EP1381742A1

EP1381742A1 - Cover for a swimming pool

Info

Publication number: EP1381742A1
Application number: EP02735028A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Rainer Dumont
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2001-04-17
Filing date: 2002-04-05
Publication date: 2004-01-21
Also published as: WO2002084053A1; DE10118208C1; DE10291633D2

Abstract

The invention relates to a cover for a swimming pool that is composed of individual mechanically interlinked elements. When the swimming pool is used, said cover rests on the bottom of the swimming pool. A buoyancy can be generated for the cover so that the cover floats on the water surface of the swimming pool when the latter is not used. The aim of the invention is to provide a cover that is reliable and safe. To this end, the individual elements are sealed hollow elements (1) that include at least one cavity (2) whose volume can be modified in such a manner that either a buoyancy in the direction of the water surface of the swimming pool or a descending force in the direction of the bottom of the swimming pool is generated.

Description

Cover for a swimming pool

description

The invention relates to a cover for a swimming pool, which is composed of individual elements that are mechanically connected to each other, which rests when the swimming pool is used on the base of the pool, for which a buoyancy can be generated, through which the cover when not in use at the pool Water surface of the swimming pool is floating.

Such a cover is known from DE 199 23 338 Cl. It is used to prevent or reduce water pollution and, especially in heated swimming pools, water and heat loss when the swimming pool is not in use. Since the cover works on the principle of Archimedes

(Buoyancy) works, it is housed in a space-saving manner on the base of the swimming pool in times when the swimming pool is used, so that aesthetic aspects are also taken into account.

The cover known from DE 199 23 338 Cl comprises several hollow profiles which are coupled to one another. Water can penetrate into the hollow profiles, so that the cover has a specific density of greater than 1 gram per cubic centimeter in order to be able to sink to the bottom in the water. An air chamber which can be ventilated and which is formed from an inflatable plastic hose is arranged in the hollow profiles. By inflating the plastic tube, the water that has penetrated into the hollow profiles is displaced. The air chamber or plastic tube is dimensioned so that when inflated, the cover has a specific density of less than 1 gram per cubic centimeter in order to be able to float in water.

A disadvantage of the cover known from DE 199 23 338 Cl is that the sinking and floating up cannot function reliably because of the amount of water penetrating into the hollow profiles or displaced from the hollow profiles can trigger uncontrollable flow processes which can result in an inclined position or tilting and thus damage to the cover.

Furthermore, the cover known from DE 199 23 338 Cl has the disadvantage that the volume of the air chamber or the air hose is limited to the extent that a considerable amount of water remains within the hollow profiles even in the ventilated state. This limits the effective buoyancy so that the load capacity of the cover is limited. Therefore, you can

Safety concerns arise, especially if the cover is to be used in a public swimming pool.

The cover known from DE 199 23 338 C1 also has the disadvantage that the hollow profiles have through openings on their underside in order to allow water to penetrate. This can lead to hygiene problems because dirt that cannot be cleaned is deposited in the interior of the hollow profiles. Soiling can also settle in the area of the passage openings, which are difficult to clean. In addition, in the floating state of the cover, the one caused in the swimming pool by the circulation system

Flow flow disturbed by the presence of the through openings.

The invention has for its object to provide a cover for a swimming pool that is reliable and safe in operation, so that the aforementioned disadvantages are avoided.

To achieve the object, the invention proposes for a cover of the type mentioned at the outset that the individual elements are sealed hollow elements which include at least one hollow chamber, the volume of which can be changed in such a way that either buoyancy towards the water surface of the swimming pool or a

Downforce is generated towards the base of the pool. Because the individual elements are sealed hollow elements, there is the essential advantage that no water needs to penetrate into the elements to sink or to be floated out of the elements for floating, so that the occurrence of uncontrollable flow processes is reliably prevented.

As sealed hollow elements, the individual elements are self-contained, so that their own volume changes in order to change the volume of their hollow chambers. This gives the great advantage of evenly occurring upward and downward movements.

Since no water needs to penetrate into the hollow elements and they change their own volume, the greatest possible volume is provided, which results in a very large buoyancy, so that the cover has a very high load-bearing capacity. Thus, as will be explained in the following with the aid of a numerical example, a load capacity of more than 300 Newtons per square meter can be easily realized.

As a result, the cover according to the invention can also be used in public swimming pools.

There are also no through openings in the individual elements, which avoids hygiene problems. Since the underside of the cover is in principle smooth, it is advantageously easy to clean and there are no disturbances to the flow flow caused by the circulation system.

The volume of the hollow elements or the hollow chambers can be changed by venting, for which purpose a pressure source, for example a compressor, can be provided in a known manner and can be connected on the suction or pressure side. In order to monitor or control the process of ventilation, a monitoring device can also be provided, which detects, for example, the pressure in the hollow chambers.

