Conical Formation Aids for Swimming Pool Concrete Receptacles
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for installing swimming pool water circulation systems face challenges such as unpredictable concrete removal for plumbing fittings, debris accumulation in weep holes, steel oxidation leading to structural issues, and protection of light fixtures during construction, which result in inefficiencies, structural weaknesses, and increased maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
The use of three-dimensional formation aids made of materials like cardboard or wax-coated cardboard, designed to create precise receptacles and weep holes, prevent debris entry, and protect plumbing and lighting components, ensuring predictable concrete application and structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional methods are used to create receptacles for plumbing fittings, then the installation process is simpler, but the concrete removal becomes unpredictable and compromises pool structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by placing formworks (cardboard or wax-coated cardboard structures) into the concrete before it sets. These formworks pre-defined the exact shape and location of receptacles for plumbing fittings, drains, and returns. When the concrete hardens, the formworks are removed, leaving precisely shaped receptacles without needing to chip or carve away concrete later, thus maintaining structural integrity while achieving manufacturing precision.
2Reliability
If weep holes are left open during construction, then water can drain properly, but debris accumulates and causes structural issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the taking out principle by removing the harmful element (debris and oxidation risk) from the system. Debris protection plugs made of cardboard or wax-coated cardboard are inserted into weep holes to prevent debris from entering while allowing water to drain. These plugs are temporarily placed during construction and removed before the pool is filled for final use, thus extracting the harmful debris accumulation aspect while preserving the water drainage function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If light fixtures are installed early to enable lighting features, then the pool can be used in evening, but the fixtures are exposed to construction debris and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by taking preventive measures against harmful factors before they can cause damage. Debris protection plugs are inserted into light fixture openings and receptacles before construction activities proceed. These plugs create a barrier that prevents construction debris, concrete, and other harmful materials from entering and damaging the light fixtures. The plugs remain in place throughout the construction process and are removed only after the pool is complete and ready for final lighting installation, thus protecting the fixtures while preserving the adaptability for evening pool usage.
Data Source
AI summary
A formation aid, for use in the forming of receptacles in a swimming pool, includes a three-dimensional body having an essentially conical shape. The three-dimensional body of the formation aid includes a narrow end, for placement near an interior edge of the swimming pool during formation of the swimming pool; and a wide end, for placement remote from the interior edge of the swimming pool, in order to form a receptacle.