Debris blocker and pool device

Abstract

The present disclosure discloses a debris blocker and a pool device. The debris blocker may include a housing and a filter basket. The housing may be provided with an inlet and an outlet. The filter basket may be disposed within the housing to filter and block debris from the fluid flowing from the inlet to the outlet. The side wall of the filter basket may be equipped with a barrier. The filter basket and / or the barrier may float on a water surface with the housing, causing the top end of the barrier to protrude above the water surface within the housing and preventing floatable debris in the filter basket from floating out. The present disclosure may have the function of preventing floatable debris from floating out of the filter basket.

Description

DEBRIS BLOCKER AND POOL DEVICECROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to Chinese Utility Model CN2024214910143 filed June 27, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of fluid filtration technology, and more specifically, to a debris blocker and a pool device.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] A debris blocker, such as a filter or a skimmer, is widely used in water quality treatment, such as for filtering and blocking debris in pools. Currently, a common debris blocker in existing technologies includes a housing and a filter basket. The housing is provided with an inlet and an outlet, and the filter basket is disposed within the housing. During operation, water enters through the inlet of the housing, passes through the filter basket for filtration and debris blocking, and then exits through the outlet of the housing, thereby capturing debris in the fluid. However, the existing debris blockers have the following drawbacks: when the outlet of the housing stops discharging water, causing the water level inside the housing to rise above the filter basket, if the debris in the filter basket is not removed in time, some floatable debris in the filter basket may float out and drift towards the inlet of the housing, thereby affecting the overall debris-blocking effect.SUMMARY

[0004] In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides systems and methods for removing debris from a fluid flow. In examples, the disclosed systems and methods areconfigured to retain debris during changes in a fluid level in a pool to which the systems are coupled.

[0005] In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a debris blocker configured for installation in a pool is provided. The debris blocker may comprise a housing having an open interior, an inlet, and an outlet. The inlet may be configured to receive a flow of water. The outlet may be located below the inlet and configured to discharge water from the housing. The open interior of the housing may be located between the inlet and the outlet. The debris blocker may further comprise a filter basket which may be disposed in the open interior of the housing. The filter basket may have a water permeable construction configured to permit passage of water as water flows between the inlet of the housing and the outlet of the housing. The filter basket may also include a barrier having an upper edge. The filter basket may be buoyant in a standing body of water. The filter basket may have a waterline when buoyant in the standing body of water that demarcates between a portion of the filter basket submerged in the standing body of water and a portion of the filter basket above the standing body of water. The upper edge of the barrier may be located above the waterline of the filter basket. The open interior of the housing may be configured to permit the filter basket to move between a first position and a second position along a vertical extent of the housing depending on a water flow state of the debris blocker. The first position may be located above the second position.

[0006] In an example thereof, the filter basket may include a basket side wall defining a basket open interior. The barrier may be positioned above the basket side wall and configured to move with the basket side wall as the filter basket moves between the first position and the second position.

[0007] In another example thereof, the barrier may be moveable relative to the basket open interior.

[0008] In a further example thereof, the barrier may be fixed relative to the basket open interior.

[0009] In yet another example thereof, the housing may include an abutment configured to contact the filter basket to define the second position.

[0010] In yet still another example thereof, the housing may include an abutment configured to contact the filter basket to define the second position. The first position may be a buoyant position of the filter basket when the debris blocker may be in a non-flowing state and the second position may be in a flowing state. In a variation thereof, the debris blocker may further comprise a pump configured to pull water from the inlet of the housing to the outlet of the housing in the flowing state.

[0011] In yet a further example thereof, the housing may include a mounting coupling configured to couple the housing to a liner of the pool. In a variation thereof, the mounting coupling may be a mounting protrusion extending from a side wall of the housing and having a threaded surface configured to receive a mounting coupler.

[0012] In yet a further still example thereof, wherein the housing may include a pipe fitting extending from a wall of the housing. The pipe fitting including an internal passage in fluid communication with the outlet of the housing.

[0013] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a debris blocker configured for installation in a pool is provided. The debris blocker may comprise a housing having an inlet, an outlet, and an open interior. The inlet may be configured to receive a flow of water. The outlet may be located below the inlet and configured to discharge water from the housing. The open interior may be in fluid communication with the inlet of the housing and the outlet of the housing. The debris blocker may further comprise a barrier adjacent the inlet. The barrier may be configured to move along a vertical extent of the housing between a first position and a second position. The barrier may have a buoyancy in a standing body of water and configured to move between the first position and the second position depending on a condition of water in the housing. An upper portion of the barrier may discourage debris from floating from the open interior of the housing and through the inlet when the barrier is in the first position. The debris blocker may further comprise a water permeable passage disposed between the barrier and the outlet. The water permeable passage may be configured to discourage passage of debris from the open interior of the housing to the outlet.

[0014] In an example thereof, the barrier and the water permeable passage may be configured to move relative to the inlet. In a variation thereof, the barrier and the water permeable passage may be configured to move relative to each other.

[0015] In another example thereof, the debris blocker may further comprise a filter basket having a basket side wall and a basket opening at one end. The basket opening may be in fluid communication with the inlet of the housing and configured to receive a flow of water and debris from the inlet. In a variation thereof, the barrier may be disposed between the inlet of the housing and the basket opening of the filter basket. The basket opening may be in fluid communication with the water permeable passage. In a further variation thereof, the barrier may be moveably mounted to the basket side wall. In another variation thereof, a bottom of the filter basket may be positioned above the outlet of the housing when the filter basket is in the second position. In still another variation thereof, an abutment of the housing contacts a portion of the filter basket when the barrier may be in the second position.

[0016] In still another example thereof, the debris blocker may further comprise a side wall of the housing having at least one of a mounting coupling and a pipe fitting. In a variation thereof, the filter basket may include the water permeable passage. A flow path may be defined from the inlet, past the barrier, through the basket opening, through the water permeable passage, and through the outlet of the housing when the barrier may be in the second position.

[0017] In yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a debris blocker may be configured for installation to a liner of a pool is provided. The debris blocker may comprise a housing having an inlet, an outlet, and an open interior. The inlet may be on a first side of the housing and may be configured to receive a flow of water. The outlet located below the inlet and may be configured to discharge water from the housing. The open interior may be in fluid communication with the inlet of the housing and the outlet of the housing such that water received through the inlet may be discharged through the outlet during operation of the debris blocker. The debris blocker may further comprise a plurality of interface components on a second side of the housing and configured to extend through the liner of the pool.

[0018] In an example thereof, the plurality of interface components may include a mounting coupling and a fluid flow interface. The mounting coupling structured to be coupled to the liner of the pool and secure the debris blocker the liner. The fluid flow interface structured to flow the water received through the inlet and discharged through the outlet.

[0019] In another example thereof, the plurality of interface components may be configured to interface to the liner of the pool through a plurality of liner openings of the pool.

[0020] In a further example thereof, the second side of the housing may be opposite the first side of the housing.

[0021] In still another example thereof, the plurality of interface components may include a mounting protrusion having a threaded surface and configured to engage a mounting coupler. In a variation thereof, the plurality of interface components may include a pipe fitting configured to convey the water received from the inlet and discharged through the outlet. The mounting protrusion extending through a first liner opening of the plurality of liner openings and the pipe fitting extending through a second liner opening of the plurality of liner openings.

[0022] In yet still another example thereof, the plurality of interface components may include a pipe fitting configured to convey the water received from the inlet and discharged through the outlet.

[0023] In a further still example thereof, the debris blocker may further comprise a barrier moveable along a vertical extent of the housing between a first position and a second position depending upon a state of water in the open interior of the housing. The first position discouraging debris from floating between the open interior of the housing and the inlet of the housing during operation of the debris blocker. In both the first position and the second position permitting water to flow from the inlet of the housing to the outlet of the housing during operation of the debris blocker.

[0024] In yet still a further example thereof, the debris blocker may further comprise a member having a water permeable passage disposed between the inlet and the outlet of the housing. In a variation thereof, the debris blocker may further comprise a filter basket includingthe barrier and the water permeable passage. In another variation thereof, the filter basket may include a basket open interior defined by at least one side wall. The barrier may define an inlet to the basket open interior. The at least one side wall may include the water permeable passage. The water permeable passage may define an outlet of the filter basket. In a further variation thereof, the barrier may be fixed relative to the at least one side wall of the filter basket. In still a further variation thereof, the barrier may be moveable relative to the at least one side wall of the filter basket.