According to a preferred embodiment, the hollow element closes the at least one hollow chamber between an outer frame, an upper cover plate and a lower base plate, the distance between the upper cover plate and the lower base plate being variable for changing the volume of the at least one hollow chamber. As a result, when the volume is changed, the hollow element executes a lifting movement, so to speak, so that the buoyancy or output processes take place particularly evenly.

In order to limit the volume of the hollow elements, it can be provided that a first limiting device limits the distance between the upper cover plate and the lower base plate to a maximum value.

For this purpose, the first limiting device can be an edge which projects inwards on the outer frame and forms a stop for the lower base plate.

The inwardly projecting edge can be formed in one piece on the outer frame. However, it can also be provided that the inwardly projecting edge is formed by at least one profile which is fastened to the outer edge. In this case, it can be both a single circumferential profile and a plurality of profile segments, which can be firmly connected to the outer frame by means of known connection technology, for example a snap connection. If there are several profile segments, it is advantageous to design them each identically in order to keep the manufacturing costs low. For example, the at least one profile can be produced as a metal part in a stamping process. Because of the use in water and the hygiene required in swimming pools, the material for the at least one profile is preferably a stainless steel.

It can also be provided that a second limiting device limits the distance between the upper cover plate and the lower base plate to a minimum value. As a result, a minimum volume is maintained in the vented state, so that later ventilation to initiate a buoyancy process can be carried out reliably because, for example, the upper cover plate and the lower base plate are prevented from sticking together. The second limiting device can be formed in a simple manner by spacers which form a stop for the lower base plate. Such spacers can be attached or formed in one piece on the surface of the upper cover plate facing the lower base plate, on the surface of the lower base plate facing the upper cover plate or on the outer frame.

Alternatively, the second limiting device can be formed by channel-shaped depressions in the surface of the upper cover plate facing the lower base plate and / or by channel-shaped depressions in the surface of the lower base plate facing the upper cover plate. With this alternative come in the vented

Although the upper side of the lower base plate is in contact with the underside of the upper cover plate, later ventilation can be carried out reliably via the channel-shaped depressions acting as a flow channel. It is of significant advantage here that on the one hand the minimum volume is reduced in the deflated state and so there is a greater downforce, and on the other hand that a larger maximum volume is available in the aerated state and thus causes a greater lift.

In a particularly preferred manner, it is provided that the upper cover plate is firmly connected to the outer frame and the lower base plate is arranged so that it can be displaced within the outer frame such that its distance from the upper frame

Cover plate is changeable. Since the upper cover plate is firmly connected to the outer frame, the stability is very high, so that the cover is not only accessible, but can also absorb very high loads. The upper cover plate can be connected to the outer frame by means of known connection techniques, such as screws, rivets, gluing, latching, etc. This also gives the option of being able to replace the top cover plate.

A very advantageous embodiment in order to firmly connect the upper cover plate to the outer frame is to form the upper cover plate and the outer frame in one piece. It is then no longer possible to replace the top cover plate, but the ones that are otherwise required Connection elements saved. The one-piece design also offers advantages in terms of production, since the upper cover plate forms a solid element with the outer frame, which can be inexpensively manufactured from a plastic material, for example by injection molding.

In order to ensure the tightness of the hollow elements in the area of the upper cover plate, a seal arrangement can be arranged between the upper cover plate and the outer frame.

In the area of the lower base plate, the tightness is ensured in that the lower base plate is fastened to the outer frame by means of an elastic sealing arrangement. Due to the elastic sealing arrangement, the lower base plate can be moved within the outer frame.

Alternatively, the lower base plate can have a circumferential sealing arrangement which rests within the outer frame. As a result, the lower base plate is slidably guided over the circumferential sealing arrangement on the inside of the outer frame - similar to a cylinder / piston arrangement. Lip seals are preferred as the sealing arrangement, in particular those which have a self-reinforcing effect, that is to say their sealing effect increases with increasing volume or pressure in the hollow chamber.

So that the advantages that a cylinder / piston arrangement offers with regard to the sealing effect of the sealing arrangement and the guidance of the lower base plate are particularly effective, it can be provided that the outer frame has a cylindrical shape

Has receptacle, the lower base plate is piston-shaped and is guided in the cylindrical receptacle. The cylindrical receptacle in the outer frame can be produced very cheaply if the outer frame is manufactured as a plastic injection-molded part, especially if the upper cover plate forms a solid element with the outer frame. The lower base plate can also be manufactured inexpensively from a plastic material, for example by injection molding. In addition to their actual sealing function, the sealing arrangements also have a damping function due to their elasticity, particularly in the initial phase of a ventilation process. This is because the elasticity of the sealing arrangement counteracts the flow in the initial phase, so that the flow is initially distributed evenly over the individual elements until the flow is sufficient to overcome the elasticity of the sealing arrangement. Only then does the change in the volume of the hollow chambers begin. This promotes even ventilation of the individual elements and counteracts an inclined position or tilting of the cover when it is pushed up or down.

