EP2497876A2 - Device for covering a whirlpool - Google Patents

Abstract

The device has a base frame (4), whose upper edge extends to a hot tub top edge (2) during a capping operation, where multiple guide elements are operatively connected to the base frame. A cover element (3), is partially protruded into the base frame, where the cover element is guided in a control manner by the guide elements. The guide elements are laterally arranged according to a transport direction (16) of the cover element. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a lamella for a cover element for covering a hot tub; and (2) a cover element for covering a hot tub.

Description

The present invention relates to a device for covering a whirlpool according to the preamble of claim 1, a lamella, a cover and a use of the cover in the device.

Well-known whirlpools use covers, which are usually made up of several interconnected elements. These cover protect the existing water in the pool on the one hand from contamination caused by the falling in of leaves, needles and / or insects. On the other hand, jacuzzi covers serve to insulate the hot tub when not in use. This prevents the existing water from cooling down. Good insulation also has the advantage that the maintenance costs are lower because less energy is needed to heat and / or keep the water warm.

It is known to cover whirlpools when not in use with foldable covers, which consist of foil-covered polystyrene foam (eg Styrofoam). Such a foldable cover designed in this way usually consists of a plurality of insulating material filled with cover elements, which in turn must be positioned by the whirlpool user after the use of the whirlpool by hand over the whirlpool. This known solution is therefore troublesome and strenuous for whirlpool users, which is especially difficult for older and / or infirm people.

It was therefore in US 6,000,072 already proposed to provide manually operable mechanical aids for raising and lowering covers.

Further, in EP 2 028 333 A2 proposed to provide a whirlpool cover of at least two cover elements and a gear for pivoting the cover, wherein the transmission for pivoting the cover comprises an axis of rotation in the region of a Whirlpooloberseitenkante by which the cover can be pivoted into a rest position to an outer side wall of the whirlpool.

The required linkage, gear and drives are strong enough for lifting and pivoting the relatively heavy cover, so that a sufficient torsional stiffness can be achieved. This leads to the result that interfere with the Whirlpoolseitoberanteenkanke superior linkage and cover the aesthetic sensation of the user, because these known Faltabdeckungen are visible during the bathing operation beyond the upper limit and the linkage protrudes laterally from the pool wall. During the pivoting of the collapsed cover it also leads to grinding between the cover and the top of the spa. As a result, depending on the design of the whirlpool, scraping on a deep-drawn whirlpool top edge or a foil which covers the inside of the spa and also extends over the top of the spa.

Moreover, it is not possible in the known Whirlpool covers to ensure fully automatic operation, i. an operation in which no monitoring of the covering process by the user while maintaining the relevant safety regulations is required.

It is the object of the present invention to provide a device for covering a hot tub, which makes possible no manual intervention as possible and which is not disturbing storable for a user.

In the context of the present invention, a whirlpool is understood to mean any bathtub-like configuration of a water-absorbing element. This includes elements such as spas, bathtubs, Kneipp baths, swimming pools and the like.

In the following, the terms spa cover and cover are used interchangeably.

The object of the present invention is achieved by the features listed in the characterizing part of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention, a blade, a cover and a use are specified in further claims.

• einen Grundrahmen, dessen Oberkante zumindest während eines Abdeckvorgangs über eine Whirlpooloberseitenkante ragt,
• Führungselemente, die mit dem Grundrahmen wirkverbunden sind,
• ein Abdeckelement, das zumindest teilweise in den Grundrahmen hineinragt, wobei das Abdeckelement durch die Führungselemente kontrolliert führbar ist,
• eine Antriebseinheit, die auf ein in den Grundrahmen hineinragendes Teil des Abdeckelementes zur Verschiebung desselben wirkt, und
• eine Steuereinheit, die mit der Antriebseinheit wirkverbunden ist.

The present invention initially relates to a device for covering a whirlpool or the like. In this case, the device according to the invention comprises the following elements:

• a base frame, the upper edge of which protrudes above a whirlpool top edge at least during a covering operation,
• Guide elements operatively connected to the base frame,
• a cover element which projects at least partially into the base frame, wherein the cover element can be guided in a controlled manner by the guide elements,
• a drive unit acting on a projecting into the base frame part of the cover member for the displacement thereof, and
• a control unit operatively connected to the drive unit.