[0025] In a further exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a debris blocker for floatable debris is provided. The debris blocker may comprise a housing and a filter basket. The housing may be provided with an inlet and an outlet. The filter basket may be disposed within the housing to filter and block debris from the fluid flowing from the inlet to the outlet. A side wall of the filter basket may be provided with a barrier. At least one of the filter basket and the barrier may be configured to float on a water surface within the housing causing the top end of the barrier to protrude above the water surface within the housing and preventing the floatable debris in the filter basket from floating out of the filter basket.

[0026] In an example thereof, the filter basket may be configured to float on the water surface within the housing. The barrier may be a flange provided at the top of the side wall of the filter basket.

[0027] In another example thereof, the barrier may be movably mounted on the side wall of the filter basket in the vertical direction. The barrier may be configured to float on the water surface of the housing.

[0028] In still another example thereof, the barrier may be one of a ring-shaped structure extending around the circumference of the filter basket and a segment of structure corresponding to the inlet of the housing to prevent the floatable debris in the filter basket from floating towards the inlet.

[0029] In yet still another example thereof, the inlet may be located at the top of the side wall of the housing. In the state where water may be discharged from the outlet of the housing, the filter basket and the barrier are positioned below the inlet.

[0030] In a further example thereof, the outlet may be located at the bottom of the side wall of the housing. The lower end of the filter basket may be positioned above the outlet.

[0031] In a further still example thereof, the outer side surface of the housing may be provided with a mounting protrusion. The mounting protrusion may be fitted with a sealing ring and may be spirally engaged with a mounting nut to achieve the installation and fixation of the housing. The mounting protrusion and the outlet are located on the same side wall of the housing. The outer side surface of the housing may be provided with a pipe fitting protruding from the outer side surface of the housing at the outlet.

[0032] In yet a further still example thereof, the top end of the housing may be provided with an opening for the filter basket to enter and exit the housing. The opening of the housing may be equipped with a closable cover. The filter basket may be provided with a handle for lifting.

[0033] In a further still exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a debris blocker positionable at a water line of water in a pool is provided. The debris blocker may comprise a housing having an inlet, an outlet, and an interior. The debris blocker may further comprise a filter basket positioned within and removable from the interior of the housing. The filter basket may be movable to a first position wherein in use a first portion of the filter basket may be above the water line of the pool and a second portion of the filter basket may be below the water line of the pool. The filter basket may be further movable to a second position wherein in use the first portion of the filter basket may be below the water line of the pool and the second portion of the filter basket may be below the water line of the pool. The debris blocker may further comprise a mount adapted to couple the housing to the pool. The mount positioning the housing so that in use the inlet may be in fluid communication with the water of the pool. In a variation thereof, the mount in use extends through a side wall of the pool.

[0034] In still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an above ground pool assembly for support on a ground surface is provided. The above ground pool may comprise a base supported by the ground surface and at least one side wall extending upwardfrom the base. The base and the at least one side water forming a water cavity. The debris blocker may be in fluid communication with the water cavity.

[0035] In an example thereof, the debris blocker may be supported by the at least one side wall.

[0036] In another example thereof, the debris blocker may extend through the at least one side wall.

[0037] In still another example thereof, the above ground pool assembly may further comprise a pool frame and wherein the base and at least one side wall form a liner. An upper portion of the liner supported by the pool frame. In a variation thereof, the pool frame may include a plurality of spaced apart vertical supports and a plurality of horizontal supports which support the liner. In another variation thereof, the liner may include at least one pocket which receives the plurality of horizontal supports.

[0038] In still another example thereof, the debris blocker may be supported by the liner independent of the pool frame.

[0039] In yet still another example thereof, a housing and a filter basket of the debris blocker may be positioned within the water cavity.

[0040] In yet still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a pool device is provided. The pool device may comprise a pool, a water-drawing mechanism, and a debris blocker. An inlet of a housing of the debris blocker may be connected to an interior of the pool and an outlet of the housing of the debris blocker may be connected to a water inlet end of the water-drawing mechanism. A water outlet end of the water-drawing mechanism may be connected to the interior of the pool independent of the debris blocker.

[0041] In an example thereof, the housing may be mounted on an inner side surface of the pool. The water-drawing mechanism may be one of a water pump and a filter with a waterdrawing function.

[0042] In still yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a frame pool is provided. The frame pool may comprise a plurality of frame pool members coupled to form aframe of a frame pool. The plurality of frame pool members arranged to provide an opening. The frame pool may further comprise a liner and a debris blocker. The liner disposed in the opening formed by the plurality of frame pool members. The liner having a thickness and a liner opening formed through the thickness. The debris blocker constructed to skim floating objects from a standing body of water in the frame pool. The debris blocker including a housing fixed to the liner and having an inlet configured to be in fluid communication with the standing body of water in the frame pool. The debris blocker further including an outlet located below the inlet and configured to discharge water from the housing, and an open interior in fluid communication with the inlet of the housing and the outlet of the housing such that water received through the inlet may be discharged through the outlet during operation of the debris blocker.

[0043] In response to the technical issues present in existing technologies, the present disclosure provides a debris blocker and a pool device, which features a barrier on a filter basket to prevent debris from floating out of the filter basket during operation.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a debris blocker includes a housing and a filter basket. The housing is provided with at least one inlet and at least one outlet. The filter basket is disposed within the housing to filter and block debris present in the fluid from flowing from the at least one inlet to the at least one outlet. The side wall of the filter basket is equipped with a barrier. The filter basket and / or the barrier may float on the water surface of the housing, causing the top end of the barrier to protrude above the water surface of the housing and preventing floatable debris in the filter basket from floating out of the filter basket, such as back to the pool to which the debris blocker is attached.

[0045] In an example thereof, the filter basket may float on the water surface of the housing, and the barrier may include a flange provided at the top of the side wall of the filter basket.

[0046] In another example thereof, the barrier may be movably mounted on the side wall of the filter basket in the vertical direction and may float on the water surface.

[0047] In still another example thereof, the barrier is a ring-shaped structure extending around the circumference of the filter basket, or the barrier is a segment of structure corresponding to the inlet of the housing, to prevent floatable debris in the filter basket from floating towards the inlet.

[0048] In yet still another example thereof, the inlet is located at the top of the side wall of the housing and water is discharged from the outlet of the housing. The filter basket and the barrier are positioned below the inlet.

[0049] In yet still another example thereof, the outlet is located at the bottom of the side wall of the housing, and the lower end of the filter basket is positioned above the outlet.

[0050] In a further example thereof, the outer side surface of the housing is provided with a mounting protrusion which is configured to be inserted through a corresponding mounting hole provided in the mounting carrier of the debris blocker. The mounting protrusion is fitted with a sealing ring and is spirally engaged with a mounting nut to achieve the installation and fixation of the housing. The mounting protrusion and the outlet are located on the same side wall of the housing, and the outer side surface of the housing is provided with a pipe fitting protruding from the outer side surface of the housing at the outlet.

[0051] In yet a further example thereof, the top end of the housing is provided with an opening for the filter basket to enter and exit the housing. The opening of the housing is equipped with a closable cover. The filter basket is provided with a handle for lifting.

[0052] In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a pool device is provided. The pool device includes a pool and a water-drawing mechanism, and further includes an embodiment of the debris blocker described herein. The inlet of the housing of the debris blocker is connected to the interior of the pool, and the outlet of the housing is connected to the water inlet end of the water-drawing mechanism. The water outlet end of the waterdrawing mechanism is connected to the interior of the pool.

[0053] In an example thereof, the housing is mounted on the inner side surface of the pool, and the water-drawing mechanism is a water pump, or the water-drawing mechanism is a filter with a water-drawing function, such as a pump.

