Safety device for a pool cover

Abstract

Safety device for a pool cover. A safety device for a pool cover, particularly a swimming pool cover, comprises a support (403, 503) and a retaining rod (405, 505) mounted on the support (403, 503). The rod extends along a longitudinal axis (477, 577) and has at least one retaining face (411) suitable for engaging with a latch (1). The support (403, 503) is securely mounted to the cover or a pool wall such that the longitudinal axis (477, 577) of the rod (405, 505) is generally positioned vertically. The rod (405, 505) is capable of rotating relative to the support (403, 503) about an axis of rotation substantially parallel to its longitudinal axis (477, 577), between at least a first position, in which the retaining face (411) is active and is directed towards the support (403, 503), and a second position, in which the retaining face (411) is retracted. (Fig. 3)

Description

Title of the invention: Safety device for a pool cover

[0001] The invention relates to the field of pool covers, in particular swimming pool covers. More particularly, the invention relates to a safety device capable of fixing the cover of a pool to the wall of this pool.

[0002] Swimming pools, particularly private swimming pools, are equipped with protective devices that prevent people from accidentally falling into the pool when the pool is not in use, or at least reduce the risk of dramatic consequences if such a fall were to occur. These devices are also intended to prevent children from accessing the pool alone. These protective devices may be made mandatory, in particular by laws. They may be the subject of standards.

[0003] The protective devices in question may be varied. For example, devices comprising barriers or shelters may be used, which prohibit access to the edges of the pool. As a replacement or in addition, devices comprising one or more fall detectors may also be used, capable of triggering an alarm signal, whether audible or otherwise, if necessary.

[0004] Nowadays, protective devices are widely used, including a cover adapted to the pool, which is put in place when the pool is not in use. The cover also helps to limit the evaporation of the pool water and to keep it clean, by preventing any external pollution, such as debris, insects, plants and others. The cover also plays a role in the thermal insulation of the pool water, by reducing heat loss. In certain configurations, the cover can also improve the efficiency of natural heating by solar radiation.

[0005] The covers in question may be rigid or semi-rigid, for example in the form of a shutter made of slats hinged to each other. These covers prove to be very effective. However, they are quite difficult to handle, unless specific devices are provided for their installation and removal, such as reels for example, possibly motorized. Typically, such a reel is placed at one end of the pool.

[0006] When a cover is deployed over the pool so as to cover it, it is appropriate, for safety reasons, to fix the cover to at least some of the walls of the pool or to the edges of the latter. Typically, at least one of the ends of the cover is fixed to one end of the pool by means of a safety device.

[0007] Safety devices are known having a first part, also called a bridge in the art, comprising a safety member in the form of a generally elongated part, and a second part comprising a lock, capable of engaging with the bridge. The bridge and the lock are fixed respectively to a wall of the pool and to the end of the cover.

[0008] EP 3 763 899 A1 describes a safety device comprising a lock, fixed to the end of a cover, and a bridge comprising a retaining rod, integral with a support fixed to a pool wall. The rod extends along a longitudinal axis and is mounted on the support so that its longitudinal axis is positioned vertically. The rod has a retaining face, via which the lock is engaged with the rod.

[0009] The safety device further comprises an unlocking element, connected to the lock. The lock is disengaged from the trigger guard by pulling on the unlocking element. Such pulling may result from a fall onto the cover, which is problematic from a safety point of view.

[0010] The Applicant sought to improve the situation.

[0011] A safety device is proposed for a pool cover. This safety device comprises a support and a retaining rod, mounted on the support and extending along a longitudinal axis. The rod has at least one retaining face, capable of cooperating with a lock. The support is mounted securely on the cover or a pool wall such that the longitudinal axis of the rod is positioned generally vertically. The rod is capable of rotating relative to the support about an axis of rotation substantially parallel to its longitudinal axis, between at least a first position, in which the retaining face is active and is directed towards the support, and a second position, in which the retaining face is retracted.

[0012] The release of the lock by the rod involves a movement of the rod relative to the support. This movement cannot be accidental. The safety device according to the invention has increased safety because, in the event of a fall onto the cover, the lock remains engaged with the rod.

[0013] Furthermore, the safety device according to the invention also simplifies the disengagement of the lock. The safety device according to the invention is particularly suitable for use in an automated locking system for a cover on a pool wall.

[0014] Optional features of the invention, complementary or substitutable, are set out below.

[0015] - The rod further has at least one disengagement face, capable of cooperating with the lock. This face is active and is directed towards the support when the rod is in the second position.

[0016] - At least one of the disengagement faces comprises at least one surface of guide, capable of cooperating with the lock. This surface is active when the rod is in the second position.

[0017] - The rod has a plurality of faces of the type of the retaining face and a plurality of faces of the disengagement face type. The faces of the retaining face type and the faces of the disengagement face type are arranged alternately around the longitudinal axis.

[0018] - The rod has an odd number of faces of the type of the retaining face and faces of the type of the disengagement face.

[0019] - The rod has three faces of the type of the retaining face and three faces of the type of the disengagement face.

[0020] - The support has a projection opposite the rod, while a space between the stem and this advance is strictly less than 8 millimeters.

[0021] - The rod comprises a widened portion which has a notch, suitable for housing the advance and forming at least one stop adapted to this advance. The stop is active when the rod is pivoted from its second position to its first position or from its first position to its second position.

[0022] - The device further comprises a magnetic coupling. This coupling comprises an enlarged portion integral with the rod, at least rotatable, and a magnetic coupling part mounted on the support, opposite the enlarged portion. A rotation of the magnetic coupling part relative to the support 503) drives the rod from its first position to its second position.

[0023] - The magnetic coupling comprises at least one pair of permanent magnets. One is housed in the enlarged portion. The other in the magnetic coupling part. These magnets are arranged relative to each other so as to have the same polarity orientation.

[0024] - The widened portion has at least one stable position relative to the part magnetic coupling, position in which at least some of the magnets of the magnetic coupling part are opposite a respective magnet of the enlarged portion.

[0025] - The magnetic coupling part or the enlarged portion further houses at least an additional permanent magnet. This magnet has a reverse polarity orientation relative to the other permanent magnets. The additional magnet is arranged relative to the others in such a way as to recall the magnetic coupling part and the enlarged portion towards the stable position.

[0026] - The support has a window. The widened portion has at least one groove which is located opposite at least part of the window when the rod is located in its first position. The rod can be held in its first position by means of an accessory inserted into the groove and capable of coming into abutment against the window of the support.

[0027] - The enlarged portion has a visual indicator, which is arranged near the groove and is located opposite at least part of the window when the rod is in its first position.

[0028] - The rod has a visual indicator, which is revealed when the rod is in its first position.

[0029] - The device further comprises the lock. In the first position, the face of retainer is presented to the lock so that the lock is engaged with the rod via this face. In the second position, the lock is out of engagement with the rod.

[0030] - The disengagement face is presented to the lock in the second position. The disengagement face is shaped in such a way that the rod tends to open the lock in this second position.

