Patent Application
20180328058
The present invention relates to systems for improving the operation of pool skimmers, particularly those used in outdoor swimming pools, and methods of using the same.
With reference to
Skimmers 100 generally include a rectangular skimmer opening 135 located in a sidewall 120 of the swimming pool 110, a moveable skimmer weir 170 located inside the skimmer 100 that pivots on a hinge 155 within the skimmer 100 and moves in response to changes in the water levels of the swimming pool 110 and a rectangular skimmer faceplate 145. The faceplate 145 surrounds the skimmer opening 135, has a thickness 148 of about 1-3 inches and is secured to the pool sidewall 120 via one or more fasteners (e.g., screws) 146 inserted through fastener apertures 147. Some pools, particularly many concrete and gunite pools, lack a faceplate 145 surrounding the skimmer opening 135. The skimmer weir 170 pivots between a vertical position (shown in phantom line 170A in
Usually, the skimmer opening 135 and skimmer weir 170 are located several inches below the top overhang 130 of the pool. (The distance from the pool top overhang 130 to the top of the skimmer opening 135 is labeled as 140. The distance from the pool top overhang 130 to the top edge 171 of the skimmer weir 170 is labeled as 150). Most, if not all, of the debris typically found in the basins 121 of swimming pool 110 is less dense than water and hence is located in the top layer of the water located in the basin 121 of the swimming pool 110. Thus, for this reason, skimmer manufacturers instruct swimming pool owners to keep the water level in the basin 121 of the pool 110 approximately two-thirds (⅔) of the way up the faceplate 145 (i.e., below the top edge 171 of the skimmer weir 170) so that the skimmer 100 filters the top, debris-containing layer of the pool water. Unfortunately, keeping the water at the manufacturer's recommended level is problematic for several reasons. First, the owner may want to keep the water level in the basin 121 of the pool 110 near the top overhang 130 of the pool 110 for aesthetic effect (i.e., a full pool). Second, if a rainstorm increases the water above the manufacturer's recommended level, the owner must remove some of the water from the pool 110 via a drain so that the water returns to the recommended level. This creates a time burden on the pool owner unless the drainage is automatic and, in any case, is environmentally unfriendly and costly, as pool water and chemicals in the pool water are wasted when the pool is drained.
Some devices in the prior art seek to address some of these water loss issues; however these prior art devices are costly and create hazards in the pool. For example, the Ecoskim™ device (Ecoskim Pty Ltd., Australia), which is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,993,515 to Davies, is a swimming pool cleaning device that includes an outer body with an outlet to the pool pump line, a hollow mating member, which floats within the outer body so that its top rim is at the surface of the pool and a litter basket which fits within the floating member. The device further includes an inlet that attaches to a hose, which moves about the swimming pool, and a backing plate that fits over the opening of a swimming pool skimmer and prevents water from entering the skimmer opening. The Ecoskim™ device costs approximately $700 U.S. Dollars and relies on the use of a mobile hose, which poses a hazard to children swimming in the swimming pool.
Thus, there is a need for cheap and safe devices that improve the operation of swimming pool skimmers.
The present disclosure provides several systems for increasing the range of a pool skimmer that has a skimmer opening located in a sidewall of a swimming pool.
One such system includes:
a) a swimming pool comprising a basin configured to hold water and a plurality of sidewalls defining a perimeter of the basin;
b) a skimmer comprising a skimmer opening located in one of the sidewalls, the skimmer opening in fluid communication with the basin; and
c) a weir assembly located in the basin and adjacent to the skimmer opening, the weir assembly abutting the one sidewall and comprising a plurality of fastener apertures and a weir located in the basin, the weir configured to move in response to changing water levels in the basin, the weir assembly configured to deliver water from the basin to the skimmer opening.
Optionally, the weir is configured to move above the skimmer opening so that water located above the skimmer opening can enter the skimmer. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a vacuum release door and a vacuum release opening, the vacuum release door configured to move between a closed position wherein the vacuum release door closes the vacuum release opening and an open position wherein the vacuum release door allows water located in the basin to enter through the vacuum release opening and enter the skimmer opening. Optionally, the vacuum release door is located in the weir. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a hinge attaching the vacuum release door to the weir assembly and the vacuum release door is moveable (more particularly pivotable) along the hinge. Optionally, the weir assembly comprises a top half and a bottom half and the vacuum release opening is located in the bottom half of the weir assembly. Optionally, the weir assembly has a height of at least about 4 inches and a width of at least about 4 inches, e.g., a height of from about 4 to about 14 inches and a width of from about 4 inches to about 24 inches.
Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a plate abutting the pool sidewall, the plate comprising the plurality of fastener apertures, the plate preventing water in the basin from entering the skimmer opening without passing over the weir. Optionally, the plate comprises a flat portion abutting the one sidewall. Optionally, the plate further comprises a plate opening located between the weir and the skimmer opening, the plate opening configured to feed water to the skimmer opening, and further wherein the weir at least partially covers the plate opening. Optionally, the weir further comprises a top, the top comprising an opening configured to feed water from the basin to the plate opening. Optionally, the plate opening has a cross-sectional area from about 4 square inches to about 50 square inches (more preferably from about 16 square inches to about 40 square inches).
Optionally, the system further comprises a plurality of fasteners attaching the weir assembly to the one sidewall. Optionally, the system further comprises a pool pump in fluid communication with the skimmer, the skimmer further comprises a throat and a water exit aperture/drain that feeds water from the skimmer to the pool pump, the throat located between the skimmer opening and the water exit aperture/drain, and the system further comprises an adjustable frame located in the throat, the adjustable frame having an adjustable length and an adjustable height.
