Including Water Inlet Or Outlet Means Patents (Class 4/507)
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Publication number: 20090120856Abstract: A device to allow animals trapped in a swimming pool skimmer to escape via a helical ramp integrally attached to a skimmer cover with an exit hole in the top. The invention provides for the replacement of an existing skimmer cover with the said invention to provide a simple hassle free solution to the drowning of small animals that get caught in the skimmer assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2007Publication date: May 14, 2009Inventor: Brian M. Meagher
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Patent number: 7478441Abstract: A water ride for swimmers is provided, the ride having a pool with a body of water, an elongated tubular chamber, a compressed air system, and a water make up system. The chamber is substantially closed at one end, which is positioned generally underneath the bottom of the pool. The chamber is substantially open at the other end, which extends to provide a substantially vertical portion having an exposed length within the pool. Application of compressed air to the chamber produces an upsurge within the pool that cascades down to produce radiating swells. The upsurge and radiating swells provide a ride having a sliding effect for swimmers.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2008Date of Patent: January 20, 2009Inventor: Garrett T. Johnson
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Patent number: 7472430Abstract: A laminar flow waterfall in the form of a single or multiple streams of water, each exiting from a nozzle in the top edge of a spa. The laminar water stream is created by a venturi nozzle located in a plenum chamber. The inlet side of the nozzle has a cover with a plurality of small holes forcing the water flow to enter the nozzle as laminar flow. A flow divider inside the venturi nozzle, from the inlet to the restriction of the nozzle, maintains the flow laminar through the nozzle. Light is injected into the flow divider at the inlet and is carried by the flow divider to be injected into the water flow at the restriction of the nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2006Date of Patent: January 6, 2009Assignee: Watkins Manufacturing CorporationInventors: Chris H. McDonald, Douglas R. Gastineau, Richard Kunkel, Larry Childerston
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Patent number: 7461416Abstract: A portable water heating system for use with a spa. The heating system circulates water from a spa, heats the water and returns the heated water to the spa. The portable heating system includes a housing that encloses a heater and a pump; a water intake hose; a water outlet hose; and a thermostat. The heating system may also include temperature-setting dials and flow and pressure regulating switches. A thermostat is also disposed within the portable spa heating system and is attached to the heater. The thermostat may be set to a predetermined temperature so that the heater, and therefore water temperature, may be controlled.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2006Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Inventor: John J. Stover
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Patent number: 7451500Abstract: A skimmer door assembly for use with a skimmer having an opening therein, having a face plate for matingly engaging the skimmer around the opening of the skimmer. The face plate has an opening therein which communicates with the opening of the skimmer. A raised rib portion extends around a periphery of the opening of the face plate. A cover has a first, planar wall which closes the opening of the face plate. The cover has a groove formed on the planar wall which engages the rib of the face plate for sealing the face plate to prevent water from entering the opening of the face plate.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2006Date of Patent: November 18, 2008Assignee: Conceptual Plastic Creations, LLCInventors: Darrell L. Baker, Jr., Mark P. Fowler
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Publication number: 20080244822Abstract: A pool and spa plumbing adapter to relocate existing directional water flow plumbing fittings to new positions to accommodate new surfacing overlaid on the existing pool or spa surface. The adaptor provides for a threaded engagement with existing plumbing and has a shoulder portion providing a visual cue for proper rotational translation of the adaptor into the existing plumbing fitting to accommodate the new surface layer. A sealing ring can be provided extending above the shoulder portion to prevent fluid passage between the new surface and the adapter and to prevent rotation of the adaptor.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2007Publication date: October 9, 2008Inventors: Olaf W. Mjelde, Wade H. Arens
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Publication number: 20080209626Abstract: The fluid return jet fitting and face plate includes a removable face plate for covering the outwardly-facing or exposed surface of a fluid nozzle body flange, cap, eyeball fitting, or the like. The device includes a body portion for covering the flange or cap, and at least one pin projecting from a rear surface of the body portion that is movable into and out of alignment with a corresponding slot disposed on the flange or cap, the slot defining an opening therethrough to cause the face plate to be retained in, or released from, engagement with the flange. The face plates exposed surfaces have a decorative theme design, such as a glow-in-the-dark starfish, sea shell, sand dollar, turtle, or the like to coordinate with an aquatic environment as presented by a swimming pool, a wading pool, jacuzzi or the like.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2007Publication date: September 4, 2008Inventor: Kristopher P. Thiel