[0031] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention are set out in detail in the following description, given with reference to the appended drawings, in which: • [Fig.l] is a sectional view of a safety device according to the invention, the trigger guard having a first state and the lock being engaged with the trigger guard; • [Fig.2] is analogous to [Fig.l], the bridge presenting a second state and the lock being engaged with the trigger guard; • [Fig.3] is analogous to [Fig.2] and represents the lock disengaging from the bridge; • [Fig.4] is analogous to [Fig.3]; • [Fig.5] is analogous to [Fig.2], the lock being disengaged from the trigger guard; • [Fig.6] is analogous to [Fig.l], the lock being disengaged from the trigger guard; • [Fig.7] is analogous to [Fig.6] and represents the lock engaging with the bridge; • [Fig.8] is analogous to [Fig.l]; • [Fig.9] is analogous to [Fig.7]; • [Fig. 10] represents a section of the bridge, in isometric perspective; • [Fig.l 1] represents part of the bridge, in isometric perspective; • [Fig. 12] is an exploded view of part of the bridge, in iso perspective metric.

[0032] The attached drawings contain, for the most part, elements of a certain character. They may therefore not only serve to better understand the present invention, but also contribute to its definition, where appropriate.

[0033] Reference is made to Figures 1 to 9.

[0034] These figures show a safety device intended to equip a pool, in particular the pool of a private swimming pool. The device mainly comprises a locking device, or lock 1, intended to be mounted securely on a cover of the pool or a wall of this pool, and a retaining device, or bridge 400, intended to be mounted securely on the wall or the cover, unlike the mounting of the lock 1. The lock 1 is able to engage with the bridge 400, as shown in [Fig.l] in particular, so that the cover is fixed to the wall of the pool, or retained thereon. Equivalently, the lock 1 and the bridge 400 can be seen as being able to engage each other, or the bridge 400 as being able to engage with the lock 1.

[0035] The bridge 400 mainly comprises a support 403 and a retaining rod 405 pivotally mounted on the support 403. The rod 405 has a longitudinal axis 477. The support 403 is fixed, for example to the wall of the basin, typically in such a way that the longitudinal axis 477 of the rod 405 is vertical. The rod 405 is capable of pivoting relative to the support 403 around an axis of rotation substantially parallel to its longitudinal axis 477. Here, this axis of rotation corresponds to the longitudinal axis 477 of the rod 405.

[0036] The support 403 has a frame-forming portion 421, which is fixed to the wall of the basin. The bridge 400 here has a median plane 6 (shown in FIGS. 6 and 9), which comprises the axis of rotation of the rod 405, here its longitudinal axis 477. Here, the median plane 6 extends substantially perpendicular to the wall of the basin.

[0037] The support 403 further has an arm 423, which extends from the frame 421 and supports at its end opposite the frame 421 a lug (not shown), called the lower lug. The lower lug extends along the axis of rotation of the rod 405, here its longitudinal axis 477. The rod 405 has at one of its ends, here its lower end, a bore, in shape cooperation with the lower lug. This bore and the lower lug together form a rotation guide for the rod 405.

[0038] The support 403 further has a housing portion (not shown), which houses a motor assembly capable of rotating the rod 405 relative to the support 403. The rod 405 is kinematically coupled to the motor assembly by means of a magnetic coupling (not shown in FIGS. 1 to 9), housed at least partly in the housing. Here, the housing is arranged in an upper portion of the support 403, opposite the arm 423 relative to the rod 405.

[0039] Here, the support 403 also has, opposite the rod 405, a projection 419. The projection 419 extends from the frame 421 and becomes thinner. The projection 419 is arranged between the arm 423 and the casing of the support 403. A space is provided between the rod 405 and the projection 419.

[0040] The lock 1 comprises a support, here in the form of a lower part of a housing 301, as well as a pair of branches mounted inside the housing 301, namely here a first branch, or right branch 101, mainly on the right of figures 1 to 9, and a second branch, or left branch 201, mainly on the left of these figures. For the sake of clarity, the housing 301 is here shown open, that is to say without its cover.

[0041] The right branch 101 and the left branch 201 jointly delimit a cavity 7 capable of receiving at least one longitudinal section of the retaining rod 405.

[0042] The right branch 101 and the left branch 201 each further have a respective end portion, or head 5, by means of which the rod 405 can be retained in the cavity 7, at least when these heads are sufficiently close to each other ([Fig.l]). The heads 5 are here shaped into respective hooks 51, at least in part. The heads 5 correspond to the active parts of the lock 1.

[0043] The right branch 101 and the left branch 201 are arranged here opposite each other. The lock 1 shown here comprises a pair of homologous parts, each shaped into a respective branch of the right branch 101 and the left branch 201. Alternatively, the right branch 101 and the left branch 201 are made in one piece.

[0044] The lock 1, by means of its housing 301, is fixed for example in the vicinity of one end of the cover, in particular when the support 403 of the bridge 400 is fixed to the wall of the pool. For example, the housing 301 can be mounted on an end blade, when the cover takes the form of a flap (not shown).

[0045] The lock 1 has at least one state in which the heads 5 are sufficiently distant from each other to delimit between them a passage adapted to at least one longitudinal section of the rod 405, at least in one position of this rod 405 relative to the support 403 ([Fig.4]).

[0046] The lock 1 has at least one state in which the heads 5 are sufficiently close to each other to prevent the passage of at least one longitudinal section of the rod 405, at least in one position of this rod 405 relative to the support 403 ([Fig.l]).

[0047] In a lock 1 whose branches 101, 201 are fixed or slightly deformable, these two states can be one.

[0048] Here, the lock 1 can have several states which correspond to different spacings of the heads 5 relative to each other, as in Figures 4 and 7 for example. Here, the lock 1 can also have a closed state, visible in Figures 1 and 6 for example, where the heads 5 of the right branch 101 and of the left branch 201 are closest to each other.

[0049] For example, the right branch 101 and the left branch 201 are each mounted in a movably manner on the housing 301. According to an opening movement of the lock 1, these branches move relative to the housing 301 such that their heads 5 move away from each other. A closing movement of the lock 1 corresponds to a movement of these branches such that the heads 5 move towards each other. Typically, the opening and closing movements are carried out in opposite directions. In the case of the lock 1 described here, by way of example only, the right branch 101 and the left branch 201 are each rotatably mounted on the housing 301. The opening and closing of the lock 1 correspond to rotational movements of the branches in opposite directions.

[0050] The right branch 101 and the left branch 201 each have here a respective end portion, or articulation 37, opposite the head 5 and by means of which this branch is rotatably mounted on the housing 301 around a respective pivot 3. The right branch 101 and the left branch 201 each also have a respective intermediate portion 9, which connects the articulation 37 of this branch to its head 5.

