Pool cover bar kit

Abstract

Pool cover bar forming kit. Pool cover bar forming kit comprising at least two bar elements (170), at least partially hollow, each bar element (170) comprising at least one pair of longitudinal grooves (210). Each groove is suitable for receiving a respective portion of a luff (19) of a cover element. The kit includes at least one connection (30) comprising an insert that is at least partially profiled (27). This insert (27) engages with at least one of the respective bar elements (170), on an end portion (32) of that element. The profiled insert (27) has at least one longitudinal slot (34) that divides the profiled insert (27) into two corresponding wings (36). Each wing (36) has a shape corresponding at least partially to the end portion of the first bar element (170) and a notch (31) adapted to a respective longitudinal groove (210).The connection (30) further includes at least one spreader which is inserted into the longitudinal slot (34) of the profiled insert (27) and is actuated so as to spread the corresponding wings (36) apart from each other, at least in the vicinity of the notches (31), until the profiled insert (27) is engaged with the first respective bar element (170). (Fig. 6).

Description

Title of the invention: Pool cover bar forming kit

[0001] The invention relates to the field of pool covers, particularly swimming pool covers. More specifically, the invention relates to a kit for forming a pool cover bar and to a kit for forming a pool cover.

[0002] Swimming pools, particularly private ones, are equipped with safety devices that prevent people from accidentally falling into the pool when it is not in use, or at least reduce the risk of serious consequences should such a fall occur. These devices also aim to prevent children from accessing the pool unaccompanied. These safety devices may be made mandatory, notably by law. They may also be subject to standards.

[0003] The protective devices in question are of various types. For example, devices comprising barriers or shelters, which prohibit access to the area around the pool, may be used. As an alternative, or in addition, devices comprising one or more fall detectors, possibly capable of triggering an audible or other alarm signal, may also be used.

[0004] Nowadays, protective devices including a cover adapted to the pool are quite widely used and are put in place when the pool is not in use. The cover also helps to limit evaporation of the pool water and to maintain its cleanliness by preventing external pollution such as debris, insects, plants, and other contaminants. The cover also plays a role in the thermal insulation of the pool water by reducing heat loss. Depending on the design, the cover can also improve the efficiency of natural heating by solar radiation.

[0005] The covers in question can be rigid or semi-rigid, for example, in the form of a shutter made of slats hinged to one another. These covers prove to be very effective. However, they are rather difficult to handle, unless specific devices are used for their installation and removal, such as rollers, possibly motorized. In the latter case, however, the protective devices prove expensive, sometimes bulky, and require modifications to the area around the pool. In addition, they require an electrical power supply.

[0006] Covers can also be flexible, typically in the form of a single piece of tarpaulin, made up of tarpaulin elements welded together, and whose shape and dimensions correspond to the pool. Such a cover rests on the edge of the pool by means of transverse bars attached to the piece of tarpaulin. The cover is stretched over the pool and fastened to the deck, around its perimeter. A protective system using a flexible cover is generally less expensive and less bulky than one based on a rigid or semi-rigid cover. Its installation is much simpler, especially during renovations, since it requires virtually no modifications to the pool or its surroundings. However, if any part of the cover is damaged, it generally needs to be replaced entirely, unlike a rigid or semi-rigid cover where the slats can usually be replaced individually.

[0007] Some flexible covers are formed from a plurality of elementary tarpaulin pieces joined together by means of transverse bars. These covers, like those made from a single piece of tarpaulin, are adapted to the dimensions of the pool for which they are intended. Each tarpaulin piece is attached to two respective bars, generally by means of a system of ropes, attached to the longitudinal edges of the tarpaulin piece, and longitudinal grooves, formed in the bars, each of which receives a respective rope.

[0008] These flexible covers are advantageously supplied in kit form. A kit typically includes the individual pieces of cover and bar elements designed to be joined together via connectors to form crossbars. Such kits facilitate the storage and transport of the covers.

[0009] Generally, the aim is to easily assemble the bar elements one on top of the other to form a cover bar. It is also desirable that the bars be able to be disassembled. The mutual assembly of the bar elements must be compatible with the ropes of the tarpaulin pieces. Each bar element includes longitudinal grooves which, after assembly, form two longitudinal bar grooves suitable for receiving the ropes of the tarpaulin pieces.

[0010] The slatted pool cover known as the "Coverkit" comprises a plurality of tarpaulin pieces joined together by means of cover bars. Each of these cover bars comprises bar elements assembled together to form the cover bar. The bar elements are joined to each other by means of connectors, each of which comprises a profiled insert that engages with end portions of two bar elements and is held therein by screws.

[0011] This existing cover is generally satisfactory. However, the Applicant has sought to improve it, particularly with regard to its assembly and disassembly, its resistance, especially in the event of extreme stresses, such as a fall, and its lifespan. Indeed, the screws can The components may be subjected to significant stress and, over time, play may develop in the assembly. Failure of the assembly due to shearing of the screws may occur.

