Open Top, Embedded Container, Tank, Or Reservoir Patents (Class 52/169.7)
  • Patent number: 7861471
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for constructing edging around the perimeter of a swimming pool having a decking and a retractable pool cover, wherein an elongated guide connector is attached to a wall of the swimming pool for connecting to a guide member for the pool cover, that includes a form member shaped to form the edging, and a form mating structure on the form member for removably mating the form member to the elongated guide connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Coverstar, LLC
    Inventor: Lanny R. Smith
  • Patent number: 7797887
    Abstract: A system for making a liquid-retaining wall, and such a wall, such as a swimming pool wall, from prefabricated plane panels, the system comprising assembly means for assembling together two consecutive vertically-disposed panels, a low belt which supports the panels, and a high belt which is fitted to the panels, the assembly means holding together two assembled-together panels while allowing one of the panels to move angularly relative to the other about a vertical axis, and also including angle-determining means for ensuring that at least two consecutive panels are at a determined angular orientation relative to each other, and further including stiffening means for stiffening the assembled panels wherein each angle-determining means is constituted by a part presenting two arms that form a determined angle relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Diffusion Equipments Loisirs
    Inventor: Alain Maupas
  • Patent number: 7793468
    Abstract: A blind adapted for easier access than that of traditional hunting blinds. A dual blind including easier access to the blind. A blind with a flip open entry which may then be closed, leaving only the traditional single person sized opening or openings open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventor: Howard Dysle
  • Patent number: 7784227
    Abstract: Modular pool constructive design whose walls are constituted by metallic panels (17, 18, 19), made up by folding metallic sheets, comprising a bottom including a structure that supports a plurality of metallic panels-tiles (16) —said walls (11, 12, 13, 14) are connected to said bottom's structure, making up a unique and non-deformable structure, all the pool's elements are interlinked by semi-permanent connecting means, such as screws and nuts. The dimensions of the pool's elements allow its easy transport in small vehicles or buildings' elevators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: WBA Consultoria e Vendas Internacionais LTDA
    Inventor: José Luiz Whitaker Ribeiro
  • Publication number: 20100199574
    Abstract: Non-limiting, illustrative systems and methods for collecting rain water are disclosed. Given by way of non-limiting example, a down spout interface bladder is removably attachable to an end section of a down spout. A rain water holding device is hydraulically couplable to the down spout interface bladder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2009
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventor: Deano Perlatti
  • Publication number: 20100126085
    Abstract: A swimming pool brace assembly having a brace and bracket used to attach a concrete form. The bracket positions the concrete form between the concrete footing and the deck of the swimming pool. The swimming pool brace is provided with receptacles that are adapted to receive the brackets, which are used to retain the position of the concrete form. The receptacles of the brace allow the brackets to be attached to either side of the brace. The bracket includes a retention feature that is configured to retain the bracket in position once inserted into the receptacle of the brace. The bracket includes a series of radially spaced inwardly extending protrusions that engage the concrete form. The protrusions are adapted to deflect to adjust for variations in the size of the forms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Applicant: P.I. INC.
    Inventor: Laurence A. Nelson
  • Patent number: 7721491
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method, apparatus, and system to conserve resources, particularly rain water, by providing for water storage within building walls and other structural components. The building water storage allows reuse of water at that location that in the past has generally flowed to storm drains as runoff. Besides allowing reuse, another advantageous effect is that the structure may become a well insulated unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Inventor: Jennifer Appel
  • Patent number: 7716756
    Abstract: The present invention provides a site assembled swimming pool comprising a plurality of upstanding staves arranged in side by side relation and held together by upper and lower L-shaped rails, a coping extending entirely around and in releasably secured relation to the rails that fasten the upper edges of the staves together, and a flexible liner and cover releasably secured to the coping. The wooden staves include opposing vertical edges one of which includes a modified tongue and the other of which includes a groove. When assembled, the tongue of one stave engages the groove of the adjacent stave, thereby interconnecting the two staves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventor: Richard Vultaggio
  • Patent number: 7651297
    Abstract: A catch basin configured to allow selective positioning of the outlet and inlet ports on the side walls of the catch basin's receptacle body. At least one of the receptacle side walls comprise a slide opening having opposing sides. A slide member has a pair of slide edges that slidably engage the sides of the slide opening to substantially close the slide opening. The slide member has a port section and two or more positioning sections, with at least one positioning section located above the port section and one below the port section. The port section has an outlet or inlet port integral therewith or fixedly attached thereto or the port section comprises a mechanism for attaching an outlet or inlet port thereto, such as a port cutout having a removable knockout plate. The slide member has section removal indicators to identify which positioning sections should be removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: National Diversified Sales, Inc.
