Abstract: A fail-safe device is disclosed for ensuring compatibility and reliable operation of a Voltage Indicator System (VIS) for a medium- or high-voltage apparatus in presence of a monitoring system with: a first and second fail-safe device terminal; the first terminal being connectable to an output terminal of a coupler, the coupler being provided in a medium- or high voltage portion of the apparatus, and the second terminal being connectable to an input terminal of the VIS, which is provided in the low-voltage portion; a third and fourth fail-safe device terminal, wherein the third and fourth terminals being electrically connectable to first and second input/output terminals of the monitoring system; and an electrical circuit connecting the first and second fail-safe device terminal and being adapted to compensate for electrical failure modes of the monitoring system such, that the VIS is operable in case the electrical failure modes occur.

Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a safety mechanical system including a latter and a barrier for use with a an above-ground swimming pool that is easy to install and provides safety from children accessing the pool via the ladder. Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to a safety mechanical barrier that blocks access to the ladder itself, thereby restricting access to an above-ground pool by unsupervised minors.

Abstract: The present invention is an artificial surfing reef for modifying a body of water's bathymetry to create surfing waves. The artificial surfing reef is a shaped structure made up of many sized and shaped Expanded Polystyrene Geo Foam blocks. As swell moves toward the shore, its bottom is resisted by the leading edge of the Expanded Polystyrene Geo Foam artificial surfing reef. As the swell transverses over the Expanded Polystyrene Geo Foam Artificial reef, the wave topples over and forms a plunging surfing wave. An earth anchor, connected to a cable, linked to a round shaped anchor disc, is attached to each Expanded Polystyrene Geo Foam block for maintaining the foam artificial reef at a desired location submersed underwater. A plurality of Expanded Polystyrene Geo Foam blocks may be attached to one another and configured so as to define a surf reef, which enhances the suitability of waves for surfing.

Abstract: Apparatus usable with a safety swimming pool incorporating a buoyant submersed rescue floor is described. In one instance, a winch coupling a gear motor to a cable drum via an electrically disengageable clutch is used as a device to re-deploy the buoyant floor to the bottom after a rescue. In another instance a solar powered dedicated power supply is used to power the trigger/sensor subsystem. In yet another instance an electro-mechanical circuit for sensing and triggering a rescue episode is described.

Abstract: A water circulation system for a swimming pool includes a venturi skimmer; a pump with a suction side and a discharge side; a suction drain; a pool return line; and at least one pool inlet fluidically connected to the pool return line. A pump inlet on the pump suction side has an inlet selector to fluidically connect the pump to the venturi skimmer, the suction drain, or a combination of the venturi skimmer and the suction drain. In addition, pump outlet on the pump discharge side has an outlet selector to fluidically connect the pump to the venturi skimmer, the pool return line, or a combination of the venturi skimmer and the pool return line. The pump is a multispeed pump or a variable speed pump. Also provided is a method of circulating water for a swimming pool generally comprising this circulation system.

Abstract: A system for detecting and responding to potential drowning situations in particularly adapted to shallow pools and bathing tubs for infants and small children. One or more motion sensors detect potential drowning patterns based on intervals of above-water movements followed by cessation of such movements. Upon detection of a potential drowning pattern, the system implements a succession of responsive modes, including an alarm mode and culminating in a rescue mode, in which the water is rapidly drained from the pool/tub to prevent a submerged child from drowning.

Abstract: A grate cover being installed in a recess in the top of a sump. The grate is formed of an upper and a lower section. The upper section exhibits four squares or four triangles therein, The upper section has a dome-shaped configuration and has four square or triangular shapes therein, depending on the geometric division therein, each shape has openings therein. The lower section has four trapezoid shapes therein. Each of the shapes of the upper section, whether square or triangular, has a concave surface curvature therein at a transition between the upper and the lower section. Each of the trapezoids of the lower section has two concave surfaces curvatures therein. One curvature extends in a first direction from the upper section toward an outside edge of grate cover. The other second concave curvature extends in a direction which is normal to the first direction.

Abstract: Apparatus usable with a safety swimming pool incorporating a buoyant submersed rescue floor is described. In one instance, a winch coupling a gear motor to a cable drum via an electrically disengageable clutch is used as a device to re-deploy the buoyant floor to the bottom after a rescue. In another instance a solar powered dedicated power supply is used to power the trigger/sensor subsystem. In yet another instance an electro-mechanical circuit for sensing and triggering a rescue episode is described.

