupling the horizontal support members and the vertical support members together. The T-shaped connector includes a horizontal tubular member and a vertical tubular member transverse to the horizontal tubular member. The horizontal tubular member and the vertical tubular member each has an elliptical cross-section.

In some implementations, the T-shaped connectors couple two corresponding horizontal support members together in sequence to form a substantially circular ring-shaped structure. In some implementations, the ring-shaped structure may be oval in shape.

In some implementations, the vertical tubular member is coupled to a corresponding vertical support member. In some implementations, a first end of the horizontal tubular member is detachably connected to an end of a first corresponding horizontal support member and a second end of the horizontal tubular member is detachably connected to an end of a second corresponding horizontal support member. The first corresponding horizontal support member and the second corresponding horizontal support member are connected to the first end of the horizontal tubular member and the second end of the horizontal tubular member by a retainer located proximal the respective points of attachment.

In some implementations, the retainer is a retaining pin configured to pass through a first set of positioning holes formed at the first end of the horizontal tubular member and the second end of the horizontal tubular member, and a corresponding second set of positioning holes formed at ends of the corresponding horizontal support members. The retaining pin is configured to lock the horizontal tubular member and the corresponding horizontal support members together.

In some implementations, the vertical tubular member is detachably connected to a corresponding vertical support member by a spring-loaded latch coupled to an end of the vertical support member. The latch is configured to engage an aperture formed at an open end of the vertical tubular member.

In some implementations, the spring-loaded latch includes a pin boss that houses a spring element and detent pin. The pin boss is mounted inside one end of the vertical support member and configured such that the detent pin is outwardly biased by the spring element to engage the aperture. The detent pin is configured to lock the vertical tubular member and the vertical support member together.

In some implementations, the support frame further includes a plurality of tensioning devices coupled to an outer surface of the body of the pool and a tensioning belt. Each tensioning device may be coupled to the outer surface of the body in-between two neighboring vertical support members The tensioning belt may be alternately weaved about the outer surface of the body through the tensioning devices and over the vertical support members to retain the vertical support members close to the body.

In some implementations, the tensioning belt is arranged about the body of the pool at a height equal to approximately one-third of the height of the body of the pool. In some implementations, the above ground pool further includes a plurality of support bases coupled to a bottom end of the vertical support members.

A second example of a support frame for an above ground pool of the present invention is further provided. The support frame includes a plurality of horizontal support members, a plurality of connectors, and a plurality of U-shaped support members, where a pool liner may be affixed to and supported by the support frame to form a body for holding water within the pool.

The plurality horizontal support members each include an elongated tube with a circular cross-section. Each of the connectors that couple corresponding horizontal support members together comprise an L-shapes tube with a circular cross-section.

Each of U-shaped support members comprise a U-shaped tube with an elliptical cross-section. In some implementations, the horizontal support members are coupled together in series by the connectors to form a ring-shaped structure. In some implementations, the ring-shaped structure forms a rectangle, square or other polygon shape.

In some implementations, the above ground pool further includes couplings coupled to free ends of the U-shaped support members. The couplings detachably connect the U-shaped support members to the ring-shaped structure to support the ring structure in an oblique fashion. In some implementations, each free end of the U-shaped support member has a reduced diameter portion, the reduced diameter portion having a first set of latching holes spaced apart from a second set of latching holes.

In some implementations, the coupling further includes a flexible V-shaped pin including a first pair of studs spaced apart from a second pair of studs and a hollow casing. The hollow casing includes a pair of orifices. The flexible pin is disposed within the reduced diameter portion of U-shaped support members such that the first pair of studs extends through the second set of latching holes to engage the pair of orifices, and the second pair of studs extends through the first set of latching holes. In some implementations, the casing includes a tube with an oval cross-section corresponding with the cross-section of the U-shaped support members.

In some implementations, the support frame further includes a plurality of support belts coupled to and arranged about a bottom portion of the body of the pool. Each support belt may be coupled between the bottom portion of the body of the pool and a horizontal portion of a corresponding U-shaped support member. In some implementations, each support belt includes a sleeve for passing the horizontal portion of the U-shaped support member therethrough.

Advantageously, support frames of above ground pools according to the present invention are at least partially composed of tubes with an elliptical cross-section. The symmetric shape of the cross-section reduces the difficulty in machining a tube bend, lowers the complexity in manufacturing the tubes, effectively improves the stability, and facilitates quality control. Meanwhile, a slight clearance fit between the tube end of the elliptical tubes and the connector may be achieved. This enables the support frame to withstand large mechanical stresses and provide stability and enhanced structural support. In addition, a bolt connection is utilized between the tube end of the elliptical tubes and the connector. Such bolt connection is secure and provides greater strength. Therefore, support frames formed by elliptical tubes provide better bearing performance, thereby improving the stability of the entire above ground pool and providing an excellent safety performance.

