Including Securing Means Patents (Class 4/503)
  • Patent number: 11851907
    Abstract: The innovation relates to a pool covering system that is usable as a flooring surface. The pool covering system includes brackets and support beams spanning the pool opening. The beams provide structural support to cross members and flooring placed on top of the beams. The pool covering system does not require significant drainage of the pool and does not damage the pool structure during installation and use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2023
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Assignee: Colhurst Concepts, LLC
    Inventors: Italia Marisol Ovalle, Luis Fernando Ramirez, Sherwood Noël Wagner
  • Patent number: 10676949
    Abstract: A pool cover spring includes a one piece molded spring body having a narrowed midsection, an end with a connector for attaching to a pool deck anchor and another end with slots for receiving a strap of a pool cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Dershem, Deborah L. Dershem
  • Patent number: 10619369
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Inventor: Margaret Jean Herd
  • Patent number: 9869104
    Abstract: A new swimming, wading and bathing pool that uses a camouflage pattern of layers to conceal debris, while helping the pool blend in to its environment. The camouflage pool is also used to conceal a person and or other objects wearing or covered in a similar camouflage pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Inventor: Joshua Capps
  • Patent number: 9624997
    Abstract: Provided is a pool spring cover having an elongate tubular member with openings on first and second sides, respectively. The first and second sides span a longitudinal axis. An attachment member extends generally along the longitudinal axis from a first portion of the second side to a free end. A fastener comprised of a first fastener element and a second fastener element is provided. The first fastener element is associated with the attachment member at the free end and the second fastener element is associated with the tubular member at a second portion of the second side. The first and second fastener elements are adapted to fasten to each other such that the attachment member forms a loop. The first fastener element and the second fastener element may form a one-time use fastener. Also provided are related systems and methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: MX4 Engineering LLC
    Inventor: Dean Marelli
  • Patent number: 9591797
    Abstract: A cover system for a storage pond formed using a liner is disclosed. A cover flap, a liner flap and an anchor flap are preassembled either off-site at a factory or on-site. The anchor flap is disposed in an anchor trench and the anchor trench is backfilled. The liner is deployed and the perimeter is welded to the liner flap. The cover is deployed and the perimeter is welded to the cover flap. The above welding is preferably fusion welding and could take place in any order.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Assignee: INDUSTRIAL & ENVIRONMENTAL CONCEPTS, INC.
    Inventors: Michael A. Morgan, Michael Sean Gallant
  • Patent number: 9027174
    Abstract: Provided is a pool spring cover having an elongate tubular member with openings on first and second sides, respectively. The first and second sides span a longitudinal axis. An attachment member extends generally along the longitudinal axis from a first portion of the second side to a free end. A fastener comprised of a first fastener element and a second fastener element is provided. The first fastener element is associated with the attachment member at the free end and the second fastener element is associated with the tubular member at a second portion of the second side. The first and second fastener elements are adapted to fasten to each other such that the attachment member forms a loop. The first fastener element and the second fastener element may form a one-time use fastener. Also provided are related systems and methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: MX4 Engineering LLC
    Inventor: Dean Marelli
  • Patent number: 8921242
    Abstract: A light weight, durable, easily recyclable pool cover includes a fabric covering with reinforcing and attachment straps wherein, the reinforcing and attachment straps are attached to said fabric in a criss-crossed pattern. The fabric covering and the straps are produced from a single polymer consisting of polypropylene. The pool cover is entirely recyclable at end of service life by chopping the pool cover components in a simple machine producing granules useful for injection molding of polypropylene products. The pool cover fabric is produced by subjecting three layers of polypropylene sheet material to heat and pressure forming a strong durable fabric wherein the top layer and bottom layer are a solid fabric and the middle layer is multi-filament mesh of polypropylene threads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Pool Cover Corporation
    Inventor: LeeAnn Pesta
  • Publication number: 20140208501
    Abstract: A retractable cover for use over an opening such as a swimming pool is described. The cover comprises a number i (i?3) of supporting joist means, each joist having a top and bottom surface; an even number j (j<i) of floor section means, each having a first and second end; the first end of a 1st floor section being pivotally fixed to the top surface of a 1st joist, and the first end of the jth floor section pivotally being fixed to the top surface of the ith joist, the first ends of the 2nd . . .
