Skimmer for a swimming pool basin, containing means for measuring the water level

The skimmer integrates capacitive sensors and wireless communication for precise water level measurement and automatic regulation, addressing installation and maintenance issues of mechanical and electronic sensors, ensuring efficient skimmer operation and pool cleanliness.

FR3162243B1Active Publication Date: 2026-05-08ACWA GRP
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
FR · FR
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
ACWA GRP
Filing Date
2024-05-14
Publication Date
2026-05-08

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing swimming pool skimmers face challenges with inaccurate and unreliable mechanical water level sensors, which are prone to blockages and require frequent maintenance, and electronic sensors are difficult to install in existing pools.

Method used

A skimmer with integrated capacitive effect sensors and wireless communication, measuring water level directly within the tubular section, allowing for precise and automatic regulation of water levels using a control system with solenoid valves.

Benefits of technology

Provides accurate and reliable water level measurement and regulation, enhancing skimmer efficiency by maintaining optimal water levels, reducing debris accumulation, and minimizing pump damage, while being easy to install in new or renovated pools.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.
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Abstract

The present invention relates to a skimmer for a swimming pool, commonly called a "skimmer," containing means for measuring the water level. The skimmer comprises a body with two right-angled tubular sections: - an upstream tubular section, forming a slit and defining a passage (111a) in which a flap (5), also called a "non-return valve," is installed. This flap (5) has a lower rim (5c) that is assembled with said upstream tubular section by means of pivot means (7) defining a horizontal axis of rotation; and - a downstream tubular section (112), in fluidic communication with said upstream tubular section, intended to contain a basket and to be connected to suction means. And, said upstream tubular section contains measuring means (2) designed to measure the water level in said swimming pool. Figure for the abstract: 2
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Description

Title of the invention: Skimmer for a swimming pool basin, containing means for measuring the water level. Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of skimmers for swimming pool basins, containing means for measuring the water level in said swimming pool basin. State of the art

[0002] Swimming pool filtration systems are essential for maintaining water quality by removing physical and chemical impurities.

[0003] An essential component of these systems is the skimmer, commonly called a "skimmer", which plays a crucial role in preventing contamination and reducing floating debris.

[0004] Skimmers are designed to suck water from the surface of the pool, where most debris and contaminants tend to accumulate, before they sink.

[0005] By filtering the surface water, skimmers help to keep the water clear and reduce the load on the main filtration system (by reducing the infiltration of debris and contaminants into the main filtration system).

[0006] In this context, water level management is crucial for the efficiency of these skimmers.

[0007] Indeed, a water level that is too low can prevent the skimmers from functioning properly, which leads to an accumulation of debris and a decrease in water quality.

[0008] Conversely, too high a level can minimize the efficiency of skimmers by reducing their ability to collect debris on the surface.

[0009] To control this regulation, the pool can be equipped with water level sensors.

[0010] Mechanical sensors, although simple and proven, suffer from limitations in terms of accuracy and reliability. Their reliance on floating mechanisms makes them vulnerable to blockages and requires frequent maintenance to prevent failures. Furthermore, they are poorly suited for installation on existing swimming pools.

[0011] Electronic sensors offer greater precision through the use of electronic sensors that control the opening and closing of solenoid valves.

[0012] However, the complexity of installing such sensors can represent significant barriers, especially when adapting to existing swimming pools. Presentation of the invention

[0013] In order to remedy the aforementioned drawback of the prior art, the present invention proposes a skimmer for a swimming pool basin, commonly called a "skimmer", containing means for measuring the water level.

[0014] This skimmer comprises a body having two right-angled tubular sections:

[0015] - an upstream tubular section, forming a loop and defining a passage in into which a flap, also called a "non-return valve", is installed.

[0016] which flap comprises a lower edge which is assembled with said upstream tubular section by means of pivot means defining a horizontal axis of rotation, and

[0017] - a downstream tubular section, in fluidic communication with said tubular section upstream, intended to contain a basket and to be connected to suction means.

[0018] And, according to the invention, said upstream tubular section contains measuring means which are designed to measure the water level in said swimming pool basin.