    Inventors: Arthur Villareal, Chris M. Moralez, Robert Sander Juskalian, Jerry Wright
  • Patent number: 7641593
    Abstract: A is provided for constructing a jump pit with a sand area. The form is constructed in sections. Each section has an inside wall and an outside wall. A support member is located between the outside wall and the inside wall. The sections are secured together onsite. Caps are mounted on the support members. The caps include an inclined surface which slops upwardly and away from the sand area forming the inclined surface. A cover over the sand area is supported by the inclined surface. Optionally, a chamber is located adjacent the outside wall. A grate covers the chamber and the grate is supported by a brace. A mat covers the grate. Openings in the grate and in the mat permit sand through them, thrown from the sand area to drop into the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Sportsfield Specialties, Inc.
    Inventor: Burt Goulet
  • Publication number: 20090308326
    Abstract: The invention relates to an aquarium with a water tank (2), filled with water (3) when in operation and containing objects for investigation (4, 19), in particularly biological organisms, said water tank (2) being at least partly located below ground in the earth (5). According to the invention, the water tank (2) runs so deep into the earth (5) that, at least the bottom of the water tank (2) is at the pressure of the deep sea. The invention further relates to a corresponding method of operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventors: Heiko Zimmermann, Gunter R. Fuhr
  • Patent number: 7574834
    Abstract: An above ground water storage device includes a plurality of modular walls coupled together in series to form a substantially continuous perimeter. Each of the plurality of modular walls includes a wall panel that is inclinable with respect to a horizontal orientation, and a support base that is coupled to a portion of the wall panel. A liner covers an internal side of the plurality of modular walls and an area encompassed by the continuous perimeter. At least one modular corner wall is positioned with the plurality of modular wall panels to form a corner in the substantially continuous perimeter. The at least one modular corner wall has an angled side with an angle corresponding to the inclined angle of an adjacent modular wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Lance Murray
  • Patent number: 7549256
    Abstract: A window well assembly includes U-shaped walls that have smooth interior and corrugated exterior surfaces, and are formed from polyvinyl material. The walls have coextensive ribs juxtaposed along an exterior surface thereof that are compressible. Each wall has an end wall with an opening formed therein, allowing the ribs to compress and expand. The openings are spaced at opposed ends of selected ribs. A mechanism is included for stacking the walls wherein a top edge of one wall receives a bottom edge of another wall. Ladders are seated against the interior surfaces of the walls. A mechanism is included for snapping the ladders onto the wall interior surface. A safety grill is mounted on top of the second wall, having an outer edge extending along a top edge of the second wall, for prohibiting the user from stepping into a cavity defined between the walls and the foundation window wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventor: Donald J. Watkins
  • Patent number: 7533499
    Abstract: A form assembly for use with a rough-in floor drain line, extending from a ground location prior to the pouring of a concrete aggregate. A body is constructed of a plasticized material and exhibits a three-dimensional outline with a height, width and depth and an open interior. The body further includes a bottom-most extending and encircling lip and an upper rim edge. The body is positioned so that the open interior surrounds the exposed floor drain line and a volume of a sand aggregate is filled into the open interior over and around the exposed drain. A lid is secured over the rim edge and a plurality of elongated and ground-securing stakes are engaged through apertures associated with the bottom extending said lip, in order to secure the body upon the ground location and to isolate the floor drain line from a volume of encircling and poured concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Inventors: Daniel J. Daigger, Rodney K. Moore, Marlow G. Clark
  • Patent number: 7530206
    Abstract: A deck is disclosed that is level with the top of a concrete/plaster pool having a decorative ribbon of tile along the top of the pool side and an apron surrounding the pool having at least a partially flat surface. The deck has a surface of deck surface members having lengths and ends, the lengths being sized to the dimensions of the pool and the surface being at the same level as the pool apron. Under the deck are supports of joists which are mostly perpendicular to the decking surface members, of underlying beams that form a sturdy base for the joists and beam hangers being secured to the sides of the pool below the decorative ribbon along the top of the pool side and being anchored into the concrete side of the pool. Also disclosed is an improved method for installing such a deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Getz
  • Publication number: 20090077905
