Submerged Cleaners With Ambient Flow Guides Patents (Class 15/1.7)
  • Patent number: 10246894
    Abstract: Mobile swimming pool cleaners are detailed. Determination of adherence of the cleaners on lateral walls of swimming pools may occur in various ways, and power of pumps of the cleaners may be modified as results of the determinations. User input, further, may be provided indicating whether a cleaner has reached the waterline associated with a lateral wall and whether the cleaner is aspirating air into its inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Assignee: ZODIAC POOL CARE EUROPE
    Inventors: Rémi Deloche, Philippe Pichon
  • Patent number: 10249395
    Abstract: A cleaning device includes an external casing (1) forming a suction hood and an upper suction mouth (2) and being provided with drive arrangements arranged on each side and equipped with independent motors and corresponding transmission mechanisms on each side; and cleaning rollers (51, 52, 53, 54); sets of internal cleaning rollers (53, 54) disposed close to the center of the hollow interior of the casing (1) and having a width approximately equal to the distance between the side elements (11) of the casing (1); sets of external cleaning rollers (51, 52) located close to the front and rear edges of the casing (1) of the cleaning device and having a total width slightly greater than the width of the casing; a resilient joint at the support for the external rollers; an adhesion turbine, a suction turbine, and auxiliary drive wheels on the internal cleaning rollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Assignee: Ingenieria y Marketing, S.A.
    Inventors: Jesús Lacalle Bayo, Juan Ignacio Vaquer Perez, Miguel Moreno Muñoz
  • Patent number: 10246892
    Abstract: A swimming pool filtration systems and particularly toward a variable speed pump equipped with an electronically commutated motor, capable of producing variable water pressure heads suitable for operating swimming pool pressure cleaners as well as swimming pool filters. An electronically controlled electric actuating diverter valve is used to divert water flow to the filter or the pressure cleaner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Assignee: Waterway Plastics
    Inventors: M Reza Mirzaei, William Crane Spears
  • Patent number: 10227081
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners that remove debris from water using a plurality of cyclonic flows, or that include a removable impeller subassembly, a check valve for a debris canister, a particle separator assembly having a handle that locks to the pool cleaner, a modular roller drive gear box, or a roller latch that secures a roller to the pool cleaner. Exemplary embodiments are also directed to the check valve and the roller latch themselves. Exemplary embodiments are directed to a filter medium for pool cleaners that includes embossments providing flow channels for water, and to roller assemblies for pool cleaners. Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners including alternative pump motor engagements. Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners power supplies that include a potted and contoured power board assembly, and to kickstands therefor. Exemplary embodiments are directed to a pool cleaner caddy, and removable wheels therefor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2019
    Assignee: Hayward Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Garrett Jacob Ferrell, Graham M. Hayes, Omar Enrique Osuna
  • Patent number: 10224839
    Abstract: A smart power switch for a swimming pool vacuum having a battery powered motor for driving a propeller within a vacuum head to create thrust and suction; the power switch including a microprocessor combined with two integrated motor-driver integrated circuits for driving the motor at different speeds and for detecting and clearing motor jams. Red, green and blue LED indicators notify the user of the state of the motor and motor driver. The microprocessor detects spikes in motor current to determine a motor jam and operates the motor driver to control the motor, including stopping and reversing the motor, to clear an obstruction in the vacuum head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Inventor: Dan Dietrich
  • Patent number: 10221584
    Abstract: An automated swimming pool cleaner has a housing having an inlet formed on a bottom surface thereof. A drive mechanism is located within the housing. A first rolling mechanism is coupled to a bottom section of the housing. A second rolling mechanism is coupled to the bottom section of the housing. A third rolling mechanism is coupled to the bottom section of the housing between the first rolling mechanism and the second rolling mechanism. The third rolling mechanism extends lower from the housing than the first rolling mechanism and the second rolling mechanism allowing the automated swimming pool cleaner to pivot about the third rolling mechanism. The drive mechanism rotates at least one of the first rolling mechanism, the second rolling mechanism, or the third rolling mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: COMPUROBOT TECHNOLOGY COMPANY
    Inventors: Wing-Tak Hui, Andrew Matthew Hui, Martin Wing-Kin Hui
  • Patent number: 10184259
