POOL COVER ATTACHMENT FEATURES AND METHODS FOR FRAMELESS POOL COVERS

Abstract

A pool cover apparatus for a retractable pool cover includes a draw cord extending over a length. A webbing including an elongated sheet extending along the length encloses the draw cord and forms a first sheet flap and a second sheet flap overlapping along a connection side. The elongated sheet forms an interior side directed to the draw cord and an exterior side directed away from the draw cord. A pool cover is connected along a perimeter edge to an interior side of the first flap forming a cover interface. The first sheet flap and the second sheet flap are fused along a webbing interface extending proximate to the draw cord and the first sheet flap extends beyond the second sheet flap providing a bonding surface for connecting the pool cover.

Description

BACKGROUND

The present device generally relates to a pool cover apparatus and, more particularly, to a retractable pool cover and assembly features for a frameless pool cover, which may incorporate one or more graphics or printed designs.

SUMMARY

In various implementations, the disclosure may provide for a pool cover apparatus for a retractable pool cover. The pool cover apparatus may comprise a draw cord extending over a length and forming a cord surface. A webbing comprising an elongated sheet may extend along the length and is enclosed about the cord surface forming a first sheet flap and a second sheet flap overlapping along a connection side of the draw cord. The elongated sheet forms an interior side directed to the draw cord and an exterior side directed away from the draw cord. A pool cover is connected along a perimeter edge to an interior side of the first flap forming a cover interface. The first sheet flap and the second sheet flap are fused along a webbing interface of the first sheet flap and the second sheet flap extending proximate to the draw cord. Additionally, the first sheet flap extends beyond the second sheet flap forming a bonding surface over an exposed portion of the interior side to which the perimeter edge of the pool cover is connected.

In various implementations, the disclosure may also provide for a pool cover apparatus for a retractable pool cover including a draw cord extending over a length and forming a cord surface. A webbing may be enclosed about the draw cord and form opposing first and second sheet flaps overlapping along a connection side of the draw cord. The elongated sheet forms an interior side directed to the draw cord and an exterior side directed away from the draw cord. A pool cover may be connected along a perimeter edge of the interior side of the first flap forming a cover interface. An encapsulation structure may be configured to connect about a perimeter of a pool and define a cover perimeter. The encapsulation structure may comprise a channel formed by opposing channel walls along a depth. The webbing is disposed within the channel in an extended configuration of the pool cover and the perimeter edge of the pool cover extends into the depth of the channel.

In yet another implementation, the disclosure may provide for a method for providing a retractable pool cover assembly. The method may include providing an encapsulation webbing comprising encapsulation material wrapped over a draw cord. The encapsulation webbing may be formed by connecting a first webbing flap to a second webbing flap on a connection side of the draw cord by affixing an end portion of the first webbing flap to the second webbing flap. In this way, the encapsulation webbing may provide for an exposed bonding surface of the second webbing flap extending beyond the end portion of the first webbing flap. The method may further include preparing a decorated pool cover comprising a design disposed on an outward facing surface opposite an inward facing surface. A perimeter edge of the inward facing surface of the decorated pool cover may be welded to the bond surface of the second webbing flap. The encapsulation webbing may be enclosed within a channel formed by the encapsulation structure. The enclosing of the encapsulation webbing may include inserting at least a portion of the perimeter edge of the decorated pool cover into the channel. In this way, the design of the pool cover may extend into the channel and provide for a frameless pool cover design presented with the decorated pool cover in an extended position.

These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present device will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art upon studying the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 demonstrates an elevational view of an exemplary retractable pool cover system demonstrating an encapsulation structure;

FIG. 2 is a projected view demonstrating a drive assembly including a motor in connection with a rope wheel and a roll tube of a pool cover;

FIG. 3 is a detailed projected view of an encapsulation structure demonstrating a webbing interface of a retractable pool cover;

FIG. 4 is a side view of a segment of encapsulation structure demonstrating a webbing interface of a retractable pool cover;

FIG. 5A is a projected view of a pool cover demonstrating a webbing interface;

FIG. 5B is a side view of the pool cover demonstrating the webbing interface;

FIG. 6A is a projected view of an encapsulation structure demonstrating a splice member aligning adjacent segments;

FIG. 6B is a side view of the encapsulation structure demonstrated in FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6C is a side view of a splice member configured to align the adjacent segments of the encapsulation structure demonstrating tapered sidewalls configured to align with the wall angle of the angled trough of the encapsulation structure;

FIG. 7A is a side view demonstrating an encapsulation structure comprising a coping portion configured to form a perimeter edge of a pool;

