Air Inflatable Or Supported Patents (Class 4/499)
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Patent number: 11891837Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, which comprises a cover, a set of frame segments, and a set of foam segments. The cover has a circular cross section. The cover defines a set of spaced slots disposed around an outer circumference of the cover. The set of frame segments is coupleable to the outer circumference of the cover.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2022Date of Patent: February 6, 2024Inventor: Franklin Lloyd Porter
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Patent number: 11814866Abstract: A protective pool assembly for protecting a pool from external debris or contamination. The protective pool assembly comprises a flexible cover and a bladder. The flexible cover comprises a top layer configured to resist weather. The flexible cover is attached to or rests on and protects the bladder. The bladder rests on a bottom layer of the flexible cover, or directly on the surface of the water. The bladder is inflatable via an air valve to expand the bladder in a dome-like shape. The flexible cover is pushed upward into the dome-like shape so that external debris, rain, snow, and ice shed off of the flexible cover. A skirt extends from a perimeter of the flexible cover to further direct the debris or contaminates over the side of the pool. A plurality of securing elements are used to secure the protective pool assembly in place over the pool.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2021Date of Patent: November 14, 2023Inventor: Aaron Hockenberry
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Patent number: 11026373Abstract: A method for pressurizing an assembly line grow pod system is provided. The method includes arranging a dual wall including an outer wall and an inner wall, controlling, with an air pressure controller, first air pressure in the first sealed area and second air pressure in the second sealed area, and controlling, with a master controller, operations of the air pressure controller. The first air pressure of the first sealed area is controlled to be higher than pressure of an exterior area to the outer wall by a predetermined amount.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2018Date of Patent: June 8, 2021Assignee: Grow Solutions Tech LLCInventors: Gary Bret Millar, Mark Gerald Stott, Michael Stephen Hurst
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Patent number: 10927520Abstract: Disclosed is an improved flexible flood barrier system for creating a watertight barrier. The system includes a novel hinged clamping bar assembly configured to engage a hem of the fabric flood barrier. The fabric flood barrier is comprised of a waterproof layer reinforced with Kevlar straps. The Kevlar straps are weaved together through slots in one of the layers without the need for stitching upon any of the waterproof layers. When deployed the improved fabric flood barrier system prevents storm surges from breaching the flexible flood barrier system at the attachment points.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2020Date of Patent: February 23, 2021Assignee: Mooring Manufacturing LLCInventor: Robert G. Caputo
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Patent number: 10920438Abstract: In one preferred form there is provide a pool cover arrangement (10) comprising: a body (12) having a first set of cells (24) and a second set of cells (26). The first set of cells (24) provide a first area (35) for floating on water. The first area (35) comprises the forward facing areas (27) of the first set of cells (24). The second set of cells (26) are spaced away from the forward facing areas (27), so as to sit above the water, when the first set of cells (24) sit on the water. In other preferred forms ventilation holes and layers are provided.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2017Date of Patent: February 16, 2021Assignee: ALOI GROUP PTY LTDInventor: Nicholas Aloi
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Patent number: 10662668Abstract: The present invention relates to an insect repellant tent. The an insect repellant tent comprises a frame structure comprising a base ring comprised to a plurality of ring sections, a plurality of poles connectable to the plurality of ring sections, a plurality of connectors for connecting the plurality of ring sections with the plurality of poles, wherein the connector comprises a connector means and a handle means, wherein the connector means is configured to receive the plurality of ring sections, the pole, and the handle section, a top cap to which the plurality of poles connect while extending from the plurality of connectors, wherein the plurality of ring sections, the top cap, the plurality of poles, and the plurality of connectors define a dome like structure in an assembled configuration thereof. The tent further comprises at least one floatation means provided on the plurality of ring sections, and an insect repellant sheet for covering frame structure.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2019Date of Patent: May 26, 2020Inventors: Kim Hansen, Demian Nelson
