Folding spa cover

Abstract

A retractable, folding, insulating spa cover assembly with interconnected, plural, elongated, generally rectangular, panel members, the panel members being connected to each other along their longitudinal edges or sides by hinge members that act as gaskets to close the entire gap between adjoining panel members, wherein the hinge members alternate between the upper and lower surface of the panel members, such that the panel members are foldable into a vertical stack. Track members may be provided on opposing upper walls of the spa, with pins or roller members disposed on each end of the panel members such that the panel members slide laterally within the track members. The track members may each have a horizontal leg and a vertical leg, such the panel members remain in the track members when vertically stacked as well. In an alternative embodiment, vertically oriented roller conveyor members may be positioned beside the spa.

Description

[0001]This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 962,324, filed Jul. 27, 2007, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]This invention relates generally to the field of removable covers that prevent water and debris from entering spa tubs, hot tubs or the like, and which insulate to prevent heat loss when the tubs are not in use, and more particularly relate to such covers that are provided in multiple parts.[0003]Spa tubs, hot tubs or the like, to be referred to herein collectively as spas, are popular in home, hotel and rehabilitation settings and are used for recreation, relaxation and therapy. The spas typically contain a quantity of heated water that is recycled through water jets, and may vary in shape from generally rectangular to generally round. The spas are usually sized to accommodate four to six people at one time, although smaller and larger spas are also available. Of...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0014]whereby said roller members reduce friction and drag when the panel members are pulled from the vertical stack back onto the upper surface of said spa.

Problems solved by technology

Though not excessively heavy, they are of significant weight, and the large size of the cover panels makes them unwieldy in handling, such that removal and replacement by children or older adults may be difficult.

In addition, the large size of the panel members makes it difficult to store them unobtrusively when the spa is in use.

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