[0012] Other ways of joining the elements of a pool cover bar are known. For example, there are connections comprising an external sleeve, inserted between two adjacent elements of the bar. Such an external sleeve has the disadvantage of being bulky. There are also connections comprising crimped internal sleeves. However, such connections make the bar impossible to disassemble and require precise adjustment of the bar elements.

[0013] In this context, a kit is proposed for forming a pool cover bar. This kit comprises at least two bar elements, at least partially hollow. Each bar element includes at least one pair of longitudinal grooves. Each groove is suitable for receiving a respective portion of a luff of a cover element. This kit includes at least one connection comprising an insert that is at least partially profiled. This insert engages with at least one of the respective bar elements, on an end portion of that element. The profiled insert has at least one longitudinal slot that divides the profiled insert into two corresponding wings. Each wing has a shape corresponding at least in part to the end portion of the first bar element and a notch adapted to a respective longitudinal groove.The connection further includes at least one spreader which is inserted into the longitudinal slot of the profiled insert and is actuated so as to spread the corresponding wings apart from each other, at least in the vicinity of the notches, until the profiled insert is engaged with the first respective bar element.

[0014] Thus, this kit allows for the rigid, quick, and reversible assembly of roof bars, adapted for mounting a roof. The risk of damage to the roof bar, particularly near the assembly joints, is reduced. Two bar elements are linked to each other via the insert, to which these bar elements are attached by reducing clearance. Each bar element is then held onto the insert by adhesion. This results in connections between bar elements that are less prone to fatigue.

[0015] Optional features of the invention, complementary or alternative, are stated below: - each wing also has a shape corresponding at least in part to the end portion of a second bar element and the notch is adapted to the longitudinal groove of this second bar element, while the spreader is actuated until the profiled insert is also engaged with the respective second bar element; - the spreader comprises at least one spreader element per bar element, the spreader element being mounted in a longitudinal slot of the profiled insert in the vicinity of the end portion of a respective bar element; - the spacer is mounted on the profiled insert at the junction of two bar elements so as to simultaneously hold the two bar elements; - once the profiled insert is engaged with at least the first bar element, the spreader can be disengaged until the profiled insert is out of engagement with the first bar element; - the spreader includes at least one active surface which is inserted into the longitudinal slot and a rotating member capable of actuating the active surface, the active surface being inserted by translation into the longitudinal slot; - the spreader includes at least one screw as a spreading element, the screw screwing into the longitudinal slot, and spreading the wings apart as it enters the longitudinal slot; - the profiled insert is made at least partly of aluminium or aluminium alloy; - the bar element includes at least one opening provided on its end portion, the opening being suitable for being passed through by at least part of the spreader or for providing access to the spreader for the purpose of actuation; - the notches are arranged symmetrically to each other relative to a median plane of the insert, while the longitudinal slot extends at least partly into this median plane; - each notch has a corresponding shape with a respective longitudinal groove of the bar element; - each wing of the profiled insert has at least one contact zone with the bar element, the profiled insert coming into contact with the first respective bar element at least partly through this contact zone; - the profiled insert includes a junction zone between the wings, this junction zone being shaped so as to come into contact with the bar element when the profiled insert is engaged with the first bar element.

[0016] A pool cover kit is also offered. This kit includes at least one kit for forming a pool cover bar and at least one cover element. The cover element includes at least two ropes. These ropes are each suitable for mounting in a respective longitudinal groove of a bar element.

[0017] Other features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent upon reading the following detailed description, examples of embodiments, and drawings in which: - Fig. 1 is a top view of a basin cover according to the invention; - [Fig.2] is a detailed perspective view of a basin cover according to the invention; - [Fig.3] shows an assembly step of the invention kit; - [Fig.4] shows a cross-sectional view of the invention kit during an assembly step; - [Fig.5] is analogous to [Fig.4] and shows another assembly step of the kit of the invention; - [Fig.6] is analogous to [Fig.4] and shows another assembly step of the kit of the invention; - [Fig.7] shows a detailed cross-sectional view of an assembled cover; - Fig. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the invention kit during a disassembly step; - [Fig.9] is analogous to [Fig.7] according to another embodiment.

[0018] The drawings and description below contain, essentially, elements of a definite nature. They may therefore not only serve to better understand the present invention, but also contribute to its definition, if necessary.

[0019] Functionally analogous elements bear identical reference numbers.

[0020] Figure 1 shows a basin 1, for example, of a private swimming pool. The outline of basin 1 is shown as a dashed line. Basin 1 may be partially or entirely buried. For example, the upper parts of basin 1 may be approximately at ground level. Typically, basin 1 is surrounded by a perimeter wall, which supports a coping (not shown). A deck may also be created around the perimeter of basin 1, beyond the coping. The outline of basin 1 is generally rectangular. The basin may have various shapes, for example, with a rounded end.