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2012
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Inventors: Robert David Black, John Alexander Black
  • Publication number: 20140123380
    Abstract: A tie-down for joining a pivot arm of a spa cover lifter and a spa cover comprising a pivot arm restraint to retain at least a portion of the pivot arm and a spa cover connector portion coupled to the pivot arm restraint for coupling the tie-down to the spa cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Inventor: John Cunerty
  • Publication number: 20130340157
    Abstract: A swimming pond cover has an underside with at least one tab secured to the underside. The tab has a grommet configured to receive it tether attached to a float. The float is positioned in the center of a swimming pool on the surface of the water and is secured in its position by being tethered to the pool cover, which is secured to the wall of the pool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventors: Mitch Saccoccio, Jonathan Bonelli
  • Patent number: 8584271
    Abstract: A corner for a pool providing a transition of the corner angle therein and thereby providing for ease of installation, improved aesthetics, improved operation, and simpler maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Pool Cover Specialists National, Inc.
    Inventors: Wesley L. Mathis, David B. Dalton
  • Patent number: 8555556
    Abstract: The reservoir includes a flexible cover laid thereon. A transverse walkway extends along an end thereof. A transverse handrail is mounted along the walkway, along an inside edge of the walkway. A cover-winding gap extends under the handrail and above the walkway. This cover-winding gap extends in a plane of the handrail. The cover-winding gap extends unobstructed under the handrail and above the walkway and along the full width of the reservoir. Because of this cover-winding gap, the flexible cover can be wound up in a spool in one stride across the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Geomembrane Technologies Inc
    Inventor: Brent Howe
  • Patent number: 8516625
    Abstract: A spa cover includes first and second portions that are rotatable along a pivot axis. The first portion has a first length traverse to the pivot axis, and the second portion has a second length extending in the same direction as the first length. The first length is longer than the second length. When the cover is moved from a closed configuration into an open configuration, lower surfaces of the first and second portions, which face the spa tub water when in the closed configuration and can become unsightly, are moved into a position in which they face each other, whereas the upper surface of the second portion faces the users in the tub. A lifter is provided for moving the spa cover between the closed and an open configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Hottubproducts.com, LLC
    Inventors: W. John Gardenier, Andrew Tournas, Michael A. Fabiani
  • Patent number: 8516626
    Abstract: A spa cover includes first and second portions that are rotatable along a pivot axis. The first portion has a first length traverse to the pivot axis, and the second portion has a second length extending in the same direction as the first length. The first length is longer than the second length. When the cover is moved from a closed configuration into an open configuration, lower surfaces of the first and second portions, which face the spa tub water when in the closed configuration and can become unsightly, are moved into a position in which they face each other, whereas the upper surface of the second portion faces the users in the tub. A lifter is provided for moving the spa cover between the closed and an open configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Hottubproducts.com, LLC
    Inventors: W. John Gardenier, Andrew Tournas, Michael A. Fabiani
  • Patent number: 8479325
    Abstract: A spa cover includes first and second spa cover portions that are rotatable along a pivot axis. The first spa cover portion has a first length traverse to the pivot axis, and the second spa cover portion has a second length extending in the same direction as the first length. The first length is longer than the second length. When the cover is moved from a closed configuration into an open configuration, lower surfaces of the first and second spa cover portions, which face the water at the interior of the spa tub when in the closed configuration and can become unsightly, are moved into a position in which they face each other, whereas the upper surface of the second spa cover portion faces the users in the tub. A lifter is provided for moving the spa cover between the closed and an open configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Hottubproducts.com, LLC
    Inventors: W. John Gardenier, Andrew Tournas
  • Patent number: 8468617
    Abstract: A spa cover includes first and second portions that are rotatable along a pivot axis. The first portion has a first length traverse to the pivot axis, and the second portion has a second length extending in the same direction as the first length. The first length is longer than the second length. When the cover is moved from a closed configuration into an open configuration, lower surfaces of the first and second portions, which face the spa tub water when in the closed configuration and can become unsightly, are moved into a position in which they face each other, whereas the upper surface of the second portion faces the users in the tub. A lifter is provided for moving the spa cover between the closed and an open configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Hottubproducts.com, LLC
    Inventors: W. John Gardenier, Andrew Tournas
  • Patent number: 8418279
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for covering a surface such as a swimming pool, a sports field, a glazed surface, a vehicle body, including: (a) a drum rotatingly mounted and capable of winding or unwinding a cover, said drum being mounted on longitudinal translation mechanisms including rails provided on either side of said surface; (b) an attachment system for said cover at one transverse end of the surface to be covered so that the translation and the rotation of the drum results in the winding/unwinding of the cover above the surface to be covered; (c) a system for continuously locking the longitudinal edges of the cover onto said rails that is progressively fitted during the unwinding operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: BecoFlex S.A.
