| |
| United States Patent
|
7,334,601 |
| Torkelson |
February 26, 2008 |
Pool cleaning systems
Abstract
A vacuum pool cleaning system that is housed in the side of the
swimming pool. The pool vacuum unreels itself and vacuums the pool
when the central pool vacuum pump is turned on, and reels itself
back into storage when the central pool vacuum pump is turned off.
The vacuum hose is stored on a reel below the water line. The system
is powered entirely by the vacuum from the pool vacuum pump.
| Inventors: |
Torkelson; John E.
(Mesa, AZ) |
| Appl. No.:
|
11/001,557 |
| Filed: |
November 30, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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60528771 |
Dec., 2003 |
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| Current U.S.
Class: |
137/355.2
; 15/1.7; 239/197 |
| Current
International Class: |
E04H
4/16 (20060101); B65H 75/34 (20060101) |
| Field of
Search: |
137/355.2,355.21,355.22,355.23,355.27 15/1.7 134/167R
239/197,198 4/490 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent
Documents
Primary Examiner: Fox; John
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
Stoneman Volk Patent Group Stoneman; Martin L. Volk, Jr.;
Michael D.
Parent Case Text
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
The present application is related to and claims priority from prior
provisional application Ser. No. 60/528,771 filed Dec. 12, 2003,
entitled "SWIMMING POOL VACUUM AND HOSE AUTOMATIC DEPLOYMENT AND
RETRIEVAL GARAGE", the content of which is incorporated herein by
this reference and is not admitted to be prior art with respect to
the present invention by the mention in this cross-reference
section.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A cleaning system, relating to automatic vacuum means relating to
cleaning at least one pool of water, comprising: a) vacuum hose
means for providing at least one vacuum hose having at least one
first end and at least one second end; b) hose reel means for
reeling said vacuum hose means; c) hose deployer means for deploying
said at least one first end of said vacuum hose means into the at
least one pool of water; and d) hose retractor means for retracting
said vacuum hose means onto said hose reel means; e) wherein said
vacuum hose means is adapted to remain continuously full of water
when retracted onto said hose reel means; and f) wherein said at
least one hose retractor means comprises at least one automatic hose
retractor means for automatically retracting said at least one
vacuum hose means when at least one vacuum pump is turned off.
2. A cleaning system, relating to at least one automatic vacuum
relating to cleaning at least one pool of water having at least one
waterline, comprising: a) at least one vacuum hose having at least
one first end and at least one second end; b) at least one vacuum
pump, wherein said at least one vacuum pump is attached to said at
least one second end of said at least one vacuum hose; c) at least
one hose reel adapted to reel said at least one vacuum hose; d) at
least one hose deployer adapted to deploy said at least one first
end of said at least one vacuum hose into such at least one pool of
water; and e) at least one hose retractor adapted to retract said at
least one vacuum hose onto said at least one hose reel; f) wherein
said at least one vacuum hose is adapted to remain continuously full
of water when retracted onto said at least one hose reel; g) wherein
said at least one hose retractor comprises at least one automatic
hose retractor adapted to automatically retract said at least one
vacuum hose when said at least one vacuum pump is turned off.
3. The cleaning system, according to claim 2, wherein said at least
one hose deployer comprises at least one hydraulic actuator.
4. The cleaning system, according to claim 2, further comprising at
least one housing adapted to house said at least one vacuum hose, on
said at least one hose reel, below such at least one waterline of
such at least one pool of water.
5. The cleaning system, according to claim 4, wherein said at least
one housing further comprises at least one door adapted to provide
at least one exit from said at least one housing into such at least
one pool of water.
6. The cleaning system, according to claim 5, wherein said at least
one door is below such at least one waterline of such at least one
pool of water.
7. The cleaning system, according to claim 4, wherein said at least
one vacuum hose is entirely within said at least one housing when
said at least one vacuum hose is retracted for storage.
8. The cleaning system, according to claim 2, wherein said at least
one vacuum hose further comprises at least one vacuum cleaner,
wherein said at least one vacuum cleaner is attached to said at
least one first end of said at least one vacuum hose.
9. The cleaning system, according to claim 2, wherein said at least
one hose deployer comprises at least one automatic hose deployer
adapted to automatically deploy said at least one vacuum hose when
said at least one vacuum pump is turned on.
10. The cleaning system, according to claim 2, wherein said at least
one hose deployer is powered by said at least one vacuum pump.
11. The cleaning system, according to claim 10, further comprising
at least one automatic switch adapted to automatically switch said
at least one vacuum pump from powering said at least one hose
deployer to pulling water through said at least one vacuum hose
after said at least one hose deployer deploys said at least one
vacuum hose.
12. The cleaning system, according to claim 2, further comprising at
least one hydraulic motor adapted to power at least one motor with
water moved by said at least one vacuum pump.
13. The cleaning system, according to claim 12, wherein said at
least one hose deployer is powered by said at least one hydraulic
motor.
14. The cleaning system, according to claim 2, wherein said at least
one hose retractor comprises at least one spring adapted to wind
said at least one hose reel.
15. The cleaning system, according to claim 2, wherein said at least
one hose deployer comprises at least one articulated carrier adapted
to carry said at least one vacuum hose from at least one retracted
position to at least one deployed position and vice versa.
16. The cleaning system, according to claim 15, further comprising
at least one retraction detector adapted to detect the complete
retraction of said at least one vacuum hose onto said at least one
reel.
17. The cleaning system, according to claim 2, further comprising at
least one deployment detector adapted to detect the finished
deployment of said at least one vacuum hose off of said at least one
reel.
18. The cleaning system, according to claim 17, wherein said at
least one hose deployer is powered by said at least one vacuum pump
prior to said at least one deployment detector detecting the
finished deployment of said at least one vacuum hose off of said at
lest one reel.
19. The cleaning system, according to claim 17, wherein said at
least one vacuum pump pulls water through said at least one vacuum
hose after said at least one deployment detector detects the
finished deployment of said at least one vacuum hose off of said at
least one reel.
20. The cleaning system, according to claim 17, further comprising
at least one automatic switch adapted to automatically switch said
at least one vacuum pump from powering said at least one hose
deployer to pulling water through said at least one vacuum hose
after said at least one deployment detector detects the finished
deployment of said at least one vacuum hose off of said at least one
reel.
21. The cleaning system, according to claim 20, wherein said at
least one automatic switch comprises at least one hydraulic
actuator.
22. The cleaning system, according to claim 17, wherein said at
least one deployment detector comprises: a) at least one
spring-loaded lever adapted to provide at least one spring-loaded
lever on the interior of said at least one hose reel i) wherein said
at least one spring-loaded lever is compressed when said at least
one vacuum hose presses said at least one spring-loaded lever; and
ii) wherein said at least one spring-loaded lever is released when
said at least one vacuum hose is removed from said at least one
spring-loaded lever; b) at least one spring-loaded bar adapted to
provide at least one spring-loaded bar on the exterior of said at
least one hose reel i) wherein said at least one spring-loaded bar
is pulled into at least one retracted position when said at least
one spring-loaded lever is compressed; and ii) wherein said at least
one spring-loaded bar means is released into at least one extended
position when said at least one spring-loaded lever is released; c)
at least one spring-loaded switch i) wherein said at least one
spring-loaded switch is open when said at least one spring-loaded
bar is pulled into such at least one retracted position; and ii)
wherein said at least one spring-loaded switch is closed when said
at least one spring-loaded bar is released into such at least one
extended position and contacts said at least one spring-loaded
switch.