[0051] Along its hook 51, each branch 101, 201 has a lateral surface of which at least one part forms a face generally oriented towards the cavity, or interior face 23. Here, another part of this lateral surface also forms a face directed away from the interior face 23, or exterior face 25. The interior face 23 partly borders the cavity 7.

[0052] As shown in [Fig.l] in particular, the inner face 23 of the hooks 51 is arranged so as to retain the rod 405 inside the cavity 7, in at least one position of this rod 405 relative to the support 403 of the bridge 400, in particular when the heads 5 of the lock 1 are close to each other.

[0053] The lateral surface further forms here, on the head 5 of each branch 101, 201, a respective end face 29. Each end face 29 connects the inner face 23 and the outer face 25. Each end face 29 corresponds here to the end of the respective hook 51.

[0054] The lock 1 further comprises an elastic return member, in the form of a compression spring 107, which connects the joints 37 of the right branch 101 and the left branch 201 together. The spring 107 returns the heads 5 of the right branch 101 and the left branch 201 towards each other.

[0055] The lock 1 does not have its own opening mechanism, that is to say that the lock 1 does not comprise any mechanism capable of being controlled in such a way as to cause a movement or deformation of the branches 101, 201 tending to separate the heads 5 from each other.

[0056] Figures 1 to 8 show the bridge 400 and the lock 1 in a typical relative position, which corresponds for example to a cover deployed on the surface of the water, that is to say generally extending along a horizontal plane, and at one end of this cover opposite the wall of the basin. Lock 1 is located opposite the rod 405. Lock 1 is located at the level of the median plane 6 of the bridge 400.

[0057] Reference is made more particularly to [Fig. 1].

[0058] The rod 405 has at least one face shaped into a retaining face 411, capable of cooperating with the inner faces 23 of the lock 1 when the lock 1 is engaged with the rod 405. The rod 405 is capable of adopting a first stable position relative to the support 403 such that its retaining face 411 is directed towards the support 403, that is to say towards the rear face of the support 403.

[0059] In [Fig. 1], the rod 405 is located inside the cavity 7, in its first position relative to the support 403. Its retaining face 411 is directed towards the heads 5 of the branches 101, 201. The rod 405 can be retained by these heads 5 of the branches 101, 201.

[0060] The lock 1 is engaged with the bridge 400 via the rod 405. The safety device is locked. The cover is fixed to the wall of the pool. The bridge 400 is in a first state, or locking state.

[0061] The rod 405 may comprise several faces of the type of the retaining face 411, in particular distributed around the longitudinal axis 477 thereof. Here, for example, in addition to the retaining face 411, the rod 405 has two additional faces 409 of the type of the retaining face 411. The retaining face 411 and the additional faces 409 of the type of the retaining face 411 are here equidistant from the longitudinal axis 477.

[0062] The retaining face 411 and the additional faces 409 of the type of the retaining face 411 are analogous to each other. Here, the retaining face 411 and the additional faces 409 of the type of the retaining face 411 each comprise essentially a generally planar surface 412.

[0063] The retaining face 411 of the rod 405 is close to the inner faces 23 of the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches. Depending on the movement of the cover relative to the pool, the retaining face 411 may be in abutment against the heads 5, in particular against their inner faces 23, here by means of its flat surface 412. When the cover is subjected to a force which tends to move it away from the pool wall, for example caused by a fall onto the latter, the retaining face 411 of the rod 405 comes to bear on one of the inner faces 23 of the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches, or these two inner faces 23.

[0064] When the rod 405 is in its first position relative to the support 403, the retaining face 411 is opposite the projection 419. The space which separates the projection 419 from the retaining face 411, here from its flat surface 412, is sufficiently narrow to prevent a finger from being pinched between the support 403 and the rod 405, or at least to considerably reduce the risk thereof. This space remains sufficiently wide to allow the rotation of the rod 405 around its longitudinal axis 477. For example, The space in question measures approximately 5 millimeters.

[0065] A portion of the branches 101, 201 of the lock 1 can be housed in the space which separates the retaining face 411 of the rod 405 and the projection 419 of the support 403, here the heads 5, in particular the terminal faces 29 thereof.

[0066] Reference is now made to Figures 2 to 5.

[0067] These figures represent the lock 1 disengaging from the bridge 400.

[0068] [Fig. 2] illustrates the start of this disengagement. [Fig. 2] is similar to [Fig. 1], except that the rod 405 is in a second position relative to the support 403, in which its retaining face 411 is directed obliquely relative to the rear face of the support 403. This retaining face 411 is now directed away from the heads 5 of the branches 101, 201.

[0069] The rod 405 remains in the cavity 7. The bridge 400 is in a second state, or unlocking state, in which the retaining face 411 of its rod 405 is retracted. The lock 1 remains engaged with the bridge 400. However, the lock 1 is no longer engaged with the bridge 400. The safety device is unlocked, that is to say that if the cover is pulled, the end of the latter can move significantly away from the wall of the pool. The cover is no longer fixed to the wall of the pool.

[0070] Here, the rod 405 further comprises at least one face shaped into a disengagement face 435, capable of cooperating with the heads 5 of the branches 101, 201, in particular their inner faces 23, to release the rod 405 from its grip in the lock 1.

[0071] In the position of the rod 405 shown in [Fig.2], the disengagement face 435 is presented to the heads 5 of the lock 1.

[0072] As shown in [Fig. 2], when the rod 405 is in its second position relative to the support 403, the disengagement face 435 is directed towards the support 403. In particular, the disengagement face 435 is opposite the projection 419. The space provided between the rod 405 and the projection 419 has a reduced dimension compared to the first position of the rod 405 ([Fig. 1]). For example, this space is of the order of a millimeter.

[0073] Between the position of the rod 405 shown in [Fig.l] and that of [Fig.2], the rod 405 has rotated relative to the support 403, here around its longitudinal axis 477. As shown here, this rotation is carried out in the clockwise direction. As a replacement or in addition, this rotation could be carried out in the counterclockwise direction.

[0074] The rod 405 may comprise several faces of the type of the disengagement face 435. Here, for example, in addition to the disengagement face 435, the rod 405 has two additional faces 437 of the type of the disengagement face 435. The disengagement face 435 and the additional faces 437 of the type of the disengagement face 435 are here equidistant from the longitudinal axis 477.

[0075] The disengagement face 435 and the additional faces 437 of the type of the face of disengagement face 435 are in particular analogous to each other. Here, the disengagement face 435 and the additional faces 437 of the type of the disengagement face 435 each essentially comprise a projecting surface arranged as a leading edge 436.

[0076] Here, the disengagement face 435 of the rod 405 further has two additional surfaces shaped as first guide surfaces 433, active during disengagement of the rod 405 from the lock 1. The first guide surfaces 433 of the disengagement face 435 are adjacent to the leading edge 436 thereof. Here, the first guide surfaces 433 are shaped in a similar manner to the generally planar surfaces of the faces of the type of the retaining face 409, 411.

