Pool cover lock

Abstract

Pool cover lock A lock for covering a pool, in particular a swimming pool, comprises a support (301) and a pair of branches (101, 201). Each branch (101, 201) has a respective hinge portion (37) by means of which this branch (101, 201) is rotatably mounted on the support (301). Each branch (101, 201) further has a respective end portion (5). The end portions (5) delimit, at least in part, a cavity (7), suitable for receiving a locking member. The end portions (5) of the branches (101, 201) move away from each other when the lock is opened. And these portions (5) approach each other when the lock is closed. Each branch (101,201) further has a respective intermediate portion (9), which connects the articulation portion (37) of the branch (101,201) to its end portion (5).The intermediate portions (9) of the branches (101,201) are shaped into a mutual crossing zone, active between the open state and the closed state of the lock. (fig. 8).

Description

Title of the invention: Pool cover lock

[0001] The invention relates to the field of pool covers, in particular swimming pool covers. More particularly, the invention relates to a lock for fixing the cover of a pool to the wall of the latter. The invention further relates to a locking system comprising such a lock, as well as to a cover equipped with a lock of this type.

[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 arranged at one end of the pool.

[0006] When a cover is deployed over a pool so as to cover it, it must, for safety reasons, be fixed 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 locking system.

[0007] Locking systems are known having a first part, also called a bridge in the art, comprising a locking 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 locking system comprising a bridge and a latch. The latch comprises a support and a pair of branches each mounted to rotate on the support by means of a respective articulation portion. Each branch has a respective end portion. The end portions delimit, at least in part, a cavity, suitable for receiving the bridge. The end portions of the branches move away from each other when the latch is opened, and these portions approach each other when the latch is closed.

[0009] The engagement of the bridge in the lock requires applying, via the bridge, a significant force on the end portions of the branches. Furthermore, when the mutual engagement of the bridge and the lock locks the cover on a wall of the pool, if a person falls onto the cover, the lock tends to open and release the bridge.

[0010] The system of EP 3 763 899 A1 is therefore not fully satisfactory, for reasons of ergonomics and safety.

[0011] In this context, the Applicant sought to improve the existing situation.

[0012] A pool cover lock is proposed comprising a support and a pair of branches. Each branch has a respective articulation portion by means of which this branch is rotatably mounted on the support. Each branch further has a respective end portion, the end portions delimiting, at least in part, a cavity, suitable for receiving a locking member. The end portions of the branches move away from each other when the lock is opened. These portions approach each other when the lock is closed. Each branch further has a respective intermediate portion, which connects the articulation portion of the branch to its end portion. The intermediate portions of the branches are shaped into a mutual crossing zone, active between the open state and the closed state of the lock.

[0013] The conformation of the intermediate portions of the branches in a mutual crossing zone means that the articulation portion of each of the branches is positioned on the same side of the cavity as the end portion of the other of the branches. This results in an increased moment at the engagement of the bridge, which tends to separate the branches from each other, which facilitates opening. The proposed lock opens to engage with the bridge without requiring significant force on the branches. Locking the cover on the wall of the pool is thus facilitated and is quick to implement.

[0014] When the lock and the bridge are engaged with each other, so as to lock the cover on the wall of the pool, if the end portion of one of the branches comes to exert a force on the bridge, typically following a fall on the cover, such a force results in a moment which tends to bring the branches closer to each other. The lock and the bridge remain engaged with each other. The proposed locking system thus has increased security, resulting from a self-locking or self-locking effect of the lock. This effect can be described as "paradoxical", insofar as the force produced by the bridge on the branches of the lock tends to bring these branches closer to each other rather than to separate them.

[0015] Thanks to the invention, it is furthermore possible to position the articulation portions of the branches at a distance from their end portions, in order to facilitate the separation of the branches when engaging the bridge, without however facilitating such separation once the bridge is housed in the cavity.

[0016] Optional features of the invention, complementary or substitutable, are set out below:

[0017] - In the mutual crossing zone, the intermediate portions of the branches have mutual drive regions, active when the lock is opened or closed.

[0018] - At least some of the mutual drive regions act in a re ciprocal when opening or closing the lock.

[0019] - In the mutual crossing zone, the intermediate portion of one of the branches has at least one recess, capable of housing at least in part the intermediate portion of the other branch.

[0020] - In the mutual crossing zone, the intermediate portion of each of the branches has at least one recess, capable of housing at least in part the intermediate portion of the other branch.

[0021] - In the mutual crossing zone, the intermediate portion of at least one of the branches has at least one stop surface for the other branch. This stop surface is active at the end of opening or closing of the lock.

[0022] - In the mutual crossing zone, the intermediate portion of at least one of the branches have at least two stop surfaces for the other branch. One of these surfaces is active at the end of the lock opening. The other at the end of closing.

[0023] - In the mutual crossing zone, the intermediate portion of at least one of the branches have at least two stop surfaces for the other branch. These surfaces are active at the end of the lock opening.

[0024] - The lock comprises an elastic member mounted on at least one of the branches. This organ tends to recall the end portions towards each other.

[0025] - The intermediate portions of the branches are similar, at least in the area of mutual crossing.

[0026] - The branches are similar.

[0027] A system for locking a pool cover to a pool wall is also provided, comprising a locking member and a lock as proposed above. The lock is capable of engaging with the locking member.

[0028] A pool cover is also proposed comprising a lock of the type proposed above.