So that the individual elements can be ventilated and ventilated centrally, that is, starting from a common pressure source, the hollow chambers of the individual elements can advantageously be connected to one another in terms of flow technology by means of at least one connecting device. Are suitable as connecting devices

Quick couplings in particular, which enable simple and safe connection.

In order to connect the hollow chambers of two elements to one another, a connecting device has two connections. Such a connecting device is required when the elements are to be connected to one another on their sides.

If, on the other hand, the elements are to be connected to one another at their corners, a connecting device has four connections in order to connect four elements to one another. Even if this makes the connecting device itself more complex, the total number of connecting devices is reduced

Elements required connecting devices significantly, which brings cost and assembly advantages.

In a particularly advantageous manner, the individual elements can also be mechanically connected to one another by means of the at least one connecting device. This means that the individual elements are both mechanically coupled by means of one and the same connecting device, so that there is both a rigid cover and the hollow chambers of the individual elements are also connected to one another in terms of flow technology. This makes assembly easier. In addition, individual elements can be easily replaced if a defect should creep in.

A high security advantage arises when the hollow chambers of the individual

Elements can be shut off individually by means of at least one shut-off device. This means that the volume in the hollow chambers of the individual elements can be locked or locked after venting, i.e. when the cover is floating on the water surface. Since the individual elements are rigidly connected to one another, the load-bearing capacity of the cover is only insignificantly reduced if individual elements should leak due to a defect. Due to the barrier of the individual elements, their replacement is also easier, since the cover does not need to be lowered onto the base area and the water in the swimming pool does not need to be drained. It is also possible to mount the cover on the water surface if the hollow chambers of the individual elements are previously ventilated and shut off.

The at least one shut-off device is advantageously integrated into the at least one connecting device.

It is also advantageous if the at least one shut-off device

Establishes flow connection between the hollow chambers automatically when mechanically connecting the individual elements or automatically shuts off when mechanically releasing the individual elements. This considerably simplifies the assembly or replacement of a single element because there is no need to manually lock it. In addition, a higher level of security is guaranteed, since incorrect operation, which can result in unwanted venting, is almost completely ruled out.

In order to achieve particularly evenly occurring buoyancy or output processes, it can be provided that the individual element in the flow connection to the at least one hollow chamber has at least one flow channel. As a result, the hollow chambers are supplied from the flow channel, the Flow channels of the individual elements can be interconnected and connected to the central pressure source. The use of flow channels is particularly recommended for large swimming pools.

Ideally, the at least one flow channel can be formed in the outer frame or integrated there. However, it is also understood that the flow channel can be designed, for example, as a hose which is arranged within the hollow chamber.

Likewise, the at least one flow channel can be formed in the upper cover plate or integrated there.

In the event that - as explained above - a second limiting device through channel-shaped depressions in the surface of the upper cover plate facing the lower base plate and / or through channel-shaped depressions in the upper one

Cover plate facing surface of the lower base plate is formed, the channel-shaped recesses can also take over the function of the at least one flow channel, so that the effort for the design of the at least one flow channel is eliminated.

So that a controlled ventilation of the hollow chambers is achieved, it is further provided that the individual element in the flow connection to the at least one hollow chamber has at least one throttle device.

The at least one throttle device can be produced particularly inexpensively if it is designed as at least one passage opening in the wall between the at least one flow channel and the at least one hollow chamber. The desired throttling effect can be set relatively precisely both via the number of passage openings and their effective cross-sectional area.

Because the total amount of water from the top of the cover to the bottom of the cover during the buoyancy process, or the entire amount during the driven process Amount of water must flow from the bottom of the cover over the top of the cover, it is provided that the cover has a predetermined gap towards the edge of the swimming pool.

To a loss of water and heat through evaporation, as well as a

To reliably prevent water pollution by the ingress of foreign bodies, it can be provided that the predetermined gap is covered in the idle state of the cover by means of an edge strip made of a flexible material. Because the edge strip consists of a flexible material, for example silicone, it seals the cover to the edge of the swimming pool in the idle state on the one hand, and on the other hand releases the predetermined gap for the flow of water displaced during the stripping and buoyancy process in the actuated state.

So that the cover is kept at a distance from the edge of the swimming pool in order to keep the predetermined gap the same on all sides, it can further be provided that the cover is supported on the edge of the swimming pool by guide elements. For example, guide rollers or balls can be used as guide elements, which are attached to the elements facing the edge of the swimming pool. Elastic or spring-assisted guide elements are preferably used in order to be able to vaporize lateral movements of the cover during the buoyancy or output process.

