Abstract: A plastic slide is provided with a pump at the bottom of the slide and placed into a pool, typically a wading pool. A strainer assembly filters out grass and other foreign matter from the water, and transfers the water through a small electrical, air, or battery powered pump to the top of the slide, where the water is released. The water then falls down the slide and back into the pool where it repeats the cycle as long as the pump is energized.

Abstract: A hydraulic pool lift is disclosed. The lift has enhanced stability due to its adjustable support assembly, and a reinforced piston rod. A load carrying component is rotated 180° from a deck position to a pool position. A curved track on a hydraulically driven piston guides the displacement of the load carrying component. The track is wider in its straight portions. The wider straight portion closely approximates the width of a notch in an end cap through which the track and piston travel. This arrangement affords greater stability in the uppermost position for ease of loading and unloading the lift.

Abstract: An ice skating rink structure comprising a plurality of boards and a plurality of brackets is provided. Each of the brackets has a U-shaped support for holding one or more of the boards and has at least one downward projection for insertion into the ground. The downward projection of the bracket is inserted into the ground and boards are placed within the U-shaped support such that the boards define the shape of an ice skating rink. A liner is placed inside of the ice skating rink and water is poured onto the liner and allowed to freeze and form an ice skating rink. By using boards with different heights, the present invention allows for the quick assembly of an ice skating rink on level or unlevel ground.

Abstract: A lightweight, easy to assemble spa cover kit is disclosed herein. The cover kit includes a square or rectangular-shaped overhead cap pivotally attached at two corners along one end to two dual hinged support posts. The cap is made of lightweight, weather-proof material, such as molded fiberglass, and may include skylights to allow natural light through during use. The lower end of each dual hinged support post is pivotally attached to the deck surface on which the spa sits. During use, the upper end of each dual hinged support post is pivotally attached to one comer of the cap. After the lower ends of the dual hinged support posts are attached to the deck and the upper ends of the support posts are attached to the corners of the cap, the dual hinged support posts are slowly lifted to a vertical position while the cap is slowly rotated so that it is aligned horizontally over the spa.

Abstract: A hydraulic pool lift is disclosed. The lift has enhanced stability due to its adjustable support assembly, and a reinforced piston rod. A load carrying component is rotated 180° from a deck position to a pool position. A curved track on a hydraulically driven piston guides the displacement of the load carrying component. The track is wider in its straight portions. The wider straight portion closely approximates the width of a notch in an end cap through which the track and piston travel. This arrangement affords greater stability in the uppermost position for ease of loading and unloading the lift.

Abstract: A roof movable between a raised position in which it forms a shelter over a terrace and a lowered position in which it forms a cover over a swimming pool. The roof is mounted on pivotable pillars via hinges. One edge of the roof is supported in the raised position by a winch and cable device for moving the roof assembly between the two positions.

Abstract: An aquatic exercise and rehabilitation device includes a cycle assembly mounted in a vessel containing water. The cycle assembly includes a seat and a pivotally mounted handlebar on each side of the seat. A pair of pedals is rotationally mounted with each pedal connected to a respective handlebars by a linkage for transmitting the motion of the handlebars and pedals to each other. The motor drive assembly is connected to the pedals for causing rotation to the pedals.

Abstract: An in-ground pool with an inflatable flange and a non-rigid flexible body to permit the body to conform to the interior surface of a hole. The pool is designed with an exterior circumferential flange which is placed around the ledge of a hole dug in sand or soil which positions the body of the pool over the interior surface of the hole. The pool may then be filled with water with the interior surface of the hole acting as lateral support for the pool. The flange is secured to the ground with stakes which engage the flange and are driven into the ground around the exterior perimeter of the flange. When it is desired to remove the pool, the water is removed and the flange deflated so that the pool may be folded for storage and/or transport.

