EP3077606B1 - Inflatable pool - Google Patents

Inflatable pool Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3077606B1
EP3077606B1 EP14824211.8A EP14824211A EP3077606B1 EP 3077606 B1 EP3077606 B1 EP 3077606B1 EP 14824211 A EP14824211 A EP 14824211A EP 3077606 B1 EP3077606 B1 EP 3077606B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
wall
layer
side wall
spa
pool
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP14824211.8A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3077606A1 (en
Inventor
Yaw Yuan Hsu
Hua Hsiang Lin
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Intex Recreation Corp
Original Assignee
Intex Recreation Corp
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=53274184&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=EP3077606(B1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Priority claimed from CN201320796506.9U external-priority patent/CN203583938U/zh
Priority claimed from CN201320888639.9U external-priority patent/CN203640339U/zh
Priority claimed from CN201320892855.0U external-priority patent/CN203640334U/zh
Priority claimed from CN201320888403.5U external-priority patent/CN203634453U/zh
Priority claimed from CN201420023673.4U external-priority patent/CN203684742U/zh
Priority claimed from CN201420050705.XU external-priority patent/CN203687330U/zh
Priority claimed from CN201420375437.9U external-priority patent/CN203924786U/zh
Priority to PL14824211T priority Critical patent/PL3077606T3/pl
Priority to EP22160581.9A priority patent/EP4047159A3/en
Priority to EP19168260.8A priority patent/EP3572600B1/en
Application filed by Intex Recreation Corp filed Critical Intex Recreation Corp
Publication of EP3077606A1 publication Critical patent/EP3077606A1/en
Publication of EP3077606B1 publication Critical patent/EP3077606B1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H4/00—Swimming or splash baths or pools
    • E04H4/0018—Easily movable or transportable swimming pools
    • E04H4/0025—Easily movable or transportable swimming pools with inflatable parts
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/02—Bathing devices for use with gas-containing liquid, or liquid in which gas is led or generated, e.g. carbon dioxide baths
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/14—Devices for gas baths with ozone, hydrogen, or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/60—Components specifically designed for the therapeutic baths of groups A61H33/00
    • A61H33/6005—Special constructive structural details of the bathtub, e.g. of the walls or supporting structure
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/60—Components specifically designed for the therapeutic baths of groups A61H33/00
    • A61H33/601—Inlet to the bath
    • A61H33/6021—Nozzles
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/60—Components specifically designed for the therapeutic baths of groups A61H33/00
    • A61H33/601—Inlet to the bath
    • A61H33/6021—Nozzles
    • A61H33/6026—Nozzles in the bathtub connected to an outside pump circuit without modification of the walls
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/60—Components specifically designed for the therapeutic baths of groups A61H33/00
    • A61H33/6068—Outlet from the bath
    • A61H33/6073—Intake mouths for recirculation of fluid in whirlpool baths
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/01—Constructive details
    • A61H2201/0103—Constructive details inflatable
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/02—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes heated or cooled
    • A61H2201/0221—Mechanism for heating or cooling
    • A61H2201/0242—Mechanism for heating or cooling by a fluid circulating in the apparatus
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/50—Control means thereof
    • A61H2201/5023—Interfaces to the user
    • A61H2201/5035—Several programs selectable
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/50—Control means thereof
    • A61H2201/5058—Sensors or detectors
    • A61H2201/5082—Temperature sensors

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an inflatable pool.
  • the present disclosure relates to an inflatable pool or spa. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to an inflatable pool or spa having improved strength, and to a method for using the same.
  • the inflatable pool is convenient to carry and consumers love it.
  • Known inflatable pools are commonly made from a PVC air chamber. Because of good flexibility and low rigidity of PVC cloth, the strength of the pool is often not enough, the shape can be easily changed after inflating, bumps can be present under low pressure, and the comfort of the product is affected.
  • Inflatable pools or spas are generally constructed of material having high flexibility and low rigidity. Although such inflatable spas are generally more affordable than permanent spas, inflatable spas generally lack the strength, comfort, clean appearance, and useful life of permanent spas. Also, inflatable spas may be difficult to assemble, dissemble, store, and transport.
  • US 5 924 144A discloses an inflatable swimming pool with a vertical inner wall and a vertical outer wall with a plurality of vertical webs arranged in an array manner extending between and connecting the inner and outer vertical side walls of the pool.
  • US 6 571 405 B1 discloses a reinforced swimming pool including a flexible continuous side wall and where a continuous reinforcing layer is bonded to the continuous sidewall.
  • the continuous reinforcing layer is a separate layer of laminated crossed fibers or mesh.
  • the present disclosure relates to an inflatable pool having improved strength.
  • a water cavity of the inflatable pool may receive massaging air bubbles and/or jetted water so as to create a spa pool.
  • an inflatable product including a porous sheet coupled to a wall of the inflatable product.
  • an inflatable product including a porous sheet coupled to a wall of the inflatable product via an attachment sheet.
  • an inflatable product including a porous tensioning structure in an air chamber of the inflatable product.