Optionally, the system further comprises a plurality of fastener apertures located in the adjustable frame and a plurality of fasteners attaching the adjustable frame to the weir assembly, each of the plurality of fasteners passing through a fastener aperture located in the weir assembly and a fastener aperture located in the adjustable frame. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a floor located at a bottom of the weir assembly, the floor abutting the one pool sidewall, the floor configured to inhibit water located in the basin from entering the skimmer opening from below the floor. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a motor configured to move the weir in response to changing water levels in the basin. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a track configured to allow the weir to move in response to changing water levels in the basin. Optionally, the system further comprises a power source configured to power the motor. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a top and the top comprises a solar panel configured to power the motor. Optionally, the system further comprises a water level sensor configured to sense the water level in the basin, and a processor connected to the water level sensor and configured to move the weir in response to data concerning the water level in the basin received from the water level sensor. Optionally, the basin is filled with water, and the weir comprises a top and a float located adjacent to the top, the float configured to allow the top of the weir to float in the water. Optionally, the weir is buoyant in water.
The present invention also provides a method of using a pool skimmer system to increase the range of a pool skimmer, the method comprising:
a) providing the pool skimmer system; and
b) flowing water from the basin over the weir (i.e., at least partially over the weir) and into the skimmer opening.
In other embodiments, the present disclosure provides a system that includes at least one track attached to the sidewall and adjacent to the skimmer opening. The track has a track length generally perpendicular to the ground. The first system also includes a weir attached to the track and moveable in a generally vertical position along the track length in response to changing water levels in the pool (more particularly, water levels in the pool basin). The weir preferably is configured to feed water located in the pool (more particularly, in the basin) to the skimmer opening. Preferably, water from the pool flows through a weir recess in the weir and into the skimmer opening. In some embodiments, the weir recess is located in a quarter sphere portion of the weir. Preferably, the system includes two tracks and each track has a track length, a track recess surface extending along the track length, and a sidewall surface configured to face, preferably, abut (and optionally, to attach, directly or indirectly to) the pool sidewall and disposed at about a 90 degree angle relative to the track recess surface. Optionally, the weir includes a vacuum release opening and a vacuum release door that is configured to move between a closed position in which the door seals the opening and an open position in which the door allows water to enter through the opening. Optionally, the track sidewall surfaces include fastener apertures to attach the track directly or indirectly to the pool sidewall or to the adjustable frame described above. Preferably, the first system includes a weir fastener for immobilizing the skimmer weir (i.e., the weir located inside the skimmer throat). Optionally, the track and weir are comprised of clear plastic.
Another system generally relates to a deflector that faces, preferably abuts (and optionally is attached, directly or indirectly to), the sidewall and that extends outwards into the pool and above the skimmer opening. The deflector further includes an opening. The opening may be centrally located or may be a side opening that is positioned to capture water circulating in a clockwise or counter-clockwise fashion (depending on the circulation pattern of water within the pool, more particularly, within the basin). The opening feeds water to the skimmer opening. As with the prior embodiment, preferably the skimmer weir is immobilized by a weir fastener or removed. Preferably, the deflector does not move within the swimming pool other than to slightly deform in response to pressure applied to the deflector. Preferably, the opening spans substantially the entire height of the deflector and at least above the skimmer opening. Preferably, the deflector includes fastener apertures and fasteners for attaching the deflector directly or indirectly to the sidewall or to the adjustable frame. Preferably, the deflector is attached to a skimmer faceplate that is attached to the pool sidewall. Preferably, the deflector includes a solid, water impermeable floor, which may abut the sidewall, and a top opening so that water flows through only the side or top openings. Preferably, the deflector extends into the pool (more particularly the pool basin) a distance of about 1 inch to about 18 inches so that the deflector does not interfere with swimmers in the pool and the deflector has a height of at least 8 inches (e.g., about 8 inches to about 20 inches).
In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a system for improving the range of a pool skimmer, the system comprising:
a) a swimming pool comprising a basin configured to hold water and a plurality of sidewalls defining a perimeter of the basin;
b) a pool skimmer, the pool skimmer comprising a skimmer opening located in one of the sidewalls and a skimmer interior; and
c) a deflector adjacent to the sidewall comprising the skimmer opening and extending into the basin, the deflector having a rear facing the skimmer opening and comprising a first opening in fluid communication with the skimmer and configured to feed water through the skimmer opening, a front opposite the rear, a left side, a right side, and an interior defined by the front, the rear, and the left and right sides, at least one of the front, the left side and the right side comprising a second opening configured to deliver water from the pool basin to the deflector interior and the first opening, the second opening having a width of at least about 1 inch and a height of at least about 1 inch.
