Abstract: A hanging assembly is disclosed for use with a flow generating device that produces a current in a pool. The hanging assembly includes a back supporting plate coupled to a side supporting plate where a plate angle is formed between the back supporting plate and the side supporting plate. The plate angle is adjustable such that a current angle of the current relative to a sidewall of the pool can be varied based on user preferences.

Abstract: A device and method for producing pulsating waves of energy for the massaging effect normally associated with high pressure jet systems in whirlpools, pedicure spas, bathtubs and other medical and non-medical devices. The jet assembly includes no external pipes and unlike “pipeless” jet assembly systems in use today, does not require disassembly or circulation of chemical cleaning agents to maintain a sanitary condition of the jet assembly.

Abstract: A device and method for producing pulsating waves of energy for the massaging effect normally associated with high pressure jet systems in whirlpools, pedicure spas, bathtubs and other medical and non-medical devices. The jet assembly includes no external pipes and unlike “pipeless” jet assembly systems in use today, does not require disassembly or circulation of chemical cleaning agents to maintain a sanitary condition of the jet assembly.

Abstract: A swim spa comprising a system that can provide information on the workout swim session based on a feedback control mechanism that provides the operating conditions of the flow regulator. Based on the information relating to the state of the flow regulator, the system is able to provide information regarding the water flow rate and possibly other information that may then be used to correlate or calculate information relating to the swim session. This is accomplished through the use of pre-recorded correlations between flow regulator settings and resulting water flow.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for substantially improving the energy efficiency of swimming pools having in-floor cleaning systems. Comprehensive data is provided demonstrating the improvement in cleaning capacity realized in a typical prior art pool before and after conversion to the present invention. Methods are disclosed for the reallocation of all or a substantial part of the increase in cleaning capacity toward a proportionate reduction in energy consumption by reducing the run time or operating speed of the pool pump motor while maintaining the same or a higher level of cleaning capacity achieved by the prior art.

Abstract: A method of controlling an ebb and flow watering system utilizing existing hardware commonly used in ebb and flow systems including float switches, water pumps, electromechanical timers, reservoir, control bucket, flood lines, indicator LEDs and plant containers such that the filling and draining of the control bucket is improved by accommodating for hydraulic delays, flood line restrictions, and pump limitations, while further providing constant monitoring for leaks or float switch failure, and shutting off the pumps if the same are determined.

Abstract: A swimming pool skimmer formed to include an integral disinfectant dispenser. The disinfectant dispenser is adapted to enable infinite adjustment to the level of disinfectant dispensed into the normal flow of the pool water. The skimmer includes a valve that is used to adjust the flow of water distributed to the disinfectant dispenser. The flow rate of water entering the dispensing chamber is controlled by the valve, which controls the water level within the dispensing chamber. The amount of water exiting the dispensing chamber is controlled by a vertically extending elongated flow slit. The higher the water level in the dispensing chamber causes more exposure to the chlorine tablets, increasing the chlorine level in the dispensing water. Chlorinated water exits the flow slit and enters the skimmer main chamber.

Abstract: A self-contained swimming pool for containment of water and generation of water currents therein for exercise, therapy and/or rehabilitation of a user comprising a rigid frame exteriorly located in relation to an inner water containment area. A set of water return channels in communication with the inner water containment area. A propulsion system in communication with the set of water return channels and the inner water containment area. A hydraulic system for driving the propulsion system using a hydraulic fluid to produce a current in the inner water containment area allowing positioning of a user in the current for exercise, therapy and or rehabilitation therein and wherein the hydraulic system is self-contained and mounted external of the rigid frame.

Abstract: Devices combining swimming pool skimmers, pumps, and removable, disposable filters into integral, sidewall-mounted systems for above-ground pools and other above-ground liquid containment enclosures, and methods for the use of such systems to remove both larger floating debris and smaller particulate matter to maintain water clarity and hygienic safety within such pools or like liquid containment enclosures are disclosed herein. Specifically, a ring-type above-ground pool comprising a base, a sidewall, and at least a portion of a cleaning system solely supported by the sidewall and mounted at a non-vertical angle such that it is substantially parallel to the sidewall.