[0077] Each of the faces of the type of the retaining face 409,411 and the faces of the type of the disengagement face 435,437 extends along the longitudinal axis 477. The faces of the type of the retaining face 409,411 and the faces of the type of the disengagement face 435,437 are arranged alternately around the longitudinal axis 477 of the rod 405. A rotation of the rod 405 around its axis 477 makes it possible to alternately present to the lock 1 one of the faces of the type of the retaining face 409,411 and one of the faces of the type of the disengagement face 435,437.

[0078] In particular, the rod 405 has a general prism shape with a regular polygon base, here with a triangular base, at least some of the faces of which comprise faces of the type of the retaining face 409,411.

[0079] The rod 405 rotates on its longitudinal axis 477 until the bridge 400 assumes its unlocking state. Here, this corresponds to a rotation of 60° of the rod 405, in the clockwise direction.

[0080] The space between the rod 405 and the projection 419 is reduced. The heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches are no longer housed in this space. The end faces 29 of the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches move away from each other. The end faces 29 of the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches engage with the projection 419. The lock 1 begins to open.

[0081] Reference is made to [Fig.3].

[0082] This figure shows the continuation of the disengagement of the lock 1 from the rod 405, as it results for example from forces tending to move the cover away from the wall of the pool, in particular when rolling up the cover. This [Fig.3] illustrates the continuation of [Fig.2].

[0083] The rod 405 is in its second position relative to the support 403. The rod 405 here has a face shaped into a release face 431, active when the lock 1 is disengaged from the rod 405. When the rod 405 is in its second position relative to the support 403, the release face 431 is directed away from the rear face of the support 403. Here, the release face 431 comprises one additional faces of the type of the retaining face 411.

[0084] The end faces 29 of the right 101 and left 201 branches leave the projection 419. The end faces 29 of the right 101 and left 201 branches cooperate with the first guide surfaces 433 of the rod 405. The end faces 29 slide along the latter. The arrangement of the first guide surfaces 433 means that this tends to open the lock 1.

[0085] Reference is made to [Fig.4].

[0086] This figure shows the end of the mutual disengagement of the rod 405 and the lock 1. It illustrates the continuation of [Fig.3], as it results for example from a further distance of the end of the cover from the pool wall, in particular during the continuation of the rolling up of the cover.

[0087] The rod 405 is in its second position relative to the support 403. The end faces 29 of the right 101 and left 201 branches are in contact with the additional faces 437 of the type of the disengagement face 435, in particular with the leading edges 436 thereof. The lock 1 is in a more open state than that shown in [Fig.3]. The rod 405 is out of the cavity 7.

[0088] Reference is made to [Fig.5].

[0089] This figure shows the lock 1 out of engagement with the rod 405, for example after the disengagement illustrated in figures 2 to 4. This figure illustrates a relative position of the bridge 400 and the lock 1 which results, in particular, from an additional distance of the end of the cover from the pool wall relative to [Fig.4].

[0090] In [Fig. 5], the rod 405 is in its second position. The lock 1 is closed. The rod 405 is outside the cavity 7. The release face 431 of the rod 405 is opposite the outer faces 25 of the heads 5.

[0091] The bridge 400 can then return to its configuration described in relation to [Fig.l], by a rotation of the rod 405 on its longitudinal axis 477 until this rod 405 reaches its first position relative to the support 403. Here, this corresponds to a rotation of 60° of the rod 405, in the anti-clockwise direction.

[0092] Reference is now made to Figures 6 and 7. These figures represent the lock 1 engaging the bridge 400.

[0093] [Fig.6] shows the lock 1 opposite the rod 405, with a view to fixing the cover to the wall of the pool. The rod 405 is located outside the cavity 7 of the lock 1, out of engagement.

[0094] The rod 405 comprises at least one face shaped into an engagement face 413, capable of cooperating with the heads 5 of the branches 101, 201, in particular their outer faces 25, to cause the lock 1 to engage with the rod 405.

[0095] The rod 405 has at least a third stable position relative to the support 403 in which the engagement face 413 is directed opposite the rear face of the support 403 relative to the longitudinal axis 477. Here, the third position and the first position of the rod 405 correspond to the same position of the rod 405 relative to the support 403. Here, when the rod 405 is in the third position, the bridge 400 is in a locking state.

[0096] In [Fig. 6], the rod 405 is in this third position. The engagement face 413 is opposite the heads 5, in particular their outer faces 25.

[0097] In the particular case shown here, the engagement face 413 is opposite the retaining face 411 relative to the longitudinal axis 477 of the rod 405.

[0098] Reference is made to [Fig.7].

[0099] This figure represents the lock 1 continuing its engagement with the rod 405, as it results for example from efforts tending to bring the cover closer to the wall of the basin. This [Fig.7] illustrates the continuation of [Fig.6].

[0100] The rod 405 remains in its third position.

[0101] In the example shown here, the engagement face 413 has two surfaces shaped into second guide surfaces 415, capable of cooperating with the end faces 29 of the lock 1 upon engagement of the lock 1 with the rod 405. These second guide surfaces 415 are active upon engagement of the lock 1 with the rod 405. Here, one of these second guide surfaces 415 corresponds to one of the first guide surfaces of the disengagement face. Here, the second guide surfaces 415 correspond to the generally planar surfaces of the additional faces of the type of the retaining face 411. The engagement face 413 further has an attack surface 414 shaped so as to initiate an opening of the lock 1 from its closed state.

[0102] The engagement face 413 of the rod 405 cooperates here with the end faces 29 of the right 101 and left 201 branches. The lock 1 is open. The end faces 29 of the right 101 and left 201 branches are engaged with the second guide surfaces 415 of the engagement face 413 of the rod 405 and slide along the latter. This tends to open the lock 1 by moving the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches apart from each other. These second guide surfaces 415 move the heads 5 away from each other to open a passage allowing access to the cavity 7. Previously, the engagement face 413 has begun its cooperation with the lock 1 by the engagement of its attack surface 414 between the heads 5 of the lock 1. In [Fig.7], the attack surface 414 is located in the cavity 7.

[0103] Once the rod 405 is in the cavity 7, the rod 405 can be pivoted so as to be in its first position relative to the support 403 and to be engaged in the lock 1. Here, this is unnecessary, insofar as the third position and the first position of the rod 405 relative to the support 403 are the same.

[0104] Reference is made to [Fig.8].

[0105] This figure shows the lock 1 and the bridge 400 in a relative position which may occur, for example, following the position of [Fig.l] and before the step shown in [Fig.2],

[0106] The rod 405 remains in its first position relative to the support 403. Compared to the configuration shown in [Fig.l], the cover has moved towards the pool wall. Due to this movement, the end faces 29 of the heads 5 move apart in contact with the projection 419 of the support 403 and engage with it. The space provided between the retaining face 411 of the rod 405 and the projection 419 of the support 403 is released. The bridge 400 and the lock 1 remain engaged with each other.

[0107] Here, the configuration shown in this [Fig.8] can also result for example from an additional displacement of the basin cover towards the basin wall, in the continuity of [Fig.7].