Thus, a device is specified, which allows for the first time a simple and efficient covering a hot tub or the like, wherein in the use of the whirlpool, the intrinsically heavy and bulky cover elements are easy to stow.

A further embodiment variant of the device according to the invention consists in that the guide elements are arranged laterally with respect to the transport direction of the cover element.

Further embodiments of the inventive device are that each guide element consists of three guide rails, wherein the cover between a first and a second guide rail is feasible and a third guide rail is arranged laterally in the transport direction of the cover, wherein the guide rails preferably have a round cross-section. To reduce sliding resistance between the guide rail and cover a lubricant can be used, which is applied for example on the guide rails. Furthermore, it is also conceivable to provide the guide rails and / or the parts of the cover element which come into contact with these with a lubricious coating.

Further embodiments of the inventive device are that the guide elements are constructed in a spiral.

In this way, a space predetermined by the base frame can be optimally utilized, whereby at the same time maximum stiffness of the cover element is taken into account.

Further embodiments of the device according to the invention consist in that the cover element has a film reeling unit with which a film can be spread at least over the top edge of the whirlpool bath before the cover is pushed over the spa top edge.

Further embodiments of the inventive device are that at the front end of the cover a mobile contact strip is arranged, which is operatively connected to the control unit.

Further embodiments of the inventive device are that in the region of the upper edge of the base frame, a fixed contact strip is arranged, which is operatively connected to the control unit.

Further embodiments of the device according to the invention are that the drive unit and the cover element which can be displaced by the latter are automatically decoupled by means of a mechanical decoupling element manually and / or after exceeding a predetermined load.

Further embodiments of the device according to the invention are that the base frame is lowered automatically when the whirlpool fully open, that the upper edge of the base frame and a cover of the base frame with the Whirlpooloberseitenkante or with surround elements of the spa flush.

Further embodiments of the inventive device are that several, on the Covering acting drive shafts are provided, which are operatively connected to the drive unit, wherein the drive shafts are preferably arranged spaced along the guide elements.

Thus, the force for moving the cover is distributed in the region of the guide elements, which in particular with a spiral formation of the guide elements an improved and distributed power transmission is achieved on the cover.

Further embodiments of the device according to the invention are that the fully equipped base frame (i.e., base frame and all components connected thereto) is so heavy that it is not displaced by the pull-in force of the drive unit. To increase the total weight of the base frame including its components, for example, it is proposed that the base frame has holders for weight units in order to increase the total weight to a required level.

• ein Rundprofil mit einer Längsachse und einem Steg;
• ein Passprofil, derart ausgestaltet, dass ein weiteres Rundprofil einer weiteren Lamelle im Wesentlichen formschlüssig im Passprofil aufnehmbar ist, und
• einen Schenkel, der zu einer aus der Längsachse und dem Steg gebildeten Fläche im Wesentlichen parallel verläuft und der derart ausgestaltet ist, dass das weitere Passprofil einer weiteren Lamelle zumindest teilweise überdeckt wird.

A further aspect relates to a lamella for a cover element for covering a whirlpool or the like, wherein a hollow profile is provided with a substantially flat support surface, wherein the hollow profile comprises:

• a round profile with a longitudinal axis and a web;
• a passport profile, designed such that a further round profile of another lamella is substantially positively received in the passport profile, and
• a leg which extends substantially parallel to a surface formed from the longitudinal axis and the web and which is designed such that the further passport profile of a further lamella is at least partially covered.

A variant of the inventive lamella is that at least one end cap is provided for closing and / or sealing the hollow profile.

The end cap allows, for example, a traction with the hollow profile, the end cap for this purpose, for example, a snap closure. The hollow profile has in this case a corresponding counterpart.

Further variants of the inventive lamella are that the hollow profile has a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first surface and the second surface form an angle, preferably an obtuse angle.

In a further embodiment variant, the hollow profile has a further structure. The hollow profile has a first and a second surface, wherein the first and the second surface are arranged obliquely to each other. The two obliquely arranged surfaces form an outward directed surface, while the opposite, ie downwardly facing surface forms the bearing surface of the hollow profile. For example, the first and the second surfaces extend differently far from the side edge of the hollow profile to the center of the hollow profile, so that they ultimately do not meet in the middle of the hollow profile. The surface and the slopes of the two mutually arranged surfaces are thus asymmetrical.

