Pool Agitator System Integrating Return Conduit to Prevent Leaks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional agitator systems for pools are prone to leaks due to separate plumbing systems, increasing the likelihood of leaks over time.

Innovation Solution

An agitator system connected to a pool perimeter assembly with a return conduit that receives pressurized filtered water from the pool filtration system, using a fluid delivery structure to direct water both onto the pool surface and back into the pool through return outlets, eliminating the need for separate tap water plumbing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a separate tap water plumbing system is used for the agitator assembly, then the agitator can receive water independently, but the likelihood of leaks increases over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependent water supplyVSAvoidleak resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the agitator assembly's water supply with the pool's existing filtration system by connecting the agitator to the return line. This eliminates the need for a separate tap water plumbing system while ensuring reliable operation, as the filtration system's plumbing is already proven and maintained.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The return line from the filtration system serves dual purposes: it returns filtered water to the pool and simultaneously supplies water to the agitator assembly. This multi-functional use of existing infrastructure reduces complexity and potential failure points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If tap water is used for the agitator system, then water supply is readily available, but a secondary plumbing system increases leak risks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewater supply availabilityVSAvoidplumbing system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the agitator water supply function with the existing filtration system's return line, eliminating the need for a separate secondary plumbing system. This reduces overall system complexity while maintaining ease of operation through the reliable filtration infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of manufacture

If the agitator system uses separate plumbing, then installation is straightforward, but maintenance complexity increases due to additional leak points

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidmaintenance complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the agitator assembly into the existing filtration system's return line, reducing the total number of plumbing connections and potential leak points. This simplifies both initial installation and ongoing maintenance, as there are fewer components to inspect and repair.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution reduces the risk of leaks by integrating the agitator system with the pool's existing filtration system, ensuring a reliable and efficient water supply while maintaining clear pool surfaces for divers.

Implementation Method 1

The spray port is located on the pool perimeter assembly and is configured for directing a water spray onto the water surface of the pool

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid spray: Fluid Spray

Implementation Method 2

The return conduit is in fluid communication with the pool filtration system for receiving filtered water under pressure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure-driven flow: Pressure Gradient

Data Source

PatentUS11149456B2Pool perimeter and water agitator system and assembly
Publication Date: 2021.10.19 PADDOCK POOL EQUIP
  • US11149456B2 patent drawing
  • US11149456B2 patent drawing
  • US11149456B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An agitator system for a diving station that directs water flow from the perimeter of a pool onto a water surface of the pool, where the agitator system is connected to a pool perimeter assembly having a return conduit for receiving pressurized water, and the return conduit has at least one return outlet, includes a spray port and a fluid delivery system. The spray port is located on the pool perimeter assembly and is configured for directing a water spray onto the water surface of the pool. The fluid delivery structure is in downstream fluid communication from the return conduit and in upstream fluid communication with the spray port. A first portion of the pressurized water in the return conduit is communicated to the spray port via the fluid delivery structure, and a second portion of the pressurized water is delivered to the return outlet for dispersing to the pool.