[0054] In another example thereof, the side wall of the filter basket of the debris blocker is provided with a barrier, and the filter basket and / or the barrier may float on the water surface of the housing, causing the top end of the barrier to protrude above the water surface of the housing and preventing floatable debris in the filter basket from floating out, the present disclosure has the function of preventing floatable debris from floating out of the filter basket, which may significantly enhance the filtering and debris-blocking effects of the debris blocker.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0055] The above-mentioned and other features and advantages of this disclosure, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and will be better understood by reference to the following description of exemplary embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0056] Figure 1 is an exploded view diagram of an exemplary debris blocker of the present disclosure (including a partial structure of the pool side wall);

[0057] Figure 1 A is a cross sectional view of a filter basket of the debris blocker disposed in a housing of the debris blocker of Figure 1;

[0058] Figure IB is a side view of the filter basket of FIG. 1 relative to a water line of the pool;

[0059] Figure 2 is a sectional view of a filter basket of the debris blocker of Figure 1;

[0060] Figure 2 A is a detail view of a portion of a water permeable construction of the filter basket of Figure 2;

[0061] Figure 2B is a representative view of a moveable barrier of an exemplary filter basket of the present disclosure;

[0062] Figure 3 is an assembly view of the debris blocker of Figure 1;

[0063] Figure 4 is a sectional view of the housing after the filter basket is installed in the housing;

[0064] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the housing after the filter basket is installed in the housing;

[0065] Figure 6 is an installation view of the debris blocker of Figure 1 to a wall of an exemplary pool;

[0066] Figure 7 is an installation view of the debris blocker of Figure 1 to a wall of an exemplary pool;

[0067] Figure 8 is an installation view of the debris blocker of Figure 1 to a wall of an exemplary pool;

[0068] Figure 9 is a sectional view of the debris blocker in the state shown in Figure 8;

[0069] Figure 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 9;

[0070] Figure 11 is a sectional view of another assembly arrangement of the debris blocker in the state shown in Figure 8;

[0071] Figure 12 is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 11;

[0072] Figure 13 is an installation view of the debris blocker of Figure 1 to a wall of an exemplary pool and to an input conduit of a water drawing mechanism;

[0073] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a pool device of the present disclosure;

[0074] Figure 15 is an exemplary working state diagram of the debris blocker of Figure1; and

[0075] Figure 16 is another exemplary working state diagram of the debris blocker of Figure 1.

[0076] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplification set out herein illustrates an exemplary embodiment of theinvention and such exemplification is not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0077] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference is now made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings, which is described below. The embodiment disclosed below is not intended to be exhaustive or limit the present disclosure to the precise form disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiment is chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may utilize its teachings. Therefore, no limitation of the scope of the present disclosure is thereby intended. Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. Similar reference numerals refer to similar elements. In the present disclosure, terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used only to distinguish similar objects and do not describe a specific order or sequence. They also do not imply relative importance. The terms "upper," "lower," "inner," "outer," "top / bottom end," etc., are used to describe the orientation or positional relationships based on the orientation shown in the drawings. These terms are used for convenience of description and do not indicate or imply that the device must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a particular manner. Therefore, they should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of protection of the present disclosure. For those skilled in the art, the specific meanings of these terms in the context of this application can be understood based on the specific circumstances. In the description of the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, "multiple" refers to two or more. The term "and / or" describes the relationship between associated objects, indicating that there can be three possible relationships. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist together, or B exists alone. The character " / " generally indicates an "or" relationship between the associated objects.

[0078] In some instances throughout this disclosure and in the claims, numeric terminology, such as first, second, third, and fourth, is used in reference to various components, speed ratios, and other items. Such use is not intended to denote an ordering of the components.Rather, numeric terminology is used to assist the reader in identifying the component being referenced and should not be narrowly interpreted as providing a specific order of components.

[0079] Referring to Figures 1-5, a debris blocker 50 of the present disclosure is shown. Debris blocker 50 includes a housing 1 and a filter basket 2. In the illustrated embodiment, debris blocker 50 is a skimmer and is configured to capture, or skim, floating debris in a pool and retain the debris so that the debris does not float back out to a surface of the pool and is also not ingested into a water pump. Such a debris blocker 50 is therefore suitable for filtering out at least some debris in a pool for a more sanitary and enjoyable experience by swimmers in the pool.

[0080] The housing 1 of the debris blocker 50 is provided with an inlet 11 configured to receive water from a pool (such as pool 74 in Figure 14) and an outlet 12 configured to discharge water received through the 11 inlet from the pool and conveyed through an interior of housing 1 to the outlet 12. In embodiments, inlet 11 is located above outlet 12 along a vertical extent 52 of housing 1 when debris blocker 50 is in an orientation corresponding to an installed orientation used when operating debris blocker 50. Thus, the location of inlet 11 being above outlet 12 permits water entering inlet 11 to fall to a lower level associated with outlet 12 providing a flow of water during operation of debris blocker 50.

[0081] The filter basket 2 is disposed within an open interior 19 of the housing 1 to filter and block debris from the fluid (e.g., water from the pool) flowing from the inlet 11 to the outlet 12. Open interior 19 of the housing 1, therefore, is in fluid communication with inlet 11 and outlet 12. Filter basket 2 includes a basket opening 29 through which water may be received into filter basket 2. In embodiments, filter basket 2 may include a plurality of basket side walls 27 defining a basket open interior 23. In embodiments, filter basket 2 may include a single basket side wall 27 defining a basket open interior 23. For example, filter basket 2 may take the form of a hemisphere that may or may not include a flattened bottom. The filter basket 2 in the illustrated embodiment includes a bottom wall and four surrounding side walls, each of which may be considered a basket side wall 27. The bottom wall in the illustrated embodiment includes a portion having a water permeable construction 24 (see Figure 2A). In embodiments,a water permeable construction 24 may be located at any position in any basket side wall 27 and may take up a portion of basket side wall 27 or the entirety of basket side wall 27. Water permeable construction 24 permits the flow of water therethrough. For example, during operation water may enter housing 1 through inlet 11, flow through open interior 19 and basket open interior 23 and enter water permeable construction 24 before exiting through outlet 12. Water permeable construction 24 may take on a variety of forms suitable to permit water to pass therethrough but capture and retrain debris in basket open interior 23 for subsequent removal by a user of a pool (e.g., a homeowner, pool maintainer, etc.). The size of openings in the water permeable construction 24 may be chosen based on the desired size of debris to be removed from the water flow by filter basket 2.

[0082] In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 2A, the water permeable construction 24 is in the form of a filter mesh. Water permeable construction 24 facilitates the filtration of water from the pool and blocking of debris from passing therethrough. Turning briefly to FIG. 2A, an embodiment of water permeable construction 24 is illustrated having at least one water permeable passage 25. Water permeable construction 24 may have a plurality of water permeable passages 25 that are uniformly sized and uniformly distributed about water permeable passage 25. In embodiments, water permeable passages may not be uniformly sized and / or may not be uniformly distributed. For example, in embodiments, water permeable construction 24 may be in the form of a media filter (e.g., a collection of synthetic filaments, webbing, etc.) having any number of tortuous water permeable passages 25. In embodiments, water permeable construction 24 may be integrated into filter basket 2 (e.g., water permeable construction 24 may be made separately and inserted into filter basket 2) or may be integral with filter basket 2 (e.g., water permeable construction 24 and filter basket 2 may be made in a molding operation).

[0083] The side wall of the filter basket 2 is equipped with a barrier 21 configured to retain debris within basket open interior 23 and / or discouraging debris from entering basket open interior 23 through inlet 11. The filter basket 2 and / or barrier 21 is configured to float on the water surface of the housing 1 when water in housing 1 is a standing body of water, causing a top end 26 of barrier 21 to protrude above the water surface of the housing 1 thus preventingfloatable debris in the filter basket 2 from floating out from basket open interior 23 back into the pool and / or floating from the pool through inlet 11 into basket open interior 23. In operation, the water level in housing 1 is generally equal to a water level in the pool. As will be described further herein, when water in debris blocker 50 is in a flowing state (e.g., water is actively flowing from inlet 11 to outlet 12 through water permeable construction 24 of filter basket 2), water level and / or flowing resistance may provide adverse conditions such that filter basket 2 may not float at a level of water coincident with a surface of water in pool (see description of FIGS. 15 and 16 further herein).

[0084] When water is not flowing through debris blocker 50, the filter basket 2 may float on the water surface of the housing 1 (see, e.g., FIG. 16), and the barrier 21 acts to discourage travelling of debris. In embodiments, barrier 21 may take the form of a flange provided at the top of the basket side wall 27 of the filter basket 2. When barrier 21 takes the form of a flange (see Figure 2), it may be a ring-shaped structure extending around the circumference of the filter basket 2, but it is not limited to this. In other embodiments, the barrier 21 is a segment of structure corresponding to the inlet 11 of the housing 1, to prevent floatable debris in the filter basket 2 from floating towards the inlet 11. For example, barrier 21 may not extend around entirety of basket open interior 23, and rather include one or more separate segments. In embodiments, barrier 21 may include only a single segment located in proximity to inlet 11 of housing 1. Turning briefly to Figure IB, filter basket 2 is illustrated in standing body of water 78 inside housing 1. Standing body of water 78 includes a water line 80 that is between an upper portion 82 of barrier 21 and a lower portion 84 of barrier 21. Barrier 21 includes an upper edge 86 that is above water line 80. In embodiments, a lower edge 88 of barrier 21 may be below water line 80.