[0029] 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 top view of a pool cover lock according to the invention, in a first state; • [Fig.2] is analogous to [Fig.l], the lock being in a second state; • [Fig.3] is analogous to [Fig.l], the lock being in a third state; • [Fig.4] represents a branch of the lock according to the invention, in iso perspective metric; • [Fig.5] is analogous to [Fig.4]; • [Fig.6] is analogous to [Fig.4]; • [Fig.7] represents the lock of [Fig.l] with its support; • [Fig.8] is analogous to [Fig.7], the lock being in the second state; • [Fig.9] is analogous to [Fig.7], the lock being in the third state; • [Fig. 10] is a sectional view of a locking system comprising a lock according to the invention and a bridge, the lock being disengaged from the bridge; • [Fig.l 1] is analogous to [Fig. 10] and represents a step of mutual engagement of the bridge and the lock; • [Fig. 12] is analogous to [Fig.l 1]; • [Fig.13] is analogous to [Fig.10], the lock being engaged with the trigger guard; • [Fig. 14] is analogous to [Fig. 13]; • [Fig. 15] is analogous to [Fig. 10] and represents a disengagement step mutual of the trigger guard and the lock; • [Fig. 16] is analogous to [Fig. 15]; • [Fig. 17] is analogous to [Fig. 15]; • [Fig. 18] is analogous to [Fig. 10].

[0030] 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.

[0031] Figures 1 to 3 show a lock for the cover of a swimming pool. Hidden parts of this lock are shown in dotted lines.

[0032] The lock is intended to be fixed on one end of a pool cover, or on a pool wall.

[0033] The lock comprises a pair of homologous parts, each shaped into a respective branch, namely a first branch, or right branch 101, mainly on the right of figures 1 to 3, and a second branch, or left branch 201, mainly on the left of these figures. The right branch 101 and the left branch 201 are arranged opposite each other, here mirrored relative to a plane of symmetry 6 of the lock.

[0034] The right branch 101 and the left branch 201 are each intended to be mounted for rotation on a common support (not shown).

[0035] The right branch 101 and the left branch 201 each have a respective first end portion, or articulation 37, by means of which this branch is rotatably mounted on the support. The right branch 101 and the left branch 201 each also have a respective second end portion, or head 5, opposite the articulation portion 37. 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.

[0036] The articulation 37 of each branch 101,201 here has the general appearance of a straight cylinder, the axis of which corresponds to a respective pivot 3. Each pivot 3 is formed of a lug, fixed to the support of the lock. The articulation 37 of each branch 101,201 here has a bore, corresponding in shape to the lug of its respective pivot 3. Each branch 101,201 is able to rotate relative to the support around an axis, materialized here by its respective pivot 3.

[0037] Each intermediate portion 9 has a generally angled shape, comprising two generally rectilinear parts which connect to each other, forming an angle of approximately 120° between them.

[0038] The heads 5 of the right branch 101 and of the left branch 201 are at least partly shaped into a hook 51. The part of the head 5 forming the hook 51 projects from the intermediate portion 9, at least from a part of this portion 9 close to the head 5, towards the other branch.

[0039] The intermediate portions 9 of the right branch 101 and of the left branch 201, and the heads 5 of these branches, in particular the hooks 51, jointly delimit a cavity 7 capable of receiving a locking member, such as a bolt or a bridge for example, typically fixed on the end of the pool cover or the wall of the pool.

[0040] The lock can have a closed state, visible in [Fig.l], where the heads 5 of the right branch 101 and of the left branch 201 are close to each other, a completely open state, visible in [Fig.3], where the heads 5 are furthest from each other, and intermediate open states, as in [Fig.2] for example.

[0041] An opening movement of the lock corresponds to a rotational movement of the right branch 101 and the left branch 201 such that the heads 5 of these branches move away from each other. A closing movement of the lock corresponds to a rotational movement of the right branch 101 and the left branch 201 in opposite directions, such that the heads 5 of these branches move towards each other.

[0042] The right branch 101 and the left branch 201 are shaped in such a way that their intermediate portions 9 cross, when the lock is in its fully open state, in its open intermediate states and in its closed state. In Figures 1 to 3, the head 5 of the right branch 101 is located to the right of the plane of symmetry 6, and the head 5 of the left branch 201 to the left, while the articulation 37 of the right branch 101 is located to the left of this plane 6 and the articulation 37 of the left branch 201 to the right. The intermediate portions 9 of the right branch 101 and of the left branch 201 are at least partly shaped into a mutual crossing zone, active between the fully open state and the closed state of the lock.

[0043] Figures 4 to 6 show an isolated part 1 in the form of a branch, for a lock of the type of Figures 1 to 3, for example the right branch or the left branch.

[0044] The part 1 has a first face, or notched face 31, shown in Figures 4 and 5, and a second face, or solid face 33, shown in [Fig.6]. The notched face 31 and the solid face 33 are mutually opposite. The solid face 33 is generally flat. The notched face 31 is generally flat, except in the intermediate portion 9 of the part 1, where the latter has an open recess on the notched face 31. The part 1 also has a lateral surface, which connects its notched face 31 to its solid face 33.

[0045] Along the hook 51, the lateral surface forms a face generally oriented towards the cavity, or inner face 23, and a face directed away from it, or outer face 25. The inner face 23 partly delimits the cavity of the lock. The inner face 23 serves as a retaining surface for the locking member when the latter is inside the cavity, in particular when the lock is closed. The outer face 25 is intended to be presented to this locking member, when this member is out of the engagement of the lock, outside the cavity. Here, the outer face 25 is partly shaped as a ramp 27, capable of guiding the locking member towards the cavity. The lateral surface further forms, on the end portion 5, an engagement face 29, interposed between the inner face 23 and the outer face 25, and which here corresponds to the end of the hook 51.