Abstract: The exit ramp of the invention comprises a flat, discoid base lying flatly on the bottom wall of a conventional pool skimmer screen bucket. An upright post is fixed to the base and vertically extends beyond the bucket upper edge. An inclined platform is pivotally installed upon the post upper end. The platform is selectively pivoted into a position in which it will reach or extend beyond the pool skimmer well upper edge, so as to allow small animals caught in the pool skimmer well to climb onto the platform and exit the pool skimmer well onto the pool deck. Elastic strings are provided on the exit ramp post to allow attachment thereof onto the screen bucket upper edge, for a removable but fixed engagement of the exit ramp with the screen bucket.

Abstract: A hot tub cover and enclosure which, when in a closed position, forms a waterproof cover for a hot tub and a sloping surface to shed snow and water, and when in an open position, provides privacy screening and wind protection. The side walls of the hot tub cover and enclosure are individually self-supporting, so that any side wall or combination of side walls may remain on the hot tub in a closed position, or any number of side walls may be placed in an open position or removed from the hot tub, without need for support from neighboring side walls. The side walls attach to the hot tub using a detachable hinging mechanism.

Abstract: An ice rink and an aquatic facility are combined into a single multi-purpose recreational facility. A new ice rink can be created or an existing ice rink can be modified. This multi-purpose recreational facility also permits the shared design, use, infrastructure and cost. The multi-purpose facility has modular components that can be added within the rink structure to create lazy rivers, islands, lap pools, bridges, decks, splash areas, water parks, slides and play features. A rink base may be adapted to support both a layer of ice and water. Furthermore, a membrane can be incorporated into the floor and rink boards to create an impervious tank for the water. The rink dasher board or wall system and gates can be modified to create a sealed enclosure which can withstand the force from the static and dynamic loads (water, people, equipment, decking, etc.). The wall may also be adapted to provide a means and support for the pool water recirculation system.

Abstract: A pool for supporting a table and chairs within a volume of water. The inventive device includes a bottom panel having a perimeter sidewall projecting upwardly therefrom. A central sidewall is concentrically positioned relative to the perimeter sidewall and projects from the bottom wall and about a central aperture directed therethrough. An anchor is positioned within the central wall for receiving an umbrella post to permit central positioning of a table and radially spaced positioning of chairs within the pool.

Abstract: A backyard toy includes an elongated slide sheet terminating in a pool. Inflatable side wall is on the pool form a serpentine pathway through the pool so that a child sliding on the slide follows a zig zag path through said pool. A sprayer is provided to wet the slide and make the surface slick.

Abstract: Floor structures that are erected on a temporary basis on ground so that they can be removed and not do permanent damage to the environment. In one embodiment a frame is mounted on poles that are staked into the ground. The floor has sections that extend between sides of the frame and are connected together to move in unison to be extended for use and retracted for storage. Such extension and retraction may be motorized. In another embodiment a glass floor structure bridges a pool and steps provide access for people.

Abstract: A water exercise device made up of a closed loop track, a soaking pool and a channel providing a walking path therebetween. The water depth is generally uniform in depth to provide running and walking exercise but deeper areas may be provided to require swimming in a part of the track and total immersion in the soaking pool. A constant water flow rate is maintained in the track and a temperature gradient may be maintained between the track and the soaking pool to provide temperatures appropriate for different activity levels by a user.

Abstract: An apparatus including a container to include side walls and a floor, with a drain directed through the floor to a drainage conduit, with a fluid conduit directed into a fluid manifold, wherein the fluid manifold is mounted to the container, with apertures projecting into the container to permit washing of an individual's feet positioned within the container. A valve structure is provided to effect actuation of water through the fluid conduit to be utilized as a manually manipulatable valve, or as a lever arranged to displace a piston within a valve housing permitting fluid flow into the manifold.

Abstract: A removable support apparatus for supporting a swimming pool cover employs adjustable frame assemblies capable of spanning between opposite edges at opposite sides of the pool. Each frame assembly includes a pair of separate frame members placed in side-by-side relation to one another so that together they define the overall length of the frame assembly. The frame members are displacable longitudinally relative to one another to adjust the overall length of the frame assembly to match the distance between the opposite edges of the pool so that the frame assembly can fit across the pool between its opposite edges. Each frame assembly also includes an end support member attached to the outer end of each frame member and supporting the frame member from one of the opposite edges of the pool.