Other devices, apparatus, systems, methods, features and advantages of the disclosure will be or will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description, and be protected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above-mentioned and other features, properties and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompany drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating one example of an implementation of a support frame of an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the support frame illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a top view of the support frame illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a partial exploded view of the support frame of FIG. 1, illustrating how corresponding horizontal support members are coupled with a vertical support member by a T-shaped connector.

FIG. 5 is another partial exploded view of the support frame of FIG. 1, illustrating how corresponding horizontal support members are coupled with a vertical support member by a T-shaped connector.

FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the support frame of FIG. 1, illustrating how a horizontal support member is coupled to the T-shaped connector.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a spring-loaded latch for connecting a vertical support member and a T-shaped connector in the support frame of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the spring-loaded latch illustrated in in FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a side view of the spring-loaded latch illustrated in FIG. 7.

FIG. 10 is a front view of the spring-loaded latch illustrated in FIG. 7.

FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the spring-loaded latch illustrated in FIG. 7.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating an above ground pool incorporating the support frame illustrated in FIG. 1.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating a second example of an implementation of a support frame of an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a top view of the support frame illustrated in FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a front view of the support frame illustrated in FIG. 13.

FIG. 16 is a side view of the support frame illustrated in FIG. 13.

FIG. 17 is a partial exploded view of the support frame of FIG. 13, illustrating how corresponding horizontal support members are coupled with the U-shaped support members.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a horizontal support member of the support frame illustrated in FIG. 13.

FIG. 19 is a side view of the horizontal support member illustrated in FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a U-shaped support member of the support frame illustrated in FIG. 13.

FIG. 21 is a front view of the U-Shaped support member illustrated in FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 is a partial cross-sectional view of the support frame of FIG. 13 illustrating how the U-shaped support members are coupled to the horizontal support members.

FIG. 23 is a partial cross-sectional view of the support frame of FIG. 13 illustrating how the neighboring horizontal support members are coupled together.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a positioning member of the support frame illustrated in FIG. 13.

FIG. 25 is a front view of the positioning member illustrated in FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 is a top view of the positioning member illustrated in FIG. 24.

FIG. 27 is a side view of the positioning member illustrated in FIG. 24.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view illustrating an above ground pool incorporating the support frame illustrated in FIG. 13.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view illustrating a third example of an implementation of a support frame of an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention.

FIG. 30 is an enlarged view of the portion A in FIG. 29.

FIG. 31 is a front view of the support frame illustrated in FIG. 29.

FIG. 32 is a side view of the support frame illustrated in FIG. 29.

FIG. 33 is a top view of the support frame illustrated in FIG. 29.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view illustrating an above ground pool incorporating the support frame illustrated in FIG. 29.

FIG. 35 is a top view illustrating a fourth example of an implementation of a support frame of an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention will be further described below in conjunction with particular example implementations and the accompanying drawings. Further details are provided in the following description in order for the present invention to be fully understood. However, the present invention can be implemented in various ways other than those described herein. A person skilled in the art can make similar analogies and modifications according to practical applications without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and therefore the contents of the particular examples herein should not be construed as limiting to the scope of the present invention.

FIGS. 1-30 illustrate various implementations of a support frame for an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention. Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating one example of an implementation of a support frame 10 of an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a front view of the support frame 10. FIG. 3 is a top view of the support frame 10.

As shown, the support frame 10 includes a plurality of horizontal support members 11 and a plurality of vertical support members 12. The horizontal support members 11 and the vertical support members 12 each include an elongated tubular member with an elliptical cross-section. The vertical support members 12 are coupled to the horizontal support members 11. The support frame 10 may further include a plurality of T-shaped connectors 13 that are mainly used to couple the horizontal support members 11 and the vertical support members 12 together.

Referring now to FIGS. 4-6, FIG. 4 is a partial exploded view of the support frame 10 illustrating how corresponding horizontal support members 11 are coupled with a vertical support member 12 by the T-shaped connector 13. FIG. 5 is another partial exploded view of the support frame 10 illustrating how corresponding horizontal support members 11 are coupled with a vertical support member 12 by a T-shaped connector 13. FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the support frame 10 illustrating how a horizontal support member 11 is coupled to the T-shaped connector 13.