23. The cleaning system, according to claim 2, wherein said at least
one hose deployer comprises: a) at least one hydraulic motor; b)
wherein said at least one hydraulic motor is powered by said at
least one vacuum pump; c) at least one hose-guiding wheel adapted to
guide said at least one vacuum hose; d) at least one hose-moving
wheel adapted to move said at least one vacuum hose; e) at least one
wheel compressor adapted to compress said at least one vacuum hose
between said at least one hose-guiding wheel and said at least one
hose-moving wheel; f) wherein said at least one wheel compressor is
actuated by said at least one vacuum pump; and g) at least one drive
adapted to drive said at least one hose-moving wheel off of said at
least one hydraulic motor; h) whereby, when said at least one vacuum
pump is turned on, said at least one vacuum hose is laterally
compressed and is rolled longitudinally between said at least one
hose-guiding wheel and said at least one hose-moving wheel.
24. The cleaning system, according to claim 23, wherein said at
least one drive comprises at least one drive chain.
25. The cleaning system, according to claim 24, further comprising
at least one drive tensioner adapted to provide consistent tension
to said at least one drive chain.
26. The cleaning system, according to claim 23, wherein said at
least one hose-guiding wheel comprises said at least one hose-moving
wheel.
27. A pool cleaning system, comprising: a) at lest one vacuum hose;
b) at least one hose deployer adapted to deploy said at least one
vacuum hose from at least one retracted position; and c) at least
one hose retractor adapted to retract said at least one vacuum hose
from at least one deployed position; d) wherein said at least one
hose deployer comprises at least one hydraulic actuator; g) wherein
said at least one hose retractor comprises at least one automatic
hose retractor adapted to automatically retract said at least one
vacuum hose when said at least one vacuum pump is turned off.
28. A cleaning system, relating to at least one automatic vacuum
relating to cleaning at least one pool of water having at least one
waterline, comprising: a) at least one vacuum hose having at least
one first end and at least one second end; b) at least one vacuum
pump, wherein said at least one vacuum pump is attached to said at
least one second end of said at least one vacuum hose; c) at least
one hose reel adapted to reel said at least one vacuum hose; d) at
least one hose deployer adapted to deploy said at least one first
end of said at least one vacuum hose into such at least one pool of
water; and e) at least one hose retractor adapted to retract said at
least one vacuum hose onto said at least one hose reel; f) wherein
said at least one vacuum hose is adapted to remain continuously full
of water when retracted onto said at least one hose reel; g) wherein
said at least one hose deployer is powered by said at least one
vacuum pump; h) at least one automatic switch adapted to
automatically switch said at least one vacuum pump from powering
said at least one hose deployer to pulling water through said at
least one vacuum hose after said at least one hose deployer deploys
said at least one vacuum hose.
29. A cleaning system, relating to at least one automatic vacuum
relating to cleaning at least one pool of water having at least one
waterline, comprising: a) at least one vacuum hose having at least
one first end and at least one second end; b) at least one vacuum
pump, wherein said at least one vacuum pump is attached to said at
least one second end of said at least one vacuum hose; c) at least
one hose reel adapted to reel said at least one vacuum hose; d) at
least one hose deployer adapted to deploy said at least one first
end of said at least one vacuum hose into such at least one pool of
water; and e) at least one hose retractor adapted to retract said at
least one vacuum hose onto said at least one hose reel; f) wherein
said at least one vacuum hose is adapted to remain continuously full
of water when retracted onto said at least one hose reel; g) wherein
said at least one hose deployer comprises at least one articulated
carrier adapted to carry said at least one hose deployer from at
least one retracted position to at least one deployed position and
vice versa.
30. A cleaning system, relating to at least one automatic vacuum
relating to cleaning at least one pool of water having at least one
waterline, comprising: a) at least one vacuum hose having at least
one first end and at least one second end; b) at least one vacuum
pump, wherein said at least one vacuum pump is attached to said at
least one second end of said at least one vacuum hose; c) at least
one hose reel adapted to reel said at least one vacuum hose; d) at
least one hose deployer adapted to deploy said at least one first
end of said at least one vacuum hose into such at least one pool of
water; and e) at least one hose retractor adapted to retract said at
least one vacuum hose onto said at least one hose reel; f) wherein
said at least one vacuum hose is adapted to remain continuously full
of water when retracted onto said at least one hose reel; g) at
least one deployment detector adapted to detect the finished
deployment of said at least one vacuum hose off of said at least one
reel.
31. A cleaning system, relating to at least one automatic vacuum
relating to cleaning at least one pool of water having at least one
waterline, comprising: a) at least one vacuum hose having at least
one first end and at least one second end; b) at least one vacuum
pump, wherein said at least one vacuum pump is attached to said at
least one second end of said at least one vacuum hose; c) at least
one hose reel adapted to reel said at least one vacuum hose; d) at
least one hose deployer adapted to deploy said at least one first
end of said at least one vacuum hose into such at least one pool of
water; and e) at least one hose retractor adapted to retract said at
least one vacuum hose onto said at least one hose reel; f) wherein
said at least one vacuum hose is adapted to remain continuously full
of water when retracted onto said at least one hose reel; g) wherein
said at least one hose deployer comprises: i. at least one hydraulic
motor; ii. wherein said at least one hydraulic motor is powered by
said at least one vacuum pump; iii. at least one hose-guiding wheel
adapted to guide said at least one vacuum hose; iv. at least one
hose-moving wheel adapted to move said at least one vacuum hose; v.
at least one wheel compressor adapted to compress said at least one
vacuum hose between said at least one hose-guiding wheel and said at
least one hose-moving wheel; vi. wherein said at least one wheel
compressor is actuated by said at least one vacuum pump; and vii. at
least one drive adapted to drive said at least one hose-moving wheel
off of said at least one hydraulic motor; viii. whereby, when said
at least one vacuum pump is turned on, said at least one vacuum hose
is laterally compressed and is rolled longitudinally between said at
least one hose-guiding wheel and said at least one hose-moving
wheel.
32. A pool cleaning system, comprising: a) at lest one vacuum hose;
b) at least one hose deployer adapted to deploy said at least one
vacuum hose from at least one retracted position; and c) at least
one hose retractor adapted to retract said at least one vacuum hose
from at least one deployed position; d) wherein said at least one
hose deployer comprises at least one hydraulic actuator; e) at least
one deployment detector adapted to detect the finished deployment of
said at least one vacuum hose off of said at least one reel.
33. A pool cleaning system, comprising: a) at lest one vacuum hose;
b) at least one hose deployer adapted to deploy said at least one
vacuum hose from at least one retracted position; and c) at least
one hose retractor adapted to retract said at least one vacuum hose
from at least one deployed position; d) wherein said at least one
hose deployer comprises at least one hydraulic actuator; e) at least
one deployment detector adapted to detect the finished deployment of
said at least one vacuum hose off of said at least one reel.
Description
BACKGROUND
This invention relates to providing pool cleaning systems.
More particularly, this invention relates to providing a system for
improved storage and deployment of pool vacuuming components.
Typically, a random-motion pool vacuum is coupled to a hose which is
coupled to the central pool vacuum pump. The pool vacuum pump and
hose are placed in the pool and primed for use, and must be removed
from the pool and drained of water so that the pool can be used for
swimming. This is very labor-intensive and time-consuming.
Therefore, a need exists for a system that can deploy a pool vacuum
and hose automatically, and retract the pool vacuum and hose
automatically. Further, a need exists for a vacuum system that
remains continuously primed.
OBJECTS AND FEATURES OF THE INVENTION
A primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide
pool cleaning systems. A further primary object and feature of the
present invention is to provide a pool cleaning system that
automatically deploys a pool vacuum, and automatically retracts the
pool vacuum.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system that can be run entirely on the suction power
provided by a pool vacuum pump. It is yet another object and feature
of the present invention to provide such a system that is stored
underwater, to maintain a primed state.
It is yet another object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system having an underwater hose reel.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to
provide such a system including methods of cleaning pools.
A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive, and handy.