[0019] Such a technical solution is interesting for measuring the water level of a swimming pool, both in new construction and renovation, and for automatically regulating this level (for example by controlling the opening of a filling solenoid valve).

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the passage is defined by:

[0021] - two side walls, defining the width of the passage,

[0022] - a lower wall and an upper wall, defining the height of said passage.

[0023] The flap has two lateral edges.

[0024] And the measuring means are installed, to the extent of play, in a reception space defined laterally by one of the said lateral walls of the passage and by one of the said lateral edges opposite the shutter.

[0025] Other non-limiting and advantageous features of this embodiment according to the invention, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations, are as follows:

[0026] - the flap and the measuring means occupy the entire width of the passage, so that said flap occupies a first part of the width of said passage, preferably more than 50%, preferably more than 75%, preferably so that the flap occupies a width equal to or greater than the width of the downstream tubular section, and the measuring means occupy a second remaining part of the width of said passage, preferably less than 25%;

[0027] - the measuring means extend over at least 50%, preferably 75%, of the height of the passage;

[0028] - the measuring means have a parallelepiped shape which is defined by two lateral faces, defining its width, a lower face and a top face, defining its height, a front face and a back face, defining its depth, in which the width dimension is less than the height dimension.

[0029] Other non-limiting and advantageous features of the product according to the invention, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations, are as follows:

[0030] - the measuring means include an on-board power source and are implanted in said upstream tubular section by means of removable assembly means, in particular for the replacement of said on-board energy source;

[0031] - said upstream tubular section comprises an interface, for example a bar chassis, comprising a first location receiving said measuring means, pivot means receiving the flap and possibly assembly means, adapted to an assembly of said interface on said upstream tubular section, for example on a rotation element of said upstream tubular section intended to receive a flap;

[0032] - the measuring means comprise a parallelepiped-shaped casing comprising a perforated front panel and a side panel designed to align with a lateral edge of the shutter,

[0033] - the measuring means include means of communication, preferably wireless communication methods;

[0034] - the measuring means include for example a capacitive effect sensor.

[0035] The present invention further relates to a control system for a swimming pool basin, which control system comprises:

[0036] - at least one skimmer according to the invention,

[0037] - means for adjusting the water level, preferably at least one valve filling and / or at least one drain valve,

[0038] - control means, for controlling said water level control means taking into account the data collected by said measurement means.

[0039] The present invention also relates to an interface, for example a chassis bar, for a swimming pool basin skimmer.

[0040] This interface includes:

[0041] - a first location receiving measuring means, designed to measure the water level in said swimming pool basin and comprising, for example, a parallelepiped-shaped casing having a perforated front wall and a side wall intended to be positioned opposite a lateral edge of the cover,

[0042] - pivot means receiving a flap, and

[0043] - assembly means, adapted to assembling said interface onto a upstream tubular section of said skimmer, for example on a rotating member of said upstream tubular section intended to receive a flap.

[0044] Of course, the different features, variants and embodiments of the invention can be combined with each other in various ways insofar as they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. Detailed description of the invention

[0045] In addition, various other features of the invention become apparent from the attached description made with reference to the drawings which illustrate non-limiting embodiments of the invention and where:

[0046] [Fig-1] is a general and cross-sectional view of a skimmer according to the invention;

[0047] [Fig.2] is a partial and enlarged view of the skimmer according to [Fig.1], illustrating the measuring means and the flap which are brought into the upstream tubular section;

[0048] [Fig.3] is a view located within the upstream tubular section, showing the added measuring means and interface (the flap being disassembled);

[0049] [Fig.4] is an isolated and perspective view of the interface carrying the measuring means and the flap;

[0050] [Fig.5] is yet another isolated and perspective view of the interface carrying the measuring means and the flap;

[0051] [Fig.6] is yet another isolated and perspective view of an alternative embodiment in which the measuring means and the shutter are mounted without a chassis bar;

[0052] [Fig.7] is yet another isolated and perspective view of a variant embodiment in which the measuring means are devoid of a parallelepiped envelope;

[0053] [Fig.8] is yet another isolated and perspective view of a variant embodiment in which the measuring means and the shutter are mounted without a frame bar or parallelepiped envelope;

[0054] [Fig.9] is a schematic view of the measurement and control means;

[0055] [Fig. 10] is a schematic view of a swimming pool basin equipped with a skimmer according to the invention.