    Abstract: A swimming pool includes a plurality of non-metal panels arranged in an end-to-end manner around a periphery of the swimming pool. Each panel includes a non-metal base material, an electrically conductive ground plane, and at least one bonding feature. The bonding features of the plurality of panels are electrically coupled together and bonded to ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventor: Tom Epple
  • Patent number: 7497945
    Abstract: A unitary or modular, pre-cast, drive-down pit system suitable for use in a heavy equipment wash installation. The completed pit collects runoff generated by the washing of heavy equipment such as construction, industrial, farming, or road-building equipment. The pre-cast concrete separation unit and separate wall sections have tongue and groove mating ends that facilitate assembling the pit and provide for sealing against leakage of water. The separation unit has up to four chambers: a primary solids collection section; a secondary solids settling chamber; a free oil separating section; and a pump water holding section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Inventors: Michael A. Solomon, Geoffrey L. Fisher
  • Patent number: 7475515
    Abstract: A flush to grade utilities vault is disclosed. The vault comprises a concrete box with a lockable, hinged fiberglass lid. The box has an appendage housing the locking mechanism external to the box. The lid is designed to achieve an ASTM A-16 load rating and has a domed skid resistant surface for use flush with a sidewalk. A floor platform lies above the bottom of the box such that utilities cables enter the box below the floor. A hinged utilities wiring frame is mounted inside opposite the lid hinge such that the frame hinges down in the box when the vault is closed and into a vertical position for making connections. A safety barrier is formed by the lid, the wiring frame, and barrier arms which hinge between them. A venting system provides egress for gasses and equalization of pressure between the interior and exterior of the vault.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Inventors: Charles G. Machledt, Fredric P. Machledt
  • Patent number: 7430834
    Abstract: The membrane cover has fold lines therein intersecting the walls of the reservoir at intersection points. A geometric chord or secant joins two intersection points, and defines, with a portion of the walls of the reservoir, a static segment in the membrane cover. The membrane cover in the static segment is tensioned along lines of force that are parallel to or that make acute angles, with the aforesaid chord or secant. The membrane cover in the static segment remains substantially planar and stationary, thus static, despite the rising and lowering of the remaining portion of the cover in response to variations in the level of the content of the reservoir. A hatchway is mounted in the static segment of the cover. In another aspect of the invention, the hatchway has an airtight compartment extending between the membrane cover and a point below the level of the material inside the reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Geomembrane Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Claude J. Degarie
  • Publication number: 20080127580
    Abstract: Flat panels formed by an assembly of wooden plates include arrangements for integrating rigidity inserts for the assembly thereof. Vertical edges of the panels receive profiles for connecting to adjacent panels in a linear and/or angular alignment manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2004
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventors: Pierre-Louis Desjoyaux, Dung Hoan Tuan, Jean-Paul Saccucci
  • Patent number: 7303357
    Abstract: A catch basin configured to allow selective positioning of the outlet and inlet ports on the side walls of the catch basin's receptacle body. At least one of the receptacle side walls comprise a slide opening having opposing sides. A slide member has a pair of slide edges that slidably engage the sides of the slide opening to substantially close the slide opening. The slide member has a port section and two or more positioning sections, with at least one positioning section located above the port section and one below the port section. The port section has an outlet or inlet port integral therewith or fixedly attached thereto or the port section comprises a mechanism for attaching an outlet or inlet port thereto, such as a port cutout having a removable knockout plate. The slide member has section removal indicators to identify which positioning sections should be removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Inventors: Arthur Villarreal, Chris M. Moralez, Robert Juskalian, Jerry Wright
  • Patent number: 7302777
    Abstract: This swimming pool consists of a first sheet or layer of concrete (1) forming the foundation, on which general “C” profile prefabricated reinforced concrete parts (2a, 2b, 2c) are laid, which have tongues or clips (25, 26) projecting from the reinforcement, holes (22) to assemble side torque means (3, 31), vertical channels (23) which define a housing containing concrete filler (4) with expansive additives, and vertical bevels (24) to place sealing filler (5) of the joints. It also consists of a bed (6), which covers the front tongues or clips (25), an upper perimeter finish (7, 8) and a lining of tiles (9) applied directly on the prefabricated parts (2a, 2b, 2c) and the bed (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Ceramica Sugranes S.A.
