EP2478170B1 - Drive device for the cover of a liquid container - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a drive device for the cover of a liquid container, in particular a swimming pool, according to the preamble of patent claim 1.

As in [1], DE2756738A1 , is described, the cover of a swimming pool serves, inter alia, the thermal insulation. By covering the swimming pool premature cooling of the water can be avoided. Furthermore, the cover serves as a protective device which prevents children from falling into the pool. Furthermore, the cover prevents leaves and dirt from getting into the water. Optionally, the cover should also be walkable or at least a load, such as a layer of snow, can wear. Usually covers are used, which consist of strip-shaped profile elements, which are flexibly coupled together.

In most cases buoyant profile elements are used. In 2], EP1754846A1 However, it is proposed to provide on both sides of the pool support strips on which the ends of the profile elements can rest. Furthermore, in [2] the use of a mandrel is disclosed, on which the flat cover can be wound up. The mandrel is manually driven by a crank to pull the cover off the pool. To cover the pool again, the mandrel is released and the cover is manually removed from the mandrel. An automation of the device for unwinding and winding the cover is therefore not possible in this device even when the mandrel is driven by a motor.

In [3], US5761750A , a cover is described, which can be pulled by means of a drive device via a bathtub and back. For this purpose, a cabinet is provided outside the bathtub, within which a toothed roller is provided, which is supported by a shaft and driven by a motor. The toothed roller can engage with their teeth in grooves provided in the flexible interconnected profile elements of the cover, and push them back and forth. The cover is not wound up on the sprocket, but pushed past this in a matched to the cover memory channel. The device therefore requires a drive device and a cover, which are specially adapted to each other. Furthermore, this device is limited to smaller basins, since the memory channel can accommodate only a small number of flexibly interconnected profile elements, because the memory channel and the drive device itself take up much space. Furthermore, the entire device with the sprocket, the correspondingly adapted profile elements of the cover and the required memory channel is configured relatively complex.

However, the mentioned problems of isolation, protection and avoidance of pollution occur not only in swimming pools, but also in liquid containers, which can occur, for example, in production facilities of the chemical industry or in beverage production. From the DE2854738A1 , of the DE2358755A1 , of the FR2607173A1 and the FR2577264A1 Devices are known for covering a swimming pool, which have a flexible cover, which is rollable on a driven shaft to a winding.

The DE2854738A1 shows a guide which presses against the wound part of the cover and presses a developed part of the cover against a support rail. The cover is therefore exerted by two sides of a pressure, which is why a friction results and the transport of the cover is hindered.

In the devices of DE2358755A1 and the FR2577264A1 is located on the wound part of the cover to an outer tension element, which is not used to further guide the cover, which is either resting on water, resting on an inner tension element or resting on a deflection device to the outside, without the cover is securely guided.

In the device of FR2607173A1 is located on the wound part of the cover also an outer tension element, which leads the cover on the top only partially. At the bottom, the cover is supported only when reaching a deflecting device, so there is a risk that the cover can fold down or up.

The present invention is therefore an object of the invention to provide an improved drive device, which allows the cover of a liquid container, in particular a swimming pool, extend and retract.

In particular, a drive device is to be provided, which allows to drive any covers that float on the water or guided along guide surfaces.

Furthermore, the drive device should take up little space and require no memory channel, so that larger covers can be accommodated within the room in which the drive device is provided.

This object is achieved with a drive device for a liquid container, in particular a swimming pool cover, which has the features specified in claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in further claims.

The drive device, which serves to transport the cover of a liquid container, in particular a swimming pool, and by means of which the flexible cover can be pushed over the pool and withdrawn therefrom, is installed or installable in a device space arranged separately from the liquid container, and comprises at least a cooperating with the cover winding shaft, optionally a mandrel or a coil which is coupled to a first drive unit.

The cover is preferably made of strip-shaped profile elements which are flexibly connected to each other. For example, the profile elements are connected by joints or elastic materials. The profile elements are preferably rigid and have a low specific weight, so that they can either float on the water surface of the swimming pool or slide along guide rails. According to the invention, the winding shaft serves to wind the cover, which can be guided via a deflection device to an outlet opening of the device space and at the end facing the winding shaft is coupled to at least one outer tension element, which abuts against the side facing away from the deflection of the cover, and these against voltage the deflection device presses, and which is held by a first pulling device and can be tensioned by this. The first pulling device preferably comprises a coil on which the outer tension element can be wound up. In order for the process to take place automatically, the coil is preferably driven by means of the first or a second drive unit.