[0056] It should be noted that, in these figures, the structural and / or functional elements common to the different variants may have the same references.

[0057] In general, the present invention thus relates to a skimmer 1, for a swimming pool basin B ([Fig. 10]), containing measuring means 2 which are designed to measure the water level in this swimming pool basin.

[0058] By "water level" we advantageously mean the height of the water contained in the pool basin, measured at the level of the water surface.

[0059] This water level parameter is important for the optimal operation of the filtration system, and in particular of this skimmer 1.

[0060] Indeed, the water level must advantageously be maintained at an optimal height to allow the skimmers to effectively filter debris from the surface. Typically, this level is ideally located at approximately one-third of the way up, or halfway up, a skimmer opening.

[0061] Similarly, if the water level falls below a lower threshold, the skimmer 1 may be exposed to air, which can damage the pool pump through cavitation. Conversely, a level that is too high can reduce the efficiency of the skimmers by preventing debris from floating towards them.

[0062] Now, the technical solution according to the invention allows optimal measurement of the water level of a swimming pool and, advantageously, automatic regulation of this level.

[0063] By "filtration system", advantageously means all the devices and processes designed to clean and maintain the quality of the water in a swimming pool by removing physical, chemical and biological impurities.

[0064] The main components in such a filtration system S ([Fig. 10]) are advantageously:

[0065] - the skimmer 1, installed on the walls which draw in surface water to filter the floating debris,

[0066] - a SI pool pump, which circulates water through the filtration system and distributes chemical products

[0067] - S2 filters, water cleaning tools, for removing fine particles from dirt and debris,

[0068] - the S3 return jets, which reintroduce the filtered water into the pool, helping to a uniform distribution of chemicals,

[0069] - the S4 chemical treatment system, comprising chlorine dispensers, bromine or other disinfectants to maintain water quality,

[0070] - the S5 control means, for regulating the operation of the equipment of the pool. Skimmer

[0071] The skimmer 1, commonly called a "skimmer", advantageously corresponds to the filtration device used in swimming pool systems to remove debris and impurities from the water surface.

[0072] It is generally installed at the level of the pool wall and works by creating a current that attracts surface water (and the floating contaminants it contains) towards a collection basket.

[0073] This collection basket captures large debris such as leaves, insects and other floating particles, before the water passes through the main filtration system of the pool.

[0074] The skimmer is essential for maintaining water cleanliness and reducing the load on the filtration system, thus allowing for greater efficiency and a longer service life for the filtration system. By keeping the water surface free of debris, the skimmer also helps prevent the spread of microorganisms and algae, contributing to better water quality and a more enjoyable swimming experience.

[0075] In addition, the skimmer facilitates pool maintenance by allowing easy cleaning of accumulated debris through simplified access to a collection basket.

[0076] Generally speaking, a skimmer is designed to work efficiently when the water level is maintained within a specific range, which underlines the importance of precise and reliable water level regulation.

[0077] In particular, the skimmer 1 comprises a body 11 having two right-angled tubular sections in fluidic communication and in series:

[0078] - an upstream tubular section 111, advantageously oriented horizontally, intended to contain a section 5, and

[0079] - a downstream tubular section 112, advantageously oriented vertically, intended to contain a basket 6 and be connected to suction means (not shown).

[0080] The upstream tubular section 111 forms a loophole, presenting for example a constant rectangular section or flared towards the basin.

[0081] This upstream tubular section 111 defines a passage 111a in which the flap 5 is implanted.

[0082] Passage 111a is defined by a ring of walls (advantageously of rectangular cross-section), namely:

[0083] - two side walls 111b, defining the width of the passage 11la,

[0084] - a lower wall 11 and an upper wall 11, defining the height of this passage 111a.

[0085] Furthermore, by "flap" or "non-return valve" we advantageously mean a mechanical device located inside the upstream tubular section 111, designed to prevent the return to the pool of water and captured debris, once they have been sucked into the skimmer.

[0086] This flap 5 generally operates on a simple principle of gravity and water pressure:

[0087] - it opens in an inclined or horizontal position, to allow water to pass towards the downstream tubular section 112, when the pool pump is activated, and

[0088] - it closes automatically in a vertical position when the pump is turned off, to block the reverse path.