Optionally, the second opening has a height of from about 4 inches to about 12 inches and a width of from about 1 inch about 6 inches. Optionally, the second opening extends above the skimmer opening. The second opening may extend above the skimmer opening at least about 1 inch, preferably about 2 to about 6 inches. Optionally, the rear of the deflector is substantially flat. Optionally, the rear of the deflector is attached to a plate comprising a gasket abutting the pool sidewall. Optionally, the deflector further comprises a weir configured to at least partially cover the second opening, the weir configured to move upwards and downwards in response to changing water levels in the pool basin. Optionally, the weir is configured to move above the skimmer opening. Optionally, the weir is configured to move upwards and downwards in an arc. Optionally, the deflector further comprises at least one track adjacent to the second opening and further wherein the weir is configured to move along the track. Optionally, the deflector is generally circular. Optionally, the weir further comprises at least one wheel and the at least one wheel is configured to move along the track. Optionally, the deflector further comprises two tracks located on opposite sides of the second opening, and further wherein the weir further comprises at least two wheels located on opposite sides of the weir and each wheel is configured to move along a track. Optionally, the tracks are curved and each track forms an arc. Optionally, the second opening is on the left side of the deflector, and the deflector further comprises a third opening on the right side of the deflector, the second and third openings each having a height of from about 4 inches to about 12 inches and a width of from about 1 inch about 6 inches, and the deflector further comprises two tracks adjacent to the second opening and two tracks adjacent to the third opening. Optionally, the weir further comprises at least two wheels located on opposite sides of the weir and each wheel is configured to move along a track adjacent to the second opening, and the deflector further comprises a third weir comprising at least two wheels located on opposite sides of the third weir and each wheel of the third weir is configured to move along a track adjacent to the third opening. Optionally, the weir is buoyant in water. Optionally, the weir comprises a top, a bottom, a tab extending from the top, and a float. Optionally, the float is attached to the tab. Optionally, the float comprises foam. Optionally, the weir comprises a top, a bottom, and a height extending from the top to the bottom, and the weir is curved along its height. Optionally, the weir is configured to move upwards and downwards along an arc in response to changing water levels in the pool basin. Optionally, the deflector further comprises a vacuum release door and a vacuum release opening, the vacuum release door configured to move between a closed position wherein the vacuum release door closes the vacuum release opening and an open position wherein the vacuum release door allows water located in the basin to enter through the vacuum release opening and enter the deflector interior and the first opening. Optionally, the deflector further comprises a hinge attaching the vacuum release door to the deflector and further wherein the vacuum release door is moveable along the hinge. Optionally, the deflector comprises a tab located exterior to the vacuum release door, the tab configured to prevent the vacuum release door from rotating beyond the tab. Optionally, the deflector comprises a top half and a bottom half and the vacuum release opening is located in the bottom half of the deflector. Optionally, the deflector further comprises a magnet to bias the vacuum release door in the closed position. Optionally, the deflector further comprises a bypass opening and a bypass door to removably close the bypass opening, the bypass door configured to move between a closed position wherein the bypass door closes the bypass opening and an open position wherein the bypass door allows water located in the basin to enter through the bypass opening and enter the first opening. Optionally, the bypass door is configured to rotate relative to the bypass opening. Optionally, the bypass door is generally circular in shape and is configured to rotate about a pivot point located in a center of the circle. Optionally, the bypass door is configured to move vertically relative to the bypass opening. Optionally, the system comprises a tube extending from the deflector rear and adjacent to the first opening, the tube having a front end attached to the deflector rear, a rear end, a hollow interior in fluid communication with the first opening, and a wall. Optionally, the tube wall comprises threads. Optionally, the system further comprises a nut comprising threads configured to mate with the tube wall threads. Optionally, the system further comprises a frame located inside the skimmer interior, the frame comprising an aperture receiving the tube, further wherein the nut is attached to the tube, and further wherein the frame is located between the nut and the skimmer opening. Optionally, the deflector further comprises at least one fastener configured to removably attach the deflector to the skimmer interior. Optionally, the fastener is a suction cup. Optionally, except for the first opening, at least 95% of the surface area of the skimmer opening is covered. Optionally, the deflector further comprises a substantially water impermeable floor. Optionally, the deflector further comprises a top, the top comprising a top aperture. Optionally, the pool skimmer further comprises a skimmer weir located inside the pool skimmer interior and the skimmer weir is immobilized. Optionally, the pool skimmer does not have a skimmer weir in the skimmer interior.
In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of using a system to increase the range of a pool skimmer that includes
a) providing the system; and
b) flowing water from the basin, through the second opening, through the deflector interior, through the first opening, through the skimmer opening, and into the skimmer interior.
In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a pool skimmer system comprising:
a) a swimming pool comprising a basin configured to hold water and a plurality of sidewalls defining a perimeter of the basin;
b) a pool skimmer, the pool skimmer comprising a skimmer opening located in a sidewall and a skimmer interior;
c) two tracks located in the pool basin; and
d) a weir located in the pool basin, the weir configured to move upwards and downwards and regulate water entering the skimmer opening, the weir having opposite sides, each of the opposite sides having at least one wheel attached thereto, each of the wheels received in a track.
Optionally, the tracks are curved and the weir is configured to move in an arc upwards and downwards. Optionally, the skimmer interior further comprises a skimmer basket. Optionally, the system further comprises a pump in fluid communication with the basin and the skimmer interior.
In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a pool skimmer comprising:
a) a skimmer interior;
b) a front end comprising a top, a bottom, and a skimmer opening leading to the skimmer interior and comprising a top, a bottom, a left side, a right side, a width extending from the skimmer opening left side to the skimmer opening right side of at least about 2 inches and a height extending from the skimmer opening top to the skimmer opening bottom of from about 2 inches to about 16 inches (preferably about 5 inches to about 16 inches);
c) a rear end comprising a top comprising a top opening, a lid configured to removably close the top opening, a bottom comprising a bottom opening in fluid communication with the skimmer opening, a well located directly below the top opening, the bottom opening extending into the well, a skimmer basket located in the well and comprising a floor, a sidewall extending from the floor, at least one of the floor and the sidewall comprising a plurality of apertures; and
d) a middle portion located between the front end and the rear end and comprising a top, a bottom, and a throat in fluid communication with the skimmer opening and the rear end, wherein the top of the front end, the top of the rear end, and the top of the middle portion are within about 1 inch of each other when the top of the front end, the top of the rear end, and the top of the middle portion are positioned parallel to the ground.
Optionally, the top of the front end, the top of the rear end, and the top of the middle portion are within about 0.5 inches of each other when the top of the front end, the top of the rear end, and the top of the middle portion are positioned parallel to the ground.