With the tightening of the or the outer tension members, the cover is unwound from the winding shaft, guided over the deflection device and pushed over the liquid container.

As the cover rolls up or unrolls, the diameter of the wound cover changes steadily. In order for these processes to proceed optimally, the deflection device is preferably rotatably mounted. In this way, the corresponding end of the deflection device, for example a runner, can follow the changing diameter of the wound cover.

Ideally, the outer traction element and the cover run parallel during extension. This is particularly advantageous particularly when the deflection device comprises sliding elements or one or more deflection rollers which are arranged along a correspondingly designed body. Furthermore, several pulleys can be used, which are enclosed by an endless belt. If the pulleys and / or or the endless belt are driven, the transport is additionally facilitated.

In order for the outer tension element and the deflection device to transmit power to the cover, the deflection device is preferably arranged and / or configured such that the cover does not run in a straight line, but via a detour to the outlet opening of the device space. In a preferred embodiment, the preferably extending from the winding shaft to the outlet opening extending body of the deflection is curved. Due to the rotatable mounting and the curved design of the body, the cover therefore runs along a curved path, whereby a uniform force distribution is achieved.

The deflection device can be positioned on one or the other side of the connecting line between the winding shaft and the outlet opening. When switching between the two variants, only a kinematic reversal occurs. The at least one outer tension element and the cover therefore preferably run synchronously and parallel to one another in the region of the outlet opening.

By pressing the cover to the deflection takes place a force from both sides on the cover, whereby it is conveyed without slippage. If a plurality of outer and optionally several inner tension elements are provided, they are preferably distributed along the winding shaft at equal intervals, which ensures that a uniform force on the cover results. In this case, single or combined pulling devices can be used. For example, traction devices with multiple coils used, which are driven by a single spool shaft.

In preferred embodiments, at least one inner tension element which can likewise be wound onto the winding shaft and which is held by a second pulling device and can be tensioned by the latter is provided on the side of the cover opposite the outer tension element. The cover is held by both sides of at least one inner tension member and at least one outer tension member and synchronously carried between them. The tensioned outer and inner tension elements and the deflection device define the path along which the flexible cover is guided.

The second pulling device preferably comprises a coil driven by the first or a third drive unit, which serves to wind up the inner tension element.

By tensioning the outer tension element and the inner tension element, the cover is therefore extended and conveyed through the outlet opening to the outside. The tension members are deflected in a preferred embodiment in the vicinity of the outlet opening and guided to the traction devices, which are preferably electrically driven together or separately.

Alternatively, other drive devices or traction devices can also be used, e.g. work by spring force.

The at least one outer tension element is guided via an upper exit roller to the first pulling device. The inner tension element is guided via a lower exit roller to the second pulling device, wherein the upper exit roller and / or the lower exit roller are arranged as close as possible to the outlet opening of the device space that the cover is guided and transported optimally up to this area.

The outer tension element and the inner tension element are preferably made of plastic, metal or textile material. For example, flat straps or ropes are used as tension elements. The dimensions of the tension elements are chosen depending on the material used. For example, band-shaped tension elements are selected with a width of 2 cm to 5 cm, which act vigorously but gently on the cover. However, belt-shaped tension elements can also be selected in a wider range with a width of, for example, 1 cm to 20 cm. Wire ropes can have a minimum diameter and take up little space, but are preferably used only when the cover is reinforced accordingly at the relevant points. The bobbins or reels on which the tension elements are wound up are adapted to the tension elements used.

Preferably, the ends of the tension elements are connected directly to the winding shaft. Furthermore, the tension elements are preferably connected to the cover such that an end piece of the tension elements that can be connected to the winding shaft is exposed. In this way, the cover can be easily connected by means of the tension elements with the winding shaft.

While the pulling devices serve to pull out the cover, the device is retracted again by means of the central winding shaft and wound up. The winding shaft is preferably driven in both directions and controlled accordingly. In this way, there is a relief of the traction devices when removing the cover. If several electric drives are operated simultaneously, they are synchronized accordingly by means of an electrical control. Provided However, only one drive unit is provided, the winding shaft and the at least one spool shaft are not rigid, but via balancing devices, such as differential gear, slip clutches or slip hubs, coupled together.

