U.S. patent application number 15/282818 was filed with the patent office on 2017-03-30 for above ground pool.
The applicant listed for this patent is Bestway Inflatables & Material Corp.. Invention is credited to Feng Liu.
Application Number | 20170089085 15/282818 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58401285 |
Filed Date | 2017-03-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170089085 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Liu; Feng |
March 30, 2017 |
ABOVE GROUND POOL
Abstract
An above ground pool is provided. The above ground pool includes
a support frame and a pool liner. The pool liner is affixed to and
supported by the support frame to form a body for holding water
within the pool. The support frame includes a series of horizontal
support members and vertical support members, each having an
elliptical cross-section. The symmetric shape of the cross-section
of the elliptical tubes reduces the difficulties inherent in
machining tube bends, simplifies the manufacturing of the tubes,
effectively improves the support frame's stability, and facilitates
quality control. The horizontal support members and vertical
support members are coupled together by one or more connectors to
form an enclosed or ring structure.
Inventors: |
Liu; Feng; (Shanghai,
CN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Bestway Inflatables & Material Corp. |
Shanghai |
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CN |
|
|
Family ID: |
58401285 |
Appl. No.: |
15/282818 |
Filed: |
September 30, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14671845 |
Mar 27, 2015 |
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15282818 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04H 2004/0068 20130101;
E04H 4/0056 20130101 |
International
Class: |
E04H 4/00 20060101
E04H004/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jan 29, 2015 |
CN |
CN201520065126.7 |
Claims
1. An above ground pool comprising: a plurality of horizontal
support members, wherein the horizontal support members are
connected to form a surrounding top frame; a plurality of vertical
support members, wherein each of the vertical support member has a
major middle part and two end parts, the major middle part has an
external peripheral elliptical cross-section structure, one of the
two end parts of the vertical member is connected to the
surrounding top frame to support the surrounding top frame at a
predetermined height; and a pool liner supported by the surrounding
top frame to form a body for holding water.
2. The above pool of claim 1, wherein the major part and the two
end parts of the vertical support member are formed as an unity
body with plastic material.
3. The above pool of claim 1, wherein the major part and the two
end parts of the vertical support member are formed as an unity
body with metal material.
4. The above pool of claim 1, wherein the vertical support member
is a tube having a hollow core, the hollow core having a shape
similar to the external peripheral elliptical cross-section
structure.
5. The above pool of claim 4, wherein the maximum thickness of the
tube is smaller than 5% of the maximum width of the external
peripheral elliptical cross-section structure.
6. The above pool of claim 4, wherein an inner support structure is
formed inside the tube.
7. The above pool of claim 1, wherein the external peripheral
elliptical cross-section structure having a top border and a bottom
border, the top border and the bottom border are symmetric, and the
top border and the bottom border have straight line portions and
curve line portions together to define the shape of the external
peripheral elliptical cross-section structure.
8. The above pool of claim 7, wherein the straight line portion of
the top border is parallel to the straight line portion of the
bottom border, and the top border and the bottom border each has
two curve portions symmetric to each other.
9. The above pool of claim 1, wherein the external peripheral
elliptical cross-section structure having a top border and a bottom
border, the top border has a first curve portion and the bottom
border has a second curve portion, the first curve portion has a
larger curve angle than the second curve portion.
10. The above pool of claim 1, wherein each of the horizontal
support member has an external elliptical cross-section shape.
11. The above pool of claim 1, wherein each of the horizontal
support member has a circular cross-section shape.
12. The above pool of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of
T-shaped connectors for coupling the horizontal support members and
the vertical support members together.
13. The above pool of claim 1, wherein the surrounding top frame
has a ladder positioning structure to mount a ladder for users to
go inside the above pool from outside.
14. The above pool of claim 1, further comprising an U-shaped
support member connected to the surrounding top frame.
15. The above pool of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of
support bases coupled to a bottom end of the vertical support
members.
16. The above pool of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of
tensioning devices coupled to an outer surface of the body of the
pool and a tensioning belt, wherein each tensioning device is
coupled to the outer surface of the body in-between two neighboring
vertical support members, the tensioning belt being alternately
weaved about the outer surface of the body through the tensioning
devices and over the vertical support members to retain the
vertical support members close to the body.
17. The above pool of claim 16, wherein the tensioning belt is
arranged about the body of the pool at a height equal to
approximately one-third of the height of the body of the pool.
18. The above pool of claim 1, wherein one of the end parts of the
vertical support member has a different peripheral shape from the
middle part of the vertical support member for connecting to the
surrounding top frame.
19. The above pool of claim 1, wherein one end part of one of the
vertical support member is connected to another vertical support
member.
20. The above pool of claim 1, further having a covering border
mounted on top of the surrounding top frame.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Application No.
CN201520065126.7, entitled "ABOVE GROUND POOL," filed on Jan. 29,
2015, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein
in its entirety. This application is a continuation-in-part
application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/671,845, filed
on Mar. 27, 2015.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] The present invention relates to pools, and more
specifically, to an above ground pool.
[0004] 2. Background
[0005] An above ground pool is a facility installed on a piece of
vacant land for recreational usage. For example, it can be
installed on the yard of a house or a piece of vacant land
elsewhere for adults and children to play together. Due to its ease
of installation and usage, above ground pools have become very
popular.
[0006] Currently, above ground pools can be mainly categorized into
two types: frame pools and inflatable pools. There are a variety of
structures and forms for frame pools. A round frame pool is the
most typical above ground pool, which mainly includes a series of
horizontal support members, vertical support members and a pool
liner. In these types of above ground pools, the horizontal support
members are connected in sequence via connecting members to form a
circular structure. The vertical support members support the
circular structure so as to form a support frame, and then the pool
liner is affixed to support frame to form a pool body. The pool
body forms an above ground pool or basin for holding water. When a
frame pool of this structure is fully filled with water, the water
can exert a significant amount of pressure on the pool body, thus
the support frame must be sturdy enough to withstand extremely high
pressure forces.
[0007] However, most horizontal support members, vertical support
members, and connecting members used in the support frames of
traditional round frame pools comprise tubes having a D-shaped
cross-section. In practical applications, these "D-shaped tubes"
have a number of disadvantages. For example, such tubes are
difficult to manufacture and control their manufacturing process
due to the asymmetric shape of the tubes' cross-section. These
D-shaped tubes typically have a structure without a narrowed mouth
at a tube end, so the clearance fit between the tube end and a
corresponding connector is relatively large, resulting in poor
overall stability. Since the shape of the D-shaped tube is
asymmetric, it is more difficult to cut to form arcuate corners.
Also, the manufacturing cost is fairly costly. All of these factors
result in great difficulty in the machining of connector
elbows.
[0008] In addition, the connection between corresponding D-shaped
tubes is achieved by engagement at single point, such that the
connection has a relatively poor firmness and strength. Therefore,
support frames formed by the use of D-shaped tubes mentioned above
have a lower bearing capacity, thus compromising the safety and
performance of the above ground pool.