[0108] Reference is made to [Fig.9].

[0109] This figure shows a configuration that can occur when the lock 1 engages with the bridge 400.

[0110] The rod 405 is in its third position relative to the support 403.

[0111] The outer faces 25 of the heads 5 are partly shaped into a ramp, capable of guiding the rod 405 towards the cavity 7 when the lock 1 is presented to the rod 405.

[0112] In the configuration shown in [Fig.9], the lock 1 is offset relative to the median plane 6 of the bridge 400, here to the right. This configuration may result from a movement of the cover on the water. The movement of the end of the cover towards the pool wall causes the interaction of the engagement face 413 of the rod 405 with the heads 5, in particular the head 5 of the left branch 201. In this interaction, the attack surface 414 of the rod 405 comes to bear against the ramp of the outer face 25 of the head 5, here of the left branch 201. This interaction tends to open the lock 1. The lock 1 is thus in an open state similar to that described in relation to [Fig.7].

[0113] Furthermore, the engagement of the attack surface 414 with the ramp of the left branch 201 guides the movement of the cover to the left, as it continues to advance towards the pool wall. In this way, the lock 1 is positioned in the median plane 6 of the bridge 400 and the end faces 29 of the right 101 and left 201 branches engage with the rod 405, as described in relation to [Fig.7].

[0114] Due to the symmetry of the lock 1, a similar effect is obtained when the lock 1 is offset to the left relative to the median plane 6 of the bridge 400.

[0115] Reference is made to Figures 1 to 9.

[0116] According to the embodiment shown in these figures, the rod 405 moves between its first position and its second position by a rotation of 60° around its longitudinal axis 477.

[0117] The disengagement face 435 comprises one of the second guide surfaces 415 of the engagement face 413. This disengagement face 435 further comprises the generally planar surface 412 of the retaining face 411.

[0118] The release face 431 comprises one of the second guide surfaces 415 of the engagement face 413.

[0119] The retaining face 411 comprises one of the first guide surfaces 433 of the disengagement face 435.

[0120] The engagement face 413 corresponds to one of the additional faces 437 of the type of the disengagement face 435.

[0121] This embodiment has the advantage of requiring little energy for the movement of the rod 405 between the locking state and the unlocking state of the bridge 400. In particular, due to the relative positioning of the engagement face 413 and the retaining face 411 on either side of the longitudinal axis 477, after the mutual engagement of the rod 405 and the lock 1, it is not necessary to move the rod 405 relative to the support 403 to bring the rod 405 and the lock 1 into mutual engagement.

[0122] According to an alternative embodiment, the disengagement face 435 and the retaining face 411 are mutually opposite relative to the longitudinal axis 477 of the rod 405. In this case, the rod 405 moves between its first position and its second position by rotating 180° around its longitudinal axis 477.

[0123] In this case, the disengagement face 435 corresponds to the engagement face 413. The release face 431 comprises the retaining face 411. The generally planar surfaces 412 of the guide faces 409 correspond to the first guide surfaces 433 of the disengagement face 435 and to the second guide surfaces 415 of the engagement face 413.

[0124] Reference is made to Figures 10 to 12.

[0125] These figures show an exemplary embodiment of bridge 501 for the safety device of figures 1 to 9. The elements of this bridge 501 which are analogous to those described in relation to the bridge of figures 1 to 9 bear the same reference numbers, increased by one hundred. For the sake of clarity, the support 503 is shown open, that is to say without its cover. The bridge 501 is shown in [Fig. 10] in its locking state described in relation to figures 1 to 9.

[0126] The bridge 501 has a retaining rod 505, similar to the retaining rod of the bridge of Figures 1 to 9, and a support 503, similar to the support of the bridge of Figures 1 to 9. The rod 505 is rotatably mounted on the support 503, here around an axis of rotation which corresponds to its longitudinal axis 577. The position of the rod 505 relative to the support 503 in [Fig. 10] corresponds to the first position (or third position) of the rod described in connection with Figures 1 to 9. The retaining face and the disengagement face of the rod 505 are not visible in Figures 10 to 12.

[0127] The rod 505 has, between its lower end 527 and its upper end 525, a main portion or active portion 506, which extends along its longitudinal axis 577. The active portion 506 is shown in cross-section in Figures 1 to 9. The lock engages with the rod 505 via its active portion 506. In particular, the active portion 506 has the retaining face, the additional faces 509 of the retaining face type, the disengagement face and the additional faces 537 of the disengagement face type, at least in part.

[0128] The active portion 506 of the rod 505 has, along the longitudinal axis 577, a height of value equal to the thickness value of the lock with which the rod 505 is intended to cooperate, increased by an additional play value. This additional play value is chosen so as to compensate for a slight variation in the height of water in the pool while preventing the cover from sinking deeply in the event of a fall onto the cover. Typically, for a lock thickness value of the order of 20 millimeters, the active portion 506 has a height of the order of 60 millimeters, which makes it possible to compensate for a variation in the height of water in the pool of the order of 40 millimeters.

[0129] The rod 505 further has at its upper end 525 a widened portion 539, integral in rotation with its active portion 506. Here, the widened portion 539 and the active portion 506 of the rod 505 are formed in one piece. The widened portion 539 has a flattened shape and a generally circular outer contour, centered on the longitudinal axis 577.

[0130] The lower lug 549 of the support 503 is made in the form of a part which clips onto the end of the arm 523 thereof. The lower lug 549 has the general shape of a straight cylinder, the axis of which corresponds to the axis of rotation of the rod 505, here its longitudinal axis 577. The rod 505 has at its lower end 527 a bore 551, in shape cooperation with the lower lug 549. This bore 551 and the lower lug 549 form a first bearing for the rotation of the rod 505 relative to the support 503.

[0131] The casing 545 further has an additional lug, called the upper lug 547, which extends along the longitudinal axis 577. The upper lug 547 is arranged opposite the lower lug 549. The upper lug 547 has the general shape of a straight cylinder, the axis of which corresponds to the axis of rotation of the rod 505, here its longitudinal axis 577. The widened portion 539 of the rod 505 has in its center a bore 543, corresponding in shape to the upper lug 547. This bore 543 and the upper lug 547 together form a second bearing for the rotation of the rod 505 relative to the support 503.

[0132] The magnetic coupling of the bridge 501 comprises the widened portion 539 and a magnetic coupling part 555, capable of engaging the widened portion 539.

[0133] The magnetic coupling part 555 is housed in the casing 545. The magnetic coupling part 555 is rotatably mounted in the casing 545, around an axis of rotation which corresponds to the axis of rotation of the rod 505, here its longitudinal axis 577. The magnetic coupling part 555 is arranged opposite the widened portion 539 of the rod 505. Here, the magnetic coupling part 555 is positioned above the widened portion 539 of the rod 505. The magnetic coupling part 555 has a generally annular shape, with a hollowed-out area 579 in its center. The hollowed-out area 579 is delimited by a wall of generally circular contour, which provides guidance from the inside of the magnetic coupling part 555, in its rotation around the longitudinal axis 577. The coupling part magnetic 555 has a generally circular outer contour, centered on the longitudinal axis 577 of the rod 505.