By means of the lamella according to the invention, it is possible to cleverly distribute a force distribution during the retraction and extension of a whirlpool cover onto the profile. As a result, the tensile forces are absorbed by the profile and distributed over the entire profile length.

In addition, the slope of the first and second surfaces allows the cover profile to be drained properly and the rainwater to be discharged laterally. The overlapping leg additionally prevents the water from flowing into the interior of the hollow profile.

In a further embodiment variant, the lamella also has a stabilizing tube in the interior of the hollow profile. This can improve the inherent stability. Furthermore, it is also conceivable to perform the hollow profile cambered, with which rainwater can be dissipated even faster and better laterally over the end caps. A crown is particularly advantageous if, for example, a layer of snow is on the cover. So even with a considerable snow load, which reduces the crowning, ensures that no backwater, in particular no pool of water can form. In a further embodiment, the lamella has at least one sealing ring between the hollow profile and the end cap. For example, the lamella is oriented so that the above-mentioned stabilization tubes can be retrofitted.

In a further embodiment, the end cap has a groove for applying adhesive. Alternatively, the end cap can be connected to the hollow profile via a detachable connection, for example by means of screws. This also individual end caps can be replaced, which can not be accomplished easily in an adhesive bond.

In a further embodiment, the end cap has guide edges for a flat gasket.

In yet another embodiment, the hollow profile is integrally formed.

In a further embodiment, the end cap is designed in two parts, that is, the end cap consists in this embodiment substantially of a cap and an end cap, which is separately removable.

In one embodiment, the end cap also has a passage for a sensor cable. It is also in one another embodiment provided to feed a steel cable, a rubber cord or a copper strand in the implementation in order to increase the lateral stability of the cover. A copper strand - or another good electrically conductive material - has the advantage that electrostatic charges that may arise when covering the pool by friction between the cover and the upper edge of the pool, can be derived.

Yet another aspect of the present invention relates to a cover member for covering a whirlpool or the like. The cover member comprises a plurality of lamellae, wherein in each case a round profile of a lamella is receivable in a fitting profile of an adjacent lamella.

A variant of the inventive cover element is that in each case a leg of a lamella substantially or at least partially overlaps a fitting profile of an adjacent lamella.

Further embodiments of the cover element according to the invention are that individual lamellae are mutually rotatable so that a convex angle between a support surface of a first lamella and a support surface of a second lamella, which is adjacent with respect to the first lamella, a maximum of 30 degrees, preferably a maximum of 20 Degree, more preferably at most 10 degrees, and that a concave angle between a support surface of a first fin and a support surface a second blade adjacent to the first blade is at most 60 degrees, preferably at most 50 degrees, more preferably at most 40 degrees. Finally, a use of a cover in an inventive device is specified.

It is expressly understood that the above-mentioned embodiments are arbitrarily combinable. Only those combinations of variants are excluded, which would otherwise lead to contradictions.

Fig. 1

einen Whirlpool mit einer erfindungsgemässen Abdeckvorrichtung in perspektivischer Darstellung, wobei ein Abdeckelement einen Teil eines Beckens abdeckt,

Fig. 2

den Whirlpool mit der erfindungsgemässen Abdeckvorrichtung gemäss Fig. 1, wobei das Abdeckelement vollständig in einen Grundrahmen zurückgezogen ist,

Fig. 3

eine Seitenansicht des Grundrahmens mit eingebauten Elementen der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung,

Fig. 4

eine perspektivische Darstellung von seitlich angeordneten Führungselementen aus je drei Führungsschienen mit einem Abdeckelement aus Lamellen, wobei der Grundrahmen und weitere Elemente der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung nicht dargestellt sind,

Fig. 5

eine perspektivische Darstellung des Grundrahmens mit Elementen der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung,

Fig. 6

eine perspektivisch Darstellung eines oberen Bereichs des Grundrahmens mit Deckelement aus Lamellen, wobei das Deckelement vollständig eingezogen ist,

Fig. 7

die perspektivische Darstellung gemäss Fig. 6 mit teilweise ausgefahrenem Deckelement,

Fig. 8

eine perspektivisch Darstellung einer Endkappe für eine Lamelle des Deckelementes,

Fig. 9

eine perspektivische Darstellung einer weiteren Ausführungsvariante des Grundrahmens mit Elementen der erfindungsgemässen Vorrichtung,

Fig. 10

eine perspektivische Darstellung einer Ausführungsvarianten für eine erfindungsgemässe Lamelle mit Endkappe,

Fig. 11

einen Schnitt durch zwei miteinander gekoppelte erfindungsgemässe Lamellen und

Fig. 12

eine Schnitt gemäss Fig. 10 durch die Lamellen, die zueinander geneigt sind.