[0009] Overall, the bearing performance of the support frame of an
above ground pool may have a direct impact on the stability of the
entire above ground pool. Due to the factors discussed above,
conventional above ground pools are prone to collapse and cause
injury accidents. Thus, a need therefore exists for an above ground
pool having a sturdy support frame that is easy to assemble.
SUMMARY
[0010] An above ground pool according to the present invention is
provided in order to solve the technical problems present in
support frames of conventional above ground pools, namely, the poor
bearing capacity of existing above ground pool support frames. One
example of an above ground pool of the present invention includes a
support frame and a pool liner. The support frame includes a series
of horizontal support members and vertical support members. The
horizontal support members and the vertical support members each
include an elongated tube with an elliptical cross-section.
[0011] The pool liner is affixed to the support frame. The pool
liner is supported by the support frame to form a body for holding
water within the pool.
[0012] In some implementations, the support frame further includes
a plurality of T-shaped connectors for coupling the horizontal
support members and the vertical support members together. Each
T-shaped connector includes a horizontal tubular member and a
verticatubular member transverse to the horizontal tubular member.
The horizontal tubular member and the vertical tubular member each
has an elliptical cross-section.
[0013] In some implementations, the T-shaped connectors couple two
corresponding horizontal support members together in sequence to
form a substantially circular ring-shaped structure. In some
implementations, the ring-shaped structure may be oval in shape. In
some implementations, the vertical tubular member is coupled to a
corresponding vertical support member.
[0014] The shape of the pool may be circular, rectangular,
polygonal, elliptical or any other shape. For circular shape, such
pool may preferably have a 5 feet to 30 feet for diameter, 20
inches to 60 inches height. For elliptical shape, such pool may
have 10 feet to 30 for long edge, 5 feet to 20 feet for short edge,
and 20 inches to 50 inches for height. However, such parameters are
not used as limitations for this invention
[0015] In some implementations, a first end of the horizontal
tubular member is detachably connected to an end of a first
corresponding horizontal support member and a second end of the
horizontal tubular member is detachably connected to an end of a
second corresponding horizontal support member. The first
corresponding horizontal support member and the second
corresponding horizontal support member may be connected to the
first end of the horizontal tubular member and the second end of
the horizontal tubular member by a retainer located proximal the
respective points of attachment.
[0016] In some implementations, the retainer is a retaining pin
configured to pass through a first set of positioning holes and a
corresponding second set of positioning holes. The first set of
positioning holes is formed at the first end of the horizontal
tubular member and the second end of the horizontal tubular member.
The corresponding second set of positioning holes is formed at ends
of the corresponding horizontal support members. The retaining pin
is configured to lock the horizontal tubular member and the
corresponding horizontal support members together.
[0017] In some implementations, the vertical tubular member is
detachably connected to a corresponding vertical support member by
a spring-loaded latch coupled to an end of the vertical support
member. The latch is configured to engage an aperture formed at an
open end of the vertical tubular member.
[0018] In some implementations, the spring-loaded latch includes a
pin boss that houses a spring element and detent pin. The pin boss
is mounted inside one end of the vertical support member and
configured such that the detent pin is outwardly biased by the
spring element to engage the aperture. The detent pin is configured
to lock the vertical tubular member and the vertical support member
together.
[0019] In some implementations, the above ground pool further
includes a plurality of tensioning devices coupled to an outer
surface of the body of the pool and a tensioning belt. Each
tensioning device is coupled to the outer surface of the body
in-between two neighboring vertical support members. The tensioning
belt may be alternately weaved about the outer surface of the body
through the tensioning devices and over the vertical support
members to retain the vertical support members close to the body.
In some implementations, the tensioning belt is arranged about the
body of the pool at a height equal to approximately one-third of
the height of the body of the pool. In some implementations, the
above ground pool further includes a plurality of support bases
coupled to a bottom end of the vertical support members.
[0020] A second example of an above ground pool of the present
invention is further provided. The above ground pool includes a
support frame and a pool liner. According to this example, the
support frame includes a series of horizontal support members,
connectors, and U-shaped support members. The horizontal support
members and connectors may each have a circular cross-section. The
U-shaped support members may have an elliptical cross-section.
[0021] The pool liner is affixed to the support frame. The pool
liner is supported by the support frame to form a body for holding
water within the pool.
[0022] In some implementations, the horizontal support members are
coupled together in series by the connectors to form a ring-shaped
structure. In some implementations, the ring-shaped structure forms
a rectangle, square, or other polygon shape. In some
implementations, the connectors are each L-shaped.
[0023] In some implementations, the above ground pool further
includes couplings coupled to free ends of the U-shaped support
members. The couplings detachably connect the U-shaped support
members to the ring-shaped structure to support the ring-shaped
structure in an oblique fashion.
[0024] In some implementations, each free end of the U-shaped
support member includes a reduced diameter portion. The reduced
diameter portion includes a first set of latching holes spaced
apart from a second set of latching holes.
[0025] In some implementations, the coupling further includes a
flexible V-shaped pin and a hollow casing. The flexible V-shaped
pin includes a first pair of studs spaced apart from a second pair
of studs. The hollow casing includes a pair of orifices. The
flexible pin is disposed within the reduced diameter portion of
U-shaped support members such that the first pair of studs extends
through the second set of latching holes to engage the pair of
orifices, and the second pair of studs extends through the first
set of latching holes.
[0026] In some implementations, the casing is a tube having an oval
cross-section corresponding with the cross-section of the U-shaped
support members.
[0027] In some implementations, the above ground pool further
includes a plurality of support belts coupled to and arranged about
a bottom portion of the body of the pool. Each support belt is
coupled between the bottom portion of the body of the pool and a
horizontal portion of a corresponding U-shaped support member.
[0028] In some implementations, each support belt includes a sleeve
for passing the horizontal portion of the U-shaped support member
therethrough.
[0029] A first example of a support frame for an above ground pool
of the present invention is provided. The support frame includes a
plurality of horizontal support members and a plurality of vertical
support members, where a pool liner may be affixed to and supported
by the support frame to form a body for holding water within the
pool.
[0030] The horizontal support members may include an elongated tube
with an elliptical cross-section. The vertical support members may
be coupled to the horizontal support members. The vertical support
members may include an elongated tube with an elliptical
cross-section.
[0031] In some implementations, the support frame further includes
a plurality of T-shaped connectors for coupling the horizontal
support members and the vertical support members together. The
T-shaped connector includes a horizontal tubular member and a
vertical tubular member transverse to the horizontal tubular
member. The horizontal tubular member and the vertical tubular
member each has an elliptical cross-section.
[0032] In some implementations, the T-shaped connectors couple two
corresponding horizontal support members together in sequence to
form a substantially circular ring-shaped structure. In some
implementations, the ring-shaped structure may be oval in
shape.
[0033] In some implementations, the vertical tubular member is
coupled to a corresponding vertical support member. In some
implementations, a first end of the horizontal tubular member is
detachably connected to an end of a first corresponding horizontal
support member and a second end of the horizontal tubular member is
detachably connected to an end of a second corresponding horizontal
support member. The first corresponding horizontal support member
and the second corresponding horizontal support member are
connected to the first end of the horizontal tubular member and the
second end of the horizontal tubular member by a retainer located
proximal the respective points of attachment.