As shown, the T-shaped connector 13 includes a horizontal tubular member 130 and a vertical tubular member 131. The vertical tubular member 131 is transversely arranged on the horizontal tubular member 130. In particular, the vertical tubular member 131 is transversely perpendicular to the horizontal tubular member 130. The horizontal tubular member 130 and the vertical tubular member 131 each have an elliptical cross-section.

The T-shaped connectors 13 couple two neighboring horizontal support members 11 together in sequence by means of the horizontal tubular member 130. In this way, the horizontal support members 11 may be coupled together to form a substantially circular ring structure (as best shown in FIG. 3).

Turning back to FIGS. 4 and 5, a first end 132 of the horizontal tubular member 130 of each T-shaped connector 13 may be detachably coupled to an end 112 of a first corresponding horizontal support member 110. A second end 133 of the horizontal tubular member 130 may, likewise, be detachably coupled to an end 113 of a second corresponding horizontal support member 111. The first corresponding horizontal support member 110 and the second corresponding horizontal support member 111 may respectively be coupled to the first end 132 and the second end 133 of the horizontal tubular member 130 by a retainer, as discussed in further detail below. In order to ensure the stability and firmness of the coupling, the retainer should be located proximal the respective points of attachment between the horizontal support members 110, 111 and the horizontal tube member 130.

In some implementations, the retainer may include a retaining pin 14. In other implementations, the retainer may include claps, threaded fasteners, or other suitable attachment means. As shown in FIG. 4-6, a first set of positioning holes 134 is provided on the first end 132 and the second end 133 of the horizontal tubular member 130. A corresponding second set of positioning holes 114 is provided on the end 112 of the first horizontal support member 110 and the end 113 of the second horizontal support member 111. When the first end 132 and the second end 133 of the horizontal tubular member 130 of the T-shaped connector 13 are respectively butt-jointed to the end 112 of the first horizontal support member 110 and the end 113 of the second horizontal support member 111, the first set of positioning holes 134 is correspondingly aligned with the second set of positioning holes 114. In this alignment, the retaining pin 14 may be passed through the first set of positioning holes 134 and the corresponding second set of positioning holes 114 (as shown in FIG. 6), so that the horizontal tubular member 130 of the T-shaped connector 13 and the corresponding horizontal support members (i.e., the first horizontal support member 110 and the second horizontal support member 111) are, for example, snap-locked together. In some implementations, a bearing pad 140 may be provided between the retaining pin 14 and the horizontal tubular member 130 to reduce the wear between the retaining pin 14 and the horizontal tubular member 130 and increase robustness therebetween.

Similarly, the vertical tubular member 131 of the T-shaped connector 13 may be coupled to a corresponding vertical support member 12. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the vertical tubular member 131 of each T-shaped connector 13 may be detachably connected to the corresponding vertical support member 12 by a spring-loaded latch 15. During connection, the spring-loaded latch 15 is coupled to an end 121 of the vertical support member 12. An aperture 122 is provided at an open end of the end 121. The spring-loaded latch 15 is disposed in the end 121 of the vertical tubular member 131 and engages and is locked with the aperture 122.

Referring to FIGS. 7-11, FIG. 7 is a perspective view of one example of a spring-loaded latch 15 for coupling the vertical support member 12 with a T-shaped connector 13. FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the spring-loaded latch 15. FIG. 9 is a side view of the spring-loaded latch 15. FIG. 10 is a front view of the spring-loaded latch 15. FIG. 11 is exploded perspective view of the spring-loaded latch 15.

As shown, the spring-loaded latch 15 includes a pin boss 150. The pin boss 150 houses a spring element 151 and a detent pin 152. The pin boss 150 includes a hollow circular annular outer wall 153 with an outwardly protruding, semi-circular accommodating cavity 154 coupled to an open end of the annular outer wall 153. The spring element 151 may be mounted within the accommodating cavity 154 such that one end of the detent pin 152 passes through the interior of the accommodating cavity 154 and bears against the spring element 151, while the other end is outwardly biased, such that a portion of the detent pin may extend out from the accommodating cavity 154 (as best shown in FIGS. 7 and 8).

The annular outer wall 153 may be shaped to match or otherwise complement the cross-section of the end 121 of the vertical support member 12 (as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5). When the spring-loaded latch 15 is fitted into the end 121 of the vertical support member 12, the annular outer wall 153 of the pin boss 150 is embedded in the interior of the end 121 of the vertical support member 12 such that the detent pin 152 snap-fitted into the aperture 122 on the end 121 of the vertical support member 12 under the elastic force of the spring element 151.