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Patent number: 9511298Abstract: A water slide for connection to a water supply is provided. The inflatable structure may include a sliding surface having a first end and an opposing second end, an inflatable wedge-shaped ramp coupled to the first end of the sliding surface, where the ramp includes a top surface, and a landing portion coupled to the second end of the sliding surface. A water emitting device is coupled to the sliding surface, where the water emitting device is adapted to project water onto the ramp to lubricate the top surface while a user slides thereon.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2015Date of Patent: December 6, 2016Assignee: Bestway Inflatables & Material Corp.Inventors: Peter A. Sgromo, Robert W. Ranftl
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Patent number: 9353540Abstract: A cover device for a swimming pool is disclosed that effectively keeps out debris including leaves, branches, or even small animals, and helps trap heat underneath the cover saving users the cost of a pool heater. The cover device comprises a flexible member that can be folded up for storage when deflated. Once the flexible member is substantially inflated, the exterior surface forms a generally convex shape which allows the flexible member to float on and cover substantially an entire surface of the swimming pool. The cover device further comprises a plurality of handles secured around a perimeter of the flexible member, and a skirt secured below the plurality of handles. The skirt is inflated and weighted, such that the skirt retains the flexible member on the surface of the swimming pool, sealing the swimming pool.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2013Date of Patent: May 31, 2016Inventor: Joseph Jennings
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Patent number: 9127471Abstract: A spa cover is described that is comprised of a plurality of inflatable drop stitch bladders and a slipcover comprising a plurality of separate chambers. Each chamber corresponds to a respective one of the plurality of inflatable bladders, and each chamber is constructed to house a corresponding one of the inflatable bladders therein. The slipcover has a hinge between at least two separate chambers.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2014Date of Patent: September 8, 2015Assignee: ROBERTS MANUFACTURING LLCInventors: Jerry Greer, Robert Ghelerter, Justin Jobe
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Patent number: 9097029Abstract: An ice-compensating cover including: a cover; a float; and a separable fastener interposed between the cover and the float, the separable fastener including a first portion adhesively bonded to the cover, and a second portion adhesively bonded to the float, wherein at least one of the first portion and the second portion defines a first opening in a center of the at least one of the first portion and the second portion.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2013Date of Patent: August 4, 2015Inventors: Anthony N. Oropallo, Wesley C. Clark
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Patent number: 9057203Abstract: A swimming pool lane line support apparatus includes a first end portion, defining a first guide member, a second end portion, defining a second guide member, and a central portion including a smooth, curved surface. The first guide member, second guide member and curved surface define a lane line channel adapted to support and contain a swimming pool lane line. Furthermore, the swimming pool lane line support apparatus is adapted to securely fit in a peripheral gutter system of a swimming pool.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2012Date of Patent: June 16, 2015Inventor: Peter J. Butterfield
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Publication number: 20150059079Abstract: Liquid covering disks configured to float on the surface of a body of liquid, including a body with an aperture at a periphery of the body, the aperture configured to allow a liquid to pass through, a plurality of ribs projecting from the body, and a wall protruding at the periphery of the body. A portion of the body, a portion of the plurality of ribs, and a portion of the wall define a cavity allowing a volume of a gas to be trapped in the cavity when the disk is deployed on the surface of the body of liquid. In some examples, a system of floating disks covers the surface of a body of liquid. Each disk includes an interlocking element configured to interact with a complementary interlocking element at an adjacent disk to form a floating arrangement of disks.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2013Publication date: March 5, 2015Inventor: Matt Alirol
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Publication number: 20150026878Abstract: Provided herein is a frameless cover for enclosing a spa or pool comprising an inflatable member capable of providing rigidity without joined or crisscrossed structural parts, wherein the inflatable member overlays the spa or pool. Also provided herein is a kit for transporting and/or carrying the frameless, inflatable spa or pool cover.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2014Publication date: January 29, 2015Inventor: Jeffrey Daniel Rambo
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Publication number: 20140366260Abstract: A pool cover that is adapted to rest directly on the surface of the pool water is provided. The present pool cover consists of a series of planar panels composed of transparent, durable plastic material and a flotation portion disposed about the periphery of the panels. The set of panels are preferably connected together by straps with hook and loop fastener material or other such connectors. When connected together, the plurality of panels form a single contiguous unit that is adapted to cover the entire surface area of a pool. The present pool cover is superior to conventional pool covers because it is adapted to bear weight, preventing children and pets from falling into the pool through the cover and becoming entangled in the collapsed flexible material.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2014Publication date: December 18, 2014Inventor: Pete Blaschick