Abstract: A pool recirculation pump safety system includes a power supply assembly operable to selectively supply operating power to a recirculation pump motor, an entrapment detection assembly operable to detect a change in a recirculation system parameter indicative of swimmer entrapment at a suction intake opening, and a timer assembly operable to automatically bypass the entrapment detection assembly for a predetermined time period upon energization of the system. During operation of the recirculation pump motor, the system is configured to secure operating power to the recirculation pump motor upon detection of the indicative recirculation system parameter change after the predetermined time period. The entrapment detection assembly and the timer assembly can be arranged to form a switchable neutral connection for a power relay of the power supply assembly.

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.

Abstract: A safety device for a drain sump includes a drain adjunct member and an adapter for attaching the drain adjunct member to the main drain pipe that is in connection with the pool or spa pump. The drain adjunct member is “T-shaped” for limiting the possibility of limb entrapment and further includes anti-hair entangling mesh and vacuum relief holes for limiting the possibility of hair and body entrapment. In the event that an individual does block water flow into the drain adjunct member, the unblocked vacuum relief holes prevent a vacuum force from being created by allowing increased intake of water therethrough. The arrangement of the vacuum relief holes on the body of the drain adjunct member disrupts the vortex effect otherwise created by the typical single direction flow of water in a standard main drain pipe, thereby further limiting the likelihood of limb, body or hair entrapment.

Abstract: Missing and broken drain covers for swimming pools, spas and/or other applications expose swimmers to dangers including entrapment and evisceration. An anti-evisceration ring of this invention is attached to an opening of a sump or frame and provides a non-planar edge that prevents the formation of a vacuum by a body part and thereby preventing injuries to swimmers.

Abstract: Missing covers on pipes of a pool circulation system can create a hair and limb entrapment hazard for swimmers. The present invention provides pipe insert with a cylindrical body having a plurality of fins that extend into the cylindrical body to prevent the entrapment of limbs in the pipes of the pool circulation system. The fins further comprise a geometry that easily sheds hair strands to prevent hair from getting trapped in the pipe.

Abstract: A ladder safety cover comprising: an elongated body, where the elongated body extends along a ladder; a top bar attached to a top portion of the elongated body; a bottom bar attached to a bottom portion of the elongated body; a top securing means attached to the top bar, where the top securing means fastens to a handlebar of the ladder; and a bottom securing means attached to the bottom bar, where the bottom securing means fasten to a bottom portion of the ladder, wherein the elongated body covers a set of rungs along the ladder to prevent use of the ladder when the ladder safety cover is in place.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: Anti-entrapment drain cover [A] for pools is formed by a molded wheel-like cover unit [10] of radial dimensions greater than the radius of any pool sump or drain [10] to be covered, so as to extend over the drain floor radially beyond the drain. Radial ribs [14] below the cover unit define channels opening at the periphery to provide a side inlet [18] between each rib pair so that the periphery stands off the surface sufficiently for water flow through the inlets but with spacing insufficient for user grasping of the cover. Arcuate inlet recesses [20] open periphery between rib pairs, so water flows into the channels for draining without potential for pool user entrapment even if a pool user attempts to block them. Securements are such that the cover, which is user unbreakable, cannot be pulled away by the user.

Abstract: The drain apparatus of the present invention is designed and configured to prevent the entrapment of a person by the suction or vacuum forces of a drain in a swimming pool, spa, or any other large body of water with a recirculation system. The drain apparatus of the present invention has a spring biased plunger that immediately closes the drain of a swimming pool, spa, or any other large body of water when a substantial portion of the drain cover is blocked or restricted. By closing the drain, the drain apparatus of the present invention eliminates any vacuum or suction pressure at or underneath the drain cover that entraps a person thus allowing the person to break free easily and immediately without any time delays.

Abstract: A motor with associated load sensor is connected to a circulation pump of a swimming pool circulation system. The load sensor performs the function of a safety vacuum release system by detecting underload of the motor. Underload is now discovered to be reliably indicative of blockage on the intake side of a circulation pump. A switch controlled by the load sensor shuts off the motor in response to a suitable underload. Vacuum on the intake side of the circulation pump neutralizes, thereby freeing a person or object blocking the suction line.