[0089] The flap 5 advantageously has a rectangular outline, comprising a border:

[0090] - two lateral borders 5b, defining the width of the flap 5,

[0091] - a lower border 5c and an upper border 5d, defining the height of the Part 5.

[0092] In particular, the lower edge 5c of the flap 5 is advantageously assembled with the upstream tubular section 111 by means of pivot means 7 defining a horizontal axis of rotation.

[0093] In particular, the flap 5 is movable in rotation between two end-of-travel positions:

[0094] - a raised, vertical configuration, obstructing the passage 11a, and

[0095] - a retractable configuration, opposite the lower wall 11.

[0096] Generally and preferably, the upstream tubular section 111 includes at least one rotating element 11 Ir (illustrated schematically in [Fig.3]), for example at least one cylindrical section, which is intended to receive a "nominal" flap. Measurement methods

[0097] According to the invention, the upstream tubular section 111 contains the measuring means 2 which are designed to measure the water level in the swimming pool basin.

[0098] Such an arrangement of the measuring means 2 offers various advantages, in particular:

[0099] - by measuring the water level directly within the upstream tubular section 111, to provide accurate data to ensure that skimmer 1, and its flap 5, operate at their maximum efficiency,

[0100] - monitor and adjust the water level before it becomes critical for the pump from the swimming pool,

[0101] - rapidly detect changes in water level caused by events external factors such as heavy rain or intensive pool use; a rapid response allows the water level to be adjusted proactively to maintain the efficiency of the filtration system.

[0102] According to a preferred and illustrated embodiment, the measuring means 2 are installed, within clearance, in a reception space E defined laterally by:

[0103] - one of the side walls 111b of passage 11la, and

[0104] - one of the lateral edges 5b of flap 5, opposite.

[0105] In other words, one of the side edges 5b of the flap 5 is located opposite and at a distance from one of the side walls 111b of the passage 111a, to delimit together the reception space E suitable for the positioning of the measuring means 2.

[0106] In other words, the measuring means 2 are advantageously interposed between one of the lateral edges 5b of the flap 5 and one of the lateral walls 111b of the passage 111a.

[0107] The width dimension of this flap 5 is thus less than the width dimension of a "nominal" flap which is brought into the passage 11 la and which is intended to extend between the two lateral walls 111b of the passage 11 la.

[0108] Preferably, this reception area E extends over the entire height of the passage 111a (defined by the lower wall 11 le and the upper wall 11 Id).

[0109] In this preferred embodiment, the flap 5 and the measuring means 2 advantageously occupy the entire width of the passage 11la, so that:

[0110] - the flap 5 occupies part of the width of the passage 11, preferably more than 50%, preferably even more than 75% of this passage width 11 la, and

[0111] - the measuring means 2 occupy a remaining part of the width of passage 11 la, preferably less than 25% of this width of passage 111a.

[0112] Preferably, it is advantageous that the suction area of ​​the upstream tubular section 111 be equal to or greater than the suction area of ​​the downstream tubular section 112.

[0113] Still in this preferred embodiment, the measuring means 2 extend over at least 50%, preferably at least 75%, or even over the entire height, of the passage 111a.

[0114] Preferably, the height of the measuring means 2 is identical to, or even greater than, the height of the flap 5 (and in particular of its upper edge 5d) in the raised configuration.

[0115] For optimal integration, the measuring means 2 advantageously have a parallelepiped shape, for example in the form of a parallelepiped housing (visible in [Fig.5]).

[0116] The measuring means 2 are thus delimited by a set of faces, namely:

[0117] - two lateral faces 211, defining its width,

[0118] - a lower face 212 and an upper face 213, defining its height,

[0119] -a front face 214 and a rear face 215, defining its depth.

[0120] And this width dimension is less than its height dimension, or even its dimension in depth.

[0121] Generally, as schematically illustrated in [Fig.9], the measuring means 2 comprise communication means 25, preferably in the form of wireless communication means 25.

[0122] By "wireless communication means", advantageously means a module which allows the exchange of data by the measuring means 2 with other components of the control system, without requiring physical connections such as cables or wires.