    Inventor: Benoît Coenraets
  • Patent number: 8418414
    Abstract: A swimming pool brace assembly having a brace and bracket used to attach a concrete form. The bracket positions the concrete form between the concrete footing and the deck of the swimming pool. The swimming pool brace is provided with receptacles that are adapted to receive the brackets, which are used to retain the position of the concrete form. The receptacles of the brace allow the brackets to be attached to either side of the brace. The bracket includes a retention feature that is configured to retain the bracket in position once inserted into the receptacle of the brace. The bracket includes a series of radially spaced inwardly extending protrusions that engage the concrete form. The protrusions are adapted to deflect to adjust for variations in the size of the forms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: P.I. Inc.
    Inventor: Laurence A. Nelson
  • Publication number: 20120278987
    Abstract: Provided is a pool spring cover having an elongate tubular member with openings on first and second sides, respectively. The first and second sides span a longitudinal axis. An attachment member extends generally along the longitudinal axis from a first portion of the second side to a free end. A fastener comprised of a first fastener element and a second fastener element is provided. The first fastener element is associated with the attachment member at the free end and the second fastener element is associated with the tubular member at a second portion of the second side. The first and second fastener elements are adapted to fasten to each other such that the attachment member forms a loop. The first fastener element and the second fastener element may form a one-time use fastener. Also provided are related systems and methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventor: Dean Marelli
  • Patent number: 8291528
    Abstract: An two-piece, corner framing element is described for connecting two longitudinal swimming pool extrusions having longitudinal pool-liner channels that utilizes the conventional upward projecting liner-anchoring land along a bottom front edge of the pool-liner channels for angularly orienting and securing the longitudinal extrusions together in the field framing a pool corner wall during construction of a swimming pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventors: David Dunn, Harry J. Last
  • Patent number: 8286277
    Abstract: A modular pool cover support frame is provided having standardized modular components that are easily assembled, disassembled, stored and shipped and when assembled are held together by compressive forces exerted by the weight of the pool cover. The modular support frame includes standardized spanning components and standardized connecting components for connecting the standardized spanning components which together with a tensioning device holds the modular components together employing the weight of standard pool covers and forces exerted on the pool cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Inventor: Richard Tupper
  • Publication number: 20120246819
    Abstract: Pool edge sealing members releasably attachable to an outer peripheral edge of a pool cover which has been secured to a surface surrounding a pool, to prevent debris from entering the pool. An assembly for covering a pool, to prevent debris from entering the pool, having a pool cover that is adapted to be removably secured over the pool and configured and dimensioned to completely cover the pool, a plurality of tie-downs attachable to the pool cover and corresponding anchors for removably securing the pool cover over the pool, and at least one pool edge sealing member. A method for covering a pool includes the steps of applying a predetermined length of at least one pool edge sealing member to the outer peripheral edge of a pool cover, to seal a gap formed between the pool cover and the surface surrounding the pool, to prevent debris from entering the pool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventors: Corey HYATT, Grace HYATT
  • Patent number: 8201285
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Inventors: Gennaro Pugliese, Domenic Pugliese
  • Patent number: 8151381
    Abstract: A flexible safety barrier edge material contacts a wall of a poolside raised obstacle with a hollow loop crossection. The loop portion is slit at multiple intervals to permit the individual sections to conform to relatively sharp inside or outside corner contours of the obstruction. A continuous stainless steel cable is guided around the respective portion of the pool cover periphery in the vicinity of the obstruction, by passing it through fabric webbing loops sewn at the edge of the pool cover. This cable is attached to a top surface of the pool wall deck using pool anchors with split loops having a cable receiving slot. The cable is looped thru said turnbuckle and secured via cable clamps and then tightened by the use of turnbuckles at either end of the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Pool Cover Corporation
    Inventor: LeeAnn Pesta
  • Patent number: 8146297
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device (D) for locking/unlocking to the ground (S) of a connecting plate (100) to the ground or to the rim of a basin of a roof element, the plate (100) being on the one hand connected to the rim of the roof element and on the other hand connected to the ground (S) or to the basin rim, the plate (100) being pierced with an orifice (121) coming opposite a hole (200) made in the ground, the locking/unlocking device interacting with the hole (200) made in the ground and resting on the plate (100) for the purpose of attaching the latter. This device is noteworthy in that it comprises an expandable bush (300) changing from a volume called a rest volume allowing it to be inserted into the hole (200) made in the ground to a volume called the expanded volume ensuring its adhesion to the walls (210) of the said hole (200). Applications: attaching swimming pool shelters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: ABRISUD