    Abstract: The invention relates to an underwater cleaner (1), especially for a swimming pool, comprising a housing (2) in which an especially battery-powered pump having an electric motor (4) and an impeller (3) is arranged, wherein the housing (2) comprises an inlet opening (23) and an outlet opening (22) for a flow path, said flow path forming a first channel section (13) originating from the first inlet opening (23) and a second channel section (14) accommodating the impeller (3), wherein the second channel section (14) is arranged in an inclined manner in relation to the first channel section (13), and wherein the impeller axis (18) is arranged in an inclined manner in relation to a normal (24) to the opening cross-section of the inlet opening (23). The ratio A/B of a first cross-sectional surface A to a second cross-sectional surface B is less than 2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Inventor: Andrés Fränkel
  • Patent number: 10174516
    Abstract: A liquid-submersible vacuum system includes a housing canister enclosing a filtration element and a water pump. Power comes from a power converter that plugs into a standard AC power supply. The vacuum system further includes a diffuser cap and a discharge hose cap, with each providing the vacuum system with a discrete mode of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Inventor: Matthew P. D'Aguanno
  • Patent number: 10167650
    Abstract: A robotic pool cleaner includes a housing, a propulsion mechanism configured to propel the robotic pool cleaner along an interior surface of a pool, and a suction mechanism for drawing liquid from the pool into the housing. A transceiver is configured to receive a signal that is indicative of a relative location of another robotic pool cleaner. A controller is configured to control the propulsion mechanism in accordance with the indicated location of the other robotic pool cleaner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2019
    Assignee: Aquatron Robotic Technology Ltd.
    Inventors: Ben-Zion Torem, Benjamin Attar, Shahar Schloss
  • Patent number: 10161154
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments include a pool cleaner having a body and articulated cleaning member extending from the body. The articulated cleaning member can be pivotally and/or rotatably coupled to the body. The articulated cleaning member can be pivoted or rotated with respect to the body to accommodate changes in the terrain of a pool. A method for cleaning a swimming pool is also provided where a pool cleaner having articulated cleaning members is submerged in a pool and allowing the pool cleaner to traverse an immersed surface of the pool. The method further rotates the articulated cleaning member in response to a difference in an elevation of the immersed surface between the articulated cleaning member and the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: Hayward Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Benoit Joseph Renaud
  • Patent number: 10161153
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners that remove debris from water using a plurality of cyclonic flows, or that include a removable impeller subassembly, a check valve for a debris canister, a particle separator assembly having a handle that locks to the pool cleaner, a modular roller drive gear box, or a roller latch that secures a roller to the pool cleaner. Exemplary embodiments are also directed to the check valve and the roller latch themselves. Exemplary embodiments are directed to a filter medium for pool cleaners that includes embossments providing flow channels for water, and to roller assemblies for pool cleaners. Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners including alternative pump motor engagements. Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners power supplies that include a potted and contoured power board assembly, and to kickstands therefor. Exemplary embodiments are directed to a pool cleaner caddy, and removable wheels therefor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: Hayward Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Graham M. Hayes, Antoine Dallaire, Patrick Mainville
  • Patent number: 10156083
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners that remove debris from water using a plurality of cyclonic flows, or that include a removable impeller subassembly, a check valve for a debris canister, a particle separator assembly having a handle that locks to the pool cleaner, a modular roller drive gear box, or a roller latch that secures a roller to the pool cleaner. Exemplary embodiments are also directed to the check valve and the roller latch themselves. Exemplary embodiments are directed to a filter medium for pool cleaners that includes embossments providing flow channels for water, and to roller assemblies for pool cleaners. Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners including alternative pump motor engagements. Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners power supplies that include a potted and contoured power board assembly, and to kickstands therefor. Exemplary embodiments are directed to a pool cleaner caddy, and removable wheels therefor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2018
    Assignee: Hayward Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Ortiz, Mark Peastrel, Scott Teuscher, Graham M. Hayes, Edward Lawrence Marciano
  • Patent number: 10155538