[0021] The pool 1 is equipped with a protective device comprising a flexible, slatted cover 3. The cover 3 is generally rectangular in shape. The cover 3 comprises similar, generally rectangular, tarpaulin pieces 5 and connecting bars 11, through which the tarpaulin pieces 5 are joined to one another along their longitudinal edges. In this respect, the cover 3 differs from a conventional slatted cover, which comprises an assembly of several tarpaulin pieces welded together and having openings through which transverse bars are inserted.

[0022] The tarpaulin pieces 5 may have dimensions close to each other. Generally, the tarpaulin pieces 5 have the same length. Some at least of the tarpaulin pieces 5 may have a different width from the others. For example, in [Fig. 1], the rightmost tarpaulin piece 5 is significantly narrower than the other tarpaulin pieces 5.

[0023] Basin 1 of [Fig. 1] extends, for example, approximately 7 meters long by approximately 4 meters wide. These dimensions are among the most common, at least in the case of a private swimming pool, and in countries where the metric system is commonly used.

[0024] The cover 3 typically extends over approximately 7.5 meters in length and approximately 4.5 meters in width. In other words, the dimensions of the cover 3 exceed those of the basin 1 by approximately 50 centimeters. The cover 3 can be positioned over the basin 1 so as to extend 25 centimeters beyond its perimeter on each side.

[0025] The cover 3 is formed here from four pieces of tarpaulin 5, or cover elements. Each of these pieces 5 has a length adapted to the width of the basin 1, namely 4.5 meters, and a variable width. The sum of the widths of the pieces of tarpaulin 5 is adapted to the length of the basin 1.

[0026] The connecting bars 11 are each made from a respective section of profile. The connecting bars 11 are similar to one another. The connecting bars 11 have similar profiles. The connecting bars 11 have lengths close to one another. The length of the connecting bars 11 is such that the cover 3 can be stretched over the basin 1 and the ends of the connecting bars 11 can rest on the coping. The connecting bars 11 are significantly shorter than the length of the tarpaulin pieces 5, here approximately 4.35 meters. The cover 3 has three connecting bars 11.

[0027] The cover 3 further includes two other bars, each of which is fixed to a respective end of the assembly formed by the tarpaulin pieces 5 and the joining bars 11. These other bars form the mutually opposed transverse edges of the cover 3.

[0028] One of these bars (on the right of [Fig.1]), called the anchor bar 13, preferably has a length close to the length of the joining bars 11, while the other (on the left of [Fig.1]), called the traction or winding bar 15, has a length substantially greater than the length of the tarpaulin pieces 5 in order to facilitate the winding of the cover 3 around it.

[0029] The anchor bar 13 here has the same shape and length as the connecting bars 11, so that the anchor bar 13 and the connecting bars 11 are interchangeable. The length of the winding bar 15 is such that the cover 3 can be wound around the winding bar 15. For example, the winding bar 15 has a length of approximately 4.7 meters.

[0030] The protective device further includes a set of anchors (not shown) for securing the cover 3 to the basin 1, fixed in the ground, such as hooks, ratchets, and eye bolts, near the basin 1. The protective device It also includes fasteners (not shown), which connect the anchors to the cover 3. In particular, the fasteners connect the anchors to the anchor bar 13 and the winding bar 15, so as to put the cover 3 under tension above the basin 1.

[0031] To form the cover 3, the tarpaulin pieces 5 are assembled together by means of the joining bars 11. This assembly is removable, or reversible: it allows the tarpaulin pieces 5 and the joining bars 11 to be disassembled, in particular to be able to store the cover 3. The tarpaulin pieces 5 are assembled in a substantially parallel manner to each other.

[0032] As illustrated in [Fig.1], the cover 3 can thus result from the assembly of a kit comprising a plurality of tarpaulin pieces 5, a plurality of joining bars 11 through which the tarpaulin pieces 5 are mounted on one another and, where applicable, an anchor bar 13 and a winding bar 15. This kit includes one fewer joining bar 11 than the number of tarpaulin pieces 5.

[0033] Here, at least some of the connecting bars 11, the anchor bar 13, and the winding bar 15 result from the assembly of bar elements together, each in the form of a profile section. Preferably, the kit from which the cover 3 results comprises the corresponding bar elements in an unassembled state.

[0034] These bar elements comprise at least one set of elements of a first type, or first elements 17, analogous to each other. These first elements 17 have the same profile and a first length, here close to 1.45 meters.

[0035] Here, the connecting bars 11 and the anchor bar 13 each comprise at least two mutually assembled first elements 17. Here, these connecting bars 11 are each formed of three mutually assembled first elements 17. Here, the anchor bar 13 is analogous to the connecting bars 11. The anchor bar 13 is formed by the mutual assembly of three first elements 17.

[0036] Here, the bar elements further comprise a pair of elements of a second type, or second elements 18, analogous to each other. These second elements 18 have the same profile and a second length, greater than that of the first elements 17. Here, this second length is approximately 1.625 meters. Preferably, the second elements 18 differ from the first elements 17 primarily in their length. The winding bar 15 is formed by the mutual assembly of a first element 17 and the pair of second elements 18. Alternatively, the winding bar comprises a pair of mutually assembled second elements.

