Fiberglass Pool Shell Pre-Formed Sockets for Attachable Accessories
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fiberglass swimming pools lack the ability to accommodate customized structures such as benches, stools, or sporting devices like volleyball nets and basketball hoops, as these must be integrated during the manufacturing process, complicating and increasing the cost of production, and limiting consumer options.
Innovation Solution
A fiberglass pool accessory system featuring selectively attachable fixtures with preformed moldings and recesses that interface with the pool surface, allowing for easy attachment of additional structures like stools, tables, and sporting equipment without complicating the manufacturing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If customized structures are integrated into the fiberglass pool during manufacturing, then the pool can accommodate additional structures like benches and stools, but the manufacturing process becomes substantially more complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the pool system into two independent parts: the standard fiberglass pool shell and separate attachable structures. The pool shell includes pre-formed sockets during manufacturing, while structures like benches, stools, and sporting devices are manufactured separately and attached afterward. This segmentation allows the pool to be produced using standard processes while still enabling customization through add-on components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention performs preliminary action by incorporating sockets into the pool shell during the initial manufacturing process. These sockets are pre-positioned and prepared to receive attachable structures, but the structures themselves are not integrated until later. This allows the pool to be manufactured with attachment capability without requiring the complex integration of each individual structure during pool production.
2Adaptability or versatility
If customized structures are integrated into the fiberglass pool during manufacturing, then the pool can accommodate additional structures, but the manufacturing cost increases substantially
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the pool system into a standard shell with sockets and separate attachable structures, the invention enables standardization of the pool manufacturing process. The sockets are incorporated during pool production using existing molding capabilities, while the attachable structures can be produced independently using simpler, less expensive processes. This avoids the high costs associated with integrating complex custom structures during pool manufacturing.
3Reliability
If structures are permanently affixed to the fiberglass pool, then they are securely attached, but consumer options and customization are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a dynamic attachment system where structures can be securely attached when needed and removed or reconfigured as desired. The sockets provide permanent, reliable mounting points in the pool shell, while the attachable structures can be installed or removed by consumers based on their needs. This dynamic capability allows the same pool to serve different functions and preferences over time, greatly expanding consumer options.
Data Source
AI summary
A pool shell molding system that enables accessories such as tables, chairs, parasols, basketball rims, and volleyball nets to be selectively and easily attached and removed. The pre-formed mold includes a recessed section with an outer edge that contacts and grips the various pool accessories. The depth of the recess is reduced by including a lip section extending from the bottom of the pool accessory, forming a contact and seal with the pool shell. Additionally, the pre-formed mold also includes an extended section with an outer edge that contacts and is gripped by the various pool accessories. The pre-formed mold can also secure a pole structure that includes a pole and a base member attached to the pole that facilitates a flexing locking relationship with the pool surface.