[0046] The distance which separates the notched face 31 of the part 1 from its solid face 33 corresponds to the thickness of this part 1. The thickness of the part 1 is here generally constant, except in the recess. In this recess, the intermediate portion 9 has a reduced thickness, for example approximately half the thickness of the rest from branch 1.

[0047] On the notched face 31 of the part 1, the recess reveals a recessed surface 15, here generally flat. This recess further defines a first intermediate surface 21, which connects the recessed surface 15 to the rest of the notched face 31 on the side of the articulation 37, and a second intermediate surface, which connects the recessed surface 15 to the rest of the notched face 31, on the side of the head 5. The first intermediate surface 21 and the second intermediate surface are mutually opposite with respect to the recessed surface 15. Here, the first intermediate surface 21 is generally flat.

[0048] The second interposed surface comprises a first portion 17 and a second portion 19, mutually adjacent and which connect to each other by a first edge 11. The first portion 17 of the second interposed surface is generally planar. The second portion 19 of the second interposed surface is generally planar. Here, the first interposed surface 21 and the second portion 19 of the second interposed surface extend substantially parallel to each other.

[0049] Here, the intermediate portion 9 further has a second edge 39, which connects the recessed surface 15 to the lateral surface, between the first intermediate surface 21 and the first part 17 of the second intermediate surface. The intermediate portion 9 further has a third edge 41, which connects the recessed surface 15 to the lateral surface, between the first intermediate surface 21 and the second part 19 of the second intermediate surface. Here, the second edge 39 and the third edge 41 are mutually opposite with respect to the recessed surface 15.

[0050] In Figures 1 to 3 in particular, the right branch 101 and the left branch 201 are each made like the part 1 of Figures 3 to 5, and arranged so that their withdrawal surfaces 15 are opposite each other. Here, the right 101 and left 201 branches are similar.

[0051] In the mutual crossing zone, the recess of the intermediate portion 9 of each of these branches houses in part at least the intermediate portion 9 of the other branch. Figures 1 to 3 show the solid face 33 of the part forming the right branch 101 and the notched face 31 of the part forming the left branch 201. In the mutual crossing zone, the left branch 201 is partly shown in dotted lines, when it is concealed by the right branch 101.

[0052] In Figures 1 to 3, the first intercalary surface 21, the first part 17 of the second intercalary surface and the second part 19 of the second intercalary surface of the right branch 101 are shown in dotted lines.

[0053] Here, the right branch 101 and the left branch 201 are in mutual contact, in particular via their respective withdrawal surface 15.

[0054] On the intermediate portion 9 of the right branch 101, the lateral surface has here, along the third edge 41, a first support portion 43. This first support portion 43 of the right branch 101 is capable of cooperating with the first intermediate surface 21 of the left branch 201, in particular at the end of opening of the lock. The first intermediate surface 21 of the left branch 201 is shaped into a stop surface for the first support portion 43 of the right branch 101 in the mutual crossing zone. This stop is active at the end of opening of the lock.

[0055] Similarly, on the intermediate portion 9 of the left branch 201, the lateral surface here has, along the third edge 41, a first bearing portion 43. This first bearing portion 43 of the left branch 201 is capable of cooperating with the first intermediate surface 21 of the right branch 101, in particular at the end of opening of the lock. The first intermediate surface 21 of the right branch 101 is shaped into a stop surface for the first bearing portion 43 of the left branch 201 in the mutual crossing zone. This stop is active at the end of opening of the lock.

[0056] Here, the intermediate portion 9 of the right branch 101 further has, on the lateral surface, a second bearing portion 45, which is positioned along the second edge 39 and close to the second intermediate surface. This second bearing portion 45 of the right branch 101 is capable of cooperating with the first part 17 of the second intermediate surface of the left branch 201, in particular at the end of closing of the lock. The first part 17 of the second intermediate surface of the left branch 201 is shaped into a stop surface for the second bearing portion 45 of the right branch 101 in the mutual crossing zone. This stop is active at the end of closing of the lock.

[0057] Similarly, the intermediate portion 9 of the left branch 201 further has, on the lateral surface, a second bearing portion 45, which is positioned along the second edge 39 and close to the second intermediate surface. This second bearing portion 45 of the left branch 201 is capable of cooperating with the first part 17 of the second intermediate surface of the right branch 101, in particular at the end of closing of the lock. The first part 17 of the second intermediate surface of the right branch 101 is shaped into a stop surface for the second bearing portion 45 of the left branch 201 in the mutual crossing zone. This stop is active at the end of closing of the lock.

[0058] Here, the intermediate portion 9 of the right branch 101 further has, on the lateral surface, a third bearing portion 47, which is positioned along the second edge 39 and close to the first intermediate surface 21. This third bearing portion 47 of the right branch 101 is capable of cooperating with the second part 19 of the second intermediate surface of the left branch 201, in particular at the end of opening of the lock. The second part 19 of the second intermediate surface of the left branch 201 is shaped into a stop surface for the third support portion 47 of the right branch 101 in the mutual crossing zone. This stop is active at the end of opening of the lock.

[0059] Similarly, the intermediate portion 9 of the left branch 201 also has, on the lateral surface, a third bearing portion 47, which is positioned along the second edge 39 and close to the first intermediate surface 21. This third bearing portion 47 of the left branch 201 is capable of cooperating with the second part 19 of the second intermediate surface of the right branch 101, in particular at the end of opening of the lock. The second part 19 of the second intermediate surface of the right branch 101 is shaped into a stop surface for the third bearing portion 47 of the left branch 201 in the mutual crossing zone. This stop is active at the end of opening of the lock.