[0034] In some implementations, the retainer is a retaining pin
configured to pass through a first set of positioning holes formed
at the first end of the horizontal tubular member and the second
end of the horizontal tubular member, and a corresponding second
set of positioning holes formed at ends of the corresponding
horizontal support members. The retaining pin is configured to lock
the horizontal tubular member and the corresponding horizontal
support members together.
[0035] In some implementations, the vertical tubular member is
detachably connected to a corresponding vertical support member by
a spring-loaded latch coupled to an end of the vertical support
member. The latch is configured to engage an aperture formed at an
open end of the vertical tubular member.
[0036] In some implementations, the spring-loaded latch includes a
pin boss that houses a spring element and detent pin. The pin boss
is mounted inside one end of the vertical support member and
configured such that the detent pin is outwardly biased by the
spring element to engage the aperture. The detent pin is configured
to lock the vertical tubular member and the vertical support member
together.
[0037] In some implementations, the support frame further includes
a plurality of tensioning devices coupled to an outer surface of
the body of the pool and a tensioning belt. Each tensioning device
may be coupled to the outer surface of the body in-between two
neighboring vertical support members The tensioning belt may be
alternately weaved about the outer surface of the body through the
tensioning devices and over the vertical support members to retain
the vertical support members close to the body.
[0038] In some implementations, the tensioning belt is arranged
about the body of the pool at a height equal to approximately
one-third of the height of the body of the pool. In some
implementations, the above ground pool further includes a plurality
of support bases coupled to a bottom end of the vertical support
members.
[0039] A second example of a support frame for an above ground pool
of the present invention is further provided. The support frame
includes a plurality of horizontal support members, a plurality of
connectors, and a plurality of U-shaped support members, where a
pool liner may be affixed to and supported by the support frame to
form a body for holding water within the pool.
[0040] The plurality horizontal support members each include an
elongated tube with a circular cross-section. Each of the
connectors that couples corresponding horizontal support members
together comprises an L-shapes tube with a circular
cross-section.
[0041] Each of U-shaped support members comprise a U-shaped tube
with an elliptical cross-section. In some implementations, the
horizontal support members are coupled together in series by the
connectors to form a ring-shaped structure. In some
implementations, the ring-shaped structure forms a rectangle,
square or other polygon shape.
[0042] In some implementations, the above ground pool further
includes couplings coupled to free ends of the U-shaped support
members. The couplings detachably connect the U-shaped support
members to the ring-shaped structure to support the ring structure
in an oblique fashion.
[0043] In some implementations, each free end of the U-shaped
support member has a reduced diameter portion, the reduced diameter
portion having a first set of latching holes spaced apart from a
second set of latching holes.
[0044] In some implementations, the coupling further includes a
flexible V-shaped pin including a first pair of studs spaced apart
from a second pair of studs and a hollow casing. The hollow casing
includes a pair of orifices. The flexible pin is disposed within
the reduced diameter portion of U-shaped support members such that
the first pair of studs extends through the second set of latching
holes to engage the pair of orifices, and the second pair of studs
extends through the first set of latching holes. In some
implementations, the casing includes a tube with an oval
cross-section corresponding with the cross-section of the U-shaped
support members.
[0045] In some implementations, the support frame further includes
a plurality of support belts coupled to and arranged about a bottom
portion of the body of the pool. Each support belt may be coupled
between the bottom portion of the body of the pool and a horizontal
portion of a corresponding U-shaped support member. In some
implementations, each support belt includes a sleeve for passing
the horizontal portion of the U-shaped support member
therethrough.
[0046] Advantageously, support frames of above ground pools
according to the present invention are at least partially composed
of tubes with an elliptical cross-section. The symmetric shape of
the cross-section reduces the difficulty in machining a tube bend,
lowers the complexity in manufacturing the tubes, effectively
improves the stability, and facilitates quality control. Meanwhile,
a slight clearance fit between the tube end of the elliptical tubes
and the connector may be achieved. This enables the support frame
to withstand large mechanical stresses and provide stability and
enhanced structural support. In addition, a bolt connection is
utilized between the tube end of the elliptical tubes and the
connector. Such bolt connection is secure and provides greater
strength. Therefore, support frames formed by elliptical tubes
provide better bearing performance, thereby improving the stability
of the entire above ground pool and providing an excellent safety
performance.
[0047] Other devices, apparatus, systems, methods, features and
advantages of the disclosure will be or will become apparent to one
with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and
detailed description. It is intended that all such additional
systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this
description, and be protected by the accompanying claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0048] The above-mentioned and other features, properties and
advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from
the following description of embodiments with reference to the
accompany drawings, in which:
[0049] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating one example of an
implementation of a support frame of an above ground pool according
to the teachings of the present invention.
[0050] FIG. 2 is a front view of the support frame illustrated in
FIG. 1.
[0051] FIG. 3 is a top view of the support frame illustrated in
FIG. 1.
[0052] FIG. 4 is a partial exploded view of the support frame of
FIG. 1, illustrating how corresponding horizontal support members
are coupled with a vertical support member by a T-shaped
connector.
[0053] FIG. 5 is another partial exploded view of the support frame
of FIG. 1, illustrating how corresponding horizontal support
members are coupled with a vertical support member by a T-shaped
connector.
[0054] FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the support
frame of FIG. 1, illustrating how a horizontal support member is
coupled to the T-shaped connector.
[0055] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a spring-loaded latch for
connecting a vertical support member and a T-shaped connector in
the support frame of FIG. 1.
[0056] FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the spring-loaded latch
illustrated in FIG. 7.
[0057] FIG. 9 is a side view of the spring-loaded latch illustrated
in FIG. 7.
[0058] FIG. 10 is a front view of the spring-loaded latch
illustrated in FIG. 7.
[0059] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the spring-loaded
latch illustrated in FIG. 7.
[0060] FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating an above ground
pool incorporating the support frame illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0061] FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating a second example
of an implementation of a support frame of an above ground pool
according to the teachings of the present invention.
[0062] FIG. 14 is a top view of the support frame illustrated in
FIG. 13.
[0063] FIG. 15 is a front view of the support frame illustrated in
FIG. 13.
[0064] FIG. 16 is a side view of the support frame illustrated in
FIG. 13.
[0065] FIG. 17 is a partial exploded view of the support frame of
FIG. 13, illustrating how corresponding horizontal support members
are coupled with the U-shaped support members.
[0066] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a horizontal support member
of the support frame illustrated in FIG. 13.
[0067] FIG. 19 is a side view of the horizontal support member
illustrated in FIG. 18.
[0068] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a U-shaped support member
of the support frame illustrated in FIG. 13.
[0069] FIG. 21 is a front view of the U-Shaped support member
illustrated in FIG. 20.
[0070] FIG. 22 is a partial cross-sectional view of the support
frame of FIG. 13 illustrating how the U-shaped support members are
coupled to the horizontal support members.
[0071] FIG. 23 is a partial cross-sectional view of the support
frame of FIG. 13 illustrating how the neighboring horizontal
support members are coupled together.