Optionally, the height of the skimmer opening is from about 8 inches to about 14 inches. Optionally, the width of the skimmer opening is between about 3 and about 6 inches. Optionally, the pool skimmer further includes a weir configured to move upwards and downwards. Optionally, the weir is located adjacent to the skimmer opening (e.g., about 0 to about 6 inches from the skimmer opening). Optionally, the skimmer comprises a left track and a right track and the weir is configured is configured to move along the left and right tracks. Optionally, the weir further comprises at least one left wheel located in the left track and at least one right wheel located in the right track. Optionally, the weir further comprises a float. Optionally, the float comprises foam. Optionally, the weir is hingedly attached to the skimmer and is configured to pivot between a horizontal position in which the weir is parallel to the lid and a vertical position in which the weir is perpendicular to the lid. Optionally, the weir further comprises a vacuum release door and a vacuum release opening, the vacuum release door configured to move between a closed position wherein the vacuum release door closes the vacuum release opening and an open position wherein the vacuum release door allows water to enter through the vacuum release opening. Optionally the weir further comprises a hinge attaching the vacuum release door to the weir and further wherein the vacuum release door is moveable along the hinge. Optionally, the weir comprises a tab located exterior to the vacuum release door, the tab configured to prevent the vacuum release door from rotating beyond the tab. Optionally, the weir comprises a top half and a bottom half and the vacuum release opening is located in the bottom half of the weir. Optionally, the throat has a length of from about 3 inches to about 12 inches. Optionally, the throat is generally rectangular in shape.
Without being bound to any particular theory, it is believed that the apparatuses are relatively cheap to manufacture, safe, conserve water and chemical use, and allow for an aesthetically pleasing full pool.
The present disclosure provides several systems for increasing the range of a pool skimmer 100. The first system is designated by the numeral 200, is illustrated in
Referring further to the first system 200, as shown in
The first system 200, as previously noted, is particularly useful in conjunction with the typical skimmer 100 illustrated in
In addition to the optional skimmer weir 170, the first system 200 further includes an additional weir 230. The additional weir 230 is configured to be received in the track recess 225 when the track 210 faces, preferably abuts, and (optionally is attached to) the sidewall 120 so that the additional weir 230 may move in a generally vertical direction (relative to the ground) along the track length 215 in response to changing water levels in the pool 110 (more particularly, the basin 121).
Preferably, the forces acting on the additional weir 230 keep at least a portion of the top edge 231 of the additional weir 230 (preferably at least weir recess portion 235 of top edge 231 as described below) at or near the top surface of water in the pool 110 during normal operation so that the additional weir 230 only allows the top, debris-containing layer of water in the pool 110 to enter skimmer the opening 135. For example, preferably, at least a portion of the top edge 231 of the additional weir 230 is at or near the top surface of water in the pool 110 when the pool 110 (more particularly basin 121) is filled with water to the top of skimmer opening 135. Preferably, a majority of the surface area of the additional weir 230 is submerged in the pool water during normal operation so that the additional weir 230 inhibits non-debris-containing water from entering skimmer opening 135. Those of ordinary skill will appreciate that such forces will include at least the buoyancy of the additional weir 230. The forces may also include the suction power of the skimmer 100. Optionally, the additional weir 230 includes one or more sealed air jackets 240 to increase its buoyancy. Alternatively, the additional weir 230 may be comprised of foam. The system 200 may be comprised of any suitable material, including without limitation, clear plastic (e.g., clear injection molded plastic). Preferably, the track 210 is comprised of a resilient plastic to prevent deformation.
The track 210 extends at least above, and preferably above and below the skimmer opening 135 so that the top edge 231 of the additional weir 230 has the ability to move at least above (and preferably above and below) the skimmer opening 135 so that the additional weir 230 increases the range of the skimmer 100.
As shown in
The first system 200 generally eliminates the need for the skimmer weir 170 as the additional weir 230 is responsible for skimming the top, debris-containing layer of the water in the pool 110. Preferably, the first system 200 further includes a weir fastener 250 (e.g., a clip with two prongs) removably attached to the skimmer weir 170 for immobilizing the skimmer weir 170 at an angle other than 90 degrees relative to the ground (i.e., at a position other than the vertical position 170A). Preferably, the weir fastener 250 has a bottom portion 251 that contacts the top edge 171 of the skimmer weir 170 and a top portion 252 that contacts the top wall 197 of the throat 196 of the skimmer 100, as shown in
A particular shape of the additional weir 230 will now be described. However, it will be understood that the shape described is merely exemplary and that the additional weir 230 may have any suitable shape. Preferably, as shown in
In some embodiments, the additional weir 230 further includes a vacuum release door opening 260 and a vacuum release door 261. The vacuum release door 261 is configured to move between a closed position wherein the vacuum release door 261 closes (more preferably seals) the opening 260 and an open position wherein the vacuum release door 261 allows water to enter through the vacuum release opening 260. Without being bound to any particular theory, it is believed that a purpose of the vacuum release door 261, which is ordinarily in the closed position, is that if a child were to push the top edge 231 of the additional weir 230 above the water level in the pool 110 (more particularly basin 121), a vacuum may be created between the additional weir 230 and the pool sidewall 120 due to suction of the additional weir 230 to the pool sidewall 120 caused by skimmer 100. In addition, when the top edge 231 of the additional weir 230 is pushed above the water level in the pool 110 by the child, the water behind the additional weir 230 (i.e., between additional weir 230 and skimmer 100) will be drained into skimmer opening 135 without being replenished, causing water in the pool 110 to exert pressure on the additional weir 230 without a counter-acting force from water behind the additional weir 230 (because the water behind the additional weir 230 is drained). To alleviate such issues, these forces cause the door 261 to move to the open position, allowing water to enter and destroying the vacuum, thereby releasing the additional weir 230 from the sidewall 120 and relieving water pressure exerted on the additional weir 230.