[0134] The magnetic coupling further comprises at least one pair of permanent magnets, one being arranged in the widened portion 539, the other in the magnetic coupling part 555. Here, the magnetic coupling comprises seven permanent magnets, in particular three of them being arranged in the widened portion 539 and the other four in the magnetic coupling part 555.

[0135] The widened portion 539 of the rod 505 has at least one housing suitable for housing one of the permanent magnets. Here, the widened portion 539 of the rod 505 has three housings 542, in each of which houses one of the permanent magnets 541. These housings 542 are here distributed around the bore 543 of the widened portion 539. These housings 542 are arranged at a substantially equal distance from the axis of rotation of the rod 505, here its longitudinal axis 577. These housings 542 are here arranged at equal distance from each other. Each housing 542 is arranged overhanging one of the faces of the type of the retaining face 509 of the rod 505.

[0136] The magnetic coupling part 555 has at least one housing suitable for housing one of the permanent magnets. Here, the magnetic coupling part 555 has a lateral surface 553 and six housings 561, each provided with an opening opening onto its lateral surface 553. Here, four of these six housings 561 house one of the permanent magnets 563, 565. These magnets 563, 565 here partly protrude from the openings that the housings 561 form on the lateral surface 553 of the magnetic coupling part 555. These housings 561 are arranged at substantially equal distances from the axis of rotation of the rod 505, here its longitudinal axis 577. These housings 561 are arranged at regular intervals from each other around this axis. The distance which separates the housings 561 of the magnetic coupling part 555 and the axis of rotation of the rod 505 is substantially equal to that which separates the housing 542 of the widened portion 539 of this axis.

[0137] Each magnet 541,563,565 has a first pole, or north pole, which is referenced "+" in [Fig. 12], and a second pole, or south pole, which is referenced in [Fig.12]. Each magnet 541,563,565 is arranged in its respective housing 542,561 so that the relative position of its north pole and its south pole defines an axis substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the rod 505, here to its longitudinal axis 577.

[0138] The magnets 541 of the widened portion 539 are arranged in their respective housing 542 so as to have the same polarity orientation between them. Here, each of these magnets 541 is arranged so that its north pole is oriented downwards and its south pole is oriented upwards, when the longitudinal axis 577 of the rod 505 is positioned vertically.

[0139] The magnetic coupling portion 555 here has three magnets of a first type 563. The magnets of the first type 563 are housed in three housings 561 of the magnetic coupling portion 555 arranged at equal distances from each other. The magnets of the first type 563 are arranged in their respective housings 561 so as to have the same polarity orientation with each other. The magnets of the first type 563 are arranged in their respective housings 561 so as to have the same polarity orientation as the magnets 541 of the widened portion 539. Here, for example, each magnet of the first type 563 is arranged so that its north pole is oriented downwards and its south pole is oriented upwards, when the longitudinal axis 577 of the rod 505 is positioned vertically.

[0140] Here, the magnetic coupling portion 555 further has a magnet of a second type 565. The magnet of the second type 565 is housed in one of the housings 561 of the magnetic coupling portion 555 arranged between two of the housings 561 housing the magnets of the first type 563. The magnet of the second type 565 is arranged in its respective housing 561 so as to have a reversed polarity orientation with respect to the polarity orientation of the magnets of the first type 563. The magnet of the second type 565 is arranged in its respective housing 561 so as to have a reversed polarity orientation with respect to the polarity orientation of the magnets 541 of the widened portion 539. The magnet of the second type 565 is arranged so that its south pole is oriented downwards and its north pole is oriented upwards, when the longitudinal axis 577 of the rod 505 is positioned vertically.Alternatively, the magnetic coupling part may comprise additional magnets, in particular of the second type, distributed around the axis of rotation of this part relative to the housing, for example alternating with the magnets of the first type. Alternatively, the magnets of the second type may be arranged in the widened portion of the rod.

[0141] Here, the rod 505 and the support 503 are formed from parts made of plastic. The magnets 541 of the rod 505, once positioned in their respective housing 542, are sealed with resin, so as to guarantee their sealing. The cover (not shown) arranged on the casing 545 ensures the sealing of the magnets 563, 565 of the magnetic coupling part 555.

[0142] The widened portion 539 here also has a notch 540, intended to receive the advance 519 of the support 503 when the rod 505 is between its locking state and its unlocking state. The notch 540 extends between two housings 542 of the widened portion 539, from the bore 543 thereof. The notch 540 forms two stops for the advance 519 when the rod 505 rotates relative to the support 503. One of these stops is active when the rod 505 rotates from its first position (or third position, corresponding to the locking state of the bridge 501) to its second position (corresponding to the unlocking state of the bridge 501) relative to the support 503. The other of these stops is active when the rod 505 rotates from its second position to its first position relative to the support 503.

[0143] The magnets 541 of the widened portion 539 and the magnets of the first type 563 of the magnetic coupling part 555 are arranged relative to each other so that the rod 505 has at least one equilibrium position, or stable position, relative to the magnetic coupling part 555, in which each of the magnets 541 of the rod 505 is positioned opposite one of the magnets of the first type 563. Here, the cooperation between the notch 540 of the rod 505 and the projection 519 has the effect that the rod 505 has a single equilibrium position relative to the magnetic coupling part 555. In this equilibrium position, each of the magnets 541 of the rod 505 is opposite one of the magnets of the first type 563 of the magnetic coupling part 555 and the notch 540 of the rod 505 is located opposite the magnet of the second type 565 of the magnetic coupling part 555.

[0144] The coupling between the magnetic coupling portion 555 and the enlarged portion 539 of the rod 505 causes the rod 505 to tend to position itself relative to the magnetic coupling portion 555 in its equilibrium position.

[0145] The casing 545 houses the motor assembly capable of rotating the rod 505 around its axis of rotation, here its longitudinal axis 577. The motor assembly comprises a motor (not shown) kinematically connected to the magnetic coupling part 555. The kinematic connection between the motor and the magnetic coupling part 555 is achieved by means of a gear mechanism comprising a toothed wheel 557, mounted on the output of the motor. The magnetic coupling part 555 has a toothed portion 559, which meshes with the toothed wheel 557. The rotation of the motor rotates the toothed wheel 557 in one direction, which rotates the magnetic coupling part 555 in the opposite direction.

[0146] The notched portion 559 extends along a portion of the outer contour of the magnetic coupling part 555, here connecting three adjacent housings 561. The first of these housings 561 houses the magnet of the second type 565, the second of these housings 561 houses one of the magnets of the first type 563, and the third of these housings 561 is devoid of a magnet. The magnetic coupling part 555 has a first position relative to the casing 545, in which the toothed wheel 557 meshes with the toothed portion 559 near this first housing 561 housing the magnet of the second type 565. The magnetic coupling part 555 also has a second position relative to the casing 545, in which the toothed wheel 557 meshes with the toothed portion 559 between this second housing 561 housing one of the magnets of the first type 563 and this third housing 561 without a magnet.