  • an inflatable product including a first wall, a second wall, an inflatable air chamber defined by the first wall and the second wall, and a plurality of tensioning structures located in the air chamber and coupled to the first wall and the second wall.
  • Each tensioning structure includes at least one attachment sheet having an outer perimeter and a porous sheet coupled to the at least one attachment sheet, the porous sheet including a plurality of enclosed pores located entirely within the outer perimeter of the at least one attachment sheet.
  • the porous sheet includes a plurality of frame members that intersect to define the plurality of enclosed pores.
  • the plurality of frame members of the porous sheet are interwoven.
  • the plurality of frame members of the porous sheet are arranged in a grid pattern.
  • the porous sheet includes a plurality of open spa 5 that are partially surrounded by the frame members.
  • the at least one attachment sheet has a lower melting point than the porous sheet.
  • the at least one attachment sheet, the first wall, and the second wall have similar melting points.
  • the porous sheet includes a second plurality of enclosed pores located beyond the outer perimeter of the at least one attachment sheet.
  • the porous sheet has an outer perimeter that substantially overlaps the outer perimeter of the at least one attachment sheet.
  • the product is a spa. In other embodiments, the product is a mattress. In other embodiments, the product is a pool.
  • the first wall is an internal wall of the pool or spa
  • the second wall is an external wall of the pool or spa
  • the pool or spa further including a bottom wall that cooperates with the internal wall to define a water cavity.
  • an inflatable product including a first wall, a second wall, an inflatable air chamber defined by the first wall and the second wall, and a plurality of tensioning structures located in the air chamber.
  • Each tensioning structure is coupled to the first wall along a first seam that extends along a first line and to the second wall along a second seam that extends along a second line.
  • Each tensioning structure includes a porous sheet with a plurality of pores, wherein any line parallel to the first line intersects the plurality of pores in the porous sheet.
  • the porous sheet includes a plurality of frame members that cooperate to define the plurality of pores, wherein the plurality of frame members are oriented transverse to the first line. In certain embodiments, the plurality of frame members are oriented transverse to a third line that is perpendicular to the first line. In certain embodiments, the first line is parallel to the second line.
  • the invention in a first aspect provides an inflatable pool comprising:
  • top, bottom and side and other terms used to describe relative positions of components of pools or spas according to the invention refer to the pool or spa in its upright inflated position and defining a water cavity (as shown in , for example, FIG. 3 ).
  • the terms pool and spa are used interchangeably in the following description with a spa being a particular type of pool which may include a supply of aerated water.
  • the inflatable pool 100 in the present invention comprises top wall or panel 10, bottom wall or panel 20, inner surrounding or side wall 106, outer surrounding or side wall 108 and a plurality of laminated interval or bracing elements 120.
  • the interval or bracing elements 120 may also be walls or panels.
  • the diameter of the outer side wall 108 is longer than that of the inner side wall 106, and the outer side wall 108 is sleeved out of the inner side wall 106, and a circular trough structure.
  • the outer side wall 108 surrounds and may be substantially concentric with the inner side wall
  • the top wall 102 is annular, and is connected to the top of the inner side wall 106 and the outer side wall 108.
  • the bottom wall 104 is connected to the bottom of the inner side wall 106 and the outer wall 108.
  • An air chamber 110 is generated by the top wall 102, the bottom wall 104, the inner or internal wall 106 and the outer or external wall 108.
  • the laminated walls 120 are vertically arranged in the air chamber 110 in an annular array manner; and are connected to the inner wall 106 and the outer wall 108 through suitable coupling techniques, such as high-frequency coupling (or welding), hot coupling (e.g. melting or welding), or adhering (e.g. gluing), for example.
  • suitable coupling techniques such as high-frequency coupling (or welding), hot coupling (e.g. melting or welding), or adhering (e.g. gluing), for example.
  • An interval 122 is formed between the top of the laminated elements 120 and the top wall 102.
  • a gap 124 is formed between the bottom of the laminated elements 120 and the bottom wall 104.
  • the laminated wall 120 comprises a pattern or screen layer 130 formed by a porous open pattern of crossed or interwoven yarns or fibers (e.g. a cloth or textile having an open weave) and two attaching layers 132.
  • the two attaching layers 132 are attached to the upper and lower surface of the first layer 130 respectively to hold the first layer 130.
  • the attaching layer or layers 132 can be made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride), TPR (thermoplastic rubber), EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) or cloth.
  • the laminated layer 120 can also comprise one attaching layer 132, and the pattern layer 130 is attached to the attaching layer 132.
  • the laminated layer 120, the outer wall 108 and the inner wall 106 can be connected through suitable coupling techniques, such as high-frequency coupling (or welding), hot coupling (e.g. melting or welding), or adhering (e.g. gluing), for example.
  • suitable coupling techniques such as high-frequency coupling (or welding), hot coupling (e.g. melting or welding), or adhering (e.g. gluing), for example.