Turning back to FIG. 5, an aperture 135 may be formed at an open end of the vertical tubular member 131 of the T-shaped connector 13. The vertical tubular member 131 is butt-jointed to the end 121 of the vertical support member 12. The aperture 135 on the vertical tubular member 131 may be aligned with the aperture 122 on the vertical support member 12, so that the detent pin 152 passes through the apertures 122 and 135 to, for example, snap-lock the T-shaped connector 13 to the vertical support member 12.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of one example of an above ground pool 100 incorporating the support frame 10. As shown in FIG. 12, the above ground pool 100 includes the support frame 10 and a pool liner 16. The pool liner 16 may be affixed to and supported by the support frame 10 to form a pool body for holding water. In some implementations, the upper part of the pool liner 16 may be sheathed on the horizontal support members 11, and the periphery of the pool liner 16 may lie against the vertical support members 12.

In order to further secure the poor liner 16 to the above ground pool 100, the above ground pool 100 may further include a plurality of tensioning devices 17 and a tensioning belt 18. The tensioning devices 17 include one or more straps or loops coupled to an outer surface of the pool body. Each tensioning device 17 may be coupled to the outer surface of the body in-between two neighboring vertical support members 12. The tensioning belt 18 may be alternately weaved about the outer surface of the body through the tensioning devices 17 and over the vertical support members 12 to retain the vertical support members 12 close to the pool body, thereby increasing the tensioning force of the pool body. In some implementations, the tensioning belt 18 may be arranged about the pool body at a height equal to approximately one-third of the height of the pool body. The tensioning belt 18 serves to reinforce the lower structure of the pool body to impart a greater bearing capacity. In some implementations, the above ground pool 100 may further include a plurality of support bases 120 coupled to a bottom end of the vertical support members 12 for improving the overall robustness of the above ground pool 100.

Referring to FIGS. 13-16, FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a second example of a support frame 20 of an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a top view of the support frame 20. FIG. 15 is a front view of the support frame 20. FIG. 16 is a side view of the support frame 20.

As shown, the support frame 20 includes a plurality of horizontal support members 21, a plurality of connectors 22, and a plurality of U-shaped support members 23. Each horizontal support member 21 has a circular cross-section. The connectors 22 are used to couple corresponding horizontal support members 21 together, and each connector 22 has a circular cross-section. Free ends of the U-shaped support members 23 are connected to the horizontal support members 21 and each U-shaped support member 23 has an elliptical cross-section. The horizontal support members 21 are coupled together in series by the plurality of connectors 22 to form a ring structure. In the present implementation, the connectors 22 may be L-shaped such that the ring structure forms a rectangle. In other implementations, the connectors 22 may have other shapes, such as V-shape, such that the ring structure may for a polygon or other geometric shape.

FIG. 17 is a partial exploded view of the support frame 20, illustrating how corresponding horizontal support members 21 are coupled with the U-shaped support members 23 and L-shaped connectors 22. As shown, when the ring structure forms a rectangle or polygon, the sides of the rectangle or polygon are formed by the horizontal support members 21. Every two or corresponding horizontal support members 21 are connected in series successively. The corner parts of the sides of the rectangle are formed by the L-shaped connectors 22 connected between corresponding horizontal support members 21.

Each horizontal support member 21 is further connected to a corresponding U-shaped support member 23. The horizontal support members 21 may be affixed to each other via a positioning member 25. The horizontal support member 21 and the connector 22 may likewise be affixed to each other via a positioning member 25. However, a coupling 24 may be required to fixedly connect the U-shaped support member 23 and the horizontal support member 21 to each other.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the horizontal support member 21, and FIG. 19 is a front view of the horizontal support member 21. As shown in these figures, one end 211 of the horizontal support member 21 includes a reduced diametrical portion and a first aperture 212 in the reduced portion. A second aperture 215 is formed at an opposite end 213 of the horizontal support member 21. One or more connection opening 214 are formed along a rod surface of the horizontal support member 21 for receiving free ends of a corresponding U-shaped support member 23.

Referring now to FIGS. 20-22, FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the U-shaped support member 23. FIG. 21 is a front view of the U-shaped support member 23. As shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, the free end of the U-shaped support members 23 include a reduced diameter portion 231 having a first set of latching holes 232 spaced apart from a second set of latching holes 233.

FIG. 22 is a partial cross-sectional view of the support frame 20, illustrating how the free ends of U-shaped support members 23 are connected to the horizontal support members 21. As shown in FIG. 22, in conjunction with FIG. 17, the coupling 24 is coupled in the reduced diameter portion 231 of the free ends of the U-shaped support members 23, such that the U-shaped support member 23 is detachably connected to the ring structure via the coupling 24. The U-shaped support members 23 support the ring structure in an oblique fashion; for example, the U-shaped support member 23 may be inclined outwardly along the ring structure by 30° or any other suitable angle.