    Inventor: Marcelino Sugranes Arimany
  • Patent number: 7278242
    Abstract: A dock pit for a dock leveler mechanism comprises a pre-cast concrete body including integrally formed side, rear panel and front panels, all forming a continuous perimeter open therethrough to receive the load leveler mechanism. Each side panel has a top edge and the rear panel has a rear edge offset below the of the side panel top edges, whereby a concrete slab poured around the body will abut the rear panel edge with the surface of the concrete slab substantially flush with the top edge of each side panel. The side panels define a recess along their length that is situated between the top edge of the side panel and the rear edge of the rear panel, whereby the concrete slab poured around the pre-cast body will integrate within the recesses on each said side panel. The dock slab can be poured using the pre-cast pit as a form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Inventor: Mark E. Sanders
  • Patent number: 7171787
    Abstract: A rectangular tilt-up concrete tank includes a concrete slab with a metal plate anchored thereto, the metal plate defining at least one substantially linear concrete side wall location. A plurality of preformed concrete side panels each having metal plates attached along a bottom edge and opposing side edges are welded in a liquid-tight weld to the metal plate defining the concrete side wall location and a side metal plate of each side panel is welded to a metal side plate of an adjacent side panel in a liquid-tight weld to define a concrete side wall. Horizontal and vertical post-tensioning sleeves are provided in the side panels for receiving post-tensioning tendons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: CH2M Hill Inc.
    Inventors: David Thomason, Mary Williams Goodson, Christian Carl Sundberg, Michael Louis Doleac
  • Patent number: 7114297
    Abstract: A modular rounded corner piece for forming rounded corners of a pool. The modular rounded corner piece may include a plate portion and a liner receptor portion. The liner receptor portion may include a channel formed by a top wall and a bottom wall. The channel may align with a pool liner receptor slot in the coping around the perimeter of the pool. Thus, a continuous liner receptor slot may be formed around the interior circumference of the pool for receiving an edge of a pool liner thereinto. The modular rounded corner piece may be installed on the pool sidewall to provide a gapless alignment between the liner receptor on the pool sidewall and the liner receptor in the rounded side of the corner plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Pool Cover Specialists National, Inc.
    Inventors: Wesley L. Mathis, David B. Dalton
  • Patent number: 7097147
    Abstract: A non-destructive form bracket assembly and method of using the same is provided including a bracket having a vertical supporting side and horizontal supporting side for maintaining a form vertically upright; an attachment device having a first and second foundation attachment portion. The attachment device is adapted for engaging a portion of said bracket for non-destructively affixing the bracket to a foundation. Adhesive is affixed to bottom surfaces of the first and second foundation attachment portions for adhering the attachment to the foundation. Additionally, a non-destructive form assembly utilized in tilt-up construction for a double-side pour process is provided comprising a form and a plurality of U-shaped single rail brackets installed on a bottom edge of the form in spaced intervals with pre-applied adhesive on the bottom of the brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventors: Lee A. Shaw, Ronald D. Shaw
  • Patent number: 7040060
    Abstract: Improved mounting elements, mounting arrangements, and methods of mounting liners to structures, such as stair assemblies, in pools and spas are disclosed. One aspect is a mounting element for retaining at least a portion of a liner to a structure of a spa or pool, the mounting element including a face plate and a gasket mounted to the face plate. Another aspect is a mounting arrangement including a gasketed mounting element comprising a face plate and a gasket mounted to the face plate and means for mounting the gasketed mounting element to a structure wherein the liner is secured. Another aspect is a method of mounting a liner to a structure of a pool or spa. The invention facilitates the assembly of pools and spas by reducing the number of individual parts required and minimizing the potential for damaging the liner compared to prior art arrangements and methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Saratoga Spa & Bath, Inc.
