Automatic Pool Cover Locking Mechanism Using Submerged Hooks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current manual and complex automatic locking systems for roll-up swimming pool covers are uncomfortable, prone to breakage, and aesthetically unpleasing, with magnetic and mechanical solutions experiencing errors and mismatches.
Innovation Solution
A fully automatic safety device using hooks and couplings linked to the pool walls and a motorized drum, with elastic and rigid straps, that mechanically locks and unlocks the cover, ensuring secure anchoring without manual operation and improving aesthetics by hiding components underwater.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual clamps are used to fix the cover to the pool sides, then the cover can be secured, but the operation becomes uncomfortable and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The cover system performs self-service through automatic locking and unlocking mechanisms. The cover automatically locks to the pool sides upon deployment and unlocks when retracted, eliminating the need for manual operation of clamps or fasteners by the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical clamp operation with an automated mechanical system. The locking mechanism uses mechanical elements such as hooks, latches, or magnetic attachments that automatically engage with the pool sides without requiring manual intervention.
2Extent of automation
If electromagnetic magnetic means are used for automatic locking, then automatic operation is achieved, but errors and undesired interactions with other electrical elements occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes electromagnetic locking mechanisms with purely mechanical locking systems. The mechanical locks use physical components such as hooks, latches, or clips that engage with corresponding receptacles on the pool sides, eliminating electrical elements and their associated errors or interactions.
3Extent of automation
If complex mechanical locking elements are used for automatic operation, then automatic locking is achieved, but the structure becomes complex leading to mismatches and breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented into simple, modular components that can be independently manufactured and assembled. The cover includes discrete locking elements at its edges that correspond to simple receptacles or attachment points on the pool sides, reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, easily replaceable mechanical locking components that can be manufactured at low cost. If a locking element wears or breaks, it can be quickly replaced without affecting the entire system, reducing the impact of component failure.
4Reliability
If manual clamps are used to secure the cover, then the cover is fixed, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates due to visible components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the locking components from visible areas and integrates them into the cover structure or pool architecture. The locking elements are positioned at the edges or corners of the cover, where they are less visually prominent, or are integrated into the pool's existing structure to maintain aesthetic appearance.
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
Provides a reliable, automatic, and aesthetically pleasing solution for securing roll-up swimming pool covers, eliminating manual operation and potential breakages, while ensuring safety and compatibility with various pool materials.
Implementation Method 1
a first elastic strap (9) linking the drum slat (4) to the drum (3)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
Safety device for roll-up swimming pool covers, linkable to a cover comprising a rotating drum (3), a floating blanket (1) and a drum actuator (3). The blanket (1) comprises slats (2) joined together, with a drum slat (4), linkable to the drum (3) and a closing slat (5) linkable to a wall opposite the drum wall. The device comprises: - first coupling hooks (6), fixable to a submerged sector of the drum wall; - second coupling hooks (7), fixable to a submerged sector of the closing wall; - locking straps (9) and some release straps (8), linkable to the drum slat (4) and to the first coupling hooks (6); and - pivoting hooks (10), linkable to the closing slat (5) and to the second coupling hooks (7).