The vacuum release opening 260 and door 261 are generally the same shape and may be any suitable shape, such as generally circular or rectangular. Preferably, the vacuum release door 261 and opening 260 are located in the lower half of the additional weir 230 so that the door 261 and opening 260 still will be submerged when a child pushes the additional weir 230 upwards, given that a purpose of the door 261 and opening 260 is to allow water to pass through the opening 260 when a child pushes the additional weir 230 upwards. The vacuum release door 261 may use any suitable mechanism to bias the door 261 in the closed position, such as a spring 262 or magnet. If a spring 262 is used, the first system 200 may further include a nylon or plastic bolt 264 that passes through an aperture 267 in the additional weir 230. The aperture 267 is slightly smaller than the shaft of the bolt 264, which when pressed into position becomes rigid and tight and non-moveable. The vacuum release door 261 then slides onto the bolt 264 from the rear side. The forward end 263 of the spring 262 rests against the door 261 and the rear end 266 of the spring 262 rests against a washer 265. A nylon or plastic nut 268 is placed to the rear of the washer 265 so that the washer 265 cannot move rearwardly (i.e., towards the sidewall 120) and the spring 262 applies a force to bias the door 261 in a closed position. In another embodiment, a magnet attached to the door 261 or additional weir 230 is used to bias the door 261 in a closed position. If a magnet is used, the door 261 may be hinged to the additional weir 230.
Optionally, the first system 200 is provided as a kit.
The first system 200 may be installed by any suitable process. Optionally, the process includes:
a) removing skimmer faceplate fasteners 146;
b) placing two tracks 210 on the left and right sides of the skimmer opening 135 so that the track sidewall surfaces abut the faceplate 145, the track lengths 215 are perpendicular to the ground, the track recess surfaces 220 of each track 210 face each other, and the faceplate fastener apertures 147 are aligned with the track fastener apertures 222;
c) inserting the track fasteners 223 through the faceplate fastener apertures 147 and the track fastener apertures 222 so that track 210 is secured to faceplate 145 and the sidewall 120; and
d) positioning the additional weir 230 in the track recesses 225 so that additional weir 230 is moveable along track lengths 215.
Steps a) through d) may be performed in any suitable order, including simultaneously. Preferably, the track fasteners 223 are slightly longer than the fasteners 146 that are conventionally used to attach the faceplate 145 to the pool sidewall 120, given that the track fasteners 223 must pass through an additional material, namely the tracks 210. The process may include additional steps, such as removing the skimmer weir 170 or providing a weir fastener 250 and immobilizing the skimmer weir 170 with the weir fastener 250.
The second system is generally designated by the numeral 300, is illustrated in
As with the prior embodiment, preferably the skimmer weir 170 is immobilized by a weir fastener 250 or the skimmer weir 170 is removed in the second system 300. In some embodiments, the deflector 330 does not move within the pool 110 other than to slightly deform in response to pressure applied to the deflector 330. Preferably, the deflector 330 is comprised of rubber. Preferably, the opening 320 spans substantially the entire height 335 of the deflector 300, as shown in
Optionally, the deflector 330 includes a left flap 370 and a right flap 380 and the opening 320 is located between the left and right flaps 370 and 380, as shown in
It will be appreciated the second system 300, like the first system 200 increases the range of a pool skimmer 100 and preferably does not block all water from entering the skimmer opening 135, unlike U.S. Pat. No. 7,993,515 to Davies. Rather, the deflector 330 (more particularly openings 320 and 350) feeds water to the skimmer opening 135.
However, unlike the first system 200, which feeds only the top, debris-containing layer to skimmer opening 135, the second system 300, as described above, is less selective and generally feeds any water that is able to enter through the openings 320 and 350 to the skimmer opening 135. To alleviate this, as seen in
In some embodiments, the deflector 330 includes a vacuum release door 311 and vacuum release opening 312 having the same features as described above for the first system 200 (e.g., spring or magnet-operated system). Optionally, if the second system 300 includes an additional weir 313, the vacuum release door 311 and vacuum release opening 312 may be located on the additional weir 313, as shown in
Optionally, to increase the suction power of the second system 300, the deflector 330 includes a narrow channel behind deflector 330 and in front of skimmer opening 135 that has a smaller cross-sectional area than the cross-sectional area of the opening 320. For example, in some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the channel is from about 4 square inches to about 36 square inches at its narrowest point, more preferably from about 4 square inches to about 20 square inches. This allows the narrow channel to take advantage of the Bernoulli principle, which holds that velocity of water increases when water flows through a narrow constriction. It has been observed in the inventor's experimentation with similar systems that it is advantageous to locate a narrow constriction further into the pool basin 121 (i.e., further from sidewall 120) because doing so allows the suction power created by the constriction to extend further into the basin 121 (and thereby potentially increase the skimming radius of the skimmer 100). In other words, the suction force decreases as the distance from the constriction increases. In such embodiments, preferably the top of deflector 330 is closed (i.e., lacks top opening 350) and water enters through the opening 320, into narrow channel and then into skimmer opening 135. Optionally, the cross-sectional area of the openings 320 and channel may decrease gradually like a funnel to aid the flow of water and debris therethrough. In other embodiments, as opposed to a weir 313 that moves vertically, the opening 320 has a door (not shown) that can be moved by a user laterally over the opening 320 to partially close the opening 320 and reduce the size of opening 320, and thereby take advantage of the Bernoulli principle.
In some embodiments, as opposed to being attached to the pool sidewall 120, the first and second systems 200 and 300 are attached to the skimmer 100 via an adjustable frame 400, as shown in
Optionally, the second system 300 is provided as a kit.
The second system 300 may be installed by any suitable process. Optionally, the process includes:
a) removing skimmer faceplate fasteners 146;
b) positioning the flat portions 316 so they abut the faceplate 145 and the faceplate fastener apertures 147 are aligned with the deflector fastener apertures 310; and
c) inserting the deflector fasteners 315 through the faceplate fastener apertures 147 and the deflector fastener apertures 310 so that deflector 330 is secured to the faceplate 145 and sidewall 120.