    Inventor: Wesley O. Cox
  • Patent number: 6986226
    Abstract: A device prevents water from leaking into a manhole. The device includes a body having first and second portions that are integrally formed. The first portion extends along and above a periphery of the opening of the manhole and the second portion extends upwardly from the first portion and provides access to the opening of the manhole. Preferably, the first portion includes a downwardly extending lip disposed along an outer vertical surface of the manhole. In addition, a cap is positionable on the second portion to prevent water entering the manhole from the manhole's opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Strike Tool
    Inventor: Robert S. Banks
  • Patent number: 6966984
    Abstract: A unitary or modular, pre-cast, drive-down pit system suitable for use in a heavy equipment wash installation. The completed pit collects runoff generated by the washing of heavy equipment such as construction, industrial, farming, or road-building equipment. The pre-cast concrete separation unit and separate wall sections have tongue and groove mating ends that facilitate assembling the pit and provide for sealing against leakage of water. The wall sections have built-in rebar attachment and water block elements at an angle so as to provide for a strong and waterproof bond with the ramp floor. The ramp floor is concrete, poured after installation of the separation unit and the wall sections to complete the finished drive-down pit. The separation unit has up to four chambers: a primary solids collection section; a secondary solids settling chamber; a free oil separating section; and a pump water holding section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Inventor: Michael A. Solomon
  • Patent number: 6922955
    Abstract: A dock pit for a dock leveler mechanism comprises a pre-cast concrete body including integrally formed side, rear panel and front panels, all forming a continuous perimeter open therethrough to receive the load leveler mechanism. Each side panel has a top edge and the rear panel has a rear edge offset below the of the side panel top edges, whereby a concrete slab poured around the body will abut the rear panel edge with the surface of the concrete slab substantially flush with the top edge of each side panel. The side panels define a recess along their length that is situated between the top edge of the side panel and the rear edge of the rear panel, whereby the concrete slab poured around the pre-cast body will integrate within the recesses on each said side panel. The dock slab can be poured using the pre-cast pit as a form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventor: Mark Sanders
  • Patent number: 6915612
    Abstract: Window well assembly of the type adapted for below soil grade attachment to a foundational structure adjacent a basement window or the like. The assembly includes a bottom member adapted to provide a drainage site, and an upstanding generally arcuately shaped wall surrounding said bottom member and having a pair of laterally opposed upstanding edge boundaries. The upstanding wall has an interior surface facing said basement window and exterior surface facing away from the window for anchoring the assembly in said soil. The exterior surface comprises at least one arcuately shaped gripping rib. Each gripping rib comprises an inclined protruding top wall sloping upwardly proceeding radially inwardly from the exterior surface toward the interior and a generally horizontal bottom wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Inventor: Brett Oakley
  • Patent number: 6904724
    Abstract: A piling based pool system uses standard pilings, which are either pre-cast concrete, wood, or steel, etc., which pilings are drilled or driven into the ground in standard fashion with appropriate beams interconnecting the pilings. Some of the pilings are used to support a house while others of the pilings are used to hold the swimming pool shell, allowing a user to walk out of the house and use the pool without having to ascend or descend stairs. The foundation of the building as well as the swimming pool shell are each formed from a plurality of hollow core concrete panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Inventor: Mark Carrell
  • Patent number: 6880300
    Abstract: A rust-proof window well manufactured from a composite material. The window well may have integrally formed steps to assist in egress from inside the well. Walls forming the well typically are ¼ inch thick, or greater. While generally made with a spray-up process from a glass/epoxy composite, the well may be manufactured from a variety of composite materials with corresponding manufacturing techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Brett L. Hawkes
  • Patent number: 6860680
    Abstract: The invention pertains to means and methods for enabling the further use of previously negative assets, and particularly from those facilities formed from gypsum waste, such as that suitable for forming gypsum stacks. Waste containment or landfill facilities are formed from the conversion of gypsum refuse waste materials derived from gypsum mining and processing, and particularly from such facilities as they are formed in place from such gypsum-based refuse. Such facilities can be utilized, rented or leased as waste containment facilities for the short-term, long-term or permanent storage of non-gypsum waste materials such as solid waste, community refuse materials, biomass, industrial waste, phosphate waste, and for composting or otherwise processing materials such as biomass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventors: Peter J. Ianniello, Mark Topp, Tracy R. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6854223
