Improved systems and methods for tank frame connectors

Abstract

Systems and methods for connecting frame members and beams of a water tank are disclosed. The frame members can be configured to connect to a first beam and a second beam via connectors. The connectors may include recesses for fitting into one or more of the first beam, the second beam, and / or the frame members. The connectors may include pins to secure the position of at least one of the first beam, the second beam, and / or the frame members. The connectors may include internal structures, such as integral supports or support protrusions for structural stability. The connectors may include accessory mounting elements. The connectors may include a light source.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to pool structures, including equipment, systems, and methods for installing pool structures. Background Technology

[0002] Above-ground water tanks are constructed from various tank structures. These structures include a tank frame that supports the tank lining and contains water within and / or around the tank, providing support to resist the weight of the water, the lining, and any equipment associated with the maintenance and use of the above-ground water tank. Certain tank structures, such as frame components, can be used to hold other structures in a specific configuration, and those structures may be difficult to assemble while providing the necessary structural support.

[0003] These pool structures can be used to form the framework of above-ground pools. In particular, above-ground pools can benefit from avoiding the costs and effort associated with digging or otherwise excavating space for the pool. Above-ground pools can take advantage of being installed in locations where digging or excavation is infeasible or impossible. The pool framework of above-ground pools is heavy and difficult to transport efficiently. Therefore, it is desirable to have a pool framework that is easy to install, protected from the weight of water and / or other equipment associated with the maintenance and / or use of the pool, and that is efficient and repeatable in installation. It is also desirable to have an aesthetically pleasing above-ground pool that allows for the inclusion of lighting within the frame components. It is also desirable to provide attachment mechanisms for attaching to the frame components for installing pool accessories for various games, coverings, or recreational projects. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to some embodiments consistent with this disclosure, the frame for a water tank can be mounted as a series of beams and generally vertical frame members. According to some embodiments, one or more beams can be configured to connect to one or more generally vertical frame members to form the frame of the water tank. According to some embodiments, the frame members can be configured to connect to a first beam and a second beam via connectors. According to some embodiments, the connector may include recesses for fitting within one or more of the first beam, the second beam, and / or the frame members. According to some embodiments, the connector may include pins to secure the position of at least one of the first beam, the second beam, and / or the frame members.

[0005] According to some embodiments, the pool frame connector may include a first portion and a second portion, the first portion including a support protrusion and the second portion having a support socket, wherein the first portion includes a clip. According to some embodiments, the first portion may be configured to be held against the second portion via the clip, and the support protrusion of the first portion may be configured to fit within the support socket.

[0006] According to some embodiments, the pool frame connector may include a first portion and a second portion, the first portion including a support protrusion, wherein the first portion includes a clip, and the second portion including a recessed portion corresponding to the clip. According to some embodiments, the pool frame connector may include an accessory support extending from the first portion and the second portion, wherein the first portion is held against the second portion via the clip to hold the accessory support.

[0007] According to some embodiments, the pool frame connector may include a first portion, a second portion, and a lamp. The first portion includes a support protrusion and a clip. According to some embodiments, the second portion may include a recessed portion corresponding to the clip, and the second portion may include a portion configured to be translucent. According to some embodiments, the lamp may be connected to an internal portion of at least one of the first or second portions, the internal portion transmitting light through the translucent portion. According to some embodiments, the first portion may be held against the second portion via the clip. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a portion of the pool frame is shown.

[0009] Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of the pool frame connector is shown.

[0010] Figures 3A to 3B An exemplary embodiment of the pool frame connector is shown.

[0011] Figure 4 An exemplary embodiment of the pool frame connector is shown.

[0012] Figure 5 An exemplary embodiment of a portion of the pool frame is shown.

[0013] Figure 6 An exemplary embodiment of a portion of the pool frame is shown.

[0014] Figure 7 An exemplary embodiment of the pool frame connector is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0015] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments, some examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0016] Exemplary disclosed embodiments include apparatus, systems, and methods for a pool frame comprising a pool structure. The pool frame may include a first beam, a second beam, and frame members. The first and second beams may be connected to the frame members via connectors. The connectors may be configured to retain the frame members against the weight of water, the pool liner, and / or equipment used for maintaining or using the pool, relative to the first and second beams. For example, in some embodiments, the pool liner may be mounted within a volume within the pool frame. The liner may include a polymer extending beneath and around a volume of water. The liner may be attached to the frame to contain water. The water may be used for various purposes, including, for example, recreation. The frame may be shaped to contain water within that shape. In some embodiments, the frame may be circular in shape. The disclosed embodiments provide a robust and reproducible installation of a pool frame.