[0085] In embodiments, a gap 54 between the housing 1 and the filter basket 2 is relatively small sized such that floatable debris of a minimum size in the filter basket 2 will not fall into the gap 54 between the housing 1 and the filter basket 2 when filter basket 2 moves along vertical extent 52 of housing 1 (e.g., when filter basket 2 floats up when in standing water or falls down when water is moved through housing 1 from inlet 11 to outlet 12). Gap 54 may be between barrier 21 and housing 1 and / or between basket side wall 27 and housing 1.

[0086] In embodiments, the barrier 21 may be plate-shaped (e.g., solid shape that does not admit water or debris) or mesh-shaped (e.g., a semi-solid shape that may permit passage of water but discourages passage of debris). It may be a ring-shaped structure extending around the four sides of the filter basket 2 (in a four-sided filter basket 2) or a segment of structure corresponding to the inlet 11 of the housing 1. The segment may be on the side of the filter basket 2 adjacent the inlet 11 of the housing 1.

[0087] In embodiments, barrier 21 may be movably mounted on the basket side wall 27 of the filter basket 2 in the vertical direction as depicted in Figure 2B, and it floats up to make its top end protrude above the water surface of the housing 1, thereby preventing debris from floating out of the filter basket 2. In these embodiments, barrier 21 may be captured to filter basket 2 but otherwise free to translate along a basket vertical extent 56. Compared with a movably mounted barrier 21 (e.g., moveable barrier 21 in Figure 2B), the barrier 21 in the form of a structure fixed relative to the filter basket 2 has a simpler structure and does not require additional assembly. In sum, barrier 21 may be integrated into filter basket 2 (e.g., barrier 21 may be made separately and coupled to filter basket 2, either forming a fixed barrier 21 relative to basket side walls 27 or moveable barrier 21) or may be integral with filter basket 2 (e.g., water permeable construction 24 and filter basket 2 may be made in a molding operation). Barrier 21 may be integrally formed with the basket side wall 27 of the filter basket 2, and the filter basket 2 may be made of lightweight materials to automatically float up when the water level in the housing 1 reaches a preset value. In embodiments, buoyancy of filter basket 2 with barrier 21 may be provided through density of material used with one or both of filter basket 2 and barrier 21. Basket side walls 27 of filter basket 2 may have a different density than barrier 21. In embodiments, one of basket side walls 27 and barrier 21 may have a density greater than water, but the whole of basket side walls 27 and barrier 21 has a density lower than water thus providing buoyancy to filter basket 2.

[0088] As shown in the illustrated embodiment in Figure 5, the inlet 11 of the housing 1 is located at the top of the side wall 16 of the housing 1. Housing 1 may include a plurality of side walls 16 defining open interior 19. In further embodiments, housing 1 may include a single side wall 16 defining open interior 19. For example, housing 1 may take the form of ahemisphere that may or may not include a flattened bottom. Housing 1 in the illustrated embodiment includes a bottom wall and four surrounding side walls, each of which may be considered a side wall 16.

[0089] In embodiments (e.g., see Figure 5), inlet 11 may be located such that a housing edge segment 17 extends across an inlet top portion 111 of inlet 11. As depicted in Figure 5, inlet 11 includes inlet top portion 111, an inlet side portion 112, an inlet side portion 113, and an inlet bottom portion 114. Although inlet 11 is depicted as quadrilateral in shape in Figure 5, other shapes are also contemplated. In embodiments, inlet 11 may be defined by one or more sides. For example, housing 1 may not include housing edge segment 17 such that inlet 11 is defined by inlet side portion 112, inlet side portion 113, and inlet bottom portion 114. In the state where water is discharged from the outlet 12 of the housing 1 (see, e.g., Figure 15), the filter basket 2 and barrier 21 (e.g., the barrier 21 in the form of a structure fixed to basket side wall 27 in Figure 2) are located below the inlet 11. The outlet 12 of the housing 1 is located at the bottom of the side wall 16 of the housing 1, and a basket lower end 28 of the filter basket 2 is positioned above an upper portion 18 of the outlet 12, as shown in Figure 4. In embodiments, basket lower end 28 may be positioned below upper portion 18 of outlet 12. For example, water permeable construction 24 may be formed throughout basket side wall 27 such that water may flow through basket side wall 27 even when basket lower end 28 of filter basket 2 is positioned below upper portion 18 of outlet 12. Several different arrangements thus prevents the filter basket 2 from affecting the water discharge from the outlet 12. Specifically, basket lower end 28 may stop at a location above upper portion 18 of outlet 12 and / or basket side wall 27 may include water permeable construction 24 in basket side wall 27 that permits water to flow through even when basket lower end 28 is below upper portion 18 of outlet 12.

[0090] In embodiments, one or more side wall 16 of the housing 1 are provided with a support section 15, the top end of which is higher than the outlet 12, and the filter basket 2 is placed on this support section 15. Support section 15 may be an abutment or other structure that engages one or more portions of filter basket 2 (e.g., basket side wall 27 and / or barrier 21). For example, support section 15 may engage basket lower end 28 of filter basket 2 to halt downward movement of filter basket 2 when water is in a flowing state (e.g., see Figure 15). Inembodiments, support section 15 may be a bottom floor of open interior 19. For example, when basket side walls 27 includes water permeable construction 24 in an orientation that water is permitted to flow through to outlet 12 even when basket lower end 28 is below upper portion 18 of outlet 12. In embodiments, support section 15 may be a stepped surface, tapered surface, etc.

[0091] In embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 and 3-8, a top end 115 of the housing 1 is provided with an opening 116 for the filter basket 2 to enter and exit the housing 1. The opening 116 of the housing 1 is equipped with a closable cover 5. Specifically, one end of the cover 5 is integrally formed (e.g., in the form of a living hinge 85) or pivotally connected to the top side of the cover 5 (e.g., in the form of a piano hinge), allowing the cover 5 to open or close by rotating relative to the housing 1. However, this is not limited to this embodiment. In other embodiments, the cover 5 is separate from the housing 1 and is removably connected to the housing 1. In embodiments, cover 5 may be slidingly moved between an open position and a closed position. In embodiments, cover 5 may include a closed position that secures cover 5 to housing 1. For example, cover 5 may be snapped into place, secured through a fastener, etc. When filter basket 2 is moved between open interior 19 and a position exterior of housing 1, cover 5 may be configured to be moved to an open position. One embodiment of an open position of cover 5 is depicted in Figures 1 and 3-8 in which the cover is approximately orthogonal to side wall 16 of housing 1. Cover 5 may have several angular orientations that are considered an ‘open’ position sufficient to permit filter basket 2 to be moved between open interior 19 and a position exterior of housing 1.

[0092] In this embodiment, the top of the basket side wall 27 of the filter basket 2 is provided with a lifting part, which facilitates the user to grasp the lifting part to place the filter basket 2 into the housing 1 or to remove the filter basket 2 from the housing 1. In embodiments, filter basket 2 may not include a lifting part. The lifting part in the illustrated embodiment is specifically a lifting rod 22 positioned across the middle of the top end of the filter basket 2, with its two ends being removably connected to the filter basket 2. However, the structure and connection method of the lifting part are not limited to this. In this embodiment, the two ends of the lifting rod 22 are respectively snap-fitted to the top ends of the two oppositeside walls of the filter basket 2. However, the connection method between the lifting rod 22 and the filter basket 2 is not limited to this.

[0093] In embodiments, the outer side surface of the housing 1 is provided with a plurality of interface components useful to interface debris blocker 50 with one or more other components of a pool. In embodiments, housing 1 may include a first interface component 70 having a mounting protrusion 13 which may be used to mount the debris blocker 50 to a side wall of a pool (e.g., see Figures 14-16). In embodiments, mounting coupling 13 of first interface component 70 may take the form of a threaded protrusion which may be inserted through a liner opening 61. In embodiments, liner opening 61 may take the form of a mounting hole configured to receive mounting coupling 13 of the debris blocker 50. This mounting protrusion 13 may be fitted with a sealing ring 3 and is spirally engaged with a mounting nut 4 (e.g., threadingly engaged) to achieve the installation and fixation of the housing 1. In embodiments, sealing ring 3 and / or mounting nut 4 may be part of first interface component 70. The mounting protrusion 13 and the outlet 12 of the housing 1 may be located on the same side wall 16 of the housing 1. In embodiments, mounting protrusion 13 and outlet 12 may be located in a different portion of housing 1 (e.g., each of mounting protrusion 13 and outlet 12 are located in a different side wall 16). The part of the housing 1 where the outlet 12 is located includes a second interface component 72. In embodiments, second interface component 72 may be used to interface with a pump (described, e.g., in Figure 14). In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 1, second interface component 72 extends outward to form a pipe fitting 14 protruding from the outer side surface of the housing 1, which facilitates the connection to the first water pipe 7 mentioned below. In embodiments, sealing ring 3 and / or mounting nut 4 may be part of first interface component 70. Further, in embodiments, flexible hose bundle 8 (Figures 7 and 13) may be part of the second interface component 72.