Abstract: A swimming pool producing surrounding visual effects utilizes large picture generating surfaces adjacent to water-containing surfaces for displaying large images emulative of remote swimming environments. The pool has controllable water currents for in-place swimming or diving in one or more directions. These controlled water currents and the large images are coordinated by a computer for producing a virtual underwater environment in which picture scenes evolve and water-currents flow as a function of swimmer activity. A large apparent swimming area can therefore be produced. For added realism, the pool may include sound-generating devices and parametric weather machines to accurately emulate natural environments and also produce spectacular special effects for the swimming or diving subject and for possible observers thereof.

Abstract: A truck bed insert is arranged of unitary construction complementarily being received within a pickup truck bed. A drain opening is arranged to permit draining of water directed into the insert subsequent to use. A modified aspect of the invention includes a pneumatic conduit directed about an intersection of the floor and side walls of the insert having nozzles directed into the insert cavity, with an impeller housing arranged for mounting to the pickup exhaust pipe to direct aeration into the insert during use.

Abstract: An automatic foot washer for being located on a treadable surface and including, in its most preferred embodiment, a hollow frame structure which rests on the treadable surface, bounds a central open area, and defines both a hollow inner space and a plurality of spray outlets extending into the hollow inner space, a valve assembly which is connected to the hollow frame structure, extends into the hollow inner space, and includes both a supply connector for connection to a pressurized water source and a flexible valve hose, a grated actuating platform which is located within the central open area and rests partially on the treadable surface, and an actuator lever which is mounted to the actuator platform and operatively contacts the flexible valve hose to, when a person steps on the actuator platform, open the valve assembly and establish communication of the pressurized water source with the hollow inner space and the plurality of spray outlets to spray water through the plurality of spray holes over the grat

Abstract: A device for use in conjunction with a spa cover or spa cover mounted for pivotal movement to facilitate the removal of the cover away from the vicinity of the spa or spa when same is in use. In one embodiment, a bridge arm supported by two side arms is pivotally attached to a base. The bridge arm can be pivoted into position adjacent the spa cover. The spa cover folded over the bridge arm, and the bridge arm, along with the supported cover, is pivoted clearly away from the spa or spa area. In an alternate embodiment, a step elbow is provided near the point of pivotal attachment to the spa or spa to facilitate a step assisted pivoting and to provide a pivotal stop.

Abstract: The water walker is a collapsible exercise device with a waterproof liner supported by an external frame which is made rigid and stable when extended. The height is readily extendable to suit the needs of the user and is adapted to be filled with water to permit the user to perform a variety of exercises in an environment of high resistance and low impact.

Abstract: Apparatus for converting a swimming pool into a skating rink and preserving the structural integrity of the pool, the pool comprising a water basin having a rim extending around the top edge of the basin, the basin being filled with water up to a predetermined level below the rim, the apparatus comprising a plurality of impact resistant cornices overlying the rim and extending around the circumference of the pool in sequential array; each cornice comprising a top plate overlying the top edge of the pool and a flange plate attached to and extending the length of the forward edge of the top plate, the flange plate extending downwardly into the basin a predetermined level below the surface of the water within the basin; the cornices being sequentially arranged around the rim of the pool such that the left side of the flange plate of each cornice is aligned substantially parallel to and closely adjacent to the right side of the flange plate of each immediately adjacent cornice.

Abstract: A modular assembly for use in a swimming pool is described. This assembly integrates the technical components and accessories for swimming pools, including at least one stair, a horizontal submerged bathing portion capable of supporting a user while sitting or lying, a filtration vat enclosing a water filtration system for filtering water to and from the swimming pool into and out of the modular assembly, and a technical vat enclosing a system for pumping and water recycling for pumping and recycling water between the swimming pool and the modular assembly. The assembly of the present invention can also include additional accessories such as a foot bath, a bathing therapy system, a countercurrent swimming system, a submerged lighting system, and a shower. The entire module includes connections for water intake and water discharge for passage of water to and from the swimming pool, and electrical power connections for accessing electrical power.