The present invention will be explained in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments, which are illustrated in FIGS. Showing:

Fig. 1

a whirlpool with a covering device according to the invention in a perspective view, wherein a covering element covers a part of a basin,

Fig. 2

the whirlpool with the covering device according to the invention Fig. 1 wherein the cover element is completely retracted into a base frame,

Fig. 3

a side view of the base frame with built-in elements of the inventive device,

Fig. 4

a perspective view of laterally arranged guide elements of three guide rails with a cover of lamellas, wherein the base frame and other elements of the inventive device are not shown,

Fig. 5

a perspective view of the base frame with elements of the inventive device,

Fig. 6

a perspective view of an upper portion of the base frame with cover element of lamellae, wherein the cover element is completely retracted,

Fig. 7

the perspective view according to Fig. 6 with partially extended cover element,

Fig. 8

a perspective view of an end cap for a lamella of the cover element,

Fig. 9

a perspective view of another embodiment of the base frame with elements of the inventive device,

Fig. 10

a perspective view of a variant for an inventive lamella with end cap,

Fig. 11

a section through two coupled inventive slats and

Fig. 12

a section according to Fig. 10 through the slats, which are inclined to each other.

In Fig. 1 a whirlpool 1 is shown with a basin 6, which is bounded by a substantially horizontally extending Whirlpooloberseitenkante 2. A cover element 3 can be pushed over the whirlpool top edge 2 in the transport direction 16 for completely covering or releasing the pelvis 6.

In Fig. 2 the basin 6 is fully released by the cover 3 is shown withdrawn into a base frame 4.

In a further embodiment of the covering device according to the invention, it is provided that, when the basin 6 is completely open, the base frame 4 can be lowered so far (in FIG Fig. 2 not shown) that an upper edge or an upper cover of the base frame 4 with a skirting element 5 of the whirlpool 1 is flush with the surface. Thus, the entire cover device for the user can not be stowed apparent, which in particular also has the advantage that the view of the whirlpool users in any way is restricted, regardless of where the spa user is in the pool 6.

Fig. 3 shows in a side view of the base frame 4, wherein the view is released into the interior, so that a still to be explained in detail spiral guide member 12, a drive unit 7, which drives a drive shaft 8 with gear 9, a mechanical decoupling element 18, a portion of Covering element 3 and a control unit 17 can be seen. When in Fig. 3 shown base frame 4 is a modular structure that can be structurally easily adapted to whirlpools of different design and by different manufacturers. It is also conceivable, for example, a reduced design in which the base frame may consist of a single, firmly connected to the whirlpool frame, in which case the various components mentioned above are attached only to this one frame.

In Fig. 3 the whirlpool top edge 2 is indicated by a broken line. The height of the Whirlpooloberseitenkante 2 must match in the region of the outlet of the cover with the guide member 12 such that the cover 3 can be pushed as possible without height offset on the Whirlpooloberseitenkante 2 when the cover 3 is moved to cover in the transport direction 16. Any necessary height adjustment can be achieved by the use of feet 11 with different dimensions and by fine adjustment of screw feet below the Stand 11 can be provided, be accomplished.

Fig. 4 shows the guide elements 12 and a portion of the cover 3 isolated in a perspective view to further illustrate the structure and operation of the inventive device. The indispensable for the transport of the cover element 3 drive unit 7 and gears 9 are deliberately not shown here for a better overview.