[0017] Although this document describes vertical frame members, consideration is not limited to a variety of frame members with a strictly vertical orientation. For example, frame members may be at an angle to the vertical and connected to beams in various orientations. Consideration may be given to frame members that are triangular. Consideration may include diagonal bracing. Consideration may be given to frame members and / or beams that are circular or elliptical.

[0018] Figure 1 , 5 Figures 6 and 7 show a non-limiting example of a portion of a pool frame consistent with this disclosure. Figure 2 , 3A Non-limiting examples of pool frame connectors are shown in 3B and 4. It should be understood that the described examples and embodiments represent simplified descriptions for ease of understanding the principles and methods of this disclosure.

[0019] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a pool frame 100 is shown. The pool frame 100 may include a frame member 102, a first beam 104, a second beam 106, and a connector 108. The frame member 102 may include a generally vertical frame to transfer a portion of the pool's weight to the ground. The frame member 102 may stand on its own, supported by other frame members, or it may be connected to the floor surface by being buried, bolted to floor connection members, or encased in concrete. The weight of the first beam 104, the second beam 106, and the water-containing pool lining may be transferred to the frame member 102 via the connector 108.

[0020] Additional frame members, beams, and connectors can be used to form the perimeter of the pool. The number of frame members, beams, and connectors can be adjusted to increase or decrease the size of the pool, and the frame members and beams are interchangeable to allow for reproducible installation.

[0021] Figure 2Exemplary embodiments of connector 200 are shown. Certain features of connector 200 are not shown or discussed in these examples, but may be similar to those discussed with respect to other embodiments. Connector 200 may include a first end 202, a second end 204, a third end 206, and a protrusion 208. The first end 202 may be configured to fit to a portion of a beam (e.g., first beam 104) by press-fit, threaded connection, or adhesive connection. The second end 204 may be configured to fit to a portion of another beam (e.g., second beam 106) by press-fit, threaded connection, or adhesive connection. The third end 206 may be configured to fit to a portion of a frame (e.g., frame member 102). Ends 202, 204, and 206 may include recesses for fitting into a mounting frame or beam. The first end 202 may include a first pin 212 for locking into a hole or recess within the beam. The second end 204 may include a second pin 210 for locking into a hole or recess within another beam. The third end 206 may include a third pin 214 for locking into a hole or recess within a frame member. The protrusion 208 may abut against the ends of one or more beams and / or frame members. In some embodiments, the protrusion 208 may be at the same height as the first beam 104, the second beam 106, and / or the frame member 102 to form a substantially continuous surface.

[0022] Figures 3A to 3B An exemplary embodiment of the connector is shown. Figure 3A An exemplary embodiment of connector 300 is shown. Certain features of connector 300 are not shown or discussed in these examples, but these features may be similar to those discussed with respect to other embodiments.

[0023] Connector 300 may include a first portion 302 and a second portion 310. The first portion 302 may include at least one insert, such as insert 308. The at least one insert may be located near the edge of an end (e.g., the first end 202) for easy access and assembly. The at least one insert may include a plurality of inserts near the edge of the first portion 302 to provide a structural connection when the first portion 302 is connected to the second portion 310.

[0024] The second portion 310 may include a socket corresponding to an insert (e.g., insert 308) of the first portion 302. For example, the second portion 310 may include a socket 316 corresponding to insert 308. An insert such as insert 308 and a socket such as socket 316 can be used to fit the first portion 302 to the second portion 310. The connection between such an insert and a socket may be a press-fit connection. For a press-fit connection, one or more recesses may be provided to allow a user to insert a lever tool to disengage the insert and the socket. In some embodiments, the connection between such an insert and a socket may be a pin connection or a clip connection. For a clip connection, one or more holes may allow access to a clip so that the clip can be disengaged.

[0025] The second portion 310 may include at least one support recess corresponding to at least one support protrusion of the first portion 302. For example, the first portion 302 may include at least one support protrusion, such as support protrusion 304 and support protrusion 306, and the at least one support recess may include a corresponding first support recess 312 and second support recess 314. Support protrusions 304, 306 may be fitted against the inner surface of a protrusion (e.g., protrusion 208) to provide structural support to the first portion 302 fitted into the second portion 310. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the protrusion may be curved to fit against the curved surface of the support protrusions 304, 306. One or more of the flat surfaces of the first protrusion 304 and the second protrusion 306 may fit against one or more of the flat surfaces of the support recesses 312, 314.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first portion 302 and the second portion 310 may be configured to form a seal. The seal prevents water from entering the internal portion of the connector. The seal may include adhesives, rubber, tight-fitting components, and / or press-fit. In some embodiments, an internal structure may form a seal (e.g., support protrusions 304, 306 abutting against the inner surface of the second portion 310).