[0037] Reference is made to [Fig.2].

[0038] A piece of tarpaulin 5 may have a pair of hems 23, each extending along a respective transverse edge of that piece. In this figure, only one hem 23 per piece of tarpaulin 5 is visible.

[0039] When the tarpaulin piece 5 is joined to a corresponding tarpaulin piece 5, for example by means of a joining bar 11 similar to the bars described above, its hems 23 are aligned with the hems 23 of the corresponding piece. For example, the hems 23 have a respective width of approximately 7 centimeters.

[0040] The kit from which the cover 3 according to the invention results may further include a pair of straps 25 (the positioning of which is shown in dotted lines in [Fig. 1]). Once these tarpaulin pieces 5 are assembled together, the straps 25 are each threaded into a respective hem 23 of the tarpaulin pieces 5. Each strap 25 then extends along a longitudinal edge of the cover. The straps 25 can be rolled up with the rest of the cover 3.

[0041] Once the cover 3 is placed on the pool, the straps 25 can be tightened to press the longitudinal edges of the cover 3 against the coping. This prevents the tarpaulin pieces 5 of the cover 3 from lifting, thus increasing the safety of the protective device. In particular, it reduces the wind resistance of the cover 3. It also prevents the accumulation of external dirt, thus ensuring the cleanliness of the pool water.

[0042] Each piece of tarpaulin 5 has a pair of ropes 19. The ropes 19 of a piece of tarpaulin 5 each extend along at least a portion of a respective longitudinal edge. Here, the ropes 19 are formed of rods, in particular of generally circular cross-section. The rods can be formed of bungee cord or rope, for example.

[0043] The connecting bar 11 has two longitudinal grooves 21. In particular, these longitudinal grooves 21 may result from joining longitudinal grooves provided on the bar elements constituting the connecting bar 11, such as the first bar elements 17, for example. The longitudinal grooves 21 correspond in shape with the ropes 19 of the tarpaulin pieces 5.

[0044] A connecting bar 11 is assembled to a piece of tarpaulin 5 which is adjacent to it by threading one of the ropes 19 of the piece of tarpaulin into one of its longitudinal grooves 21.

[0045] The kit resulting in the cover 3 may further include a set of plugs (not shown), each of which is mounted on one longitudinal end of the connecting bars 11, once this bar 11 has been assembled to its adjacent tarpaulin pieces 5. The plugs prevent the translation of the ropes 19 in the longitudinal grooves 21. The plugs also protect the edges of the connecting bars 11.

[0046] The length of the connecting bars 11 is such that the length of the longitudinal grooves 21 is substantially equal to the length of the ropes 19. When the plugs are in place, these plugs prevent, or at least greatly limit, any linear movement between the tarpaulin pieces and the joining bars 11. This greatly facilitates the handling of the cover 3.

[0047] Reference is made to [Fig.3].

[0048] A bar element 170, for example a bar element of the first type or of the second type described in relation to [Fig. 1], is made in the form of a longitudinal portion, at least partially hollow, of a profile. This profile includes at least one hollow end portion 32.

[0049] Here, the bar element 170 is made from a section of a hollow profile, in particular a tubular one. The bar element 170 is, for example, made of aluminum alloy. The bar element 170 here has a generally circular cross-section. Here, this cross-section has, for example, an external diameter of approximately 45 millimeters.

[0050] The bar element 170 has a pair of longitudinal grooves 210, each open to the outside and configured so that the element 170 is able to receive, at least partially, one of the longitudinal edges of a piece of tarpaulin 5, such as the tarpaulin pieces described above. Here, the element 170 is able to receive tarpaulin piece ropes. For example, the longitudinal grooves 210 have a generally circular cross-section.

[0051] The bar element 170 may further have, as here, a longitudinal rail 290, disposed between the longitudinal grooves 210 and intended to be positioned downwards when the cover is on the basin 1. Here, the longitudinal grooves 210 are disposed symmetrically with respect to each other relative to a median plane of the bar element 170. The longitudinal rail 290 extends at least partially in this median plane.

[0052] Fig. 3 shows a kit intended to form at least part of a pool cover bar, in particular a bar of the type described in relation to Figures 1 and 2. This kit includes at least two homologous bar elements 170 and at least one connection 30 through which the bar elements 170 are fixedly assembled to each other so as to form a bar of the type of bars described in relation to Figures 1 and 2, or at least a longitudinal portion thereof.

[0053] The connection 30 includes an insert 27, or internal coupling sleeve, configured to engage with each of the two bar elements 170, on a respective end portion 32 of these elements 170. The insert 27 is made in the form of a section of hollow profile. Here, the cross-section of this profile has a shape that generally corresponds to the cross-section of the bar elements 170. The connection 30 further includes at least one spreader that is actuated to activate the connection 30 in order to join the bar elements 170 together.