FIG. 7B is a projected view of the encapsulation structure demonstrated in FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8A is a front projected view demonstrating a lid assembly for a retractable pool cover system including a splice member;

FIG. 8B is a side front projected view demonstrating a lid assembly for a retractable pool cover system including a splice member;

FIG. 8C is a projected view of a splice member of a lid assembly; and

FIG. 8D is a detailed sectional view of the splice member located in a pocket formed by stiffening ribs of a lid assembly for a retractable pool cover.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

For purposes of description herein the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the device as oriented in FIG. 1. However, it is to be understood that the device may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

Additionally, unless otherwise specified, it is to be understood that discussion of a particular feature or component extending in or along a given direction or the like does not mean that the feature or component follows a straight line or axis in such a direction or that it only extends in such direction or on such a plane without other directional components or deviations, unless otherwise specified.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1 and 2, the disclosure may provide for assemblies related to a retractable pool cover system 10. In general, the system 10 may comprise a drive motor 12 configured to selectively engage a drive assembly 14 to extend and retract a pool cover 16. In operation, the motor 12 may engage the drive assembly 14 to extend the pool cover 16 by retrieving a plurality of draw lines 18 around a spool of a rope wheel 20. The draw lines 18 may extend along opposing sides 22a, 22b of a pool 22 within an encapsulation structure 24. As demonstrated in Detail A, the encapsulation structure 24 may be implemented as longitudinally aligned, adjacent segments connected via an encapsulation coupling 26. The encapsulation structure 24 may provide an enclosed or partially enclosed passage through which the draw lines 18 are guided by pulleys 28 aligned with the rope wheel 20 as shown in FIG. 2. In response to the retraction of the draw line 18 on the rope wheel 20, a webbing 30 extending along perimeter edges 32 of the pool cover 16 may be drawn through a channel 34 formed by opposing channel walls 62 of the encapsulation structure 24 to guide the pool cover 16 along the sides 22a, 22b. In response to the retraction or spooling of the draw lines 18, the pool cover 16 may be extended to enclose the pool 22. To retract the pool cover 16, the drive assembly 14 may be engaged in an opposite direction to rotate an axle 36 and roll-up the pool cover 16 on a roll tube 38 extending from the first side 22a to the second side 22b of the pool 22.

As demonstrated in FIG. 1, the encapsulation structure 24 may form a finished, enclosed perimeter wall 40 of the pool 22 enclosing or encapsulating the draw lines 18 and the webbing 30 along the perimeter edges 32 of the pool cover 16. As further shown in FIG. 1, the motor 12, the drive assembly 14, and the pool cover 16 may be housed and enclosed within a storage cavity 42 which may be formed as a pit or cavity beneath a level of a deck 44 adjacent to the pool 22. In such configurations, the cover system 10 may further comprise a deck lid 50. The deck lid 50 may include one or more segments of support decking configured to enclose the storage cavity 42 and provide a structural support allowing users to walk or step on the support decking 52. As discussed further in the following detailed disclosure, the cover system 10 may comprise a variety of features to improve the ease of assembly, build quality, and longevity of the retractable pool cover 16.

Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 4, the encapsulation structure 24 is demonstrated in both a projected view and a side profile view demonstrating a relationship between the encapsulation structure 24 and the webbing 30 of the pool cover 16. As shown, the encapsulation structure 24 may comprise an encapsulation insert 60 that may be installed within the channel 34 formed by opposing channel walls 62 of the encapsulation structure 24. The encapsulation insert 60 may separate the channel 34 into a first partitioned region 64a and a second partitioned region 64b. The first partitioned region 64a may comprise a draw line opening 66 extending into a draw line pocket 68. In this configuration, the draw lines 18 extending along the opposing sides 22a, 22b of the pool 22 may be installed into the draw line pocket 68 via the draw line opening 66. Within the draw line pocket 68, the draw lines 18 may be captured and retained within the channel 34 formed by the encapsulation structure 24. In this way, the encapsulation structure 24 and the encapsulation insert 60 may combine to house and protect the draw lines 18 extending along a length of the pool 22 throughout operation.