For example, the drive shaft of a single drive unit, preferably an electric motor, coupled via a first mechanical balancing device, such as a differential gear or a slip hub and a freewheel, with a first spool shaft of the first traction device. If a second traction device is present, then the drive shaft of the first drive unit or the first spool shaft of the first traction device via a second mechanical compensation device, such as a differential gear, an elastic connecting device or a slip hub and a freewheel, coupled to a second spool shaft of the second traction device. The compensation devices ensure that the rotational speeds of the preferably rigidly coupled to the winding shaft drive shaft and the spool shafts are adapted to each other, so that outer and inner tension elements are pulled with a constant force and tensioned evenly. The cover is therefore always guided evenly and correctly wound up and unwound. Malfunction or malfunction of the drive device when extending the cover, which would require intervention by the user or maintenance personnel are avoided. By using the compensation devices, an optimal interaction of the various components of the drive device takes place. So that a uniform extension of the cover can be ensured, preferably two or more outer traction elements and preferably also inner traction elements are provided, which are driven by the associated first or second spool shaft.

In preferred embodiments, the winding shaft is driven by a motor, which is preferably integrated in the winding shaft and thereby takes no further space and is also optimally protected.

The device space is preferably coverable by means of a lid, which is articulated on one or the other side or supported on the edge of the basin. For example, waves or hinges are used to rotatably support the lid. In this way, it is easily possible to intervene in the non-flooded device space to perform maintenance. It is also possible to open the lid and pull the cover to the other side and e.g. to lay down on a lawn to perform a material test or cleaning work.

The lid is mounted such that between the pool wall, which separates the device space from the pool, and the lid, the slot-like outlet opening is kept free, so that the cover can be transported through them unhindered.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one console, which serves to hold a support arm which is connected to the cover and stabilizes it, is fastened within the device space, on the outer wall opposite the pool wall.

Fig. 1

eine in einem Vorrichtungsraum 3 installierte erfindungsgemässe Antriebsvorrichtung 1, mittels der eine Abdeckung 10, die aus flexibel miteinander verbundenen Profilelementen 100 besteht, über eine Umlenkvorrichtung 14 in den Vorrichtungsraum 3 hinein gezogen oder aus diesem ausgestossen werden kann;

Fig. 2

die Antriebsvorrichtung 1 von Figur 1 mit geöffnetem Vorrichtungsraum 3;

Fig. 3

ein Blick von oben in den geöffneten Vorrichtungsraum 3;

Fig. 4a

die vorzugsweise ausgestaltete Antriebsvorrichtung 1 von Figur 1, bei der die Umlenkvorrichtung 14 mittels eines Lagerelements oder Gelenks 141 drehbar gelagert ist;

Fig. 4b

die Antriebsvorrichtung 1 von Figur 4a, nach dem Abwickeln der Abdeckung 10 von der Wickelwelle 11;

Fig. 5

eine Antriebsvorrichtung 1 in einer vorzugsweisen Ausgestaltung mit einer in die Wickelwelle 11 integrierten Antriebseinheit 110 und einer separaten Antriebseinheit 121, welche über eine Spulenwelle 1210 zwei Zugvorrichtungen 120, 130 antreibt;

Fig. 6

eine Antriebsvorrichtung 1, die nur eine Antriebseinheit 110 aufweist, deren Antriebswelle 1111 über eine erste Kopplungsvorrichtung 155, 156, 157 starr mit der Wickelwelle 11 und über eine zweite Kopplungsvorrichtung 151 mit einer Spulenwelle 1210 gekoppelt ist, welche Spulen 122 der ersten Zugvorrichtung 120 antreibt;

Fig. 7

die Antriebsvorrichtung 1 von Figur 6 in einer Gesamtschau;

Fig. 8a

die Antriebsvorrichtung 1 von Figur 4a mit beidseits der Abdeckung vorgesehenen Reinigungsvorrichtungen 9; und

Fig. 8b

die Antriebsvorrichtung 1 von Figur 8a, nach dem Abwickeln der Abdeckung 10 von der Wickelwelle 11.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to drawings. Showing:

Fig. 1

a drive device 1 according to the invention installed in a device space 3, by means of which a cover 10, which consists of profile elements 100 flexibly connected to one another, via a deflection device 14 in the Device chamber 3 can be pulled into or ejected from this;

Fig. 2

the drive device 1 of FIG. 1 with opened device space 3;