[0123] Among wireless communication technologies, we can mention in particular Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, LoRa and Sigfox.

[0124] In general terms, the measuring means 2 include, for example, a capacitive effect sensor, also called a "capacitive sensor", advantageously arranged along its front face 214 which preferably extends along a vertical axis.

[0125] Such a sensor, classic in itself, works on the principle of capacitive measurement, similar to the "Touchsense" technology used in capacitive touch screens.

[0126] The capacitive sensor advantageously measures the variation in electrical capacitance between an electrode and the earth's electrical potential. In the context of a swimming pool, the earth's electrical potential is generally that of the pool water.

[0127] Such a measurement method is particularly interesting because it is less dependent on the conductivity of the water compared to traditional sensors. This allows the sensor to operate effectively regardless of variations in salinity or water purity.

[0128] Furthermore, many modern processors integrate capacitive measurement functionalities directly into their circuits, thereby reducing the hardware complexity and power consumption of water level measurement systems. This is particularly advantageous for self-powered devices or those using wireless communications.

[0129] The use of capacitive sensors also allows for a significant reduction in energy consumption, which is crucial for systems powered by batteries or renewable sources (such as solar panels). This characteristic makes the sensor ideal for remote installations or applications where access to a power supply is limited.

[0130] Capacitive effect sensors offer high accuracy in measuring water level. They are capable of detecting small level variations, which is essential for the precise control of automatic filling systems and for ensuring the proper functioning of swimming pool equipment.

[0131] Capacitive sensors are less subject to wear or damage caused by physical elements, such as debris in water, because they have no moving parts and their operation does not depend on physical contact with water.

[0132] In general, the measurement means 2 could be based on other technologies, for example resistive or conductimetric.

[0133] For ease of implementation, particularly in renovation, the measuring means 2 advantageously include an on-board power source (not shown), for example in the form of a rechargeable battery or a removable battery.

[0134] According to another advantageous feature, the measuring means 2 are advantageously implanted in the upstream tubular section 111 by means of removable assembly means 81, for example by sliding within a housing, in particular to allow the replacement of said on-board power source.

[0135] According to a preferred embodiment, the measuring means 2 and the pivot means 7 are carried by an interface 8 within the upstream tubular section 111.

[0136] The interface 8 is advantageously made in a related or monobloc manner with the upstream tubular section 111.

[0137] Interface 8 thus comprises:

[0138] - a first location 81, advantageously intended to fill the location reception E and intended to receive the measuring means 2 (advantageously in a removable manner, thus forming removable assembly means),

[0139] - the pivot means 7 receiving the flap 5, and possibly

[0140] - assembly means 82, adapted for assembling the interface 8 on the upstream tubular section 111.

[0141] The first location 81 is for example provided at one end of the interface 8.

[0142] Generally, the measuring means 2 may comprise a parallelepiped-shaped envelope 813 comprising:

[0143] - a front wall 811, possibly perforated, and

[0144] - a side wall 812 intended to be opposite one of the side edges 5a of part 5.

[0145] The measuring means 2, with the side wall 812, then correspond, to the extent of play, to the reception space E.

[0146] The depth of the side wall 812 is advantageously equal to, or even greater than, the depth dimension of the flap 5 in retracted configuration.

[0147] In general, the assembly means 82 are advantageously adapted to a securing of the interface 8 with a rotating member 11 Ir of the upstream tubular section 111 (illustrated schematically on [Fig.3]), intended to receive a "nominal" flap.

[0148] This technical solution allows integration of the interface 8 on a rotating member 11 Ir of the upstream tubular section 111.

[0149] A first embodiment is illustrated in figures 4 and 5.

[0150] In this embodiment, the interface 8 consists of a chassis bar, extending transversely over the width of the lower wall 11.

[0151] At the first location 81, the measuring means 2 comprise a parallelepiped-shaped envelope 813 comprising:

[0152] - the front wall 811, possibly perforated, and

[0153] - the side wall 812 intended to be opposite one of the side edges 5a of the Part 5.

[0154] This first location 81 is for example provided at one end of the interface 8.

[0155] The pivot means 7 are advantageously superimposed on the interface 8.