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Publication number: 20140020171Abstract: A cover device for a swimming pool is disclosed that effectively keeps out debris including leaves, branches, or even small animals, and helps trap heat underneath the cover saving users the cost of a pool heater. The cover device comprises a flexible member that can be folded up for storage when deflated. Once the flexible member is substantially inflated, the exterior surface forms a generally convex shape which allows the flexible member to float on and cover substantially an entire surface of the swimming pool. The cover device further comprises a plurality of handles secured around a perimeter of the flexible member, and a skirt secured below the plurality of handles. The skirt is inflated and weighted, such that the skirt retains the flexible member on the surface of the swimming pool, sealing the swimming pool.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2013Publication date: January 23, 2014Inventor: Joseph Jennings
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Publication number: 20140013500Abstract: An ice-compensating cover including: a cover; a float; and a separable fastener interposed between the cover and the float, the separable fastener including a first portion adhesively bonded to the cover, and a second portion adhesively bonded to the float, wherein at least one of the first portion and the second portion defines a first opening in a center of the at least one of the first portion and the second portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2013Publication date: January 16, 2014Inventors: Anthony N. Oropallo, Wesley C. Clark
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Patent number: 8578524Abstract: Various aspects are directed to a spa cover lifter for lifting a spa cover comprising a first section and a second section pivotably coupled to the first section at a hinge interface. The lifter may comprise a first frame member, a second frame member, a drive system and a first cable. The first frame member may be coupled to the first section of the spa cover. The second frame member may be coupled to the second section of the spa cover, and the first and second frame members may be coupled to one another about the hinge interface. The first cable may extend from the drive mechanism to the first frame member.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2009Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Nerok LLCInventor: George F Koren
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Patent number: 8371321Abstract: A free floating canopy shade system for use in a pool or at a beach. The canopy has four legs each leg supported by an open top float, each float having an outer tapered cylindrical wall and an inner cylindrical wall, the inner cylindrical wall being sized to receive a leg, an attachment to attach the leg to the float. The float being water tight and open at the top. Wherein an open shaded area is created beneath the canopy bounded only on four corners by each float.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2010Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Inventor: Dennis R. Affolter
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Patent number: 8347876Abstract: A soft, flexible, floating temperature regulating and evaporation reducing cover for a pool generally comprises an independently inflatable outer ring and central portion. Holes through the central portion permit egress of air from under the central portion when the cover is placed on water. Valves for chamber and cavity are located near one edge such that the cover may be deflated by rolling from an edge opposite the valves. Top and bottom films are adapted to absorb or reflect solar radiation to heat or cool the pool as desired. Magnets on the ring condition water and attach to similar floating covers to form rafts. For holding the cover in a pool during winds, the ring can be inflated with water or in an alternate embodiment, water anchors fill with water.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2006Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Inventors: Richard C. Rosene, Lora J. Rosene
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Publication number: 20120246818Abstract: An inflatable pool cover for protecting a swimming pool from falling objects and settling airborne debris. The pool cover has a flexible top layer secured to a flexible, bowl-shaped lower portion. Air is inserted between the top layer and lower portion via an air valve. When the device is inflated the layers swell, resulting in a convex dome. The top layer extends outward from its connection to the lower portion and into a plurality of skirt flaps with reinforced loops or channels. A securing strap is threaded through the reinforced loops and has a cinch means for tightening or loosening the strap. Once the pool cover is in position in a swimming pool, air is inserted and the securing strap is cinched tightly around the sidewalls of the pool. Debris or falling objects that land on the cover will roll off the domed top layer and onto the ground.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2012Publication date: October 4, 2012Inventor: Steve Dautrich