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners that remove debris from water using a plurality of cyclonic flows, or that include a removable impeller subassembly, a check valve for a debris canister, a particle separator assembly having a handle that locks to the pool cleaner, a modular roller drive gear box, or a roller latch that secures a roller to the pool cleaner. Exemplary embodiments are also directed to the check valve and the roller latch themselves. Exemplary embodiments are directed to a filter medium for pool cleaners that includes embossments providing flow channels for water, and to roller assemblies for pool cleaners. Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners including alternative pump motor engagements. Exemplary embodiments are directed to pool cleaners power supplies that include a potted and contoured power board assembly, and to kickstands therefor. Exemplary embodiments are directed to a pool cleaner caddy, and removable wheels therefor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2018
    Assignee: Hayward Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward Lawrence Marciano, Scott Teuscher, Graham M. Hayes
  • Patent number: 10145137
    Abstract: A swimming pool cleaner is driven along a submerged surface by water and debris flowing past a turbine positioned between an inlet and outlet of the cleaner. Retractable elements carried proximate the inlet form a plenum for water to enhance adherence of the pool cleaner to the submerged pool surface being cleaner. A drive train independently drives each of two wheels for maneuvering the pool cleaner in forward and reverse directions along the submerged surface. A hose connector operable with an outlet port is angled toward the forward direction of movement of the pool cleaner such that a suction hose will be placed slightly ahead of the pool cleaner when climbing a side wall surface to provide a weight for keeping the cleaner below the water surface and thus prevent an undesirable sucking of air at the inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Inventors: Pavel Sebor, Robert Sebor
  • Patent number: 10105738
    Abstract: A device for cleaning and/or inspection of a flow channel is provided including a purge hose introduced into the flow channel, charged with high pressure purge water, and connected to a channel nozzle provided with jet nozzles creating a recoil effect. The channel nozzle is controllable by rotation around its axis. A simple, cost-effective, trouble-free construction and high precision can be accomplished by subdividing the purge hose into at least two sections which are connected with each other by a coupling unit through which high pressure purge water flows. The device has a housing element connected to a purge hose section and a hollow piston element arranged in the housing element in an axially movable manner and connected to another purge hose section. The housing element and the hollow piston element are supported by a spring and are cooperating via a converter converting an axial movement into a rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Inventor: Karl Wiedemann
  • Patent number: 10107000
    Abstract: Example embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a robotic pool cleaner and a control system of a robotic pool cleaner having an optical sensor positioned relative to an intake pathway of the robotic cleaner to monitor a flow of material through the intake pathway. An output of an optical sensor of the robotic pool cleaner can be monitored by the control system of the robotic pool cleaner to determine whether a detectable level of debris is flowing through the intake pathway. The robotic pool cleaner can perform one or more operations in response to a determination that a detectable level of debris is flowing through the intake pathway based on the output of the optical sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: Hayward Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Nathaniel Barcelos, Scott Teuscher
  • Patent number: 10094130
    Abstract: An electric-powered submersible vacuum cleaner for filtering water in a pool includes a base with an inlet port extending therethrough. A plurality of wheels extends from the lower surface of the base to facilitate movement of the cleaner over a surface of the pool. An impeller coaxially aligned with the inlet draws water and debris from the pool surface. An electric-powered drive train is coupled to the cleaner and configured to rotate the impeller. A discharge conduit in fluid communication with the inlet extends substantially normal with respect to the upper surface of the base and circumscribes the impeller to direct the flow of water/debris drawn through the inlet by the impeller. A filter mounted over the discharge conduit filters the debris from the drawn water and passes filtered water into the pool. A rotatable handle is attached to and facilitates manual movement of the cleaner over the pool surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: Water Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Guy Erlich, James Kosmyna, John Many, Jonathan Elmaleh, Curtis Elliott
  • Patent number: 10053883
    Abstract: A cleaning structure is attachable to a submersible pool cleaning vehicle (PCV). In one exemplary embodiment the PCV has an endless loop track and a chassis therefore. The cleaning structure attaches to the chassis and acts as a cap covering the drive wheels and track. The cleaning structure includes a base and bristles extending outwardly therefrom. The bristles define fingers. In one embodiment, the fingers are of a uniform length. In another embodiment, the fingers are of a graduated length. Others embodiments include the fingers being distributed on the base in a random pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: Compurobot Technology Company
