Improved safety flap for the pool of a swimming pool

Abstract

A safety cover for a pool, particularly a swimming pool, comprises a curtain and a winding mast (51) for the curtain. The winding mast (51) has an active surface (53), generally cylindrical, around which at least one end section of the curtain is wound. The cover (1) further comprises at least one spacer arrangement (43) interposed between the winding mast (51) and the curtain at the point where the latter is wound. The spacer arrangement (43) is configured to keep a second section of the curtain, adjacent to the end section, away from the active surface (53) of the winding mast (51).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a safety cover for a basin, in particular the basin of a swimming pool, and more particularly a private swimming pool.

[0002] Private swimming pools almost always include pool safety equipment designed to prevent accidents, particularly drownings. Safety regulations are strict. Generally, private pools are equipped with at least one of the following safety devices: a cover designed to cover most of the water's surface, a barrier preventing access to the pool, an immersion alarm that is triggered if someone falls into the pool, or a perimeter alarm that is triggered when someone approaches the pool, and a pool enclosure that is only accessible when someone enters the pool.

[0003] Safety covers include, among other things, pool covers. A pool cover typically consists of a floating panel designed to cover the pool. This panel is technically referred to as a "deck" or "curtain." This deck, whose general shape corresponds to the pool, is made up of individual slats, designed to float on the water's surface and joined together in a hinged fashion. An example of such a cover, comprising hollow slats, is described in EP 1 233 125 A1. Another example of such a cover, comprising solid slats, is disclosed in WO 2007 / 112821 A1.

[0004] Generally, the cover also includes a mechanical device that allows the curtain to be deployed over and retracted from the pool, specifically by rolling and unrolling. This is sometimes referred to as a "roller" in technical terms. The roller comprises a long, profiled piece, called a "mast" in technical terms, which is mounted for rotation on a frame or similar structure. It also typically includes a motor drive capable of rotating the winding mast relative to the frame. The roller is usually positioned near one edge of the pool, the proximal edge, at least when deploying or retracting the curtain. The roller is then positioned so that its mast extends along the proximal edge of the pool.

[0005] The roller is connected to the curtain, usually near one of its end slats.

[0006] A winding mast has a generally cylindrical active surface, around which the elementary slats adjacent to the end and corresponding to at least one end section of the curtain are wound. The subsequent elementary slats, corresponding to an adjacent section of the curtain, are wound onto the slats of the end section, and so on until the curtain is completely wound onto the mast.

[0007] Such a cover is generally designed to have at least one safety position, in which the cover is capable of preventing any immersion, whether intentional or accidental, of a child, at least until a certain age (typically five years old). In this safety position, the cover is most often deployed on the surface of the pool and attached to it, generally near the proximal edge of the pool and the opposite edge, the distal edge.

[0008] To attach the apron to the pelvis, one or more fastening devices are usually used, at least one part of which is fixed to the pelvis, near the distal or proximal edge, and another part mounted on the apron, near one end of the latter opposite the edge in question, these parts being able to engage each other in a restraining position: the front end of the apron is held to the distal edge of the pelvis, the rear end to the proximal edge.

[0009] We know of pool covers whose curtain has, at least at one end, at least one slat hinged to the rest of the curtain and formed from a profile whose thickness is significantly greater than the thickness of most of the profiles of the other slats that make up the curtain. This is the case, for example, when it is necessary to reinforce this end slat so that, in the event of a fall, the end of the curtain does not move away from the edge of the pool. It can also be the case when it is necessary to integrate, within this end slat, the embedded part of the locking devices, particularly automatic locking devices. It is also the case, as in FR 2 997 982 A1, when the slats of an end section of the curtain are intended to form a walking surface.

[0010] The Plaintiff observed that when one or more of these blades, which are thicker than the blades of the rest of the curtain, wrap around the active surface of the mast, an imbalance is generated, which impairs the proper functioning of the winder. The end section of the curtain has an excess thickness, which shifts the axis of inertia of the wound portion of the curtain from the axis of rotation of the mast. This shift can further increase as the winding progresses.

[0011] The resulting imbalance causes a torque that is sometimes resisting and sometimes driving on the winder motor, to the point of causing abnormal operating noise and reducing the motor's lifespan.

[0012] In addition to this imbalance, the presence of one or more thicker blades in the end section of the deck causes an irregular wrapping of the deck around the mast, which is accompanied, among other things, by an aesthetic inconvenience.

[0013] According to the Applicant's findings, the existence of an imbalance on the wound portion of the curtain is not limited to the presence of one or more thicker slats. In some shutters, the curtain is divided into a primary and a secondary section. A connecting assembly, through which the curtain is linked to the roller, is attached to both the primary and secondary sections, near their opposite ends. In shutters of this type, the secondary section winds onto the active surface of the mast, folding under part of the primary section. This generally results in an imbalance caused by a localized excess thickness on the roller mast, where the slats of the secondary section lie under slats of the primary section, and an uneven winding of the curtain.

[0014] Furthermore, in some shutters, this secondary section of the curtain may have one or more slats that are thicker than the slats in the main section. This exacerbates the imbalance and unevenness of the rolling mechanism.

[0015] The Applicant sought to improve the situation, and in particular to reduce the imbalance of the deck when the latter is wound up.

[0016] A safety cover is proposed for a pool, particularly a swimming pool, comprising a curtain and a winding mast for the curtain. The winding mast has an active surface, generally cylindrical, around which at least one end section of the curtain is wound. The cover also includes at least one spacer arrangement that is inserted between the winding mast and the curtain at the point where the latter is wound. The spacer arrangement is designed to keep a second section of the curtain, adjacent to the end section, away from the active surface of the winding mast.

[0017] The end section winds onto the active surface of the winding mast. Essentially, there is nothing between this end section and the active surface of the winding mast. The second section winds, at least partially, onto the spacer assembly sandwiched between the active surface of the mast and the curtain. Between the active surface and at least part of the second section, there is the spacer assembly, which compensates, where necessary, for any difference in thickness with the winding of the end section.