Abstract: An apparatus and system are disclosed for a pool drain cover, the cover having a perforated ramp around its perimeter to which are attached a plurality of straight, horizontally disposed tubes, circumscribing channels with substantially continuous cross-sectional areas, each tube enclosing a channel extending the length of the tube of at least six inches. The cross-sectional area of the tubes is kept at a minimum and their number is increased by arranging the tubes in rows and columns or giving the tubes an elliptical cross-sectional area and arranging them in a single row, thereby reducing the tapering in the tubes. The cover may be segmented and may be of multiple shapes, including a circle.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a pumping system and a discharge vacuum relief valve for use in a hydraulic system including a safety vacuum release system pump to circulate water in a swimming pool and/or a spa. The hydraulic system includes one or more check valves located on a discharge side of the safety vacuum release system pump. The discharge vacuum relief valve is capable of venting a vacuum at the discharge side of the safety vacuum release system pump during a vacuum event at a suction side of the safety vacuum release system pump.

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.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a stair assembly for a swimming pool comprising a top stair portion that is adapted to be securely attached to a bottom stair portion by means of a frame that connects the top and bottom stair portions. Weight support means, being a plurality of posts, are incorporated within the stair assembly to reinforce the assembly and provide equal weight distribution. Stair assembly support means, being front and rear tie bars, are securely attached underneath the bottom stair portion. A handrail is mounted on the stair assembly adapted to be attached to a deck of a swimming pool. The top and bottom stair portions are provided with securely-attached skirts. Top stair portion weight support means are securely mounted between the top stair portion and the frame, and the bottom stair portion weight support means are securely mounted between the frame and the front and rear tie bars.

Abstract: A Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS) which incorporates a water flow-rate sensor in electrical communication with the electric motor which powers a swimming pool pump at an aquatic facility. When the flow of water drops to a rate indicative of a flow blockage at a suction outlet fitting within the pool, the SVRS shuts down the electric pump motor to release a suction entrapped bather. In one embodiment, the flow-rate sensor can be a transit time or a Doppler unit which features a non-invasive, clamp-on installation onto the circulation pipe. The SVRS can display the real-time rate of flow of the circulation system, the real-time turnover rate of the swimming pool, and signal the operator when it is time to clean the pool filter. The SVRS can also maintain the optimum flow rate of the circulation system by adjusting the speed of a variable speed pump motor as hydraulic resistance changes.

Abstract: A movable floor system for a swimming pool, including a structural platform comprising a horizontal frame designed to support a finished covering, the platform being designed to be installed in a cavity acting as the swimming pool. The system includes a lifting mechanism, a plurality of parallel crossmembers fixed within a layer formed by the frame of the platform; and a plurality of carrier pulleys located along outer lateral edges of the frame, the carrier pulleys designed to accommodate a platform-driving cable. The lifting mechanism further includes: a driver; a shaft; first and second drive pulleys situated at the ends of the shaft designed to take at least one platform-driving cable; an attachment to secure at least one cable in the cavity; and means for actuating the drive shaft.

Abstract: Apparatus usable with a safety swimming pool incorporating a buoyant submersed rescue floor is described. In one instance, a winch coupling a gear motor to a cable drum via an electrically disengageable clutch is used as a device to re-deploy the buoyant floor to the bottom after a rescue. In another instance a solar powered dedicated power supply is used to power the trigger/sensor subsystem. In yet another instance an electro-mechanical circuit for sensing and triggering a rescue episode is described.

Abstract: The installation and removal of a portable but sturdy pool barrier fence uses the hardware installed for attaching a safety pool cover during the pool use season. Multiple rectangular panel frames support a mesh fabric. Spaced anchors mounted in said deck adapted to support a cover or said fence when said cover is removed. The fence has rectangular sections formed by upper, lower and side frame members enclosing the fencing material. Each lower frame member in the fence sections has a centrally located rib extending longitudinally along a top surface thereof. Anchor clips, preferably Z-shaped clips, are located and attached to the deck at the anchors in the deck. Each of the anchor clips has a keyway for engaging a respective rib on the lower frame member of the rectangular fence section to secure the fence to the deck.

Abstract: The embodiments herein provide a security system for a water body. The system includes a reticular structure arranged on a ground level, an electromotor, an electro hydraulic circuit with a plurality of hydraulic components placed in the water body, a central controlling unit, and a remote controller. A pressing operation of the remote controller transfers a command to the central controlling unit which in turn sends a control command to the plurality of hydraulic components to arrange the reticular structure at a required height in the water body. The reticular structure is moved vertically in a direction along the depth/height of the water body to a desired height based on the requirements.