Abstract: A therapeutic vibratory bath with a containment chamber for receipt of fluid medium and the individual to be bathed, such chamber having in one embodiment a plurality of vibration-producing devices arrayed around the chamber, such arrays disposed at a plurality of levels, the operation of which vibrators is performed in a sequence to produce a desired vibrational pattern in the medium around the individual being bathed.

Abstract: A retaining ring of an eyeball return fitting of the type used in swimming pools and spas is provided with a releasable or breakaway cover cap. The cap closes the end of the return fitting during construction. This permits the finish work for the cement and plaster stages of the pool construction to be effected without the danger of cement or plaster getting into the fitting during construction. After construction has been completed, the cap is released and drops away, carrying with it any cement or plaster which may have hardened on it during construction.

Abstract: A retaining ring of an eyeball return fitting of the type used in swimming pools and spas is provided with a releaseable or breakaway cover cap. The cap closes the end of the return fitting during construction. This permits the finish work for the cement and plaster stages of the pool construction to be effected without the danger of cement or plaster getting into the fitting during construction. After construction has been completed, the cap is released and drops away, carrying with it any cement or plaster which may have hardened on it during construction.

Abstract: An apparatus for exercising and massaging a human, a horse or other animal comprises a tank containing a pool of water, a plurality of water massage jets in the sidewalls of the tank, a cage for retaining the person, horse or animal, a treadmill positioned at the bottom of the case, so that the horse runs on the treadmill while at the same time being treated with a water turbulence massage from the water jet nozzles, and a scissor-like lift device for raising and lowering the treadmill in the pool.

Abstract: The splash or landing pool of a water slide has an entry zone of substantially increased depth relative to conventional splash pools and a shallow exit zone leading from the entry zone. The entry zone is provided with a false floor at a depth such that a child can walk thereacross, the false floor being a close mesh net which can safely decelerate an adult who has improperly entered the pool from the slide.

Abstract: Apparatus for converting a swimming pool into a skating rink and preserving the structural integrity of the pool, the pool comprising a water basin having a rim extending around the top edge of the basin, the basin being filled with water up to a predetermined level below the rim, the apparatus comprising a plurality of impact resistant cornices overlying the rim and extending around the circumference of the pool in sequential array; each cornice comprising a top plate overlying the top edge of the pool and a flange plate attached to and extending the length of the forward edge of the top plate, the flange plate extending downwardly into the basin a predetermined level below the surface of the water within the basin; the cornices being sequentially arranged around the rim of the pool such that the left side of the flange plate of each cornice is aligned substantially parallel to and closely adjacent to the right side of the flange plate of each immediately adjacent cornice.

Abstract: A recreational water craft useable as a vehicle and as a swimming facility has first and second floatable components, the first having a deck supported by a pair of compartmented pontoons. The compartments have water and air inlet and discharge facilities and are adapted for flooding and blowing by connection with a control system that includes a pressurized air source and valves for pressurizing and bleeding air from the compartments so as to move the first component between a first position with the deck above water and a second position with the deck submerged. The second floatable component has a main floatable section with an annular pontoon that rests on the deck during the vehicle mode of use as when the first component is at the first position. The pontoon has a vertical opening and which surrounds the deck passenger area. A floatable aft section is pivotally connected to the main section and provides a mounting place for an outboard motor.