    Inventors: William Testu, Philippe Lenoir
  • Patent number: 8069504
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventor: William C. Greenfield, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8051505
    Abstract: A cover for a spa includes a frame with a raisable hood. The hood is affixed by cable to an electric winch mounted atop the frame. Pivotable louvers allow the hood to raise and bracket guides act as stops for safety purposes. After spa usage the winch lowers the spa hood to cover the spa and prevent dust, leaves, debris and the like from contaminating the water contained within.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventor: Karl G. Horton
  • Patent number: 8015631
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Pool Cover Corporation
    Inventor: LeeAnn Pesta
  • Patent number: 7971287
    Abstract: An apparatus for lifting a cover from a spa or other housing includes a frame member having one end that is pivotally attached to the exterior of the housing. Another end of the frame member is pivotally and slidably coupled to the cover. In one embodiment, the frame member is pivotally and slidably coupled to the proximate cover portion via a pin attached to the proximate cover portion and extending through a slot defined by the frame member. A motor is likewise attached to the exterior of the housing and is pivotally coupled to the frame member. The motor causes the frame member to rotate thereby lifting the cover off of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventors: Mike Buzzetti, Zachary C. Mansfield, Michael J. Mowrey
  • Patent number: 7874023
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Inventor: Andy P. Sundling
  • Patent number: 7793390
    Abstract: An apparatus for connecting pond covers, which includes a shaft having an exterior surface, a first end and a second end. An engagement profile is positioned on the exterior surface at a first end of the shaft. A cable guide is positioned in an intermediate position between the first end and the second end of the shaft, the cable guide being oriented transversely to the shaft. A cable is prevented from removal from the cable guide by the second end of the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Layfield Geosynthetics & Industrial Fabrics Ltd.
    Inventors: James Andrew Mills, Jason Jeffery Robert MacQueen
  • Publication number: 20100170033
    Abstract: An apparatus for removably securing a cover to a hot tub including a slider bracket having a bracket body having two flanges, said flanges arranged substantially parallel to each other, a slot arranged in each of said flanges, and a rod engaged in both of said slots for enabling said rod to slidingly traverse said slots, wherein said cover includes a strap, and said strap is engaged with said rod of said slider bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2010
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Inventor: Richard Adamczyk
  • Patent number: 7735163
    Abstract: A swimming pool gap securement assembly prevents the accessibility of persons, animals or other objects into swimming pools, because of gaps left between the edges of a swimming pool cover and the surfaces of vertically rising decorative landscape obstructions associated therewith. The assembly provides one or more protective extensions of a swimming pool cover which covers any gaps present when a swimming pool cover encounters these vertically rising obstructions. These panels, one for each gap encountered, are generally of triangular shape, of the same fabric as the main pool cover or any other pool cover materials, and are sewn into, or otherwise attached to, the reinforced webbing at the edge of the pool cover. The lower horizontal edge and the vertical end edge of the wing extension panel have an attached edge strip with a linear array of holes engageable with one or more anchors imbedded into the deck or on the side of the obstruction itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Pool Cover Corporation
    Inventors: MaryEllen Comitino, LeeAnn Pesta
  • Publication number: 20100043133
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cover for an outdoor tank, the cover being made of a plate that can be treaded on and shifted between an open and a closed position, wherein the cover is guided displaceably on rails for opening and closing purposes in an at least approximately parallel fashion to the opening surface of the tank. A seal acting between the cover and the edge surface of the tank is brought into contact with the corresponding surface during the closing motion by such a relative movement that has a clear directional component, said directional component being normal on and directed toward said surface. The temperature of the surface from which the seal is removed when the cover is opened is automatically monitored and automatically raised by a heating element when the temperature falls below the freezing point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventor: Richard Armstark
  • Publication number: 20090307834