The with the base frame 4 ( Fig. 3 ) connected via fasteners 21 spiral guide elements 12 support the cover 3 in the transport direction 16 seen from the side. For this purpose, three guide rails 13, 14 and 15 are provided which the freedom of movement of the cover 3 in the region of the base frame 4 (FIGS. Fig. 3 ) defines, so that only the one-dimensional movement possibility remains here only the cover 3. In the region of an outlet opening, in which the cover element 3 leaves the base frame 4 and from then on the whirlpool top edge edge 2 (FIG. Fig. 1 and 2 ), a first guide rail 13 below the cover 3, a second guide rail 14 above the cover 3 and a third guide rail 15 seen in the transport direction 16 of the cover 3 are arranged laterally. The guide rails 13, 14 and 15 have, for example, a round cross-section. In order to the frictional resistance between cover 3 and guide rails 13, 14 and 15 is reduced to a minimum.

In principle, any desired shape for the guide elements 12 can be provided. A helical guide element 12, as shown in the illustrated embodiment of the invention, has proven to be advantageous when a space-saving variant is preferred. In this case, spiral shapes with a rectangular basic shape may also be particularly suitable, since in this way the available space, which results from a base frame having a cross section corresponding to a raised rectangle, can be optimally utilized.

Out Fig. 4 It can also be seen that the cover element 3 consists of lamellae, which - viewed in the transport direction 16 - extend transversely and have the lateral end caps 24, which will be explained further below. By the fins, the cover 3 can be made flexible, so that insertion into the spiral guide member 12 can be carried out with reduced frictional resistance. Due to the structure of the cover 3 with lamellae increased strength is obtained perpendicular to the transport plane at the same time.

Fig. 5 shows the base frame 4 with the elements contained therein again in a perspective view. In particular, both a mobile contact strip 20 and a fixed contact strip 19 can be seen here. While the mobile contact lead 20 is arranged at the front end of the cover 3 and therefore moves with the cover 3, the fixed contact strip 19 is arranged on the base frame 4 above a feed opening for the cover element 3. Both the mobile and the fixed contact strip 20 and 19 are safety elements for the prevention of accidents and for machine protection (device protection) in an automatic operation of the inventive device. For this purpose, the contact strips 19, 20 are operatively connected to the control unit 17, so that when a triggering or response of the contact strips 19, 20, the drive unit 7 stopped immediately or the movement of the cover 3 can be reversed by reversing the direction of rotation.

The operation of the contact strips 19, 20 is characterized by the Fig. 6 and 7 further clarified, with the same reference numerals have been used in these drawings for easy identification.

Next, especially in Fig. 7 , a film reel unit 22 recognizable, the front side on the cover 3, but seen in the transport direction 16, is arranged in front of the mobile contact strip 20. The film take-up unit 22 occupies the Whirlpooloberseitenkante 2 ( Fig. 1 or 2 ) with a film, which consists for example of a polymer before the cover 3 can touch the Whirlpooloberseitenkante 2. Thus, the cover 3 is moved in the sequence on the spread film, which no scratches or other injuries the Whirlpooloberseitekante 2 may arise. In addition, the film provides an even better seal between the Whirlpooloberseitenkante 2 ( Fig. 1 or 2 ) and the cover 3.

It has been shown that the film is also a high-quality, glass-fiber reinforced PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) excellently suitable, which is also known under the trade name TEFLON. It is important that the film is inherently stable, durable and at the same time sealing.

The film winding unit 22 comprises a roller 23 on which the film is completely rolled up when the cover element 3 in the base frame 4 for releasing the pelvis 6 (FIG. Fig. 2 ) is recorded. On the roller 23 acts, for example, a preloaded coil spring (in Fig. 7 not shown), so that the film in each phase of a Abdeckvorganges without wrinkles spread or can be retracted again.

Finally, in Fig. 8 an end cap 24 shown, which - seen in the transport direction 16 of the cover 3 - arranged laterally and inserted into a cavity of the cover member 3 forming lamellae and is firmly connected thereto. On the in Fig. 8 shown underside of the end cap 24 recesses 25 can be seen, which are arranged at a regular interval, with the recesses 25 of adjacent end caps 24 are aligned with each other, so that the teeth on the drive shaft 8 arranged gears 9 ( Fig. 3 or 5 ) can engage in the recesses 25. The drive unit 7 is thus operatively connected via the drive shaft 8, the gears 9 and the end caps 24 with the cover 3. Accordingly, the cover element 3 can be moved in one direction or the other depending on the direction of rotation of the drive unit 7.

As a further security element is in a further embodiment of the present invention, a decoupling element 18 (in Fig. 3 or 5 apparent), by means of which the operative connection between the drive unit 7 and the cover 3 can be mechanically interrupted. The decoupling element 18 is usually led out of the base frame 4, so that a user of the whirlpool in an emergency can interrupt the drive train.

