Pool Net Flexible Rim and Pole Locking System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current pool cleaning accessories, such as telescopic poles, brushes, nets, and vacuum heads, suffer from insecure attachment systems that lead to wobbling and inefficiencies, particularly due to reliance on spring-loaded clips and metal screws prone to rust and corrosion, and fail to effectively capture debris in pool corners and angles.

Innovation Solution

A locking system with a rectangular-like cross-section pole and toggle arm mechanism, along with accessory connecting elements that provide secure, multi-point attachment and adjustable angles for accessories like brushes and nets, and a flexible rim for skimmer nets to conform to pool surfaces, enhancing stability and maneuverability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a spring-loaded plastic clip is used to attach accessories to the pole, then the attachment is simple and quick, but the connection is loose and causes wobbling

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment simplicityVSAvoidconnection stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment system is divided into multiple connection points (at least two holes positioned apart from each other) instead of relying on a single clip mechanism. This segmentation distributes the attachment forces across multiple locations, providing both simplicity of attachment and stability during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention combines multiple attachment features (multiple holes, optional threaded holes, optional flanges) into a single integrated accessory design. This merging allows the accessory to achieve secure attachment through multiple contact points while maintaining ease of installation through a unified attachment process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If a threaded screw and nut system is used to attach accessories, then the connection is more secure, but it takes considerable time to change attachments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection securityVSAvoidattachment change time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment system allows for dynamic adjustment between different attachment modes. Users can quickly attach/detach accessories using the simple hole-and-clip method when speed is needed, or engage threaded holes for permanent installations requiring maximum security. The system adapts to different operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the attachment parameter from a single fixed method to multiple adjustable methods. By providing both simple hole alignment (for quick changes) and threaded holes (for permanent secure attachment), the system allows users to change the attachment parameter based on whether priority is speed or maximum security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Stability of the object's composition

If a hard rigid frame is used for skimmer nets, then the net structure is stable, but it scratches pool surfaces and cannot capture debris in corners

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenet frame stabilityVSAvoidpool surface damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The invention replaces the traditional hard rigid frame with a flexible rim made of soft material. This flexible rim can deform to conform to pool surfaces and corners without scratching them, while still providing sufficient structural support to maintain net stability during skimming operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The net frame transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic flexible structure that can adapt its shape. The flexible rim allows the net to dynamically adjust to various pool geometries including corners and curved surfaces, enabling debris capture in previously inaccessible areas while maintaining operational stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Device complexity

If brush head angle is fixed in one position, then the brush structure is simple, but the user cannot adapt to different cleaning needs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebrush structure simplicityVSAvoidbrush angle adjustability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The brush head is designed with a pivotable connection to the pole, transforming it from a fixed static structure to a dynamic adjustable one. The brush can rotate or pivot to achieve different working angles while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through the use of a straightforward pivot mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9045914B2Pool accessories and systems
Publication Date: 2015.06.02 NC BRANDS LP
  • US9045914B2 patent drawing
  • US9045914B2 patent drawing
  • US9045914B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A net for use with a pool cleaning system includes a net material portion and a frame body. The frame body has a flexible inner frame portion providing structural support but deformable when pressed against a surface, and an outer, flexible rim portion that is more malleable than the flexible inner frame portion and configured to provide a flexible rim edge for scooping.