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Publication number: 20120204339Abstract: An inflatable pillow for a pool closure system including a first side surface, forming a substantially vertical plane, a first riser surface, the first riser surface substantially vertically oriented, a top surface, the top surface having a first edge and a second edge, wherein the side surface is connected to the top surface at the first edge, wherein the first riser surface is connected to the top surface at the second edge, the second edge extending substantially horizontally, and wherein the top surface is curved such that the first edge resembles an arc extending both vertically and horizontally.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2011Publication date: August 16, 2012Inventor: Michael GEIGER
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Patent number: 8201285Abstract: The pool covering system provides an effective way of protecting a swimming pool from dirt and debris. The system includes an inflatable, dome shaped body and attached outer most layer configured to rest atop an existing swimming pool, repelling dirt, debris, water and snow, thus preventing this debris from collecting within the pool or on top of a liner. A bladder inflating mechanism is provided for selectively introducing air into the body such that the body maintains a dome shape and urges the fluid and debris away from the top surface of the pool. Passageways are provided inside the bladder for evenly distributing air therein and overcoming a weight of water and debris resting on the outer most layer.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2009Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Inventors: Gennaro Pugliese, Domenic Pugliese
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Publication number: 20120137422Abstract: The present invention provides a pool cover support system for installing a pool cover without touching the water in the pool. In one embodiment of the present invention, the system includes a flotation device including a frame extending upwardly from a base of the flotation device. The perimeter of the frame can be attached with a plurality of attachment cords to the outside ledge of the pool. Clips at one end of the attachment cords can be used for expeditiously attaching the frame to the ledge of the pool. The attachment cords and the frame can be used to support a light weight pool cover.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 30, 2011Publication date: June 7, 2012Inventor: Russell W. Winters
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Publication number: 20120011648Abstract: A swimming pool having a cover is provided, wherein the air located inside the cover can be conditioned. In order to achieve conditions corresponding to high altitude training, the air space inside the cover is connected to an air generator, by way of which the composition of the air can be adjusted and/or changed.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2011Publication date: January 19, 2012Inventor: Georg HOF
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Patent number: 8069504Abstract: An inflatable domed pool bladder for use when winterizing swimming pools is herein disclosed, comprising a large inflatable bladder which covers the entire pool surface wherein a center of the dome is higher than the sides. In this manner when a conventional pool cover is installed over the bladder, it is kept above the level of the side walls of the swimming pool and any rain, snow, leaves or other debris are unable to accumulate. The bladder prevents water from pooling on the cover, reducing the risk of drowning by young children or pets. Also, a potential cost savings results from improved water retention efficiency within the swimming pool.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2009Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Inventor: William C. Greenfield, Jr.
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Patent number: 8015631Abstract: A safety enclosure cover for a portable air-inflatable swimming pool includes a mat spread on a horizontal surface, with the inflatable pool resting on the mat. An outer rim of the mat extends beyond an outer wall of the inflatable pool. Water is filled into the inflatable pool so that an inflated holding pillow floats on an upper surface of said water. A cover encloses the inflatable pool and the floating holding pillow. An outer edge of the cover is attached to an outer edge of the mat whereby the water and inflatable pool are completely enclosed, so that the floating pillow pushes up on the inside of the cover, thereby the cover is formed into a convex shape so that rainwater is shed from the convexly-shaped cover.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2009Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Pool Cover CorporationInventor: LeeAnn Pesta