[0027] Figure 3B An exemplary embodiment of connector 320 is shown. Certain features of connector 320 are not shown or discussed in these examples, but these features may be similar to those discussed with respect to other embodiments.

[0028] Connector 320 may include a first portion 322, a second portion 324, and an integral support 326. The integral support 326 may be attached to at least one of the first portion 322 and the second portion 324 by welding, pinning, threading, adhesive bonding, or press-fitting. In some embodiments, the integral support 326 may include metal, wherein the metal is stamped, cast, extruded, and / or welded. In some embodiments, the integral support 326 may include glass-filled nylon.

[0029] The integral support member 326 may be configured to provide structural support. For example, the integral support member 326 may be disposed along a portion of the length and height of the connector 320. In some embodiments, the integral support member 326 may extend at least partially from a first region near a first end (e.g., first end 202) to a second region near a second end (e.g., second end 206). The integral support member 326 may extend substantially from one or more of the first and second ends toward a third region near a third end (e.g., third end 204). The integral support member 326 may be formed in a T-shape. The integral support member is configured to span a portion of the distance between the first and second ends, wherein the integral support member is configured to span a portion of the distance between the third end and the heights of the first and second ends. In some embodiments, the integral support member 326 may be disposed along a first region of a first portion, which abuts against a second region of the second portion when the clip of the first portion is in a recess of the second portion.

[0030] The integral support 326 may be formed from a single piece of material. In some embodiments, the integral support 326 may be constructed from multiple components joined, attached, or mounted together. The integral support 326 may be configured to transfer loads from pool beams (e.g., beams 104, 106) to substantially vertical frame members (e.g., frame member 102).

[0031] In some embodiments, the first portion 322 and the second portion 324 may each include an integral support (e.g., an integral support 326). In some embodiments, when the first portion 322 is fitted against the second portion 324, the integral support of the first portion 322 may be fitted against the integral support of the second portion 324 (e.g., an insert, such as insert 308, is fitted into a socket, such as socket 316). In some embodiments, the integral support of the first portion 322 may be adhesively connected to the integral support of the second portion 324.

[0032] Figure 4 An exemplary embodiment of connector 400 is shown. Certain features of connector 400 are not shown or discussed in these examples, but these features may be similar to those discussed with respect to other embodiments.

[0033] The pool frame 400 may include a first portion 402 and a second portion 404. The first portion 402 and the second portion 404 may rotate about a connection 406 such that an inwardly projected portion of the first portion 402 abuts against an inwardly dispensing portion of the second portion 404. The connection 406 may include a rotatable connection. At least one of the first portion 402 and the second portion 404 may rotate about the connection 406. As an example, the second portion 404 may rotate in a direction R to abut against the first portion 402 for fitting (e.g., an insert such as insert 308 fitting into a socket such as socket 316).

[0034] Figure 5 An exemplary embodiment of the pool frame 500 is shown. Certain features of the pool frame 500 are not shown or discussed in these examples, but these features may be similar to those discussed with respect to other embodiments.

[0035] The pool frame 500 may include frame member 502, first beam 504, second beam 506, and connector 508. Connector 508 may include a first portion 510 and a second portion 512. Connector 508 may include accessory support 514. For example, accessory support 514 may extend upward from the first portion 510 and the second portion 512. In some embodiments, accessory support 514 may extend outward from the first portion 510 and the second portion 512. In some embodiments, accessory support 514 may include a pipe.

[0036] The first portion 510 and the second portion 512 may be configured to abut against each other via a plurality of protrusions, press fits, clips, and / or adhesives. The connector 508 may be connected to the frame member 502 via one or more of a press fit connection, an adhesive connection, or a welded connection. The connector 508 may be connected to the first beam 504 via one or more of a press fit connection, an adhesive connection, or a welded connection. The connector 508 may be connected to the second beam 506 via one or more of a press fit connection, an adhesive connection, or a welded connection. In some embodiments, the second portion 512 may include an accessory support 514. In some embodiments, the accessory support 514 may be fitted within the frame member 502, and the first portion 510 and the second portion 512 may abut against each other around the accessory support 514.

[0037] In some embodiments, the accessory support 514 may be integrally formed with the second portion 512. In some embodiments, the accessory support 514 may be press-fitted into the combination of the first portion 510 and the second portion 512.

[0038] For reference Figure 3BIn the case discussed, where connector 508 may include one or more integral supports (e.g., integral support 326), the integral support may form a recess into which accessory support 514 is assembled.

