Swimming Pool Cover Base Element Axial Displacement Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing swimming pool cover technologies are costly, prone to leaks, and allow axial displacement of individual elements, which affects their functionality and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A closure arrangement featuring base elements with hollow chambers connected via a connecting means and a latching element, where the latching element is positioned at an acute angle to the connecting device, preventing axial displacement and ensuring a secure, cost-effective, and visually appealing solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If roller shutter slats are produced with hollow chambers sealed at the free ends and assembled with coupling bars, then the swimming pool cover can float on the water surface, but the production costs increase due to expensive materials and complex assembly requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the hollow chamber structure with the connecting means into a single integrated base element. The connecting means with hook elements and latching elements are formed as one piece with the hollow chamber, eliminating the need for separate coupling bars and reducing assembly steps while maintaining the floating functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The base element serves multiple functions: it provides the hollow chamber for buoyancy, contains the connecting means for joining adjacent elements, and incorporates the latching mechanism for securing the connection. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies manufacturing.
2Ease of operation
If coupling bars with slot-like openings are used to connect roller shutter slats, then the slats can be assembled, but additional securing measures are required to prevent longitudinal displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting means integrates the coupling bar function with the latching mechanism into a single component. The hook elements engage with the opening while the latching elements provide automatic securing, eliminating the need for separate securing measures and reducing connection complexity.
3Reliability
If individual hollow chambers are provided with sealing devices consisting of piston plates and permanently elastic fillers, then the chambers can be sealed, but the manufacturing complexity and costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is integrated into the wall structure of the hollow chamber itself. The wall is formed as a continuous liquid-tight barrier without requiring separate piston plates or elastic fillers, significantly simplifying manufacturing while maintaining sealing reliability.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the latching element is positioned at an acute angle to the connecting device, then axial displacement of base elements is prevented, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latching element is positioned asymmetrically at an acute angle relative to the connecting device rather than symmetrically. This asymmetric positioning creates a mechanical interlock that prevents axial displacement while using a simple geometric relationship that does not significantly increase structural complexity.
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 solution effectively secures base elements against axial displacement, reducing production costs and ensuring leak-proof functionality while maintaining buoyancy and thermal insulation, making it suitable for existing leaky swimming pool covers.
Implementation Method 1
each base element (2) having a hollow chamber (5)
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a closure arrangement for covering open containers with a liquid contained therein, in particular for covering swimming pools, comprising at least two base elements, wherein the base element has a hollow chamber, wherein at least one base element is movably connected at least partially with one of its longitudinal sides to a longitudinal side opposite this of an adjacent base element via at least one connecting means and has at least one connecting device on the longitudinal side opposite the longitudinal side connected with the connecting means, wherein the connecting device has at least one leg, which is characterized in that the connecting device has at least one locking element which is in operative connection with the connecting means.