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Patent number: 7419588Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Inventor: Robert B. Lawson
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Patent number: 7419590Abstract: A liquid treatment method and system with the liquid treatment system having a container for holding a liquid treatment material therein with the liquid treatment device effectively positionable in various transitional regions in the liquid system to provide for an enhanced dispersant rate in response to increased activity in the body of water.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: King TechnologyInventors: Joseph A. King, Jeffrey D. Johnson
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Publication number: 20080163415Abstract: A structure for installing grate bars in a swimming pool having straight and curved section. The pool has a top gutter formed in concrete. The grate bars follow the concept of being parallel to a pool wall. A multiple of spaced apart elements support elements are placed over the gutter at predetermined intervals and fastened to the top of the concrete. A pre-assembled grid of longitudinal grate bars is placed over the support elements and fastened thereto. The pre-assembled grate bars are held together by lateral stays. In the curved section, individual grate bars placed onto the support elements one by one and are bent into the respective curves of the gutter. the individual grate bars are received between the spaces of the knobs on the support elements and snap fitted therein.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventor: Robert B. Lawson
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Patent number: 7395559Abstract: A water level controller for a pool has a water level sensor immersed in the pool. A processor detects if the sensor senses low water. A transmitter sends a radio frequency signal to a receiver if the processor detects the low water. The receiver turns on a valve to add water to the pool. The transmitter and processor are contained in a waterproof housing. A main power switch is located internally in the housing, and moves between on and off positions by inverting the housing. A wave filter timer within the processor turns on for a selected interval when the processor detects low water. The receiver has an overfill counter that turns on for a selected interval when the receiver receives the low water signal. The receiver resets the overfill counter prior to reaching the selected count each time that the receiver receives a low water signal.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2004Date of Patent: July 8, 2008Assignee: Sons Design & Manufacturing, Inc.Inventors: J. Clifton Gibson, J. James Seivert
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Patent number: 7384544Abstract: A canister filter for use with a swimming pool water circulation and filtration system includes a lower manifold with two pump fittings so that two pumps may be connected to one filtration canister. The canister also has an upper manifold with two fittings for connections to different main drains, an equilizer port fitting, and a relief port fitting. The canister housing may optionally contain a venturi tube that can be used to augment the suction of a single pump to allow the elimination of a second pump, or, alternatively, allow additional main drains to be added to the pool without increasing the number of pumps. The single canister filter can thus be used with two pumps and drains or two sets of drains, while providing relief in the event the drains are blocked.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2005Date of Patent: June 10, 2008Inventors: Jonathan E. Meincke, Fred Brindisi
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Patent number: 7370668Abstract: A valve assembly for use in winterizing a swimming pool closes to prevent pool water from entering into a pool pipe situated below the water line and opens to allow fluid or air to be pumped out of the pool pipes, including an adaptor having threads for attachment to a hose so the pipe contents may be pumped directly into the hose and out of the pool.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2004Date of Patent: May 13, 2008Inventor: Dimce Vasilev
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Publication number: 20080098506Abstract: A fluid vortex inducing component adapted for placement between an anti-vortex drain cover of a pool or spa and the underlying drain. The device employs radially oriented blades to induce a cyclonic or vortex flow to the plurality of individual linear fluid streams traversing passages in the sidewall of the drain cover to enhance fluid flow in the underlying drain. It may be installed as a new part to existing or new drains or in a method for retrofitting existing drains a component to induce the vortex to drained water can be installed.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 25, 2006Publication date: May 1, 2008Inventors: Olaf W. Mjelde, Wade H. Arens
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Publication number: 20080098507Abstract: The present invention provides a swimming pool safety system including a housing having a first opening for coupling to a pump, a second opening for coupling to a pool drain, and a third opening for receiving water form a surface of a pool. The present invention may include a skimmer basket positionable in the housing, where the skimmer basket defines a debris-retaining region and a member having a passage therethrough. A method of use of the present invention is also provided in which the housing may be configured to reduce an entrapment force experienced at a pool drain, and to further provide a fluid flow path through the debris-retaining region of the skimmer basket to place the first opening of the housing in fluid communication with the surrounding atmosphere. A collector vessel may also be included, the collector vessel having an adjustable extension element to modify a resulting entrapment force.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 1, 2007Publication date: May 1, 2008Inventors: George S. Pellington, Paul E. Pennington, Shane Stevens