There is also the possibility that the cover can be fixed at a predeterminable height above the base of the swimming pool by means of a locking device. A locking device is provided in a simple manner, for example, in that when the cover is lowered onto the base area of the swimming pool, stops, such as bolts or the like, can be easily mounted or removed at the edge or on the side walls of the swimming pool at the desired heights. be used where the cover comes to rest when floating, so that the water depth of the swimming pool is reduced. This gives the pool a variety of uses, for example by small children or non-swimmers as well as for swimming lessons, Water aerobics or the like. So not only is a cover provided, but the advantages of an otherwise very expensive moving floor system can also be used. Ideally, a locking device provided for height adjustment is combined with guide elements supported on the edge of the swimming pool.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the individual elements are mechanically connected to one another in such a way that a predetermined gap results between the elements. This can be achieved, for example, by means of appropriately designed connecting devices which hold the individual elements at a predetermined distance from one another. This not only improves the flow behavior of the amount of water during the buoyancy or downforce process, but also prevents the formation of puddles on the surface of the cover, since surface water can flow off through the gaps. This is particularly important if the cover is used for an outdoor swimming pool so that rainwater can also drain off.

The cover according to the invention does not require any further assembly or fastening devices on site, so that it can be easily retrofitted to existing swimming pools.

As a rule, a swimming pool has a rectangular shape. The adaptation of the cover to the shape of the swimming pool is ideally carried out by means of a grid, in such a way that the individual elements are of equal size. The grid is chosen so that the individual element is rectangular or square in shape, with both sides preferably having a length of the order of 0.3 to 1 meter. Elements in sizes 0.35 by 0.35 meters, 0.65 by 0.65 meters or 1 by 1 meter have proven to be particularly practical.

The order of magnitude of 0.3 to 1 meter proves to be favorable in that the upper one

Cover plate - like the lower cover plate and the outer frame - are preferably made of hard PVC, and therefore no significant deflection under Experiences stress. In addition, there is the reinforcing effect that results because the upper cover plate is statically supported on the lower base plate via the ventilated hollow chamber. In this respect, the thickness of the upper cover plate and lower base plate can be chosen to be relatively small

It has been shown to save costs that the individual elements are not only the same size, but also that the structure of the individual elements is identical. The greater the number of pieces in which identical individual elements can be produced, the greater this advantage.

However, the cover can also be adapted to other than rectangular shapes of the swimming pool. It is then necessary for the individual elements in the areas that lie outside the grid mentioned above to be adapted to the shape of the swimming pool, for example in the form of an arc, polygon, etc. It goes without saying that this results in higher costs.

In many cases, however, it may be sufficient to adapt only the upper cover plate to the deviating shape, in particular if only a relatively small surface section is to be covered.

To meet aesthetic considerations, the top of the top

Cover plate can be designed appealing. Special effects can be achieved if the upper cover plate and / or the lower base plate are transparent, for example if the swimming pool is equipped with underwater lighting.

If the top cover plate is transparent and the bottom plate is dark colored, you can even use the solar effect. When the cover is ventilated, i.e. floating, the air cushion between the upper cover plate and the lower base plate forms a heating medium that is heated by the solar energy entering through the transparent upper cover plate, and this heating via the dark-colored lower cover plate, which acts as a heat accumulator releases the water from the swimming pool. This makes a contribution to saving energy. If there are high security requirements, for example in the public area, it can be provided that the individual element comprises a warning device which detects changes in the properties of the at least one hollow chamber. For example, a leak can be detected early on the basis of a change in pressure or volume in order to be able to output an optical and / or acoustic warning signal.

The cover according to the invention and further features are explained in more detail below with reference to the drawing. To show:

1 schematically shows an exemplary embodiment of a cover according to the invention for a swimming pool in a perspective view,

2 shows the pneumatic circuit diagram of a cover according to the invention,

3 shows a first exemplary embodiment of two interconnected elements of the cover in a sectional view, the two elements being shown in a completely ventilated state,

4 shows a second exemplary embodiment of two interconnected elements of the cover in a sectional view, the two elements being shown in a partially ventilated state,

5 shows an element of the cover according to FIG. 3 in a sectional view, the element being shown in a completely vented state,

6a schematically the adaptation of the cover to a rectangular shaped swimming pool in a top view,

6b schematically shows the adaptation of the cover to an arbitrarily shaped swimming pool in a top view, 7 shows a third exemplary embodiment of an element of the cover and an associated connecting device in a perspective view,

8 shows two interconnected elements of the cover according to FIG. 7 in a sectional view, and

9 shows the pneumatic circuit diagram of a cover according to FIGS. 7 and 8,

the same parts are designated by the same reference numerals.

In Fig. 1, an embodiment of a cover according to the invention for a swimming pool is shown schematically in a perspective view. The cover is composed of individual elements 1, which are mechanically connected to one another and are of rectangular or square shape. The cover is shown on the one hand in the state when it rests on the base of the swimming pool when the swimming pool is used, and on the other hand is shown in the state when it floats on the water surface of the swimming pool when the swimming pool is not used. In order for the cover to float on the water surface, a pressure source 7, which is connected to the

Cover is connected, creates a buoyancy.