In other embodiments, the process includes:
a) removing skimmer weir 170;
b) positioning the adjustable frame 400 into the throat 196 and adjusting the frame's height and width so that the adjustable frame 400 cannot move forwardly within the throat 196 (i.e., towards sidewall 120 by, for example, placing the adjustable frame 400 in the same location vacated by the skimmer weir 170);
c) positioning the deflector 330 so that the deflector rear faces, preferably abuts, the sidewall 120 and the deflector fastener apertures 310 are aligned with the expandable frame apertures 402; and
d) inserting the deflector fasteners 315 through the deflector fastener apertures 310 and the frame apertures 402 so that deflector 330 is secured to the frame 400.
The above steps may be performed in any suitable order, including simultaneously, and may include additional steps (e.g., the first method may also include removing the skimmer weir 170 or providing a weir fastener 250 and immobilizing the first weir 170 with the weir fastener 250.). Preferably, in the first method, the deflector fasteners 315 are slightly longer than the fasteners 146 that are conventionally used to attach the faceplate 145 to the pool sidewall 120, given that the deflector fasteners 315 must pass through an additional material, namely the deflector 330. Preferably, for the second method, the deflector fasteners 315 have a length of from about 6 to about 18 inches.
The present disclosure also provides a third system 500 that is similar in design and function as the first system 200. In some embodiments, the third system 500 includes:
a) a swimming pool 110 comprising a basin 121 configured to hold water and a plurality of sidewalls 120 defining a perimeter of the basin 121;
b) a skimmer 100 comprising a skimmer opening 135 located in one of the sidewalls 120, the skimmer opening 135 in fluid communication with the basin 121; and
c) a weir assembly 532 located in the basin 121 and adjacent to the skimmer opening 135, the weir assembly 532 abutting the one sidewall 120 and comprising a plurality of fastener apertures 521 and an additional weir 530 located in the basin 121, the additional weir 530 configured to move in response to changing water levels in the basin 121, the weir assembly 532 configured to deliver water from the basin 121 to the skimmer opening 135.
Optionally, the additional weir 530 is configured to move above the skimmer opening 135 so that water located above the skimmer opening 135 can enter the skimmer 100. Optionally, the weir assembly 532 further comprises a vacuum release door 533 and a vacuum release opening 534, the vacuum release door 533 configured to move between a closed position wherein the vacuum release door 533 closes the vacuum release opening 534 and an open position wherein the vacuum release door 533 allows water located in the basin 121 to enter through the vacuum release opening 534 and enter the skimmer opening 135. (Again, the vacuum release door and opening 533 and 534 may have the same components as described with the first system 200). Preferably, the vacuum release door and opening 533 and 534 are external to the skimmer 100 (i.e., located in basin 121) and optionally, the vacuum release door 533 is located in the weir 530. Optionally, the weir assembly 532 further comprises a hinge attaching the vacuum release door 533 to the weir assembly 532 and the vacuum release door 533 is moveable (more particularly, pivotable) along the hinge. Optionally, the weir assembly 532 comprises a top half and a bottom half and the vacuum release opening 534 is located in the bottom half of the weir assembly 532. Optionally, the weir assembly 532 has a height of at least about 4 inches and a width of at least about 4 inches, e.g., a height of from about 4 to about 14 inches and a width of from about 4 inches to about 24 inches.
Optionally, the weir assembly 532 further comprises a plate 531 abutting the pool sidewall 120 (e.g. directly abutting the sidewall 120 or abutting faceplate 145 attached to the sidewall 120), the plate 531 comprising the plurality of fastener apertures 521, the plate 531 preventing water in the basin 121 from entering the skimmer opening 135 without passing over the weir 530. Optionally, the plate 531 comprises a flat, rear portion abutting the one sidewall 120. Optionally, as shown in
Optionally, the system 500 further comprises a plurality of fasteners 520 attaching the weir assembly 532 (more particularly, the plate 531) to the one sidewall 120. Optionally, the system 500 further comprises a pool pump 190 in fluid communication with the skimmer 100, the skimmer 100 further comprises a throat 196 and a water exit aperture/drain 199 located below basket 160 that feeds water from the skimmer 100 to the pool pump 190, the throat 196 located between the skimmer opening 135 and the water exit aperture/drain 199, and the system 500 further comprises an adjustable frame 400 located in the throat 196, as described above.