    Inventors: Wing-Kin Hui, Wing-Tak Hui
  • Patent number: 10036175
    Abstract: A swimming pool cleaner is driven along a submerged surface by water and debris flowing past a turbine positioned between an inlet and outlet of the cleaner. Retractable elements carried proximate the inlet form a plenum for water to enhance adherence of the pool cleaner to the submerged pool surface being cleaner. A drive train independently drives each of two wheels for maneuvering the pool cleaner in forward and reverse directions along the submerged surface. A hose connector operable with an outlet port is angled toward the forward direction of movement of the pool cleaner such that a suction hose will be placed slightly ahead of the pool cleaner when climbing a side wall surface to provide a weight for keeping the cleaner below the water surface and thus prevent an undesirable sucking of air at the inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2018
    Inventors: Pavel Sebor, Robert Sebor
  • Patent number: 10030403
    Abstract: An underwater cleaning apparatus includes a front body having a filter and a rear body removably attachable to the front body. The rear body includes a motor having a shaft, an impeller configured to draw in water through an inlet opening in the front body, and a gap. The impeller is positioned in the gap in the rear body. A lock is configured to secure the rear body to the front body. A battery is configured to supply electrical power to the motor to drive the shaft and a power switch is configured to control the supply of electrical power to the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: KOKIDO DEVELOPMENT LIMITED
    Inventor: Jean Julien Bruneel
  • Patent number: 10030402
    Abstract: Swimming pool cleaners are detailed with filtration components attached at the rears of their bodies. At least some of the components may be external to a body, rather than within it, so as to provide greater surface area for filtered water to exit. They also may allow users to view the quantity of debris trapped in the filter without having to dissemble the cleaner. By contrast with many existing external filter bags, moreover, the components need not protrude materially above (or below) the heights of the bodies, hence avoiding creation of hydraulic drag as the cleaners move within pools, spas, or other liquid-containing vessels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: ZODIAC POOL SYSTEMS, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Edward Moore, Hendrikus Johannes van der Meijden
  • Patent number: 10012003
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, machine, device, configured for cleaning debris from water in a water container via a water cleaner that includes a handle, a collection net configured to collect debris resident in the water, and a frame configured to hold substantially open a primary inlet of the net.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Inventor: Nicholas Howard Des Champs
  • Patent number: 9982449
    Abstract: A pool circulation system has a water intake device that is attached to an intake port with an intake hose. The water intake device includes an intake housing that defines an inner chamber; a plurality of apertures; an outer screen that fits over the intake housing to cover the plurality of apertures; and a hose attachment fitting for attaching the intake hose. A deadweight anchor is attached to the water intake device for holding the water intake device on the bottom of the swimming pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2018
    Inventor: Todd Kennedy
  • Patent number: 9982452
    Abstract: A pool cleaner having a coarse filter and a fine filter. The coarse filter removes large pieces of debris. The fine filter removes fine particles from the water. In an embodiment, the fine filter is a filter bag made from a cloth material. In an embodiment, the coarse filter is a mesh grating with small holes. In an embodiment, the fine filter is supported by a rigid mesh placed downstream from the coarse filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2018
    Assignee: COMPUROBOT TECHNOLOGY COMPANY
    Inventors: Wing-Tak Hui, Andrew Matthew Hui, Wing-Kin Hui
  • Patent number: 9976316
    Abstract: A tool for cleaning debris from swimming pools includes a frame, a corresponding net, and retaining means for retaining the net on the frame. The preferred retaining means is an elongated strip of resilient, flexible material, having a generally U-shaped cross-section. The web portion of the cross-section includes an exterior surface smoothly shaped between its two edges to urge debris from the pool into the net. The leg portions of the cross-section include gripping portions to assist in engaging and/or disengaging the retaining means from the frame, to permit the net to be assembled, changed or replaced. Preferably, the retaining means is formed from at least two different materials. The preferred frame of the tool is fabricated from aluminum and includes an elongated, curved frame portion with its ends permanently assembled into the end of a tubular attachment member, to permit attachment of the tool to a handle, pole or similar structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Assignee: RESH, INC.