    Abstract: A spa covering device is provided. Such spa covering device includes a substantially hollow self-supporting covering member for covering at least one of a tub portion of a spa tub, a deck portion of such spa tub and a combination thereof. The covering member is manufactured from a first predetermined material and has a first predetermined size and a first predetermined shape. An access mechanism is operably disposed on a first predetermined portion of the covering member at a predetermined location thereon for enabling a user to at least one of enter such spa tub, exit such spa tub, and a combination thereof after the covering member has been placed at least one of on and over such spa tub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: Scott Rizzotto
  • Patent number: 7603727
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Inventors: Richard C. Rosene, Lora J. Rosene
  • Publication number: 20090249538
    Abstract: A flexible safety barrier edge material contacts a wall of a poolside raised obstacle with a hollow loop crossection. The loop portion is slit at multiple intervals to permit the individual sections to conform to relatively sharp inside or outside corner contours of the obstruction. A continuous stainless steel cable is guided around the respective portion of the pool cover periphery in the vicinity of the obstruction, by passing it through fabric webbing loops sewn at the edge of the pool cover. This cable is attached to a top surface of the pool wall deck using pool anchors with split loops having a cable receiving slot. The cable is looped thru said turnbuckle and secured via cable clamps and then tightened by the use of turnbuckles at either end of the cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventor: LeeAnn Pesta
  • Publication number: 20090205120
    Abstract: A modular pool cover support frame is provided having standardized modular components that are easily assembled, disassembled, stored and shipped and when assembled are held together by compressive forces exerted by the weight of the pool cover. The modular support frame includes standardized spanning components and standardized connecting components for connecting the standardized spanning components which together with a tensioning device holds the modular components together employing the weight of standard pool covers and forces exerted on the pool cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2008
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Richard Tupper
  • Publication number: 20090151065
    Abstract: According to some examples, a coverable pool structure having a membrane for containing a liquid, the membrane having a bottom wall, a peripheral wall extending from the bottom wall, and a top edge on the peripheral wall, a rim connected to the peripheral wall proximate the top edge, a flexible covering member being positionable so as to extend between the peripheral wall to inhibit access to the liquid, an attachment apparatus for securing the flexible covering member to the rim, and a support member positionable between a top surface of the liquid and the flexible covering member and configured to bias at least a portion of the flexible covering member away from the liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: TERRENCE JOHN WATSON
  • Publication number: 20090126097
    Abstract: A locking system for securing a cover that moves within a hole between a lowered position and a raised position is disclosed. The locking system includes one or more locking mechanisms. Each locking mechanism includes an upper leg and a lower leg, each upper leg and the lower leg having a proximal end and a distal end. Each locking mechanism further includes a first joint that joins the upper leg near the respective distal ends of the upper leg and the lower leg, the first joint allowing planar rotational motion of the upper leg relative to the lower leg between a minimum folded angle in the lowered position and a maximum unfolded angle in the raised position. Each locking mechanism further includes a second joint to flexibly attach the distal end of the upper leg on the bottom side of the cover to allow planar rotational motion of the upper leg relative to the cover, and a third joint to flexibly attach the distal end of the lower leg to an attachment disposed on the bottom of the hole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventor: Stefan Kanetis
  • Publication number: 20090100588
    Abstract: A putting green whose perimeter is level with the top of a concrete-sided pool having a decorative ribbon along the top of the pool side and an apron surrounding the pool having at least partially flat surface, the putting green overlying a deck including a) a waterproof surface comprising decking surface members having lengths and ends, the lengths being sized to the dimensions of the pool and the surface being at the same level as the pool apron; b) supports including i. cross members which are perpendicular to the lengths of the decking surface members; ii. underlying joists that form a sturdy base for the cross members; and iii. joist hangers being secured to the sides of the pool below the decorative ribbon along the top of the pool side and being sunk into the concrete side of the pool; and c) a putting green comprising at least the layers of gravel, sand and artificial grass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventor: Jeffery L Getz
  • Patent number: 7496975
    Abstract: A pair of stabilizer straps for a spa cover lift mechanism for foldable spa covers used to protect and retain heat in spas and similar apparatus, the stabilizer straps being spaced apart and having one end fastened to the back side of a generally square or rectangular cabinet and an opposite end to the spa cover, wherein a conventional lift mechanism has side arms with first ends pivotally connected to opposite sides of the spa cabinet displaced from the back side and second ends connected to a cross member located at a spa cover fold, the stabilizer straps aiding in evenly displacing a folded cover to the back side of the spa cabinet for use of the spa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Inventor: E. Jess Tudor