Based on Fig. 9 a further embodiment of the device according to the invention is explained. Fig. 9 shows a perspective view - similar to Fig. 5 - The base frame 4 with the drive 7, which is however now arranged differently. Furthermore, this embodiment is characterized in particular by the fact that instead of a single drive shaft 8, two further drive shafts 8 'and 8 "are arranged along the guide element 12. All drive shafts 8, 8' and 8" are connected to the drive unit 7 and correspondingly Gear wheels 9 provided, the teeth in the end caps 24 (in Fig. 9 not visible) of the cover 3 engage. It is self-evident that the teeth of the gears 9, which are mounted on the other drive shafts 8 'and 8 "engage only in end caps 24 when the cover 3 is retracted so far into the base frame 4 that the end caps 24 of the Gears can be detected at all.

With the several drive shafts 8, 8 'and 8 "arranged along the guide element 12, the cover element 3 is drawn in uniformly into the base frame 4 and the increased resistance forces caused by the bending of the guide element 12 (spiral shape) are easily overcome.

At the in Fig. 9 In addition, the mechanical decoupling element 18 is configured in such a way that the mechanical decoupling element 18 automatically triggers when a predefined drive torque is exceeded. Thus, the drive unit 7 is decoupled from the drive shafts 8, 8 'and 8 ", if an object is clamped by the cover 3 and the fixed or the mobile contact strips 19 and 20 ( Fig. 6 ) does not trigger. The mechanical decoupling element 18 is realized, for example, with a toggle construction, wherein the angle of the load lever can be adjusted by means of a set screw. This allows a mechanical load limitation with automatic decoupling when reaching or exceeding the predefined maximum force.

But the mechanical decoupling element 18 can also by actuation of an unlocking lever (see Fig. 9 ) are triggered, whereby the drive unit 7 is moved. As a result, a toothed belt falls out of the engagement firmly connected to the drive unit 7 and the drive unit 7 continues to rotate without load.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the base frame 4 has a holder 70 (FIG. Fig. 9 ), which can accommodate weight units to increase the total weight of the base frame 4. In order for the base frame 4 and thus the overall system is given a stability that is particularly important for a high snow load on the cover 3 of importance. Thus, it may happen at a low weight of the base frame 4 and when pulling the cover 4 that the position of the base frame 4 shifts, by the tensile force of the drive unit 7 itself. Although this can be counteracted by the base frame 4 fixed anchored in the ground. But this is not possible in all applications. Thus, when setting up a pool with the invention Abdeckvorrichung on a balcony, the base frame in the ground can not be anchored. For such applications, the loading of the holder 70 is provided with weight units, wherein so many weight units are provided that the maximum, generated by the drive unit retraction force of the cover does not lead to a displacement of the base frame 4.

Fig. 10 1 shows an exploded view of a lateral end piece of a lamella 50 according to the invention. The lamella 50 in this example consists of a hollow profile 51, an end cap 24, as well as a seal 60 and a sealing ring 61, which in the assembled state, the hollow spaces of the hollow profile 51 with respect to the end cap 24 seal. The hollow profile 51 has a number of special structures. Thus, a round profile 53 extends along the entire longitudinal axis of the hollow profile 51. On the opposite longitudinal axis of the hollow profile 51, a fitting profile 54 is formed. The hollow profile 51 also has a substantially flat support surface 52 and opposite the support surface 52 two obliquely arranged surfaces, wherein a first surface 58 from the fitting profile 54 extends obliquely to the center and then merges into a second surface 59, which at a different angle to Support surface 52 extends as the first surface 58. The round profile 53 is connected via a web 57 with the rest of the hollow profile. The round profile 53 defines in its interior itself a cavity in which optionally a stabilizing tube can be installed. The hollow profile is produced for example by an extrusion process. In the interior of the hollow profile 51 strips 62 may be formed. These strips 62 are adapted to hold a flat profile in the hollow profile in position. Such a flat profile may extend over the entire length of the hollow profile and may be made of aluminum, for example. The flat profile serves to increase stability and strength.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the cover 3 is designed cambered, so that water can drain laterally, especially on the end caps 24. A crowning of the cover 3 can be further reinforced or strengthened by the above-mentioned flat profile also has a crown.