    Inventor: Eric Resh
  • Patent number: 9977433
    Abstract: A pool cleaner is provided including a top housing, a chassis and a computing system. The computing system can include a PID control module for maintaining a process variable at a setpoint value. The PID control module can receive the setpoint value for the process variable and can monitor the process variable to calculate the phase difference between the setpoint value of the process variable and the present state of the process variable. The PID control module can automatically tune the PID control module to account for the pool surface the pool cleaner is cleaning by using the phase difference previously calculated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2018
    Assignee: Hayward Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott Teuscher
  • Patent number: 9963897
    Abstract: The invention relates to a power lead for a swimming pool cleaning robot. Said power lead comprises a rotary connector and a buoyancy means supporting said rotary connector. An upper part of said buoyancy means is a cap shaped to slide under a swimming pool cover, under the effect of a traction exerted by the swimming pool cleaning robot on the buoyancy means through the power lead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: ZODIAC POOL CARE EUROPE
    Inventors: Louis Favie, Remi Deloche
  • Patent number: 9963896
    Abstract: A mobile filter for removing solid contaminants from water such as swimming pools. The mobile filter has a handle maneuvered chassis, a powered propeller housed in a propeller housing, which propeller propels water through a removable bag mesh filter installable on the propeller housing. A submersible battery pack is slidably coupled to the handle, and is readily removable therefrom. An electrical conductor spans and connects the submersible battery pack and the submersible electric motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Inventor: Glen Heffernan
  • Patent number: 9963898
    Abstract: The present application discloses an underwater cleaning robot, which includes a chassis provided with a plurality of driving wheels. The chassis includes a primary suction port and a pump assembly. The primary suction port is provided with a channel which passes through the chassis. The chassis is connected to the filtering assembly. The filtering assembly includes a secondary pump port and a secondary suction port. The pump includes a primary pump port which is connected to the pump impeller. The secondary pump port is connected to the primary pump port. The secondary suction port is connected to the primary suction port. When assembling, the secondary suction port on the filtering assembly is in line with the primary suction port, and the secondary pump port is connected to the primary pump port. Finally, the filtering assembly is snapped into the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: Ningbo Pulefei Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Weimin Li
  • Patent number: 9951537
    Abstract: A top-bottom pool cleaner is provided including a top housing and a nose attached to the top housing. The top housing including an exterior surface and a top surface having a filter. The nose defines a chamber for receiving and retaining water within the nose. The chamber of the nose receives water through the filter when the cleaner is submerged and retains water within the chamber when the cleaner reaches a top surface of the water from under the water surface, the retention of the water within the nose preventing the pool cleaner from oscillating above and below the top surface of the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: Hayward Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Omar Enrique Osuna, Joseph Tessitore
  • Patent number: 9945140
    Abstract: A cleaner includes an external casing forming a suction hood, an upper suction mouth, the casing also being provided with a drive arranged on each side and equipped with independent motors and corresponding transmission mechanisms on each side, and cleaning rollers; sets of internal cleaning rollers disposed close to the center of the hollow interior of the casing and having a width approximately equal to the distance between the side elements of the casing; sets of external cleaning rollers located close to the front and rear edges of the casing of the cleaning device and having a total width slightly greater than the width of the casing; a resilient joint at the support for the external rollers; a pair of adhesion turbines; auxiliary drive wheels on the internal cleaning rollers; a flotation body connected to the casing and having a fixed and/or variable volume; and laterally mobile turbines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: Ingenieria y Marketing, S.A.