[0147] The magnetic coupling portion 555 has a pair of projections 558, each disposed near one of its magnet-free housings 561. These projections 558 cooperate with sensors (not shown) so as to detect when the magnetic coupling portion 555 is in its first position or its second position relative to the housing 545.

[0148] When the magnetic coupling portion 555 is in its first position relative to the housing 545 and the rod 505 is in its equilibrium position relative to the magnetic coupling portion 555, the rod 505 is in its first position (or third position) relative to the support 503 and the bridge 501 is in its locking state described in relation to FIGS. 1 to 9. When the magnetic coupling portion 555 is in its second position relative to the housing 545 and the rod 505 is in its equilibrium position relative to the magnetic coupling portion 555, the rod 505 is in its second position relative to the support 503 and the bridge 501 is in its unlocking state described in relation to FIGS. 1 to 9.

[0149] The first position of the magnetic coupling portion 555 relative to the housing 545 can be defined as a default position thereof.

[0150] The magnetic coupling portion 555 moves from its first position to its second position relative to the casing 545 by a rotation, here of 60° in the clockwise direction, which tends to move the bridge 501 from its locking state to its unlocking state. The magnetic coupling portion 555 moves from its second position to its first position relative to the casing 545 by a rotation, here of 60° in the counterclockwise direction, which tends to move the bridge 501 from its unlocking state to its locking state.

[0151] Thus, it is possible to move the bridge 501 in a motorized manner between its locking state and its unlocking state.

[0152] The number of magnets and their power are chosen so that the coupling between the magnetic coupling part 555 and the widened portion 539 is manually disengageable, so as to be able to move the rod 505 out of its equilibrium position relative to the magnetic coupling part 555. The bridge 501 can thus be moved between its locking state and its unlocking state manually, regardless of the position of the magnetic coupling part 555. This manual operating mode is of interest in particular in the event of a malfunction of the motor assembly. The notch 540 forms two mechanical stops for the advance 519 when the rod 505 is manually rotated relative to its support 503 between its first position and its second position.

[0153] The widened portion 539 of the rod 505 has a projection 556, which extends over one of its additional faces 537 of the disengagement face type. The cover intended to cover the support 503 has, in the middle of its front face, a window, arranged so as to reveal this projection 556 when the bridge 501 is in its locking state (i.e. the rod 505 is in its first position relative to the support 503).

[0154] The bridge 501 may further have an indicator indicating that the rod 505 is in its first position, that is to say that the bridge 501 is in its locking state. This indicator may take the form of a visual indicator revealed when the rod 505 is in its first position. Such a visual indicator may, as here, be positioned on the advancement 556. The visual indicator may for example consist of an inscription of the word "VERROUILLE" or its English equivalent "LOCK", or in a suggestive solid color. When the rod 505 is rotated relative to the support 503, in particular manually, the user is informed that the bridge 501 has reached its locking state by the revelation of the indicator through the window of the cover.

[0155] The magnets 541 of the rod 505 have, on the one hand, such a power of mutual attraction with the magnets of the first type 563, and, on the other hand, such a power of mutual repulsion with the magnet of the second type 565 that, when the rod 505 is manually moved out of its equilibrium position relative to the magnetic coupling part 555, the rod 505 tends to spontaneously reposition itself in this equilibrium position once released.

[0156] The advancement 556 further has a pair of grooves 544, intended to cooperate with a pair of corresponding lugs of a tool (not shown). When the advancement 556 is revealed by the window of the cover, the user can introduce the tool into the grooves 544. The tool thus introduced abuts against the window of the cover, which maintains the rod 505 in its first position even if this position does not correspond to its equilibrium position relative to the magnetic coupling part 555. The bridge 501 is maintained in its locking state.

[0157] The widened portion 539 of the rod 505 further has an orifice 546, intended to receive a tool or an accessory. The orifice 546 is positioned on the widened portion 539 at the level of the advancement 556. The orifice 546 is arranged close to the housing 542 of the widened portion 539 which is diametrically opposite the notch 540, relative to the longitudinal axis 577. The orifice 546 is revealed by the window of the cover when the bridge 501 is in its unlocking state (i.e. the rod 505 is in its second position relative to the support 503). The accessory may be part of the same tool as the one having the pair of lugs intended to cooperate with the pair of grooves 544 of the advancement 556. When the orifice 546 is revealed by the window of the cover, the user can introduce the accessory into the orifice 546.The accessory thus introduced comes into abutment against the window of the hood, which keeps the rod 505 in its second position even if this position does not correspond to its equilibrium position relative to the magnetic coupling part 555. The bridge 501 is kept in its unlocked state.

[0158] Thus, even in the event of a malfunction of the motor assembly, it is possible to manually turn the rod 505 relative to the support 503, and to maintain the bridge 501 in its locking state or in its unlocking state.

[0159] A retaining rod has been described which has three faces of the type of the retaining face and three faces of the type of the disengagement face. This embodiment is advantageous, in particular because it makes it possible to provide a reduced space between the rod and the projection of the support, which results in great compactness and a low risk of pinching the finger, while making it possible to make the rod cooperate with a lock whose branch heads slightly deviate from each other.

[0160] Furthermore, this embodiment makes it possible to maintain the same position of the rod relative to the support for the engagement and engagement of the lock therewith. This advantage is found in all variants of the invention having an odd number of faces of the type of the retaining face and faces of the type of the disengagement face.

[0161] According to a first variant of the invention, the rod of the safety device may have two faces of the type of the retaining face and two faces of the type of the disengagement face. This first variant is advantageous because the rod can cooperate with a lock whose branch heads deviate very slightly from each other, or are even fixed.

[0162] According to a second variant of the invention, the rod of the safety device may have four faces of the type of the retaining face and four faces of the type of the disengagement face. In this second variant, the steep slopes between the faces of the type of the retaining face allow very gradual guidance when the lock engages with the trigger guard, or disengages from it.

[0163] It has been described that the rod is capable of pivoting about an axis which coincides with its longitudinal axis relative to the support. Alternatively, the rod may be capable of pivoting relative to the support about an axis different from its longitudinal axis, for example about a vertical axis and parallel to its longitudinal axis.

[0164] It has been described that the rod is guided in rotation by a cooperation of a bore of its lower end with a lower lug of the support, possibly supplemented by a cooperation of a bore of its upper end with an upper lug of the support. Alternatively, the rod may be guided in rotation in a different manner, for example by a cooperation of a lug disposed at one of its ends with a bore of the support, or by a cooperation of an axis passing through the rod with a pair of mutually opposite bores of the support.

[0165] A disengagement face has been described whose profile has the shape of a wedge. Alternatively, the disengagement face may have a profile of a different shape.