[0018] The proposed design reduces the imbalance of the curtain during its winding. Furthermore, the first winding of the curtain is performed with a nearly constant radius.

[0019] Optional features of the invention, which are complementary or substitute, are listed below: The strut arrangement comprises one or more elementary struts, and these elementary struts are interposed between the winding mast and the second section of the deck over an area of ​​the active surface of the mast opposite the end section of the deck; the strut arrangement comprises a set of elementary struts, and these elementary struts are distributed along the active surface and / or over an angular portion of this surface; at least some of the elementary struts of said set are distributed in one or more alignments, and each alignment extends along an axial direction of the active surface; the alignments are distributed substantially equally angularly over a portion of the active surface; the elementary struts of two adjacent alignments are offset from each other along the axial direction of the active surface;The strut arrangement comprises at least one generally curved surface, at least in part, and this surface comes into contact with the active surface of the mast or the second section of the deck; the second section of the deck comprises a plurality of blades hinged to one another and the strut arrangement comprises one or more elementary struts, each of which is interposed between a respective blade of the second section and the active surface of the mast; the elementary struts are interposed between the active surface of the mast and respective blades of the second section, these respective blades being separated from one another by at least one blade of the second section which is opposite the active surface of the mast; the strut arrangement is integral with at least one of the active surface and the second section of the deck; the strut arrangement is at least partially integral with the winding mast;The strut arrangement is at least partially formed as a single unit with the winding mast; at least part of the strut arrangement is integral with the second section; the strut arrangement comprises a set of elementary struts and these elementary struts are distributed into groups, each group comprising elementary struts distributed over an angular portion of the active surface, the different groups being distributed along the active surface; the strut arrangement comprises one or more elementary struts, each elementary strut having at least one base portion through which the elementary strut is connected to the second section of the deck.

[0020] We also propose a pool deck comprising an end section and a second section adjacent to the end section. The pool deck includes at least one strut assembly attached to the second section.

[0021] A pool cover is also proposed, comprising an end section designed to wind onto the active surface of a winding mast and a second section adjacent to the end section. The pool cover includes at least one spacer assembly, which is inserted between the winding mast and the cover at the point where the mast winds. The spacer assembly is integral with the second section and is designed to keep the second section of the cover away from the active surface.

[0022] We also propose a pool deck comprising a plurality of blades articulated to each other, in which some of these blades are equipped with elementary spacers.

[0023] A winding mast for a pool cover is also proposed, comprising a generally cylindrical active surface against which an end section of the cover is designed to wind. The winding mast further includes at least one spacer arrangement intended to be inserted between the active surface and the cover so as to keep a second section of the cover adjacent to the end section away from the active surface and the winding of the cover.

[0024] Finally, a spacer-based arrangement is proposed for a pool cover, comprising a body designed to fit between a generally cylindrical active surface of a roller mast and a curtain including an end section adapted to wind around the roller mast in contact with the active surface. The body is arranged so as to keep a second section of the curtain, adjacent to the end section, away from the active surface, at the point where the curtain winds.

[0025] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description below and the accompanying drawings, in which: there figure 1 represents a perspective view of a swimming pool equipped with a safety cover; the figure 2 represents a cross-sectional view of the basin of the figure 1 ; there figure 3 represents a cross-sectional view of the flap of the figure 1 with part of her apron wrapped around a mast; the figure 4 represents a cross-sectional view of a shutter according to the invention, with part of its curtain wound around a mast; the figure 5 represents a perspective view of a cross-section of the flap of the figure 4 ; there figure 6 is analogous to the figure 4 except that the apron is not shown; the figure 7 is analogous to the figure 5 except that the shutter curtain is unrolled; the figure 8 represents a detail of the apron of the figure 7 ; there figure 9 is analogous to the figure 4 and represents a variant embodiment of the flap in this figure; the figure 10 is analogous to the figure 7 and represents the aspect of the figure 9 ; there figure 11 represents a detail of the panel of figures 9 And 10 ; there figure 12 is analogous to the figure 4 and represents yet another variant of the construction of the flap of this figure; the figure 13 is analogous to the figure 4 and represents another variant of the construction of the flap in this figure; the figure 14 represents a perspective view of a spacer in its unfolded state according to one embodiment of the invention; the figure 15 represents a perspective view of the spacer of the figure 14 in its folded state; the figure 16 represents, in perspective view, the spacer of the figures 14 et 15 mounted on a winding mast; the figure 17 represents a perspective view of a roller mast for a shutter equipped with a spacer according to another embodiment of the invention; the figure 18 represents, in perspective view, the spacer of the figure 17 ; there figure 19 represents a perspective view of a winding mast for a shutter according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0026] The drawings and description below contain, for the most part, elements of a definite nature. They can therefore not only serve to better explain the present invention, but also contribute to its definition, if necessary.

[0027] The figures below represent embodiments and are not necessarily to scale. The dimensions of the parts shown may vary depending on the different pool cover configurations. For example, the diameter of a roller mast is generally between 13 cm and 28 cm.

[0028] We are referring to figures 1 et 2 .

[0029] This figure shows a basin 3, for example of a private swimming pool, filled with water or similar, with edges that form the outline of the basin 3. Here, the basin 3 has a generally rectangular outline.

[0030] Pool 3 is equipped with a safety cover 1. This cover 1 includes a panel 2, shown here in its deployed state, which is configured to cover the surface of pool 3 from edge to edge, floating. The panel 2 has a shape that closely matches that of pool 3. For example, the panel 2 is typically rectangular here.

[0031] The deck 2 is designed to be wound in a specific direction, represented here by arrow 21. When the deck 2 has an elongated shape, this winding direction 21 generally corresponds to the longitudinal direction of the deck 2. This is the case here, where the deck 2 typically has a rectangular shape. Alternatively, the deck 2 can be designed so that its winding direction 21 corresponds to a direction perpendicular to its longitudinal direction, or transverse direction.