The coupling 24 may include a flexible V-shaped pin 241 and a hollow casing 242. The flexible V-shaped pin 241 may include a first pair of studs 243 spaced apart from a second pair of studs 244.

The hollow casing 242 includes a pair of orifices 245 and the hollow casing 242 is sheathed outside the reduced diameter portion 231 of the U-shaped support member 23 such that the first set of latching holes 232 and the second set of latching holes 233 are respectively aligned with the orifices 245. The flexible V-shaped pin 241 is positioned within the reduced diameter portion 231 of the U-shaped support member 23 such that the first pair of studs 243 extends through the second set of latching holes 233 to engage the corresponding orifices 245. Likewise, the second pair of studs 244 extends through the first set of latching holes 232. In this way, the U-shaped support member 23 and the horizontal support member 21 may be, for example, snap-locked together via the couplings 24.

The hollow casing 242 includes a tube having an oval cross-section corresponding with the cross-section of the U-shaped support members 23. As such, the connection between the U-shaped support members 23 and the horizontal support members 21 may be more robust.

FIG. 23 is a partial cross-sectional view of the support frame 20, illustrating how neighboring horizontal support members 21 are coupled together a positioning member 25. As shown in FIG. 23, in conjunction with FIGS. 17-19, the sides of the rectangle or polygon ring structure are formed by the horizontal support members 21. Every two or corresponding horizontal support members 21 are connected in series successively via the positioning members 25. The positioning member 25 is sheathed on the reduced diameter portion of end 211 of one of the horizontal support members 21, and the other end 213 of the other neighboring horizontal support member 21 is sheathed outside the positioning member 25, such that the two neighboring horizontal support members 21 are affixed to each other.

Turing now to the positioning member 25, FIG. 24 is a bottom perspective view of the positioning member 25. FIG. 25 is a front view of the positioning member 25. FIG. 26 is a top view of the positioning member 25. FIG. 27 is a side view of the positioning member 25.

As shown in FIGS. 24-27, in conjunction with FIG. 17-19, the positioning member 25 includes a hollow sheathing member 251 comprising a tube with an oval cross-section corresponding to the cross-section of the reduced diameter portion of the horizontal support member 21. One end of the positioning member 25 is provided with an annular stud 252. The cross-section of the annular stud 252 corresponds to the cross-section of the horizontal support members 21. The opposite end of the positioning member 25 is provided with a locking buckle 253. When two neighboring horizontal support members 21 are connected, one end of the positioning member 25 is sheathed on the reduced diameter portion of one end 211 of one of the horizontal support members 21, with the other end 213 of the other neighboring horizontal support member 21 is sheathed outside the positioning member 25. In this way, the locking buckle 253 passes through the second aperture 215 of the other end 213 of the horizontal support member 21 so that the locking of two neighboring horizontal support members 21 can be achieved.

Likewise, the L-shaped connector 22 and corresponding horizontal support members 21 may also be fixedly locked with each other via the positioning member 25. For example, one end of the positioning member 25 may be sheathed at one end of the L-shaped connector 22, while the opposite end 213 of the horizontal support member 21 may be sheathed on the positioning member 25, such that the locking buckle 253 passes through the second aperture 215 of the opposite end 213 of the horizontal support member 21 and the locking of the horizontal support member 21 and the L-shaped connector 22 can be achieved (not shown in the Figures).

FIG. 28 is a perspective view illustrating one example of an above ground pool 200 incorporating the support frame 20. As shown, the above ground pool 200 includes the support frame 20 (as shown in FIG. 13) and a pool liner 26. The pool liner 26 may be affixed to and supported by the support frame 20 to form a pool body for holding water. In some implementations, the upper part of the pool liner 26 may be sheathed on the horizontal support members 21 such that the periphery of the pool liner 26 lies against the U-shaped support members 23.

In order to further secure the poor liner 26, the above ground pool 200 may further include a plurality of support belts 27. The support belts 27 may be coupled to and arranged about a bottom portion of the body of the pool. Each support belt 27 may be coupled between the bottom portion of the body of the pool and a horizontal portion of a corresponding U-shaped support member 23. In particular, in order to increase the strength of support of the support belts 27, each support belt 27 may include a sleeve 271 where the horizontal portion of the U-shaped support member 23 passes through the sleeve 271 of the support belt 27 to tension the support belt 27.

Turning to FIGS. 29-34, FIG. 29 is a perspective view illustrating a third example of an implementation of a support frame 30 an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention. FIG. 30 is an enlarged view of the portion A in FIG. 29. FIG. 31 is a front view of the support frame 30. FIG. 32 is a side view of the support frame 30. FIG. 33 is a top view of the support frame 30.