[0166] A magnetic coupling between the rod and the motor assembly has been described, which has the advantage of ensuring the sealing of the motor assembly. Alternatively, other types of coupling are possible.

[0167] It has been described that each magnet of the rod and each magnet of the first type is arranged so that its north pole is oriented downwards and its south pole is oriented upwards, and that the magnet of the second type is arranged so that its south pole is oriented downwards and its north pole is oriented upwards, when the longitudinal axis of the rod is positioned vertically. Alternatively, each magnet of the rod and each magnet of the first type may be arranged so that its north pole is oriented upwards and its south pole is oriented downwards, while the magnet of the second type is arranged so that its south pole is oriented upwards and its north pole is oriented downwards, when the longitudinal axis of the rod is positioned vertically.

[0168] A magnetic coupling has been described involving seven magnets. This embodiment is advantageous in that it makes it possible to obtain both a rotational drive of the rod by the magnetic coupling part and a return effect of the rod towards its equilibrium position which are effective, for a limited space requirement. However, the drive effect is obtained when the magnetic coupling involves two magnets having the same polarity orientation, one being arranged on the rod, the other on the magnetic coupling part. Alternatively, the magnetic coupling may involve a permanent magnet and a ferromagnetic part, one being for example positioned on the rod, the other on the magnetic coupling part. The magnetic coupling may involve a number of permanent magnets greater than seven. For reasons of space requirement, it is preferred that this number remains less than twelve.

[0169] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but encompasses all variants conceivable by those skilled in the art. In particular, the invention is not limited to the lock model described as an example, but is capable of cooperating with any type of lock, in particular of a different shape, including with fixed branches.

[0170] A safety device has been described comprising a retaining device or bridge capable of cooperating with any type of lock. The invention also relates to an embodiment of the safety device comprising: a support, secured to one of the cover and a basin, a lock, secured to the other of the cover and the basin, a retaining rod, which extends along a longitudinal axis and has at least one face of a first type, the rod being mounted on the support so that its longitudinal axis is positioned generally vertically,

[0171] and which is characterized in that the rod is capable of rotating relative to the support, between at least a first position, in which the face of the first type is presented to the lock such that the lock is engaged with the rod via this face, and a second position, in which the face of the first type is retracted, such that the lock is out of engagement with the rod.

[0172] In this embodiment, the rod may further have at least one face of a second type, distinct from the first. This face of the second type is presented to the lock in the second position and is shaped in such a way that the rod tends to open the lock in this second position. At least one of the faces of the second type may further comprise at least one guide surface active when the lock is opened.

Claims

Claims

1. Safety device for a pool cover, the safety device comprising: - a support (403,503), - a retaining rod (405,505), mounted on the support (403,503) and extending along a longitudinal axis (477,577), the rod (405,505) having at least one retaining face (411), capable of cooperating with a lock (1), the support (403,503) being mounted integrally on the cover or a pool wall such that the longitudinal axis (477,577) of the rod (405,505) is positioned generally vertically, characterized in that the rod (405,505) is capable of rotating relative to the support (403,503) about an axis of rotation substantially parallel to its longitudinal axis (477,577), between at least a first position, in which the retaining face (411) is active and is directed towards the support (403,503), and a second position, in which the retaining face (411) is retracted.

2. Device according to claim 1, in which the rod (405,505) further has at least one disengagement face (435), capable of cooperating with the lock (1), which face is active and is directed towards the support (403,503) when the rod (405,505) is in the second position.

3. Device according to claim 2, in which at least one of the disengagement faces (435) comprises at least one guide surface (433), capable of cooperating with the lock (1), which surface is active when the rod (405,505) is in the second position.

4. Device according to one of claims 2 and 3, in which the rod (405,505) has a plurality of faces of the type of the retaining face (409,411,509) and a plurality of faces of the type of the disengagement face (435,437,537), the faces of the type of the retaining face (409,411,509) and the faces of the type of the disengagement face (435,437,537) being arranged alternately around the longitudinal axis (477,577).

5. Device according to one of claims 2 to 4, in which the rod (405,505) has an odd number of faces of the type of the face of retainer (409,411,509) and faces of the type of the disengagement face (435,437,537).

6. Device according to one of claims 2 to 5, in which the rod (405,505) has three faces of the type of the retaining face (409,411,509) and three faces of the type of the disengagement face (435,437,537).

7. Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the support (403,503) has a projection (419,519) opposite the rod (405,505), while a space between the rod (405,505) and this projection (419,519) is strictly less than 8 millimeters.

8. Device according to claim 7, in which the rod (505) comprises a widened portion (539) which has a notch (540), suitable for housing the projection (519) and forming at least one stop adapted to this projection (519), the stop being active when the rod (505) is pivoted from its second position to its first position or from its first position to its second position.

9. Device according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a magnetic coupling (555; 539), this coupling comprising an enlarged portion (539) integral with the rod (505), at least rotatable, and a magnetic coupling part (555) mounted on the support (503), opposite the enlarged portion (539), in which a rotation of the magnetic coupling part (555) relative to the support (503) drives the rod (505) from its first position to its second position.

10. Device according to claim 9, in which the magnetic coupling (555; 539) comprises at least one pair of permanent magnets (541; 563), one being housed in the widened portion (539), the other in the magnetic coupling part (555), these magnets (541; 563) being arranged relative to each other so as to have the same polarity orientation.

11. Device according to one of claims 9 and 10, in which the widened portion (539) has at least one stable position relative to the magnetic coupling part (555), position in which at least some of the magnets of the magnetic coupling part (555) are located opposite a respective magnet of the widened portion (539).

12. A device according to claim 11, wherein the magnetic coupling portion (555) or the enlarged portion (539) further houses at least one additional permanent magnet (565), which has a reverse polarity orientation relative to the other permanent magnets, the additional magnet (565) being arranged relative to the others so as to bias the magnetic coupling portion (555) and the enlarged portion (539) towards the stable position.

13. Device according to claim 12, in which the support (503) has a window, and the widened portion (539) has at least one groove (544), which is located opposite at least part of the window when the rod (505) is in its first position, and in which the rod (505) can be held in its first position by means of an accessory introduced into the groove (544) and capable of coming into abutment against the window of the support (503).

14. Device according to claim 13, in which the widened portion (539) has a visual indicator, which is arranged close to the groove (544) and is located opposite at least part of the window when the rod (505) is in its first position.

15. Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the rod (505) has a visual indicator, which is revealed when the rod (505) is in its first position.

16. Device according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising the lock (1), and in which, in the first position, the retaining face (411) is presented to the lock (1) such that the lock (1) is engaged with the rod (405,505) via this face, and, in the second position, the lock (1) is out of engagement with the rod (405,505).

17. Device according to the preceding claim, in which the disengagement face (435) is presented to the lock (1) in the second position, the disengagement face (435) being shaped in such a way that the rod (405,505) tends to open the lock (1) in this second position.

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