Optionally, the system 500 further comprises a plurality of fastener apertures 402 located in the adjustable frame 400 and a plurality of fasteners 520 attaching the adjustable frame 400 to the weir assembly 532, each of the plurality of fasteners 520 passing through a fastener aperture 521 located in the weir assembly 532 and a fastener aperture 402 located in the adjustable frame 400. Optionally, the weir assembly 532 further comprises a floor 539 located at a bottom of the weir assembly 532, the floor 539 abutting the one pool sidewall 120, the floor 539 configured to inhibit water located in the basin 121 from entering the skimmer opening 135 from below the floor 539. Optionally, the weir assembly 532 further comprises a motor 540 configured to move the weir 530 in response to changing water levels in the basin 121. Optionally, the weir assembly 132 further comprises a track 510 (e.g., one or more tracks) configured to allow the weir 530 to move in response to changing water levels in the basin 121. The track(s) 510 may be generally perpendicular to the ground, in which case, the weir 530 moves vertically up and down, as shown in
Referring further to
a) a swimming pool 110 comprising a basin 121 configured to hold water and a plurality of sidewalls 120 defining a perimeter of the basin 121;
b) a pool skimmer 100, the pool skimmer 100 comprising a skimmer opening 135 located in one of the sidewalls 120 and a skimmer interior 700; and
c) a deflector 330 adjacent to the sidewall 120 comprising the skimmer opening 135 (preferably directly in front of the skimmer opening 135) and extending into the basin 121, the deflector 330 having a rear 701 facing the skimmer opening 135 and comprising a first opening 706 in fluid communication with the skimmer 100 and configured to feed water through the skimmer opening 135, a front 702 opposite the rear 701, a left side 703, a right side 704, and an interior 705 defined by the front 702, the rear 701, and the left and right sides 703 and 704, at least one of the front 702, the left side and the right side 703 and 704 comprising a second opening 320 configured to deliver water from the pool basin 121 to the deflector interior 705 and the first opening 706, the second opening 320 having a median width 707 of at least about 1 inch and a height 708 of at least about 1 inch. In some embodiments, the deflector rear 701 is open (like the deflector rear of
Preferably, the first opening 706 is configured to deliver water through the skimmer opening 135 by feeding water through a tube/pipe 722 as best seen in
Optionally, the second opening 320 has a height of from about 4 inches to about 12 inches (more preferably about 7 inches to about 12 inches) and a median width of from about 1 inch to about 6 inches. Optionally, the second opening 320 extends above the skimmer opening 135. The second opening 320 may extend above the skimmer opening 135 at least about 1 inch, preferably about 2 to about 6 inches. Optionally, the rear 701 of the deflector 330 is substantially flat. Optionally, the rear 701 of the deflector 330 is attached to a plate 709 comprising an aperture 733 for receiving the pipe/tube 722 and a gasket 710 abutting the one sidewall 120 so that the plate 709 creates a seal so that water must enter through the second opening 320 (instead of entering directly through the skimmer opening 135). Optionally, the deflector 330 further comprises an additional weir 230 configured to at least partially cover the second opening 320, the additional weir 230 configured to move upwards and downwards in response to changing water levels in the pool basin 121. Optionally, the additional weir 230 is configured to move above the skimmer opening 135. Optionally, the additional weir 230 is configured to move upwards and downwards in an arc in response to changing water levels in the pool basin 121. Optionally, the arc is circular, elliptical, ovoidal in shape and/or forms part of a circle, ellipse or oval. Optionally, the deflector 330 further comprises at least one track 210 adjacent to the second opening 320 and the additional weir 230 is configured to move along the track 210. Optionally, the deflector 330 is generally circular. Optionally, the additional weir 230 further comprises at least one wheel 627/628 and the at least one wheel 627/628 is configured to move along the track 210. Optionally, the deflector 330 further comprises two tracks 210 (e.g., a front track 210A and a rear track 210B) located on opposite sides of the second opening 320, and the additional weir 230 further comprises at least two wheels 627/628 (e.g., two to six wheels 627/628) distributed on opposite sides of the additional weir 230 (e.g., the front and rear sides) and each wheel 627/628 is configured to move along a track 210, as best seen in
The deflector 330 can be attached, directly or indirectly, to the pool sidewall 120 by any acceptable method. For example, a nut 729 may be screwed onto the pipe/tube 722 extending from the deflector 330 and a frame 400, with an aperture 728 receiving the pipe/tube 722, may be located between the nut 729 and the skimmer opening 135. In such a case, the frame 400 is prevented from moving rearwardly by the nut 729 and the frame 400 is prevented from moving forward due to the flanges 198 located in the skimmer interior 700. For example, the Hayward model SP1070 skimmer (Hayward Industries, Elizabeth N.J.) has flanges 198 on the top and the bottom in the location where the skimmer weir 170 is normally located and in such skimmers, the skimmer weir 170 is removed and the top and bottom flanges 198 prevent the frame 400 from moving forward. In other embodiments, the deflector 330 and/or plate 709 may be screwed to the faceplate 135 in the case of a vinyl pool or an adjustable frame 400 located inside the throat 196 as described in the prior embodiments. Optionally, the deflector 330 further comprises a substantially water impermeable floor 340 such that, for example, approximately 95% of the surface area of the floor 340 is not permeable to water, it being understood that the bypass door 719 and opening 720 may be located on the floor 340. Optionally, the top of the deflector comprises a top aperture 350 allowing water to also enter the deflector interior 705 through the top aperture 350. Optionally, the pool skimmer 100 further comprises a skimmer weir 170 located inside the pool skimmer interior 700 and the skimmer weir 170 is immobilized. Optionally, the pool skimmer 100 does not have a skimmer weir 170 in the skimmer interior 700. Optionally, the skimmer interior 700 further comprises a skimmer basket 160. Optionally, the system further comprises a pump 190 in fluid communication with the basin 121 and the skimmer interior 700. Optionally, the deflector 330 further comprises a removable large debris door 731, which slides into the deflector 330 via tracks (not shown), and covers a large debris opening 732. The function of the large debris door 731 and opening 732 is that the large debris door 731 normally covers the large debris opening 732 but the large debris door 731 can be removed for example in the fall months so that large leaves and other debris can enter into the deflector interior 705 given that the large debris door 731 has a width that is typically larger than the width 707 of the second opening 320. Optionally, the median width of the large debris door 731 is from about 3 inches to about 8 inches and the large debris door has a height of approximately 3 inches to about 12 inches. In some embodiments, the deflector 330 described directly above is provided as a kit that attaches to the sidewall 120 and/or skimmer 100 and includes one or more features, including but not limited to the additional weir 230, tracks 210, wheels 627/628, vacuum release door 261, vacuum release opening 260, bypass door 719, bypass opening 720, large debris door 731, large debris opening 732, and pipe 722.
In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of using a system to increase the range of a pool skimmer that includes
a) providing the system described above; and
b) flowing water from the basin 121, through the second opening 320, through the deflector interior 705, through the first opening 706, through the skimmer opening 135, and into the skimmer interior 700.