[0060] The intermediate portion 9 of the right branch 101 further has, on the lateral surface, a drive portion 13, which is positioned along the second edge 39 and between the second bearing portion 45 and the third bearing portion 47. This drive portion 13 of the right branch 101 is capable of cooperating with the first edge or drive edge 11 of the left branch 201, in particular when opening the lock and closing it.

[0061] Similarly, the intermediate portion 9 of the left branch 201 also has, on the lateral surface, a drive portion 13, which is positioned along the second edge 39 and between the second bearing portion 45 and the third bearing portion 47. This drive portion 13 of the left branch 201 is capable of cooperating with the first edge or drive edge 11 of the right branch 101, in particular when opening the lock and closing it.

[0062] The drive portions 13 and the drive edges 11 are shaped into mutual drive regions for the right branch 101 and the left branch 201 in the mutual crossing zone. These mutual drive regions are active when the lock is opened and when it is closed. These mutual drive regions act reciprocally when the lock is opened and when it is closed.

[0063] The lock further comprises an elastic return member, here in the form of a compression spring 107, which connects the joints 37 of the right branch 101 and the left branch 201 to each other, here close to the mutual crossing zone. The spring 107 returns the heads 5 of the right branch 101 and the left branch 201 towards each other.

[0064] When the lock is closed, as in [Fig.l], the engagement faces 29 of the heads 5 are close to each other. The cavity 7 has its minimum extent. The second bearing portion 45 of the intermediate portion 9 of the right branch 101 is close to the first part 17 of the second intermediate surface of the branch left 201, in particular in abutment against it. The second support portion 45 of the intermediate portion 9 of the left branch 201 is close to the first part 17 of the second intermediate surface of the right branch 101, in particular in abutment against it. The spring 107 is in a slightly compressed state.

[0065] The lock passes from the closed state shown in [Fig. 1] to the open intermediate state shown in [Fig. 2] by a rotation of the right branch 101 and the left branch 201 about their respective articulation 37. The left branch 201 pivots counterclockwise and the right branch 101 clockwise. The engagement faces 29 of the heads 5 move away from each other. The cavity 7 enlarges. The spring 107 compresses. The second support portion 45 of the intermediate portion 9 of the right branch 101 is no longer in abutment against the first part 17 of the second intermediate surface of the left branch 201. The second support portion 45 of the intermediate portion 9 of the left branch 201 is no longer in abutment against the first part 17 of the second intermediate surface of the right branch 101.The right branch 101 and the left branch 201 drive each other in rotation, and reciprocally, via the mutual drive regions. The drive edge 11 of the right branch 101 presses on the drive portion 13 of the left branch 201 and slides along it, and vice versa. The drive edge 11 of the left branch 201 presses on the drive portion 13 of the right branch 101 and slides along it, and vice versa.

[0066] The lock is moved from the intermediate open state, shown in [Fig.2], to the fully open state, shown in [Fig.3], by further rotation of the right 101 and left 201 arms about their respective hinge 37. The left arm 201 continues to pivot counterclockwise and the right arm 101 clockwise.

[0067] In the maximum open state shown in [Fig. 3], the engagement faces 29 of the heads 5 have a maximum mutual distance. The spring 107 is compressed more than in the closed state shown in [Fig. 1]. The cavity 7 has its maximum extent. The first bearing portion 43 of the intermediate portion 9 of the right branch 101 is close to the first intermediate surface 21 of the left branch 201, in particular in abutment against it, and vice versa. The third bearing portion 47 of the intermediate portion 9 of the right branch 101 is close to the second part 19 of the second intermediate surface of the left branch 201, in particular in abutment against it, and vice versa. The first support portion 43 of the intermediate portion 9 of the left branch 201 is close to the first intermediate surface 21 of the right branch 101, in particular in abutment against it, and vice versa.The third support portion 47 of the intermediate portion 9 of the left branch 201 is close to the second part 19 of the second surface in . intercalary of the right branch 101, in particular abutting against it, and vice versa.

[0068] The lock passes from the fully open state visible in [Fig.3] to the intermediate open state shown in [Fig.2] by a rotation of the right 101 and left 201 branches about their respective articulation 37. The left branch 201 pivots clockwise and the right branch 101 counterclockwise. The engagement faces 29 of the heads 5 move towards each other. The cavity 7 narrows. The spring 107 relaxes. The spring 107 returns the heads 5 towards each other. The spring 107 separates the right 101 and left 201 branches from each other near their joints 37. The right 101 and left 201 branches drive each other in rotation, and reciprocally, by means of the mutual drive regions and under the return force of the spring 107. The drive edge 11 of the right branch 101 presses on the drive portion 13 of the left branch 201 and slides along it, and vice versa.The drive edge 11 of the left branch 201 presses on the drive portion 13 of the right branch 101 and slides along it, and vice versa.

[0069] The lock passes from the open intermediate state shown in [Fig.2] to the closed state shown in [Fig.l] by a further rotation of the right 101 and left 201 branches about their respective articulation 37, the left branch 201 pivoting clockwise and the right branch 101 counterclockwise.

[0070] Figures 7 to 9 show a lock according to the invention, for example the lock of Figures 1 to 3, installed on a support.

[0071] [Fig.7] represents the lock in the closed state, as in [Fig.l]. [Fig.8] represents the lock in the intermediate open state, as in [Fig.2]. [Fig.9] represents the lock completely open, as in [Fig.3].

[0072] The support comprises a housing 301, which is fixed for example on the end blade of a pool cover shutter. The housing 301 is shown here open, that is to say without a cover.