Abstract: A vacuum relief unit and method for venting air into a pool pumping system when a pressure level within the system drops below a first pressure level limit. The unit includes a closed air chamber, a device for venting chamber air from the air chamber into the pool pumping system when the pressure level in the pool pumping system drops below the first pressure level limit, a device for venting atmospheric air into the air chamber when the pressure level within the air chamber drops below a second pressure level limit that is lower than the first pressure level limit, and a device for delaying operation of the atmospheric air venting device when the pressure within the air chamber is no longer below the second pressure level limit.

Abstract: A swimming pool safety net system includes a net having a first edge affixable to a side of a swimming pool and a second edge extendable toward a center of the swimming pool. A plurality of actuators are substantially regularly spacing around a periphery of a swimming pool wherein each actuator has an extendable end affixed to the second edge of the net. A controller selectively operates the actuators between a retracted position with the second end of the net proximal to the side of the swimming pool and an extended position with the second end of the net extended toward the center of the swimming pool.

Abstract: The novel enhanced pool safety device of the present disclosure increases safety around pools and prevents unnecessary drowning. The apparatus is disposed in a pool drain system and had been at least one blade connected to an axle and moved by the suction force provided by the filter system. As water moves from a pool to an intake duct via a drain, the combination of moving water and vacuum force turns blades, which cut foreign materials, such as hair, that comes through the drain grating. The cutting of these materials prevents loss of life that may arise as humans and other objects become entangled in pool drains.

Abstract: A swimming pool hydraulic suction fuse system. Implementations may include a fuse housing having a pump outlet, a drain inlet, and an air source. The hydraulic suction fuse system may also include a fuse assembly coupled into the fuse housing, the fuse assembly having a fuse body including a first section and a second section. An air intake may be coupled to the fuse body and a magnet assembly may be coupled to the first section of the fuse body. The magnet assembly may include a solid magnet. A fuse may be included, which may be coupled to the second section of the fuse body and include an attractor element coupled between a fuse cap and a fuse stem.

Abstract: Methods of relieving the suction force in a swimming pool or spa. A first method may include the steps of closing an aperture in a hydraulic suction fuse through magnetic force and opening the aperture by increasing suction force within the hydraulic suction fuse. Implementations of hydraulic suction fuses may also utilize a method of adjusting the fuse point of a hydraulic suction fuse. The method may include decoupling a magnet assembly from a first step having a first height, the first step contained in a fuse body contained in the hydraulic suction fuse. The method may also include rotating the magnet assembly and coupling the magnet assembly with a second step having a second height, the second step contained in the fuse body.

Abstract: A swimming pool is provided with a swimming pool ladder. A swimming pool ladder cover covers the steps and other portions of the swimming pool ladder.

Abstract: A uniquely designed drain cover for swimming pools, spas, whirlpools and the like that is non-flat and clover shaped containing three or more “leaves” that provides for strengthened rigidity, increased protection against hair and body entrapment and that is connected to the sump through ribs that run across the body of the drain cover that allow for securing the drain cover to the sump through these ribs in addition to the perimeter providing for greater anti-deflection properties and anti-vortexing properties. Apertures found on the surface of the cover and along the perimeter add to the anti-deflection and anti-vortexing properties of the cover.

Abstract: In a method of manufacturing a swimming pool safety coping element (5,40) comprising a first portion (110) and a second portion (120) disposed upon the first portion, the method comprises the steps of forming the second portion (120) from a second material, wherein a surface of the second portion (120) comprises an interlocking component, positioning the second portion in a mould to enable a first material to be received by the interlocking component, introducing the first material into the mould and curing the coping element.

Abstract: A vacuum relief safety valve includes a housing defining an inner chamber and attached to the suction-side of the swimming pool or spa pump. An air inlet aperture is formed in the housing so as to be open to ambient air. A sealing element is disposed within the housing and biased against the air inlet aperture by a spring so as to effectively seal the inner chamber of the housing from ambient air. When a maximum allowed vacuum level within the pump is exceeded, such as when a swimming pool drain is obstructed, the sealing element moves into the inner chamber and opens the air inlet aperture causing the pump to rapidly lose its prime and enabling removal of the entrapment. Simultaneously, the movement of the sealing element provides electricity to a control circuit which shuts off power to the pump.