As shown in FIG.s 29-33, the support frame 30 may include a plurality of horizontal support members 31, a plurality of vertical support members 32, and a plurality of U-shaped support members 34. The horizontal support members 31 and the vertical support members 32 may each have an elliptical cross-section, and the vertical support members 32 may be coupled to the horizontal support members 31.

The support frame 30 may further include a plurality of T-shaped connectors 33 which are used to couple the horizontal support members 31 and the vertical support members 32 together. As best shown in FIG. 30, the T-shaped connectors 33 may include a horizontal tubular member 330 and a vertical tubular member 331, where the vertical tubular member 331 is transversely arranged on the horizontal tubular member 330. In particular, the vertical tubular member 331 is transverse and perpendicular to the horizontal tubular member 330. Moreover, the horizontal tubular member 330 and the vertical tubular member 331 may each have an elliptical cross-section.

The T-shaped connectors 33 may be used to couple two neighboring horizontal support members 31 together in sequence via the horizontal tubular members 330. At the same time, at least some of the neighboring horizontal support members 31 may be connected in series via the positioning members 35. In this way, the T-shaped connectors 33 and the positioning members 35 together couple the plurality of horizontal support members 31 with one another to form a substantially elliptical ring structure.

As further shown in FIG. 30, opposite ends 332 of the horizontal tubular member 330 of each T-shaped connector 33 may be detachably connected to ends of the corresponding horizontal support members 31. The corresponding horizontal support members 31 may be respectively connected to opposite ends 332 of the horizontal tubular member 330 by a retainer. To ensure the stability and firmness of the coupling, the retainer may be located proximal the respective points of attachment between the horizontal tubular member 330 and the T-shaped connector 33.

In like manner, the vertical tubular member 331 of the T-shaped connector 33 may be coupled to a corresponding vertical support member 32. The vertical tubular member 331 of each T-shaped connector 33 may be detachably connected to the corresponding vertical support member 32 by a spring-loaded latch.

It should be noted that the structure of the T-shaped connector 33 in the present example is the same as that of the T-shaped connector 13 in the example above. In particular, the manner in which the T-shaped connectors 33 are coupled to the horizontal support members 31 and the vertical support members 32 is the same as that described the examples above. The structure of the positioning member 35 in the present example is also the same as that of positioning member 25 in the example above, and the manner in which the positioning member 35 is connected to the horizontal support member 31 is the same as that of the first example above, the detailed description of which is omitted for brevity.

The U-shaped support members 34 may be detachably connected to the ring structure via the couplings. The U-shaped support members 34 support the ring structure in an oblique fashion. For example, a U-shaped support member 34 may be inclined outwardly along the ring structure by angle of 30°. It is further noted that free ends of the U-shaped support members 34 are coupled to the corresponding horizontal support members 31, and each U-shaped support member 34 has an elliptical cross-section. The structure of the U-shaped support member 34 in the present example is the same as that of the U-shaped support member 23 in the second example, and the manner in which the U-shaped support member 34 is coupled to the horizontal support member 31 is the same as that described in the second example, the detailed description of which is omitted for brevity.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of illustrating one example of an above ground pool 300 incorporating the support frame 30. As shown, the above ground pool 300 includes the support frame 30 (as shown in FIG. 29) and a pool liner 36, where the pool liner 36 may be affixed to and supported by the support frame 30 to form a pool body for holding water. In some implementations, the upper part of the pool liner 36 may be sheathed on the horizontal support members 31such that the periphery of the pool liner 36 lies against the vertical support members 32.

In order to further secure the poor liner 36, the above ground pool 300 may further include a plurality of tensioning devices 37 and a tensioning belt 38. The tensioning devices 37 may be coupled to an outer surface of the pool body. In some implementations, each tensioning device 37 may be coupled to the outer surface of the body in-between two neighboring vertical support members 32. The tensioning belt 38 may be alternately weaved about the outer surface of the body through the tensioning devices 37 and over the vertical support members 32 to retain the vertical support members 32 close to the pool body, thereby increasing the tensioning force of the pool body. In some implementations, the tensioning belt 38 may be arranged about the pool body at a height equal to approximately one-third of the height of the pool body to effectively reinforce the lower structure of the pool body to impart a greater bearing capacity. In some implementations, the above ground pool 300 may further include a plurality of support bases 320, where the support bases 320 are coupled to a bottom end of the vertical support members 32 for improving the overall robustness of the above ground pool 300.