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Patent number: 7346938Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2004Date of Patent: March 25, 2008Inventors: Roy W. Mattson, Jr., Paulette C. Ogden, Philip I. Ogden
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Patent number: 7344639Abstract: A swimming pool water circulation system includes up to two sets of at least two active main drains connected to a “Y” or a “double Y” connector and then, via a single line, to a single canister filter. Jet nozzles arranged in at least one bank on the pool walls use return water to sweep sediment down the pool walls and to cause a vortical flow of the water above the drains. The additional main drains can be deployed closer to the pool walls where they can better intercept sediment from the jet nozzles. Up to two pumps can service each canister filter. Additional suction may be obtained by diverting a portion of the water from the pressure side of the filter through a venturi in the canister filet housing. Additional components and valves managed by a controller can facilitate sequential cleaning of the pool by zones during normal operation without unduly affecting normal filtration of pool water and can provide for additional cleaning via robotic devices.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2005Date of Patent: March 18, 2008Inventor: Jonathan E. Meincke
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Patent number: 7329343Abstract: Water treatment bypass loops combining ozone and chlorine injection, and an adaptable clamp apparatus to support efficient retrofit installation of forward bypass loops (around filters) or reverse bypass loops (around pumps) and associated equipment are disclosed. Combined injection of ozone and chlorine exploits high oxidation potential of ozone to enhance oxidation effectiveness of chlorine while still retaining longer lived residual effectiveness of chlorine, particularly against biological and organic contaminants. A method for reducing costs of salt chlorine generation electrolysis cells and power supplies by using ozone to reduce deposit buildup on electrode plates is also disclosed, as is an apparatus for generating chlorine for use in water treatment in bathing facilities without requiring addition of sodium chloride or other halogen salts to water in a swimming pool or spa.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2005Date of Patent: February 12, 2008Inventor: Ronald L. Barnes
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Patent number: 7311820Abstract: A water distribution header for a swimming pool recirculation system includes a nozzle having an arcuate face with a plurality of dispensing apertures positioned thereon. The dispensing apertures are in fluid communication with an inlet having a ball joint thereon that is coupled with the filtering system return line. The ball joint allows the angle between the header and return line to be selectively varied to assure that the nozzle is directed toward the bottom surface of the pool. Accordingly, the nozzle directs multiple, radially projecting streams of water toward the bottom of the pool thereby propelling any large debris resting thereon toward the filtering system intake drain.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Inventor: C. Arthur Anderson
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Patent number: 7311821Abstract: A water circulation unit includes an ejector (142), a convergent, and a pipe (146) which is arranged in the extension of the convergent. The ejection axis practically merges with the symmetry axis of the convergent, the two axes forming a common axis of the unit, and the distance between the water outlet of the ejector (142) and the downstream section of the convergent is between 0.4 and 1.6 times the length of the convergent. A guiding region is located just upstream of the upstream section of the convergent following the common axis, at least up to the water outlet of the ejector (142) when the outlet is located outside the convergent, the region ensuring that the water is essentially symmetrically guided around the common axis during the operation of the ejector. In a filter unit, a cartridge (154) is arranged around the water circulation unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2004Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Inventor: Joël Queirel
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Patent number: 7306718Abstract: A pool/spa skimmer includes a housing and a face plate opening into the housing. The face plate is dimensioned to allow water to flow in a vertical column between it and the housing. In one embodiment, a flexible weir gate is coupled to the face plate and flexes under draw of water by a pump to allow flow of water into the skimmer. The interior of the housing has a curved wall so that when a column of water passes the face plate into the housing, a whirlpool effect is realized.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2004Date of Patent: December 11, 2007Assignee: ThermoSpas, Inc.Inventor: W. John Gardenier
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Patent number: 7300576Abstract: A swimming pool cleaning system includes a pump, a first tube coupling a suction port of the pump in fluid communication with a main drain or mobile cleaning device which draws water and settled debris from the bottom of the pool, and a skimming device including an entrainment nozzle and a safety tube. The entrainment nozzle is coupled by a second tube to a coupling device which diverts a small portion of pool return water pumped from an outlet port of the pump. The safety tube extends from above the water line and above the debris trap in the skimmer to the body of the skimmer below the debris trap. Most of the pool return water is pumped into a rotary distribution valve, various outlets of which are connected to various pool cleaning heads embedded in an inner surface of the pool. A single low-horsepower pump produces simultaneous effective skimming and operation of embedded cleaning heads.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2005Date of Patent: November 27, 2007Assignee: Shasta Industries, Inc.Inventor: Andy F. Blake