[0073] The right 101 and left 201 branches are rotatably mounted on the housing 301 by means of their respective articulation 37. Here, the housing 301 is symmetrical, along a plane which corresponds to the plane of symmetry for mounting the right 101 and left 201 branches.

[0074] The housing 301 has a face visible in Figures 7 to 9, called the upper face 231, and a face not visible in these figures, called the lower face. The upper face 231 and the lower face are mutually opposite. The upper face 231 and the lower face are generally planar, except that the housing 301 has a recess on its upper face 231 and a notch on its lower face.

[0075] The housing 301 is hollowed out over a height at least equal to the thickness value of the right 101 and left 201 branches. The recess reveals, on the upper face 231 of the housing 301, a recessed surface 215, essentially flat. On this recessed surface 215, the notch on the lower face of the housing 301 provides an opening which comes opposite the cavity 7 delimited by the right 101 and left 201 branches of the lock. The recess of the housing 301 further reveals an intermediate surface 221, which connects the recessed surface 215 of the housing 301 to its upper face 231. The recessed region of the housing 301 houses the right 101 and left 201 branches between the closed state and the fully open state of the lock.

[0076] The opening provided on the withdrawal surface 215 has a cavity 211 and an inlet 209 which allows access to this cavity 211. The cavity 211 provided in the withdrawal surface 215 has a shape which matches that of the cavity 7 delimited by the right 101 and left 201 branches of the lock when the latter is in the closed state.

[0077] The left half of the housing 301 will now be described, i.e. the half of the housing 301 shown on the left in FIGS. 7 to 9.

[0078] The hollowed-out region has a recess 203 in shape cooperation with the articulation 37 of the right branch 101. The recess 203 has a shape of a portion of a cylinder. The recess 203 maintains the articulation 37 of the right branch 101 and ensures rotational guidance thereof. The recess 203 and the articulation 37 of the right branch 101 cooperate together to form a pivot-type connection which allows the rotation of this branch 101 relative to the housing 301 around the axis materialized by the pivot 3.

[0079] The intermediate surface 221 has, near the recess 203, a first essentially flat stop surface 205. The first stop surface 205 is capable of cooperating with the intermediate portion 9 of the straight branch 101 at the end of closing of the lock.

[0080] The intermediate surface 221 has, at a distance from the first stop surface 205, a second essentially flat stop surface 207. The second stop surface 207 is capable of cooperating with the intermediate portion 9 of the left branch 201 at the end of opening of the lock.

[0081] At the entrance 209 of the opening provided on the recessed surface 215, the recessed surface 215 is partly shaped as a ramp 227, active when the lock is opened. This ramp 227 participates in guiding the bridge towards the cavity 211 of the housing 301 when the bridge engages with the lock. When the lock is in its closed state, the ramp 227 of the recessed surface 215 disappears behind the head 5 of the left branch 201.

[0082] These characteristics are found, in particular in a symmetrical manner, on a right half of the housing 301, that is to say the half of the housing 301 shown on the right in FIGS. 7 to 9. The homologous elements bear the same reference numbers on the right half and on the left half of the housing 301.

[0083] When the lock is in the closed state, as shown in [Fig.7], the engagement faces 29 of the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches are close to each other, so as to obstruct the entrance 209 of the cavity 211 formed in the withdrawal surface 215. The cavity 211 formed in the withdrawal surface 215 and the cavity 7 delimited by the right 101 and left 201 branches merge. The ramps 227 formed on the withdrawal surface 215 are concealed by the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches. The intermediate portions 9 of the right 101 and left 201 branches are close to the first abutment surfaces 205 of the intermediate surface 221 of the housing 301, where appropriate abutting against them.

[0084] When the lock passes from the closed state shown in [Fig.7] to the maximum open state shown in [Fig.9], passing through the intermediate open state shown in [Fig.8], the engagement faces 29 of the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches move away from each other, so as to free the entrance 209 of the cavity 211 formed in the withdrawal surface 215 and to allow access to this cavity 211. The cavity 7 delimited by the right 101 and left 201 branches enlarges relative to the cavity 211 formed in the withdrawal surface 215. The heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches, in particular their ramp parts 27, disappear behind the ramps 227 formed on the withdrawal surface 215. The ramps 227 formed on the withdrawal surface 215 become active. The intermediate portions 9 of the right 101 and left 201 branches move away from the first abutment surfaces 205 of the intermediate surface 221 of the housing 301.

[0085] When the lock is in the maximum open state, as shown in [Fig.9], the engagement faces 29 of the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches are spaced apart from each other, so as to almost completely release the entrance 209 of the cavity 211 formed in the withdrawal surface 215. The engagement faces 29 and a portion of the ramps 27 of the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches protrude into the cavity 211 formed in the withdrawal surface 215. The ramps 227 formed on the withdrawal surface 215 are fully visible. The intermediate portions 9 of the right 101 and left 201 branches are close to the second abutment surfaces 207 of the intermediate surface 221 of the housing 301, where appropriate abutting against them.

[0086] When the lock passes from the maximum open state shown in [Fig.9] to the closed state shown in [Fig.7], passing through the intermediate open state shown in [Fig.8], the engagement faces 29 of the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches move closer to each other, so as to obstruct the entrance 209 of the cavity 211 formed in the withdrawal surface 215 and to restrict access to this cavity 211. The ramps 227 formed on the withdrawal surface 215 disappear behind the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches. The heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches move away from the second stop surfaces 207 of the intermediate surface 221 of the case 301.

[0087] Reference is made to [Fig. 10].