Fig. 3

a view from the top into the open device room 3;

Fig. 4a

the preferably configured drive device 1 of FIG. 1 in which the deflection device 14 is rotatably supported by means of a bearing element or joint 141;

Fig. 4b

the drive device 1 of FIG. 4a after unwinding the cover 10 from the winding shaft 11;

Fig. 5

a drive device 1 in a preferred embodiment with an integrated into the winding shaft 11 drive unit 110 and a separate drive unit 121 which drives two traction devices 120, 130 via a spool shaft 1210;

Fig. 6

a drive device 1, which has only one drive unit 110, whose drive shaft 1111 is rigidly coupled to the winding shaft 11 via a first coupling device 155, 156, 157 and to a spool shaft 1210 via a second coupling device 151, which drives spools 122 of the first traction device 120;

Fig. 7

the drive device 1 of FIG. 6 in an overall view;

Fig. 8a

the drive device 1 of FIG. 4a with cleaning devices 9 provided on both sides of the cover; and

Fig. 8b

the drive device 1 of FIG. 8a , After unwinding the cover 10 of the winding shaft eleventh

FIG. 1 shows a drive device 1 according to the invention, which serves to transport the cover 10 of a swimming pool 2. By means of the drive device 1, the flexible cover 10 can be pushed over the pool 2 and withdrawn from this again.

The drive device 1 is installed in a separate from the pool 2 device chamber 3, which is lockable by means of a lid 4. By separating from the pool 2, the device can be kept dry and protected from contamination and oxidation. Furthermore, maintenance work, in particular cleaning, on the drive device 1 can be carried out easily.

The drive device 1 comprises a drive unit 110 which has a winding shaft 11 which is coupled to a motor 111 and onto which the cover 10 is wound. For example, the winding shaft 11 is a conventional shaft, a mandrel, a spool or a drum.

The cover 10 is guided via a deflection device 14 to an outlet opening 35 of the device chamber 3, which is bounded by a basin wall 31 and the lid 4. At the winding shaft 11 facing the end of the cover 10 is connected to an outer tension member 12 and optionally an inner tension member 13. It is shown that the outer tension member 12, the cover 10 and the inner Tension element 13 is partially wound onto the winding shaft 11 and coupled thereto. Of central importance is the use of the outer tension element 12, which bears against the deflecting device 14 side facing away from the cover 10, and this presses under tension against the deflection device 14. Furthermore, the outer tension element 12 is guided via a discharge roller 125 serving for deflecting to a first pulling device 120, which winds the outer tension element 12 onto a spool 122 on the basis of a drive unit 121. The pulling device 120 thus makes it possible to tighten the outer tension element 12 and to set the winding shaft 11 in motion, so that not only the outer tension element 12 but also the flexible cover 10 is unwound from the winding shaft 11. The outlet roller 125 is provided in the region of the outlet opening 35, for which reason the cover 10 is guided in a controlled manner from the outer tension element 12 to the outlet opening 35 and can exit via an outlet ramp 38. The exit roller 125 is preferably at the end of the lid 4 or on a separate lever 129 (see FIG. 4a ) and can be held by this in an ideal position.

The deflection device 14 comprises two rotatably mounted deflection rollers 14A, 14B, around which an endless belt 149 is guided. The cover 10 is pressed by the outer tension member 12 against the guide rollers 14A, 14B of the deflection device 14 and guided by this. On the cover 10, therefore, forces act from different sides, from the front and from above through the outer tension element 12 and from below through the deflection device 14, which pull these hold and when extending to the outlet opening 35.

So that the force is applied by the outer tension element 12 and the deflecting device 14, the cover 10 is not guided on the shortest path to the outlet opening 35. The The deflection device 14 is therefore displaced outwards or curved outward in relation to this shortest path. Therefore, the cover 10 is pressed by the outer tension member 12 with a force against this shortest path until an equal force from the deflection device 14 acts on the cover 10 from the other side. The cover 10 is therefore precisely guided along a curved path.