Abstract: A pool fluid control system utilizes a fluid collection tank having an intake enclosure extending therefrom. The intake enclosure has an open grate which is configured to be positioned flush with the pool wall. Water which accumulates between the pool wall and the liner flows through the grate, into the intake enclosure, and then into the collection tank. A sump pump or other submersible pump within the collection tank then discharges the water out of the collection tank for disposal at a location away from the pool. This constant monitoring and then automatic removal of unwanted water from the space between the liner and the pool wall serves to maintain the integrity of the liner in relation to the wall.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a method of operating a safety vacuum release system (SVRS) with a controller for a pump including a motor. The method can include measuring an actual power consumption of the motor necessary to pump water and overcome losses. The method can include triggering the SVRS when a dynamic suction blockage is identified in order to shut down the pump substantially immediately. The SVRS can also be triggered when a dead head condition is identified based on the actual power consumption.

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: Embodiments of the invention provide a method of operating a safety vacuum release system (SVRS) with a controller for a pump including a motor. The method can include measuring an actual power consumption of the motor necessary to pump water and overcome losses. The method can include triggering the SVRS when a dynamic suction blockage is identified in order to shut down the pump substantially immediately. The SVRS can also be triggered when a dead head condition is identified based on the actual power consumption.

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: 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: The invention relates to apparatus driving circulation in baths, pools and the like, comprising a pump powered by a drive, further a filter section consisting of a housing and a cover, a filter being configured in said housing and being kinematically linked by hookup elements to the cover in a manner that said filter moves jointly with said cover.

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: One example of this application provides a method for manufacturing an above-ground heated pool used for swimming resistance exercise (exercise and swim spa), with an optional attached hot tub. Additionally, the rotationally-molded swim spa can support the addition of an integrated separate water vessel, used primarily for relaxation, that can maintain a separate water temperature from the swim spa section of the whole system. Other variations of this application have also been discussed.

Abstract: A main drain outlet and a water sanitation system for a swimming pool, wading pool, spa, or hot tub are provided. A main drain outlet comprises a cylindrical or toroidal sump, an inlet tangentially extending from the cylindrical or toroidal sump having an orifice with a length extending a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical or toroidal sump and a width substantially less than its length. The sump may have a curved inner surface throughout the length of the orifice. The main drain outlet may be of unitary assembly and may have more than one sump and inlet. The main drain outlet may comprise a testing strip. The pool water sanitation system may comprise skimmer flow equalizer lines in flow communication with a main drain outlet.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for circulating water in a bathing installation with a water circulation flow path and a tub for holding bathing water is described. A pump is submerged in a chamber in the circulation flow path so that the pump when operated provides a positive pump pressure to pump water through the circulation flow path from an inlet opening to an outlet opening. Thermal contact is provided between a pump housing surface and water in the chamber to allow heat transfer between the pump housing surface and water in the chamber.

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: A pump and alarm control promotes water safety and prevents entrapment in swimming pools, spas, and water features, such as fountains and waterfalls. The pump and alarm control monitors the vacuum on the influent side of a pump for the pool, spa and/or water feature and a two speed pump for a spa and automatically detects blockages in the pool, spa and/or water feature drains. The pump and alarm control is capable of detecting entrapment and blockages in different and distinct normal pressure operating conditions. Upon detecting a blockage the pump and alarm control shuts down pump operations and activates audible and visual alarms.