2 shows the pneumatic circuit diagram of a cover according to the invention. In the example, the cover is composed of a total of six individual elements 1, the individual elements 1 each being constructed identically. The individual elements 1 are fluidly connected to one another by means of connecting devices 3, which are shown here as quick-action couplings. The cover can thus be operated at a central pressure source 7, which can be connected to one of the elements via a connecting line 8.

The individual elements 1 have hollow chambers 2, the volume of which can be changed, so that either a buoyancy or an output is generated to operate the cover becomes. The volume of the hollow chambers 2 is changed by venting or venting using the pressure source 7. If buoyancy is desired, air is pumped into the hollow chambers 2 in order to increase their volume; if an output is desired, air is released from the hollow chambers 2 or sucked off by means of the pressure source 7 in order to reduce its volume.

The individual element 1 has a flow channel 6 in the flow connection to the hollow chamber 2, the flow connection being made from the flow channel 6 to the hollow chamber 2 via throttle devices 4. Because the effective cross section of the flow channel 6 is relatively large, the loading and

Vent the resulting flow initially within a very short time evenly over the individual elements 1, or their flow channels 6, in order to then be able to flow into and out of the hollow chambers 2 in a controlled manner via the throttle devices 3. As a result, the volume of the hollow chambers 2 is changed evenly, so that the cover is inclined or tilted when it is opened or

Abortion is reliably prevented.

In addition, the individual element 1 in the flow connections to the hollow chamber 2 has shut-off devices 5, which are arranged here between the connection devices 3 and the flow channel 6. By means of the

Shut-off devices 5, the hollow chambers 2 of the individual elements can be shut off after venting, so that not all elements are automatically vented if one of the elements 1 should leak due to a defect. This is essential for the security of the cover.

Fig. 3 shows a first embodiment of two elements of the cover interconnected on their sides in a sectional view, the two elements being shown in a completely ventilated state.

The individual elements 1 have an outer frame 11, an upper cover plate

12 and a lower base plate 13 to enclose the hollow chamber 2. The volume of the hollow chamber 2 changes when venting and venting, since the distance is changeable between the upper cover plate 12 and the lower base plate 13. The upper cover plate 12 is firmly and sealedly connected to the outer frame 11 by means of connection technology (not shown in more detail), so that there is a high degree of stability and the cover can carry heavy loads. The change in the distance takes place in that the lower base plate 13 relative to the upper

Cover plate 12 is slidably disposed within the outer frame 11.

A first limiting device 14a limits the distance between the upper cover plate and the lower base plate to a maximum value aMA _X - accordingly, the maximum volume of the hollow chamber 2 is also limited. The first

Limiting device 14a is designed as an inwardly projecting edge, which offers a stop for the lower base plate 13, and is fastened to the outer edge 11 or is integrally formed thereon.

The lower base plate 13 is fastened to the outer frame 11 by means of an elastic sealing arrangement 15 ', so that the lower base plate 13 is displaceable within the outer frame 11 and the tightness of the hollow chamber 2 or of the element 1 is ensured. Suitable material for the elastic sealing arrangement is, for example, soft PVC, which has a very high degree of elasticity.

The two elements 1 are connected to one another by means of a connecting device 3, which has two connections. The connecting device 3 connects the two elements 1 to one another not only in terms of flow technology, but also mechanically. For this purpose, the connecting device 3 also comprises a space-saving screw connection 3 a (with a union nut), through which a rigid coupling of the elements

1 is guaranteed. The shutoff device 5 (shutoff valve) is also arranged in the immediate vicinity of the connecting device 3. The connecting device 3 and the shut-off device 5 are accommodated together in a recess 11a of the outer frame 11, and are therefore easily accessible from the outside. In order not to disturb the outer appearance of the cover, the recess 11a is by means of a

Cover 12a can be covered, the cover 12a being flush with the upper cover plate 12 on the upper side. The flow channel 6 is designed here as a separate channel 16 with a rectangular cross section and is preferably made of PVC. The channel 16 is integrated into the outer frame 11 in a space-saving manner and is connected to the shut-off device 5 or the connecting device 3 in terms of flow technology. In the wall of the channel 16 facing the hollow chamber 2, passage openings 17 are formed which take over the function of the throttle device 4. The passage openings 17 are arranged as close as possible to the upper cover plate 12 so that when the hollow chamber 2 is completely ventilated, the passage openings 17 cannot be covered, for example by the lower base plate 13, which would adversely affect the ventilation ,

For this purpose, but also to prevent the upper base plate 12 and lower base plate 13 from sticking together in the vented state of the hollow chamber 2, a second limiting device 14b is also provided, which limits the distance between the upper cover plate and the lower base plate to a minimum value a _M i _N limited. The second limiting device 14b is formed by spacers, which offer a stop for the lower base plate 13, and are fastened to the upper base plate 12 or are integrally formed thereon.