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Publication number: 20070266489Abstract: A swimming pool drain system is disclosed. The swimming pool drain system includes an open trough with an elongated inlet and two outlets wherein the inside of the trough is free from entrapment hazards. The swimming pool drain system prevents individuals from being entangled in the drain because of their hair, clothing, or body parts.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2006Publication date: November 22, 2007Inventor: James Martin
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Patent number: 7296308Abstract: The invention comprises, in one form thereof, a water circulator that connects to the pressurized water inlet in a swimming pool. Water from the pool is pumped through the pool's filter system and into the water circulator through the pool inlet. The water circulator includes a jet tube that is vertically oriented and proximate to the pool's side wall. The pressurized water exits the jet tube through several nozzles in the jet tube. The nozzles direct the pressurized water along the side wall to thereby direct debris toward the pool outlet. The pool outlet carries the debris and water to the pool's filter system. The nozzles direct the water away from the pool outlet so that the water current travels along the majority of the side wall before reaching the pool outlet. Thus, more debris may be picked up in the current and slower moving water passes the pool outlet. The jet tube further includes one or more outlets proximate to the pool floor.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2004Date of Patent: November 20, 2007Inventor: John B. Turner
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Patent number: 7293300Abstract: A waterfall for a portable spa does not take up any seat space by being set into the top rim of the spa. Water from the spa circulation system flows into a closed end of a channel located in the top rim and along the channel to the open end located at the edge of the top rim on the inside wall to fall into the body of water in the spa. A light source at the point where the water enters the closed end of the channel, which may be adapted to change colors, directs light into the water flow, lighting the water that falls into the spa, in different colors, as desired.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2004Date of Patent: November 13, 2007Assignee: Watkins Manufacturing CorporationInventor: Richard Kunkel
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Patent number: 7291260Abstract: A skimmer for a pool includes a skimmer guard that is installed by friction only, and without the use of separate fasteners. The skimmer guard includes a perforated plate which acts as a strainer, preventing debris from the pool from entering the skimmer. The skimmer guard is inserted into gap between heads of a double-headed screw which is permanently screwed into the pool wall. The skimmer guard can be removed, and re-installed, simply by sliding the skimmer guard out of, or into, the gap. The skimmer guard can therefore be removed and re-installed without the use of separate fasteners, and without the use of tools. The skimmer guard can be removed and replaced with a non-perforated cover, at the end of the swimming season.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2005Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Inventor: Nandor Mullner, Jr.
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Patent number: 7276157Abstract: A swimming pool strainer formed of a substantially U-shaped housing including an end panel with a pair of spaced side panels perpendicularly extending therefrom. Positioned between the side panels are a plurality of spacer dowels that enhance the structural integrity of the housing. An upper screen and a lower screen are secured to the upper and lower surfaces of the housing respectively. Free ends of the side panels are inserted into a swimming pool skimmer until a free edge of each screen abuts the swimming pool wall. Accordingly, the screens trap leaves and other large debris that would otherwise enter and damage a circulating filtering system.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2005Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventor: Kenneth G. Woods
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Patent number: 7254847Abstract: A flat ribbon-shaped waterfall for a portable spa is caused to flow out of the top rim or top side of a spa. A narrow elongated spout forms the output end of a plenum chamber that has a water inlet. The plenum chamber is constructed to baffle surges in the inlet water flow. A light source is placed close to the mouth of the elongated spout to light the ribbon of water flowing from the spout in multi-color, if desired.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2004Date of Patent: August 14, 2007Assignee: Watkins Manufacturing CorporationInventor: Richard Kunkel