The above ground pool 300 may further include a plurality of support belts 39 that may be coupled to and arranged about a bottom portion of the body of the pool. Each support belt 39 may be coupled between the bottom portion of the body of the pool and a horizontal portion of a corresponding U-shaped support member 34. In particular, in order to increase the strength of support of the support belts 39, each support belt 39 may include a sleeve 391 adapted to allow the horizontal portion of the U-shaped support member 34 to pass through the sleeve 391 of the support belt 39 to tension the support belt 39.

FIG. 35 is a top view illustrating a fourth example of an implementation of a support frame 40 of an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention. As shown, the support frame 40 is substantially the same as that of the support frame 30 of the previous example, except that support frame 40 includes a plurality of horizontal support members 41, a plurality of arcuate support members 42, a plurality of vertical support members (not shown), and a plurality of U-shaped support members 44. The horizontal support members 41, the arcuate support members 42, the U-shaped support members 44 and the vertical support members may each have an elliptical cross-section. The vertical support members may be coupled to the plurality of arcuate support members 42 in an upright or vertical fashion. The U-shaped support members 44 may be coupled to the horizontal support members 41 in an oblique fashion.

The support frame 40 may further include a plurality of T-shaped connectors 43, each comprising a horizontal tubular member and a vertical tubular member. The vertical tubular member is transversely arranged on the horizontal tubular member. In some implementations, the vertical tubular member is transversely perpendicular to the horizontal tubular member.

The horizontal tubular member and the vertical tubular member may each have an elliptical cross-section. The connectors 43 couple two neighboring arcuate support members 42 together in sequence via the horizontal tubular members. At the same time, the horizontal support members 41 are connected in series via the positioning members 45. In this way, the T-shaped connectors 43 and positioning members 45 couple the horizontal support members 41 and the arcuate support members 42 with one another to form an elliptical ring structure.

It should be noted that the structure of the T-shaped connector 43 in the present example is the same as that of the T-shaped connectors described in the previous examples, and the T-shaped connector 43 is coupled to the arcuate support member 42 and the vertical support member in the same manner as that described in the first example above. The structure of the positioning member 45 in the present example is the same as that of the positioning member 25 in the second example above. The positioning member 45 is, further, connected to the horizontal support member 41 in the same manner as that described in the first example above.

Further, the structure of the U-shaped support member 44 in the present example is the same as that of the U-shaped support member 23 in the second example. The U-shaped support member 44 may be coupled to the horizontal support member 41 in the manner as that described in the second example above, the detailed description of which is omitted for brevity.

In summary, by improving the structure of the support frame, a more robust above ground pool structure with a high bearing capacity may be achieved according to the teachings the present invention. The support frame is at least partially composed of tubes having an elliptical cross-section. Due to the symmetric shape of the cross-section of the elliptical tubes, difficulties in the manufacture of the tubes are reduced, thus effectively improving the support frame's stability. A slight clearance fit between the ends of the elliptical tubes and each connector enables the support frame to withstand large mechanical stresses and contributes to its enhanced stability. In addition, a tailored bolt connection is provided between the ends of the elliptical tubes and each connector, which is more secure and provides greater structural strength. Therefore, above ground pools according to the teachings of the present invention provide better bearing performance and the overall stability and safety performance than existing above ground pool designs.

The various components of the support frame of the present invention may be constructed from molded or machined stainless steel, aluminum, metal, iron, plastic, fiberglass, composite, polycarbonate, alloy, or other suitable materials. The pool liner, tensioning devices, tensioning belt, and support belt of the present invention may be constructed of flexible reinforced polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU) cloth, plastic, canvas, tactical nylon webbing, or any other durable material. Above ground pools of the present invention may further incorporate other components not shown or described herein, such as water pumps, valves, piping, motors, or other pool components and accessories known in the art.

In general, terms such as “coupled to,” and “configured for coupling to,” and “secured to,” and “configured for securing to” and “in communication with” (for example, a first component is “coupled to” or “is configured for coupling to” or is “configured for securing to” or is “in communication with” a second component) are used herein to indicate a structural, functional, mechanical, electrical, signal, optical, magnetic, electromagnetic, ionic or fluidic relationship between two or more components or elements. As such, the fact that one component is said to be in communication with a second component is not intended to exclude the possibility that additional components may be present between, and/or operatively associated or engaged with, the first and second components.

While the detailed embodiments of the present invention have been described, a person skilled in the art should understand that these are merely illustrative, and that the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. Various alterations or modifications can be made by a person skilled in the art to these embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention. However, these alterations and modifications shall all fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An above ground pool comprising:

a support frame comprising horizontal support members and vertical support members, the horizontal support members having a circular cross-section and the vertical support members having an elliptical cross-section; and

a pool liner supported by the support frame to form a body for holding water within the pool.