[0094] In embodiments, first interface component 70 may be located apart from second interface component 72, such as that shown in the illustrated embodiment in which first interface component 70 is located above second interface component 72. In embodiments, first interface component 70 may take on other orientations and locations relative to second interface component 72. For example, a single location may provide both first interface component 70and second interface component 72, such as embodiments in which mounting nut 4 includes an open interior though which pipe fitting 14 may extend. First interface component 70 and / or second interface component 72 may include one or more portions located on an opposite side of liner 76 (see Figure 14) from at least a portion of housing 1. For example, liner 76 may be located between mounting nut 4 and side wall 16 of housing 1, and liner 76 may be located between a portion of pipe fitting 14 and side wall 16 of housing 1.

[0095] When assembling the debris blocker 50 of the present disclosure, first open the cover 5 at the top of the housing 1, then place the filter basket 2 into the housing 1 as shown in Figures 3 and 4, and finally close the cover 5 as shown in Figure 5.

[0096] The debris blocker 50 of the present disclosure may be applied to pools, such as pet pools, to facilitate the filtration and debris blocking of the pool water. The working principle of the debris blocker 50 of the present disclosure will be described in detail below in conjunction with pools.

[0097] Referring to Figures 1 to 15, a pool device 74 of the present disclosure includes a pool 6 (Figures 1, 6 to 13 show a partial side wall 100 of the pool 6), a water-drawing mechanism 9 (see Figure 14), and the debris blocker 50 of the present disclosure as described above. The inlet 11 of the housing 1 of debris blocker 50 is connected to the interior of the pool 6, the outlet 12 of the housing 1 is connected to the water inlet end of the water-drawing mechanism 9, and the water outlet end of the water-drawing mechanism 9 is connected to the interior of the pool 6. In embodiments, water-drawing mechanism 9 of pool device 74 may be a water pump structured to draw water from interior of pool 6, through inlet 11 of housing 1, into filter basket 2 through basket opening 29, through water permeable construction 24 of filter basket 2, and exiting housing 1 through outlet 12. Thus, water-drawing mechanism 9 may provide energy useful to place debris blocker 50 in the flowing state described above. When water-drawing mechanism 9 is not in operation, such a state of the water-drawing mechanism 9 may give rise to the non-flowing state of debris blocker 50 described above.

[0098] Specifically, in this embodiment, the housing 1 is mounted on the inner side surface of the pool 6 and is carried by the side wall 100 of the pool 6. In embodiments, thedebris blocker is carried by a liner 76 of pool 6. The water-drawing mechanism 9 may include a filter with a water-drawing function, the water inlet end of water-drawing mechanism 9 is connected to the outlet 12 of the housing 1 via the first water pipe 7, and the water outlet end is connected to the water inlet hole correspondingly set on the side wall 100 of the pool 6 via the second water pipe.

[0099] When installing the debris blocker 50 in the pool device of the present disclosure, as shown in Figure 6, first fit the sealing ring 3 onto the mounting protrusion 13 of the housing 1 and insert it through the liner opening 61 correspondingly set in the side wall 100 of the pool 6. Meanwhile, the pipe fitting 14, where the outlet 12 of the housing 1 is located, passes through another liner opening 62. In embodiments, liner opening 62 may take the form of a clearance hole 62 set at the bottom of the side wall of the pool 6, as shown in Figures 7 and 8. To achieve a seal, a flexible pipe sleeve 63 (as shown in Figure 6) may be inserted at the clearance hole 62 of the pool 6. When the pipe fitting 14 passes through the pipe sleeve 63, it expands the pipe sleeve 63, thereby using the pipe fitting 14 to seal the gap between the pipe fitting 14 and the clearance hole 62. In embodiments, the pipe sleeve is welded or otherwise coupled to side wall 100. Alternatively, a sealing ring may be fitted over the pipe fitting 14 of the housing 1 to achieve a sealing effect. Next, as shown in Figure 7, tighten the mounting nut 4 onto the mounting protrusion 13 to secure the installation of the housing 1. At this point, the sealing ring 3 is pressed tightly between the outer side surface of the housing 1 and the inner side surface of the pool 6, as shown in Figures 9 and 10. In other embodiments, after the mounting protrusion 13 passes through the mounting hole 61 in the side wall of the pool 6, the sealing ring 3 is fitted and the mounting nut 4 is tightened. In this case, the sealing ring 3 is pressed tightly between the outer side surface of the pool 6 and the mounting nut 4, as shown in Figures 11 and 12. Then, as shown in Figure 13, use a flexible hose bundle 8 to connect one end of the first water pipe 7 to the pipe fitting 14 of the housing 1, thereby completing the installation process of the debris blocker 50. In embodiments, flexible hose bunder may take the form of a hose clamp.

[0100] As illustrated in Figure 14, pool 6 may take the form of a frame pool having a plurality of frame members 79 including a plurality of vertical frame member 102 and a plurality of horizontal frame member 104 which may be coupled together to form a frame. Aliner 76 may be supported by the plurality of frame members 79. As shown in FIG. 1, the horizontal frame members 104 may be received in a pocket 108 formed in liner 76 to support an upper portion of liner 76. Liner 76 includes a bottom wall 107 and a plurality of side walls 100 which together form a water cavity of the pool. In embodiments, debris blocker 50 is supported by liner 76 independent of the plurality of frame members. Pool 6 may be filled with a body of water 83. Bottom wall 107 of liner 76 and feet of vertical frame members 102 may rest on the ground surface. As such, the illustrated pool is a type of above ground pool.

[0101] When the pool device 74 of the present disclosure is in operation, the filter basket 2 may move between a first position 90 (e.g., a floating position associated with a non-flowing water condition of water-drawing mechanism 9 through housing 1 and illustrated in Figure 16) and a second position 92 (e.g., a bottom position associated with a flowing water condition water-drawing mechanism 9 through housing 1 and illustrated in Figure 15). Upon the start of water drawing by the water-drawing mechanism 9, the water level inside the housing 1 drops, and the filter basket 2 descends synchronously from the first position 90 to the second position 92. Figure 15 illustrates a flowing state of the debris blocker 50 in which a flow of water 95 flows through inlet 11 and into basket 2 before exiting through water permeable construction 24 and out housing 1 through outlet 12. Figure 16 illustrates a non-flowing state of debris blocker 50. Due to the water level difference between the inside and outside of the housing 1 in the flowing state depicted in Figure 15, water from the pool 6 enters the housing 1 through the inlet 11 , undergoes primary filtration and debris blocking by the filter basket 2, and then exits through an internal passage 96 of second interface component 72 downstream of filter basket 2 and through the outlet 12 of the housing 1 (as shown in Figure 15, with arrows indicating the direction of water flow through flow path 94). It then flows through the water-drawing mechanism 9 for secondary filtration and finally returns to the pool 6, as shown in Figure 14, with arrows indicating the direction of water flow. After the water-drawing mechanism 9 stops drawing water, the water level inside the housing 1 returns to the same level as the water in the pool 6, and the filter basket 2 floats up, exposing barrier 21 above the water surface of the housing 1. The top of barrier 21 in some embodiments is approximately 5 mm above the watersurface, as shown in Figure 16, thereby preventing some floatable debris collected in the filter basket 2 from floating out of the filter basket 2 and returning to the pool 6.

[0102] When it is necessary to remove the debris collected in the filter basket 2, simply open the cover 5 at the top of the housing 1, take out the filter basket 2, and then remove the debris from the filter basket 2.

[0103] The debris blocker and pool device of the present disclosure, for parts not described, are the same as or may be implemented using existing technologies.