Other objects and features of this invention will become apparent
with reference to the following descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention
provides a cleaning system, relating to automatic vacuum means
relating to cleaning at least one pool of water, comprising: vacuum
hose means for providing at least one vacuum hose having at least
one first end and at least one second end; hose reel means for
reeling such vacuum hose means; hose deployer means for deploying
such at least one first end of such vacuum hose means into the at
least one pool of water; and hose retractor means for retracting
such vacuum hose means onto such hose reel means; wherein such
vacuum hose means is adapted to remain continuously full of water
when retracted onto such hose reel means.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a cleaning system, relating to at least one
automatic vacuum relating to cleaning at least one pool of water
having at least one waterline, comprising: at least one vacuum hose
having at least one first end and at least one second end; at least
one vacuum pump, wherein such at least one vacuum pump is attached
to such at least one second end of such at least one vacuum hose; at
least one hose reel adapted to reel such at least one vacuum hose;
at least one hose deployer adapted to deploy such at least one first
end of such at least one vacuum hose into such at least one pool of
water; and at least one hose retractor adapted to retract such at
least one vacuum hose onto such at least one hose reel; wherein such
at least one vacuum hose is adapted to remain continuously full of
water when retracted onto such at least one hose reel.
Moreover, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such at least
one hose deployer comprises at least one hydraulic actuator.
Additionally, it provides such a cleaning system, further comprising
at least one housing adapted to house such at least one vacuum hose,
on such at least one hose reel, below such at least one waterline of
such at least one pool of water. Also, it provides such a cleaning
system, wherein such at least one housing further comprises at least
one door adapted to provide at least one exit from such at least one
housing into such at least one pool of water. In addition, it
provides such a cleaning system, wherein such at least one door is
below such at least one waterline of such at least one pool of
water. And, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such at
least one vacuum hose is entirely within such at least one housing
when such at least one vacuum hose is retracted for storage.
Further, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such at least
one vacuum hose further comprises at least one vacuum cleaner,
wherein such at least one vacuum cleaner is attached to such at
least one first end of such at least one vacuum hose.
Even further, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such at
least one hose deployer comprises at least one automatic hose
deployer adapted to automatically deploy such at least one vacuum
hose when such at least one vacuum pump is turned on. Moreover, it
provides such a cleaning system, wherein such at least one hose
retractor comprises at least one automatic hose retractor adapted to
automatically retract such at least one vacuum hose when such at
least one vacuum pump is turned off.
Additionally, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such at
least one hose deployer is powered by such at least one vacuum pump.
Also, it provides such a cleaning system, further comprising at
least one automatic switch adapted to automatically switch such at
least one vacuum pump from powering such at least one hose deployer
to pulling water through such at least one vacuum hose after such at
least one hose deployer deploys such at least one vacuum hose. In
addition, it provides such a cleaning system, further comprising at
least one hydraulic motor adapted to power at least one motor with
water moved by such at least one vacuum pump. And, it provides such
a cleaning system, wherein such at least one hose deployer is
powered by such at least one hydraulic motor.
Further, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such at least
one hose retractor comprises at least one spring adapted to wind
such at least one hose reel. Even further, it provides such a
cleaning system, wherein such at least one hose deployer comprises
at least one articulated carrier adapted to carry such at least one
hose deployer from at least one retracted position to at least one
deployed position and vice versa.
Moreover, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such at least
one vacuum pump powers such at least one articulated carrier.
Additionally, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such at
least one vacuum pump simultaneously powers such at least one
articulated carrier and such at least one hose deployer. Also, it
provides such a cleaning system, further comprising at least one
retraction detector adapted to detect the complete retraction of
such at least one vacuum hose onto such at least one reel. In
addition, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such at least
one articulated carrier is adapted to carry such at least one hose
deployer from at least one deployed position to at least one
retracted position when such at least one retraction detector
detects the complete retraction of such at least one vacuum hose
onto such at least one reel.
And, it provides such a cleaning system, further comprising at least
one deployment detector adapted to detect the finished deployment of
such at least one vacuum hose off of such at least one reel.
Further, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such at least
one hose deployer is powered by such at least one vacuum pump prior
to such at least one deployment detector detecting the finished
deployment of such at least one vacuum hose off of such at least one
reel. Even further, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such
at least one vacuum pump pulls water through such at least one
vacuum hose after such at least one deployment detector detects the
finished deployment of such at least one vacuum hose off of such at
least one reel.
Moreover, it provides such a cleaning system, further comprising at
least one automatic switch adapted to automatically switch such at
least one vacuum pump from powering such at least one hose deployer
to pulling water through such at least one vacuum hose after such at
least one deployment detector detects the finished deployment of
such at least one vacuum hose off of such at least one reel.
Additionally, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such at
least one automatic switch comprises at least one hydraulic
actuator.
Also, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such at least one
deployment detector comprises: at least one spring-loaded lever
adapted to provide at least one spring-loaded lever on the interior
of such at least one hose reel wherein such at least one
spring-loaded lever is compressed when such at least one vacuum hose
presses such at least one spring-loaded lever; and wherein such at
least one spring-loaded lever is released when such at least one
vacuum hose is removed from such at least one spring-loaded lever;
at least one spring-loaded bar adapted to provide at least one
spring-loaded bar on the exterior of such at least one hose reel
wherein such at least one spring-loaded bar is pulled into at least
one retracted position when such at least one spring-loaded lever is
compressed; and wherein such at least one spring-loaded bar means is
released into at least one extended position when such at least one
spring-loaded lever is released; at least one spring-loaded switch
wherein such at least one spring-loaded switch is open when such at
least one spring-loaded bar is pulled into such at least one
retracted position; and wherein such at least one spring-loaded
switch is closed when such at least one spring-loaded bar is
released into such at least one extended position and contacts such
at least one spring-loaded switch.
In addition, it provides such a cleaning system, further comprising
at least one automatic switch adapted to automatically switch such
at least one vacuum pump from powering such at least one hose
deployer to pulling water through such at least one vacuum hose
after such at least one spring-loaded switch is closed.
And, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such at least one
hose deployer comprises: at least one hydraulic motor; wherein such
at least one hydraulic motor is powered by such at least one vacuum
pump; at least one hose-guiding wheel adapted to guide such at least
one vacuum hose; at least one hose-moving wheel adapted to move such
at least one vacuum hose; at least one wheel compressor adapted to
compress such at least one vacuum hose between such at least one
hose-guiding wheel and such at least one hose-moving wheel; wherein
such at least one wheel compressor is actuated by such at least one
vacuum pump; and at least one drive adapted to drive such at least
one hose-moving wheel off of such at least one hydraulic motor;
whereby, when such at least one vacuum pump is turned on, such at
least one vacuum hose is laterally compressed and is rolled
longitudinally between such at least one hose-guiding wheel and such
at least one hose-moving wheel.
Further, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such at least
one drive comprises at least one drive chain. Even further, it
provides such a cleaning system, further comprising at least one
drive tensioner adapted to provide consistent tension to such at
least one drive chain. Even further, it provides such a cleaning
system, wherein such at least one hose-guiding wheel comprises such
at least one hose-moving wheel.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system, comprising: at least one vacuum pump;
at least one hydraulic motor; wherein such at least one hydraulic
motor is powered by such at least one vacuum pump; at least one
hose-guiding wheel adapted to guide at least one hose; at least one
hose-moving wheel adapted to move such at least one hose; at least
one wheel tensioner adapted to tension such at least one hose
between such at least one hose-guiding wheel and such at least one
hose-moving wheel; wherein such at least one wheel tensioner is
tensioned by such at least one vacuum pump; and at least one drive
adapted to drive such at least one hose-moving wheel off of such at
least one hydraulic motor; whereby, when such at least one vacuum
pump is turned on, such at least one hose is laterally compressed
and is rolled longitudinally between such at least one hose-guiding
wheel and such at least one hose-moving wheel.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a cleaning system, comprising the steps of:
storing at least one hose reel in at least one body of water;
reeling at least one hose onto such at least one hose reel in such
at least one body of water; storing such at least one hose reel
having such at least one hose in such at least one body of water;
and unreeling such at least one hose off of such at least one hose
reel in such at least one body of water; whereby such at least one
hose is kept constantly filled with water.
