Modular Pool Brackets With Internal Triangulated Framing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular pool systems face challenges with structural integrity, particularly in larger sizes, requiring excessive space for bracing and being cumbersome for assembly, repair, and modification, with a risk of catastrophic failure due to high-stress loads and complex designs.
Innovation Solution
A modular pool system utilizing wrap-around brackets with vertical beams and lateral members that distribute stress evenly, eliminating the need for external bracing and allowing for easy assembly and modification, featuring a pool frame design that can be customized in size and shape with replaceable wall panels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If modular pools use external bracing or buttresses to support larger sizes, then structural strength is improved, but the footprint area increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional external bracing to three-dimensional internal triangulated framing. The bracing elements are positioned inside the pool structure, utilizing the third dimension (vertical space within the pool walls) to provide structural support without increasing the horizontal footprint. This internal triangulated framework distributes loads through multiple geometric planes, achieving enhanced strength while maintaining a compact footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent embeds the bracing and support structures within the pool's wall assemblies. The triangulated bracing is nested inside the wall cavities and structural layers, with multiple functional elements (structural support, insulation, cladding) nested within each other. This nesting approach allows the bracing to provide structural strength while occupying space that would otherwise be unused, avoiding any increase in external footprint.
2Strength
If modular pools use high-precision parts and numerous fasteners to achieve structural integrity, then strength is improved, but device complexity and ease of assembly deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the pool structure into discrete modular panels, each containing a complete triangulated bracing system. These panels can be manufactured with precision in a controlled environment and then assembled on-site using simple connection mechanisms. The segmentation allows complex structural features to be distributed across multiple simple modules rather than requiring one complex monolithic structure with numerous fasteners.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs adjustable and adaptable connection systems that can accommodate minor variations in panel dimensions and alignment during assembly. The triangulated bracing includes flexible connection points and adjustable fastening mechanisms that allow workers to assemble the structure without requiring high-precision alignment, thereby reducing assembly complexity while maintaining structural integrity.
3Ease of manufacture
If single sheet pools are used to simplify construction, then ease of manufacture is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to catastrophic failure risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the single continuous sheet with multiple discrete panels separated by structural joints and triangulated bracing. This segmentation creates redundancy in the structure - if one panel or section fails, the failure is contained locally and does not propagate catastrophically through the entire pool. The modular panel design maintains construction simplicity while dramatically improving reliability through distributed structural support.
Solution Approach 2:
The triangulated bracing system acts as a preventive measure built into the panel design before assembly. The geometric triangulation provides inherent structural stability and load distribution that prevents stress concentrations that could lead to catastrophic failure. This pre-engineered cushioning against potential failure modes allows the pool to maintain simplicity while achieving high reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Described are pool brackets for use in assembling a pool frame for a pool. The pool brackets may be used as a primary building block for constructing free-standing rectangular cuboid swimming pools. Also described are pool frames, pools, panels, including non-homogenous multi-function wall panels; and, kits for assembling pool brackets, pool frames, and pools.