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Patent number: 7971286Abstract: A modular occupant bench unit for use in a swimming pool formed from a plurality of contiguous modular wall panels joined end-to-end to define a pool enclosure having a vertical perimeter wall includes a vertical wall having opposite ends adapted to be joined with contiguous wall panels and being substantially coplanar with the vertical walls of the wall panels and an elongate bench protruding from the vertical wall between the top and bottom thereof into the pool substantially beyond the plane formed by the vertical wall of the pool, the upper side of the bench defining an occupant seating area and the underside being spaced from the floor of the pool. A plurality of hydrotherapy jets are spaced apart along the vertical wall above the upper side of said bench and below the water line of the swimming pool.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2008Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignee: Fox Pool CorporationInventors: William A. Dillen, II, Robert E. Seitz
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Patent number: 7874023Abstract: A system and method for an inflatable swimming pool cover that is elevated above the water line, particularly for above ground pools, is herein disclosed. The cover is configured with a donut-shaped air pillow around a higher center air pillow. The donut-shaped air pillow maintains the cover above the levels of the pool sidewalls such that rain, snow, leaves and the like are directed off the pool cover to the ground, thus eliminating unwanted debris from accumulating on the cover. Further, since no water can collect on the pool cover, the risk of drowning by young children or pets that may accidentally be trapped upon or within the pool cover is significantly reduced. The two air pillows are interconnected with a tube structure and also an air filling tube that extends to the side of the pool to allow the air pillows to be filled or refilled from the perimeter. A plurality of straps secures the pillows in place to the underside of the pool cover.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2007Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Inventor: Andy P. Sundling
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Publication number: 20100235979Abstract: A safety enclosure cover for a portable air-inflatable swimming pool includes a mat spread on a horizontal surface, with the inflatable pool resting on the mat. An outer rim of the mat extends beyond an outer wall of the inflatable pool. Water is filled into the inflatable pool so that an inflated holding pillow floats on an upper surface of said water. A cover encloses the inflatable pool and the floating holding pillow. An outer edge of the cover is attached to an outer edge of the mat whereby the water and inflatable pool are completely enclosed, so that the floating pillow pushes up on the inside of the cover, thereby the cover is formed into a convex shape so that rainwater is shed from the convexly-shaped cover.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 23, 2009Publication date: September 23, 2010Inventor: LeeAnn Pesta
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Publication number: 20100088815Abstract: A blanket of many floats of like configuration and each incorporating a polygonal parametrical rims housing a plurality of radial spokes configured to, in alternate axial relationship, form cells closed at the respective one ends and opening axially at their respective opposite ends. The system of the present of invention includes plumbing with a series of water jets for generating a current to flow fluid in a controlled fashion from and to a storage tank to selectively deploy and retrieve the floats.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2008Publication date: April 15, 2010Inventor: John M. Gregg
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Publication number: 20100083436Abstract: An apparatus and method used in conjunction with a swimming pool cover for covering and uncovering a swimming pool to reduce or prevent standing water, dirt or debris from entering the pool when uncovering the pool. The apparatus includes a buoyant support member, and inflatable/deflatable bladder attached to the support member and a conduit for providing a fluid used to inflate and deflate the bladder. In operation, inflation of the bladder raises the pool cover above the pool deck, railing or peripheral edge whereby standing water, dirt or debris can be removed or washed from the cover prior to removing the cover from the pool.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 2, 2008Publication date: April 8, 2010Inventor: Dale W. Wiegand
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Publication number: 20100058529Abstract: A swimming pool covering device includes a pool covering member manufactured from a first predetermined material and having a first predetermined size and a first predetermined shape and including at least one inflatable compartment disposed therein. A first valve is operably connected to such pool covering member at a predetermined location for enabling communication of air into and out of such at least one inflatable compartment. A securing mechanism is disposed at predetermined locations closely adjacent a perimeter of such pool covering member for securing such pool covering member in place over an open top portion of a swimming pool.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2009Publication date: March 11, 2010Inventor: VAUGHN D. DECKER
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Publication number: 20100058530Abstract: A device for forming a walkable floor, for instance above a swimming pool, has elements that may be assembled to be movable between a first position, in which the floor is situated above the swimming pool, and a second position in which the floor is situated adjacently of the swimming pool. The elements are mutually separated by separating surfaces extending substantially transversely of the direction movement, and wherein the elements can be mutually coupled by couplings adapted to transmit pulling and pushing forces in the direction of movement, wherein the couplings are adapted to prevent a relative movement in the direction transversely of the direction of movement.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2008Publication date: March 11, 2010Inventor: Johannes Gommert van Der Klooster