A plastic such as hard PVC is preferably used as the material for the outer frame 11, the upper cover plate 12 and the lower base plate, which is characterized by high strength and a favorable density of 1.4 grams per cubic centimeter.

Fig. 4 shows a second embodiment of two interconnected elements of the cover in a sectional view, the two elements being shown in a partially ventilated state.

The difference in the structure of the individual element 1 compared to FIG. 3 is that the lower base plate 13 has a circumferential sealing arrangement 15 "and is guided over it on the inside of the outer frame 11. By a high To ensure tightness, the circumferential sealing arrangement 15 "is designed as a lip seal with a V-shaped profile. It goes without saying that, in this embodiment, the corners of the lower base plate are rounded in order to ensure a good sealing fit, and accordingly the corners of the outer frame 11 are shaped like a throat or have throat-shaped inserts.

FIG. 5 shows an element of the cover according to FIG. 3 in a sectional view, the element being shown in a completely vented state.

The structure of the element 1 corresponds to that in FIG. 3, it being clarified here how the second limiting device 14b limits the distance between the upper cover plate 12 and the lower base plate 13 in the vented state, so that the through openings 17 of the channel 16 are not covered ,

A guide roller 18 is attached to the element 1 on the side facing the edge of the swimming pool, so that the element 1 or the cover is held at a predetermined distance from the edge of the swimming pool, so that there is a gap through which the buoyancy during the buoyancy - And the driven process can flow the amount of water to be displaced.

6a shows schematically the adaptation of the cover to a rectangular shaped swimming pool in a top view. The shape of the swimming pool is divided into a grid in such a way that individual elements 1 of the same size result, which are of rectangular or square shape.

Fig. 6b shows schematically the adaptation of the cover to an arbitrarily shaped swimming pool in plan view. Here, too, it is first divided into a grid in such a way that the greatest possible number of individual elements 1 of the same size results. The elements 1 'then remaining in the edge area, which have to be adapted in an arc shape, are then custom-made products which, although they cause higher costs, but can be easily produced by appropriate shaping of the outer frame and adaptation of the upper cover plate and the lower base plate.

Custom-made products are also required if individual elements of the cover have to have openings that can be closed or covered, for example to allow cleaning equipment to be let in when the cover is floating, or the unimpeded function of nozzles in the base of the swimming pool when the cover is lowered are admitted to grant.

FIG. 7 shows a third exemplary embodiment of an element 1 of the cover and an associated connecting device 3 in a perspective illustration.

The frame 11 of the element 1 has a cylindrical receptacle 20 or bore in which the lower base plate, not shown here, is guided. To this

The purpose is to make the lower base plate piston-shaped here. At the lower open end of the cylindrical receptacle 20, the first limiting device 14a is designed as an inwardly projecting edge which is formed in one piece on the outer frame 11 and which, when the cover is ventilated, forms a stop for the lower base plate. When the element 1 is manufactured, the upper cover plate 12 is connected to the outer frame 11 after the lower base plate has been inserted into the cylindrical receptacle 20. It is understood that in an embodiment where the upper cover plate 12 and the outer frame 11 are integrally connected, the first limiting device 14a is a separate profile which is attached to the outer frame 11 after the lower base plate has been inserted.

The connecting device 3 has a total of four connections 3a, so that four elements 1 can be connected to one another at their corners by means of a connecting device 3. For this purpose, the connecting device 3 is circular

Element designed, the four connections 3a are distributed symmetrically with respect to the circular area. The outer frame 11 has at its corners Circular segment-shaped recesses 11c to receive the connecting device 3. In the center of the circle protrudes a circular pin 3 b, in which, for example, a thread can be introduced in order to mechanically firmly connect the connecting device 3 to the element 1 or the outer frame 11, for example by means of a screw 3d.

In principle, the connection device 3 and the outer frame 11 are plugged together, so that there is a flow connection from the connection 3 a via the flow channel 6 formed as a recess in the outer frame 11.

8 shows two interconnected elements 1 of the cover according to the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 7 in a sectional illustration. The two interconnected elements 1 are diagonally opposite elements.

The hollow chamber 2 of an element 1 is enclosed here between the outer frame 11, the upper cover plate 12 and the lower base plate 13. The elements 1 are in a completely ventilated state, so that the lower base plate 13 bears against the first limiting device 14a, which is designed as an integral part of the outer frame 11 and projects inward. The lower base plate 13 is fastened to the outer frame 11 by means of an elastic sealing arrangement 15 '.

The elements 1 are mechanically and fluidically connected to one another by means of the connecting device 3.