[0072] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a positioning member of the
support frame illustrated in FIG. 13.
[0073] FIG. 25 is a front view of the positioning member
illustrated in FIG. 24.
[0074] FIG. 26 is a top view of the positioning member illustrated
in FIG. 24.
[0075] FIG. 27 is a side view of the positioning member illustrated
in FIG. 24.
[0076] FIG. 28 is a perspective view illustrating an above ground
pool incorporating the support frame illustrated in FIG. 13.
[0077] FIG. 29 is a perspective view illustrating a third example
of an implementation of a support frame of an above ground pool
according to the teachings of the present invention.
[0078] FIG. 30 is an enlarged view of the portion A in FIG. 29.
[0079] FIG. 31 is a front view of the support frame illustrated in
FIG. 29.
[0080] FIG. 32 is a side view of the support frame illustrated in
FIG. 29.
[0081] FIG. 33 is a top view of the support frame illustrated in
FIG. 29.
[0082] FIG. 34 is a perspective view illustrating an above ground
pool incorporating the support frame illustrated in FIG. 29.
[0083] FIG. 35 is a top view illustrating a fourth example of an
implementation of a support frame of an above ground pool according
to the teachings of the present invention.
[0084] FIG. 36A illustrates a cross-section view of an example of a
vertical support member according to an implementation of the
present invention.
[0085] FIG. 36B illustrates a side view of the vertical support
member in FIG. 36A.
[0086] FIG. 36C illustrates a perspective view of the vertical
support member in FIG. 36A.
[0087] FIG. 37A illustrates a cross-section view of a second
example of a vertical support member according to an implementation
of the present invention.
[0088] FIG. 37B illustrates a side view of the vertical support
member in FIG. 37A.
[0089] FIG. 37C illustrates a perspective view of the vertical
support member in FIG. 37A.
[0090] FIG. 38A illustrates a cross-section view of a third example
of a vertical support member according to an implementation of the
present invention.
[0091] FIG. 38B illustrates a side view of the vertical support
member in FIG. 36A.
[0092] FIG. 38C illustrates a perspective view of the vertical
support member in FIG. 36A.
[0093] FIG. 39A illustrates one example for connecting the vertical
support members.
[0094] FIG. 39B illustrates a second example for connecting
vertical support members.
[0095] FIG. 40 is a cross-section view illustrating one example of
a covering border mounted onto of the horizontal support
members.
[0096] FIG. 41 illustrates cross-section view of a vertical support
member with a cross support structure in its hollow part.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0097] The present invention will be further described below in
conjunction with particular example implementations and the
accompanying drawings. Further details are provided in the
following description in order for the present invention to be
fully understood. However, the present invention can be implemented
in various ways other than those described herein. A person skilled
in the art can make similar analogies and modifications according
to practical applications without departing from the spirit of the
present invention, and therefore the contents of the particular
examples herein should not be construed as limiting to the scope of
the present invention.
[0098] FIGS. 1-41 illustrate various implementations of a support
frame for an above ground pool according to the teachings of the
present invention. Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, FIG. 1 is a
perspective view illustrating one example of an implementation of a
support frame 10 of an above ground pool according to the teachings
of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a front view of the support
frame 10. FIG. 3 is a top view of the support frame 10.
[0099] As shown, the support frame 10 includes a plurality of
horizontal support members 11 and a plurality of vertical support
members 12. The horizontal support members 11 and the vertical
support members 12 each include an elongated tubular member with an
elliptical cross-section. The vertical support members 12 are
coupled to the horizontal support members 11. The support frame 10
may further include a plurality of T-shaped connectors 13 that are
mainly used to couple the horizontal support members 11 and the
vertical support members 12 together.
[0100] Referring now to FIGS. 4-6, FIG. 4 is a partial exploded
view of the support frame 10 illustrating how corresponding
horizontal support members 11 are coupled with a vertical support
member 12 by the T-shaped connector 13. FIG. 5 is another partial
exploded view of the support frame 10 illustrating how
corresponding horizontal support members 11 are coupled with a
vertical support member 12 by a T-shaped connector 13. FIG. 6 is a
partial cross-sectional view of the support frame 10 illustrating
how a horizontal support member 11 is coupled to the T-shaped
connector 13.
[0101] As shown, the T-shaped connector 13 includes a horizontal
tubular member 130 and a vertical tubular member 131. The vertical
tubular member 131 is transversely arranged on the horizontal
tubular member 130. In particular, the vertical tubular member 131
is transversely perpendicular to the horizontal tubular member 130.
The horizontal tubular member 130 and the vertical tubular member
131 each have an elliptical cross-section.
[0102] The T-shaped connectors 13 couple two neighboring horizontal
support members 11 together in sequence by means of the horizontal
tubular member 130. In this way, the horizontal support members 11
may be coupled together to form a substantially circular ring
structure (as best shown in FIG. 3).
[0103] Turning back to FIGS. 4 and 5, a first end 132 of the
horizontal tubular member 130 of each T-shaped connector 13 may be
detachably coupled to an end 112 of a first corresponding
horizontal support member 110. A second end 133 of the horizontal
tubular member 130 may, likewise, be detachably coupled to an end
113 of a second corresponding horizontal support member 111. The
first corresponding horizontal support member 110 and the second
corresponding horizontal support member 111 may respectively be
coupled to the first end 132 and the second end 133 of the
horizontal tubular member 130 by a retainer, as discussed in
further detail below. In order to ensure the stability and firmness
of the coupling, the retainer should be located proximal the
respective points of attachment between the horizontal support
members 110, 111 and the horizontal tube member 130.
[0104] In some implementations, the retainer may include a
retaining pin 14. In other implementations, the retainer may
include claps, threaded fasteners, or other suitable attachment
means. As shown in FIG. 4-6, a first set of positioning holes 134
is provided on the first end 132 and the second end 133 of the
horizontal tubular member 130. A corresponding second set of
positioning holes 114 is provided on the end 112 of the first
horizontal support member 110 and the end 113 of the second
horizontal support member 111. When the first end 132 and the
second end 133 of the horizontal tubular member 130 of the T-shaped
connector 13 are respectively butt-jointed to the end 112 of the
first horizontal support member 110 and the end 113 of the second
horizontal support member 111, the first set of positioning holes
134 is correspondingly aligned with the second set of positioning
holes 114. In this alignment, the retaining pin 14 may be passed
through the first set of positioning holes 134 and the
corresponding second set of positioning holes 114 (as shown in FIG.
6), so that the horizontal tubular member 130 of the T-shaped
connector 13 and the corresponding horizontal support members
(i.e., the first horizontal support member 110 and the second
horizontal support member 111) are, for example, snap-locked
together. In some implementations, a bearing pad 140 may be
provided between the retaining pin 14 and the horizontal tubular
member 130 to reduce the wear between the retaining pin 14 and the
horizontal tubular member 130 and increase robustness
therebetween.