On the outer pull element 12 opposite side of the cover 10, a connected to the winding shaft 11 inner tension element 13 is provided in this preferred embodiment, which is held by a second traction device 130 and can be tensioned by this. The second traction device 130 comprises at least one spool 132 driven by a drive unit 131, which serves to attract and wind up the associated inner traction element 13. The inner tension element 13 is guided by the winding shaft 11 via the deflection device 14 and a lower exit roller 135 to the second pulling device 130. The outlet roller 135 is also provided near the outlet opening 35, which is why the cover is guided precisely on both sides up to the outlet opening 35. The outer tension member 12 and the inner tension member 13 define a path which the flexible cover 10 must pass through, so that it can be easily pushed outwards without being able to escape upwards or downwards. It can be seen that the elements of the drive device 1 within the device space 3 occupy only little space, which is why much free space for receiving the cover 10 is present. Even with small dimensions of the device space 3, large covers 10 can therefore be accommodated and large liquid containers or swimming pools 2 can be covered.

In FIG. 1 is schematically shown that the drive devices 110, 121, 131 in a preferred Embodiment via a coupling device 150, for example, a differential gear 150 are coupled together. In this case, only one motor 111 is required, which drives the drive shafts of the first, second and third drive units 110, 120, 130. In this way, the aforementioned drive units 110, 120, 130 are mechanically coupled to one another. However, a rigid mechanical coupling of the drive units 110, 120, 130 is preferably avoided, so that different movement speeds can be compensated. For example, slip hubs or overrunning or overrunning clutches are used, as described below with reference to the device of FIG. 6 is described. Alternatively, mutually mechanically independent drive units 110, 120, 130 can be used which are synchronized with each other electronically by means of the control technology, as described below with reference to the device of FIG FIG. 5 is described.

The device space 3 can be covered by means of a cover 4 which, in the illustrated embodiment of the drive device 1, is held in an articulated manner on the side of mounting devices 41 facing the swimming pool 2. Like this in FIG. 2 is shown schematically, the lid 4 can therefore be opened from the land side to engage in the device space 3 and to maintain the device. Thus, the lid 4 is kept in the open position, a locking rod is provided. In this position of the lid 4, the cover 10 can be pulled out and serviced land.

For holding and adjusting the lid 4, a particularly simple device is provided. In FIG. 1 It is shown that within the device space 3, on the side opposite the pool wall 31 outer wall 33, a bracket 51 is attached. This bracket 51 serves to hold a support arm 5, which is connected to the lid 4 and front side by means of a mounting screw 511 is connected to the console. By turning the mounting screw 511, the support arm 5 can be further pulled down until it bears against a support lever 52, which is connected via a hinge 513 with the bracket 51. This support lever 52 can be rotated by means of an adjusting screw 512 which is rotatably supported by the bracket 51 in a thread. By turning the adjusting screw 512, the inclination of the support arm 5 and thus the cover 4 can be adjusted precisely.

The device space 3, which is bounded by the pool wall 31, outer walls 33 and the bottom 32, may be of any desired nature. In this case, wood walls or masonry walls can be provided. The winding shaft 11 is preferably stored centrally, while the first pulling device 120, and optionally provided second pulling device 130 are preferably arranged peripherally.

FIG. 3 shows a view from above into the opened device space 3, after removal of the cover. It can be seen that the winding shaft 11 completely passes through the device space 3 and the pulling device 120 and deflecting devices 14 take up only little space. The optionally provided second pulling device 130 is not shown. Furthermore, two consoles 51 are shown with support arms 5, which support the lid 4. The deflecting devices 14 and tension elements shown schematically symbolize that numerous different embodiments can be realized.

FIG. 4a shows the only provided with the first pulling device 120 drive device 1 of FIG. 1 in which the deflection device 14 is rotatably mounted. The deflection device 14 has an arm 140, which is rotatably held at a point, preferably approximately in the middle, by means of a bearing or joint 141. Along the arm 140 a plurality of rollers or wheels 14A, 14B, 14C, ... are arranged, which guide the cover 10 optimally. With the rolling up or unrolling of the cover 10, the diameter of the wound cover 10 changes steadily. Due to the rotatable mounting of the deflecting device 14, this can follow the diameter of the wound cover 10 with the front end piece, so that the cover 10 is always optimally guided and unwanted loads are avoided.

FIG. 4b shows the drive device 1 of FIG. 4a , After unwinding of the cover 10 of the winding shaft 11. In this state, the front end portion of the deflection device 14 abuts against the winding shaft 11. Due to the optimal guidance of the cover 10 with the advantageously configured deflecting device 14 and the stable configuration of the first pulling device 120, a second pulling device can be dispensed with in this embodiment.

