Perimeter Buffer Tubes for Space-Saving Pool Water Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing swimming pool installations with underground recovery tanks require dedicated ground space and excavation, increasing installation costs and impacting the aesthetic and functional layout.
Innovation Solution
Integrate buffer tubes for water storage around the perimeter of an in-ground or semi-in-ground swimming pool, supported by structural elements that also reinforce the pool, allowing simultaneous construction and burial, reducing space requirements and eliminating the need for separate excavation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If underground recovery tanks are used for water storage, then water storage capacity is achieved, but dedicated ground space is required and excavation work increases installation cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the pool support structure with the water storage tank structure. The tank is integrated into the pool construction by using the same excavation space and structural support elements, merging two separate functions (pool support and water storage) into a single unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure serves dual purposes: it provides mechanical support for the swimming pool while simultaneously serving as the structural framework for the water storage tank. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate structures and reduces overall ground space requirements.
2Quantity of substance
If underground recovery tanks are used for water storage, then water storage capacity is achieved, but excavation and burial work increases installation cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the construction timelines and operations for both the pool and water storage system. By integrating the tank construction into the pool construction process, single excavation and burial operations serve both structures, reducing redundant work and installation costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The water storage tank is constructed simultaneously with the pool during the initial construction phase, rather than as a subsequent addition. This preliminary integration allows shared preparation work and eliminates the need for separate excavation and installation operations later.
3Volume of stationary object
If buffer tubes are positioned around the pool basin, then space for water storage is optimized, but structural support requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is designed to fulfill multiple roles: it provides mechanical support for the swimming pool basin while simultaneously serving as the structural framework for the water storage tank. This eliminates the need for additional dedicated support structures for the tank.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the support functions for both the pool and water storage system into a single integrated structural framework. The same structural elements that support the pool also support the tank, optimizing material usage and structural efficiency.
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
Combines recreational pool use with efficient water storage and distribution, optimizing space utilization and reducing installation costs by integrating water storage and structural support in a single construction phase.
Implementation Method 1
buffer tubes (4) used for water storage
Implementation Method 2
hydraulic distribution system which is fluidly connected to the buffer tubes and which is equipped with at least one distribution pump to distribute the water stored in the buffer tubes
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Swimming pool installation (1) comprising: - perimeter walls of the pool (20) arranged around a bottom wall of the pool (21) to internally delimit a pool (2); - support elements (3) fixed externally to the perimeter walls of the pool and arranged around the pool; - buffer tubes (4) used for water storage and which are supported by the support elements so as to extend around the pool; - a water recovery network (6), for example for rainwater and/or wastewater recovery, which is fluidly connected to the buffer tubes in order to fill them with water; and - a hydraulic distribution system which is fluidly connected to the buffer tubes and which is equipped with at least one distribution pump (70) to distribute the water stored in the buffer tubes (4).