2. The above ground pool of claim 1, wherein the support frame further comprises a plurality of T-shaped connectors for coupling the horizontal support members and the vertical support members together, the T-shaped connector including a horizontal tubular member and a vertical tubular member transverse to the horizontal tubular member, the horizontal tubular member having a circular cross-section and the vertical tubular member having an elliptical cross-section.

3. The above ground pool of claim 2, wherein the plurality of T-shaped connectors couples two corresponding horizontal support members together in sequence to form a substantially circular ring structure.

4. The above ground pool of claim 2, wherein the vertical tubular member is coupled to a corresponding vertical support member.

5. The above ground pool of claim 3, wherein the ring structure is oval in shape.

6. The above ground pool of claim 3, wherein a first end of the horizontal tubular member is detachably connected to an end of a first corresponding horizontal support member and a second end of the horizontal tubular member is detachably connected to an end of a second corresponding horizontal support member, the first corresponding horizontal support member and the second corresponding horizontal support member being connected to the first end of the horizontal tubular member and the second end of the horizontal tubular member by a retainer located proximal the respective points of attachment.

7. The above ground pool of claim 6, wherein the retainer is a retaining pin configured to pass through a first set of positioning holes formed at the first end of the horizontal tubular member and the second end of the horizontal tubular member, and a corresponding second set of positioning holes formed at ends of the corresponding horizontal support members, the retaining pin locking the horizontal tubular member and the corresponding horizontal support members together.

8. The above ground pool of claim 4, wherein the vertical tubular member is detachably connected to a corresponding vertical support member by a spring-loaded latch coupled to an end of the vertical support member, the latch being configured to engage an aperture formed at an open end of the vertical tubular member.

9. The above ground pool of claim 8, wherein the spring-loaded latch includes a pin boss that houses a spring element and detent pin, the pin boss being mounted inside one end of the vertical support member and configured such that the detent pin is outwardly biased by the spring element to engage the aperture, the detent pin locking the vertical tubular member and the vertical support member together.

10. The above ground pool of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of tensioning devices coupled to an outer surface of the body of the pool and a tensioning belt, wherein each tensioning device is coupled to the outer surface of the body in-between two neighboring vertical support members, the tensioning belt being alternately weaved about the outer surface of the body through the tensioning devices and over the vertical support members to retain the vertical support members close to the body.

11. The above ground pool of claim 10, wherein the tensioning belt is arranged about the body of the pool at a height equal to approximately one-third of the height of the body of the pool.

12. The above ground pool of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of support bases coupled to a bottom end of the vertical support members.

13. The above ground pool of claim 1, wherein the circular cross-section is similar to a round shape.

14. The above ground pool of claim 1, wherein the elliptical cross-section is similar to an ellipse shape.

15. An above ground pool comprising:

a support frame comprising horizontal support members and vertical support members, the vertical support members having an elliptical cross-section; and

a pool liner supported by the support frame to form a body for holding water within the pool, wherein the support frame further comprises a plurality of T-shaped connectors for coupling the horizontal support members and the vertical support members together, the T-shaped connector including a horizontal tubular member and a vertical tubular member transverse to the horizontal tubular member, the vertical tubular member having an elliptical cross-section.

16. The above ground pool of claim 15, wherein the plurality of T-shaped connectors couples two corresponding horizontal support members together in sequence to form a substantially circular ring structure.

17. The above ground pool of claim 15, wherein the vertical tubular member is coupled to a corresponding vertical support member.

18. The above ground pool of claim 17, wherein a first end of the horizontal tubular member is detachably connected to an end of a first corresponding horizontal support member and a second end of the horizontal tubular member is detachably connected to an end of a second corresponding horizontal support member, the first corresponding horizontal support member and the second corresponding horizontal support member being connected to the first end of the horizontal tubular member and the second end of the horizontal tubular member by a retainer located proximal the respective points of attachment.

19. The above ground pool of claim 18, wherein the retainer is a retaining pin configured to pass through a first set of positioning holes formed at the first end of the horizontal tubular member and the second end of the horizontal tubular member, and a corresponding second set of positioning holes formed at ends of the corresponding horizontal support members, the retaining pin locking the horizontal tubular member and the corresponding horizontal support members together.

20. The above ground pool of claim 15, further comprising a plurality of tensioning devices coupled to an outer surface of the body of the pool and a tensioning belt, wherein each tensioning device is coupled to the outer surface of the body in-between two neighboring vertical support members, the tensioning belt being alternately weaved about the outer surface of the body through the tensioning devices and over the vertical support members to retain the vertical support members close to the body.