Abstract: A swimming pool safety net system includes a net having a first edge affixable to a side of a swimming pool and a second edge extendable toward a center of the swimming pool. A plurality of actuators are substantially regularly spacing around a periphery of a swimming pool wherein each actuator has an extendable end affixed to the second edge of the net. A controller selectively operates the actuators between a retracted position with the second end of the net proximal to the side of the swimming pool and an extended position with the second end of the net extended toward the center of the swimming pool.

Abstract: The invention relates to a border for swimming pools, consisting of slabs (1) set in the ground around a swimming pool or in bordering areas, each slab internally forms a series of ducts (4) which are perpendicular to the edge of the pool and communicate with collectors (2-3) which are located on the sides and, in turn, communicate with outer ducts (9) leading downwards into the pool (11), where they connect to a heat dissipator (10) attached to a lateral wall of the pool, forming a closed circuit therewith through which a fluid circulates, said fluid raising the temperature of the water in the swimming pool when heated, by the rays of sunlight, in the slabs (1) exposed to the sun, and guided by a thermosiphon system or by a pumping action, to the dissipator (10) arranged in the water.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cover and sump assembly for a main drain of a pool or spa that prevents suction entrapment, and specifically, to an assembly having a frame with openings, plates with openings positioned on the frame, and a sump for collecting water and receiving the frame. The assembly reduces the velocity of water flowing there through, uniformly distributes a suction force created by water flowing into the sump, prevents a vortex of flowing water above the assembly, and provides anti-entanglement features to minimize the likelihood of an individual becoming entrapped on the assembly by a suction force produced by a pump in the pool or spa filtering system. The assembly includes a conduit defining an opening along a lower portion thereof that reduces the velocity of flowing water at the suction opening in the sump by reorienting the suction port from a vertical to a horizontal orientation.

Abstract: A machine and method for anticipatory sensing and intervention to avoid swimmer entrapment, entanglement or evisceration; with a proactive, pre-entrapment, ultrasonic sensor assessing the relative hazard of swimmer proximity to a drain cover. A transducer launches waves into the suction piping and/or drain system, and receives echoes from the drain cover, swimmer limbs, hair or body, and water or wall surface parallel to the drain cover. A transmitter electrically energizes the transducer launching waves into the suction piping and/or drain system. A receiver/processor detects the echoes analog signals from the drain cover and water beyond the pool drain. A Logic and Control element converts the detected signals into reliable information regarding safety/hazard status for a swimmer near a drain. Predetermined logic provides automatic pump shutdown, and alarms as required; including a missing drain cover. A pool alarm mode detects that an object, such as a small child, has fallen in.

Abstract: The present invention provides a submersible pool platform including a body portion having at least one side panel and a base portion, a platform portion having a non-slip surface, at least one anchoring means and at least one safety warning means whereby the submersible pool platform provides a collapsible platform adapted to reduce the depth of water to a safe level for children when standing on the platform and helps stabilize an inexperienced swimmer experiencing difficulty.

Abstract: A machine for anticipatory sensing and intervention to avoid swimmer entrapment, with an active pre-entrapment sensor (e.g. ultrasonic) that assesses the relative hazard based on swimmer proximity to the drain cover. An Ultrasonic Transducer launches waves into the suction piping and/or drain system, and receives echoes from the drain cover, swimmer limbs, hair or body, and the water surface parallel to the drain cover. A Transmitter/Pulser electrically energizes the ultrasonic transducer to launch waves into the suction piping and/or drain system, A Receiver/Processor detects the echoes electrical signals from the ultrasonic transducer. and receives echoes from objects of interest beyond the pool drain. A Logic and Control element converts the detected signals into reliable information regarding a swimmer safety/hazard status. An Output provides a pump shutdown command when required. There is also a pool alarm mode to detect, and a panic alert, that a child has fallen in.

Abstract: A vacuum relief safety valve includes a housing defining an inner chamber and attached to the suction-side of the swimming pool or spa pump. An air inlet aperture is formed in the housing so as to be open to ambient air. A sealing element is disposed within the housing and biased against the air inlet aperture by a spring so as to effectively seal the inner chamber of the housing from ambient air. When a maximum allowed vacuum level within the pump is exceeded, such as when a swimming pool drain is obstructed, the sealing element moves into the inner chamber and opens the air inlet aperture causing the pump to rapidly lose its prime and enabling removal of the entrapment.