[0032] The shutter 1 also includes a winder-type device, adapted to the apron 2 and operable so as to remove the apron 2 from the basin 3 by winding and to deploy the apron 2 on this basin 3 by unwinding.

[0033] The winder 5 typically comprises a winding mast 51, also called a drum in the technical field, mounted on a frame (not shown), which rotates about an axis 52, generally corresponding to the central axis of the winding mast 51. Optionally, the frame may be fitted with feet. The winder may further include an actuator (not shown) configured to drive the winding mast 51 in rotation relative to the frame. In particular, the actuator may include a geared motor. Alternatively, or in addition to, the winding mast 51 may be driven manually.

[0034] Here, the roller is of the above-ground type, meaning that the roller, or at least its mast 51, is elevated above the water surface. The roller's mast 51 is positioned at least partially above basin 3, at least for the winding and unwinding of the cover 2. Alternatively, the roller can be of the submerged type, meaning that the roller, or at least its mast, is located below the water surface. Generally, the roller is then installed in a housing.

[0035] The reel 5 is positioned near one of the edges of the basin 3, or proximal edge 401, here on the left of the figures 1 et 2 . The pelvis 3 has a border opposite this proximal border 401, the distal border 402.

[0036] Here, the deck 2 comprises a first portion, or main part 7, shaped to cover a large area of ​​the basin 3's surface, and a second portion, or secondary part 9, shaped to cover the remainder of this surface. The secondary part 9 and the main part 7 are arranged one after the other along the winding direction 21 of the deck 2. The main part 7 and the secondary part 9 are each shaped and dimensioned to correspond to the shape and dimensions of the deck 2 along a direction transverse to the winding direction 21.

[0037] The main section 7 and the secondary section 9 of the deck 2 are each capable of winding in their respective directions. These main sections 7 and 9 are arranged relative to each other such that their respective winding directions extend along the winding direction 21 of the deck 2.

[0038] The main part 7 of the apron 2 has a first end, or front end 15, which is located near the distal edge 402 when the apron 2 is deployed on the basin 3. This front end 15 corresponds to an end of the apron 2 intended to be attached to the distal edge 402 when the flap 1 is in the secure position. When the apron 2 rests on the surface of the basin 3, including during its winding and unwinding, the front end 15 of the main part 7 is located opposite the distal edge 402 of the basin 3. This main part 7 also has a second end, or rear end 16, opposite the front end 15 along the winding direction of the main part 7.

[0039] The secondary part 9 of the curtain 2 has a first end, or front end 17, which is located near the proximal edge 401 of the basin 3 when the curtain 2 is deployed over the basin 3. This front end 17 corresponds to an end of the curtain 2 intended to be attached to the proximal edge 401 when the flap 1 is in the secure position. The front end 17 of the secondary part 9 of the curtain 2 and the front end 15 of the main part 7 are opposite each other along the winding direction 21 of the curtain 2. When the curtain 2 rests on the surface of the basin 3, the front end 17 of the secondary part 9 is opposite the proximal edge 401 of the basin 3. The secondary part 9 of the curtain 2 also has a second end, or rear end 18, opposite its front end 17 along the winding direction of this secondary part 9.

[0040] The shutter 1 further includes a connecting assembly arranged to link the main section 7 of the curtain 2, on the one hand, and the secondary section 9 thereof, on the other hand, to the winder 5. The connecting assembly is arranged to allow the main section 7 and the secondary section 9 of the curtain 2 to pivot relative to each other, at least in areas close to their respective rear ends. The connecting assembly is capable of functionally linking the curtain 2 to the winder 5. The connecting assembly is arranged so that rotating the mast 51 of the winder 5 simultaneously causes the main section 7 and the secondary section 9 of the curtain 2 to wind up, or to unwind, depending on the direction of rotation of the mast 51.Here, the connecting assembly attaches to the main part 7 of the deck 2, in the vicinity of the rear end 16 of this main part 7, and to the secondary part 9, in the vicinity of the rear end 18 of the latter, each time in an articulated manner.

[0041] Here, the connecting assembly includes a joint 11 connected on one side to the secondary part 9 of the apron 2 and, on the other side, to the main part 7 of the latter. The joint 11 is arranged such that the main part 7 and the secondary part 9 of the apron 2 are free to pivot relative to each other, at least in areas close to their respective rear ends. The connecting assembly further includes a plurality of links 6 distributed along the length of the reel 5 to connect, with drive capability, the main part 7 and the secondary part 9 of the apron 2 to the reel 5. For example, each link 6 is attached on one side to the mast 51 of the reel 5 and, on the other side, to the joint 11.

[0042] The curtain 2 comprises a plurality of articulated blades. The main section 7 of the curtain 2 consists of a series of elementary blades 70, arranged side by side along the winding direction of the main section 7. The elementary blades 70 occupy most of the surface area of ​​the main section 7. The elementary blades 70 are joined laterally to one another, each time by means of a respective hinge 74. Each hinge 74 allows an angular displacement of two adjacent elementary blades 70. This displacement gives the main section 7 most of its winding capacity.

[0043] Here, the main part 7 of the apron 2 further includes a front end blade, or front blade 75, arranged near the end in question. This front blade 75 can be mounted on an adjacent elementary blade 70, in particular by means of a respective hinge. The main part 7 also includes a rear end blade, or rear blade 76, arranged near the end in question. This rear blade 76 is mounted on an adjacent elementary blade 70, in particular by means of a respective hinge 74.

[0044] The secondary part 9 of the apron 2 includes a front end blade, or front blade 97, arranged near the end in question. For example, the front blade 97 of the secondary part 9 of the apron 2 is analogous to the front blade of the main part 7. The secondary part 9 of the apron 2 also includes a rear end blade, or rear blade 98, arranged near the end in question.

[0045] Here, the rear blade 98 of the secondary part 9 of the apron 2 is mounted on the front blade 97 of this part, for example by means of a respective articulation 94. Alternatively, one or more blades, in particular of the type of the elementary blades 70 of the main part, may be interposed between the front blade 97 and the rear blade 98.