The second partitioned region 64b formed by the encapsulation insert 60 may comprise a webbing interface opening 70 that partially encloses a webbing pocket 72 formed on a second side 60b of the encapsulation insert 60 opposite a first side 60a comprising the draw line opening 66. The webbing interface opening 70 may be open at opposing ends of each of the plurality of segments of the encapsulation structure 24 extending along the sides 22a, 22b of the pool 22. Accordingly, the webbing 30, including a draw cord 80, may be guided through the webbing pocket 72. In this configuration, the pool cover 16 may extend between the perimeter edges 32 of the webbing 30 and slidably engage one or more encapsulation protrusions 82 to retain and capture the draw cord 80 and the webbing 30 within the webbing pocket 72. As shown, the encapsulation protrusions 82 may extend into and partially enclose the webbing interface opening 70 to securely capture the draw cord 80 and the webbing 30 within the webbing pocket 72. In some implementations, the encapsulation protrusion 82 formed by the encapsulation insert 60 may include a plurality of encapsulation protrusions 82 that extend into the webbing interface opening 70 from opposing sides of the channel 34 to form a smooth, curved barrier wall on which the webbing 30 may rest to draw and support the pool cover 16 across the opposing sides 22a, 22b of the pool 22.

The encapsulation insert 60 may be removable and selectively locked into engagement with the channel 34 to assist in an assembly procedure for the cover system 10. During the assembly, a plurality of segments of the encapsulation structure 24 may be aligned and secured to the opposing sides 22a, 22b of the pool 22. With the encapsulation structure installed, the cover 16 and draw lines 18 may be installed in sequence with the encapsulation insert 60 to facilitate the installation of the retractable cover 16 and later maintenance of the system 10. As shown, the encapsulation insert 60 may be retained within the channel 34 formed by the channel walls 62 by a locking shim or locking insert 84. The locking insert 84 may be installed along the adjacent segments or lengths of the encapsulation structure 24 between one of the channel walls 62 and the encapsulation insert 60. In this way, the encapsulation insert 60 and the encapsulation structure 24 may provide for an enclosed guide for the draw line 18 within the draw line pocket 68 and the webbing 30 within the webbing pocket 72 to retain the webbing 30 along the opposing sides 22a, 22b of the pool 22.

Referring now to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the encapsulation structure 24 of the pool cover 16 is demonstrated in further detail. As previously discussed, the draw cord 80 of the webbing 30 may extend over a length of the pool cover 16 in connection with the opposing sides 22a, 22b of the pool 22. Though discussed generally as the pool cover 16, the construction of the pool cover 16 may comprise a central cover portion 90 configured to cover the body of the pool 22. The central cover portion 90 may correspond to a flexible material or fabric panel extending over the surface of the pool 22 and connect about a perimeter to a bonding surface 92 formed by the webbing interface in connection with the webbing 30 along the opposing sides 22a, 22b. The bonding surface 92 may be formed by one of a plurality of flaps 94 of a webbing sheet 96 wrapped around the draw cord 80. The flaps 94 of the webbing 30 may correspond to opposing sides of the webbing sheet 96 wrapped around and extending from the draw cord 80 along a connection side 98. The flaps or sheet flaps may include a first flap 94a and a second flap 94b, which may be welded or fused along the connection side 98 forming a first weld 100a and defining the webbing interface. For clarity, the combination of the draw cord 80 in connection with webbing sheet 96 may be referred to as the webbing 30.

As best demonstrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the first flap 94a may extend beyond the second flap 94b on the connection side 98. The extent of the first flap 94a beyond the second flap 94b may form the bonding surface 92 over an exposed portion of an interior side 102a of the webbing sheet 96 opposite an exterior side 102b. As previously discussed, the perimeter edges 32 of the cover portion 90 may be affixed to the interior side 102a of the first flap 94a along the bonding surface 92 via a second weld 100b. In this configuration, the webbing 30, including the draw cord 80, webbing sheet 96, and cover portion 90, may be configured to engage the webbing pocket 72 and pass through the webbing interface opening 70 to support the pool cover 16 drawn across the pool 22 from the first side 22a to the second side 22b. Though described specifically as first and second welds 100a, 100b, the connections among the various portions of the pool cover 16 may be provided by additional or alternative connection methods including, but not limited to, stitching, adhesives, combined welding or material fusion, individual welds, etc. unless otherwise specified.

In some implementations, the central cover portion 90 may correspond to a large rectangular sheet of material comprising a pool side 90a and an environment side 90b. In some cases, the pool side 90a of the central cover portion 90 may include one or more decorative features and/or printed graphics, referred to herein as surface designs 104, that may be applied to or formed on the outward facing material of the pool cover 16. In such applications, the surface designs 104 may extend over the entire surface formed by the cover side 90b of the central cover portion 90. For example, the surface designs 104 may extend to a boundary 106 of the central cover portion 90 and may abut or extend proximal to the second flap 94b along the bonding surface 92 of the webbing 30. The surface designs 104 may correspond to graphics that may be formed on, printed, or otherwise applied to the cover side 90b of the central cover portion 90 in the form of various decorative colors, graphics, photographic likenesses, artistic works, etc.