[0105] Similarly, the vertical tubular member 131 of the T-shaped
connector 13 may be coupled to a corresponding vertical support
member 12. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the vertical tubular member
131 of each T-shaped connector 13 may be detachably connected to
the corresponding vertical support member 12 by a spring-loaded
latch 15. During connection, the spring-loaded latch 15 is coupled
to an end 121 of the vertical support member 12. An aperture 122 is
provided at an open end of the end 121. The spring-loaded latch 15
is disposed in the end 121 of the vertical tubular member 131 and
engages and is locked with the aperture 122.
[0106] Referring to FIGS. 7-11, FIG. 7 is a perspective view of one
example of a spring-loaded latch 15 for coupling the vertical
support member 12 with a T-shaped connector 13. FIG. 8 is a bottom
view of the spring-loaded latch 15. FIG. 9 is a side view of the
spring-loaded latch 15. FIG. 10 is a front view of the
spring-loaded latch 15. FIG. 11 is exploded perspective view of the
spring-loaded latch 15.
[0107] As shown, the spring-loaded latch 15 includes a pin boss
150. The pin boss 150 houses a spring element 151 and a detent pin
152. The pin boss 150 includes a hollow circular annular outer wall
153 with an outwardly protruding, semi-circular accommodating
cavity 154 coupled to an open end of the annular outer wall 153.
The spring element 151 may be mounted within the accommodating
cavity 154 such that one end of the detent pin 152 passes through
the interior of the accommodating cavity 154 and bears against the
spring element 151, while the other end is outwardly biased, such
that a portion of the detent pin may extend out from the
accommodating cavity 154 (as best shown in FIGS. 7 and 8).
[0108] The annular outer wall 153 may be shaped to match or
otherwise complement the cross-section of the end 121 of the
vertical support member 12 (as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5). When the
spring-loaded latch 15 is fitted into the end 121 of the vertical
support member 12, the annular outer wall 153 of the pin boss 150
is embedded in the interior of the end 121 of the vertical support
member 12 such that the detent pin 152 snap-fitted into the
aperture 122 on the end 121 of the vertical support member 12 under
the elastic force of the spring element 151.
[0109] Turning back to FIG. 5, an aperture 135 may be formed at an
open end of the vertical tubular member 131 of the T-shaped
connector 13. The vertical tubular member 131 is butt jointed to
the end 121 of the vertical support member 12. The aperture 135 on
the vertical tubular member 131 may be aligned with the aperture
122 on the vertical support member 12, so that the detent pin 152
passes through the apertures 122 and 135 to, for example, snap-lock
the T-shaped connector 13 to the vertical support member 12.
[0110] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of one example of an above
ground pool 100 incorporating the support frame 10. As shown in
FIG. 12, the above ground pool 100 includes the support frame 10
and a pool liner 16. The pool liner 16 may be affixed to and
supported by the support frame 10 to form a pool body for holding
water. In some implementations, the upper part of the pool liner 16
may be sheathed on the horizontal support members 11, and the
periphery of the pool liner 16 may lie against the vertical support
members 12.
[0111] In order to further secure the poor liner 16 to the above
ground pool 100, the above ground pool 100 may further include a
plurality of tensioning devices 17 and a tensioning belt 18. The
tensioning devices 17 include one or more straps or loops coupled
to an outer surface of the pool body. Each tensioning device 17 may
be coupled to the outer surface of the body in-between two
neighboring vertical support members 12. The tensioning belt 18 may
be alternately weaved about the outer surface of the body through
the tensioning devices 17 and over the vertical support members 12
to retain the vertical support members 12 close to the pool body,
thereby increasing the tensioning force of the pool body. In some
implementations, the tensioning belt 18 may be arranged about the
pool body at a height equal to approximately one-third of the
height of the pool body. The tensioning belt 18 serves to reinforce
the lower structure of the pool body to impart a greater bearing
capacity. In some implementations, the above ground pool 100 may
further include a plurality of support bases 120 coupled to a
bottom end of the vertical support members 12 for improving the
overall robustness of the above ground pool 100.
[0112] Referring to FIGS. 13-16, FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a
second example of a support frame 20 of an above ground pool
according to the teachings of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a
top view of the support frame 20. FIG. 15 is a front view of the
support frame 20. FIG. 16 is a side view of the support frame
20.
[0113] As shown, the support frame 20 includes a plurality of
horizontal support members 21, a plurality of connectors 22, and a
plurality of U-shaped support members 23. Each horizontal support
member 21 has a circular cross-section. The connectors 22 are used
for to couple corresponding horizontal support members 21 together,
and each connector 22 has a circular cross-section. Free ends of
the U-shaped support members 23 are connected to the horizontal
support members 21 and each U-shaped support member 23 has an
elliptical cross-section. The horizontal support members 21 are
coupled together in series by the plurality of connectors 22 to
form a ring structure. In the present implementation, the
connectors 22 may be L-shaped such that the ring structure forms a
rectangle. In other implementations, the connectors 22 may have
other shapes, such as V-shape, such that the ring structure may for
a polygon or other geometric shape.
[0114] FIG. 17 is a partial exploded view of the support frame 20,
illustrating how corresponding horizontal support members 21 are
coupled with the U-shaped support members 23 and L-shaped
connectors 22. As shown, when the ring structure forms a rectangle
or polygon, the sides of the rectangle or polygon are formed by the
horizontal support members 21. Every two or corresponding
horizontal support members 21 are connected in series successively.
The corner parts of the sides of the rectangle are formed by the
L-shaped connectors 22 connected between corresponding horizontal
support members 21.
[0115] Each horizontal support member 21 is further connected to a
corresponding U-shaped support member 23. The horizontal support
members 21 may be affixed to each other via a positioning member
25. The horizontal support member 21 and the connector 22 may
likewise be affixed to each other via a positioning member 25.
However, a coupling 24 may be required to fixedly connect the
U-shaped support member 23 and the horizontal support member 21 to
each other.
[0116] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the horizontal support
member 21, and FIG. 19 is a front view of the horizontal support
member 21. As shown in these figures, one end 211 of the horizontal
support member 21 includes a reduced diametrical portion and a
first aperture 212 in the reduced portion. A second aperture 215 is
formed at an opposite end 213 of the horizontal support member 21.
One or more connection opening 214 are formed along a rod surface
of the horizontal support member 21 for receiving free ends of a
corresponding U-shaped support member 23.
[0117] Referring now to FIGS. 20-22, FIG. 20 is a perspective view
of the U-shaped support member 23. FIG. 21 is a front view of the
U-shaped support member 23. As shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, the free
end of the U-shaped support members 23 include a reduced diameter
portion 231 having a first set of latching holes 232 spaced apart
from a second set of latching holes 233.
[0118] FIG. 22 is a partial cross-sectional view of the support
frame 20, illustrating how the free ends of U-shaped support
members 23 are connected to the horizontal support members 21. As
shown in FIG. 22, in conjunction with FIG. 17, the coupling 24 is
coupled in the reduced diameter portion 231 of the free ends of the
U-shaped support members 23, such that the U-shaped support member
23 is detachably connected to the ring structure via the coupling
24. The U-shaped support members 23 support the ring structure in
an oblique fashion; for example, the U-shaped support member 23 may
be inclined outwardly along the ring structure by 30.degree. or any
other suitable angle.