Abstract: An apparatus and system are disclosed for a pool drain cover, the cover having a perforated ramp around its perimeter to which are attached a plurality of straight, horizontally disposed tubes, circumscribing channels with substantially continuous cross-sectional areas, each tube enclosing a channel extending the length of the tube of at least six inches. The cross-sectional area of the tubes is kept at a minimum and their number is increased by arranging the tubes in rows and columns or giving the tubes an elliptical cross-sectional area and arranging them in a single row, thereby reducing the tapering in the tubes. The cover may be segmented and may be of multiple shapes, including a circle.

Abstract: A vacuum relief safety valve includes a housing defining an inner chamber and attached to the suction-side of the swimming pool or spa pump. An air inlet aperture is formed in the housing so as to be open to ambient air. A sealing element is disposed within the housing and biased against the air inlet aperture by a spring so as to effectively seal the inner chamber of the housing from ambient air. When a maximum allowed vacuum level within the pump is exceeded, such as when a swimming pool drain is obstructed, the sealing element moves into the inner chamber and opens the air inlet aperture causing the pump to rapidly lose its prime and enabling removal of the entrapment.

Abstract: A grate cover in combination with a swimming sump being installed in a recess in the top of the sump. The grate cover having a multiple of interstices or openings there through. The size of the interstices being held to a minimum so that fingers of a human cannot be sucked into the openings. The top surface of the grate cover has a curvature thereon while the bottom surface is flat. This way, the forceful suction within the sump cannot obtain enough force to suction the skin of a human against the grate cover to cause any injuries.

Abstract: The installation and removal of a portable but sturdy pool barrier fence uses the hardware installed for attaching a safety pool cover during the pool use season. Multiple rectangular panel frames support a mesh fabric. Each panel has a lower horizontal frame member with a series of slots accommodating the same fastener used to attach the pool cover coupling during the off-season. Sections of fencing panels are attached together using bi-fold hinges, which permit 360 degree rotation of one panel relative to an adjacent one. This allows storage of the barrier fence as a dense rectangular three dimensional unit by folding the panels upon each other accordion-like. Sections of fencing panels are joined together to form respective fence units to form the fence around the pool.

Abstract: A safety cover having a filter and an optional chemical dispenser, that covers and existing faceplate on a water vessel having a closed loop piping system and water pump. When the cover and filter cover an existing faceplate the cover and filter increases the vacuum on a suction line leading to a water pump by less than 5? Hg. The chemical in the dispenser releases in a metered dose of a substance having antimicrobial properties and the dose is in a sufficient amount to inhibit a growth of a microorganism in at least a segment of a water vessel. The combination of cover, filter and chemical chamber are disposable, or the filter is replaceable and the chemical in the chemical chamber is replenishable. The cover with filter and chemical chamber or just the cover and chemical chamber, or just the cover and filter are retrofitable to any existing faceplate on a water vessel having a closed looped piping system and a water pump.

Abstract: A hydraulic suction fuse is mounted in a conventional debris collection trap of a swimming pool, spa or the like, to significantly reduce or eliminate any suction force on the bottom or side wall mounted drain of the swimming pool, spa or the like, as a result of the drain becoming essentially wholly covered by a body part of a person or other drain clogging article. Alternatively, the hydraulic suction fuse may be mounted in a compartment in line between the drain and a suction pump of a swimming pool, spa or the like. Thereby, a person captured by the suction force at the drain will be released and the person is free to move away from the drain essentially instantaneously upon contact with the drain. The hydraulic suction fuse is self resetting once inflow through the drain is no longer restricted.

Abstract: A competitive swimming starting system for producing faster starts of competitive swimmers after the start of the race has been signaled. The competitive swimming starting system may include a platform structure for resting on a surface adjacent to a pool, and a light for illuminating to indicate a starting signal for a swimming race. In one embodiment of the invention, the light is mounted on the platform structure in the view of a person positioned on the starting platform structure. The present invention also contemplates a method of signaling the start of a swimming race, which includes providing a competitive swimming starting platform structure positioned adjacent to a pool, providing a light proximate to the starting platform structure in a location in the view of a person positioned on the starting platform structure, and illuminating the light to signal a start of a swimming race.