Referring now to FIGS. 3, 4, and 5, the engagement of the webbing 30 with the encapsulation structure 24 may provide for an overlapping region O_R that may be defined by an extent of the central portion or central cover portion 90 of the visually-exposed cover side 90b that extends into an opening plane 110 formed by the channel 34 of the encapsulation structure 24. As best illustrated in detail of FIG. 4, the overlapping region O_R may correspond to an extent of the central cover portion 90 in connection with the bonding surface 92 that engages the first flap 94a of the webbing 30 and extends into and beyond the opening plane 110. In some cases, the overlapping region O_R may extend from approximately 1 millimeter to 50 millimeters into the channel 34 formed by either of the channel walls 62 and extending beyond the opening plane 110. In this configuration, the surface designs 104 of the central cover portion 90 of the pool cover 16 may extend across the pool 22 from the first side 22a to the second side 22b while eliminating a visibility of the webbing sheet 96 of the webbing 30 from visibility over the surface of the pool 22. Though discussed in reference to specific dimensions and ranged in reference to the overlapping region O_R of the central cover portion 90 and the corresponding surface designs 104, the dimensions of the overlapping region O_R may vary to effectively mask and hide the webbing sheet 96 within the encapsulation structure 24 and beneath (e.g., opposite the cover side 90b of the central cover portion 90). In this way, the surface designs 104 may extend over the entirety of the pool surface and into the encapsulation structure 24 to mask the appearance of the webbing sheet 96 along the perimeter edges 32.

In various implementations, the construction of the webbing 30 in connection with the central cover portion 90 may support the operability of the pool cover 16 to include the overlapping region O_R. For example, the construction of the webbing 30 may provide for excellent tensile strength and resiliency to wear in connection with forces applied to the central cover portion 90 throughout operation of the retractable cover system 10. As discussed herein, the central cover portion 90 may extend into the channel 34 of the encapsulation structure 24. This configuration allows the surface designs 104 to extend to the perimeter pool edges 22a, 22b providing a frameless view of the surface designs 104. In order to ensure that the pool cover 16 maintains resiliency to wear while providing the surface designs, the webbing 30 may provide for the first flap 94a to extend from the webbing pocket 72 and beyond the opening plane 110. In this configuration, the first flap 94a may provide for the bonding surface 92 with the central cover portion 90 while also having the exterior side 102b of the webbing sheet 96 extend through the webbing interface opening 70, through the encapsulation insert 60 and beyond a boundary of the channel 34 defined by the opening plane 110. As shown in FIG. 4, this configuration allows the first flap 94a of the webbing 30 to extend out through the channel 34 beyond the opening plane 110 over the pool side 90a of the central cover portion 90 to provide resistance to abrasion and wear associated with the pool cover 16 being repeatedly retracted and extended through the encapsulation structure 24. Opposite the pool side 90a, the central cover portion 90 may extend into the channel 34 across the opening plane 110 or proximate thereto allowing the surface designs 104 to extend to the perimeter edge of the pool 22.

In some implementations, the thickness of the webbing interface formed by the flaps 94a, 94b and a cover interface between the first flap 94a and the central cover portion 90 may be limited to a thickness of two layers formed by the webbing sheet 96 and/or the central cover portion 90. In this configuration, the pool cover 16 may be designed to ensure that the retention of the draw cord 80 within the webbing pocket 72 is maintained while limiting a material thickness extending out through the opening formed by the encapsulation protrusions 82 of the encapsulation insert 60. For example, the webbing interface including the first weld 100a of the first flap 94a and the second flap 94b may be limited in thickness to the combination of two layers of the webbing sheet 96. Similarly, the cover interface, formed by engagement of the first flap 94a to the central cover portion 90 over the bonding surface 92, may be limited in thickness to the combination of a single layer of the webbing sheet 96 with a layer of the material forming the central cover portion 90. In this configuration, the webbing interface and the cover interface forming the first weld 100a and the second weld 100b may be limited to a clearance thickness that readily passes outward from the encapsulation insert 60 in connection with the central cover portion 90. Additionally, the design of the first flap 94a extending from the encapsulation structure 24 opposite the central cover portion 90 may ensure that the limited thickness retains resiliency to wear.

As discussed herein, the materials associated with the draw cord 80, the central cover portion 90, and the webbing sheet 96 may vary among a diverse range of applications for retractable pool cover systems. In an exemplary embodiment, the draw cord 80 may correspond to a nylon rope or similar material that may be resistant to tensile stretching and also resilient to environmental deterioration over time. The webbing sheet 96 may similarly correspond to a woven or reinforced fabric or nylon sheet extending about the draw cord 80 and forming the flaps 94 on the connection side 98. The central cover portion 90 may correspond to a canvas, vinyl, or various other forms of materials on which the surface designs 104 may be applied or printed to provide a decorative pool cover as provided by the disclosure. Though the features described herein are discussed in reference to specific combinations of elements, the related invention and corresponding disclosure may not be so limited.