As described above, it has been found that wheels 627/628 are particularly useful for moving the additional weir 230 to reduce friction. Thus, in some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a pool skimmer system comprising:
a) a swimming pool 100 comprising a basin 121 configured to hold water and a plurality of sidewalls 120 defining a perimeter of the basin 121;
b) a pool skimmer 100 comprising a skimmer opening 135 located in one of the sidewalls 120 and a skimmer interior 700;
c) two tracks 210 located in the pool basin 121; and
d) an additional weir 230 located in the pool basin 121, the additional weir 230 configured to move upwards and downwards and regulate water entering the skimmer opening 135, the additional weir 230 having two opposite sides, each of the opposite sides having at least one wheel 627/628 attached thereto, each of the wheels 627/628 received in a track 210.
Optionally, the tracks 210 are curved and the additional weir 230 is configured to move in an arc upwards and downwards in response to changing water levels in the pool basin 121.
In other embodiments, the additional weir 230 with attached wheels 627/628 is located inside the skimmer interior 700. In such embodiments, the present disclosure provides a pool skimmer system comprising:
a) a swimming pool 100 comprising a basin 121 configured to hold water and a plurality of sidewalls 120 defining a perimeter of the basin 121;
b) a pool skimmer 100 comprising a skimmer opening 135 located in one of the sidewalls 120 and a skimmer interior 700;
c) two tracks 210 located in the skimmer interior 700; and
d) a weir 170 located the skimmer interior 700, the weir 170 configured to move upwards and downwards in response to changing water levels in the basin 121, the weir 170 having two opposite sides, each of the opposite sides having at least one wheel 627/628 attached thereto, each of the wheels 627/628 received in a track 210.
Optionally, in either of these embodiments described directly above, the skimmer interior 700 further comprises a skimmer basket 160. Optionally, the system further comprises a pump 190 in fluid communication with the basin 121 and the skimmer interior 700. In addition to these features, the system may have any of the features described above with respect to
As shown in
a) a front end 600 comprising a top 601, a bottom 602, and a skimmer opening 135 leading to the skimmer interior 700 and comprising a top 605, a bottom 606, a left side 604, a right side 603, a width 608 extending from the skimmer opening left side 604 to the skimmer opening right side 603 of at least about 2 inches and a height 607 extending from the skimmer opening top 605 to the skimmer opening bottom 606 of from about 2 inches to about 16 inches;
b) a rear end 610 comprising a top 611 comprising a top opening 612, a lid 613 configured to removably close the top opening 612, a bottom 614 comprising a bottom opening 199 in fluid communication with the skimmer opening 135, a well 616 located directly below the top opening 612, the bottom opening 199 extending into the well 616, a skimmer basket 160 located in the well 616 and comprising a floor 617, a sidewall 618 extending from the floor 617, at least one of the floor 617 and the basket sidewall 618 comprising a plurality of apertures configured to allow water to flow from the basket 160 to the bottom opening 199 and ultimately the pump 190; and
c) a middle portion 620 located between the front end 600 and the rear end 610 and comprising a top 621, a bottom 622, a height extending from the top 621 to the bottom 622 and a throat 196 in fluid communication with the skimmer opening and the rear end 610, wherein the top 601 of the front end 600, the top 611 of the rear end 610, and the top 621 of the middle portion 620 are within about 1 inch of each other when the top 601 of the front end 600, the top 611 of the rear end 610, and the top 621 of the middle portion 620 are positioned parallel to the ground. Optionally, the top 601 of the front end 600, the top 611 of the rear end 610, and the top 621 of the middle portion 620 are within about 0.5 inches of each other (i.e., 0 to about 0.5 inches) when the top 601 of the front end 600, the top 611 of the rear end 610, and the top 621 of the middle portion 620 are positioned parallel to the ground. In other words, preferably, the top 601 of the front end 600, the top 611 of the rear end 610, and the top 621 of the middle portion 620 are co-planar. More particularly, the top 611 of the rear end 610 (more particularly the top of the lid 613), the top 621 of the middle portion 620 and the top 601 of the front end 600 are substantially level so that no concrete is placed on top of the rear end 610, on top of the middle portion 620 and on top of the front end 600 after positioning the skimmer 100 in the sidewall 120. Rather, users are able to walk on the top 611 of the rear end 610, the top 621 of the middle portion 620 and the top 601 of the front end 600, just as users now walk on the top of the lid 613. (It will be appreciated that concrete is typically poured over the middle portion 620 and front portions 600 of typical prior art skimmers, as shown in
In some embodiments, the throat 196 extends substantially to the top 621 of the middle portion 620. Optionally, the top 611 of the rear end 610, the top 621 of the middle portion 620 and the top 601 of the front end 600, are comprised of plastic. Optionally, the lid 613 is generally circular.
Optionally, the height 607 of the skimmer opening 135 is from about 8 inches to about 14 inches. Optionally, the width 608 of the skimmer opening 135 is between about 3 and about 6 inches. Optionally, the pool skimmer 100 further includes a weir configured to move upwards and downwards in response to changing water levels in the basin 121. In some embodiments, similar to
Terms of degree such as “substantially”, “about” and “approximately” as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. For example, these terms can be construed as including a deviation of at least ±5% of the modified term if this deviation would not negate the meaning of the word it modifies. In addition, use of the singular form of a term embraces the plural.
Having now described the invention in accordance with the requirements of the patent statutes, those skilled in the art will understand how to make changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiments to meet their specific requirements or conditions. Changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention, as defined and limited solely by the following claims.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/US2014/013617 | Jan 2014 | US | national |
This application is a continuation application claiming priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/115,356, filed Jul. 29, 2016, and entitled “Pool Skimmer System”, which is a 371 of PCT/US2014/048930, filed Jul. 30, 2014, and entitled “Pool Skimmer System”, which claims priority to International Patent Application PCT/US2014/013617, filed Jan. 29, 2014 and entitled “Pool Skimmer System”. The contents of each of the aforementioned are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 15115356 | Jul 2016 | US |
| Child | 16046484 | US |