For the mechanical connection, the connecting device 3 is plugged together with a maximum of four elements 1, the connecting device 3 designed as a circular element being received in a form-fitting manner in the circular segment-shaped recesses 11c of the outer frame 11. In addition, they are about

Connections 3a formed circular pins sealed in corresponding receptacles of the outer frame. By the screw 3d, which in one in the circular pin 3b introduced thread is held, then there is a mechanically firm and secure connection.

The fluidic connection between the hollow chambers 2 of the elements 1 is via the flow channels 6 and the connections 3a, as well as in the

Connecting device 3 formed channels 3c or cavities. A shut-off device 5 is also arranged in the flow connection to each channel 3a. Ideally, the shut-off device is designed such that it automatically establishes the flow connection when the individual elements are mechanically connected (plugged together) or when the individual elements are mechanically released

Blocks items automatically. The connecting device 3 for the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 is preferably produced in one piece from a plastic material, for example by injection molding.

Fig. 9 shows the pneumatic circuit diagram of a cover according to the

Embodiment according to FIGS. 7 and 8. The advantage of this embodiment is clear, namely that a maximum of four elements can be connected to one another by means of a connecting device 3, so that in total the number of connecting devices 3 required for connecting the individual elements is considerably reduced.

Very essential for the cover according to the invention is its modular structure made up of individual elements which are constructed as identically as possible and are of the same size.

Finally, a simple numerical example is given for the cover according to the invention.

a.) A square element with a side length s of 1 meter and a height h of 7 centimeters has a total volume V _TOTAL of 70 liters: V _TOTAL = s * s * h

= 1 m * 1 m * 7 cm = 70 1 b.) If the upper cover plate and the lower base plate each have a thickness d of 1 centimeter and the frame a width b of 4 centimeters, the air volume VLUFT is 42.32 liters: VLUFT = (s - 2 * b) * (s - 2 * b) + (h - 2 * d)

= 92 cm * 92 cm * 5 cm = 42.32 1

c.) The actual volume of the VR _A HMEN frame is obtained by subtracting the air volume VLUFT from the total volume VTOTAL and is 27.68 liters:

FRAME ⁼ TOTAL - AIR

= 27.68 1

d.) With a density of the frame material of 1.4 grams per cubic centimeter (rigid PVC), the weight of the frame is GR _A HMEN

380.16 Newtons: FRAME = 1.4 g / cm ³ * FRAME * g

= 1.4 g / cm ³ * 27.68 1 * 9.81 m / s ² = 380.16 N

e.) In contrast, an element has a buoyancy F _A UFTRIEB of 686.7 Newton: FAUFTRIEB ⁼ 1 g / cm * TOTAL * g

= 1 g / cm ³ * 70 1 * 9.81 m / s ² = 686.7 N

f.) This results in a load capacity FTR _AG of 306.54 Newtons, or a load capacity Π ΓRA _G of 31.25 Kg for one element: FTRAG ⁼ FAUFTRIEB - GRAHMEN = 306.54 N

IΪITRAG ⁼ FTRAG / g

= 31.25 kg g.) Because of the rigid coupling of the individual elements of the cover to one another, this means in the case of a swimming pool with the dimensions 5 by 8 meters, which requires a total of 40 elements, that the cover has a total load capacity F _T RAG, TOTAL of 12.26 kilonewtons , or with a total weight of ΠITRAG, G _ES AM _T of 1.25 tons:

FτRAG, TOTAL = 40 * FTRAG

= 12.26 KN mτRAG, TOTAL ⁼ FτRAG, TOTAL / g

= 1.25 t

Claims

claims

1. cover for a swimming pool, - which is composed of individual elements which are mechanically connected to one another,

- which rests on the base of the swimming pool when the swimming pool is used,

- For which a buoyancy can be generated, through which the cover floats on the water surface of the swimming pool when the swimming pool is not used, characterized in that

- The individual elements are sealed hollow elements (1), which include at least one hollow chamber (2), the volume of which can be changed in such a way that either buoyancy in the direction of the water surface of the swimming pool or an output in the direction of the base area of the swimming pool is generated.

2. Cover according to claim 1, characterized in that

- The hollow element (1) includes the at least one hollow chamber (2) between an outer frame (11), an upper cover plate (12) and a lower base plate (13), with the distance for changing the volume of the at least one hollow chamber (2) between the upper cover plate (12) and the lower base plate (13) is changeable.

3. Cover according to claim 2, characterized in that a first limiting device (14a) limits the distance between the upper cover plate (12) and the lower base plate (13) to a maximum value (aM _A x).

4. Cover according to claim 3, characterized in that the first limiting device (14a) is an on the outer frame (11) inwardly projecting edge which forms a stop for the lower base plate (13).

5. Cover according to claim 4, characterized in that - The inwardly projecting edge is formed by at least one profile which is attached to the outer edge (11).