Referring now to FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, the encapsulation structure 24 may comprise an elongated body 120, which may be extruded or formed from a corrosion resistant material, for example aluminum, ceramic, polymeric materials, etc. The elongated body 120 may extend along a longitudinal axis A_L configured to be aligned with the opposing sides 22a, 22b of the pool 22. In some implementations, the encapsulation structure 24 may further comprise a coping structure 122 as later discussed and demonstrated in the example shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B. In various implementations, adjacent segments 124a, 124b of the encapsulation structure 24 may be aligned along the longitudinal axis A_L to accommodate proportions of the pool 22 that may exceed a length of each of the segments 124. For example, the segments 124 of the encapsulation structure 24 may commonly be provided in 2-3-meter lengths that may need to be aligned along the longitudinal axis A_L. The alignment of the segments 124 of the encapsulation structure 24 may be imperative to maintain alignment with the encapsulation inserts 60 to provide the passage for the draw lines 18 and the webbing 30.

As previously discussed, the channel walls 62 may extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A_L forming the channel 34 along a first side of the encapsulation structure 24. In order to provide for accurate alignment of the segments 124, opposite the channel 34 along a second side of the encapsulation structure 24, a support structure 126 may be formed in connection with the elongated body 120. The support structure 126 may correspond to a plurality of support walls forming an exterior rectangular perimeter wall 128. An angled trough 130 may be formed extending along a union of a base of the channel 34 and the support structure 126 forming a first interior wall 132a. Opposite the first interior wall 132a, a second interior wall 132b may be formed by the support structure 126 extending from the exterior perimeter wall 128. As demonstrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the interior walls 132 may comprise a parallel section 134 forming an opening of the angled trough 130 and a tapered section 136 tapering centrally within the support structure 126 along a wall angle θ_W. In an assembly operation, the angled troughs 130 of the adjacent segments 124 may be aligned and configured to receive a splice member 140, which may align the adjacent segments 124 along the longitudinal axis A_L.

Still referring to FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, the splice member 140 is demonstrated as being formed from an elongated bar 142 having tapered sidewalls 144 converging at a taper angle θ_T, which may be complimentary to the wall angle θ_W. In this configuration, the splice member 140 may be inserted between the adjacent segments 124 of the encapsulation structure 24, thereby aligning the angled troughs 130 by adjusting the alignment of the adjacent segments 124 such that the tapered angle θ_T of the splice member 140 is aligned with the wall angle θ_W and settles within the angled trough 130. Once the splice member 140 is positioned within the angled trough 130 and the adjacent segments 124 are aligned along the longitudinal axis A_L, the splice member 140 may be affixed to the support structure 126 by a plurality of fasteners 146 in connection with each of the adjacent segments 124.

As previously discussed, the encapsulation structure 24 may incorporate a coping structure 122 in some implementations. As demonstrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the implementations of the encapsulation structure 24 comprising the coping structure 122 may similarly comprise the channel 34 formed by the channel walls 62 extending along the first side of the encapsulation structure 24. The support structure 126 may extend along the second side 22b and be positioned away from the pool 22. In general, the coping structure 122 may provide for the perimeter wall 40 in cases where it is desired to pour concrete to the perimeter of the pool 22. In implementations where the encapsulation structure 24 does not include the coping structure 122, the perimeter wall 40 of the pool 22 may be formed by pavers, curbing, or various forms of specialty stone or tile that may provide a structure for the perimeter wall 40 of the pool 22.

Referring now to FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C and 8D, adjacent segments 150 of the deck lid 50 are shown demonstrating a spliced region of the support decking 52. As shown, each of the adjacent segments 150 of the deck lid 50 may be interconnected or spliced together by one or more splice members 152. In operation, the splice members 152 may bind the adjacent segments 150 of the deck lid 50 together such that forces (e.g., weight applied by walking on the support decking 52) may be supported without allowing relative displacement between the adjacent segments 150. As shown, the splice members 152 may be disposed between a plurality of stiffening ribs 154 extending from an interior side 156 of the deck lid 50 opposite the support decking 52. The splice member 152 may be positioned within a slot or channel 158 formed by a neighboring pair of the stiffening ribs 154.