Even further, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein the step
of unreeling such at least one hose off of such at least one hose
reel in such at least one body of water further comprises the step
of using at least one hydraulic motor to unreel such at least one
hose off of such at least one hose reel in such at least one body of
water. Even further, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein the
step of using at least one hydraulic motor to unreel such at least
one hose off of such at least one hose reel in such at least one
body of water further comprises the step of using at least one
vacuum pump to pull water through such at least one hydraulic motor.
Even further, it provides such a cleaning system, further comprising
the step of automatically switching such at least one vacuum pump
from pulling water through such at least one hydraulic motor to
pulling water through such at least one vacuum hose after such at
least one vacuum hose is unreeled from such at least one reel. Even
further, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such step of
automatically switching further comprises the step of actuating at
least one hydraulic actuator.
Even further, it provides such a cleaning system, wherein such step
of reeling such at least one hose on to such at least one hose reel
in such at least one body of water further comprises the step of
using at least one spring to reel such at least one hose on to such
at least one hose reel in such at least one body of water. Even
further, it provides such a cleaning system, further comprising the
step of pulling at least one flow of water through such at least one
hose.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a pool cleaning system, comprising: at least one
vacuum hose; at least one hose deployer adapted to deploy such at
least one vacuum hose from at least one retracted position; and at
least one hose retractor adapted to retract such at least one vacuum
hose from at least one deployed position; wherein such at least one
hose deployer comprises at least one hydraulic actuator.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 shows a side plan view of a pool cleaning system, retracted
into its pool-wall housing, according to a preferred embodiment of
the present invention.
FIG. 2 shows a side plan view of the automatic vacuum assembly
according to FIG. 1, in a deployed position.
FIG. 3 shows a detail of the upper portion of the automatic vacuum
assembly of FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 shows a rear view of the deployer of FIG. 1.
FIG. 5A shows a side view of a drive wheel of FIG. 1.
FIG. 5B shows an edge view of the drive wheel of FIG. 5A.
FIG. 6 shows a detail of the upper portion of the automatic vacuum
assembly according to FIG. 1, detailing the retraction sensor in a
latched position.
FIG. 7 shows a detail of the upper portion of the automatic vacuum
assembly according to FIG. 1, detailing the retraction sensor in an
unlatched position.
FIG. 8 shows a simplified diagram of a hydraulic system according to
a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9 shows a diagram of the state of the hydraulic system during
vacuum hose deployment, with the hose deployment sensor lever
depressed.
FIG. 10 shows a diagram of the state of the hydraulic system during
vacuum hose deployment, with the hose deployment sensor lever
released.
FIG. 11 shows a diagram of the state of the hydraulic system during
vacuuming.
FIG. 12 shows a cross-section through section 12-12 of FIG. 10.
FIG. 13 shows an enlarged portion of FIG. 12, with the reel moved
aside to clearly show the workings of the hose deployment sensor.
FIG. 14 shows a rear view of the embodiment according to FIG. 1.
FIG. 15 shows a side view of a deployer according to another
preferred embodiment of the present invention, in a non-deploying
state.
FIG. 16 shows a side view of the deployer according to FIG. 15, in a
deploying state.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST MODES AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF
THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 shows a side plan view of a pool cleaning system 100,
retracted into its pool-wall housing 120, according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, pool cleaning
system 100 comprises automatic vacuum assembly 110, housing 120, and
vacuum pump 130, as shown. Preferably, automatic vacuum assembly 110
is housed within housing 120, and is connected to vacuum pump 130,
as shown. Preferably, automatic vacuum assembly 110 is stored in
housing 120 when vacuum pump 130 is off, as shown, and automatic
vacuum assembly 110 automatically deploys vacuum hose 112 into pool
102 through door 122 when vacuum pump 130 is on, as shown. Automatic
vacuum assembly 110 is shown in FIG. 1 in a retracted, stored state,
where automatic vacuum assembly 110 is entirely within housing 120.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in
technology, user preference, etc., other automatic vacuum assembly
components, such as timers, sensors, remote controls, chemical
addition systems, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, housing 120 is built into the side of a pool, preferably
under a portion of the pool deck, which communicates with the water
in the pool, so that automatic vacuum assembly 110 may be placed
into housing 120 and be substantially submerged below the waterline
of the pool, as shown (at least embodying herein the step of storing
at least one hose reel in at least one body of water). Preferably,
housing 120 is about one foot wide by about two feet deep (excluding
the tunnel to door 122) by about four feet tall. Preferably
automatic vacuum assembly 110 is submerged within housing 120 and
automatic vacuum assembly 110 is kept constantly full of water,
which is necessary for most vacuum pumps 130. This eliminates the
typical step of priming a vacuum hose 112 prior to use. Preferably,
automatic vacuum assembly 110 is kept conveniently close to the
pool, and retracts out of sight when not in use. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference,
etc., other arrangements, such as placing the housing underneath the
pool, having a dry housing, and keeping the hoses filled with water
by other means, other housing dimensions, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, housing 120 communicates to the pool through door 122,
as shown. Preferably, door 122 is entirely below the waterline of
the pool, as shown. Preferably, door 122 is hinged on one side, and
is opened and closed by the deployment and retraction of automatic
vacuum assembly 110. Preferably, door 122 is held open, preferably
open about 180 degrees against the adjacent pool wall, when
automatic vacuum assembly 110 is in a deployed state. Preferably,
door 122 is held closed when automatic vacuum assembly 110 is in a
retracted state. Preferably, door 122 is about fourteen inches wide
by about fourteen inches tall. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other
arrangements, such as bifold doors, sliding doors, no door, a door
partially above the waterline, a door large enough to insert and
remove the automatic vacuum assembly, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, housing 122 communicates to the pool deck surface
through surface hatch 124, as shown. Preferably, surface hatch 124
is large enough to permit access to automatic vacuum assembly 110
for cleaning and repairs, as shown. More preferably, surface hatch
124 is large enough to permit automatic vacuum assembly 110 to be
conveniently inserted into and removed from housing 120, as shown.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in
technology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, such as no
surface hatch, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, housing 120 is constructed while the pool is being
constructed, by digging a sufficiently-sized hole, inserting
concrete form 126 positioned to connect with the interior of the
pool, and then filling the remainder of the hole with concrete
(preferably shotcrete). Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other
arrangements, such as retrofitting an existing pool, using other
structural materials, not using a form, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, vacuum pump 130 is a central vacuum pump of the sort
commonly known in the art of swimming pools. Preferably, vacuum pump
130 connects to hydraulic system 150 of automatic vacuum assembly
110, further described below.
Preferably, automatic vacuum assembly 110 comprises vacuum hose 112,
deployer 114, reel 116, and retractor 118, as shown. Preferably,
automatic vacuum assembly 110 also comprises chassis 111 and vacuum
cleaner 113, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other
components, such as timers, sensors, chemical adding equipment,
etc., may suffice.