[0054] The insert 27 has at least one slot 34 which passes through the wall of the hollow profile section and generally extends along the longitudinal direction of the hollow profile section. The slot extends in a straight line. The slot 34 opens both inside and outside the hollow profile section. The slot 34 extends over at least a portion of the hollow profile section.

[0055] The insert 27 has at least one portion of a slot 34 intended to be received in a respective bar element 170.

[0056] Here, the insert 27 has a single slot 34, which extends from one end of the profile section to the other. Alternatively, this slot 34 terminates at a distance from at least one end of the profile section. In yet another embodiment, the insert 27 comprises two slots, each extending only along a respective end portion of the hollow profile section, in particular opening onto that end.

[0057] The spreader is suitable for widening the longitudinal slot 34, here by entering the slot 34. The spreader can include a plurality of spreader elements, here in the form of a set of screws 38. The spreader elements are inserted into the slot 34 so as to open it.

[0058] The kit here includes at least one spacer element per bar element 170, preferably several. The spacer elements are suitable for mounting each in the slot 34 near the end portion 32 of each bar element 170.

[0059] The slot 34 divides the hollow profile section into two corresponding wings 36. Each wing 36 extends along the profile section, in the longitudinal direction of that section. The profile section has a joining zone 40 that connects the wings 36 to each other. This joining zone 40 extends along the profile section, opposite to the slot 34.

[0060] Each wing 36 of the insert 27 has a shape corresponding at least in part to the end portion 32 of a bar element 170. Each wing 36 has a contour of which a portion corresponding to the outside of the hollow profile, or outer contour, is arranged in form cooperation with a respective part of the inside of a bar element 170, at least on the end portion 32, for the purpose of long guidance of the insert 27 in each of the bar elements 170.

[0061] Here, the outer contour of each of the wings 36 of the insert 27 is in correspondence in shape with the interior of a respective portion of each of the bar elements 170.

[0062] Here, each wing 36 has a portion forming a notch 31 open to the outside of the hollow profile and extending along this wing 36, in a straight line and following the longitudinal direction of the insert 27. The notch 31 of each of the wings 36 has a shape corresponding, at least in part, to a respective groove 210 of a bar element 170.

[0063] The outer contour of each wing 36 has a portion corresponding to the interior of the bar element 170. The inner contour of the wings 36 partially delimits at least one hollow interior space of the insert 27. Here, the inner contour of the wings 36 is shaped to correspond with the outer contour. As a result, each wing 36 has a substantially constant thickness.

[0064] The insert 27 is, for example, made of metal, in particular aluminum alloy. Here, the profiled insert 27 has a length between 15 and 40 centimeters, for example approximately 30 centimeters. Here, the cross-section of the profiled insert 27 has an external diameter substantially smaller than the internal diameter of the cross-section of the bar elements 170.

[0065] [Fig.3] illustrates a step in assembling the cover bar, or part thereof, in which the bar elements 170 are joined together by means of the insert 27. This may be the joining together of two bar elements of the first type or of one element of the first type with one element of the second type in the case of the cover of [Fig.1].

[0066] In each case, two bar elements 170 engage with a respective longitudinal portion of the insert 27, as illustrated by the pair of arrows 50. This engagement is such that the longitudinal grooves 210 of one of these bar elements 170 are aligned with the longitudinal grooves 210 of the other of these elements. If applicable, this engagement is such that the longitudinal rail 290 of one of these bar elements 170 is aligned with the longitudinal rail 290 of the other of these elements. For example, each bar element 170 engages with the profiled insert 27 over a longitudinal portion approximately 15 centimeters long. Preferably, the bar elements 170 engage with the insert 27 in such a way that these bar elements come together in a butt joint.

[0067] A kit intended to form a pool cover 3, such as that described in relation to [Fig.1], comprises at least two pieces of tarpaulin 5 and at least three kits each intended to form a connecting bar 11 forming a cover bar, each of these kits comprising at least two bar elements 170 and a connection 30.

[0068] Reference is made to [Fig.4].

[0069] This [Fig.4] shows part of the insert 27 inserted into one of the bar elements 170.

[0070] The notch 31 of each wing 36 is shaped to receive a respective longitudinal groove 210 of the bar element 170. Each notch 31 of the insert 27 is here shaped to correspond to a respective longitudinal groove 210 of the bar element 170. This correspondence of shape is such that that after engagement, a gap remains between each wing 36 and the corresponding part of the bar element 170, at the very least between each notch 31 and the respective longitudinal groove 210.

[0071] Here, after the engagement of the insert 27 on the respective bar element 170, there remains a play between the outer contour of the wings 36 of the insert 27 and the inside of the bar element 170. Among other things, this play allows the insert 27 to slide relative to the bar element 170 for the assembly of the parts together.

[0072] Here, the insert 27 further has a portion of its outer surface shaped into a bearing surface against the bar element 170, this surface being active when the insert 27 is engaged in a bar element 170. Here, this bearing surface is located in the vicinity of the junction portion 40 between the flanges 36. Here, the insert 27 includes an additional thickness 42 in the vicinity of the junction 40. This additional thickness 42 supports the bearing portion of the outer surface of the insert 27. The retention of the bar element 170 on the insert 27 is improved.