The seal ring 61 and the seal 60 are made of an elastic material such as rubber.

In the FIGS. 11 and 12 a partial section of a cover member 3 according to the invention is shown, wherein a section transverse to two mutually coupled hollow sections 51 and 51 'are shown, as already described with reference to Fig. 10 have been explained. Accordingly, in the FIGS. 11 and 12 the flags used for the corresponding components in Fig. 10 have been introduced, wherein the hatched in the sectional area shown hollow profile 51 and not hatched in the cut surface hollow profile 51 'are constructed identically. The in the FIGS. 11 and 12 shown and coupled together hollow sections 51 and 51 'are thereby rotated about the longitudinal axis of the round profile 53' and the fitting profile 54 against each other.

The first hollow profile 51 is on the one hand from the round profile 53 and a leg 55 which is parallel to a surface formed from the longitudinal axis of the round profile 53 and the web 57. On the opposite side, the hollow profile 51, as already based on Fig. 10 has been explained, the fitting profile 54 on. A lower portion of the fitting profile 54 is formed in the present example on one side as an extension of the substantially flat support surface 52. An upper portion of the fitting profile 54 is formed from an extension of the first inclined surface 58. The first inclined surface 58 leads approximately to the middle of the hollow profile 51 and is there in the second inclined surface 59 on.

In the in the 10 to 12 In the embodiment of the invention shown, the thickness of the hollow profile 51, 51 'is greater at the end provided with the round profile 53, 53' than at the end provided with the fitting profile 54, 54 '.

The passport 54, 54 'are dimensioned so that they can take a round profile 53, 53' and the hollow sections 51, 51 'in the manner mentioned can rotate against each other. The leg 55 'of the second hollow profile 51' is arranged so that it can slide over the fitting profile 54 of the first hollow profile 51. The web 57 'and the leg 55' of the second hollow profile 51 'allow a rotational movement about an angle α about the longitudinal axis of the round profile 54, wherein the angle α is defined with respect to the support surface 52 of the first hollow profile 51 ( Fig. 11 ) and thus describes a convex shape of the cover. Therefore, the angle α is also referred to as a convex angle α. According to Fig. 11 includes the support surface 52 'with respect to the support surface 52 a convex angle α of 10 degrees. This maximum convex angle α is by the stop of the one end of the Passport profile 54 on the web 57 'predetermined or adjustable by their position.

In contrast, shows Fig. 12 the other extreme for the rotational movement about the same axis by now the other end of the fitting profile 54 on the other side of the web 57 'is present. For example, here is a maximum angle β 40 degrees. This maximum angle β has now, as is self-evident from the in the Fig. 3 . 4 and 5 shown construction, direct influence on the maximum radius of curvature for the guide member 12 and the guide rails 13, 14 and 15. The angle β is hereinafter also referred to as a concave angle β, since it describes the concave configuration of the cover.

The inventive cover 3 ( Fig. 1 ) consists of a plurality of interconnected hollow sections 51, 51 '. Thus, according to the desired length for the cover 3 ( Fig. 1 ) correspondingly many hollow profiles to connect with each other.

Due to the advantageous embodiment of the legs 55, for example, rainwater is discharged and deflected over the two inclined surfaces 58, 59 and 58 ', 59' existing gutters clean from the interior of the hollow profile laterally beyond the end caps 24. Accordingly, the two inclined surfaces 58, 59 and 58 ', 59' continue in the end cap 24, as shown Fig. 10 is apparent. Of course, here again a crowning of the profiles is conceivable, so that rainwater can flow off the side well.

In order to further stabilize the cover element 3, it is provided in a further embodiment of the invention to pull a cable pull, for example a rubber rope, a steel cable or a copper strand, through the end caps 24. Thus, the lateral stability of the cover 3 is further enhanced and a lateral displacement is successfully prevented. A copper strand - or another good electrically conductive material - has the advantage that electrostatic charges, which may arise, for example, when covering the pool by friction between the cover and the upper edge of the pool, can be derived.

The inventive device for covering a hot tub or the like allows for the first time a fully automatic operation of the cover. Due to the structure and the intended safety elements, the relevant safety regulations for fully automatic operation are met. Thus, periodic aeration of the whirlpool water can be carried out automatically without danger to humans and animals, i. be programmed in the control unit 17.