[0119] The coupling 24 may include a flexible V-shaped pin 241 and
a hollow casing 242.
[0120] The flexible V-shaped pin 241 may include a first pair of
studs 243 spaced apart from a second pair of studs 244.
[0121] The hollow casing 242 includes a pair of orifices 245 and
the hollow casing 242 is sheathed outside the reduced diameter
portion 231 of the U-shaped support member 23 such that the first
set of latching holes 232 and the second set of latching holes 233
are respectively aligned with the orifices 245. The flexible
V-shaped pin 241 is positioned within the reduced diameter portion
231 of the U-shaped support member 23 such that the first pair of
studs 243 extends through the second set of latching holes 233 to
engage the corresponding orifices 245. Likewise, the second pair of
studs 244 extends through the first set of latching holes 232. In
this way, the U-shaped support member 23 and the horizontal support
member 21 may be, for example, snap-locked together via the
couplings 24.
[0122] The hollow casing 242 includes a tube having an oval
cross-section corresponding with the cross-section of the U-shaped
support members 23. As such, the connection between the U-shaped
support members 23 and the horizontal support members 21 may be
more robust.
[0123] FIG. 23 is a partial cross-sectional view of the support
frame 20, illustrating how neighboring horizontal support members
21 are coupled together a positioning member 25. As shown in FIG.
23, in conjunction with FIGS. 17-19, the sides of the rectangle or
polygon ring structure are formed by the horizontal support members
21. Every two or corresponding horizontal support members 21 are
connected in series successively via the positioning members 25.
The positioning member 25 is sheathed on the reduced diameter
portion of end 211 of one of the horizontal support members 21, and
the other end 213 of the other neighboring horizontal support
member 21 is sheathed outside the positioning member 25, such that
the two neighboring horizontal support members 21 are affixed to
each other.
[0124] Turing now to the positioning member 25, FIG. 24 is a bottom
perspective view of the positioning member 25. FIG. 25 is a front
view of the positioning member 25. FIG. 26 is a top view of the
positioning member 25. FIG. 27 is a side view of the positioning
member 25.
[0125] As shown in FIGS. 24-27, in conjunction with FIG. 17-19, the
positioning member 25 includes a hollow sheathing member 251
comprising a tube with an oval cross-section corresponding to the
cross-section of the reduced diameter portion of the horizontal
support member 21. One end of the positioning member 25 is provided
with an annular stud 252. The cross-section of the annular stud 252
corresponds to the cross-section of the horizontal support members
21. The opposite end of the positioning member 25 is provided with
a locking buckle 253. When two neighboring horizontal support
members 21 are connected, one end of the positioning member 25 is
sheathed on the reduced diameter portion of one end 211 of one of
the horizontal support members 21, with the other end 213 of the
other neighboring horizontal support member 21 is sheathed outside
the positioning member 25. In this way, the locking buckle 253
passes through the second aperture 215 of the other end 213 of the
horizontal support member 21 so that the locking of two neighboring
horizontal support members 21 can be achieved.
[0126] Likewise, the L-shaped connector 22 and corresponding
horizontal support members 21 may also be fixedly locked with each
other via the positioning member 25. For example, one end of the
positioning member 25 may be sheathed at one end of the L-shaped
connector 22, while the opposite end 213 of the horizontal support
member 21 may be sheathed on the positioning member 25, such that
the locking buckle 253 passes through the second aperture 215 of
the opposite end 213 of the horizontal support member 21 and the
locking of the horizontal support member 21 and the L-shaped
connector 22 can be achieved (not shown in the Figures).
[0127] FIG. 28 is a perspective view illustrating one example of an
above ground pool 200 incorporating the support frame 20. As shown,
the above ground pool 200 includes the support frame 20 (as shown
in FIG. 13) and a pool liner 26. The pool liner 26 may be affixed
to and supported by the support frame 20 to form a pool body for
holding water. In some implementations, the upper part of the pool
liner 26 may be sheathed on the horizontal support members 21 such
that the periphery of the pool liner 26 lies against the U-shaped
support members 23.
[0128] In order to further secure the poor liner 26, the above
ground pool 200 may further include a plurality of support belts
27. The support belts 27 may be coupled to and arranged about a
bottom portion of the body of the pool. Each support belt 27 may be
coupled between the bottom portion of the body of the pool and a
horizontal portion of a corresponding U-shaped support member 23.
In particular, in order to increase the strength of support of the
support belts 27, each support belt 27 may include a sleeve 271
where the horizontal portion of the U-shaped support member 23
passes through the sleeve 271 of the support belt 27 to tension the
support belt 27.
[0129] Turning to FIGS. 29-34, FIG. 29 is a perspective view
illustrating a third example of an implementation of a support
frame 30 an above ground pool according to the teachings of the
present invention. FIG. 30 is an enlarged view of the portion A in
FIG. 29. FIG. 31 is a front view of the support frame 30. FIG. 32
is a side view of the support frame 30.
[0130] FIG. 33 is a top view of the support frame 30.
[0131] As shown in FIGS. 29-33, the support frame 30 may include a
plurality of horizontal support members 31, a plurality of vertical
support members 32, and a plurality of U-shaped support members 34.
The horizontal support members 31 and the vertical support members
32 may each have an elliptical cross-section, and the vertical
support members 32 may be coupled to the horizontal support members
31.
[0132] The support frame 30 may further include a plurality of
T-shaped connectors 33 which are used to couple the horizontal
support members 31 and the vertical support members 32 together. As
best shown in FIG. 30, the T-shaped connectors 33 may include a
horizontal tubular member 330 and a vertical tubular member 331,
where the vertical tubular member 331 is transversely arranged on
the horizontal tubular member 330. In particular, the vertical
tubular member 331 is transverse and perpendicular to the
horizontal tubular member 330. Moreover, the horizontal tubular
member 330 and the vertical tubular member 331 may each have an
elliptical cross-section.
[0133] The T-shaped connectors 33 may be used to couple two
neighboring horizontal support members 31 together in sequence via
the horizontal tubular members 330. At the same time, at least some
of the neighboring horizontal support members 31 may be connected
in series via the positioning members 35. In this way, the T-shaped
connectors 33 and the positioning members 35 together couple the
plurality of horizontal support members 31 with one another to form
a substantially elliptical ring structure.
[0134] As further shown in FIG. 30, opposite ends 332 of the
horizontal tubular member 330 of each T-shaped connector 33 may be
detachably connected to ends of the corresponding horizontal
support members 31. The corresponding horizontal support members 31
may be respectively connected to opposite ends 332 of the
horizontal tubular member 330 by a retainer. To ensure the
stability and firmness of the coupling, the retainer may be located
proximal the respective points of attachment between the horizontal
tubular member 330 and the T-shaped connector 33.
[0135] In like manner, the vertical tubular member 331 of the
T-shaped connector 33 may be coupled to a corresponding vertical
support member 32. The vertical tubular member 331 of each T-shaped
connector 33 may be detachably connected to the corresponding
vertical support member 32 by a spring-loaded latch.