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Patent number: 7603727Abstract: A floating spa cover generally comprises an inflatable insulating and soar heating central portion surrounded by one or more independently inflatable adjustable rings. The inflatable central portion comprises a center section and a peripheral ring. The center section covers most of the spa water surface and includes an upper film of substantially transparent plastic and a lower film of translucent plastic separated by a gas-filled space. The first adjustable ring, connected to the central portion so as to be selectively removable, encompasses the central portion and is independently inflatable to selectively adjust the area of the cover over a first range of areas. The second adjustable ring, connected to the first adjustable ring so as to be selectively removable, encompasses the first adjustable ring and is independently inflatable to selectively adjust the area of the cover over a second range of areas.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2006Date of Patent: October 20, 2009Inventors: Richard C. Rosene, Lora J. Rosene
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Publication number: 20090158517Abstract: An assembly includes an inflatable, dome-like cover that is configured to rest atop an existing swimming pool. The cover has an inflatable portion that repels dirt, debris, water, and snow, preventing such debris from collecting thereon. The cover is produced from heavy duty, yet lightweight plastic or rubber material. The cover may sized and configured to fit a pool of any dimensions. Extending along a perimeter of the inflatable portion is a border about which openings are evenly spaced, through which tethers or cords may be tied for securing the assembly to the pool. At least one air valve is positioned proximal to the outer edge of the cover, enabling a user to inflate the assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2009Publication date: June 25, 2009Inventors: Donald William Herd, Margaret Jean Herd
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Publication number: 20080222786Abstract: Pool covers embodying the invention are formed of a very dense mesh material which ensures substantially one hundred percent shade while allowing water to pass uniformly through the cover and which is adequately strong to support the weight of an adult. The pool cover is formed of plastic fibers which are interwoven to form a dense mesh which is then subjected to a pressure and heat cycle to ensure that the resultant material has the requisite properties for allowing water to pass through at a desired rate (e.g., 0.1 to 5 gallons per square foot per minute) while blocking light (e.g., 100% shade). Thus, a self-filtering safety pool cover is formed which allows for water to pass through uniformly across its surface while blocking sunlight.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2008Publication date: September 18, 2008Applicant: Merlin Industries, Inc.Inventors: James Zell, Andrew Maggion
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Publication number: 20070271692Abstract: An assembly includes an inflatable, dome-like cover that is configured to rest atop an existing swimming pool. The cover has an inflatable portion that repels dirt, debris, water, and snow, preventing such debris from collecting thereon. The cover is produced from heavy duty, yet lightweight plastic or rubber material. The cover may sized and configured to fit a pool of any dimensions. Extending along a perimeter of the inflatable portion is a border about which openings are evenly spaced, through which tethers or cords may be tied for securing the assembly to the pool. At least one air valve is positioned proximal to the outer edge of the cover, enabling a user to inflate the assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2007Publication date: November 29, 2007Inventors: Donald William Herd, Margaret Jean Herd
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Patent number: 6694539Abstract: A pool cover for use with pools is disclosed. The apparatus is a pool cover which comprises a centrally located bubble, a series of branches that would be connected to the centrally located bubble, and a series of cover sections that would be located in between the series of branches. The bubble would be designed to be centrally located on the cover and would be inflatable. The branches would serve as a skeletal framework and would also be used to removably tie down or attach the pool cover to the structure of the pool or to external securing objects.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2003Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Inventors: Randall Kordell, Nancy Kordell