FIG. 5 shows a drive device 1 in a further preferred embodiment, in which a first drive unit 110 is integrated into the configured as a hollow cylinder winding shaft 11 and this supports one side. The first drive unit 110 consists of an electric motor 111, which is connected via a gear 1112 and a drive shaft 1113 with a coupling disc 1114. The motor 111 is designed as an external rotor motor. The inner stator is held stationary with the associated stator shaft 1111. The outer rotor can rotate freely within the winding shaft 11 together with the gear 1112, for example a planetary gear, whose output shaft 1113 is connected to the coupling disc 1114. The coupling disc 1114 is keyed within the winding shaft 11 and therefore rigidly coupled thereto. To stabilize the winding shaft 11, this is the drive side also provided with a bearing 7 which rotates about the stator shaft 1111 and the winding shaft 11 holds. The winding shaft 11 is thus held on both sides by means of bearing elements 7, which is why the first drive unit 110 is relieved and only has to deliver the drive torque. The installation of the drive unit 110 in the winding shaft 11 is space-saving and extremely efficient. The winding shaft 11 can extend practically over the entire width of the device space 3, which is why it can have comparatively small dimensions. It is preferably provided that the first drive unit 110 can drive the winding shaft 11 in both directions and can wind the cover in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

Furthermore, in FIG. 5 show that in this preferred embodiment, two pulling devices 120, 130 are provided which have a common drive shaft or spool shaft 1210, which is connected via a coupling element 1211 with a second drive unit 121. Instead, each pulling device 120 or 130 may be associated with a separate spool shaft, which are driven by separate drive units or by a drive unit, for example via a differential gear. The second pulling device 130 may be dispensed with if the first pulling device 120 is sufficiently strong.

In FIG. 5 is further shown that the first and the second drive unit 110, 121 may be identical. For the first and / or the second drive unit 121, however, it is also possible to use conventional motors 111 which are stored externally. On the spool shaft 1210, two spools 122 of the first traction device 120 and two spools 132 of the second traction device 130 are provided. The two coils 122 of the first pulling device 120 serve to wind up external tension elements 12, preferably bands. The two Bobbins 132 of the second pulling device 130 serve to wind up internal tension elements 13, preferably straps. Like this in FIG. 5 is shown, the end pieces of the bands 12, 13 are secured by means of coupling pieces 128, 138 at the corresponding sides at the end of the cover 10. Particularly simply, the tension elements 12, 13 can also be coupled directly to the winding shaft 11. For example, the hollow cylindrical winding shaft 11 is provided with openings, in which the cover 10 and on both sides of the tension elements 12, 13 are mounted. It is also possible to drive each individual coil 122, 132 with a separate motor.

Symbolically, it is shown that at least the two coils 132 of the second pulling device 130 are connected via elastic elements 8, e.g. Spiral springs are coupled to the common drive shaft 1210. By the elastic elements 8 different conveying speeds of the tension elements 12, 13 are compensated and this tensioned evenly.

This structure of the drive device 1 is particularly advantageous because the winding shaft 11 and the drive shaft 1210 take up little space and the device space 3 is substantially available for receiving the cover 10.

Like this in FIG. 6 is shown, the drive device 1 according to the invention can advantageously also be provided with only one drive unit 110 or only one motor 111. The drive shaft 1111 of the motor 111 is rigidly coupled via a first coupling device consisting of a first gear 155, a toothed belt or a toothed chain 156, and a second gear 157 with the winding shaft 11 and drives them in both directions. On the other hand, the drive shaft 1111 is connected to the spool shaft 1210 via a second coupling device 151, which drives the coils 122 of the first pulling device 120. On the side opposite the second coupling device 151, the spool shaft 1210 is held by a third coupling device 152. The second and third coupling devices 151, 152 each comprise a first and a second freewheel 1511; 1521 and a first and second slip hub 1512, respectively; 1522. The freewheel 1511; 1521 allows the spool shaft 1210 and the slip hubs 1512; 1522 in one direction to turn freely, while the rotation is blocked in the other direction. The blocked slip hubs 1512; 1522 allow the spool shaft 1210 to rotate under a corresponding force or from a certain torque, so that during rotation of the spool shaft 1210 speed differences can be compensated for the winding shaft 11 or spool shaft 1210 can be rotated when the freewheel 1511 of the second coupling device 151, the free Rotation of the first slip hub 1512 prevents, so that the tension member 12 remains taut when winding the cover 10. By the first freewheel 1511 and the first slip hub 1512 thus the rigid coupling with the drive shaft 1111 and thus with the winding shaft 11 is released. When changing the diameter of the cover 10, therefore, the required adjustment of the rotational speed of the coil 122 and the spool shaft 1210 takes place at the speed at which the cover 10 is unwound from the winding shaft 11, by a slip realized by means of the first slip hub 1512.

