Pool Cover Fixing Mechanism with Segmented Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Above-ground or semi-underground pools intended for children require a secure cover mechanism that prevents easy removal by children while ensuring reliability over time.
Innovation Solution
A cover fixing system comprising a cover reel, a first element for inserting the cover between the coping and the upper rim, a second locking element for securing the cover, and a third locking element with toggle mechanisms and flaps that allow the coping to move between raised and lowered positions, ensuring the cover is locked in place when in use and can be easily removed for cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple cover fixing mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of preventing children from accessing the pool deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cover fixing mechanism is divided into multiple independent elements: a first element for inserting the cover, a second locking element for securing the cover, and a third locking element for the coping. Each element performs a specific function, and the combination creates a multi-stage security system that is reliable yet manageable in complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coping is designed to be movable between a raised position (for cover installation/removal) and a lowered position (for locking and safety). This dynamic element allows the system to transition between different operational states, providing both ease of maintenance and high reliability during normal operation.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented, then the reliability of cover fixation is improved, but the ease of operation for cover removal and installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coping can be moved between raised and lowered positions. When raised, the locking elements are disengaged, allowing easy cover installation and removal. When lowered, the locking elements engage automatically, providing secure fixation. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction between secure locking and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking elements are pre-positioned on the coping and upper rim structure. Before cover installation, the coping is raised to a position where the locking elements are out of the way. After cover placement, the coping is lowered and the locking elements automatically engage, providing preliminary secured action without requiring complex manual locking operations.
3Reliability
If the coping is fixed in a lowered position, then the safety against children is improved, but the ease of manufacture and assembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coping is segmented into movable sections that can be independently positioned. This allows the coping to be assembled in a raised position (easier assembly) and then moved to the lowered safety position, resolving the contradiction between ease of manufacture and safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The coping is designed as a dynamic component rather than a fixed one. It can be moved between raised and lowered positions, allowing for easier assembly in the raised position while maintaining safety in the lowered position. The hinge connections and locking mechanisms enable this dynamic behavior without complicating the manufacturing process.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The invention relates to a structure for a basin, comprising a wall (2) having an upper part (3) of an above-ground external rim, intended to surround the basin and surmounted by a coping (4). According to the invention, the means for fixing the cover comprise a cover roller (7), disposed on a free outer side (31) of the upper part (3) above the ground and, in addition: - a first element (8) allowing the cover to be inserted in the deployed position between the coping (4) and the upper part (3), - a second element (9) for locking the cover between the coping (4) and the upper part (3), - a third element (10) for locking the coping (4) onto the upper part (3).