[0046] The elementary blades 70 of the main part 7, where applicable those of the secondary part 9, the rear blade 98 of this secondary part 9, that 76 of the main part and the front blades 75 and 97 of these parts may each comprise a section of profile generally flat.

[0047] The links 6, or at least some of them, connect the joint 11 to the winding mast 5. As a replacement or in addition, at least one of these links 6 can be attached to one of the slats of the main part 7 of the apron 2, in particular its rear end slat 76, and / or to one of the slats of the secondary part 9, in particular its rear end slat 98.

[0048] The flap 1 includes at least a first hooking mechanism which, once actuated, is capable of retaining the apron 2 on the distal edge 402 of the pelvis 3 and a second hooking mechanism, homologous to the first, to retain the apron 2 on the proximal edge 401 of the pelvis 3.

[0049] The first fastening mechanism is mounted, at least in part, on the main part 7 of the deck 2, in the vicinity of the front end 15 of the latter, while the second fastening mechanism is at least in part installed on the secondary part 9, in the vicinity of the front end 17 of the latter.

[0050] The first and second fastening mechanisms each comprise at least one respective elementary fastening device 13. Here, each of these mechanisms comprises two elementary devices 13.

[0051] Here, each elementary device 13 comprises an embedded part 131, attached to the main part 7 of the apron 2 or to its secondary part 9, and a fixed part 132, attached to the distal edge 402 or to the proximal edge 401 of the pelvis 3. The embedded part 131 of each elementary device 13 is able to engage with the fixed part 132 of the latter in order to retain the apron 2 to the pelvis 3.

[0052] The actuation of the first or second latching mechanism corresponds to the actuation of each of the elementary devices 13 of this mechanism. The actuation of an elementary device 13 specifically involves the mutual engagement of its mounted part 131 and its fixed part 132.

[0053] The first latching mechanism is of the automatic-actuated type. This first mechanism is activated without requiring direct human intervention, at least for the engagement of the mounted parts 131 with the fixed parts 132, as a result of the main part 7 of the deck 2 bearing against the distal edge 402 of the basin 3. Such bearing occurs during the deployment of the deck 2, when the main part 7 of the deck 2 comes into contact with the distal edge 402 of the basin 3. By way of non-limitation, this first latching mechanism includes, for example, one or more devices of the type described in FR 3 098 536 A1 or EP 2 682 540 A2 as elementary devices 13. The second latching mechanism is also of the automatic-actuated type. This second mechanism is activated without requiring human intervention, as a result of the secondary part 9 of the apron 2 pressing against the proximal edge 401 of the pelvis 3.

[0054] In particular, as shown schematically on the figure 1 , the onboard part 131 of at least some of the hooking mechanisms 13 can be integrated into the front blade 75 of the main part 7 of the apron 2, or into the front end blade 97 of the secondary part 9.

[0055] We are referring to the figure 3 .

[0056] The winding mast 51 has an active surface 53, generally cylindrical, whose axis corresponds to the axis of rotation 52 of the mast 51. The winding mast 51 is, for example, made from a cylindrical aluminum tube, for example obtained by extrusion. The active surface 53 of the mast 51 corresponds to the outer surface of the mast 51.

[0057] The secondary part of the curtain is wound around a portion of the active surface 53 of the mast 51 corresponding, circumferentially, to an arc of a circle and, axially, to the length of the elementary blades of this secondary part. The secondary part of the curtain is located near this active surface 53, without any other part of the curtain lying between the secondary part and the active surface 53. The secondary part is aligned with the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51.

[0058] The elementary blades of this secondary part, here its front blade 97 and its rear blade 98, are in contact with the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51. For example, this contact is made here via an upper face 31 of these blades, that is to say a face of these blades opposite to the face intended to rest against the surface of the water once the apron is deployed.

[0059] A portion of the main part of the deck adjacent to the secondary part of the latter is wound over this secondary part, then over what remains of the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51. This portion of the main part of the deck includes the rear blade 76 and a succession of elementary blades 70-i, the index i varying here from 1 to 8. Some at least of the elementary blades 70-i of this adjacent portion are in contact with one or more of the elementary blades of the secondary part of the deck.

[0060] For example, the rear blade 76 of the main deck section is wound around the rear blade 98 of the secondary deck section. The elementary blade 70-1 of the main deck section adjacent to the rear blade 76 is wound around, and in contact with, the front blade 97 of the secondary deck section. This contact occurs via the undersides of the blades, that is, the face of these blades intended to rest on the water surface once the deck is deployed.

[0061] The next portion, according to the direction of the curtain's winding, of the main part of the curtain is wound onto the remaining free area of ​​the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51, partially in contact with this surface. The blades 70-3 to 70-7 of this next portion are wound onto the active surface 53. Some blades, here 70-4 to 70-6, are in contact with this active surface 53, others are not, for example 70-2 and 70-7. This corresponds to the first winding of the curtain onto the mast 51.

[0062] After this section corresponding to the first winding turn, the rest of the main part of the deck winds back on itself. The individual slats of the rest of the deck wind first onto slats 76 and 70-1 to 70-8 of the section wound in the first turn, then onto the following individual slats.

[0063] Where the main part of the deck is wound over the secondary part thereof, a radial overthickness of the winding is created on an angular sector of the mast 51 corresponding to the winding of the secondary part over the active surface 53 of the mast 51.

[0064] On one revolution of the mast 51 corresponding to a first winding of the curtain around the active surface 53 of the mast 51, the front blade 97 and the rear blade 98 of the secondary part of the curtain, the rear blade 76 of the main part and the adjacent elementary blades of the main part, here the blades referenced 70-1 to 70-8, are wound. Following this revolution, in the first winding of the curtain, there is an overlap of the front blade 97 of the secondary part of the curtain and a blade 70-1 of the main part, while, on a diametrically opposite portion of the winding, there is a single blade 70-5 of the main part.

