Modular Pool Cover System with Segmented Beams

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for covering pools are either time-consuming, damage the pool structure, or require significant space and planning for storage, and existing solutions like modular structures still pose challenges in terms of installation speed and aesthetics.

Innovation Solution

A pool covering system that assembles across the pool without embedded mounting features, providing a temporary cover and floor that is flush with the surrounding structure, allowing for efficient installation and removal without draining the pool, and can be stored compactly when not in use, using a series of brackets and beams that support a flooring surface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a permanent retractable floor is installed, then the pool area can be covered, but significant space is required to house the floor adjacent to the pool and equipment to move the flooring surface

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepool covering capabilityVSAvoidstorage space

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The pool cover is divided into multiple segments or panels that can be stored in a compact configuration adjacent to the pool. Each segment is independently supportable, allowing the cover to be collapsed into a space-efficient storage position while maintaining full coverage capability when deployed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The pool cover segments are designed to nest within each other when not in use, similar to nested dolls. The segments can be stacked or folded into a compact arrangement that minimizes storage space requirements while preserving the ability to expand to full coverage when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If scaffolding and supports are used to build a floor, then the pool can be covered, but significant time is required for draining and building the supported floor

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepool covering capabilityVSAvoidinstallation time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The pool cover is pre-assembled into modular sections that can be quickly deployed without requiring on-site construction of supports or scaffolding. The pre-fabricated nature of the components eliminates time-consuming assembly steps and allows for rapid installation directly over the pool surface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The invention extracts and eliminates the need for scaffolding and complex support structures entirely. The pool cover is designed to be self-supporting through its own structural integrity and distribution of loads, removing the time-consuming process of building and installing separate support systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Adaptability or versatility

If scaffolding and supports are used to build a floor, then the pool can be covered, but the scaffolding and supports may cause damage to the pool's bottom surface or liner

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepool covering capabilityVSAvoidpool structure damage

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The invention completely removes the need for scaffolding and intrusive support structures that contact the pool's bottom surface. The pool cover is designed to span and support itself without requiring any attachments to or contact with the pool liner or bottom, thereby eliminating the risk of damage to these sensitive components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The pool cover utilizes a flexible yet structurally sufficient design that can span the pool opening without rigid supports. The thin film or shell structure distributes loads evenly and avoids concentrated forces that could damage the pool liner or bottom surface, providing protection without intrusion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

4Adaptability or versatility

If modular structures are used to cover the pool, then the pool can be covered, but the surface is at a higher level than the surrounding area, requiring people to step up and down

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepool covering capabilityVSAvoidaccessibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The pool cover is designed to be substantially flush with the surrounding pool deck or ground level. The support structure and flooring are configured to create a level transition between the cover surface and the adjacent area, eliminating the need for steps or ramps and providing seamless accessibility across the entire surface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #12Equipotentiality

Data Source

PatentUS12018507B2Temporary pool cover and floor system

Publication Date: 2024.06.25 COLHURST CONCEPTS LLC

AI summary

The innovation relates to a pool covering system that is usable as a flooring surface. The pool covering system includes brackets that support beams spanning the pool opening. The beams provide structural support to cross members and flooring placed on top of the beams. The pool covering system does not require significant drainage of the pool and does not damage the pool structure during installation and use.