[0073] On its end portion 32, the bar element 170 may include at least one orifice 43 intended to receive the spacer, or, at the very least, one or more spacer elements for this spacer.

[0074] The orifice 43 is adapted to allow the passage of at least part of the spreader, at least part of the active surface 35, such as the body of the screws 38 in particular. The orifice 43 may be circular or oblong.

[0075] Here, the longitudinal rail 290 has a projecting portion 291 towards the inside of the bar element 170. The projecting portion 291 is shaped to correspond with the longitudinal rail 290. The screws 38 are placed in the longitudinal rail 290. The longitudinal rail 290 facilitates the positioning of the holes, without requiring center punching. Here, the insert 27 further has a groove 39 adapted to receive the projecting portion 291 of the longitudinal rail 290 so as to avoid interference between the insert 27 and the bar elements 170. Here, the groove 39 has a rectangular shape, but not limited to this.

[0076] Reference is made to figures 5 and 6.

[0077] The spreader, here the set of screws 38, is inserted into the slot 34 of the insert 27 and is actuated so as to spread the wings 36 of the insert 27 apart from each other, at least in the vicinity of the notches 31. The spreader can be actuated until the insert 27 comes into contact with the inside of a respective portion of the bar element 170 by means of the wings 36 ([Fig.6]).

[0078] The spreader may include at least one active surface 35 capable of spreading the slot 34 apart. As the spreader is actuated, its active surface 35 enters the slot 34 of the insert 27 and spreads the wings 36 apart. Generally, actuation of the spreader is accompanied by a translation of its active surface 35 within the slot 34.

[0079] The active surface 35 may include a leading end and have a flared shape. The flared shape widens from the leading end of the spreader. The leading end corresponds to the end that enters the slot 34 first. The flared shape of the active surface 35 allows the slot 34 to open progressively as the spreader is inserted. The active surface 35 may have a shape that is at least partially conical.

[0080] The spreader may further include a rotating member 37. The rotating member 37 is capable of actuating the active surface 35 of the spreader. The spreader includes an outer end, opposite the leading end. The rotating member is generally disposed near the outer end.

[0081] When the spreader comprises a plurality of spreader elements, each spreader element comprises a respective active surface and a respective rotating member capable of actuating the active surface. Here, for example, the screws 38 comprise a screw body acting as the active surface and a screw head acting as the rotating member.

[0082] The spreader is actuated once a bar element 170 is engaged on the insert 27, as in [Fig. 5] for example. The spreader is configured so that, at the end of its actuation, it acts to hold the insert 27 and the bar element 170 securely together, as in [Fig. 6] in particular. The action of the spreader on the insert 27 then prevents any disassembly of the insert 27 and the bar element 170.

[0083] The insert 27 engages with the bar elements 170 through the adhesion of zones of the wings 36 in contact with the interior of a respective portion of the bar element 170. Thus, the greater the number of such zones, the stronger the grip of the insert 27 on the bar element 170, especially if the zones are far apart. The grip is optimal if the zones are evenly distributed.

[0084] Before the spacer is inserted into the slot 34 of the insert 27, the shape cooperation between the insert 27 and the bar element 170 only allows translation of the insert 27 and the bar element 170 relative to each other. After its insertion into the slot 34, the spacer can be actuated to prevent this translation, once the insert 27 and the bar element 170 are correctly positioned relative to each other.

[0085] As the spreader is actuated, a respective portion of the outer surface of each wing 36 comes to rest against the bar element 170. The spreader makes it possible to exert pressure on the bar element 170 via the wings 36 in such a way that the profiled insert 27 is engaged with the bar element 170. As long as the spreader maintains the mutual separation of the wings 36, the wings 36 are engaged with the bar element 170 and the insert 27 is fixed to the bar element 170.

[0086] Here, the actuation of the spreader is accompanied by the bearing of each notch 31 against a respective longitudinal groove 210 of the bar element 170. This engagement eliminates the existing play between the outer portion of the flanges 26 and the inside of the bar element 170 ([Fig. 6]). The bar element 170 is held in place on the insert 27 by friction between the parts in the areas where the play is eliminated.

[0087] Here, the notches 31 are arranged symmetrically with respect to a median plane of the insert 27, while the slot 34 extends at least partially in this median plane. The surfaces through which the insert 27 engages with the bar element form clamping surfaces. Here, these clamping surfaces are arranged symmetrically with respect to the slot 34, which allows for a good distribution of the clamping forces and more effective retention of the insert 27 and the bar element 170.

[0088] We have just described how the insert 27 of the connection 30 engages in a first bar element 170 and the spacer is actuated to secure the insert 27 with this bar element 170. The insert 27 can also engage in a second bar element 170 and the spacer is actuated so as to secure the insert 27 with this other bar element 170 in order to fixably assemble these bar elements 170 to each other.