6. Cover according to one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that - a second limiting device (14b) the distance between the upper

Cover plate (12) and the lower base plate (13) limited to a minimum value (a m).

7. Cover according to claim 6, characterized in that - the second limiting device (14b) is formed by spacers, the one

Make a stop for the lower base plate (13).

8. Cover according to claim 6, characterized in that

- The second limiting device (14b) through channel-shaped depressions (21) in the surface of the upper cover plate (12) facing the lower base plate (13) and / or through channel-shaped depressions (21) in the surface facing the upper cover plate (12) lower base plate (13) is formed.

9. Cover according to one of claims 2 to 8, characterized in that - the upper cover plate (12) with the outer frame (11) is fixedly connected, and the lower base plate (13) within the outer frame (11) so displaceably arranged is that its distance from the upper cover plate (12) can be changed.

10. Cover according to claim 9, characterized in that a sealing arrangement is arranged between the upper cover plate (12) and the outer frame (11).

11. Cover according to claim 9, characterized in that - the upper cover plate (12) and the outer frame (11) are integrally formed.

12. Cover according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that

- The lower base plate (13) is fastened to the outer frame (11) by means of an elastic sealing arrangement (15 ').

13. Cover according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that

- The lower base plate (13) has a circumferential sealing arrangement (15 "), which rests within the outer frame (11).

14. Cover according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that - the outer frame (11) has a cylindrical receptacle (20), the lower base plate (13) is piston-shaped and is guided in the cylindrical receptacle (20).

15. Cover according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that - the hollow chambers (2) of the individual elements (1) by means of at least one

Connection device (3) are each fluidically connectable.

16. Cover according to claim 15, characterized in that - a connecting device (3) has two connections to connect two elements (1) to each other.

17. Cover according to claim 15, characterized in that

- A connecting device (3) has four connections to connect four elements (1) to each other.

18. Cover according to one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that

- The individual elements (1) can also be mechanically connected to one another by means of the at least one connecting device (3).

19. Cover according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the hollow chambers (2) of the individual elements (1) can each be shut off individually by means of at least one shut-off device (5).

20. Cover according to claim 19, characterized in that - the at least one shut-off device (5) in the at least one

Connection device (3) is integrated.

21. Cover according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that the at least one shut-off device (5) automatically establishes the flow connection between the hollow chambers (2) when mechanically connecting the individual elements (1) or when mechanically releasing the individual elements (1). shut off automatically.

22. Cover according to one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that - the individual element (1) in the flow connection to the at least one

Pressure chamber (2) has at least one flow channel (6).

23. Cover according to claim 22, characterized in that the at least one flow channel (6) is formed in the outer frame (11).

24. Cover according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that

- The at least one flow channel (6) is formed in the upper cover plate (12).

25. Cover according to claim 8 and 24, characterized in that the at least one flow channel (6) through the channel-shaped recesses (21) in the surface of the upper cover plate (12) facing the lower base plate (13) and / or through the channel-shaped recesses (21) is formed in the surface of the lower base plate (13) facing the upper cover plate (12).

26. Cover according to one of claims 1 to 25, characterized in that - The individual element (1) in the flow connection to the at least one hollow chamber (2) has at least one throttle device (4).

27. Cover according to claim 26, characterized in that - the at least one throttle device (4) as at least one passage opening

(17) is formed in the wall (16) between the at least one flow channel (6) and the at least one hollow chamber (2).

28. Cover according to one of claims 1 to 27, characterized in that - the cover has a predetermined gap towards the edge of the swimming pool.

29. Cover according to claim 28, characterized in that the predetermined gap is covered in the idle state of the cover by means of an edge strip consisting of a flexible material.

30. Cover according to one of claims 1 to 29, characterized in that

- The cover is supported by guide elements (18) on the edge of the swimming pool.

31. Cover according to one of claims 1 to 30, characterized in that the cover can be determined by means of a locking device at a predetermined height above the base of the swimming pool.

32. Cover according to one of claims 1 to 31, characterized in that the individual elements (1) are mechanically connected to one another in such a way that a predetermined gap results between the elements (1).

33. Cover according to one of claims 1 to 32, characterized in that - the individual element (1) is of rectangular or square shape, preferably both sides having a length of the order of 0.3 to 1 meter.

34. Cover according to one of claims 1 to 33, characterized in that

- The structure of the individual elements (1) is identical.

35. Cover according to one of claims 1 to 34, characterized in that

- The upper cover plate (12) and / or the lower base plate (13) are transparent.

36. Cover according to one of claims 1 to 34, characterized in that

- The upper cover plate (12) is transparent and the lower base plate (13) is dark colored.

37. Cover according to one of claims 1 to 36, characterized in that

- The individual element (1) comprises a warning device that detects changes in the properties of the at least one hollow chamber (2).