[0104] The following Examples provide non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0105] Example 1. A debris blocker configured for installation in a pool is provided. The debris blocker comprising a housing having an open interior, an inlet, and an outlet. The inlet configured to receive a flow of water. The outlet located below the inlet and configured to discharge water from the housing. The open interior of the housing located between the inlet and the outlet. The debris blocker further comprising a filter basket disposed in the open interior of the housing. The filter basket having a water permeable construction configured to permit passage of water as water flows between the inlet of the housing and the outlet of the housing. The filter basket also including a barrier having an upper edge. The filter basket is buoyant in a standing body of water. The filter basket having a waterline when buoyant in the standing body of water that demarcates between a portion of the filter basket submerged in the standing body of water and a portion of the filter basket above the standing body of water. The upper edge of the barrier located above the waterline of the filter basket. The open interior of the housing is configured to permit the filter basket to move between a first position and a second position along a vertical extent of the housing depending on a water flow state of the debris blocker. The first position located above the second position.

[0106] Example 2. The debris blocker of Example 1, wherein the filter basket includes a basket side wall defining a basket open interior. The barrier positioned above the basket side wall and configured to move with the basket side wall as the filter basket moves between the first position and the second position.

[0107] Example 3. The debris blocker as in any of the preceding Examples, wherein the barrier is moveable relative to the basket open interior.

[0108] Example 4. The debris blocker as in any one of Examples 1 and 2, wherein the barrier is fixed relative to the basket open interior.

[0109] Example 5. The debris blocker as in any of the preceding Examples, wherein the housing includes an abutment configured to contact the filter basket to define the second position.

[0110] Example 6. The debris blocker as in any of the preceding Examples, wherein the housing includes an abutment configured to contact the filter basket to define the second position. The first position is a buoyant position of the filter basket when the debris blocker is in a non-flowing state and the second position is in a flowing state.

[0111] Example 7. The debris blocker of Example 6, further comprising a pump configured to pull water from the inlet of the housing to the outlet of the housing in the flowing state.

[0112] Example 8. The debris blocker as in any of the preceding Examples, wherein the housing includes a mounting coupling configured to couple the housing to a liner of the pool.

[0113] Example 9. The debris blocker of Example 8, wherein the mounting coupling is a mounting protrusion extending from a side wall of the housing and having a threaded surface configured to receive a mounting coupler.

[0114] Example 10. The debris blocker as in any of the preceding Examples, wherein the housing includes a pipe fitting extending from a wall of the housing. The pipe fitting including an internal passage in fluid communication with the outlet of the housing.

[0115] Example 11. A debris blocker configured for installation in a pool is provided. The debris blocker comprising a housing having an inlet, an outlet, and an open interior. The inlet configured to receive a flow of water. The outlet located below the inlet and configured to discharge water from the housing. The open interior in fluid communication with the inlet of the housing and the outlet of the housing. The debris blocker further comprising a barrieradjacent the inlet. The barrier configured to move along a vertical extent of the housing between a first position and a second position. The barrier having a buoyancy in a standing body of water and configured to move between the first position and the second position depending on a condition of water in the housing. An upper portion of the barrier discouraging debris from floating from the open interior of the housing and through the inlet when the barrier is in the first position. The debris blocker further comprising a water permeable passage disposed between the barrier and the outlet. The water permeable passage configured to discourage passage of debris from the open interior of the housing to the outlet.

[0116] Example 12. The debris blocker of Example 11, wherein the barrier and the water permeable passage are configured to move relative to the inlet.

[0117] Example 13. The debris blocker of Example 12, wherein barrier and the water permeable passage are configured to move relative to each other.

[0118] Example 14. The debris blocker as in any of Examples 11-13, further comprising a filter basket having a basket side wall and a basket opening at one end. The basket opening in fluid communication with the inlet of the housing and configured to receive a flow of water and debris from the inlet.

[0119] Example 15. The debris blocker of Example 14, wherein the barrier is disposed between the inlet of the housing and the basket opening of the filter basket. The basket opening is in fluid communication with the water permeable passage.

[0120] Example 16. The debris blocker as in any one of Examples 14 and 15, wherein the barrier is moveably mounted to the basket side wall.

[0121] Example 17. The debris blocker as in any of Examples 14-16, wherein a bottom of the filter basket is positioned above the outlet of the housing when the filter basket is in the second position.

[0122] Example 18. The debris blocker as in any of Examples 14-17, wherein an abutment of the housing contacts a portion of the filter basket when the barrier is in the second position.

[0123] Example 19. The debris blocker as in any of Examples 11-18, further comprising a side wall of the housing having at least one of a mounting coupling and a pipe fitting.

[0124] Example 20. The debris blocker as in any of Examples 14-19, wherein the filter basket includes the water permeable passage. A flow path is defined from the inlet, past the barrier, through the basket opening, through the water permeable passage, and through the outlet of the housing when the barrier is in the second position.

[0125] Example 21. A debris blocker configured for installation to a liner of a pool is provided. The debris blocker comprising a housing having an inlet, an outlet, and an open interior. The inlet is on a first side of the housing and configured to receive a flow of water. The outlet located below the inlet and configured to discharge water from the housing. The open interior in fluid communication with the inlet of the housing and the outlet of the housing such that water received through the inlet is discharged through the outlet during operation of the debris blocker. The debris blocker further comprising a plurality of interface components on a second side of the housing and configured to extend through the liner of the pool.

[0126] Example 22. The debris blocker of Example 20, wherein the plurality of interface components include a mounting coupling and a fluid flow interface. The mounting coupling structured to be coupled to the liner of the pool and secure the debris blocker the liner. The fluid flow interface structured to flow the water received through the inlet and discharged through the outlet.

[0127] Example 23. The debris blocker as in any of Examples 21 and 22, wherein the plurality of interface components are configured to interface to the liner of the pool through a plurality of liner openings of the pool.

[0128] Example 24. The debris blocker as in any of Examples 21-23, wherein the second side of the housing is opposite the first side of the housing.

[0129] Example 25. The debris blocker as in any of Examples 21-24, wherein the plurality of interface components includes a mounting protrusion having a threaded surface and configured to engage a mounting coupler.

[0130] Example 26. The debris blocker as in any of Examples 21-25, wherein the plurality of interface components includes a pipe fitting configured to convey the water received from the inlet and discharged through the outlet.

[0131] Example 27. The debris blocker of Example 25, wherein the plurality of interface components includes a pipe fitting configured to convey the water received from the inlet and discharged through the outlet. The mounting protrusion extending through a first liner opening of the plurality of liner openings and the pipe fitting extending through a second liner opening of the plurality of liner openings.

[0132] Example 28. The debris blocker as in any of Examples 21-27, further comprising a barrier moveable along a vertical extent of the housing between a first position and a second position depending upon a state of water in the open interior of the housing. The first position discouraging debris from floating between the open interior of the housing and the inlet of the housing during operation of the debris blocker. In both the first position and the second position permitting water to flow from the inlet of the housing to the outlet of the housing during operation of the debris blocker.

[0133] Example 29. The debris blocker as in any of Examples 21-28, further comprising a member having a water permeable passage disposed between the inlet and the outlet of the housing.

[0134] Example 30. The debris blocker of Example 29, further comprising a filter basket including the barrier and the water permeable passage.

[0135] Example 31. The debris blocker of Example 30, wherein the filter basket includes a basket open interior defined by at least one side wall. The barrier defines an inlet to the basket open interior. The at least one side wall includes the water permeable passage. The water permeable passage defines an outlet of the filter basket.

[0136] Example 32. The debris blocker of Example 31, wherein the barrier is fixed relative to the at least one side wall of the filter basket.

[0137] Example 33. The debris blocker of Example 31, wherein the barrier is moveable relative to the at least one side wall of the filter basket.

[0138] Example 34. A debris blocker for floatable debris is provided. The debris blocker comprising a housing; and a filter basket. The housing is provided with an inlet and an outlet. The filter basket is disposed within the housing to filter and block debris from the fluid flowing from the inlet to the outlet. A side wall of the filter basket is provided with a barrier. At least one of the filter basket and the barrier is configured to float on a water surface within the housing causing the top end of the barrier to protrude above the water surface within the housing and preventing the floatable debris in the filter basket from floating out of the filter basket.

[0139] Example 35. The debris blocker according to Example 34, characterized in that the filter basket is configured to float on the water surface within the housing. The barrier is a flange provided at the top of the side wall of the filter basket.

[0140] Example 36. The debris blocker according to Example 34, characterized in that the barrier is movably mounted on the side wall of the filter basket in the vertical direction. The barrier is configured to float on the water surface of the housing.