[0156] These pivot means 7 are assembled with the lower edge 5c of the flap 5, defining a horizontal axis of rotation.

[0157] The assembly means 82 are for example adapted to an assembly of the interface 8 on a rotating member 11 Ir of the upstream tubular section 111 (illustrated schematically on [Fig.3]), intended to receive a "nominal" flap.

[0158] These assembly means 82 consist for example of elastic interlocking means, underlying the interface 8, for example in the shape of an elastically deformable C.

[0159] This technical solution allows integration of the interface 8 on a rotating element 11 Ir of the upstream tubular section 111.

[0160] A second embodiment is illustrated in [Fig.6].

[0161] In this embodiment, the interface 8 is devoid of the chassis bar.

[0162] Here again, at the level of the first location 81, the measuring means 2 comprise the parallelepiped envelope 813 comprising:

[0163] - the front wall 811, possibly perforated, and

[0164] - the side wall 812 intended to be opposite one of the side edges 5a of the Part 5.

[0165] The pivot means 7 are formed:

[0166] - on one side, by the parallelepiped envelope 813 of the first location 81, and

[0167] - on the second side, a rotating element 11 Ir of the upstream tubular section 111 (illustrated schematically on [Fig.3]), intended to receive a "nominal" flap.

[0168] A third embodiment is illustrated in [Fig.7].

[0169] In this embodiment, the interface 8 consists of a chassis bar, extending transversely over the width of the lower wall 11.

[0170] The first location 81 is here devoid of parallelepiped envelope 813: the measuring means 2 cooperate directly with the chassis bar-shaped interface 8.

[0171] The measuring means 2 then correspond, to the extent of play, to the reception space E.

[0172] This first location 81 is for example provided at one end of the interface 8.

[0173] The pivot means 7 are advantageously superimposed on the interface 8.

[0174] These pivot means 7 are assembled with the lower edge 5c of the flap 5, defining a horizontal axis of rotation.

[0175] The assembly means 82 are for example adapted to an assembly of the interface 8 on a rotating member 11 Ir of the upstream tubular section 111 (illustrated schematically on [Fig.3]), intended to receive a "nominal" flap.

[0176] These assembly means 82 consist for example of elastic interlocking means, underlying the interface 8, for example in the shape of an elastically deformable C.

[0177] A fourth embodiment is illustrated in [Fig.8].

[0178] In this embodiment, the interface 8 is devoid of the chassis bar or the parallelepiped envelope 813.

[0179] The first location 81 is devoid of parallelepiped envelope 813: the measuring means 2 cooperate directly with the interface 8.

[0180] The measuring means 2 then correspond, to the extent of play, to the reception space E.

[0181] The pivot means 7 are formed:

[0182] - on the first side, by means of measurement 2, and

[0183] - on the second side, a rotating element 11 Ir of the upstream tubular section 111 (illustrated schematically in [Fig. 3]), designed to receive a "nominal" flap. Control system

[0184] The present invention further relates to a control system for a swimming pool basin, illustrated schematically and partially in [Fig.9].

[0185] This control system includes:

[0186] - at least one skimmer 1 according to the invention, incorporating measuring means 2,

[0187] - means for adjusting the water level 9, preferably in the form of at least a solenoid valve, for example at least one filling valve 91 and / or at least one draining valve 92, and

[0188] - control means 10, for controlling said level adjustment means water 9 taking into account the data collected by the measuring means 2.

[0189] The control means 10, or even the means for adjusting the water level 9, are for example located in the technical room of the swimming pool.

[0190] The control means 10 advantageously include:

[0191] - means of communication 101, for communication with the means of measure 2, for example according to LoRa technology,

[0192] - an interface 102, for configuring the control means 10 and for the information visualization,

[0193] - computing means 103 (intelligence), for example in the form of a microcontroller in which at least one computer program is stored, to determine the control of the water level adjustment means 9 taking into account the data collected by the measuring means 2, and

[0194] - control means 104, for controlling the level adjustment means water 9, taking into account instructions issued by the calculation means 103.

[0195] The control means 10 advantageously take the form of at least one box containing electronic components, responsible for controlling the filling or emptying of the pool.