[0089] The spacer can include at least one spacer element, here in the form of a respective screw 38, per bar element 170 engaged on the insert 27. Preferably, as here, the spacer includes several spacer elements, here in the form of screws 38, distributed along the slot 34 of the insert 27.

[0090] The spreader is actuated here from the outside, through a wall of the end portion 32 of the bar element 170. In particular, each actuating element, here each screw 38, passes through this wall.

[0091] A spreader comprising several spreading elements as shown here, in particular distributed along the end portion 32, makes it possible to distribute the clamping force efficiently along the wings 36.

[0092] The spreader can be actuated, as shown here, by rotating each of these spreading elements, particularly when these are, as shown here, in the form of screws, especially self-tapping screws. Here, the rotation allows each screw 38 to enter the slot 34 via a screw thread 38 in contact with the slot 34, and to contribute to the mutual separation of the wings 36 of the insert 27. Alternatively, the rotation can directly open the slot 34.

[0093] Here, the spreader comprises one or more screws 38, preferably conical, at least partially. Each screw 38 is screwed into the slot 34. The slot 34 progressively widens it (opens wider and wider) as the screws are tightened. The use of screws makes the kit easy to use, particularly due to the use of conventional tools.

[0094] Here, the spreader, and more specifically the set of screws 38, is received in the longitudinal rails 290, such that its outer end, here the head of the screws 38, does not protrude from the portion of the bar thus formed. The longitudinal rails 290 generally have a depth greater than the height of the screw heads 38.

[0095] To join two bar elements 170 together in a fixed manner using the connection 30, it is preferable to engage each bar element 170 around the insert 27 before inserting and actuating the spreader. Actuating the spreader, including only some of its spreading elements, may spread the flanges 36 along the entire length of the profiled insert 27, which could hinder the engagement of a second bar element 170.

[0096] The kit according to the invention may include a set of connections of the type of connection 30 just described. These connections are inserted into adjacent bar elements so as to hold them together and form all or part of the connecting bars.

[0097] Reference is made to [Fig.7].

[0098] Once the bar elements 170 are joined together by means of one or more connections 30, a connecting bar is obtained, analogous to the connecting bars 11 of [Fig. 1], for example. Tarpaulin pieces 5, analogous to those described in connection with [Fig. 1], for example, can be mounted on this connecting bar. The ropes 19 of the tarpaulin pieces 5 can be slid into the longitudinal grooves 21 of the connecting bar in question.

[0099] The assembly of connecting bars and tarpaulin pieces 5 makes it possible to form a basin cover, of the type of the cover 3 described in relation to [Fig.1] for example.

[0100] The cover is installed on the pool basin so that the grooves are located near the bearing surface of the connecting bars with the ground (the longitudinal grooves 21 are then oriented downwards). In this position, the spacers are out of sight and inaccessible. For ergonomic and practical reasons, the spacers can be operated for assembly purposes in the opposite position, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, for example.

[0101] Reference is made to [Fig.8].

[0102] The spreader is actuated so as to spread the corresponding wings 36 apart from each other, at least in the vicinity of the notches 31, until the profiled insert 27 is engaged with the first respective bar element 170.

[0103] The insert 27 is dimensioned such that the wings 36, thanks to the elasticity of the insert 27, return to their initial shape when the action of the spreader ceases. It follows that the wings 36 move closer together, at least in the vicinity of the notches. This is the case, for example, when some or all of the screw 38. This is accompanied, where appropriate, by the disengagement of the wings 36 from the bar element 170. Here, the respective portion of the outer surface of each wing 36 ceases to be in contact with the bar element 170. The spreader can be disengaged until the insert 27 is disengaged from the first bar element 170.

[0104] A gap is again present between the outer contour of the wings 36 of the insert 27 and the inside of the bar elements 170. The profiled insert 27 is free to slide relative to the bar element 170 and can be removed from it. To do this, the spacer may have to be removed from the insert 27, in particular from its slot, and / or from the bar element 170.

[0105] This shows that the assembly of the bar element 170 and the connection 30 is reversible. It follows that the connection 30 described here allows for reversible assembly of the bar elements 170 with each other. Disassembly of the bar elements 170 and the connection 30 is easy.

[0106] Reference is made to [Fig.9].

[0107] Here, the orifice 43 of the bar element 170 is suitable for allowing the full passage of the spacer. The orifice 43 thus has an opening larger than the overall dimensions of the spacer. The connection between the insert 27 and the bar elements 170 is achieved by the interaction between the spacer and the insert 27 on the one hand, and between the insert 27 and the bar elements 170 on the other hand, without the spacer acting on the bar element 170. The spacer, here the set of screws 38, cannot therefore be subjected to shear stress.

[0108] Here, the entire spacer can be inserted into the connection 30 through the opening 43. The spacer is then connected only to the insert 27, and more specifically to the slot 34 of the insert 27. This shows that the bar elements 170 are held together without the spacer acting as a direct connecting element between the bar elements 170 and the insert 27. The screws 38 act as spacers here. Unlike prior art connections, the screws are not subjected to shear or tensile stresses here.