[0088] This figure shows a locking system comprising a lock similar to that of [Fig.l] mounted on a support. The lock is in its closed state. The support comprises a housing 301 similar to the housing shown in Figures 7 to 9, and whose elements bear the same reference numbers. The housing 301 is for example fixed on the end blade of a pool cover shutter (not shown). For the sake of clarity, the housing 301 is shown open, i.e. without a cover.

[0089] The locking system further comprises a locking member, or bridge 401. The bridge 401 is for example fixed to a wall of a pool (not shown). The lock is able to engage with the bridge 401, such that the cover is fixed to the wall of the pool. Equivalently, the lock and the bridge 401 can be seen as being able to engage each other. Equivalently, the bridge 401 can be seen as being able to engage with the lock.

[0090] The bridge 401 has a support 403 and a retaining rod 405, rotatably mounted on this support 403. Here, the support 403 is fixed to the wall of the basin.

[0091] In the configuration shown in [Fig. 10], the shutter is arranged on the surface of the water, along a horizontal plane. The end blade of this shutter is positioned opposite the wall of the pool. The lock is positioned opposite the bridge 401, in order to lock the pool cover shutter on the wall of the pool. The lock is disengaged from the bridge 401. The bridge 401 is positioned in the plane of symmetry of the housing 301. Equivalently, the lock can be seen as being positioned in a median plane of the bridge 401.

[0092] The rod 405 extends along a longitudinal axis. The rod 405 is mounted on the support 403 of the bridge 401 so that its longitudinal axis is positioned substantially parallel to a vertical direction. The rod 405 is able to rotate about its longitudinal axis relative to the support 403.

[0093] The rod 405 has a general shape of a prism with a triangular base. The rod 405 has three faces of a first type 407,409,411 which are essentially planar, and three faces of a second type 413,415,417, each forming a projection. Each face of the second type 413,415,417 connects two of the three faces of the first type 407,409,411 together. The faces of the first type 407,409,411 and the faces of the second type 413,415,417 are arranged alternately around the longitudinal axis of the rod 405. The faces of the first type 407,409,411 are similar. The faces of the second type 413,415,417 are similar.

[0094] [Fig. 10] shows a first state of the bridge 401, in which its rod 405 has one of its faces of the second type 413, 415, 417, called the engagement face 413, on the outer faces 25 of the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches. The other two faces of the second type 415,417 are called disengagement faces 415,417.

[0095] The two faces of the first type 407,409 connected to each other by the engagement face 413 are called guide faces 407,409. The third face of the first type 411, which is opposite the engagement face 413 of the rod 405 relative to the longitudinal axis thereof, is called the retaining face 411.

[0096] The support 403 of the bridge 401 has, opposite the rod 405, a projection 419. A space is provided between the rod 405 and the projection 419. In the first state of the bridge 401, this space separates the projection 419 from the retaining face 411 of the rod 405. In the first state of the bridge 401, this space measures around 5 millimeters, so as to reduce the risk of pinching a finger between the support 403 and the rod 405 of the bridge 401 when handling the latter. This space is nevertheless sufficient to allow the rotation of the rod 405 on its longitudinal axis.

[0097] Reference is made to [Fig.l 1].

[0098] This figure shows a step of engagement of the lock of [Fig. 10] with the bridge 401 of this same figure. This engagement results for example from a movement of the end blade of the flap towards the wall of the basin.

[0099] The bridge 401 is in its first state. In a first engagement step, not shown, the engagement face 413 of the rod 405 engages the engagement faces 29 of the right 101 and left 201 branches, so as to move the second end portions 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches away from each other and to access the cavity 7 delimited by these right 101 and left 201 branches. The engagement face 413 of the rod 405 thus penetrates into the cavity 211 formed in the withdrawal surface 215 of the housing 301.

[0100] In a second engagement step, shown in [Fig.l 1], the lock is in an open intermediate state, similar to that described in relation to Figures 2 and 8. The engagement faces 29 of the right 101 and left 201 branches are engaged with the guide faces 407, 409 of the rod 405 and slide along the latter. This tends to open the lock by moving the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches apart from each other.

[0101] Reference is made to [Fig.12].

[0102] This figure shows another step of engagement of the lock with the bridge 401.

[0103] In the configuration shown in [Fig. 12], the bridge 401 is offset to the left relative to the plane of symmetry of the housing 301. Equivalently, the lock can be seen as being offset relative to the median plane of the bridge 401. This configuration may result from the pool cover flap moving on the water. The movement of the end blade of the pool cover flap towards the pool wall causes the engagement of the engagement face 413 of the rod 405 with the ramp 27 of the outer face 25 of the head 5 of the left branch 201. This engagement tends to open the lock, due to the particular arrangement of the intermediate portions 9 of its right 101 and left 201 branches described in relation to figures 1 to 6. The lock is thus in an open intermediate state similar to that described in relation to figures 2, 8 and 11.

[0104] Furthermore, the engagement of the engagement face 413 of the rod 405 with the ramp 27 of the left branch 201 guides the movement of the blade to the left, as the blade continues to advance towards the wall. In this way, the bridge 401 is positioned in the plane of symmetry of the housing 301 and engages with the engagement faces 29 of the right 101 and left 201 branches, as has been described in relation to [Fig. 11].

[0105] Due to the symmetry of mounting of the lock according to the invention, a similar effect is obtained when the bridge 401 is offset to the right relative to the plane of symmetry of the housing 301.

[0106] Reference is made to [Fig.13].

[0107] This figure shows the lock of [Fig. 10] engaged with the bridge 401 of this same figure. This engagement results for example from an additional movement of the blade towards the wall, in the continuity of the steps described in relation to [Fig. 11].