As best demonstrated in the side profile view shown in FIG. 8D, the slot or channel 158 may extend from a proximal end portion 154a in connection with the interior side 156 to a distal end portion 154b. On the distal end portion 154b of one or more of the stiffening ribs 154, an encapsulation tab 160 may partially enclose an elongated opening 162 formed between the neighboring stiffening ribs 154. As demonstrated in FIG. 8D, the encapsulation tab 160 extends laterally from each of the neighboring stiffening ribs 154 and into the elongated opening 162. As shown, the splice member 152 may be retained between the stiffening ribs 154 as well as the at least one encapsulation tab 160. In this configuration, movement of the splice member 152 may be limited to translation within the slot or channel 158 along a longitudinal axis A_L. Once installed between the adjacent segments 150 of the deck lid 50, the splice member 152 may effectively bind the adjacent segments 150 together along the longitudinal axis and ensure that the adjacent segments 150 of the support decking 52 deflect uniformly in response to an applied force.

Referring still to FIGS. 8C and 8D, the splice member 152 may extend along the longitudinal axis A_L from a first end portion 152a to a second end portion 152b. The first end portion 152a may be secured within the channel 158 formed between the neighboring stiffening ribs 154 by an interference fit. The interference fit may be provided by an engagement of a top wall 164a and a bottom wall 164b of the splice member 152 within the channel 158 partially enclosed by the encapsulation tab 160 and/or an engagement between the lateral sides 166 of the splice member 152 with the sides of the channel 158 formed by the neighboring stiffening ribs 154. In some implementations, the encapsulation tabs 160 may comprise bent or biased end portions 168 that may angle inward into the channel 158 and partially enclose the elongated opening 162. In such cases, the splice member 152 may comprise engaging protrusions 180 extending from the bottom side 164b opposite the surface of the support decking 52. The engaging protrusions 170 may create a controlled interference fit with the biased end portions 168 of the encapsulation tabs 160 to securely bind the splice member 152 within the adjacent segments 150 of the channel 158 formed by the neighboring stiffening ribs 154.

On the second end portion 152b, the splice member 152 may form a recessed pocket 172 extending approximately parallel to the lateral direction of the stiffening ribs 154 relative to the interior side 156 of the deck lid 50. The recessed pocket 172 may correspond to a rectangular cutout that may form an opening between a base portion 174 formed by the recessed pocket 172 of the splice member 152 and the adjacent stiffening rib 154 forming the channel 158 as shown in FIG. 8D. In such configurations, a locking fastener 176 or bolt may be fitted within a threaded aperture 178 extending through the base 174 and into the second end portion 152b of the splice member 152. In an installed configuration, as best demonstrated in FIG. 8A, the locking fastener 176 may be extended outward from the base 174 by turning the fastener 176 (e.g., in a loosening or counterclockwise direction). The withdrawal of the locking fastener 176 from the threaded aperture 178 may cause a head of the fastener 176 to engage the adjacent stiffening ribs 154 of the channel 158. In this way, the locking fastener 176 may be withdrawn from the threaded aperture 178 to bind the second end portion 152b of the splice member 152 within the channel 158.

When applied in combination with the interference fit of the first end portion 152a, the splice member 152 may effectively align and bind the adjacent segments 150 of the deck lid 50 to prevent deflection between the adjacent segments 150, particularly from pressure applied to the surface of support decking 52. As further demonstrated in the examples shown, multiple splice members 152 may be fitted within a plurality of channels 158 formed by the neighboring stiffening ribs 154 to further align and secure the adjacent segments 150 to each other. Notably, the combined implementation of the splice members 152 applied in alternating directions relative to the longitudinal axis A_L of the deck lid 50 may ensure that the interference fit associated with the first end portion 152a and the locking engagement via the locking fastener 176 associated with the second end portion 152b may be alternated along the coupling between the adjacent segments 150. Such an application of the splice member 152 may further ensure that the adjacent segments 150 are securely engaged and deflect uniformly in response to forces applied to the surface of support decking 52.

According to some aspects of the disclosure, a pool cover apparatus for a retractable pool cover comprises a draw cord extending over a length and forming a cord surface; a webbing comprising an elongated sheet extending along the length, enclosing the cord surface, and forming a first sheet flap and a second sheet flap overlapping along a connection side of the draw cord, wherein the elongated sheet forms an interior side directed to the draw cord and an exterior side directed away from the draw cord; and a pool cover connected along a perimeter edge to an interior side of the first flap forming a cover interface, wherein the first sheet flap and the second sheet flap are fused along a webbing interface of the first sheet flap and the second sheet flap extending proximate to the draw cord and the first sheet flap extends beyond the second sheet flap forming a bonding surface over an exposed portion of the interior side to which the perimeter edge of the pool cover is connected.