[0109] Alternatively, the orifice is shaped to provide access to the spreader. The spreader, in particular each of its active elements, can be actuated by a tool capable of passing through the orifice. The orifice may then have a surface area smaller than the transverse surface of the spreader. For this purpose, the spreader is mounted on the insert before being engaged in the bar elements.

[0110] A kit for forming a pool cover bar has been described, comprising at least two bar elements and a connection through which the bar elements are fixedly assembled. A kit according to the invention comprises one fewer connection than the number of bar elements.

[0111] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but encompasses all variants conceivable by those skilled in the art. In particular: - The connection may include a spacer with a single spacer element, which is mounted at the junction of the two bar elements assembled by the insert or straddling these elements, the actuation of this spacer element simultaneously holding the two bar elements on the profiled insert. - At least part of the outer surface of each wing bearing against a bar element may be away from the notch. - The spreader may include a conical shape as its active surface. - At least part of the connection, in particular the insert, can be irreversibly fixed to one bar element and reversibly mounted on the other bar element. - The surface of the notches can be distant from the longitudinal grooves. The insert can have any external contour provided that this contour ensures longitudinal guidance of the insert within the bar elements. For example, the insert may have a generally triangular cross-section whose external contour is in harmony with the internal contour of the cross-section of the bar elements. The external contour of the insert is arranged so that, once expanded, it presents sufficient and well-positioned bearing surfaces against the inside of the bar element to ensure that the insert is held in place within the bar element by friction.

Claims

Demands

1. A pool cover bar kit comprising: - at least two bar elements (170), at least partially hollow, each bar element (170) comprising at least one pair of longitudinal grooves (210), each groove being suitable for receiving a respective portion of a rope (19) of a cover element (5), - at least one connection (30) comprising an at least partially profiled insert (27), this insert (27) engaging in at least one of the respective bar elements (170), on an end portion (32) of this element, characterized in that the profiled insert (27) has at least one longitudinal slot (34) which divides the profiled insert (27) into two corresponding wings (36), each wing (36) having a shape corresponding at least in part to the end portion (32) of the first bar element (170) and a notch (31) adapted to a respective longitudinal groove (210),the connection (30) further comprising at least one spreader which is inserted into the longitudinal slot (34) of the profiled insert (27) and is actuated so as to spread the corresponding wings (36) apart from each other, at least in the vicinity of the notches (31), until the profiled insert (27) is engaged with the respective first bar element (170).

2. Kit according to claim 1, wherein each wing (36) further has a shape corresponding at least in part to the end portion (32) of a second of the bar elements (170) and the notch (31) is adapted to the longitudinal groove (210) of this second bar element, while the spreader is actuated until the profiled insert (27) is further engaged with the respective second bar element (170).

3. Kit according to any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the spacer comprises at least one spacer element per bar element (170), the spacer element being mounted in a longitudinal slot (34) of the profiled insert (27) in the vicinity of the end portion (32) of a respective bar element (170).

4. Kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the spacer is mounted on the profiled insert (27) at the junction of two elements of bar (170) so as to simultaneously hold the two bar elements (170).

5. Kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, once the profiled insert (27) is engaged with at least the first bar element (170), the spreader can be disengaged until the profiled insert (27) is out of engagement with the first bar element (170).

6. Kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the spreader comprises at least one active surface (35) which is inserted into the longitudinal slot (34) and a rotating member (37) capable of actuating the active surface (35), the active surface (35) being inserted by translation into the longitudinal slot (34).

7. Kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the spreader comprises at least one screw (38) as a spreading element, the screw (38) screwing into the longitudinal slot (34), and spreading the wings (36) apart as it enters the longitudinal slot (34).

8. Kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the profiled insert (27) is made at least partly of aluminum or aluminum alloy.

9. Kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bar element (170) comprises at least one orifice formed on its end portion (32), the orifice (43) being able to be traversed by at least a part of the spreader or to provide access to the spreader for the purpose of actuation.

10. Kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the notches (31) are arranged symmetrically to each other with respect to a median plane of the insert (27), while the longitudinal slot (34) extends at least partly in this median plane.

11. Kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the notches (31) each have a form correspondence with a respective longitudinal groove (210) of the bar element (170).

12. Kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each wing (36) of the profiled insert (27) has at least one contact area with the bar element (170), the profiled insert (27) engaging with the respective first bar element (170) at least partly through this contact area.

13. Kit according to claim 12, wherein the profiled insert (27) includes a junction zone (40) of the wings (36) together, this junction zone being shaped so as to come into contact with the bar element (170) when the profiled insert (27) is engaged with the first bar element (170).

14. Pool cover kit comprising at least one kit (28) according to one of the preceding claims and at least one cover element (5), the cover element (5) comprising at least two ropes (19), these ropes (19) being able to be mounted each in a respective longitudinal groove (210) of a bar element (170).

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