When winding the cover 10 of the freewheel 1511 of the second coupling device 151 is deblocked, ie drive shaft 1111 and the spool shaft 1210 are decoupled from each other. On the other hand, the freewheel 1521 of the third coupling device 152 blocks the associated slip hub 1522, which is why the spool shaft 1210 can rotate only when the Winding shaft 11 pulls the cover 10 with a sufficiently high tensile force and set the second slip hub 1522 in motion. In this way, the (outer) tension elements 12 always remain taut.

When unwinding the cover 10, the freewheel 1511 of the second coupling device 151 is blocked, for which reason the drive shaft 1111 and the freewheel 1511 of the second coupling device 151 drive the first slip hub 1512. The drive shaft 1111 and the spool shaft 1210 are thus coupled together via the first slip hub 1512. The freewheel 1521 of the second coupling device 152, however, is deblocked, which is why the spool shaft 1210 is not obstructed by the second coupling device 152. With the rotation of the drive shaft 1111, the spools 122 are rotated and the (outer) tension members 12 are pulled and wound up. Since the cover 10 is not released by the winding shaft 11 at the required speed, a force on the slip hub 1512 of the second coupling device 151 results, so that a slip results, which causes a speed adjustment.

FIG. 7 shows the drive device 1 of FIG. 6 in an overall view. The roller deflecting device 14 and the pulling device 120 are shown separated from each other at the point indicated by a circle, but are superimposed during operation. The drive unit 110 provided for driving the winding shaft 11 and the spool shaft 1210 takes up only little space.

The in the FIGS. 6 and 7 shown embodiment of the drive device 1 is therefore particularly simple, inexpensive and space-saving feasible. Since all parts of the drive device 1, including the slip hubs, are only slightly stressed and available in high quality and load capacity on the market, also results in a drive device 1, which requires little maintenance.

In order to always ensure the hygiene and cleanliness of the entire system, preferably one or two cleaning devices 9 are integrated in the drive device 1, as shown in the FIGS. 8a and 8b is shown. The cleaning devices 9 have a drive motor 92, which drives a rotatably mounted brush 91 via a drive means, which acts on the underside or top of the cover 10, and this freed of dirt, which is collected locally and preferably disposed of via a drainage channel.

The provided on the underside of the cover 10 cleaning device 9 is coupled in this embodiment with the deflection device 14 and therefore always presses with the brush 91 to the cover 10.

The provided at the top of the cover 10 cleaning device 9 has a rotatably mounted lever 181 which is provided with a drive motor 92 and the brush 91, which is pressed by means of a drive means 94, for example a spring against the cover. The two FIGS. 8a and 8b show that the cleaning devices 9 regardless of the winding state of the cover 10 always optimally act on these. The cleaning devices 9 may further comprise nozzles for the water supply, which flush away the dirt.

Like this in the Figures 5 and 6 is shown, the existing drive units 110, 121 and 110 and preferably also the provided cleaning devices 9 are preferably connected to a control unit 1100, which the required operating functions, such as the synchronization of the optionally provided drive units 110, 121 and the operation of the cleaning devices implemented. Preferably, the control unit 1100 is provided with an operating program which may also perform additional functions and be configurable by the user. Preferably, it is provided that the temperature of the air and water and / or the light is measured by means of sensors 1101, 1102 and the drive device 1 is controlled such that the preferably serving as thermal insulation cover 10 is then fed or wound up when there is solar radiation and then extended when the outside temperature is lower than the water temperature and there is no sunshine.

This makes it possible to use solar energy optimally to heat the water of the swimming pool 2. At the same time it can be provided that the pool 2 is always covered when darkness falls, so that accidents are prevented. For this purpose, a timer 1103 can be provided, based on which the drive device 1 is controlled. Furthermore, a radio unit 1104 is preferably provided, which allows the user to operate the drive device 1 by means of a wireless remote control.