[0065] This extra thickness significantly shifts the axis of inertia of the wound section of the curtain from the axis of rotation 51 of the mast 5. This shift corresponds to an imbalance, which can negatively affect the operation of the winder motor. In particular, with each rotation, the imbalance causes a torque that is sometimes resisting and sometimes driving the winder motor.

[0066] The excess thickness in question also causes a lack of circularity in the curtain's winding. The winding takes on a generally ovoid shape. This shape results in a variable torque on the motor with each turn, sometimes high, sometimes low. At any given moment, a portion of the torque exerted on the motor corresponds approximately to the torque generated by the weight of the raised section of the curtain between the mast and the water's surface. In the case of an ovoid winding, the winding radius increases and decreases within the same turn, depending on the position of the excess thickness. The same is true for the torque exerted on the motor.

[0067] In the case shown here, the front blade 97 of the secondary section of the deck comprises a profile whose thickness is significantly greater than the thickness of the profiles of the other deck blades, in particular the rear blade 98 of this secondary section, the rear blade 76 of the main section, and the elementary blades 70-i of this section. This further increases the offset of the axis of inertia and the imbalance.

[0068] For example, here, the front blade 97 of the secondary part of the apron has a greater thickness than the other elementary blades 70-i. This thickness is close to double the thickness of the elementary blades 70-i of the main part, for example to obtain a reinforced blade.

[0069] Here, in the first winding turn of the deck, a portion of the deck winds onto the active surface 53 of the mast 51.

[0070] On this first turn, the winding thickness is approximately three times the thickness of a 70-i elementary blade where the 70-1 and 70-2 elementary blades wind around the front end blade 97. This thickness corresponds to the thickness of the front blade 97 plus that of one of the 70-i elementary blades of the main section. In a diametrically opposite area, the main section of the deck is in direct contact with the active surface 53. There, the winding thickness corresponds to the thickness of a 70-i elementary blade. On the first turn, and then on subsequent turns, the winding thickness varies. In the vicinity of the secondary section 9, a high winding point is found each time.

[0071] In practice, due to the rigidity and width of the elementary blades 70-i, the greatest winding thickness can be offset relative to the secondary part 9. For example, here, on the first turn, the winding point furthest from the axis of the mast 51 is located near the joint between the blades referenced 70-7 and 70-8. The second furthest point is located on the blade referenced 70-2.

[0072] We are referring to figures 4 à 6 .

[0073] There figure 4 shows the winding of a portion of the apron similar to the figure 3 .

[0074] Here, the shutter comprises a plurality of elementary spacers 43, each interposed between the winding mast 51 and the curtain at the point where the latter is wound. These elementary spacers 43 jointly maintain a portion of the main part of the curtain at a distance from the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51.

[0075] Secondary part 9 corresponds to an end section of deck 2, while said portion of main part 7 corresponds to a second section of deck 2 adjacent to the end section of deck 2.

[0076] Here, the elementary spacers 43 are interposed between the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51 and at least some of the elementary blades 70-i of the main part of the deck.

[0077] The elementary spacers 43 are configured to maintain the main part of the curtain, in particular its elementary blades 70-i, at a distance from the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51 that is substantially equal over the first winding of the curtain. This results in a first winding of the curtain that is approximately circular.

[0078] The elementary spacers 43 are arranged so as to keep the main part of the deck away from the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51, where this main part winds over this active surface 53, and not over the secondary part of the deck.

[0079] At least some of the elementary spacers 43 are distributed over a circumferential portion of the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51, distinct from that around which the secondary part of the curtain is wound. The elementary spacers 43 are distributed over the circumference of the active surface 53 left free by the secondary part of the curtain. The main part of the curtain is allowed to wind in a substantially circular fashion, at least on the first winding turn. This also allows the axis of inertia of the wound curtain to be brought closer to the axis of rotation 52 of the mast 51.

[0080] For example, the elementary spacers 43 are distributed in several alignments, and each alignment extends substantially along an axial direction of the active surface 53 of the mast 51. The alignments in question can be substantially equidistributed angularly over a portion of the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51.

[0081] As illustrated on the figures 5 et 6 The elementary spacers 43 can also be distributed axially over the portion of the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51 left free by the blades of the secondary section. This distributes the load of the deck onto the spacers of the spacer arrangement. It also reduces the degree of bending deformation of the deck. On the figure 6 The deck is not shown in order to better illustrate the arrangement of the elementary spacers 43. Here, the elementary spacers 43 are divided into three groups. The elementary spacers 43 in each group are distributed circumferentially around the active surface 53. The groups are distributed axially along the active surface 53.

[0082] The number of groups can be adapted according to the length of the mast 51. The number of elementary spacers 43 in each group can be adapted in particular according to the diameter of the mast 51.

[0083] The elementary spacers 43 are distributed between the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51 and the main part of the deck, axially and circumferentially.

[0084] The elementary spacers 43 form an arrangement that acts on only a portion of the active surface 53 of the mast 51, namely the portion left free by the blades of the secondary part of the curtain. Here, this arrangement is active on the portion of the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51 around which the elementary blades referenced 70-3 to 70-8 wind.

[0085] At the winding of the deck, the elementary spacers 43 are inserted between the part of the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51 opposite the main part of the deck, while the rest of this active surface 53 is opposite the secondary part.

[0086] Alternatively, the shutter may include a single spacer configured to act on the portion of the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51 left free by the slats of the secondary part, i.e. to keep the main part of the curtain away from the active surface 53 of the mast 51.

[0087] Here, each elementary spacer 43 has a first face, or internal face, arranged so as to bear against the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51 and a second face, or external face, opposite to the first, and arranged so as to bear against at least a portion of the main part of the deck, in particular at least some of the blades which compose it.

[0088] We are referring to figures 7 et 8 .

