Skimmer Rescue Platform with Segmented Buoyancy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for rescuing wildlife from swimming pool skimmers are ineffective as they either require animals to navigate to the rescue device, get entrapped, or interfere with the skimmer's operation, leading to high mortality rates and difficulties in cleaning.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a body with a base and an elevated surface, featuring a free-form flange and retrieval apparatus that floats on the skimmer's surface, providing buoyancy and a textured surface for wildlife to rest and access, while allowing debris to flow into the skimmer basket without obstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a flat piece of plastic material is used as a rescue device, then it provides a surface for creatures to rest, but it flips over or tilts into the flow of water thus depriving the creature of rescue
Solution Approach 1:
The rescue device is divided into multiple independent floating elements or compartments that work together to provide stability. This segmentation prevents the platform from tipping over in water flow while maintaining a stable surface for creature rescue.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates buoyant elements positioned to counterbalance the platform structure, creating a stable floating device that resists tipping. The buoyancy distribution is designed to maintain equilibrium even when creatures are on the platform.
2Ease of operation
If a rescue device is placed in front of the skimmer, then it provides a rescue platform, but netting entraps debris meant for the skimmer
Solution Approach 1:
The rescue device is positioned inside the skimmer basket rather than in front of it, extracting the rescue function from the debris flow path. This allows debris to continue flowing to the skimmer while creatures can access the floating platform for rescue.
Solution Approach 2:
The rescue platform is nested within the skimmer basket structure, allowing it to float among the debris without blocking the overall flow. The device occupies the same space as the skimmer contents without interfering with debris removal.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple rescue devices are placed in the pool, then it provides sufficient opportunities for animals to rescue themselves, but it decreases the swimming area of the pool
Solution Approach 1:
The rescue device serves multiple functions: it provides a rescue platform for creatures, acts as a floating debris collector, and can be positioned in various locations within the skimmer. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate devices in the pool.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to be self-activating and self-positioning within the skimmer, requiring minimal human intervention. Once placed, it automatically floats to the appropriate position and provides rescue opportunities without needing multiple units deployed throughout the pool.
4Stability of the object's composition
If a rescue device is attached to the skimmer basket, then it provides a stable rescue platform, but it interferes with the skimmer operation and cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The rescue device is designed as a free-floating element within the skimmer basket rather than being rigidly attached. It can move dynamically with water flow and be easily removed when needed for skimmer cleaning, providing stability during operation without interfering with maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is positioned and secured in a preliminary manner that allows it to remain stable during normal skimmer operation but facilitates quick removal during cleaning. The attachment mechanism is designed to be secure during use but easily released when maintenance is required.
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 device effectively rescues and retrieves wildlife by maintaining a stable platform above water, preventing entrapment and interference with skimmer operation, ensuring safe rescue and easy cleaning of the skimmer.
Implementation Method 1
a buoyant device that floats upon the surface of the water in the skimmer area
Data Source
AI summary
A device for rescuing, retrieving and setting free native wildlife caught in a swimming pool skimmer comprises a body and a retrieval apparatus. The body has a base and an elevated surface of lesser external dimensions than a flange of the base. The body has an enclosed volume captured between the base and the elevated surface. The retrieval apparatus is associated with a portion of the body.