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Patent number: 6637046Abstract: A heat retaining swimming pool cover (1) is floatable on pool water (2) in a swimming pool (3) and has a plastic upper film (5) for facing toward the atmosphere (6), a plastic lower film (8) for facing toward the pool water (2), sufficient spaced apart air pockets (10) configured into the lower film (8) for containing air such that the cover (1) is floatable on the pool water (2), and sealed land areas (11) between the air pockets (10) such that the upper and lower films (5,8) are sealed to each other. The lower film (8) contains an infrared absorbent effective amount of an infrared absorbent but which amount is insufficient to prevent sunlight (14) from substantially penetrating the lower film (8) and passing into the pool water (2).Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2003Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Assignee: Cantar/Polyair CorporationInventor: Chris Bartlett
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Patent number: 6574804Abstract: The invention concerns an inflatable grille, whereof the numerous openings are provided with open-worked netting, capable of being spaced apart and locked for rescuing in an aquatic environment someone stuck beneath the device to move onto the device and to clean the floor of a swimming pool more easily by inserting the vacuum cleaner in the netting openings which are capable of being spaced apart and locked. Said grille is associated with hoisting means adapted to the environment wherein it operates and in swimming pools with slide rails having a non-return system which blocks the device in high position.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2002Date of Patent: June 10, 2003Inventor: Claire-Lise Boujon
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Patent number: 6539559Abstract: An anti-litter float or balloon for a swimming pool. The single compartment balloon abuts continuously the containing wall, and the self-mooring balloon prevents litter from being disbursed into the pool water. Flaps and/or element-resistant covers can be used with the self-mooring single compartment balloon to batten down the swimming pool. The self-mooring single compartment float is sloped from the apex of its vertex downward toward the swimming pool's lip.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2001Date of Patent: April 1, 2003Inventors: Cathy L. Creech, Karen Whitaker
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Patent number: 6523190Abstract: A heat retaining swimming pool cover (1) is floatable on pool water (2) in a swimming pool (3) and has a plastic upper film (5) for facing toward the atmosphere (6), a plastic lower film (8) for facing toward the pool water (2), sufficient spaced apart air pockets (10) configured into the lower film (8) for containing air such that the cover (1) is floatable on the pool water (2), and sealed land areas (11) between the air pockets (10) such that the upper and lower films (5,8) are sealed to each other. The lower film (8) contains an infrared absorbent effective amount of an infrared absorbent but which amount is insufficient to prevent sunlight (14) from substantially penetrating the lower film (8) and passing into the pool water (2).Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2002Date of Patent: February 25, 2003Assignee: Cantar/Polyair CorporationInventor: Chris Bartlett
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Patent number: 6497533Abstract: A membrane cover is mounted at the surface of a wastewater reservoir. The membrane cover has a flexible buoyant impermeable membrane affixed to the perimeter walls of the reservoir and loosely laid over the wastewater level inside the reservoir. An array of weight lines is anchored to the perimeter walls and is loosely laid over the impermeable membrane. The array of weight lines defines a rectangular herringbone pattern. An array of drains is also provided. Each drain is disposed along one of the lateral weight lines. The membrane cover also comprises an array of troughs formed therein under the array of weight lines. A water ballast having the continuous herringbone pattern is contained within the troughs. Because of this water ballast, the membrane cover is kept taut and stable during a rainstorm and a surface thereof exposed to uplifting wind forces is minimized.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2002Date of Patent: December 24, 2002Inventor: Claude J. DeGarie
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Patent number: 6408453Abstract: An inflatable swimming pool assembly includes an inflatable swimming pool with a surrounding wall which confines an accommodation space and which terminates at an upper surrounding edge portion to define an opening. A flexible cover has an upper major wall to rest on the upper surrounding edge portion to cover the opening, and a flap portion to be pulled over to be disposed beyond, and outwardly and downwardly of the upper surrounding edge portion when the flexible cover is stretched. A flexible sheet member has a peripheral edge portion which is in sealing attachment to the upper major wall to confine an inflatable space therebetween to be inflated to stretch the flexible cover. An inflating valve is disposed to inflate or deflate the inflatable space.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2001Date of Patent: June 25, 2002Assignee: Aqua-Marine International Inc.Inventors: Rong-Jyh Song, Tsung-Ping Yen