    Inventors: Jesús LaCalle Bayo, Juan Ignacio Vaquer Perez, José Ignacio Rosello Garcia
  • Patent number: 9938742
    Abstract: A pool cleaning device includes a debris collection member having a forward displacement unit connected thereto. The debris collection member includes a generally rectangular-shaped frame having a mesh net suspended therefrom. A pole receiver is positioned along the rear wall of the frame and interacts with a pole to receive a pushing and/or pulling force from a user. The forward displacement unit includes a leading edge member having a plurality of protrusions for disrupting debris located along a pool body. The leading edge member is suspended between a pair of extension arms which also are connected to the frame. A tensioning mechanism is positioned between each arm and the frame and secures the leading edge at a resting location that is above the frame and net.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Inventor: Benjamin Fertic
  • Patent number: 9902477
    Abstract: A drive module for submersible autonomous vehicles is disclosed. The drive module includes a propulsion element configured to engage and rotate against a surface, a motor configured to drive the propulsion element, and a controller configured to cause the motor to drive the propulsion element. The drive module also includes a housing configured to be removably, releasably coupled to the exterior of a submersible autonomous vehicle. The motor and the controller are disposed within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: AQUA PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Kameshwar Durvasula, Ethan Hanan, William Londono
  • Patent number: 9903130
    Abstract: An external docking station may be provided and may include a filter manipulator that is arranged to (i) input a filter into a pool cleaning robot that exited a pool and is located in a filter replacement position and to (ii) assist in positioning the filter at a filtering position in which the filter is at least partially disposed within a fluid path formed between a first fluid opening and a second fluid opening of the housing thereby allowing the filter to apply a filtering operation on fluid that passes through the fluid path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: MAYTRONICS LTD.
    Inventors: Shay Witelson, Oded Golan, Boaz Ben Dov, Amir Gilead
  • Patent number: 9903133
    Abstract: An underwater cleaning apparatus includes a front body having a filter and a rear body removably attachable to the front body. The rear body includes a motor having a shaft, an impeller configured to draw in water through an inlet opening in the front body, and a gap. The impeller is positioned in the gap in the rear body. A lock is configured to secure the rear body to the front body. A battery is configured to supply electrical power to the motor to drive the shaft and a power switch is configured to control the supply of electrical power to the motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: KOKIDO DEVELOPMENT LIMITED
    Inventor: Jean Julien Bruneel
  • Patent number: 9856669
    Abstract: A pool cleaner having an intake opening at the bottom of the body and two rollers on either side of the intake opening on which the pool cleaner rests and traverse the pool floor. In an embodiment, the rollers define a cleaning path with maximum water flow through the intake opening into the pool cleaner caused by hydraulic forces as a result of at least one pump being turned on. In an embodiment, pool cleaner is unstable when moving on the rollers. In an embodiment, wheels are placed at corners of the pool cleaner and raised above the floor, allowing a rocking motion and easy turns of pool cleaner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: Compurobot Technology Company
    Inventors: Wing-Tak Hui, Andrew Matthew Hui, Wing-Kin Hui
  • Patent number: 9856666
    Abstract: The present invention consist of an improved and very compact hand held pool debris removal system using a hydrodynamic water circulation device capable of producing significant water flow through a conduit. Such water flow is then used to lift and convey debris from bodies of water such as fountains, ponds and swimming pools. The device operates by creating a high speed water jet curtain using an external source of energy by means of pressurized water, which impinges on an steady body of water transforming the energy provided by the external water source into a strong flow capable of lifting and conveying light and heavy debris from the floor of bodies of water and forcing these debris into a fine mesh filter for retention and later disposal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Inventor: Imack Laydera-Collins
  • Patent number: 9833804
    Abstract: A nozzle apparatus comprising: an inlet, an outlet, a filter disposed between the inlet and the outlet, and, a container; wherein the nozzle apparatus defines a first flow path for particles too large for said filter and a second flow path towards the outlet for particles small enough for said filter; and wherein the container is provided downstream of the first flow path. In this way the pressure on the container downstream of the first fluid path causes the debris to accumulate therein and the nozzle is less liable to blockages. The apparatus is of particular use as a sprinkler system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: Rig Deluge Global Limited