Abstract: A pumping system for moving water of a swimming pool includes a water pump, a variable speed motor, and an arrangement for controlling the variable speed motor. The pumping system further includes an auxiliary device operably connected to the arrangement for controlling, and an arrangement for providing two-way communication between the arrangement for controlling and the auxiliary device. The arrangement for controlling is capable of receiving a parameter from the auxiliary device through the arrangement for providing two-way communication. In one example, the arrangement for controlling is capable of independently controlling the variable speed motor without receipt of a parameter from the auxiliary device. In addition or alternatively, the arrangement for controlling is operable to selectively alter operation of the motor based upon the parameter.

Abstract: A portable jet stream device for swimming pools, comprising a housing in which a propeller is arranged which is driven by a drive motor, with the jet stream device having a holder for detachable positioning in the pool, said holder having a pedestal-like supporting foot which can be positioned on the floor of the pool and with which the housing is connected in a swivelable manner via at least one first holding strut. The supporting foot is formed by a base plate parallel to the floor of the swimming pool, with preferably the bottom side of the base plate being arranged to be planar and with a closed surface.

Abstract: A hot tub or spa (100) has a vanishing or overflow edge (110) not readily visible to a user. Water from the main holding area (101) overflows the edge (110) into a catch basin (102). A reservoir (120) holds a constant head of water to provide to a pump (112) and also allows for the holding of increased amounts of water displaced by users who are using the hot tub (100). Water flowing over the vanishing edge (110) flows into the catch basin (102) and thence to the reservoir (120) and pump (112) where the water is recirculated into the spa (100).

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 device for building a vanishing edge pool utilizing a prefabricated trough anchored to the exterior side of the weir wall of the pool so as to catch the overflow of the pool as it pours over the lower wall.

Abstract: An improved motor-driven pump is provided for delivering a flow of water in a swimming pool or spa environment or the like. The improved pump includes a motor mounted within a motor housing having a seal plate mounted at one end thereof. The seal plate carries a shaft bearing for rotatably supporting a drive shaft having an outboard end connected to an impeller disposed within a pump chamber defined cooperatively by the seal plate and a volute housing mounted thereon. A primary seal assembly includes an axially spring-loaded dynamic seal ring carried on the drive shaft for rotation therewith and for running engagement with a stationary bushing carried by the seal plate. A secondary seal assembly is positioned axially between the primary seal assembly and motor bearing, and includes at least one slinger disk for radially outwardly slinging any water leaking past the primary seal assembly through a vent chamber.

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 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 pool being installed in a recess in the top of a sump. The grate is formed of an upper and a lower section. Each of the upper and the lower section exhibit four quadrants therein. The upper section has dome-shaped configuration and has square shaped interstices therein. Each of the quadrants of the upper section has a concave curvature therein at a transition between the upper and the lower section. Each of the quadrants of the lower section have two concave 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. This way, the forceful suction within the sump cannot obtain enough force to suction the skin of a human onto the grate cover to cause any injuries.

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 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 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.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A dry suction fitting assembly is provided for drawing water from a spa, whirlpool bathtub or other suitable water tub to a pump, featuring a suction body for arranging in relation to a wall of the spa, whirlpool bathtub or other suitable water tub. The suction body is arranged in relation to a wall of the spa, whirlpool bathtub or other suitable water tub, has a suction inlet for coupling to the pump, and has an internal surface with an equilibrium tube arranged therein with three openings, a first opening that acts as a water flow inlet, a second opening that is open to the atmosphere via a connection hose or other suitable connection device and that is filled with water during normal operation, and a third opening that is a safety orifice coupled to the suction inlet. During normal operation water flows from the first opening, through the equilibrium tube, and out the third opening.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A skimmer system is provided which includes a reservoir, an inlet, a reservoir pump and a weir. The skimmer system may be attached to a tank having fluid therein. The fluid in the tank defines a tank fluid surface, and the fluid in the reservoir defines a reservoir fluid surface. The reservoir receives fluid from the tank via the inlet, and the tank receives fluid from the reservoir via the reservoir pump. When the skimmer system is activated, the level of the reservoir fluid surface may be maintained below the level of the tank fluid surface. The inlet edge is located below the level of the tank fluid surface. The inlet surface may decline away from the tank to direct the fluid from the tank to the reservoir. The filter is positioned between the inlet and the reservoir to retain particulate within the fluid. The weir defines a weir edge.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A method to make a whirlpool bathtub where bacteria growth is inhibited or bacteria is reduced, after tub drain down and between electrical system activation.