[0196] The control means 10 can be:

[0197] - grouped in a single casing, or

[0198] - be distributed in several boxes, communicating for example via radio relays.

[0199] The control means 10 may include additional communication means 105, for example according to Zigbee technology, for communication between several nearby boxes or with at least one relay extension (not shown).

[0200] By way of non-limiting agreement, various configuration examples can be considered:

[0201] - the information and configuration can be grouped within a single housing,

[0202] - the information and configuration can be carried out on at least two nearby boxes

[0203] - the control means 104 are located in a first housing and the means of Calculation 103 is located in a second box. Water level regulation

[0204] In practice, the measuring means 2 advantageously determine continuously the water level in this swimming pool basin.

[0205] As discussed previously, the technical solution according to the invention allows for optimal measurement of the pool water level and, advantageously, automatic regulation of this level.

[0206] In this regard, the data collected are advantageously transmitted to control means 10 in order to ensure automatic control of the filling level of the swimming pool basin.

[0207] If the water level falls below a lower threshold, the control means 10 advantageously ensure the opening of a filling valve 91.

[0208] If the water level rises above a higher threshold, the control means 10 advantageously ensure the opening of a drain valve 92.

[0209] Of course, various other modifications can be made to the invention within the scope of the annexed claims.

Claims

Demands

1. A skimmer for a swimming pool, commonly called a "skimmer", comprising a body (11) having two right-angled tubular sections: - an upstream tubular section (111), forming a slit and defining a passage (111a) in which a flap (5), also called a "non-return valve", is installed, which flap (5) has a lower rim (5c) which is assembled with said upstream tubular section (111) by means of pivot means (7) defining a horizontal axis of rotation, and - a downstream tubular section (112), in fluidic communication with said upstream tubular section (111), intended to contain a basket (6) and to be connected to suction means, which upstream tubular section (111) contains measuring means (2) which are designed to measure the water level in said swimming pool, characterized in that the passage (111a) is defined by: - ​​two lateral walls (111b), defining the width of said passage (Hla),- a lower wall (111c) and an upper wall (111d), defining the height of said passage (11la), in that the flap (5) has two lateral edges (5b), and in that the measuring means (2) are located, within clearance, in a reception space (E) defined laterally by one of said lateral walls (111b) of the passage (11la) and by one of said lateral edges (5b) opposite the flap (5).

2. Skimmer according to claim 1, characterized in that the flap (5) and the measuring means (2) occupy the entire width of the passage (111a), such that: - said flap (5) occupies a first part of the width of said passage (11a), preferably more than 50%, preferably more than 75%, preferably so that the flap (5) occupies a width equal to or greater than the width of the downstream tubular section (112), and - the measuring means (2) occupy a second, remaining part of the width of said passage (11a), preferably less than 25%.

3. Skimmer according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the measuring means (2) extend over at least 50%, preferably 75%, of the height of the passage (11 la).

4. Skimmer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the measuring means (2) have a parallelepiped shape which is defined by: - ​​two lateral faces (211), defining its width, - a lower face (212) and an upper face (213), defining its height, - a front face (214) and a rear face (215), defining its depth, which dimension in width is less than the dimension in height.

5. Skimmer according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the measuring means (2) comprise an on-board power source and are implanted in said upstream tubular section (111) by means of removable assembly means (81), in particular for the replacement of said on-board power source.

6. Skimmer according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that said upstream tubular section (111) has an interface (8) comprising: - a first location (81) receiving said measuring means (2), advantageously forming said removable assembly means (81), - said pivot means (7) receiving the flap (5), and optionally - assembly means (82), adapted for an assembly of said interface (8) on said upstream tubular section (111), for example on a rotating member (11 Ir) of said upstream tubular section (111) intended to receive a "nominal" flap.

7. Skimmer according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the measuring means (2) comprise communication means (25), preferably wireless communication means (25).

8. Skimmer according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the measuring means (2) comprise a capacitive effect sensor.

9. A control system for a swimming pool basin, which control system comprises: - at least one skimmer (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, - means for adjusting the water level (9), preferably at least one filling valve (91) and / or at least one draining valve (92), - control means (10), for controlling said water level control means (9) taking into account the data collected by said measuring means (2).