[0108] The bridge 401 is in its first state. The lock is in its closed state. The bridge 401 is housed in the cavity 7 delimited by the right 101 and left 201 branches, which merges with the cavity 211 formed in the withdrawal surface 215 of the housing 301. 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, where appropriate abutting against them. The bridge 401 is positioned in the plane of symmetry of the housing 301. The heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches, in particular the engagement faces 29 thereof, are housed in the space provided between the retaining face 411 of the rod 405 and the projection 419 of the support 403 of the bridge 401.

[0109] When the flap is subjected to a tensile force which tends to move it away from the wall of the pool, for example following a fall, one of the inner faces 23 of the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches, or these two inner faces 23, bear on the retaining face 411 of the rod 405. This tends to close the lock due to the particular arrangement of the intermediate portions 9 of its right 101 and left 201 branches described in relation to FIGS. 1 to 6.

[0110] The cavity 211 is delimited by a side wall shaped so as to prevent engagement of the bridge 401 with the intermediate portions 9 of the right 101 and left 201 branches of the lock, when the bridge 401 is housed in the cavity 211. This conformation of the side wall prevents the bridge 401 from opening the lock in the event of lateral movement of the cover. Such movement may occur due to movement of the water on the surface of the pool.

[0111] Reference is made to [Fig.14].

[0112] This figure shows an optional step, which can for example occur after the step shown in [Fig. 13] and before the step shown in [Fig. 15].

[0113] In this optional step, the bridge 401 remains in its first state. Starting from the configuration shown in [Fig. 13], the end blade of the pool cover flap is further moved towards the pool wall. Due to this movement, the engagement faces 29 of the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches move apart in contact with the projection 419 of the support 403 of the bridge 401 and engage with this projection 419. The space provided between the retaining face 411 of the rod 405 and the projection 419 of the support 403 of the bridge 401 is released. The lock remains engaged with the bridge 401.

[0114] When the locking system is in this configuration, a tensile force tending to move the flap away from the wall of the pool brings the locking system into its configuration described in relation to [Fig. 13].

[0115] Reference is made to [Fig. 15].

[0116] This figure shows a step of mutual disengagement of the lock of [Fig. 13] and the bridge 401 of this same figure.

[0117] [Fig. 15] shows a second state of the bridge 401, which results for example from a 180° rotation of the rod 405 on its longitudinal axis, relative to the support 403 of the bridge 401. In this second state, the engagement face 413 of the rod 405 is opposite the projection 419 of the support 403 of the bridge 401. In this second state, the space provided between the rod 405 and the projection 419 is reduced, for example measuring on the order of 1 millimeter.

[0118] The rotation of the rod 405 causes a reduction in the space provided between the rod 405 and the projection 419. The heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches are no longer housed in this space. The engagement faces 29 of the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches move away from each other. The engagement faces 29 of the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches engage with the projection 419. The lock opens, as described in relation to Figures 1 to 3 and 7 to 9.

[0119] Reference is made to [Fig.16].

[0120] This figure shows another step of mutual disengagement of the bridge 401 and the lock. This step follows the step shown in [Fig. 15]. The disengagement results for example from a movement of the end blade away from the pool wall.

[0121] The bridge 401 is in its second state. The engagement faces 29 of the right 101 and left 201 branches cease to be engaged with the projection 419. The engagement faces 29 of the right 101 and left 201 branches engage with the guide faces 407, 409 of the rod 405 and slide along the latter. This tends to open the lock by moving the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches apart from each other, as described in relation to FIGS. 1 to 3 and 7 to 9. The rod 405 comes out of the cavity 7 delimited by the right 101 and left 201 branches, and the cavity 211 formed in the withdrawal surface 215 of the housing 301.

[0122] Reference is made to [Fig.17].

[0123] This figure shows another step of mutual disengagement of the bridge 401 and the lock, which follows the step shown in [Fig.16]. This disengagement results for example from a further moving away of the end blade from the pool wall.

[0124] The bridge 401 is in its second state. The engagement faces 29 of the right 101 and left 201 branches are engaged with the disengagement faces 415, 417. The lock is in an open intermediate state similar to that shown in Figures 2 and 8. The rod 405 has come out of the cavity 7 delimited by the right 101 and left 201 branches, and from the cavity 211 formed in the withdrawal surface 215 of the housing 301. The rod 405 is across the opening 209 formed in the withdrawal surface 215 of the housing 301.

[0125] Reference is made to [Fig.18].

[0126] This figure shows the lock disengaged from the bridge 401, for example after the disengagement step shown in [Fig.17]. The disengagement results for example from a further moving away of the end blade from the pool wall compared to the step shown in [Fig.17].

[0127] The bridge 401 is in its second state. The lock is in its closed state. The bridge 401 is outside the cavity 7 delimited by the right 101 and left 201 branches, and the cavity 211 formed in the withdrawal surface 215 of the housing 301. The retaining face 411 of the rod 405 is presented to the outer faces 25 of the heads 5 of the right 101 and left 201 branches.

[0128] The locking system can then return to its configuration described in relation to [Fig. 10], for example by a 180° rotation of the rod on its longitudinal axis, relative to the support 403 of the bridge 401.

[0129] A lock has been described, each branch of which is rotatably mounted on the support by means of a pivot-type connection formed both by a form cooperation between its articulation portion and a recess in the support, and by a form cooperation between a bore in its articulation portion and a lug forming a pivot. As a variant, this pivot connection may be formed differently, for example with only one of a form cooperation between its articulation portion and a respective recess in the support, and a form cooperation between a bore in its articulation portion and a lug forming a pivot.