    Abstract: Forms for building and assembling water containment holders such as but not limited to inground spas, pools, manmade ponds and fountains. The forms can have an L-shape with downwardly protruding members for allowing the forms to be placed about a base foundation having receiving openings for the protruding members. Lower walls, seats and backrests can be placed about the forms to assemble the water containment holder. All the components including the base, the forms, the seats, lower walls, and backrests can be modular components that are easily transported and assembled by an individual installer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Inventor: William F. Holland
  • Patent number: 6851230
    Abstract: A prefabricated pad for a pool and its associated method of installation under the liner of an above-ground pool. The prefabricated pad is interposed between the ground surface and the pool liner, wherein the prefabricated pad cushions the pool liner, reduces contact stresses against the pool liner and prevents the pool liner from being punctured by any object present below the pool. The prefabricated pad also supports the pool liner as the pool liner turns from the vertical walls of the pool to the flat bottom of the pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Inventors: Marianne Breslin, John J. Policastro
  • Patent number: 6846131
    Abstract: The invention pertains to business methods for enabling the creation of positive revenue streams from previously negative assets, and particularly from those facilities formed from gypsum waste, such as gypsum stacks. Waste containment or landfill facilities are formed from the conversion of gypsum refuse waste materials derived from gypsum mining and processing, such as from existing gypsum stacks, or from facilities formed in place from gypsum-based refuse. Such facilities are utilized, rented or leased as waste containment facilities for the short-term, long-term or permanent storage of non-gypsum waste materials such as solid waste, community refuse materials, biomass, industrial waste, phosphate waste, and for composting or otherwise processing materials such as biomass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Inventors: Peter J. Ianniello, Mark Topp, Tracy R. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20040134145
    Abstract: A system for making a liquid-retaining wall, such as a swimming pool wall, from prefabricated panels, the system comprising at least assembly means for assembling together two consecutive vertically-disposed panels, a low belt which supports the panels, and a high belt which is fitted to the panels, the assembly means having the function of holding together two assembled-together panels while allowing one of the panels to move angularly relative to the other about a vertical axis, and also including angle-determining means for ensuring that at least two consecutive panels are at a determined angular orientation relative to each other as a function of the outline of the wall to be made, and further including stiffening means for stiffening the panels once they have been assembled to one another, wherein the wall is made up of plane panels which are equally suitable for being included in a rectilinear or in a curved portion of the outline of the wall to be made, and wherein each angle-determining means is const
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Alain Maupas
  • Publication number: 20040098931
    Abstract: A dock pit for a dock leveler mechanism comprises a pre-cast concrete body including integrally formed side, rear panel and front panels, all forming a continuous perimeter open therethrough to receive the load leveler mechanism. Each side panel has a top edge and the rear panel has a rear edge offset below the of the side panel top edges, whereby a concrete slab poured around the body will abut the rear panel edge with the surface of the concrete slab substantially flush with the top edge of each side panel. The side panels define a recess along their length that is situated between the top edge of the side panel and the rear edge of the rear panel, whereby the concrete slab poured around the pre-cast body will integrate within the recesses on each said side panel. The dock slab can be poured using the pre-cast pit as a form.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Inventor: Mark Sanders
  • Publication number: 20040083661
    Abstract: A rust-proof window well manufactured from a composite material. The window well may have integrally formed steps to assist in egress from inside the well. Walls forming the well typically are ¼ inch thick, or greater. While generally made with a spray-up process from a glass/epoxy composite, the well may be manufactured from a variety of composite materials with corresponding manufacturing techniques.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Brett L. Hawkes
  • Patent number: 6729795
    Abstract: A modular drain for receiving drainage liquid with a polygonal upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion has a substantially lateral surface, a first vertical surface and a second vertical surface that define an upper cavity, the substantially lateral surface having a plurality of openings thereon. The lower portion is joined to the upper portion, the lower portion including a substantially semi-circular surface sized to receive a tube section of a connector therein. In one embodiment, at least one of the first vertical surface and the second vertical surface includes a retention mechanism that is sized and positioned to retain the tube section in the lower portion. In another embodiment, the vertical surfaces are provided with interlocking interfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Quaker Plastic Corporation
    Inventors: Donald E. Dahowski, James G. Wilson, Christopher B. Presler
  • Publication number: 20040074159
    Abstract: A flexible rib for use in conjunction with a vinyl liner clip track. The flexible rib has a clip extension which secures it to the clip track after a cantilever coping is installed. The flexible rib seals the gap created by the clip track and prevents injury by preventing a swimmer from inserting fingers into the gap. The flexible rib has a decorative facia that conceals the clip track. The facia can take a variety of shapes, including conventional shapes such as quarter round, cove, clam shaped, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventors: Myron Ed Irgang, Troy Lambe