    Inventor: Ian Garden
  • Patent number: 9828785
    Abstract: A mobile filter for removing solid contaminants from water such as swimming pools. The mobile filter has a handle maneuvered chassis, a powered propeller housed in a tubular body, which propeller propels water through a removable bag mesh filter installable on the tubular body. A submersible battery pack is slidably coupled to the handle, and is readily removable therefrom. The submersible battery pack has a cord terminating in a submersible connector matingly compatible with a corresponding submersible connector accessible on the tubular body containing the propeller and its submersible electric motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Inventor: Glen Heffernan
  • Patent number: 9809989
    Abstract: The invention is a swimming pool cleaning apparatus comprising a cleaning unit intended to be immersed in the swimming pool, at least one liquid filter circuit between at least one liquid net and at least one liquid outlet via a filter chamber removable from the body of the cleaning unit. The filter chamber comprises a cover and a filter basket. The cover including releasable means for fastening the filter basket and means for locking the filter chamber to the body of the cleaning unit, these locking means being releasable and, when released, causing an extraction handle to be deployed from the filter chamber and urged towards a predetermined position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: ZODIAC POOL CARE EUROPE
    Inventors: Philippe Blanc Tailleur, Faustine Munoz, Philippe Pichon
  • Patent number: 9809990
    Abstract: An automated swimming pool cleaner has a housing having an inlet formed on a bottom surface thereof. At least one slot is formed in a bottom side surface of the housing. A flap is provided and is in fluid communication with the slot. A wheel is coupled to the flap. The wheel keeps a bottom surface of the flap a minimum distance above a floor/wall of a swimming pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: COMPUROBOT TECHNOLOGY COMPANY
    Inventor: Wing-Kin Hui
  • Patent number: 9790700
    Abstract: An underwater station may include a filter manipulator that is arranged to input a filter into a pool cleaning robot that is located in a filter replacement position and to assist in positioning the filter at a filtering position in which the filter is at least partially disposed within a fluid path formed between a first fluid opening and a second fluid opening of the housing thereby allowing the filter to apply a filtering operation on fluid that passes through the fluid path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Inventors: Yaniv Tamar, Eyal Tryber, Yermi Herut, Shay Witelson, Oded Golan, Amir Gilead
  • Patent number: 9791840
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and device for modifying a device for cleaning a submerged surface, the device including a cleaning appliance, a control unit suitable control signals to the appliance, characterized in that a modification device is inserted onto the link between the control unit and the appliance, which modification device includes an antenna for receiving wireless request signals and a signal-processing unit for transmitting signals from the control unit to the appliance and, upon receipt of wireless request signals in the receiving antenna, for ignoring signals from the control unit, and producing and transmitting priority control signals to the cleaning appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: ZODIAC POOL CARE EUROPE
    Inventor: Thierry Michelon
  • Patent number: 9784007
    Abstract: A swimming pool cleaner including a body having a debris inlet and a debris outlet and defining an elongate slotted cavity pivotably holding proximal ends of flap members forming a segmented skirt which forms with the pool surface a plenum from which water and debris are drawn into the inlet. The slotted cavity is configured for strain-free insertion of the flap-member proximal ends into the cavity. A removable nozzle within the debris inlet and retaining the flap-member proximal ends in the cavity. A method for inlet to control debris-laden water flow. The cleaner further including a tool-free nozzle-mounting structure at the debris inlet removably retaining the nozzle within the debris inlet and a tool-free wheel-mounting assembly. a plurality of removable nozzles are interchangeably secured within the debris inlet, each nozzle having a flow opening sized differently from flow opening(s) of the other nozzle(s) to control debris-laden water flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: Hayward Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Dieter J. Rief, Hans Rainer Schlitzer
  • Patent number: 9777497
    Abstract: A device is disclosed comprising a rigid frame having disposed thereon at least one opening for receiving a pole of a pool brush, the device further having means for securing the device in stationary position. The opening has a perimeter defining a surface adapted for use as a fulcrum. Means for securing the device may be one or a plurality of footpads, or it may be an elongated cord connected to the frame and adapted to secure about a stationary object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Inventor: Jeff McNeal