[0141] Example 37. The debris blocker according to any one of Examples 34 to 36, characterized in that the barrier is one of a ring-shaped structure extending around the circumference of the filter basket and a segment of structure corresponding to the inlet of the housing to prevent the floatable debris in the filter basket from floating towards the inlet.

[0142] Example 38. The debris blocker according to Example 34, characterized in that the inlet is located at the top of the side wall of the housing. In the state where water is discharged from the outlet of the housing, the filter basket and the barrier are positioned below the inlet.

[0143] Example 39. The debris blocker according to Example 34, characterized in that the outlet is located at the bottom of the side wall of the housing. The lower end of the filter basket is positioned above the outlet.

[0144] Example 40. The debris blocker according to Example 34, characterized in that the outer side surface of the housing is provided with a mounting protrusion. The mounting protrusion is fitted with a sealing ring and is spirally engaged with a mounting nut to achieve the installation and fixation of the housing. The mounting protrusion and the outlet are located on the same side wall of the housing. The outer side surface of the housing is provided with a pipe fitting protruding from the outer side surface of the housing at the outlet.

[0145] Example 41. The debris blocker according to Example 34, characterized in that the top end of the housing is provided with an opening for the filter basket to enter and exit the housing. The opening of the housing is equipped with a closable cover. The filter basket is provided with a handle for lifting.

[0146] Example 42. A debris blocker positionable at a water line of water in a pool is provided. The debris blocker comprising a housing having an inlet, an outlet, and an interior. The debris blocker further comprising a filter basket positioned within and removable from the interior of the housing. The filter basket movable to a first position wherein in use a first portion of the filter basket is above the water line of the pool and a second portion of the filter basket is below the water line of the pool. The filter basket is further movable to a second position wherein in use the first portion of the filter basket is below the water line of the pool and the second portion of the filter basket is below the water line of the pool. The debris blocker further comprising a mount adapted to couple the housing to the pool. The mount positioning the housing so that in use the inlet is in fluid communication with the water of the pool.

[0147] Example 43. The debris blocker of Example 42, wherein the mount in use extends through a side wall of the pool.

[0148] Example 44. An above ground pool assembly for support on a ground surface is provided. The above ground pool comprising a base supported by the ground surface and at least one side wall extending upward from the base. The base and the at least one side water forming a water cavity. The debris blocker of one of Examples 1-43 in fluid communication with the water cavity.

[0149] Example 45. The above ground pool assembly of Example 44, wherein the debris blocker is supported by the at least one side wall.

[0150] Example 46. The above ground pool assembly of any one of Examples 44 and 45, wherein the debris blocker extends through the at least one side wall.

[0151] Example 47. The above ground pool assembly of any one of Examples 44-46, further comprising a pool frame and wherein the base and at least one side wall form a liner. An upper portion of the liner supported by the pool frame.

[0152] Example 48. The above ground pool assembly of Example 47, wherein the pool frame includes a plurality of spaced apart vertical supports and a plurality of horizontal supports which support the liner.

[0153] Example 49. The above ground pool assembly of Example 48, wherein the liner includes at least one pocket which receives the plurality of horizontal supports.

[0154] Example 50. The above ground pool assembly of any one of Examples 47-49, wherein the debris blocker is supported by the liner independent of the pool frame.

[0155] Example 51. The above ground pool assembly of any one of Examples 44-50, wherein a housing and a filter basket of the debris blocker is positioned within the water cavity.

[0156] Example 52. A pool device is provided. The pool device comprising a pool, a water-drawing mechanism, and a debris blocker according to any one of Examples 1-43. An inlet of a housing of the debris blocker is connected to an interior of the pool and an outlet of the housing of the debris blocker is connected to a water inlet end of the water-drawing mechanism. A water outlet end of the water-drawing mechanism is connected to the interior of the pool independent of the debris blocker.

[0157] Example 53. The pool device according to Example 52, wherein the housing is mounted on an inner side surface of the pool. The water-drawing mechanism is one of a water pump and a filter with a water-drawing function.

[0158] Example 54. A frame pool is provided. The frame pool comprising a plurality of frame pool members coupled to form a frame of a frame pool. The plurality of frame pool members arranged to provide an opening. The frame pool further comprising a liner and a debris blocker. The liner disposed in the opening formed by the plurality of frame pool members. The liner having a thickness and a liner opening formed through the thickness. The debris blocker constructed to skim floating objects from a standing body of water in the frame pool. The debris blocker including a housing fixed to the liner and having an inlet configured to be in fluid communication with the standing body of water in the frame pool. The debris blocker further including an outlet located below the inlet and configured to discharge water from the housing, and an open interior in fluid communication with the inlet of the housing and the outlet of the housing such that water received through the inlet is discharged through the outlet during operation of the debris blocker.

[0159] The above embodiments are only used to further illustrate the debris blocker and pool device of the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and embellishments made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present disclosure are all within the scope of protection of the technical solution of the present disclosure.

[0160] While this invention has been described as having exemplary designs, the present invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains and which fall within the limits of the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A debris blocker configured for installation in a pool, the debris blocker comprising: a housing having an open interior, an inlet configured to receive a flow of water, and an outlet located below the inlet and configured to discharge water from the housing, the open interior of the housing located between the inlet and the outlet; a filter basket disposed in the open interior of the housing, the filter basket having a water permeable construction configured to permit passage of water as water flows between the inlet of the housing and the outlet of the housing, the filter basket also including a barrier having an upper edge; wherein the filter basket is buoyant in a standing body of water, the filter basket having a waterline when buoyant in the standing body of water that demarcates between a portion of the filter basket submerged in the standing body of water and a portion of the filter basket above the standing body of water, the upper edge of the barrier located above the waterline of the filter basket; and wherein the open interior of the housing is configured to permit the filter basket to move between a first position and a second position along a vertical extent of the housing depending on a water flow state of the debris blocker, the first position located above the second position.

2. The debris blocker of claim 1, wherein the filter basket includes a basket side wall defining a basket open interior, the barrier positioned above the basket side wall and configured to move with the basket side wall as the filter basket moves between the first position and the second position.

3. The debris blocker as in any of the preceding claims, wherein the barrier is moveable relative to the basket open interior.

4. The debris blocker as in any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the barrier is fixed relative to the basket open interior.

5. The debris blocker as in any of the preceding claims, wherein the housing includes an abutment configured to contact the filter basket to define the second position.

6. The debris blocker as in any of the preceding claims, wherein the housing includes an abutment configured to contact the filter basket to define the second position, wherein the first position is a buoyant position of the filter basket when the debris blocker is in a non-flowing state and the second position is in a flowing state.

7. The debris blocker of claim 6, further comprising a pump configured to pull water from the inlet of the housing to the outlet of the housing in the flowing state.

8. The debris blocker as in any of the preceding claims, wherein the housing includes a mounting coupling configured to couple the housing to a liner of the pool.

9. The debris blocker of claim 8, wherein the mounting coupling is a mounting protrusion extending from a side wall of the housing and having a threaded surface configured to receive a mounting coupler.

10. The debris blocker as in any of the preceding claims, wherein the housing includes a pipe fitting extending from a wall of the housing, the pipe fitting including an internal passage in fluid communication with the outlet of the housing.

11. A debris blocker configured for installation in a pool, the debris blocker comprising: a housing having an inlet configured to receive a flow of water, an outlet located below the inlet and configured to discharge water from the housing, and an open interior in fluid communication with the inlet of the housing and the outlet of the housing;a barrier adjacent the inlet and configured to move along a vertical extent of the housing between a first position and a second position, the barrier having a buoyancy in a standing body of water and configured to move between the first position and the second position depending on a condition of water in the housing, an upper portion of the barrier discouraging debris from floating from the open interior of the housing and through the inlet when the barrier is in the first position; and a water permeable passage disposed between the barrier and the outlet and configured to discourage passage of debris from the open interior of the housing to the outlet.

12. The debris blocker of claim 11, wherein the barrier and the water permeable passage are configured to move relative to the inlet.

13. The debris blocker of claim 12, wherein barrier and the water permeable passage are configured to move relative to each other.

14. The debris blocker as in any of claims 11-13, further comprising a filter basket having a basket side wall and a basket opening at one end, the basket opening in fluid communication with the inlet of the housing and configured to receive a flow of water and debris from the inlet.