[0039] The accessory support 514 can be configured to support a portion of the weight of one or more accessories. The accessory support 514, fitted to the connector 508 and the first beam 502, allows the weight of the one or more accessories to be transferred to the ground. In some embodiments, the one or more accessories can be used for recreation. In such embodiments, accessories may include umbrellas, screens, speakers, motion targets, pool tops, mosquito net supports, flashlights, insect repellents, cup holders, tables, or lamps.

[0040] Figure 6 An exemplary embodiment of a portion of the pool frame 600 is shown. Certain features of the pool frame 600 are not shown or discussed in these examples, but may be similar to those discussed with respect to other embodiments.

[0041] The pool frame 600 may include a connector 602. The connector 602 may include a protrusion 610 configured to hold a pool liner 604 in a position. For example, the pool frame 600 may include a plurality of connectors 602 surrounding the shape of an above-ground pool, each of the plurality of connectors including a protrusion for mounting the pool liner 604. The pool liner 604 may include a reinforcement 606 and a hole 608. The protrusion 610 may fit within the hole 608 to hold the pool liner 604. The weight of the pool liner 604 may be at least partially transferred to a frame member (e.g., frame member 502) via the connector 602. In some embodiments, the connector 602 may be configured to maintain a connection between the pool liner 604 and the connector 602. In some embodiments, the connector 602 may include a cap abutting against the protrusion 610 and / or held by the connector 602, wherein the cap is connected by at least one of a welded connection, a threaded connection, a press-fit connection, a clip connection, or a pin connection. In such an embodiment, the cap can hold the pool liner 604 against the connector 602 and / or the protrusion 610.

[0042] In some embodiments, connector 602 may include an accessory mount (e.g., mount 514). In such embodiments, protrusion 610 may be on a first side of the accessory mount and / or another protrusion may be on a second side of the accessory mount. In some embodiments, with protrusion 610 located at the center of connector 602, a pool liner (e.g., pool liner 604) may be configured to be connected around the accessory mount by fasteners such as zipper connections, hooks and loops, or buttons.

[0043] Figure 7An exemplary embodiment of connector 700 is shown. Certain features of connector 700 are not shown or discussed in these examples, but these features may be similar to those discussed with respect to other embodiments.

[0044] Figure 7 The connector 700 may include a first portion 702 and a second portion 704. The second portion 704 may include a portion configured to be translucent. For example, the second portion 704 may include a section configured to be translucent to transmit light into the water in the pool, for example, to illuminate the pool and / or an area above the pool. The first portion and / or the second portion 704 may include translucent plastic. The first portion 702 and / or the second portion 704 may include sections made of opaque plastic to selectively transmit light in one direction. For example, the connector may include one or more opaque protrusions (e.g., protrusions 304, 306) and an opaque integral support (e.g., integral support 326), the translucent second portion, and a light source 706 may be mounted on the integral support and between the protrusions, such that light (e.g.,) is guided into the pool through the integral support and the protrusions.

[0045] In some embodiments, the first portion 702 and the second portion 704 may be configured to form a seal to keep water and / or debris away from the light source 706. In some embodiments, the light source 706 may be waterproof.

[0046] In some embodiments, the pool liner (e.g., pool liner 604) leading to the connector 700 may include a portion configured to be translucent or a portion including holes, allowing light to pass through the pool liner. In some embodiments, the first portion 702 may be configured to block light from extending outward toward the pool. For example, the first portion 702 may include a portion configured to be opaque or translucent. In some embodiments, the first portion 702 may include a section configured to be translucent. For example, the first portion 702 may include a section configured to be translucent and transmit light to the ground outside the pool.

[0047] Connector 700 may include a light source 706. The light source 706 may be connected to an internal portion of connector 700. In embodiments where the light source 706 is connected to the internal portion of connector 700, as shown in reference... Figure 6The protrusions discussed (e.g., protrusion 610), internal structures (e.g., the interior of protrusion 610, protrusion portions 304, 306, structural members within the first or second portion, or integral support 326) and / or caps may each include portions configured to be translucent to transmit light. The light source 706 may be connected to a support (e.g., accessory support 514) or an internal portion of the first or second portion 702 (e.g., the interior of protrusion 610, protrusion portions 304, 306, structural members within the first or second portion, or integral support 326). The light source 706 may include an LED or a series of LEDs. In some embodiments, the light source 706 may include an electric reservoir within connector 700 for powering the light source 706.