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Patent number: 7229027Abstract: Devices for producing waterfalls, which provide a decorative effect in pools, spas, bathtubs, and sinks. The devices include a water inlet, and a water chamber connected to the water inlet. An elongated water outlet is connected to the water chamber, such that water exiting the water outlet forms a waterfall-type flow. In one arrangement, a light chamber including at least one lamp is included. The light chamber has a window which allows light generated by the lamp to shine through the water outlet. In another arrangement, the elongated water outlet is provided on an outlet insert, the insert and water chamber having complementary inclined surfaces such that the outlet insert may be positioned at varying distances from the water chamber. In a further arrangement, a plurality of pins are located at the egress of the water chamber, the pins acting as baffles to the flow of water through the device.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Nexxus Lighting, Inc.Inventors: Adrian Ehresman, Paul Koren, Daniel Kim
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Patent number: 7220353Abstract: A pool/spa skimmer includes a housing, a face plate, and a flexible weir gate. The housing and plate are dimensioned to allow water to flow in a vertical column. The interior of the housing has a curved wall so that when a column of water passes through the open gate and into the housing, a whirlpool effect is realized. A vertical filter cartridge is mounted on a rotational bearing so that it can spin about its axis. The inlet of a pump is coupled to the cartridge via the bearing and is also coupled to a second water inlet via a vacuum operated valve. The outlet of the pump is also coupled to a water jet which is arranged to enhance the whirlpool effect.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2005Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Assignee: ThermoSpas, Inc.Inventor: W. John Gardenier
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Patent number: 7203977Abstract: A fill and drain hydromassage water vessel having an acrylic surface, resin and fiberglass backing and antimicrobial in components of the water vessel system. The antimicrobial reduces bacteria in the water vessel system.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2005Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Inventors: Roy W. Mattson, Jr., Paulette C. Ogden, Philip I. Ogden
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Patent number: 7200879Abstract: A waterfall waterjet that can be attached to a spa, with at least one chamber, at least one primary outlet, at least one debris outlet that can be opened and closed, and a water source fluidly connected to the waterfall waterjet.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2004Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Custom Molded Products LLCInventors: H. Charles Li, Robert D. Moore
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Patent number: 7195708Abstract: A skimmer for a pool includes a skimmer guard that is installed by friction only, and without the use of separate fasteners. In one embodiment, the skimmer guard includes a perforated portion surrounded by a peripheral lip, the lip being shaped for engagement with a flange formed on a frame mounted to a skimmer opening. The skimmer guard is inserted onto the flange, and thus prevents debris from entering the skimmer. In another embodiment, the skimmer guard includes a perforated face plate and a plug, the plug being sized for frictional engagement with a skimmer opening. In all cases, the skimmer guard is inserted without the use of separate fasteners, and without the use of tools. The skimmer guard can be removed and replaced with a non-perforated version, at the end of the swimming season.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Inventor: Nandor Mullner, Jr.
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Patent number: 7194774Abstract: A plenum chamber mounted to the underside of a filter cover of a portable spa provides a source of constant water flow for a waterfall. The plenum chamber is fed by a line from a water flow system of the portable spa. The plenum chamber has a shaped exit that causes a predetermined waterfall effect. A light source located at the shaped exit lights up the waterfall. Another light source is located in the filter housing to create backdrop lighting for the waterfall. The light sources are preferably fiber optic or arrays.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Watkins Manufacturing CorporationInventor: Neil Bergstrom
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Patent number: 7178179Abstract: A drain for swimming pools, spas, whirlpool baths, etc., includes a plurality of first orifices in communication with corresponding serpentine passageways to minimize hair or a body part from covering and entering the first orifices to a degree sufficient to entrap a bather. A plurality of second orifices independent of the first orifices and in fluid communication with one another through a peripheral passageway provide a flow of water from the peripheral passageway into the serpentine passageways to create an alternate water inflow path and reduce the pressure differential and possible entrapment that might occur should a body part or hair come in contact with or enter the first orifices. Moreover, a plurality of ridges are attendant the first orifices to reduce the likelihood of direct contact with the first orifices by a body part or hair.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2004Date of Patent: February 20, 2007Assignee: Paramount Leisure Industries, Inc.Inventor: Steven R. Barnes
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Patent number: 7162752Abstract: A laminar flow waterfall in the form of a single or multiple streams of water, each exiting from a nozzle in the top edge of a spa. The laminar water stream is created by a venturi nozzle located in a plenum chamber. The inlet side of the nozzle has a cover with a plurality of small holes forcing the water flow to enter the nozzle as laminar flow. A flow divider inside the venturi nozzle, from the inlet to the restriction of the nozzle, maintains the flow laminar through the nozzle. Light is injected into the flow divider at the inlet and is carried by the flow divider to be injected into the water flow at the restriction of the nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2004Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Assignee: Watkins Manufacturing CorporationInventors: Chris H. McDonald, Douglas R. Gastineau, Richard Kunkel, Larry Childerston