[0136] It should be noted that the structure of the T-shaped
connector 33 in the present example is the same as that of the
T-shaped connector 13 in the example above. In particular, the
manner in which the T-shaped connectors 33 are coupled to the
horizontal support members 31 and the vertical support members 32
is the same as that described the examples above. The structure of
the positioning member 35 in the present example is also the same
as that of positioning member 25 in the example above, and the
manner in which the positioning member 35 is connected to the
horizontal support member 31 is the same as that of the first
example above, the detailed description of which is omitted for
brevity.
[0137] The U-shaped support members 34 may be detachably connected
to the ring structure via the couplings. The U-shaped support
members 34 support the ring structure in an oblique fashion. For
example, a U-shaped support member 34 may be inclined outwardly
along the ring structure by angle of 30.degree.. It is further
noted that free ends of the U-shaped support members 34 are coupled
to the corresponding horizontal support
[0138] members 31, and each U-shaped support member 34 has an
elliptical cross-section. The structure of the U-shaped support
member 34 in the present example is the same as that of the
U-shaped support member 23 in the second example, and the manner in
which the U-shaped support member 34 is coupled to the horizontal
support member 31 is the same as that described in the second
example, the detailed description of which is omitted for
brevity.
[0139] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of illustrating one example of
an above ground pool 300 incorporating the support frame 30. As
shown, the above ground pool 300 includes the support frame 30 (as
shown in FIG. 29) and a pool liner 36, where the pool liner 36 may
be affixed to and supported by the support frame 30 to form a pool
body for holding water. In some implementations, the upper part of
the pool liner 36 may be sheathed on the horizontal support members
31 such that the periphery of the pool liner 36 lies against the
vertical support members 32.
[0140] In order to further secure the poor liner 36, the above
ground pool 300 may further include a plurality of tensioning
devices 37 and a tensioning belt 38. The tensioning devices 37 may
be coupled to an outer surface of the pool body. In some
implementations, each tensioning device 37 may be coupled to the
outer surface of the body in-between two neighboring vertical
support members 32. The tensioning belt 38 may be alternately
weaved about the outer surface of the body through the tensioning
devices 37 and over the vertical support members 32 to retain the
vertical support members 32 close to the pool body, thereby
increasing the tensioning force of the pool body. In some
implementations, the tensioning belt 38 may be arranged about the
pool body at a height equal to approximately one-third of the
height of the pool body to effectively reinforce the lower
structure of the pool body to impart a greater bearing capacity. In
some implementations, the above ground pool 300 may further include
a plurality of support bases 320, where the support bases 320 are
coupled to a bottom end of the vertical support members 32 for
improving the overall robustness of the above ground pool 300.
[0141] The above ground pool 300 may further include a plurality of
support belts 39 that may be coupled to and arranged about a bottom
portion of the body of the pool. Each support belt 39 may be
coupled between the bottom portion of the body of the pool and a
horizontal portion of a corresponding U-shaped support member 34.
In particular, in order to increase the strength of support of the
support belts 39, each support belt 39 may include a sleeve 391
adapted to allow the horizontal portion of the U-shaped support
member 34 to pass through the sleeve 391 of the support belt 39 to
tension the support belt 39.
[0142] FIG. 35 is a top view illustrating a fourth example of an
implementation of a support frame 40 of an above ground pool
according to the teachings of the present invention. As shown, the
support frame 40 is substantially the same as that of the support
frame 30 of the previous example, except that support frame 40
includes a plurality of horizontal support members 41, a plurality
of arcuate support members 42, a plurality of vertical support
members (not shown), and a plurality of U-shaped support members
44. The horizontal support members 41, the arcuate support members
42, the U-shaped support members 44 and the vertical support
members may each have an elliptical cross-section. The vertical
support members may be coupled to the plurality of arcuate support
members 42 in an upright or vertical fashion. The U-shaped support
members 44 may be coupled to the horizontal support members 41 in
an oblique fashion.
[0143] The support frame 40 may further include a plurality of
T-shaped connectors 43, each comprising a horizontal tubular member
and a vertical tubular member. The vertical tubular member is
transversely arranged on the horizontal tubular member. In some
implementations, the vertical tubular member is transversely
perpendicular to the horizontal tubular member.
[0144] The horizontal tubular member and the vertical tubular
member may each have an elliptical cross-section. The connectors 43
couple two neighboring arcuate support members 42 together in
sequence via the horizontal tubular members. At the same time, the
horizontal support members 41 are connected in series via the
positioning members 45. In this way, the T-shaped connectors 43 and
positioning members 45 couple the horizontal support members 41 and
the arcuate support members 42 with one another to form an
elliptical ring structure.
[0145] It should be noted that the structure of the T-shaped
connector 43 in the present example is the same as that of the
T-shaped connectors described in the previous examples, and the
T-shaped connector 43 is coupled to the arcuate support member 42
and the vertical support member in the same manner as that
described in the first example above. The structure of the
positioning member 45 in the present example is the same as that of
the positioning member 25 in the second example above. The
positioning member 45 is, further, connected to the horizontal
support member 41 in the same manner as that described in the first
example above.
[0146] Further, the structure of the U-shaped support member 44 in
the present example is the same as that of the U-shaped support
member 23 in the second example. The U-shaped support member 44 may
be coupled to the horizontal support member 41 in the manner as
that described in the second example above, the detailed
description of which is omitted for brevity.
[0147] In summary, by improving the structure of the support frame,
a more robust above ground pool structure with a high bearing
capacity may be achieved according to the teachings the present
invention. The support frame is at least partially composed of
tubes having an elliptical cross-section. Due to the symmetric
shape of the cross-section of the elliptical tubes, difficulties in
the manufacture of the tubes are reduced, thus effectively
improving the support frame's stability. A slight clearance fit
between the ends of the elliptical tubes and each connector enables
the support frame to withstand large mechanical stresses and
contributes to its enhanced stability. In addition, a tailored bolt
connection is provided between the ends of the elliptical tubes and
each connector, which is more secure and provides greater
structural strength. Therefore, above ground pools according to the
teachings of the present invention provide better bearing
performance and the overall stability and safety performance than
existing above ground pool designs.
[0148] The various components of the support frame of the present
invention may be constructed from molded or machined stainless
steel, aluminum, metal, iron, plastic, fiberglass, composite,
polycarbonate, alloy, or other suitable materials. The pool liner,
tensioning devices, tensioning belt, and support belt of the
present invention may be constructed of flexible reinforced
polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU) cloth, plastic, canvas,
tactical nylon webbing, or any other durable material. Above ground
pools of the present invention may further incorporate other
components not shown or described herein, such as water pumps,
valves, piping, motors, or other pool components and accessories
known in the art.
[0149] Referring now to FIGS. 36A, 36B, and 36C, FIG. 36A is a
cross-section view of a vertical support member of the support
frame of an above pool in accordance with the present invention.
FIG. 36B is a side view of the vertical support member shown in
FIG. 36A. FIG. 36C is a perspective view of the vertical support
member shown in FIG, 36A. These figures illustrate the elliptical
cross-section of the vertical support member.
[0150] As shown in FIGS. 36A, 36B and 36C, the vertical support
member includes a tube 3601 with a hollow core 3602. The vertical
support member has a top border 36011 and a bottom border 36012.