The inventive drive device 1 can be used for any liquid container to be covered temporarily for various reasons. Particularly advantageously, the inventive drive device 1 can also be used in the food industry and in the chemical industry to cover liquids during the manufacturing process and protect against external influences and expose to supply or remove material. The cover 10 can Here, as well as the drive mechanism to be adapted to the respective needs.

Claims (15)

1. Drive device (1) for a flexible cover (10) of a liquid container (2), particularly a swimming pool, which drive device (1) is installed or installable in a device compartment (3) that is arranged separate from the liquid container (2),
   comprising a cover (10), that can be moved over the and can again be retracted from the liquid container (2), with a winding shaft (11) that is interacting with the cover (10) and that is coupled to a first drive unit (110),
   wherein the winding shaft (11) serves for rolling-up the cover (10), that is guided over a deflection device (14) to an outlet opening (35) of the device compartment (3), and
   that is coupled at the end facing the winding shaft (11) with an outer tractive element (12), which is held and can be tensioned by a first traction device (120); characterised in that
   the outer tractive element (12) is resting on the side of the cover (10) that is averted from the deflection device (14), which outer tractive element (12) presses the cover (10) under tension against the deflection device (14).
2. Drive device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the deflection device (14) comprises a holding body (140), which preferably is rotatably supported and preferably is curve shaped, and which is provided with one or more deflection pulleys (14A, 14B, 14C, ...).
3. Drive device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the deflection device (14) is designed in such a way, that the cover (10) runs over a bent path to the outlet opening (35) of the device compartment (3).
4. Drive device (1) according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein, on the side of the cover (10) facing away from the outer tractive element (12) at least one inner tractive element (13) is provided that is coupled to the winding shaft (11) and that is held and can be tensioned by a second traction device (130).
5. Drive device (1) according to one of the claims 1-4, wherein the first traction device (120) comprises at least one first reel shaft (1210) that is driven by the first or a second drive unit (110, 121) and that is provided with a reel (122), which serves for rolling-up the outer tractive element (12).
6. Drive device (1) according to one of the claims 1-5, wherein the outer tractive element (12) are connected to the winding shaft (11) or with the end of the cover (10) that is facing the winding shaft (11).
7. Drive device (1) according to one of the claims 1-6, wherein the outer tractive element (12) is guided over an upper exit pulley (125) to the first traction device (120), which is located at the outlet opening (35) of the device compartment (3), through which the cover (10) is expelled towards the liquid container (2).
8. Drive device (1) according to one of the claims 1-7, wherein the outer tractive element (12) is made from plastic, textile material or metal and is embodied as rope or ribbon with a breadth preferably in the range of 1cm to 20cm.
9. Drive device (1) according to one of the claims 1-8, wherein the cover (10) comprises profile elements (100) that are flexibly connected with one another and that are aligned perpendicular to the direction of transport, which profile elements (100) are buoyant and/or are guided by a guide device along the edge of the liquid container (2).
10. Drive device (1) according to one of the claims 5-9 wherein the winding shaft (11) is fixedly coupled via a first coupling device (155, 156, 157) with the first drive unit (110) and that the at least one reel shaft (1210) is coupled with a second drive unit (120) or via a second coupling device (152), which comprises a compensating device (1511, 1512), with the first drive unit (110).
11. Drive device (1) according to claim 10, wherein the reel shaft (1210) is held on one side by the first coupling device (151) and on the other side by a second coupling device (152), which comprises a free-wheel each (1511 or 1521), which hold a sliding-hub each (1512 or 1522) and which block in a first and second direction of rotation, respectively, that are opposed to one another, wherein the sliding-hub (1512 or 1522) releases the reel shaft (1210) when a sufficiently high turning moment occurs.
12. Drive device (1) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the first drive unit (110) is integrated into the winding shaft (11).
13. Drive device (1) according to claim 10, 11 or 12, wherein the winding shaft (11) can be driven by the first drive unit (110) in both directions.
14. Drive device (1) according to one of the claims 1 - 13, wherein a cleaning device (9) is provided on the upper side and/or the lower side of the cover (10), which comprises a brush (91) that preferably is driven by a motor (92) and that abuts on corresponding side of the cover (10).
15. Drive device (1) according to one of the claims 1-14 wherein the first drive unit (110) and the provided tractive devices (120, 130) are controllable by a control unit (1100) depending on signals and data, which are derived from sensors (1101, 1102, 1103) or are stored in the control unit (1100) by the user.

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