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Patent number: 7160446Abstract: A filter housing for a portable spa utilizes a coaxial channel structure at the flow output of the filter housing to separate the water flow from the filter housing. In one embodiment, the water from the filter housing, exiting at the bottom of the housing, is piped by way of a high pressure pump, to the jets in the spa. The water from the filter housing taken at about halfway between the top and bottom of the filter housing is piped, by way of a circulation pump to a heater and a water purifier system back into the spa, preferably to a return aperture in the footwell of the spa. In another embodiment water exiting the filter housing is split into separate flow paths at the bottom of the filter housing, to the jets in the spa and into the circulation loop back into the spa.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2004Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Assignee: Watkins Manufacturing CorporationInventor: Neil Bergstrom
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Patent number: 7152255Abstract: A pool return nozzle assembly, wherein water enters through the gear sleeve assembly causing the turbine blade assembly to turn, which then causes the oscillation of the gear assembly and which then contributes to the revolution of the rotor head for smooth rotation. The assembly focuses on circulating water along the walls of the pool down to the radius and floor of the pool; therefore, enhancing the effectiveness of pool cleaning and return distribution of the water to the pool. The assembly can also be converted into a water fountain with its optional fountain design, which includes a spray head to create aesthetic water spray and fountain characteristics. Internal components are configured to allow water passageways that will direct sand particulates away from working components thereby providing a self-cleaning capability.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2006Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: Welden Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Wesley T. Welden
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Patent number: 7146658Abstract: The invention relates to a pool skimmer including first and second tubular members that are telescopically displaceable with respect to one another, flotation means for suspending it substantially vertically in a body of water, and a tubular connector mounted on the second tubular member in liquid communication with a space defined within the tubular members and defining connector formations for connecting it in line with a hose of a pool pump. In operation in a body of water, the pump creates suction in the tubular connector and surface water flows via a weir defined by the top of the first tubular member, into the said space, via the tubular connector, and into the pool hose. The tubular members define in their side walls apertures that increasingly come into register as overlap of the members increase, thereby permitting water to flow via the apertures directly into the said space.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2002Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Inventor: Douglas Frank Rea Lyall
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Patent number: 7146659Abstract: A fill and drain jetted hydromassage whirlpool bathtub having a tub made of acrylic, resin and fiberglass. The whirlpool bathtub having a water system with drain down water features and components made of a material having an antimicrobial therein. Bacteria reduction occurs in the water vessel system where the antimicrobial is therein. The non-porous acrylic surface, the drain down features and the antimicrobial surfaces provide an economic sanitation level for hydromassage jetted whirlpool bathtub.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2005Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Inventors: Roy W. Mattson, Jr., Paulette C. Ogden, Philip I. Ogden
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Patent number: 7146657Abstract: A water equipment attachment apparatus. The water attachment equipment apparatus provides a means to attach water equipment such as ladders, handrails, sports equipment, chairs and other equipment into a containing structure of a contained body of water such as swimming pool, fountain, decretive pond, etc. including a flexible material liner such as a vinyl liner. The water attachment equipment apparatus can be attached to a top, side or bottom of the containing structure of contained body of water through the vinyl liner without leaking and provides structural support for any attached water equipment.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2004Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Inventor: Mark G. Jahnke
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Patent number: 7144515Abstract: An improved pool skimmer apparatus and method that enhances the effectiveness of a swimming pool skimmer assembly. In particular, my inventive method and apparatus makes pool skimmers more effective at capturing floating debris and directing it to the pool filter system where it is removed from the pool water. According to my invention, a skimmer basket assembly includes an open top, cylindrical sidewalls, and a mesh bottom. Disposed along the sidewalls are a plurality of “fins” or “blades”, positioned such that water entering the basket assembly develops a circular flow, causing floating debris to be drawn down into the filtering system. In this manner, particularly difficult to remove floating debris, such as pollen, are drawn down to be filtered rather than remain floating on a top portion of skimmer and/or pool water.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2004Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Inventor: Brandyn Brosemer