The top border has a first curved portion, i.e. the external
peripheral curve line of the tube 3601 at the top border 36011
portion. The bottom border 36012 has a second curved portion, i.e.
the external peripheral curve line of the tube 3601 at the top
border 36011 portion. In this example, the first curved portion has
a larger curve angle than the second curved portion. Although the
top border 36011 is not symmetric to the bottom border 36012, the
shape may still be recognized having elliptical features. It is
therefore illustrated via the drawings that the vertical support
member is one type of `elliptical cross-section`, which does not
have to be under strict definition of ellipse but just have some
features of a geographic ellipse. In other words, though the tube
36011 does not have a top-to-bottom symmetric shape, it is still
classified as one elliptical cross-section, which is also called an
external peripheral elliptical cross-section structure in this
application.
[0151] Turning now to FIGS. 37A, 37B and 37C, FIG. 37A is a
cross-section view of a second example of a vertical support member
of the support frame of an above pool in accordance with the
present invention. FIG. 37B is a side view of the vertical support
member in FIG. 37A. FIG. 37C is a perspective view of the vertical
support member in FIG. 37A.
[0152] In this example, the vertical support member 3702 also has a
hollow core 3702. Compared with the example in FIGS. 37A, 37B and
37C, the hollow core 3702 has a shape different than the external
peripheral cross-section outline of the vertical element 3701. In
other words, the hollow core 3702 of an elliptical cross-section
vertical element may have a different shape from its external
peripheral cross-section outline.
[0153] Referring to FIG. 38A, 38B and 38C, FIG. 38A is a
cross-section view of a second example of a vertical support member
of the support frame of an above pool in accordance with the
present invention. FIG. 38B is a side view of the vertical support
member in FIG. 36A. FIG. 38C is a perspective view of the vertical
support member in FIG. 36A.
[0154] In FIGS. 38A, 38B and 38C, the vertical support member 3801
with the external peripheral elliptical cross-section structure
having a top border and a bottom border. The top border and the
bottom border are symmetric. In addition, the top border and the
bottom border have straight line portions and curve line portions
together to define the shape of the external peripheral elliptical
cross-section structure.
[0155] It is also illustrated in FIG. 38A, 38B and 38C that the
straight line portion of the top border is parallel to the straight
line portion of the bottom border, and the top border and the
bottom border each has two curve portions symmetric to each
other.
[0156] Via FIG. 36A, 36B, 36C, 37A, 37B, 37C, 38A, 38B and 38C, it
is known that the vertical support member of the support frame may
comprise various elliptical cross-sections. Under test, such
elliptical cross-section structure may bring higher reliability
with less material. This may reduce cost or make a stronger
structure of a pool. For example, it may decrease the necessary
number of vertical support member for a fixed width pool with such
method. On the other hand, each vertical support member may be made
with less material while keeping the same reliability of the
pool.
[0157] Such vertical support member may be divided into two end
parts and one middle part. In one design, the middle part and the
two end parts of the vertical support member are formed as a unity
body with plastic material. Alternatively, the middle part and the
two end parts of the vertical support member are formed as a unity
body with metal material.
[0158] In addition, as illustrated in previous examples, the
vertical support member may be a tube having a hollow core. The
hollow core may have a shape similar to the external peripheral
elliptical cross-section structure, as illustrated in FIG. 36A and
FIG. 38A. Alternatively, the hollow core may have different shape
from the external peripheral elliptical cross-section
structure.
[0159] In addition, the maximum thickness of the tube may be
smaller than 5% of the maximum width of the external peripheral
elliptical cross-section structure. For example, the vertical
support member may be a tube of 25 inches to 50 inches height,
while having thickness less than 1 mm. The maximum width means the
largest width of the peripheral cross-section outline of the
vertical support member. Such parameter is tested to be able to
support a normal pool for human to use therein, e.g. a pool with a
diameter of 3 meters. Please be noted that a larger thickness is
not excluded from the invention scope.
[0160] To further make the vertical support member stronger, an
inner support structure may be formed inside the tube. For example,
FIG. 41 illustrates a cross-section view of a vertical support
member. In FIG. 41, a cross inner structure 4102 in disposed inside
the hollow core of the vertical support member 4101. Please be
noted that other shapes of inner structure may also be applied.
[0161] As mentioned in previous examples, there are several
horizontal support members forming a surrounding top frames. In
some design, the horizontal support members may have an external
elliptical cross-section shape. In other design, the horizontal
support members may have a circular elliptical cross-section
shape.
[0162] A number of T-shaped connectors, as illustrated above, may
be used for coupling the horizontal support members and the
vertical support members together.
[0163] Besides, the surrounding top frame may have a ladder
positioning structure to mount a ladder for users to go inside the
above pool from outside. Usually, such pool may have a diameter
larger than 2 meters, and a ladder is usually necessary to help
people to get in and out of the pool. With a positioning structure,
like a hook, a block, or other detachable connecting structure, a
ladder may be more reliable and stable, preventing unnecessary
accident.
[0164] Besides, one of the end parts of the vertical support member
may have a different peripheral shape from the middle part of the
vertical support member for connecting to the surrounding top
frame. In other words, the vertical support member may be adjusted
to have a more narrow or wider width, or have a corresponding shape
to be clicked or hooked to form the pool in some
implementations.
[0165] In another example, one end part of one of the vertical
support member is connected to another vertical support member.
FIG. 39A illustrates an alternative way for connecting the bottom
portion of the vertical support members. For example, the vertical
support members 39021, 39022 and 39023 are connected in their
bottom portions and so are other vertical support members.
[0166] FIG. 39B illustrates a similar pool support structure as
FIG. 39A. In contrast, an additional bottom base 39024 is connected
to the bottom portions of the vertical support members of the
pool.
[0167] FIG. 40 is a cross-section view of another example of the
support frame of an above ground pool in accordance with the
present invention. In FIG. 40, a covering border 4001 is mounted on
top of the surrounding top frame, which is composed of horizontal
support members 4003 as described above. In this embodiment, the
pool liner 4002 is clipped between the covering border 4001 and the
horizontal support member 4003, but this is only an example, not to
limit the inventive scope.
[0168] In general, terms such as "coupled to," and "configured for
coupling to," and "secured to," and "configured for securing to"
and "in communication with" (for example, a first component is
"coupled to" or "is configured for coupling to" or is "configured
for securing to" or is "in communication with" a second component)
are used herein to indicate a structural, functional, mechanical,
electrical, signal, optical, magnetic, electromagnetic, ionic or
fluidic relationship between two or more components or elements. As
such, the fact that one component is said to be in communication
with a second component is not intended to exclude the possibility
that additional components may be present between, and/or
operatively associated or engaged with, the first and second
components.
[0169] While the detailed embodiments of the present invention have
been described, a person skilled in the art should understand that
these are merely illustrative, and that the scope of the present
invention is defined by the appended claims. Various alterations or
modifications can be made by a person skilled in the art to these
embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present
invention. However, these alterations and modifications shall all
fall within the scope of the present invention.
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