Preferably, vacuum hose 112 comprises a reinforced, two-inch
diameter swimming pool vacuum hose of the sort known in the art of
swimming pool maintenance, as shown, such as those manufactured by
Hayward Pool Products, Inc., of Elizabeth, N.J., US. Preferably,
vacuum hose 112 has a laterally-ridged exterior surface. Preferably,
vacuum hose 112 has a first end 202, preferably connected to vacuum
cleaner 113, as shown, and a second end 204, which is preferably
secured inside reel 116 and which preferably detachably connects to
hydraulic system 150 (as shown in FIG. 9). Preferably, vacuum hose
112 is wound onto reel 116 for storage, as shown (at least embodying
herein the step of reeling at least one hose onto such at least one
hose reel in such at least one body of water; and at least embodying
herein the step of storing such at least one hose reel having such
at least one hose in such at least one body of water). Upon reading
the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in
the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference,
etc., other arrangements, such as a stopper on the end of the vacuum
hose to prevent the vacuum hose from retracting into the deployer
when the vacuum cleaner is removed, other vacuum hose types, other
vacuum hose diameters, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, reel 116 comprises hub 206, sides 208, and axle 210
(shown in cross-section in FIG. 13). Preferably, axle 210 connects
to chassis 111, as shown. Preferably, hub 206 is two hose-widths
wide, as shown in FIG. 13, and sides 208 are tall enough to hold
about seven lengths of standard four-foot long vacuum hoses 112
(about 28 feet of two-inch diameter vacuum hose 112). Upon reading
the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in
the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference,
pool size, etc., other arrangements, such as the reel being wide
enough to hold three hose-widths, sized to hold ten hose-lengths,
holding a length of hose suited for a particular pool, a
single-piece hose of the required length, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, chassis 111 supports the other components of automatic
vacuum assembly 110, as shown. Preferably, chassis 111 comprises
aluminum bar stock, as shown.
Preferably, automatic vacuum assembly 110 is constructed of
materials able to withstand prolonged submersion in pool water, such
as, for example, ozonated water, chlorinated water, or salt water.
Preferred materials include aluminum, stainless steel,
oxidation-resistant plastics such as, for example, Teflon and PVC,
etc. Where multiple types of metals are used, care should be taken
to prevent galvanic corrosion reactions. Upon reading the teachings
of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other
materials, such as other metals, other plastics, composite
materials, coated materials, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, retractor 118 retracts vacuum hose 112 when vacuum hose
112 is released from deployer 114 and is allowed to move freely.
Preferably, retractor 118 rotates reel 116 counterclockwise to wind
vacuum hose 112 onto reel 116, as shown. Preferably, retractor 118
comprises spring 220, as shown, which is wound when vacuum hose 112
is deployed from reel 116 (at least embodying herein wherein such
step of reeling such at least one hose on to such at least one hose
reel in such at least one body of water further comprises the step
of using at least one spring to reel such at least one hose on to
such at least one hose reel in such at least one body of water).
Preferably, spring 220 comprises a constant-force spring, as shown.
Preferably, spring 220 comprises spring hub 221, which is preferably
attached to axle 210, drum 222, which is preferably attached to
chassis 111 by bracket 223, and spring band 224, as shown. Upon
reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary
skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering such issues as advances in technology,
user preference, etc., other retractors, such as other types of
springs, motorized retractors, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, deployer 114 comprises carriage 230, deployment bellows
232, housing 234, and drive system 236, as shown. Preferably,
deployer 114 moves to deploy the first end 202 of vacuum hose 112
into the pool during vacuuming (at least embodying herein the step
of unreeling such at least one hose off of such at least one hose
reel in such at least one body of water), and retracts into housing
120 for storage, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other
deployers, such as a motorized reel, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, carriage 230 comprises four carriage bars 231, which are
each pivotally connected to housing 234 at one end, and to chassis
111 at the other end, as shown. Preferably, carriage 230 moves from
the upright, retracted position shown into a tilted, deployed
position (as shown in FIG. 2) when pulled by deployment bellows 232.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in
technology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, such as other
numbers of carriage bars, other types of carriages, motorized
carriage movement, other types of carriage movement such as sliding
on rails, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, deployment bellows 232 comprise one or more deployment
bellows 232, as shown. Preferably, deployment bellows 232 are
attached to carriage 230 at one end, preferably with bracket 233,
and are attached to chassis 111 at the other end, as shown.
Preferably, deployment bellows 232 are also attached to hydraulic
system 150, preferably near the end of deployment bellows 232
attached to chassis 111, as shown. Preferably, when vacuum pump 130
is turned on, hydraulic system 150 pulls water out of deployment
bellows 232, compressing deployment bellows 232, and pulling
carriage 230 forward (as shown in FIG. 2). Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference,
etc., other types of hydraulic actuators, such as other numbers of
bellows, other shapes of bellows, other diameters of bellows,
hydraulic pistons, hydraulic motors, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, housing 234 comprises two substantially flat, parallel
metal plates 235, which preferably provide structural support for
drive system 236 and connection points for carriage 230, as shown.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in
technology, user preference, etc., other housings, such as an
arrangement of bars, additional enclosed sides, other shapes, other
sizes, other materials, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, drive system 236 comprises hydraulic motor 240, drive
wheels 242, gears 243, drive chain 244, idle sprocket 246, wheel
positioner bellows 247, wheel positioner lever 248, and wheel
positioner spring 249, as shown.
Preferably, hydraulic motor 240 comprises a vane-type hydraulic
motor of the sort known in the art of hydraulics. Preferably, vacuum
pump 130 draws water from inside housing 120 through hydraulic motor
240, causing hydraulic motor 240 to turn and drive gears 243.
Preferably, when vacuum pump 130 is turned on, hydraulic motor 240
drives gears 243, which in turn drive chain 244, which turns drive
wheels 242, as shown (at least embodying herein wherein the step of
unreeling such at least one hose off of such at least one hose reel
in such at least one body of water further comprises the step of
using at least one hydraulic motor to unreel such at least one hose
off of such at least one hose reel in such at least one body of
water). Preferably simultaneously, hydraulic system 150 pulls water
out of wheel positioner bellows 247, pivoting wheel positioner lever
248, and moving drive wheels 242 to engage vacuum hose 112 (as shown
in FIG. 2). Preferably, drive chain 244 tension is maintained by
idle sprocket 246, which is preferably tensioned by sprocket spring
245, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in
technology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, such as a
motorized wheel positioner, other methods of engaging the drive
wheels with the vacuum hose, gears instead of a drive chain, etc.,
may suffice.
Preferably, when vacuum pump 130 is turned on, hydraulic system 150
simultaneously powers hydraulic motor 240, retracts wheel positioner
bellows 247, and retracts deployment bellows 232, thereby
automatically deploying automatic vacuum assembly 110, as shown.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in
technology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, such as
timing these actions separately, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, when drive wheels 242 are engaged with vacuum hose 112
and are turning, vacuum hose 112 is pulled off of reel 116, and is
pushed out into the pool (as shown in FIG. 2). Preferably, this
continues until vacuum hose 112 is substantially entirely reeled off
of reel 116, as shown.
Preferably, when vacuum hose 112 is fully deployed, hydraulic system
150 automatically switches vacuum pump 130 suction from deployer 114
to vacuum hose 112, as shown, pulling water through vacuum hose 112,
preferably to be filtered and returned to the pool (at least
embodying herein the step of pulling at least one flow of water
through such at least one hose). Preferably, vacuum cleaner 113 is
connected to the first end 202 of vacuum hose 112, and is deployed
with vacuum hose 112, as shown. Preferably, vacuum cleaner 113 is a
vacuum-powered random-motion pool vacuum of the sort known in the
art, such as, for example, the Navigator Automatic Pool Cleaner
manufactured by Hayward Pool Products, Inc., of Elizabeth, N.J., US.
Once deployed, vacuum cleaner 113 preferably cleans the pool until
vacuum pump 130 is turned off. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other
arrangements, such as no vacuum cleaner, a surface skimmer, wand
vacuums, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, when vacuum pump 130 is turned off, automatic vacuum
assembly 110 automatically retracts, as shown. Preferably, when
vacuum pump 130 is turned off, deployment bellows 232 are released
from suction and fill with water, permitting retraction spring 252
to pull carriage 230 back into the upright, retracted position, as
shown. Preferably simultaneously, wheel positioner bellows 247 is
released from suction and fills with water, permitting wheel
positioner spring 249 to pull wheel positioner lever 248 to
disengage drive wheels 242 from vacuum hose 112, as shown.