According to various aspects, the disclosure may implement one or more of the following features or configurations in various combinations:

• • the perimeter edge overlaps the first sheet flap and does not overlap the second sheet flap;
  • the second sheet flap terminates at the webbing interface forming the exposed portion of the interior side of the first sheet flap;
  • the webbing and the pool cover form a bonding interface having a clearance thickness extending over the webbing interface and the cover interface;
  • the clearance thickness is limited to a combination of two layers of the webbing, or a layer of the webbing in combination with the pool cover;
  • the clearance thickness is limited to a first thickness attributed to two times a webbing thickness along the webbing interface;
  • the clearance thickness of the bonding interface is further limited to a second thickness attributed to the webbing thickness in combination with a pool cover thickness along the cover interface;
  • the perimeter edge of the pool cover extends into a channel formed by an encapsulation structure defining a visible perimeter of the pool cover;
  • the pool cover comprises an interior surface and an exterior surface, wherein the exterior surface comprises a printed graphic or decorative design extending to the perimeter edge and into the channel; and/or
  • the printed graphic or decorative design extends over the cover interface in connection with the first sheet flap of the webbing.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a pool cover apparatus for a retractable pool cover comprises a draw cord extending over a length and forming a cord surface; a webbing comprising an elongated sheet enclosed about the draw cord forming a first sheet flap and a second sheet flap overlapping along a connection side of the draw cord, wherein the elongated sheet forms an interior side directed to the draw cord and an exterior side directed away from the draw cord; a pool cover connected along a perimeter edge to the interior side of the first sheet flap forming a cover interface; and an encapsulation structure configured to connect about a perimeter of a pool and define a cover perimeter, the encapsulation structure comprising a channel formed by opposing channel walls along a depth, wherein the webbing is disposed within the channel in an extended configuration of the pool cover, and the perimeter edge of the pool cover extends into the depth of the channel.

According to various aspects, the disclosure may implement one or more of the following features or configurations in various combinations:

• • the first sheet flap and the second sheet flap are fused along a webbing interface of the first sheet flap and the second sheet flap extending proximate to the draw cord on the interior side, and the first sheet flap extends beyond the second sheet flap forming a bonding surface over an exposed portion of the interior side;
  • the encapsulation structure forms a webbing pocket formed by at least one encapsulation protrusion extending into the channel from at least one of the opposing walls;
  • the draw cord and a corresponding encapsulated portion of the webbing are disposed within a webbing pocket, wherein the webbing interface extends from the webbing pocket;
  • the cover interface is at least partially enveloped within the depth of the channel;
  • the webbing interface and a portion of a bonding interface are disposed within the depth of the channel;
  • the pool cover comprises an interior surface and an exterior surface, wherein the exterior surface comprises a printed graphic extending to the perimeter edge; and/or
  • the perimeter edge including the printed graphic extends to the channel formed by the encapsulation structure.

According to yet another aspect of the disclosure, a method for providing a retractable cover assembly for a pool comprises providing an encapsulation webbing comprising an encapsulation material wrapped over a draw cord, wherein the encapsulation webbing is formed by connecting a first webbing flap to a second webbing flap on a connection side of the draw cord by affixing an end portion of the first webbing flap to the second webbing flap, thereby exposing a bonding surface of the second webbing flap beyond the end portion of the first webbing flap; preparing a decorated pool cover comprising a design disposed on an outward facing surface opposite an inward facing surface; welding a perimeter edge of the inward facing surface of the decorated pool cover to the bonding surface of the second webbing flap; and enclosing the encapsulation webbing within a channel formed by an encapsulation structure, wherein enclosing the encapsulation webbing comprises inserting at least a portion of the perimeter edge into the channel.

According to various aspects, the disclosure may implement one or more of the following features or configurations in various combinations:

• • extending the encapsulation webbing along a side of a pool within the encapsulation structure;
  • masking the encapsulation webbing of the pool cover within the encapsulation structure, thereby occluding the encapsulation webbing from an exterior view by an extent of the encapsulation structure; and/or
  • extending the design of the decorated pool cover to the encapsulation structure.

It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described device and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the device disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” (in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated.

It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the device as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connectors or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present device. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.

It is also to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structures and methods without departing from the concepts of the present device, and further it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.

The above description is considered that of the illustrated embodiments only. Modifications of the device will occur to those skilled in the art and to those who make or use the device. Therefore, it is understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings and described above are merely for illustrative purposes and not intended to limit the scope of the device, which is defined by the following claims as interpreted according to the principles of patent law, including the Doctrine of Equivalents.