[0089] Here, each elementary spacer 43 is fixed to the main part of the curtain, more specifically to a lower face 33 of this part, via its outer face. It is easier to determine which areas of the curtain need to be kept away from the active surface 53 than which part of the active surface 53 these areas will wrap around. By fixing the elementary spacers 43 to the curtain, the positioning of the spacer assembly on the shutter is facilitated. The elementary spacers 43 protrude from the lower face 33 of the main portion of the curtain.

[0090] More specifically, each elementary spacer 43 is here integral with an elementary blade 70-i of the main part of the deck. Each elementary spacer 43 can be fixed to the underside 33 of its respective elementary blade 70-i.

[0091] The elementary spacers 43 can be arranged in a plurality of groups, with the elementary spacers 43 of each group attached to a respective elementary blade 70-i. Here, for example, the elementary spacers 43 are grouped in threes on their respective elementary blade 70-i. The number of elementary spacers 43 per elementary blade 70-i is adjusted according to the width of the deck, that is, its dimension in a direction perpendicular to the winding direction.

[0092] The elementary spacers 43 are distributed at the winding of the apron over a length of the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51.

[0093] Here, the elementary spacers 43 are further distributed over mutually adjacent elementary slats 70-i. Here, the elementary spacers 43 are distributed over six elementary slats referenced 70-3 to 70-8. The number of elementary slats equipped with one or more elementary spacers 43 can be adapted according to the diameter of the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51, the space occupied by the secondary part of the curtain, and the pitch of the elementary slats.

[0094] The elementary spacers 43 are distributed at the winding of the deck on the circumference of the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51 left free by the secondary part of the deck.

[0095] In each case, the elementary spacers 43 of an elementary blade 70-i are longitudinally offset relative to the elementary spacers 43 of the adjacent elementary blades. For example, the elementary spacers 43 of the elementary blades referenced 70-3, 70-5, and 70-7 are offset relative to the elementary blades 70-4, 70-6, and 70-8. This prevents collisions between neighboring elementary spacers 43 at the deck's winding point.

[0096] Here, each elementary spacer 43 comprises a base 47 that corresponds in shape to the deck and a bearing surface 42, opposite the base 47. The base 47 lies on the outer face of the spacer, while the bearing surface 42 lies on its inner face. Each spacer 43 further comprises a body 12 on which the base 47 and the bearing surface 42 bear. During the winding of the deck, the body 12 of each spacer is interposed between the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51 and the main part of the deck, while the base 47 rests on the deck and the bearing surface 42 contacts the active surface 53 of the mast 51.

[0097] A rounded bearing surface 42 allows for linear support with the active surface 53. This promotes circular winding.

[0098] Here, the body 12 of each elementary spacer 43 has a half-disk profile. Alternatively, this body 12 can have a truncated disc, triangular or polygonal profile.

[0099] The outer face of each elementary spacer 43 here presents a base 47 through which the elementary spacer 43 is connected to its respective elementary blade 70-i. The base 47 corresponds in form to this elementary blade 70-i, at least the inner face 33 of the latter.

[0100] We are referring to figures 9 à 11 .

[0101] This variant differs from the method of implementation of figures 6 And 7in that the elementary spacers 43 are distributed over elementary blades 70-i separated from each other by at least one elementary blade 70-i without an elementary spacer. Here, for example, the elementary spacers 43 are distributed over the elementary blades referenced 70-4, 70-6, and 70-8. The elementary blades referenced 70-3, 70-5, and 70-7 are without an elementary spacer. This is also a means of preventing mutual collision of elementary spacers 43 during the winding of the deck.

[0102] On the first winding, the elementary blades 70-i wound on the elementary spacers 43 are held at a distance from the active surface 53 of the mast 51 by these elementary spacers 43. This is the case here for the elementary blades referenced 70-4, 70-6 and 70-8 on the figure 9 These elementary blades 70-i are articulated to elementary blades 70-i opposite the mast 51, that is to say without an interposed elementary spacer. This is the case for elementary blades 70-3, 70-5 and 70-7.

[0103] The elementary blades 70-i opposite the mast 51 are kept at a distance from the active surface 53 by the other elementary blades 70-i. For example, here, the elementary blades referenced 70-5 and 70-7 are kept at a distance from the active surface 53 by the elementary blades referenced 70-4, 70-6, and 70-8. The elementary blade referenced 70-3 is kept at a distance from the active surface 53 by the elementary blades referenced 70-2 and 70-4. The elementary blade 70-1 is kept at a distance by the elementary blade referenced 70-2 and by the joint 11.

[0104] This arrangement makes it possible to limit the number of elementary spacers 43 needed to keep a portion of the main part of the deck away from the active surface 53. Installing elementary spacers 43 opposite one elementary blade 70-i out of two is sufficient since the other elementary blade 70-i benefits from the effect of the elementary spacer 43.

[0105] The 43 elementary spacers of the different blades are aligned with each other here. Here, the 43 elementary spacers are distributed similarly across the elementary blades referenced 70-4, 70-6, and 70-8. The elementary blades referenced 70-4, 70-6, and 70-8 are therefore interchangeable.

[0106] We are referring to the figure 12 .

[0107] This variant differs from the method of implementation of figures 6 And 7 and that of the figures 9 à 11 in that the panel includes elementary spacers 431 attached to the active surface 53.

[0108] As with the methods of implementation of the figures 6 And 7 The elementary spacers 431 are divided here into three groups (only one discernible in the figure). The elementary spacers 431 of each group extend circumferentially over the active surface 53. The groups extend axially along the active surface 53.

[0109] Here, each elementary spacer 431 has a first face, or internal face, formed with the active surface 53 of the winding mast 51 and a second face, or external face, opposite to the first, and arranged so as to support at least a portion of the main part of the deck, in particular at least some of the blades which compose it.

[0110] Compared to the previous embodiment, each elementary spacer 431 also comprises a base 471 and a bearing surface 421 supported by a body 121. However, the base 471 here lies on the inner face of the elementary spacer 431, while the bearing surface 421 lies on its outer face. The base 471 is form-matched with the active surface 53.