Abstract: An apparatus for converting a swimming pool into a skating rink and preserving the structural integrity of the pool, the pool comprising a water basin and a ledge extending around the top edge of the basin, the ledge protruding inwardly over the edge of the basin, the basin being filled with water up to a predetermined level below the ledge, the apparatus comprising a sheet completely overlying the ledge and the open top of the basin and extending downwardly into the basin to at least the predetermined level of the water in the basin such that the bottom of the sheet contacts essentially the entire surface of the water in the basin below and inside the ledge; the sheet extending downwardly into the basin and being filled above its top surface with water up to a predetermined level below the ledge; a plurality of impact resistant cornices overlying the sheet and the ledge and extending around the circumference of the pool in sequential array; each cornice comprising a trapezoidal plate overlying the ledge and

Abstract: In one exemplar embodiment, a contrast-healing water spa system is disclosed that includes a single monolithically formed tub having two approximately equal-sized chambers that are separated by an integrally formed insulated structural wall that will provide hot aerated water in one cabinet and cold quiet water in the other chamber. A hot water circulating pump withdraws water from the hot water chamber at a predetermined flow rate, and the water is then passed through a filter and heater before being injected into the hot water chamber through high-pressure injection ports. A cold water circulating pump withdraws water from the cold water chamber at a predetermined flow rate, and the water is then passed through a filter and cooled by a sidestream mounted chiller before being returned to the cold water chamber. A single ozone generator is interconnected between the cold and hot water lines to add disinfectant to both water circulating systems.

Abstract: There is disclosed a water-and/or sandbox construction comprising an integrally moulded body having side walls and inclined upper edges, the bottom of which is formed with shaped protrusions or recesses for releasable engagement with complementarily shaped mounting portions of stackable levelling members having slots formed in their sides, which function as support members of selective height for supporting, depositing or storing members adjacent the top surface of the product contained within the box at a distance from the periphery of the box.

Abstract: A playground structure includes a container for containing a playing medium with a substantially rigid cover having a slide thereon with the cover hinged to the container and including a plurality of further hinged panels for alternately folded covering of the container and unfolding into a playground shelter and slide. Ladders at the end of the slide and alongside the slide for providing access to the slide from ground level and from the container.

Abstract: A water slide includes a trough or tube having an entry end elevated with respect to a recovery end for conveying water and individuals from the entry end to the recovery end. A loading platform extends into a starting pool and is designed to allow easy and safe access from the rear and both sides to provide entry to the trough. The flow of water into the starting pool or reservoir cascades over and onto the loading platform and then into the trough in a steady manner. Steps are provided into this pool to allow access to the loading platform. At the recovery end of the trough, an elongated recovery ramp is provided to allow exit off the water slide at a variety of positions.

Abstract: A vertically adjustable pool platform, for use in a swimming pool, means to vertically raise and lower the platform, and means connecting the platform to the means to vertically raise and lower the platform, the pool platform being buoyant to float on the surface of the water, and be constantly urged to float to the surface of the water, when submerged under water at a predetermined level, and the platform permits vertical passage of water therethrough.

Abstract: Tile construction for a swimming pool comprising an elongated tubular member having a longitudinal channel therein which can be filled with insulation material. The tubular member can have further separate channels with a plurality of orifices extending into the further channels and opening externally of the member. The orifices provide communication between the further channels and the exterior of the tubular member. The tubular member has a flat outer surface and the orifices open in the vicinity of the flat outer surface. A plurality of tubular members can be used to form the wall or bottom of the pool or a deck for the pool. The tubular member can have flanges with additional channels therein isolated from the other channels and which may or may not be provided with orifices for fluid flow. The tubular member can be constructed from a transparent resin material and the additional channels can have a liquid crystal coating for changing color with temperature change.

Abstract: Tile construction for a swimming pool comprising an elongated tubular extruded member having a longitudinal channel therein, and provided with a plurality of orifices extending into the channel and opening externally of the member. The orifices provide communication between the channel and the exterior of the tubular member. The tubular member has a flat outer surface and the orifices open in the vicinity of the flat outer surface. The tubular member can extend lengthwise along the pool so as to form a lane. A plurality of adjacent parallel lanes can be provided for racing purposes. A pump is connected to the channel for circulating overflow water back into the pool via the channel and the orifices in the tubular member. A plurality of tubular members can be used to form the wall or bottom of the pool or a deck for the pool for receiving overflow water to recirculate the water back to the pool.