Swimming Pool Coping Molding System with Adaptor and Removal Tool
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing molding systems for swimming pool copings lack an efficient and adaptable solution for molding the top surface, particularly in conjunction with pool cover tracks, and do not provide a straightforward method for removal after concrete setting.
Innovation Solution
A molding system comprising an adaptor with a front wall, upper and lower portions forming a channel, a back panel with clips, and a spacer with a cantilever spring, along with a tool for removing the system, allowing for secure molding and easy disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a molding system is designed to fit within a pool cover track, then the molding precision and adaptability are improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for adaptors and clips
Solution Approach 1:
The molding system is divided into separate modular components: an adaptor that fits within the pool cover track, clips that attach the back panel to the adaptor, and a removable molding system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall system adaptability and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
An adaptor serves as an intermediary component between the pool cover track and the molding system. The adaptor is positioned within the track and provides a mounting surface for the back panel, enabling the molding system to interface with the track without direct complex integration.
2Reliability
If the molding system uses clips and spacers for secure attachment, then the reliability of molding is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to multiple assembly steps
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is segmented into discrete clips and spacers that can be independently assembled. The clips attach the back panel to the adaptor, while spacers provide positioning and spacing. This modular approach allows for reliable attachment while maintaining relatively simple assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The clips are designed to automatically engage with the adaptor when the back panel is positioned correctly, reducing the need for complex fastening operations. The spring-loaded clips self-adjust to secure the panel in place.
3Ease of operation
If the molding system is designed for easy removal after concrete setting, then the ease of operation is improved, but the strength of attachment during molding may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the attachment function (clips and spacers) from the permanent bonding function (concrete setting). The clips provide sufficient holding strength during molding, while the segmented design allows for clean removal after the concrete has set, leaving no damage to the pool liner.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system transitions from a removable state (during installation and molding) to a permanent state (after concrete setting). The clips and spacers are designed to be easily removed once the concrete has cured, providing dynamic adaptability to the different stages of the process.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the adaptor includes upper and lower portions forming a channel, then the adaptability to different track configurations is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptor with its upper and lower portions forming a channel is designed to universally fit within pool cover tracks of various configurations. The channel structure provides a standardized interface that can accommodate different track types while maintaining consistent attachment characteristics.
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
The system enables precise molding of the swimming pool coping top surface, including pool cover tracks, and facilitates easy removal without damaging the pool liner, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
Implementation Method 1
The cantilever spring, in some embodiments, includes a free end and a fixed end, the fixed end connected to a top of a front support. In some embodiments, the spacer further includes a base connected to a bottom of the front support, the cantilever spring being configured to abut against the upper portion of the adaptor, and the base being configured to abut against the lower portion of the adaptor when the spacer is positioned in the channel.
Data Source
AI summary
A molding system for a swimming pool coping having a track for receiving a pool cover includes an adaptor configured to be positioned at least partially within the track, the adaptor having a front wall, a lower portion extending from the front wall, an upper portion extending from the front wall, and an upper flange extending from the upper portion. The molding system may further include a spacer configured to be at least partially positioned between and abut against the lower portion and the upper portion of the adaptor. A tool for removing a molding system includes a blade having a top surface, a bottom surface, and an edge, a base connected to the blade opposite the edge having an abutment arranged substantially coplanar with the bottom surface, and a handle connected to the blade disposed along an axis that is obliquely angled with respect to the bottom surface.