[0111] When the deck is wound up, the base 471 rests on the active surface 53 of the mast 51 and the bearing surface 421 contacts the deck.

[0112] A rounded bearing surface 421 allows for linear support with the elementary blades 70-i of the deck, at least the inner face 33 of the latter. This promotes circular winding.

[0113] Here, the body 121 of each elementary spacer 431 has a truncated disk profile. Alternatively, this body can have a triangular or polygonal profile.

[0114] We are referring to the figure 13 .

[0115] In this other embodiment, the flap 1 may include one or more elementary spacers 431 distributed between the active surface 31 of the mast 51 and the main part of the deck over an area diametrically opposite to the secondary part of the deck, so as to bring the axis of inertia of the rolled-up deck closer to the axis of rotation 52 of the mast 51.

[0116] In this embodiment, the shutter may include one or two alignments of elementary spacers 431, distributed along the mast 51 so as to distribute the bending force along the elementary blades 70-i.

[0117] Here, the shutter includes elementary spacers 431 distributed axially over a reduced angular section of the active surface 53, here on the order of one to three elementary blade widths.

[0118] In this variant, the deck winding has an ellipsoidal shape. This allows the wound deck to be mechanically balanced and the imbalance to be reduced by bringing the deck's axis of inertia closer to the axis of rotation 52 of the mast 51.

[0119] Here, the elementary spacers 431 are integral with the active surface 53 as in the embodiment of the figure 11 Alternatively, the basic spacers positioned opposite the secondary section can be fixed to the deck, as in the embodiment of the figures 4 à 10 .

[0120] We are referring to figures 14 à 16 .

[0121] In this alternative embodiment, the shutter comprises at least one collar-shaped spacer 143, integral with the active surface 53 of the mast 51. For example, the spacer collar 143 can be attached to this active surface 53 of the mast 51. The spacer collar 143 extends circumferentially over a portion of the active surface 53 of the mast 51 left free by the secondary part of the curtain. The spacer collar 143 has an inner face that corresponds in shape to the active surface 53 of the mast 51 and an outer face shaped as a support for at least some of the elementary slats 70-i of the main part of the curtain.

[0122] Each spacer collar 143 comprises a plurality of slots 55 arranged one after the other in the circumferential direction of the active surface 53 of the mast 51. Each slot 55 has an upper surface 59 that coincides with the upper face of the spacer collar 143. The slots 55 are spaced apart and connected by a connecting portion 61 that coincides with the inner face of the collar 143. The upper surfaces 59 of the slots 55 are intended to be in contact with the main part of the deck when it is rolled up. Here, the upper faces 59 are generally flat. Alternatively, the upper surfaces 59 could be slightly curved. The connecting portions 61 form surfaces in contact with the active surface 53 of the mast 51. Each collar 143 can adhere to the mast 51 via the connecting portions 61. Here, the spacer collar 143 comprises two rows of slots 55.The 55 crenellations are here evenly distributed angularly over the angular sector covered by the collar 143.

[0123] The 143 collar can be made of plastic, by injection.

[0124] To make the collar 143, a straight crenellated band 144 can be made flat (cf. figure 14 The length of the slotted strip 144 depends on the diameter of the winding mast and the angular portion of the active surface 53 to be covered. In its straight state, the connecting portions 61 are coplanar. The slotted strip 144 can be cut from a longer strip to facilitate the production of the collars 143.

[0125] The crenellated band 144 can be deformed to fit the active surface 53 of the mast 51 and form a collar 143. In this way, a collar 143 can be mounted on winding masts 51 of different diameters.

[0126] Each collar 143 can be seen as comprising a plurality of elementary spacers, each formed of a slot 55, these elementary spacers being distributed circumferentially on the active surface 53 of the mast 51. A shutter can comprise a plurality of spacers 143 mounted on this active surface 53 at a distance from each other along the longitudinal direction of the mast 51. The collars 143 are then distributed along the length of the active surface 53 left free by the secondary part of the curtain.

[0127] We are referring to figures 17 And 18 .

[0128] This variant differs from the method of implementation of figures 14 à 16 in that the shutter includes one or more rigid, monobloc 144 spacer collars.

[0129] Each spacer collar 144 extends circumferentially over a portion of the active surface 53 of the mast 51 left free by the secondary part of the deck. Each spacer collar 144 has an inner face 62 corresponding in shape to the active surface 53 of the mast 51 and an outer face 63 shaped as a support for at least some of the elementary blades of the main part of the deck.

[0130] Here, the inner face 62 is cylindrical. The inner face 62 has a radius corresponding to that of the active surface 53. Here, the outer face 63 is cylindrical. The difference in radius between the outer face 63 and the inner face 62 corresponds approximately to the thickness of the secondary part of the deck.

[0131] We are referring to the figure 19 .

[0132] This figure shows a strut-type winding mast 151. The mast 151 has an active surface 53 extending along the longitudinal direction of the mast 151 and over a first angular sector of this mast 151. The mast 151 also has a strut surface 243 extending along the longitudinal direction of the strut-type mast 151 and over a second angular sector of this mast 151. The active surface 53 has a radius smaller than the radius of the strut surface 243. The difference in these radii corresponds approximately to the additional thickness generated by the secondary part of the apron.

[0133] The first angular sector has an arc length corresponding to the width of the secondary part of the deck. The second angular sector corresponds to one revolution less the first angular sector. The second angular sector is complementary to the first.

[0134] The active surface 53 is intended to receive the secondary part of the deck, while the main part of the latter will wrap at least partially around the spacer surface 243. When the deck is wrapped, the main part of the deck wraps away from the active surface 53.

[0135] We have shown a shutter comprising a strut assembly fixed to the winding mast and a shutter comprising a strut assembly fixed to the curtain. However, we can also consider a shutter comprising a strut assembly with a portion fixed to the winding mast and a portion fixed to the curtain.

[0136] For the sake of simplicity, a cover according to the invention has been described in relation to a pool with a generally rectangular outline, as is the case for most swimming pools. However, the invention is not limited to this pool shape. It is sufficient that the shape and dimensions of the cover, in particular its main and secondary parts, correspond to the shape and dimensions of the pool.