[0048] In some embodiments, the light source 706 may be configured to be powered by an energy source external to the connector 706. In some embodiments, the light source 706 may be connected to other components by wires, and the wires may pass through openings in the internal structure across the interior of 700. In some embodiments, the wiring may be sealed where it extends from the connector 706 to, for example, one or more beams and / or frame members, to prevent water and / or debris from entering the interior of the connector 700.

[0049] It should be understood that although certain embodiments have been discussed to facilitate understanding of the various principles and aspects of this disclosure, these embodiments are not described in isolation, and these descriptions are not necessarily mutually exclusive. Therefore, it is conceivable and understood that the features described in the principles of any embodiment may be incorporated into other embodiments.

[0050] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the disclosed pools, pool linings, frame members, and connections. Although exemplary embodiments have been described herein, as will be understood by those skilled in the art based on this disclosure, the scope of the invention includes any and all embodiments having equivalent elements, variations, omissions, combinations, modifications, and / or alterations (e.g., aspects of various embodiments). Limitations in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based on the language used in the claims and are not limited to the examples described in this specification or during the application process, which are to be interpreted as non-exclusive. Therefore, it is intended that the specification and examples be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of the invention are indicated by the full scope of the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A water tank frame connector, comprising: The first part includes support protrusions and clips; The second part, configured to connect to the first part, includes a support socket and a recess; and An integral support member is provided along the first region of the first part, and when the clip is assembled into the recess, the first region of the first part abuts against the second region of the second part. The first part is held against the second part by being fitted into the recess by the clip, and the support protrusion of the first part is fitted into the support socket of the second part to abut against the inner surface of the second part.

2. The pool frame connector according to claim 1, further comprising a first end, the first end being configured to be assembled within the beam, wherein, The first end includes a pin for holding the beam in place.

3. The pool frame connector according to claim 1 further includes a protruding portion between the first end and the second end, wherein, The protruding portion forms a substantially continuous surface with the first beam attached to the first end and the second beam attached to the second end.

4. The pool frame connector of claim 1 further includes an integral support member configured to span a portion of the distance between the first end and the second end, wherein, The integral support is configured to span a portion of the distance between the height of the third end and the height of the first and second ends.

5. The pool frame connector according to claim 1, further comprising a lamp, wherein, The first part is substantially opaque, and the second part is configured to allow light to pass through.

6. The pool frame connector of claim 1 further includes a protrusion for mounting the pool lining.

7. The pool frame connector of claim 1 further includes an accessory support configured to extend outward from the first portion and the second portion.

8. The pool frame connector according to claim 1, wherein, The first part and the second part form a seal.

9. A pool frame connector, comprising: The first part includes clips; The second part, configured to connect to the first part, includes a recessed portion corresponding to the clip; and An accessory support member is configured to extend outward from the first and second portions. The first part is held against the second part by being fitted into the recessed part by the clip, and the accessory support is held between the first part and the second part.

10. The pool frame connector of claim 9, further comprising a first end configured to be fitted within the beam, wherein, The first end includes a pin for holding the beam in place.

11. The pool frame connector of claim 9, further comprising a protrusion between the first end and the second end, wherein, The protruding portion forms a substantially continuous surface with the first beam attached to the first end and the second beam attached to the second end.

12. The pool frame connector of claim 9, further comprising an integral support member configured to span a portion of the distance between the first end and the second end, wherein, The integral support is configured to span a portion of the distance between the height of the third end and the height of the first and second ends, and wherein the integral support is fitted around the accessory support.

13. The pool frame connector according to claim 9, further comprising a lamp, wherein, The first part is substantially opaque, and the second part is configured to allow light to pass through.

14. The pool frame connector of claim 9, further comprising a protrusion for mounting the pool lining.

15. A pool frame connector, comprising: The first part includes clips; The second part includes a recess corresponding to the clip, wherein the second part includes an outer surface area configured to be translucent; and A light source, connected to an internal portion of at least one of the first or second portions, wherein the internal portion transmits light through the outer surface region. The first part is held against the second part by being fitted into the recess by the clip.

16. The pool frame connector of claim 15, further comprising an integral support member configured to span a portion of the distance between the first end and the second end, wherein, The integral support is configured to span a portion of the distance between the height of the third end and the height of the first and second ends, and wherein the integral support is fitted around the accessory support.

17. The pool frame connector according to claim 16, wherein, The overall support structure is essentially opaque.

18. The pool frame connector according to claim 15, wherein, The first portion includes a support protrusion configured to fit within a support socket of the second portion, wherein the support socket is substantially opaque to guide light from the light source.

19. The pool frame connector according to claim 15, wherein, The light from the light source is directed to the ground.

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