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Patent number: 7089607Abstract: The swimming pool floor or spa floor drain assembly of the present invention includes a drain body having a mouth positionable in proximity to the pool wall to serve as a fluid flow inlet, a spaced apart fluid flow outlet positionable below the mouth and a sidewall interconnecting the mouth with the outlet to define a fluid flow chamber. The cross sectional area of the fluid flow chamber decreases from the mouth to the base. A fluid deflecting plug includes a comparatively large area top and a comparatively small area base. A sidewall interconnects the top and base to form the plug with a cross sectional area decreasing from the top to the base.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2004Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Assignee: Paramount Leisure Industries, Inc.Inventors: Steven R. Barnes, John M. Goettl
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Patent number: 7089606Abstract: 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. In one embodiment of the hydraulic suction fuse, the hydraulic suction fuse may be easily manually reset.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2005Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Assignee: Paramount Leisure Industries, Inc.Inventor: John M. Goettl
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Patent number: 7055189Abstract: 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. In one embodiment, the hydraulic suction fuse is self resetting once inflow through the drain is no longer restricted. In another embodiment of the hydraulic suction fuse, the hydraulic suction fuse may be easily manually reset.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2004Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Assignee: Paramount Leisure Industries, Inc.Inventor: John M. Goettl
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Patent number: 7052602Abstract: A flat shaped skimmer intake guard having hooks for attachment of the guard to the water intake to prevent intake from becoming blocked by medium and large toys, floatation devices, noodles, other pool accessories and man-made devices floating in the swimming pool or the like.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2004Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Inventors: Karen L. Boggs, Gary L. Boggs
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Patent number: 7014753Abstract: An electrolytic cell combined into a unitary structure with a liquid circulation fitting, which purifies water by electrode plates inside the cell when an aqueous solution is present. The unitary structure replaces the existing water return fitting. This integrated structure is well suited for use in pools, tubs, spas, fountains or similar large liquid containers. The production of halogen inside the structure is not required to coincide with the cycle of the existing pool filtration system. Rather, the electrodes receive a continuous supply of low level power and the halogen produced inside the structure is disbursed back into the body of water through the fitting using an integrated, dedicated circulation pump, special channels in the surface and a check valve to insure one directional flow from the pool pump and natural convection. Using fresh water drawn from the vessel, halogen is then disbursed back into the vessel with the water at a location different from where the fresh water was drawn.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2004Date of Patent: March 21, 2006Assignee: Smartpool Inc.Inventors: Richard Holstein, Joseph Hui
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Patent number: 6997431Abstract: Disclosed herein is a childproof valve for a swimming pool. In one embodiment, the valve may include a valve body having an inlet and an outlet and a flow-passage extending therebetween, a plunger movable within the valve body between closed and open positions to either close or open the flow-passage, a tap mounted to the valve body, and a clutch device interposed between the tap and the plunger and co-operating with the tap such that rotation of the tap will not move the plunger unless the tap is first moved axially.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Aqua-Leisure Industries, Inc.Inventor: Kuang Cheung Yuan
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Patent number: 6988282Abstract: A drain cover for a swimming pool, spa or tub drain that includes a hollow tube or shell having a slot formed in a wall therein and a fitting connecting the drain cover with respect to the drain.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2004Date of Patent: January 24, 2006Assignee: Triodyne Safety Systems, LLCInventors: Ralph Lipsey Barnett, Peter Joseph Poczynok
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Patent number: 6989094Abstract: The pool skimmer screen is a device for preventing debris, bees, and other small insects and animals from being lodged in the pool skimmer. The skimmer screen, removably mounted to the swimming pool wall in front of the pool skimmer mouth, includes a substantially rigid support frame having a screen fitted taut therein. The skimmer screen includes a plurality of magnets mounted on the rear of the frame whereby the skimmer screen may be magnetically attached to the metallic surface of an above-ground swimming pool. The skimmer screen may be adapted for attachment to a swimming pool having plaster, tile or other non-metallic surface by the use of metallic pads mounted to the wall of the swimming pool and positioned to adhere to the magnets of the skimmer screen.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2004Date of Patent: January 24, 2006Inventors: Shepherd L. Knapp, Cynthia M. Knapp