[0137] A shutter according to the invention comprising an above-ground roller has been described. However, the invention is not limited to this type of roller but can also be applied to shutters comprising an in-ground roller. In this case, the first winding turn may have a significantly different appearance from that described above. However, an imbalance is created in a similar manner. To reduce this imbalance, spacers similar to those described in connection with an above-ground roller, with regard to their shape and position, can be used.

[0138] A shutter comprising a slatted curtain has been described. The invention also applies to a curtain essentially devoid of slats, provided that this curtain has an end such that a raised section is formed when it is rolled up. This could be, for example, a cover comprising a flexible fabric curtain hinged to end slats.

[0139] A shutter has been described comprising, as an end section that wraps around the active surface of the mast, a secondary part of the curtain that folds under a portion of the main part. However, a shutter without a secondary part could be considered, comprising, for example, an end blade with a thickness greater than the rest of the curtain.

[0140] We have described a shutter in which spacers are fixed either to the mast or to the curtain. However, we could also consider a shutter in which some spacers are fixed to the mast and others to the curtain. We could also consider a shutter in which at least some of the spacers are inserted between the curtain and the mast during rolling.

[0141] A shutter has been described in which the elementary struts are distributed both along the length of the active surface of the winding mast and over an angular portion of this active surface. The invention can be viewed as a shutter comprising several strut structures, each active over an angular portion of the active surface and distributed axially along the active surface of the mast.

[0142] Each spacer structure can be a single piece, as in the embodiment of the figure 17 , and / or include several elementary spacers, as on the figure 4 For example, the spacers of each structure can be distributed circumferentially over the active surface.

[0143] Alternatively, at least some of these structures may be axially active along the active surface of the mast and circumferentially distributed over this surface. Each structure may be a single unit and / or comprise a plurality of elementary struts arranged to form an alignment of elementary struts or a functionally analogous arrangement.

Claims

1. Safety cover for a basin, in particular the basin (3) of a swimming pool, of the type comprising: a cover (2); a winding mast (51) for this cover (2), the winding mast (51) having an active surface (53) generally cylindrical, around which at least one end section (9) of the cover (2) is wound, characterized in that the shutter (1) further includes at least one spacer arrangement (43, 431, 143, 144, 243) which is interposed between the winding mast (51) and the curtain (2) at the winding of the latter, the spacer arrangement (43, 431, 143, 144, 243) being arranged so as to keep a second section (7) of the curtain (2), adjacent to the end section (9), at a distance from the active surface (53) of the winding mast (51).

2. Shutter according to claim 1, wherein the strut arrangement (43, 431) comprises one or more elementary struts (43, 431), and these elementary struts are interposed between the winding mast (51) and the second section (7) of the curtain (2) on an area of ​​the active surface (53) of the mast (51) opposite the end section (9) of the curtain (2).

3. Flap according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the strut arrangement (43, 431, 143) comprises a set of elementary struts (43, 431, 143), and these elementary struts (43) are distributed along the active surface (53) and / or over an angular portion of this surface (53).

4. Flap according to claim 3, wherein at least some of the elementary spacers (43, 431) of said set are distributed in one or more alignments, and each alignment extends along an axial direction of the active surface (53).

5. Flap according to claim 4, in which the alignments are distributed substantially equally angularly over a portion of the active surface (53).

6. Flap according to any one of claims 4 to 5, wherein the elementary spacers (43, 431) of two neighboring alignments are offset from each other along the axial direction of the active surface (53).

7. A shutter according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the strut arrangement (43, 431, 143, 243) comprises at least one generally curved surface (42), at least in part, and this surface (42) comes into contact with the active surface (53) of the mast (51) or the second section (7) of the deck (2).

8. Shutter according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second section (7) of the apron (2) comprises a plurality of blades (70) articulated to one another and the strut arrangement (43, 143, 243) comprises one or more elementary struts (43) which are each interposed between a respective blade (70) of the second section (7) and the active surface (53) of the mast (51).

9. Flap according to claim 8, in which the elementary spacers (43, 431) are interposed between the active surface (53) of the mast (51) and the respective blades (70) of the second section (7), these respective blades being separated from each other by at least one blade (70) of the second section (7) which comes opposite the active surface (43) of the mast (51).

10. A section according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the strut arrangement (43, 431, 143, 144, 243) is integral with at least one of the active surface (53) and the second section (7) of the deck (2).

11. Shutter according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the strut arrangement (43, 431, 143, 243) is at least partly integral with the winding mast (51), in particular at least partly formed as one piece with the winding mast (51).

12. A flap according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least part of the strut arrangement (43) is integral with the second section (7).

13. Pool cover comprising: an end section (9) intended to wind onto an active surface (53) of a winding mast (51); a second section (7) adjacent to the end section (9); characterized in that It includes: at least one strut arrangement (43, 143, 243) which is inserted between the winding mast (51) and the deck (2) at the winding of the latter, the strut arrangement (43, 143, 243) being integral with the second section (7) and intended to keep the second section (7) of the deck (2) away from the active surface (53).

14. Pool cover winding mast (51) comprising an active surface (53) generally cylindrical, against which an end section (7) of a curtain (2) is able to wind, characterized in that the winding mast (51) further includes at least one spacer arrangement (43, 431, 143, 243) intended to be interposed between the active surface (53) and the deck (2) so as to keep a second section (7) of the deck (2) adjacent to the end section (9) at a distance from the active surface (53), to the winding of the deck (2).

15. Pool cover spacer arrangement, comprising a body (12) intended to be interposed between an active surface (53) generally cylindrical of a winding mast (51) and a curtain (2) comprising an end section (9) adapted to wind around the winding mast (51) in contact with the active surface (53), the body (12) being arranged so as to keep away from the active surface (53) a second section (7) of the curtain (2) adjacent to the end section (9), at the winding of the curtain (2).

Images