Abstract: A skimmer system is provided which includes a reservoir, an inlet, a reservoir pump and a weir. The skimmer system is attached to a tank having fluid therein. The fluid in the tank defines a tank fluid surface. The reservoir receives fluid from the tank. The fluid in the reservoir defines a reservoir fluid surface. The level of the reservoir fluid surface is maintained below the level of the tank fluid surface when the skimmer system is turned on. The inlet defines an inlet edge and an inlet surface. The inlet edge is located below the level of the tank fluid surface. The inlet surface declines away from the tank to transfer the fluid from the tank to the reservoir. The reservoir pump transfers fluid from the reservoir to the tank. The filter is positioned between the inlet and the reservoir to retain particulate within the fluid. The weir defines a weir edge.

Abstract: A device and method to inhibit bacteria in a whirlpool bathtub and its closed looped plumbing system between each whirlpool bathtub drain down as well as during each whirlpool bathtub use. In addition to combining a high flow antimicrobial chamber with a suction device, the present invention incorporates safety features.

Abstract: 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 form the top to the base.

Abstract: A vacuum surge suppressor for swimming pool safety valves. These valves normally sense and then instantly relieve excessively high vacuum levels in the pool's drain line. Such high vacuum levels occur when an individual becomes trapped by the suction at the pool's drain port which is connected to the drain line. The valve relieves the high vacuum level in the pool's drain line and the suction at the drain port by bleeding air into the pool's drain line, causing the pump connected to the drain line to lose prime. However, the safety function and indeed the entire function of the pool's drain system can be disabled by a short duration vacuum surge which occurs when the pump starts. The present invention suppresses the surge before it reaches the safety valve, thereby permitting the pool and the valve to function despite the presence of such short duration surges.

Abstract: A switching assembly that can be used on a spa, pool, bathtub, or aquarium shell without the need to form a hole in the shell. The switching assembly includes an actuator that is mounted on an interior surface of the shell and is exposed at least in part to water held by the shell. The actuator may be mounted above or below the water line. The switching assembly also includes a switch that is responsive to the actuator and is mounted on the opposite, exterior surface of the shell. The switch responds to stimulus from the actuator without the need to form a hole in the shell between the switch and the actuator. The actuator may include a magnet that produces a magnetic field, and the switch may include a reed switch, which changes state in response to the absence or presence of the magnetic field generated by the actuator magnet. The magnet may be supported by a button attached to the shell, and the button protects the magnet from exposure to water and chemicals held in the shell.

Abstract: A system to sanitize water in a whirlpool bathtub, spa, swimming pool, and other water vessels comprising improvements to U.S. Pat. No. 6,395,167 and incorporating an integral top fill antimicrobial injector not in the prior art. The system also practices the adding of antimicrobial additives to the water vessel system components, which include but are not limited to the system's piping, pump, jets, acrylic sheet and fiberglass/resin reinforcements.

Abstract: An automatic shutoff valve that can be easily installed in a swimming pool skimmer, that will prevent the flow of air through the suction outlet when the water level drops below the minimum level required to maintain buoyancy of the automatic shutoff valve's float. The valve is designed to automatically reset to normal when a sufficient level of liquid is restored in the pool and skimmer assembly, and any suction acting on the outflow portion of the valve is briefly interrupted to release the float from its position on the valve seat. During operation, the valve protects the pool's circulating pump from damage that could result from becoming air-bound ad losing its prime, as a result of sucking air through the skimmer's bottom outlet.

Abstract: 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.