[0130] A lock has been described in which, in the mutual crossing zone, the intermediate portions of the branches have mutual drive regions active when the lock is opened and when it is closed. The lock according to the invention makes it possible to obtain an advantage since the mutual drive regions are active when the lock is opened. of the lock or its closing.

[0131] A lock has been described in which the mutual drive regions act reciprocally when the lock is opened and when it is closed. The lock according to the invention makes it possible to obtain an advantage since the mutual drive regions act reciprocally when the lock is opened or when it is closed.

[0132] A lock has been described in which, in the mutual crossing zone, the intermediate portion of each of the branches has a recess, which partly houses the intermediate portion of the other branch. The lock according to the invention makes it possible to obtain an advantage since the intermediate portion of one of the branches has a recess, which partly houses the intermediate portion of the other branch.

[0133] A lock has been described in which, in the mutual crossing zone, the intermediate portion of each of the branches has three stop surfaces for the other branch, one of these surfaces being active at the end of closing of the lock, and the other two being active at the end of opening of the lock. The lock according to the invention makes it possible to obtain an advantage when one of the branches has a stop surface for the other branch, this stop surface being active at the end of opening or closing of the lock.

[0134] A lock has been described comprising an elastic member mounted on the two branches, which returns the end portions towards each other. The lock according to the invention makes it possible to obtain an advantage since the elastic member is mounted on one of the branches and returns the end portions towards each other.

[0135] A lock comprising similar branches has been described. This characteristic has the advantage of rationalizing and simplifying the industrial process of manufacturing the lock. The lock according to the invention makes it possible to obtain an advantage since the intermediate portions of the branches are similar in the mutual crossing zone.

[0136] Thanks to the arrangement of the pool cover lock according to the invention, in particular its mutual crossing zone, the rotation of one of the branches of the lock causes the rotation of the other of the branches in the opposite direction. The lock according to the invention opens and closes easily to engage with a bridge. The engagement of this lock with a bridge requires applying, via this bridge, only a force of moderate intensity on the branches. This results in a locking system that is practical and quick to implement. When the lock is engaged with the bridge so as to fix a cover on a pool wall, if a person falls onto the cover, the force exerted by the bridge on the lock forces the latter to remain closed. This results in increased security for locking the cover on the pool wall.In addition, the arrangement of the stop surfaces limits the amplitude of the opening and closing movements of the lock, which protects the branches from impacts, in particular on their end portions. The lock according to . the invention is compact. The lock according to the invention is particularly suitable for use in an automated locking system for a cover on a pool wall.

[0137] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but encompasses all variants conceivable by those skilled in the art. In particular, one of the branches of the lock may be fixed relative to the support while the other of these branches is rotatably mounted on the support.

Claims

Claims

1. A pool cover lock comprising: - a support (301), - a pair of branches (101, 201), each branch (101, 201) having a respective articulation portion (37) by means of which this branch (101, 201) is rotatably mounted on the support (301), each branch (101, 201) further having a respective end portion (5), the end portions (5) delimiting, at least in part, a cavity (7), suitable for receiving a locking member (401), the end portions (5) of the branches (101, 201) moving away from each other when the lock is opened, and these portions (5) approaching each other when the lock is closed, characterized in that each branch (101, 201) further has a respective intermediate portion (9), which connects the portion of articulation (37) of the branch (101,201) at its end portion (5), the intermediate portions (9) of the branches (101,201) being shaped into a mutual crossing zone, active between the open state and the closed state of the lock.,

2. Lock according to claim 1, in which, in the mutual crossing zone, the intermediate portions (9) of the branches (101, 201) have mutual drive regions (11, 13), active when the lock is opened or closed.

3. A lock according to claim 2, wherein at least some of the mutual drive regions (11,13) act reciprocally upon opening or closing the lock.

4. Lock according to one of the preceding claims, in which, in the mutual crossing zone, the intermediate portion (9) of one of the branches (101,201) has at least one recess, capable of housing at least in part the intermediate portion (9) of the other branch (101,201).

5. Lock according to one of the preceding claims, in which, in the mutual crossing zone, the intermediate portion (9) of each of the branches (101,201) has at least one recess, capable of housing at least in part the intermediate portion (9) of the other branch (101,201).

6. Lock according to one of the preceding claims, in which, in the mutual crossing zone, the intermediate portion (9) of at least one of the branches (101, 201) has at least one stop surface (17,19,21) for the other branch (101,201), this stop surface (17,19,21) being active at the end of opening or closing of the lock.

7. Lock according to one of the preceding claims, in which, in the mutual crossing zone, the intermediate portion (9) of at least one of the branches (101,201) has at least two stop surfaces (17,19,21) for the other branch (101,201), one of these surfaces (19,21) being active at the end of opening of the lock, the other (17) at the end of closing.

8. Lock according to one of the preceding claims, in which, in the mutual crossing zone, the intermediate portion (9) of at least one of the branches (101,201) has at least two stop surfaces (19,21) for the other branch (101,201), these surfaces (19,21) being active at the end of opening of the lock.

9. Lock according to one of the preceding claims, comprising an elastic member (107) mounted on at least one of the branches (101, 201), this member (107) tending to return the end portions (5) towards each other.

10. Lock according to one of the preceding claims, in which the intermediate portions (9) of the branches (101, 201) are shaped in a similar manner, at least in the mutual crossing zone.

11. Lock according to one of the preceding claims, in which the branches (101,201) are shaped in a similar manner.

12. System for locking a pool cover on a pool wall, comprising a locking member (401) and a lock according to one of the preceding claims, the lock being capable of engaging with the locking member (401).

13. Pool cover comprising a lock according to one of claims 1 to 11.

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