15. The debris blocker of claim 14, wherein the barrier is disposed between the inlet of the housing and the basket opening of the filter basket, and wherein the basket opening is in fluid communication with the water permeable passage.

16. The debris blocker as in any one of claims 14 and 15, wherein the barrier is moveably mounted to the basket side wall.

17. The debris blocker as in any of claims 14-16, wherein a bottom of the filter basket is positioned above the outlet of the housing when the filter basket is in the second position.

18. The debris blocker as in any of claims 14-17, wherein an abutment of the housing contacts a portion of the filter basket when the barrier is in the second position.

19. The debris blocker as in any of claims 11-18, further comprising a side wall of the housing having at least one of a mounting coupling and a pipe fitting.

20. The debris blocker as in any of claims 14-19, wherein the filter basket includes the water permeable passage, and wherein a flow path is defined from the inlet, past the barrier, through the basket opening, through the water permeable passage, and through the outlet of the housing when the barrier is in the second position.

21. A debris blocker configured for installation to a liner of a pool, the debris blocker comprising: a housing having an inlet on a first side of the housing configured to receive a flow of water, an outlet located below the inlet and configured to discharge water from the housing, and an open interior in fluid communication with the inlet of the housing and the outlet of the housing such that water received through the inlet is discharged through the outlet during operation of the debris blocker; and a plurality of interface components on a second side of the housing and configured to extend through the liner of the pool.

22. The debris blocker of claim 20, wherein the plurality of interface components include a mounting coupling and a fluid flow interface, the mounting coupling structured to be coupled to the liner of the pool and secure the debris blocker the liner, the fluid flow interface structured to flow the water received through the inlet and discharged through the outlet.

23. The debris blocker as in any of claims 21 and 22, wherein the plurality of interface components are configured to interface to the liner of the pool through a plurality of liner openings of the pool.

24. The debris blocker as in any of claims 21-23, wherein the second side of the housing is opposite the first side of the housing.

25. The debris blocker as in any of claims 21-24, wherein the plurality of interface components includes a mounting protrusion having a threaded surface and configured to engage a mounting coupler.

26. The debris blocker as in any of claims 21-25, wherein the plurality of interface components includes a pipe fitting configured to convey the water received from the inlet and discharged through the outlet.

27. The debris blocker of claim 25, wherein the plurality of interface components includes a pipe fitting configured to convey the water received from the inlet and discharged through the outlet, the mounting protrusion extending through a first liner opening of the plurality of liner openings and the pipe fitting extending through a second liner opening of the plurality of liner openings.

28. The debris blocker as in any of claims 21-27, further comprising a barrier moveable along a vertical extent of the housing between a first position and a second position depending upon a state of water in the open interior of the housing, the first position discouraging debris from floating between the open interior of the housing and the inlet of the housing during operation of the debris blocker and in both the first position and the second position permitting water to flow from the inlet of the housing to the outlet of the housing during operation of the debris blocker.

29. The debris blocker as in any of claims 21-28, further comprising a member having a water permeable passage disposed between the inlet and the outlet of the housing.

30. The debris blocker of claim 29, further comprising a filter basket including the barrier and the water permeable passage.

31. The debris blocker of claim 30, wherein the filter basket includes a basket open interior defined by at least one side wall, wherein the barrier defines an inlet to the basket open interior, wherein the at least one side wall includes the water permeable passage, and wherein the water permeable passage defines an outlet of the filter basket.

32. The debris blocker of claim 31, wherein the barrier is fixed relative to the at least one side wall of the filter basket.

33. The debris blocker of claim 31, wherein the barrier is moveable relative to the at least one side wall of the filter basket.

34. A debris blocker for floatable debris, comprising: a housing; and a filter basket, wherein the housing is provided with an inlet and an outlet, and the filter basket is disposed within the housing to filter and block debris from the fluid flowing from the inlet to the outlet; a side wall of the filter basket is provided with a barrier, and at least one of the filter basket and the barrier is configured to float on a water surface within the housing, causing the top end of the barrier to protrude above the water surface within the housing and preventing the floatable debris in the filter basket from floating out of the filter basket.

35. The debris blocker according to claim 34, characterized in that the filter basket is configured to float on the water surface within the housing, and the barrier is a flange provided at the top of the side wall of the filter basket.

36. The debris blocker according to claim 34, characterized in that the barrier is movably mounted on the side wall of the filter basket in the vertical direction and is configured to float on the water surface of the housing.

37. The debris blocker according to any one of claims 34 to 36, characterized in that the barrier is one of a ring-shaped structure extending around the circumference of the filter basket and the barrier is a segment of structure corresponding to the inlet of the housing, to prevent the floatable debris in the filter basket from floating towards the inlet.

38. The debris blocker according to claim 34, characterized in that the inlet is located at the top of the side wall of the housing, and in the state where water is discharged from the outlet of the housing, the filter basket and the barrier are positioned below the inlet.

39. The debris blocker according to claim 34, characterized in that the outlet is located at the bottom of the side wall of the housing, and the lower end of the filter basket is positioned above the outlet.

40. The debris blocker according to claim 34, characterized in that the outer side surface of the housing is provided with a mounting protrusion, the mounting protrusion is fitted with a sealing ring and is spirally engaged with a mounting nut to achieve the installation and fixation of the housing; the mounting protrusion and the outlet are located on the same side wall of the housing, and the outer side surface of the housing is provided with a pipe fitting protruding from the outer side surface of the housing at the outlet.

41. The debris blocker according to claim 34, characterized in that the top end of the housing is provided with an opening for the filter basket to enter and exit the housing, and the opening of the housing is equipped with a closable cover, the filter basket is provided with a handle for lifting.

42. A debris blocker positionable at a water line of water in a pool, comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet, the housing having an interior; a filter basket positioned within and removable from the interior of the housing, the filter basket movable to a first position wherein in use a first portion of the filter basket is above the water line of the pool and a second portion of the filter basket is below the water line of the pool and a second position wherein in use the first portion of the filter basket is below the water line of the pool and the second portion of the filter basket is below the water line of the pool; and a mount adapted to couple the housing to the pool, the mount positioning the housing so that in use the inlet is in fluid communication with the water of the pool.

43. The debris blocker of claim 42, wherein the mount in use extends through a side wall of the pool.

44. An above ground pool assembly for support on a ground surface, comprising: a base supported by the ground surface and at least one side wall extending upward from the base, the base and the at least one side water forming a water cavity; and the debris blocker of one of claim 1-43 in fluid communication with the water cavity.

45. The above ground pool assembly of claim 44, wherein the debris blocker is supported by the at least one side wall.

46. The above ground pool assembly of any one of claims 44 and 45, wherein the debris blocker extends through the at least one side wall.

47. The above ground pool assembly of any one of claims 44-46, further comprising a pool frame and wherein the base and at least one side wall form a liner, an upper portion of the liner supported by the pool frame.

48. The above ground pool assembly of claim 47, wherein the pool frame includes a plurality of spaced apart vertical supports and a plurality of horizontal supports which support the liner.

49. The above ground pool assembly of claim 48, wherein the liner includes at least one pocket which receives the plurality of horizontal supports.

50. The above ground pool assembly of any one of claims 47-49, wherein the debris blocker is supported by the liner independent of the pool frame.

51. The above ground pool assembly of any one of claims 44-50, wherein a housing and a filter basket of the debris blocker is positioned within the water cavity.

52. A pool device, comprising a pool, a water-drawing mechanism, and a debris blocker according to any one of claims 1-43, wherein an inlet of a housing of the debris blocker is connected to an interior of the pool and an outlet of the housing of the debris blocker is connected to a water inlet end of the water-drawing mechanism, a water outlet end of the waterdrawing mechanism is connected to the interior of the pool independent of the debris blocker.

53. The pool device according to claim 52, wherein the housing is mounted on an inner side surface of the pool, and the water-drawing mechanism is one of a water pump and a filter with a water-drawing function.

54. A frame pool comprising: a plurality of frame pool members coupled to form a frame of a frame pool, the plurality of frame pool members arranged to provide an opening; a liner disposed in the opening formed by the plurality of frame pool members, the liner having a thickness and a liner opening formed through the thickness; and a debris blocker constructed to skim floating objects from a standing body of water in the frame pool, the debris blocker including a housing fixed to the liner and having an inletconfigured to be in fluid communication with the standing body of water in the frame pool, an outlet located below the inlet and configured to discharge water from the housing, and an open interior in fluid communication with the inlet of the housing and the outlet of the housing such that water received through the inlet is discharged through the outlet during operation of the debris blocker.

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