Frame Pool Coupling Assembly With Sealed Quick-Lock Joint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing frame pools suffer from corrosion due to water infiltration through gaps between supports and T-joints, and the connection mechanism is complicated, leading to rusting and difficult assembly/disassembly.
Innovation Solution
A coupling assembly with a collar and limiting member that securely connects horizontal and vertical supports to T-joints, featuring a tubular body and guide to facilitate quick assembly and disassembly, while a sheath seals gaps to prevent water intrusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If insertion pins are used to connect supports to T-joints, then the connection is secured, but water can still enter through the through hole causing corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the through hole from the connection structure by using a pin that inserts into a blind hole (dead end hole) rather than a through hole. This extraction of the harmful through-hole feature eliminates the direct water passage while maintaining the mechanical connection function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a sealing element (such as a rubber grommet or O-ring) as an intermediary between the pin and the hole. This sealing mediator blocks water infiltration paths while allowing the pin to maintain its structural connection function.
2Strength
If traditional connection methods are used, then the frame assembly is secure, but assembly and disassembly become unnecessarily complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into modular components: a pin element, a blind hole receptacle, and optional sealing elements. This segmentation allows for simple insertion and removal operations while maintaining structural integrity through the interlocking design.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism transitions from a static, complex multi-component system to a dynamic, simple insert-remove system. The pin can be easily inserted into the blind hole and locked into place, then just as easily removed, providing both security and operational simplicity.
3Device complexity
If supports are directly connected to T-joints without protective measures, then the structure is simple, but corrosion occurs due to water and friction damage to anti-rust coating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies protective measures beforehand by incorporating sealing elements and using blind hole designs that prevent water from reaching the metal surfaces. This prior cushioning against water infiltration protects the anti-rust coating from damage before corrosion can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses flexible sealing elements (such as rubber grommets or thin film seals) that conform to the connection interfaces. These flexible seals create water-tight barriers while allowing for slight movements and maintaining the simplicity of the overall connection structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A frame assembly for a frame pool and a frame pool including a frame assembly are provided. The frame assembly includes a horizontal support, a vertical support, a T-joint, and a coupling assembly releasably connecting a corresponding one of the horizontal support or the vertical support to the T-joint. The coupling assembly includes a collar having a tubular body. In some embodiments, a guide extends outwardly from the tubular body, and a limiting member moves through the guide between a locked position and an unlocked position to selectively retain the corresponding one of the horizontal support or the vertical support to the T-joint. In some embodiments, the limiting member is integrally formed with the tubular body and movable between the unlocked and locked positions to selectively retain the corresponding one of the horizontal support or the vertical support to the T-joint.