Preferably, when vacuum hose 112 is released from drive wheels 242,
retractor 118 rotates reel 116 counterclockwise to wind vacuum hose
112 onto reel 116, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other
arrangements, such as motorized retraction, timed sequences of
retraction steps, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 2 shows a side plan view of automatic vacuum assembly 110
according to FIG. 1, in a deployed position. Preferably, when
automatic vacuum assembly 110 is deployed, vacuum cleaner 113 is
carried far enough away from the wall of the pool that vacuum
cleaner 113 does not scrape against the side of the pool during
deployment or retraction, as shown.
FIG. 3 shows a detail of the upper portion of automatic vacuum
assembly 110 of FIG. 1. Preferably, housing 234 supports one or more
hose guide wheels 241, as shown, which guide vacuum hose 112,
especially during retraction. Retraction sensor 300 is further shown
and described in FIGS. 6 and 7. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other
arrangements, such as other hose guides, other hose guide
placements, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 4 shows a rear view of deployer 114 of FIG. 1. Preferably,
housing 234 comprises hose guide 400, as shown, which is preferably
flared at the ends to prevent vacuum hose 112 from catching during
deployment, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other
arrangements, such as hose guide wheels, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 5A shows a side view of a drive wheel 242 of FIG. 1.
FIG. 5B shows an edge view of the drive wheel 242 of FIG. 5A.
Preferably, drive wheel 242 has a v-shaped, ridged interior, as
shown, adapted to grip and pull vacuum hose 112. Preferably, drive
wheels 242 are molded of plastic, with metal axles. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference,
etc., other arrangements, such as pairs of wheels instead of
v-shaped wheels, smooth wheels, other sizes of wheels, other wheel
materials, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 6 shows a detail of the upper portion of automatic vacuum
assembly 110 according to FIG. 1, detailing retraction sensor 300 in
a latched position, during vacuum hose 112 retraction. Preferably,
retraction sensor 300 comprises a system of levers 605 connecting
stopper 610 with latch 615, as shown. Preferably, when carriage 130
is in a deployed position, latch 615 catches on block 620, locking
carriage 130 in the deployed position, as shown. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference,
etc., other types of retraction sensors, such as electronic sensors,
other mechanical sensors, other sensing criteria, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 7 shows a detail of the upper portion of automatic vacuum
assembly 110 according to FIG. 1, detailing retraction sensor 300 in
an unlatched position, after vacuum hose 112 retraction. Preferably,
when vacuum hose 112 is fully retracted, vacuum cleaner 113 bumps
stopper 610, moving levers 605 and releasing latch 615 from block
620, as shown. Preferably, at this point in the retraction process,
deployment bellows 232 has also been released from suction by
hydraulic system 150, and retraction spring 252 pulls carriage 230
into the retracted position, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of
this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other
retraction sensors, such as electronic sensors, other mechanical
sensors, other lever arrangements, other types of latches, etc., may
suffice.
FIG. 8 shows a diagram of hydraulic system 150 according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, hydraulic
system 150 comprises automatic switch 800, trunk hose 805, bellows
hoses 810, hydraulic motor hose 815, vacuum supply hose 820, and
deployment sensor hose 825, as shown. Preferably, automatic switch
800 automatically switches the vacuum provided by vacuum pump 130
from deployer 114 to vacuum hose 112 when vacuum hose 112 is fully
deployed, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other
automatic switches, such as electric valve switches, other types of
automatic switch valves, other hose arrangements, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, automatic switch 800 comprises switch bellows 830,
piston 832, piston spring 834, valves 836, and chamber 838, as
shown. Preferably, two valves 836 are spaced along piston 832 in
chamber 838, and slidingly seal against the sides of chamber 838, as
shown. Preferably, piston 832 with valves 836 is moved
longitudinally within chamber 838 by switch bellows 830, as shown.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in
technology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, such as
flapper valves, multiple valve bellows, electronic switches, etc.,
may suffice.
Preferably, trunk hose 805 connects to chamber 838 between valves
836 at one end, and connects to vacuum pump 130 at the other end, as
shown. Preferably, hydraulic motor hose 815 connects to chamber 838
so that hydraulic motor hose 815 communicates with trunk hose 805
when switch bellows 830 is extended, as shown. Preferably, piston
spring 834 acts to keep switch bellows 830 extended, as shown.
Preferably, vacuum supply hose 820 connects to chamber 838 so that
vacuum supply hose 820 communicates with trunk hose 805 when switch
bellows 830 is compressed, as shown in hidden lines. Upon reading
the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in
the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference,
etc., other arrangements, such as other hose routings, other numbers
of hoses, other hose connections, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, bellows hoses 810 are connected to trunk hose 805 so
that bellows hoses 810 are under vacuum whenever vacuum pump 130 is
on, as shown. Preferably, bellows hoses 810 connect to deployment
bellows 232 and wheel positioner bellows 247, so that deployment
bellows 232 and wheel positioner bellows 247 are under vacuum
whenever vacuum pump 130 is on, as shown. Upon reading the teachings
of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other
arrangements, such as latches to keep the bellows compressed during
vacuuming, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, deployment sensor hose 825 is crosslinked between trunk
hose 805 and switch bellows 830, as shown, so that deployment sensor
hose 825 is under vacuum whenever vacuum pump 130 is on. Preferably,
deployment sensor hose 825 is open to water at the far end when
vacuum hose 112 is reeled on reel 116, as shown in FIG. 9.
Preferably, deployment sensor hose 825 is closed at the far end when
vacuum hose 112 is substantially unreeled from reel 116 (i.e., when
vacuum hose 112 is fully deployed), as shown in FIG. 11. Preferably,
when deployment sensor hose 825 is closed at the far end, suction is
applied to switch bellows 830, compressing switch bellows 830 and
moving valves 836 so that vacuum supply hose 820 communicates with
trunk hose 805, as shown, so that pool vacuuming automatically
begins (at least embodying herein wherein such step of automatically
switching further comprises the step of actuating at least one
liquid-actuated bellows). Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other
arrangements, such as other types of deployment sensors, etc., may
suffice.
FIG. 9 shows a diagram of the state of hydraulic system 150 during
vacuum hose 112 deployment, with sprung lever 915 depressed.
Preferably, automatic vacuum assembly 110 comprises hose deployment
sensor 900, as shown. Preferably, hose deployment sensor 900
comprises deployment sensor hose 825, sensor hose stopper 905, hose
stopper spring 910, sprung lever 915, and sprung bar 920, as shown.
Preferably, sprung lever 915 lies across reel hub 916, so that
sprung lever 915 is compressed when vacuum hose 112 is wound around
reel hub 916 and over sprung lever 915, as shown, and so that sprung
lever 915 is released into an upward slanted position when vacuum
hose 112 is wound off of sprung lever 915, as shown. Preferably, one
end of sprung lever 915 is hinged and sprung, and the other end of
sprung lever 915 is connected to the lower end of sprung bar 920, as
shown, preferably through a slot in reel 116, as shown.
Preferably, sprung bar 920 is radially mounted on the outside of
reel 116, as shown. Preferably, sprung bar 920 is in a lowered
position when sprung lever 915 is compressed, and is pulled into a
raised position (away from reel hub 916) by sprung lever 915 and bar
spring 921 when sprung lever 915 is released (as shown in FIG. 10,
and shown in cross-section in FIG. 14).
Preferably, when sprung bar 920 is lowered, the top end of sprung
bar 920 does not touch sensor hose stopper 905 as reel 116 turns.
Preferably, when sprung bar 920 is raised, the top end of sprung bar
920 presses hose stopper 905 against the open end of deployment
sensor hose 825 as reel 116 turns, sealing the end of deployment
sensor hose 825 (as shown in FIG. 11) and causing suction to be
applied to switch bellows 830.