  • Patent number: 6688057
    Abstract: The present invention aims to reduce the manufacturing work load of a structure of a liner of a concrete wall. A plurality of liner anchors 10 is constructed longitudinally to one surface of a liner 11, and a plurality of flat bars 14 is constructed transversely to the other surface of the liner 11. Concrete for a reinforced concrete wall is installed using the liner 11 reinforced longitudinally and transversely by the liner anchors 10 and the flat bars 14 as a formwork, and the liner is constructed to the concrete wall by burying the liner anchors 10 to the concrete wall. Thereafter, the flat bars 11 are removed from the liner 14, according to need.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Hitachi Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ayako Suzuki, Shigeru Nanba, Tsutomu Igari
  • Patent number: 6675402
    Abstract: A swimming pool coping install able around the periphery of a swimming pool. The coping is formed of a plurality of coping members each of which is a solid molded body composed of solid surfacing material having one or more additives or fillers incorporated therein to enhance properties of the body as a swimming pool coping The coping is highly durable, easy to install and maintain and provides a very attractive appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Centura Solid Surfacing, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald L. Maurer
  • Publication number: 20030228195
    Abstract: A swimming pool utilizing deep-sea water to promote hygienic swimming and overall health. The pool is equipped with a deep-sea water collecting device which supplies the deep-sea water thereto and drainage equipment for maintaining a constantly fresh supply of deep-sea water in the pool. The pool may be equipped with a propulsion device such as a propeller, a large number of extensions on the bottom surface for avoiding sharks, facilities for fishing on its side, a means for generating fine air bubbles to be mixed into the deep-sea water, a solar power generation means, a wind power generation means and a deep-sea water desalination equipment. In addition, a pool using deep-sea water, accommodation facilities, dining facilities, facilities of a beauty shop/fitness gymnasium, fish breeding facilities and hydroponic facilities, which collect and use deep-sea water, are built on the beach.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Inventor: Masaru Mizutani
  • Patent number: 6651778
    Abstract: A service center for the self-service lubrication of over-the-road vehicles, and the method of use thereof, which center has at least one service area into which the vehicle can be driven for servicing, one or more mobile lifting devices positionable by the vehicle operator to engage and lifts and to subsequently lower, a portion of the vehicle to be serviced under control of such operator, lubricant draining apparatus engageable with the vehicle by the operator and operable thereby to effect the drainage of lubricant from the vehicle, lubricant fill apparatus engageable with the vehicle and operable by the vehicle operator to feed fresh lubricant to the vehicle as required, including metering apparatus for determining the amount of lubricant fed to the vehicle, and an attendant system for controlling use of said service center and its equipment, including calculation of amounts due by the vehicle operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Arogas, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin J. Manning, Thomas P. Manning, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6647562
    Abstract: A portable water-containing structure formed from a series of interlocking panel elements that can be interlocked easily without the use of tools. These panels may be used to form such water-containing structures as wading or swimming pools and may also be used to form an ice rink, spa, fish pond, flowerbox, window box and may other elements. The structures so formed are easy to assemble and disassemble, are strong and utile and can be formed in situ at any desired location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventors: John Arout, Carmine Braccia
  • Patent number: 6643858
    Abstract: A prefabricated swimming pool including a pool frame having a plurality of vertical frames and horizontal frames connected between the vertical frames, and pool body fabricated from a synthetic resin sheet having a base unit and a circumferential side wall and supported by the pool frame. Storing and carrying of the swimming pool is simple and handy, and there is no possibility that the circumferential side wall is inclined or collapses, ensuring a safe and stable use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Portable Pools Incorporated
    Inventor: Jae Hyong Lee
  • Patent number: 6643983
    Abstract: A cladding device for the pond of a swimming pool or the like includes a slab as well as side walls made of concrete or the like. This device is characterized in that it is formed of tightly juxtaposed glass plates applied, through mounting mechanisms, against the slab and the side walls of the pond, on the inner side of the latter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Enterprise Mazure Patrick, Societe en nom personnel
    Inventor: Patrick Mazure
  • Patent number: 6640504
    Abstract: A vertically moveable swimming pool floor apparatus includes a rigid planar platform configured to fit the planform area of a swimming pool, and a plurality of hydraulically powered hoists coupled to the platform to raise and lower the platform. The hoists are controlled by a control system operated by the user. The hoists controllably actuate the platform into and out of a swimming pool cavity, such that effective depth of the swimming pool is variable in a continuous range. The platform is equipped with depth indicators to allow users to observe the effective depth of the pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: FLG Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: James Pearlson, Raymond Pearlson