  • Publication number: 20090013458
    Abstract: A deck is disclosed that is level with the top of a concrete/plaster pool having a decorative ribbon of tile along the top of the pool side and an apron surrounding the pool having at least a partially flat surface. The deck has a surface of deck surface members having lengths and ends, the lengths being sized to the dimensions of the pool and the surface being at the same level as the pool apron. Under the deck are supports of joists which are mostly perpendicular to the decking surface members, of underlying beams that form a sturdy base for the joists and beam hangers being secured to the sides of the pool below the decorative ribbon along the top of the pool side and being anchored into the concrete side of the pool. Also disclosed is an improved method for installing such a deck.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventor: Jeff Getz
  • Patent number: 7464416
    Abstract: Invented techniques and associated mechanisms are described for passively assuring that the spiraling layers of wound-up layers of a buoyant pool cover are, and will remain tightly wound around a rotatable cover drum completely submerged in a pool bottom tough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Inventor: Harry J. Last
  • Publication number: 20080172782
    Abstract: A swimming pool gap securement assembly prevents the accessibility of persons, animals or other objects into swimming pools, because of gaps left between the edges of a swimming pool cover and the surfaces of vertically rising decorative landscape obstructions associated therewith. The assembly provides one or more protective extensions of a swimming pool cover which covers any gaps present when a swimming pool cover encounters these vertically rising obstructions. These panels, one for each gap encountered, are generally of triangular shape, of the same fabric as the main pool cover or any other pool cover materials, and are sewn into, or otherwise attached to, the reinforced webbing at the edge of the pool cover. The lower horizontal edge and the vertical end edge of the wing extension panel have an attached edge strip with a linear array of holes engageable with one or more anchors imbedded into the deck or on the side of the obstruction itself.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Inventors: MaryEllen Comitino, LeeAnn Pesta
  • Patent number: 7389551
    Abstract: A lash for a spa having a lid, wherein the lash includes an elongate flexible member having opposite first and second ends and at least two layers of webbing having a flexible metal cable interleaved between the layers of webbing. A releasably lockable latch is mounted or mountable on the first end of the flexible member for locking the first end of the flexible member to a corresponding first exterior wall of the spa. An anchor is mounted or mountable on the second end of the flexile member for irremovably anchoring the second end of the flexible member to a second exterior wall of the spa, opposite the first exterior wall of the spa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Inventor: Dan Stebner
  • Publication number: 20080028511
    Abstract: This new versatile invention of pool cover dome support system keeps the bugs, dirt, rain water, snow and leaves, out of the above ground pools or in-ground pools cover during winter. The system consists of a central distribution hub assembly, edge of pool clamps assembly and versatile telescoping poles. The central distribution hub assembly can be elevated above the rim of the pool to any desired height. The pool cover is disposed over the dome structure and secured around the pool whereby objects and substances will not accumulate on the pool cover. The system can also be adapted and used as structure to provide a temporary shelter for many other applications. The objective is to provide one universal substantially rigid lightweight structure at a low cost with minimum parts that can be assembled as a dome regardless of pools size or shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Publication date: February 7, 2008
    Inventor: Hatim Azzam
  • Patent number: 7146656
    Abstract: An apparatus for raising and closing a hinged spa cover. A frame assembly extends over the rear panel of a bifold spa cover, and further is pivotally connected to a base assembly. In order to raise the spa cover from the spa tub, the front panel of the spa cover is folded over the rear panel and frame. The frame assembly pivots on the base assembly lifting the folded spa cover to an opened position. A stop connected to the frame assembly contacts the ground as the frame assembly pivots on the base, once the cover reaches a predetermined open position. The reverse steps will lower and close the spa cover onto the spa tub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Inventor: Fred Hagan
  • Patent number: 7143455
    Abstract: A protective assembly for an above ground swimming pool includes a pool cover and plural clips for securing the cover to the pool coping. The cover is fabricated from lightweight, polyester, mesh material. The material has an open weave to allow sunlight and rain therethrough and allow complete circulation and filtration of pool water. However, the weave is of a gauge small enough to prevent debris from trees, insects, animals and the like from coming in contact with the water in the pool. Unique clips are provided so that the cover can be easily mounted to and removed from the pool structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Inventors: Steven J. Cordray, Joseph A. Kiesel, Jr.