Preferably, when sprung bar 920 presses hose stopper 905 against the
open end of deployment sensor hose 825, the rotation of reel 116 is
stopped at that point, as shown. Preferably, the second end 204 of
vacuum hose 112 is connected to an opening 950 in reel 116 near axle
210, as shown. Preferably, vacuum supply hose 820 is fixed to
chassis 111, with the end of vacuum supply hose 820 flush with the
exterior of reel 116, as shown. Preferably, when sprung bar 920
presses hose stopper 905 against the open end of deployment sensor
hose 825 and reel 116 is stopped in that position, the end of vacuum
supply hose 820 aligns with opening 950 which communicates with
vacuum hose 112 (as shown in FIG. 11), thereby connecting vacuum
supply hose 820 to vacuum hose 112, as shown (at least embodying
herein further comprising the step of automatically switching such
at least one vacuum pump from pulling water through such at least
one hydraulic motor to pulling water through such at least one
vacuum hose after such at least one vacuum hose is unreeled from
such at least one reel). Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other
arrangements, such as a swivel joint inlet on the axle connecting
the vacuum hose to the vacuum supply hose, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 10 shows a diagram of the state of hydraulic system 150 during
vacuum hose 112 deployment, with sprung lever 915 released.
FIG. 11 shows a diagram of the state of hydraulic system 150 during
vacuuming.
FIG. 12 shows a cross-section through section 12-12 of FIG. 10.
FIG. 13 shows detail 13 of FIG. 12, exploded, with reel 116 moved
aside to clearly show the workings of hose deployment sensor 900.
Preferably, sprung lever 915 comprises bracket 1305, hinge 1307,
spring 1310, lever 1315, and arm 1320, as shown. Preferably, bracket
1305 connects lever 1315 to reel 116, through hinge 1307, as shown.
Preferably, spring 1310 holds lever 1315 up when lever 1315 is not
compressed by vacuum hose 112, as shown.
Preferably, sprung bar 920 comprises bar 1330, bolt 1335, spacer
1340, bracket 1345, and spring 1350, as shown. Preferably, bar 1330
slides freely between spacer 1340 and bracket 1345, as shown.
Preferably, spring 1350 connects at one end to bracket 1345, and at
the other end to the lower portion of bar 1330, so that spring 1350
pulls bar 1330 upward (away from reel hub 916) when sprung lever 915
is released, as shown.
Preferably, sprung lever 915 is connected to bar 1330 by bolt 1335,
as shown. Preferably, the bolt-hole in arm 1320 is loose, to
accommodate various angles of intersection of arm 1320 and bolt
1335, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in
technology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, such as
hinged connections, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, hose stopper 905 comprises bracket 1360, hinge 1365,
lever 1370, pad 1375, and spring 1380, as shown. Preferably,
deployment sensor hose 825 is supported by bracket 1390 and strap
1391, as shown.
Preferably, bracket 1360 is fixedly connected to chassis 111, as
shown, and is connected to lever 1370 by hinge 1365, as shown.
Preferably, lever 1370 is held away from the end of deployment
sensor hose 825 by spring 1380, as shown. Preferably, pad 1375 is
attached to the underside of lever 1370, as shown. Preferably, pad
1375 comprises a resilient, water-resistant material able to seal
against the end of deployment sensor hose 825 when lever 1370 is
pressed down by sprung bar 920. More preferably, pad 1375 comprises
polyurethane foam. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in
technology, user preference, etc., other arrangements, electronic
sensors, electronic valve switches, other pad materials, other types
of deployment sensors, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 14 shows a rear view of the embodiment according to FIG. 1.
Preferably, chamber 838 is constructed from PVC pipe sections.
Preferably, vacuum hose 112 is attached to reel 116 with a 90-degree
PVC pipe fitting, as shown. Preferably, vacuum hose 112 is attached
to reel 116 with a 90-degree PVC pipe fitting, as shown. Preferably,
hydraulic motor hose 815 is attached to hydraulic motor 240 with a
90-degree PVC pipe fitting, as shown. Preferably, vacuum supply hose
820 is attached to chassis 111 adjacent reel 116 with a 90-degree
PVC pipe fitting, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now
understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such
issues as advances in technology, user preference, etc., other
arrangements, such as other types of pipe fittings, custom parts
manufactured, other materials, etc., may suffice.
In this preferred alternate embodiment, bellows hoses 810 are
connected to chamber 838 adjacent trunk hose 805, as shown, instead
of directly to trunk hose 805, as was shown in FIG. 8. This
arrangement functions in the same way as was described in FIG. 8.
FIG. 15 shows a side view of deployer 1514 according to another
preferred embodiment of the present invention, in a non-deploying
state. Preferably, deployer 1514 comprises housing 1534 and drive
system 1536, as shown.
Preferably, housing 1534 comprises two substantially flat, parallel
metal plates 1535, as shown, which preferably provide structural
support for drive system 1536 and connection points for chassis 111,
as shown. Preferably, housing 1534 is fixedly connected to chassis
111, preferably near door 122. Therefore, in this preferred
embodiment, deployment bellows 232 and retraction sensor 300 are not
required.
Preferably, housing 1534 comprises hose guide 1537. Preferably, hose
guide 1537 is fixedly attached to chassis 111. Upon reading the
teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the
art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering such issues as advances in technology, user preference,
etc., other arrangements, such as a hose guide that extends when the
door is opened, a hose guide that extends when the hose is deployed,
etc., may suffice.
Preferably, drive system 1536 comprises hydraulic motor 240, drive
wheel 242, gears 1543, drive chain 1544, wheel positioner bellows
1547, wheel positioner lever 1548, and wheel positioner spring 1549,
as shown.
Vacuum supply hose 815 is attached to hydraulic motor 140, but is
not shown.
FIG. 16 shows a side view of deployer 1514 according to FIG. 16, in
a deploying state. Preferably, when vacuum pump 130 is turned on,
hydraulic motor 240 drives gears 1543, which in turn drive chain
1544, which turns drive wheel 242, as shown. Preferably
simultaneously, hydraulic system 150 pulls water out of wheel
positioner bellows 1547, pivoting wheel positioner lever 1548, and
moving drive wheel 242 to engage vacuum hose 112, as shown (at least
embodying herein wherein the step of using at least one hydraulic
motor to unreel such at least one hose off of such at least one hose
reel in such at least one body of water further comprises the step
of using at least one vacuum pump to pull water through such at
least one hydraulic motor).
Preferably, when vacuum pump 130 is turned off, wheel positioner
spring 1549 pulls wheel positioner lever 1548 to disengage drive
wheel 242 from vacuum hose 112, returning deployer 1514 to the state
shown in FIG. 15, as shown.
Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments
of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of
this invention includes modifications such as diverse shapes, sizes,
and materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims as
read in connection with the above specification.
Further, many other advantages of applicant's invention will be
apparent to those skilled in the art from the above descriptions and
the below claims.
EMBODIMENTS
Vacuum hose 112 at least embodies herein vacuum hose means for
providing at least one vacuum hose having at least one first end and
at least one second end; and at least embodies herein at least one
vacuum hose adapted to provide at least one vacuum hose having at
least one first end and at least one second end.
Vacuum cleaner 113 at least embodies herein wherein such at least
one vacuum hose further comprises at least one vacuum cleaner
adapted to provide at least one vacuum cleaner, wherein such at
least one vacuum cleaner is attached to such at least one first end
of such at least one vacuum hose.
Deployer 114 at least embodies herein hose deployer means for
deploying such at least one first end of such vacuum hose means into
the at least one pool of water; and at least embodies herein at
least one hose deployer adapted to deploy such at least one first
end of such at least one vacuum hose into such at least one pool of
water; and at least embodies herein wherein such at least one hose
deployer comprises at least one automatic hose deployer adapted to
automatically deploy such at least one vacuum hose when such at
least one vacuum pump is turned on; and at least embodies herein
wherein such at least one vacuum pump simultaneously powers such at
least one articulated carrier and such at least one hose deployer.