Claims

1. A pool cover apparatus for a retractable pool cover comprising: a draw cord extending over a length and forming a cord surface;a webbing comprising an elongated sheet extending along the length, enclosing the cord surface, and forming a first sheet flap and a second sheet flap overlapping along a connection side of the draw cord, wherein the elongated sheet forms an interior side directed to the draw cord and an exterior side directed away from the draw cord; anda pool cover connected along a perimeter edge to an interior side of the first flap forming a cover interface, wherein the first sheet flap and the second sheet flap are fused along a webbing interface of the first sheet flap and the second sheet flap extending proximate to the draw cord and the first sheet flap extends beyond the second sheet flap forming a bonding surface over an exposed portion of the interior side to which the perimeter edge of the pool cover is connected.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the perimeter edge overlaps the first sheet flap and does not overlap the second sheet flap.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second sheet flap terminates at the webbing interface forming the exposed portion of the interior side of the first sheet flap.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the webbing and the pool cover form a bonding interface having a clearance thickness extending over the webbing interface and the cover interface.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the clearance thickness is limited to a combination of two layers of the webbing, or a layer of the webbing in combination with the pool cover.

6. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the clearance thickness is limited to a first thickness attributed to two times a webbing thickness along the webbing interface.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the clearance thickness of the bonding interface is further limited to a second thickness attributed to the webbing thickness in combination with a pool cover thickness along the cover interface.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the perimeter edge of the pool cover extends into a channel formed by an encapsulation structure defining a visible perimeter of the pool cover.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the pool cover comprises an interior surface and an exterior surface, wherein the exterior surface comprises a printed graphic or decorative design extending to the perimeter edge and into the channel.

10. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the printed graphic or decorative design extends over the cover interface in connection with the first sheet flap of the webbing.

11. A pool cover apparatus for a retractable pool cover comprising: a draw cord extending over a length and forming a cord surface;a webbing comprising an elongated sheet enclosed about the draw cord forming a first sheet flap and a second sheet flap overlapping along a connection side of the draw cord, wherein the elongated sheet forms an interior side directed to the draw cord and an exterior side directed away from the draw cord;a pool cover connected along a perimeter edge to the interior side of the first sheet flap forming a cover interface; andan encapsulation structure configured to connect about a perimeter of a pool and define a cover perimeter, the encapsulation structure comprising a channel formed by opposing channel walls along a depth, wherein the webbing is disposed within the channel in an extended configuration of the pool cover, and the perimeter edge of the pool cover extends into the depth of the channel.

12. The pool cover apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the first sheet flap and the second sheet flap are fused along a webbing interface of the first sheet flap and the second sheet flap extending proximate to the draw cord on the interior side, and the first sheet flap extends beyond the second sheet flap forming a bonding surface over an exposed portion of the interior side.

13. The pool cover apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the encapsulation structure forms a webbing pocket formed by at least one encapsulation protrusion extending into the channel from at least one of the opposing walls.

14. The pool cover apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the draw cord and a corresponding encapsulated portion of the webbing are disposed within a webbing pocket, wherein the webbing interface extends from the webbing pocket.

15. The pool cover apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the cover interface is at least partially enveloped within the depth of the channel.

16. The pool cover apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the webbing interface and a portion of a bonding interface are disposed within the depth of the channel.

17. The pool cover apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the pool cover comprises an interior surface and an exterior surface, wherein the exterior surface comprises a printed graphic extending to the perimeter edge.

18. The pool cover apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the perimeter edge including the printed graphic extends to the channel formed by the encapsulation structure.

19. A method for providing a retractable cover assembly for a pool comprising: providing an encapsulation webbing comprising an encapsulation material wrapped over a draw cord, wherein the encapsulation webbing is formed by connecting a first webbing flap to a second webbing flap on a connection side of the draw cord by affixing an end portion of the first webbing flap to the second webbing flap, thereby exposing a bonding surface of the second webbing flap beyond the end portion of the first webbing flap;preparing a decorated pool cover comprising a design disposed on an outward facing surface opposite an inward facing surface;welding a perimeter edge of the inward facing surface of the decorated pool cover to the bonding surface of the second webbing flap; andenclosing the encapsulation webbing within a channel formed by an encapsulation structure, wherein enclosing the encapsulation webbing comprises inserting at least a portion of the perimeter edge into the channel.

20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising: extending the encapsulation webbing along a side of a pool within the encapsulation structure;masking the encapsulation webbing of the pool cover within the encapsulation structure, thereby occluding the encapsulation webbing from an exterior view by an extent of the encapsulation structure; andextending the design of the decorated pool cover to the encapsulation structure.