Pool Cover Roller Device with Integrated Support Feet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roller devices for raised flexible swimming pool covers face issues such as oxidation in metal parts, misalignments, noise from friction, and large dimensions due to support feet, which affect their longevity, aesthetics, and operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A compact roller device with a tubular rotary shaft and support feet designed to house the drive mechanism and shaft ends, using aluminum and injected plastic for reduced exposure and noise, incorporating a bearing system for mechanical efficiency and a customizable aesthetic appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If metal parts are exposed in the roller device, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but oxidation occurs reducing durability and aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a plastic protective casing that encloses the metal shaft and drive mechanism. This thin film/shell structure protects the metal components from oxidation while maintaining a compact design. The casing is integrated into the support feet, creating a protective enclosure without significantly increasing structural complexity.
2Reliability
If support feet are made larger to house drive mechanism and shaft ends, then protection from oxidation is improved, but the overall device volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where the drive mechanism and shaft ends are housed inside the support feet. The plastic casing is integrated into the support foot structure, creating a compact enclosure that protects metal components without requiring additional external housing. This nesting approach minimizes the overall device volume while providing adequate protection.
3Productivity
If traditional friction elements are used in the drive mechanism, then the structure is simple, but misalignments and noises occur reducing operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional friction-based mechanical elements with a bearing system. The bearing enables smooth rotation of the shaft with reduced friction, eliminating misalignments and noises associated with friction elements. This substitution maintains operational efficiency while using a well-established mechanical component that integrates into the existing drive mechanism structure.
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 provides a more durable, aesthetically pleasing, and space-efficient roller device that minimizes noise and maintenance needs, ensuring reliable automatic unfolding and folding of pool covers while reducing the overall size and production costs.
Implementation Method 1
misalignments and noises produced by friction elements
Implementation Method 2
oxidation in the exposed metal parts such as the winding drum or the drive mechanism
Data Source
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AI summary
Roller device for pool covers, comprising: - a rotary shaft (2), with a free end (4) and a motor end (5); - two support feet (3), for supporting the ends (4, 5); and -a rotary shaft drive mechanism (2). Each of the support feet (3) comprises: -an internal bracket (7), which in turn comprises: - a central circular housing (12) for coupling the corresponding end (4, 5); and - a bearing system (13), located around the central housing (12) and integrated in the bracket (7), for directly supporting and guiding the rotation of the rotary shaft (2); and - an external casing (9) for covering the bracket (7), The ends (4, 5) of the rotary shaft (2) and the drive mechanism are completely housed inside their corresponding support foot (3) and protected from the elements.