Finally, in a further embodiment of the present invention, the possibility is provided for the device according to the invention with a remote control Taxes. In this case 17 corresponding receiving and transmitting systems are provided in the control unit.

Claims (16)

Device for covering a whirlpool (1) or the like, characterized in that the device comprises the following elements: - A base frame (4), the upper edge, at least during a covering over a Whirlpooloberseitenkante (2) protrudes; - guide elements (12, 13, 14, 15) operatively connected to the base frame (4); a cover element (3) which projects at least partially into the base frame (4), wherein the cover element (3) can be guided in a controlled manner by the guide elements (12; 13, 14, 15); - A drive unit (7) which acts on a in the base frame (4) protruding part of the cover member (3) for displacement thereof, and - A control unit (17) which is operatively connected to the drive unit (7). Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the guide elements (12; 13, 14, 15) with respect to the transport direction (16) of the cover (3) are arranged laterally. Apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that each guide element (12) consists of three guide rails (13, 14, 15), wherein the cover (3) between a first and a second guide rail (13, 14) can be guided and a third guide rail (15) in the transport direction (16) of the cover (3) is arranged laterally, wherein the guide rails (13, 14, 15) preferably have a round cross-section. Device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the guide elements (12; 13, 14, 15) are constructed spirally. Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the cover (3) comprises a film reel unit (22) with which a film at least over the Whirlpooloberseitenkante (2) is spreadable before the cover (3) on the Whirlpooloberseitenkante (2 ) is pushed. Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that at the front end of the cover (3) a mobile contact strip (20) is arranged, which is operatively connected to the control unit (17). Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the drive unit (7) and the sliding of this cover (3) by means of a mechanical Entkoppelungselementes (18) are automatically decoupled manually and / or after exceeding a predetermined load. Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the base frame (4) is fully lowered automatically when the whirlpool (1) is fully open, that the upper edge of the base frame (4) or a cover of the base frame (4) with the Whirlpooloberseitenkante (2) or flush with enclosure elements of the whirlpool (1). Device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that several, on the cover (3) acting drive shafts (8, 8 ', 8 ") are provided, which are operatively connected to the drive unit (7), wherein the drive shafts (8 , 8 ', 8 ") preferably spaced along the guide elements (12; 13, 14, 15) are arranged. Slat (50) for a cover element (3) for covering a whirlpool (1) or the like, characterized by a hollow profile (51) with a substantially flat support surface (52), the hollow profile comprising: - A round profile (53) having a longitudinal axis and a web (57); - A passport profile (54), designed such that a further round profile (53 ') of another lamella (50') is substantially form-fitting manner in the fitting profile (54) can be accommodated, and a limb (55) which runs essentially parallel to a surface formed from the longitudinal axis and the web (57) and which is configured in such a way, the further pass profile (54 ") of a further lamella (50") is at least partially covered. Slat (50) according to claim 10, characterized in that at least one end cap (24) for closing and / or sealing of the hollow profile (51) is provided. A blade (50) according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the hollow profile (51) has a first surface (58) and a second surface (59), the first surface (58) and the second surface (59) forming an angle , preferably an obtuse angle. Cover element (3) for covering a whirlpool (1) or the like, comprising a plurality of lamellae (50) according to one of claims 10 to 12, wherein in each case a round profile (53) of a lamella (50) in a fitting profile (54 ') adjacent lamella (50 ') is receivable. Covering element (3) according to claim 13, characterized in that in each case one leg (55) of a lamella (50) substantially or at least partially overlaps a fitting profile (54 ") of an adjacent lamella (50"). Cover element (3) according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that individual lamellae (50, 50 ') are rotatable relative to one another such that a convex angle (α) between a support surface (52) of a first lamella (50) and a support surface ( 52 ') of a second lamella (50 ') adjacent to the first fin (50) is at most 30 degrees, preferably at most 20 degrees, more preferably at most 10 degrees, and that a concave angle (β) between a bearing surface (52) of a first A blade (50) and a bearing surface (52 ') of a second blade (50') adjacent to the first blade (50) is at most 60 degrees, preferably at most 50 degrees, more preferably at most 40 degrees. Use of a cover element (3) according to one of Claims 13 to 15 in a device according to one of Claims 1 to 9.

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