Reel 116 at least embodies herein hose reel means for providing at
least one hose reel for such vacuum hose means; and at least
embodies herein at least one hose reel adapted to provide at least
one hose reel for such at least one vacuum hose.
Retractor 118 at least embodies herein hose retractor means for
retracting such vacuum hose means onto such hose reel means; and at
least embodies herein at least one hose retractor adapted to retract
such at least one vacuum hose onto such at least one hose reel; and
at least embodies herein wherein such at least one hose retractor
comprises at least one automatic hose retractor adapted to
automatically retract such at least one vacuum hose when such at
least one vacuum pump is turned off.
Housing 120 at least embodies herein filler means for providing for
such vacuum hose means to remain continuously full of water; and at
least embodies herein at least one filler adapted to provide for
such at least one vacuum hose to remain continuously full of water;
and at least embodies herein wherein such at least one filler
further comprises at least one housing adapted to provide at least
one housing adapted to contain such at least one vacuum hose, on
such reel means, below such at least one waterline of such at least
one pool of water; and at least embodies herein wherein such at
least one vacuum hose is entirely within such at least one housing
when such at least one vacuum hose is in a retracted position.
Door 122 at least embodies herein wherein such at least one housing
further comprises at least one door adapted to provide at least one
exit from such at least one housing into such at least one pool of
water; and at least embodies herein wherein such at least one door
is below such at least one waterline of such at least one pool of
water.
Vacuum pump 130 at least embodies herein vacuum pump means for
providing at least one vacuum pump, wherein such vacuum pump means
is attached to such at least one second end of such vacuum hose
means; and at least embodies herein at least one vacuum pump adapted
to provide at least one vacuum pump, wherein such at least one
vacuum pump is attached to such at least one second end of such at
least one vacuum hose; and at least embodies herein at least one
vacuum pump adapted to provide at least one vacuum pump.
Carriage 230 at least embodies herein wherein such at least one hose
deployer comprises at least one articulated carrier adapted to carry
such at least one hose deployer from at least one retracted position
to at least one deployed position and vice versa.
Deployment bellows 232 at least embodies herein wherein such at
least one vacuum pump powers such at least one articulated carrier;
and at least embodies herein wherein such at least one hose deployer
comprises at least one hydraulic actuator.
Drive system 236 at least embodies herein at least one drive adapted
to drive such at least one hose-moving wheel off of such at least
one hydraulic motor.
Hydraulic motor 240 at least embodies herein wherein such at least
one hose deployer is powered by such at least one vacuum pump; and
at least embodies herein at least one hydraulic motor adapted to
power at least one motor with water moved by such at least one
vacuum pump; and at least embodies herein wherein such at least one
hose deployer is powered by such at least one hydraulic motor; and
at least embodies herein at least one hydraulic motor adapted to
provide at least one hydraulic motor; and at least embodies herein
wherein such at least one hydraulic motor is powered by such at
least one vacuum pump; and at least embodies herein at least one
hydraulic motor adapted to provide at least one hydraulic motor.
Hose guide wheels 241 at least embodies herein at least one
hose-guiding wheel adapted to guide such at least one vacuum hose;
and at least embodies herein at least one hose-guiding wheel adapted
to guide at least one hose.
Drive wheels 242 at least embodies herein at least one hose-moving
wheel adapted to move such at least one vacuum hose; and at least
embodies herein wherein such at least one hose-guiding wheel
comprises such at least one hose-moving wheel; a and at least
embodies herein at least one hose-moving wheel adapted to move such
at least one hose.
Drive chain 244 at least embodies herein wherein such at least one
drive comprises at least one drive chain; and at least embodies
herein at least one drive adapted to drive such at least one
hose-moving wheel off of such at least one hydraulic motor.
Idle sprocket 246 at least embodies herein further comprising at
least one drive tensioner adapted to provide consistent tension to
such at least one drive chain.
Wheel positioner bellows 247 at least embodies herein wherein such
at least one wheel compressor is actuated by such at least one
vacuum pump; and at least embodies herein wherein such at least one
wheel tensioner is tensioned by such at least one vacuum pump; and
at least embodies herein wherein such at least one hose deployer
comprises at least one hydraulic actuator.
Wheel positioner lever 248 at least embodies herein at least one
wheel compressor adapted to compress such at least one vacuum hose
between such at least one hose-guiding wheel and such at least one
hose-moving wheel; and at least embodies herein at least one wheel
tensioner adapted to tension such at least one hose between such at
least one hose-guiding wheel and such at least one hose-moving
wheel.
Retraction spring 252 at least embodies herein wherein such at least
one hose retractor comprises at least one spring adapted to wind
such at least one hose reel.
Retraction sensor 300 at least embodies herein at least one
retraction detector adapted to detect the complete retraction of
such at least one vacuum hose onto such at least one reel; and at
least embodies herein wherein such at least one articulated carrier
is adapted to carry such at least one hose deployer from at least
one deployed position to at least one retracted position when such
at least one retraction detector detects the complete retraction of
such at least one vacuum hose onto such at least one reel.
Automatic switch 800 at least embodies herein at least one automatic
switch adapted to automatically switch such at least one vacuum pump
from powering such at least one hose deployer to pulling water
through such at least one vacuum hose after such at least one hose
deployer deploys such at least one vacuum hose; and at least
embodies herein wherein such at least one hose deployer is powered
by such at least one vacuum pump prior to such at least one
deployment detector detecting the finished deployment of such at
least one vacuum hose off of such at least one reel; and at least
embodies herein wherein such at least one vacuum pump pulls water
through such at least one vacuum hose after such at least one
deployment detector detects the finished deployment of such at least
one vacuum hose off of such at least one reel; and at least embodies
herein at least one automatic switch adapted to automatically switch
such at least one vacuum pump from powering such at least one hose
deployer to pulling water through such at least one vacuum hose
after such at least one deployment detector detects the finished
deployment of such at least one vacuum hose off of such at least one
reel; and at least embodies herein at least one automatic switch
adapted to automatically switch such at least one vacuum pump from
powering such at least one hose deployer to pulling water through
such at least one vacuum hose after such at least one spring-loaded
switch is closed.
Switch bellows 830 at least embodies herein wherein such at least
one automatic switch comprises at least one hydraulic actuator.
Hose deployment sensor 900 at least embodies herein at least one
deployment detector adapted to detect the finished deployment of
such at least one vacuum hose off of such at least one reel.
Hose stopper 905 at least embodies herein at least one spring-loaded
switch adapted to provide at least one spring-loaded switch wherein
such at least one spring-loaded switch is open when such at least
one spring-loaded bar is pulled into such at least one retracted
position; and wherein such at least one spring-loaded switch is
closed when such at least one spring-loaded bar is released into
such at least one extended position and contacts such at least one
spring-loaded switch.
Sprung lever 915 at least embodies herein at least one spring-loaded
lever adapted to provide at least one spring-loaded lever on the
interior of such at least one reel wherein such at least one
spring-loaded lever is compressed when such at least one vacuum hose
presses such at least one spring-loaded lever; and wherein such at
least one spring-loaded lever is released when such at least one
vacuum hose is removed from such at least one spring-loaded lever.
Sprung bar 920 at least embodies herein at least one spring-loaded
bar adapted to provide at least one spring-loaded bar on the
exterior of such at least one reel wherein such at least one
spring-loaded bar is pulled into at least one retracted position
when such at least-one spring-loaded lever is compressed; and
wherein such at least one spring-loaded bar means is released into
at least one extended position when such at least one spring-loaded
lever is released.
* * * * *
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