Pool Skimmer Trim and Flap Segmentation for Aesthetic Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surface skimmers for pools have a visible white area when the flap is in an inclined position, and changing the aesthetics to match a new pool liner color requires replacing the entire skimmer, which is inconvenient and involves breaking concrete.
Innovation Solution
A surface skimmer design featuring a loophole with a shutter and a trim that covers part of the loophole, where the flap is mounted articulated on the trim, allowing for easy color matching and aesthetic changes by replacing only the trim and flap, and a snap-fastening device for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the entire skimmer is replaced to change the color to match a new liner, then the aesthetic integration is improved, but the installation complexity and concrete work increase
Solution Approach 1:
The skimmer is divided into separate components: the original skimmer body (loophole) and a detachable trim assembly that includes the color-matched cover and articulated flap. This segmentation allows the trim to be replaced independently to change aesthetics without replacing or disturbing the concrete-installed skimmer body.
Solution Approach 2:
Only the visible outer portions of the skimmer (the trim and cover) are made color-matched to blend with the liner, while the functional internal components remain separate. This allows aesthetic customization without affecting the structural integration into the concrete.
2Shape
If a colored flap is injected to blend into the liner, then the aesthetic integration is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The color-matched components (cover and flap) are manufactured as separate trim pieces that can be produced in standard colors and then attached to the skimmer. This avoids the need for custom injection molding of colored material directly into the skimmer body for each color variation.
Solution Approach 2:
The trim assembly is designed as a universal component that can be attached to different skimmer models and can be replaced in different colors to match various liner colors. The same trim structure serves both aesthetic and functional purposes across multiple applications.
3Strength
If the cover is fixed directly on the loophole, then the structural integrity is improved, but the ease of installation and maintenance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The trim assembly is pre-assembled as a complete unit with the cover and articulated flap already connected together before installation. This preliminary assembly simplifies the installation process, as the entire trim unit can be attached to the loophole as one piece rather than assembling multiple components on-site.
Solution Approach 2:
The trim acts as an intermediary component between the loophole and the external environment. It provides a standardized interface that connects to the loophole through simple attachment mechanisms while supporting the articulated flap and cover, facilitating easier installation and removal compared to direct fixing.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
The invention relates mainly to a surface skimmer (1) for a basin such as a swimming pool, a spa, or a natural basin comprising: - a nozzle (2) through which water is intended to be sucked from the basin, - a flap (10) which may in particular have a function of non-return valve to prevent sucked-up debris from returning to the basin and/or of water blade regulator, and - a trim piece (11) intended to cover at least part of the nozzle (2), - the flap (10) being mounted articulated, preferably by a pivot joint, on the trim piece (11).