Pool Skimmer Protective Covers for Construction Debris Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard swimming pool skimmers are prone to contamination and damage during construction phases due to debris and liquids entering the system, leading to costly repairs and inefficiencies in protecting the skimmer components before pool completion.
Innovation Solution
A multi-cover system comprising a first cover for the circular opening and a second cover for the rectangular opening, both detachably attaching to the skimmer to prevent debris and liquids from entering, with optional third covers for post-construction use, constructed from rigid polymeric and elastomeric materials to accommodate various installation stages and components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If standard pool skimmers are installed prior to full pool completion, then a complete finished look is provided, but debris and liquids may enter the system causing contamination and damage
Solution Approach 1:
Protective covers are installed on the skimmer openings before pool construction is completed, preventing debris and liquid intrusion during the construction phase. The covers are removed after construction, allowing the skimmer to function normally while having been protected during the vulnerable installation period.
Solution Approach 2:
A removable protective cover acts as an intermediary barrier between the skimmer opening and the construction environment. This cover prevents direct contact between harmful construction debris and the skimmer internal components while allowing the skimmer to remain installed for aesthetic purposes.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If tape and improvised covering materials are used to seal openings, then debris prevention is achieved, but the covers are delicate and may trip homeowners
Solution Approach 1:
The protective cover is designed as a temporary, single-use component that provides reliable protection during construction but is intended to be removed after construction completes. It is not meant to be a permanent safety feature but rather a temporary protective barrier.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover is made from flexible polymeric material that can conform to the skimmer opening shape while providing robust protection. This flexible material is more reliable than tape or cardboard while remaining removable and not intended as a permanent safety barrier.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If tape and improvised covers are used, then initial protection is provided, but re-application is difficult and causes waste if access is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The protective cover is designed to be dynamically removable and re-installable multiple times during the construction process. Unlike tape that degrades with removal attempts, this cover can be taken off for pressure testing or component access and re-installed without degradation, enabling flexible construction scheduling.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover is pre-installed to provide protection during construction, and its design anticipates the need for temporary removal during pressure testing or component installation. After these intermediate steps are complete, the cover is re-installed to maintain protection until construction is fully complete.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If standard covers are used, then openings are sealed, but various components like pressure test pipes cannot be accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The protective cover is segmented or designed with openings that allow intermediate components like pressure test pipes to pass through or be accommodated during construction. This segmentation enables the cover to provide continuous protection while allowing necessary construction activities to proceed through the covered opening.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover design incorporates universal features that accommodate multiple construction scenarios, including pressure testing, component installation, and final sealing. The same cover structure can adapt to different construction needs without requiring multiple specialized cover types.
Data Source
AI summary
A pool skimmer opening cover system for prevention of intrusion of debris and liquids into the pool filtration system during installation of the pool. The system has at least a first cover and a second cover designed to be installed on the above-ground circular opening of a pool skimmer and the subterranean pool facia rectangular opening. Each cover may be installed into the corresponding location subsequent to pool skimmer installation but prior to the completion of pool construction to prevent the intrusion of debris and liquids into the systems thereof. Each cover may be removed subsequent to installation and construction of the pool to enable use of the skimmer upon such completion. A third cover to be used upon construction completion prior to filling the pool and methods of use and/or installation.