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Patent number: 6374433Abstract: A moveable hot tub cover structure removably covers a hot tub and includes at least one rail structure mounted generally adjacent the hot tub and extending outwards therefrom and a rigid hot tub cover structure including at least two upright walls having bases and upper sections and a roof extending between and connecting the at least two upright walls adjacent upper sections thereof such that the roof is spaced from the bases of the upright walls to permit the rigid hot tub cover structure to enclose the hot tub and be used with the rigid hot tub cover structure thereon. At least two rail-engaging wheels are mounted on the rigid hot tub cover structure. The wheels are operative to rollably engage the rail structure.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2001Date of Patent: April 23, 2002Inventor: Daniel Gray
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Patent number: 6357964Abstract: A membrane cover is mounted at the surface of a wastewater reservoir. The membrane cover has a flexible buoyant impermeable membrane affixed to the perimeter walls of the reservoir and loosely laid over the wastewater level inside the reservoir. An array of weight lines is anchored to the perimeter walls and is loosely laid over the impermeable membrane. The array of weight lines defines a rectangular herringbone pattern. An array of drains is also provided. Each drain is disposed along one of the lateral weight lines. The membrane cover also comprises an array of troughs formed therein under the array of weight lines. A water ballast having the continuous herringbone pattern is contained within the troughs. Because of this water ballast, the membrane cover is kept taut and stable during a rainstorm and a surface thereof exposed to uplifting wind forces is minimized.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2000Date of Patent: March 19, 2002Inventor: Claude J. DeGarie
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Patent number: 6286155Abstract: An improved lightweight, multi-layer, reflective swimming pool cover containing two thermoplastic layers. The top layer has a dark-colored polyethylene film and the lower layer has a polyethylene film with a aluminum concentrate, or other suitable reflecting material, deposited thereon along the entire layer, thereby becoming a reflective surface. The layers are suitably bonded together to form a water and air tight seal so as to provide the cover with a reflective surface on which are integral reflective solar heating and insulative pockets configured in a predetermined spatial relationship to each other. The cover acts to continually reflect radiating heat back into the pool and provides an effective and enhanced insulation barrier against radiant heat loss from the pool.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1996Date of Patent: September 11, 2001Assignee: Midwest Canvas CorporationInventor: Gary Handwerker
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Patent number: 6286157Abstract: An inflatable cover for swimming pools comprising a pliable exterior sheet and a pliable interior sheet permanently affixed to one another around an outer periphery thereof. The exterior sheet includes an air inlet valve, which functions to allow air to be forced into a cavity formed within the exterior sheet and interior sheet for inflating the cover. The exterior sheet is larger in circumference than the interior sheet, allowing the exterior sheet to hang over a perimeter of a swimming pool, and further allowing the exterior sheet to engage a skirt member. The skirt member wraps around the perimeter of the pool and includes a plurality of apertures through which a strap is inserted. The skirt member further comprising a buckle which functions to allow tension of the strap to be adjusted, in total allowing a user to removably affix the inflatable cover to the swimming pool in a tight and secure manner.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2000Date of Patent: September 11, 2001Inventor: Brian Baumann
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Patent number: 6209150Abstract: A sun shade pool typically used by small children in an above-the-ground environment for use in the out-of-doors and method therefore is disclosed which is directed to an inflatable pool and a removable sun shade canopy mounted upon the inflatable pool for blocking direct sun light. The inflatable pool can be multiple-tiered in height and include a bottom wall. The removable sun shade canopy is attachable to and detachable from a top surface of the inflatable pool by a plurality of hook and loop fasteners. The sun shade pool can be fashioned from polyvinylchloride sheeting, include a plurality of inflation air valves for inflating the pool and canopy, and a drain plug for rapidly draining water from the pool. In its most fundamental embodiment, the sun shade pool exhibits a construction including an inflatable pool having a sidewall sealed to a bottom wall for containing a fluid. A removable sun shade canopy for covering a top surface of the inflatable pool is also included.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1999Date of Patent: April 3, 2001Assignee: Intex Recreation Corp.Inventors: Yaw-Yuan Hsu, Chin-Hsiang Pan, Kun Chao Hsu
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Patent number: 6119284Abstract: A floating pool cover support for suspending a pool cover above the surface of the water. The floating pool cover support includes a pair of spaced apart base members. A pair of float tubes surround the base members, each having a specific gravity less than that of water. Each of the base members has a first arm extending upwardly therefrom. A pair of angled members are coupled to the base members. A central portion is coupled to the angled members.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1999Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Inventor: Derek Cosman