Plastic T-Joint Structure for Corrosion-Resistant Pool Frames
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing T-shaped joints in above ground pool frames are prone to galling and corrosion, and are relatively wide, requiring large holes or gaps in pool liners, which affects the pool's appearance and water containment.
Innovation Solution
A T-shaped joint constructed of plastic with a minimized size, where the vertical joint portion accounts for at least 50% of the width between the horizontal joint portions, facilitating easy assembly and disassembly while resisting corrosion and improving appearance and water containment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal T-shaped joints are used, then the joint provides structural strength, but the joint is susceptible to galling and corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from metal to plastic (specifically polyethylene or similar polymers), which fundamentally alters the chemical and physical properties of the joint. This material substitution eliminates galvanic corrosion, galling, and rust while maintaining adequate structural strength through the plastic's inherent properties and design features.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint employs composite construction by integrating multiple plastic components (horizontal joint portions, vertical joint portion, coupling assemblies) into a unified plastic structure. This composite approach allows optimization of each component's geometry and material properties to achieve both strength and corrosion resistance simultaneously.
2Ease of operation
If existing T-shaped joints are used, then the joint provides adequate connection, but the joint is relatively wide requiring large holes in pool liners
Solution Approach 1:
The joint is divided into distinct segmented components: first and second horizontal joint portions with coupling assemblies, and a vertical joint portion. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, enabling a more compact overall configuration that reduces the required liner hole size while maintaining connection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the joint's dimensional configuration by ensuring the vertical joint portion width accounts for at least 50% of the width between coupling assemblies. This dimensional redistribution creates a more space-efficient design that minimizes the horizontal footprint and reduces the required liner hole area.
Data Source
AI summary
A frame pool is disclosed including a frame assembly and a pool liner, the frame assembly including horizontal frame members and a vertical frame member coupled together via a T-shaped joint. The T-shaped joint may be constructed of plastic to facilitate attachment and detachment to the adjacent frame members and to resist galling and corrosion. The T-shaped joint may also be relatively small to improve the appearance and water containment of the frame pool.