  • Patent number: 9758979
    Abstract: A swimming pool cleaner including a body having a debris inlet and a debris outlet and defining an elongate slotted cavity pivotably holding proximal ends of flap members forming a segmented skirt which forms with the pool surface a plenum from which water and debris are drawn into the inlet. The slotted cavity is configured for strain-free insertion of the flap-member proximal ends into the cavity. A removable nozzle within the debris inlet and retaining the flap-member proximal ends in the cavity. A method for inlet to control debris-laden water flow. The cleaner further including a tool-free nozzle-mounting structure at the debris inlet removably retaining the nozzle within the debris inlet and a tool-free wheel-mounting assembly, a plurality of removable nozzles are interchangeably secured within the debris inlet, each nozzle having a flow opening sized differently from flow opening(s) of the other nozzle(s) to control debris-laden water flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Assignee: Hayward Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Dieter J. Rief, Hans Rainer Schlitzer
  • Patent number: 9745767
    Abstract: A fluid distribution system for an underwater pool cleaner comprises an inlet body having an inlet for receiving a supply of pressurized fluid, a valve assembly body in fluid communication with the inlet of the inlet body and including a plurality of fluid outlets, a first one of the outlets provides fluid for propelling the underwater pool cleaner in a forward direction and a second one of the outlets provides fluid for propelling the underwater pool cleaner in a reverse direction, and a valve subassembly including a cam wheel that is fluidicly driven by the supply of pressurized fluid and periodically switches the supply of pressurized fluid from the first one of the outlets to the second one of the outlets to periodically change direction of propulsion of the underwater pool cleaner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: Hayward Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Benoit Joseph Renaud, David John Hardy, Jason Wayne Parcell, Scott Teuscher
  • Patent number: 9740199
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device and a method of remotely controlling a motorized submerged surface cleaning apparatus (1) comprising a body and a drive device, said remote control device comprising a control terminal (15) having a housing, a device (16) for transmitting control signals for the drive device, characterized in that the housing comprises an orientation detector furnishing at least one orientation parameter of the housing, and in that said device comprises a unit for processing orientation parameters, producing a first command for the drive device for an orientation parameter that is within a first interval of values, and a second command for the drive device for an orientation parameter that is within a second predetermined interval of values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: ZODIAC POOL CARE EUROPE
    Inventor: Thierry Michelon
  • Patent number: 9732537
    Abstract: An apparatus for removing sediment from a pond includes: a handle; a vacuum unit connected to the handle, said vacuum unit having a first opening adapted for receiving material sucked into said opening and a second opening for material sucked into said vacuum unit to exit at a point outside said pond, said vacuum unit being submersible, supported by at least one wheel, and having an aperture for receiving a mixture from a bottom of the pond; a hose associated with said second opening; and a storage container, said storage container having a body and a storage film cartridge adapted to be positioned in said body, said cartridge having storage film therein, said storage film being permeable to water and having a mesh, and a sealing mechanism having an actuator operably connected to said cartridge, wherein actuation of said actuator rotates said cartridge causing said storage film to seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: Pond Mower, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph E. Kovarik, Jeff Franek
  • Patent number: 9725140
    Abstract: An apparatus, system and method for removing and treating contaminated materials on a bottom of a body of water and introducing growth packets to revitalize the treated bottom of the body of water. The structure may comprise a vessel with an open face. The vessel may be lowered down to the bottom of the body of water with the face facing down. As a result, the vessel and the bottom form an isolated space. The structure may comprise at least one agitating device(s) for stirring up the materials inside the vessel so as to form a mixture containing the sediment materials which in turn contain the contaminants. Multiple at least one pipe(s) may be coupled to the vessel for transporting the mixture out of the vessel for processing (filtering, treating with chemicals, etc.) so as to neutralize or eliminate the contaminants in the mixture. Then, the treated mixture can be returned to the inside of the vessel via the at least one pipe(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: Air & Earth LLC
    Inventor: Thomas J. Kryzak