  • the laminated interval wall 120, the outer wall 108 and the inner wall 106 can be connected by a connecting element, strip, wall or panel in a transition manner, namely the laminated element 120 is connected to the connecting element 90 through, for example, high-frequency coupling (or welding), hot coupling (e.g. melting or welding), or adhering (e.g. gluing), then the connecting element 90 is connected to the inner wall 106 and the outer wall 108 through high-frequency coupling (or welding), hot coupling (e.g. melting or welding), or adhering (e.g. gluing).
  • high-frequency coupling or welding
  • hot coupling e.g. melting or welding
  • adhering e.g. gluing
  • an inflatable pool or spa 100 including a top wall 102, a bottom wall 104, an internal or inner wall 106, and an external or outer wall 108.
  • the top wall 102 is an annular wall and is connected to the top ends of both the internal wall 106 and the external wall 108.
  • the bottom wall 104 is also an annular wall and is connected to the bottom ends of both the internal wall 106 and the external wall 108.
  • the diameter of the external wall 108 is larger than the diameter of the internal wall 106.
  • the top wall 102, the bottom wall 104, the internal wall 106, and the external wall 108 of the spa or pool may be constructed of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic rubber (TPR), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPU), or other suitable materials.
  • PVC polyvinyl chloride
  • TPR thermoplastic rubber
  • EVA ethylene vinyl acetate
  • TPU thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer
  • the spa or pool 100 includes an inflatable air chamber 110 formed between the top wall 102, the bottom wall 104, the internal wall 106, and the external wall 108.
  • the air chamber 110 includes one or more suitable air vents (not shown) for inflating and deflating the air chamber 110.
  • the air chamber 110 may be inflated to a relatively high pressure greater than about 0.8 psi.
  • the air chamber 110 may be inflated to a pressure of about 0.9 psi, 1.0 psi, 1.1 psi, 1.2 psi, 1.3 psi, 1.4 psi, 1.5 psi, 1.6 psi, or more.
  • Such pressures may be about 1.5 or 2 times greater than pressures used to inflate traditional inflatable products.
  • the spa pool 100 also includes a water cavity 112 formed by the bottom wall 104 and the internal wall 106.
  • the pool 100 also includes a plurality of internal tensioning, interval or bracing elements or structures 120 that maintain the shape of the pool 100 when the air chamber 110 is pressurized.
  • the tensioning structures 120 may enhance the strength of the pool 100, allowing the air chamber 110 to withstand relatively high internal pressures, as discussed above, while also providing comfort a user sitting on or in pool or spa 100.
  • each tensioning structure 120 is arranged vertically and radially in the air chamber 110 in an annular array pattern. As shown in FIG. 3 , each tensioning structure 120 may be coupled to the internal wall 106 and the external wall 108, as discussed further below with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8 . Also, each tensioning structure 120 may be spaced apart from top wall 102 and the bottom wall 104 to define an upper gap 122 relative to the top wall 102 and a lower gap 124 relative to the bottom wall 104.
  • each tensioning structure 120 may include a porous layer or sheet 130 and one or more attachment layers or sheets 132 attached (e.g., laminated) to the porous layer 130.
  • the porous layer 130 is sandwiched between two attachment layers 132, with the attachment layers 132 being attached to both the upper surface and the lower surface of the porous layer 130.
  • the porous layer 130 is attached to a single attachment layer 132, with the single attachment layer 132 being attached to either the upper surface 160 or the lower surface 162 of the porous layer 130.
  • the tensioning structure 120 may be generally rectangular in shape, as shown in FIG. 4 .
  • the porous layer 130 includes a generally rectangular outer perimeter 150 formed by edges 152a-d
  • the attachment layer 132 includes a generally rectangular outer perimeter 154 formed by edges 156a-d.
  • the attachment layer 132 may span across the entire porous layer 130, as shown in FIG. 5 , such that the outer perimeter of the attachment layer generally overlaps the outer perimeter of the porous layer. It is also within the scope of the present disclosure that the attachment layer may span across a portion of the porous layer.
  • the porous layer 130 may be formed from a plurality of ligaments or frame members 134 that define a plurality of holes or pores 136 therebetween, as shown in FIG. 4 .
  • frame members 134 may be placed in tension to help maintain the shape of spa 100.
  • Adjacent frame members 134 may be spaced apart regular intervals to provide the tensioning structure 120 with a substantially constant tensile strength.
  • Each pore 136 of the porous layer 130 may be enclosed or entirely surrounded by intersecting frame members 134 over a 360 degree range.
  • a plurality of pores 136 may be located entirely within the outer perimeter 154 of the attachment layer 132 to facilitate attachment to the attachment layer 132, as discussed further below. It is also within the scope of the present disclosure that other pores 136 may be located outside of the outer perimeter 154 of the attachment layer 132.
  • the size and shape of each pore 136 may vary depending on the thickness and orientation of the surrounding frame members 134.
  • the porous layer 130 may also include a plurality of open spaces 158 that are partially surrounded by frame members 134 and partially exposed along the outer perimeter 150, for example.
  • the frame members 134 are arranged in a grid pattern, including a first set of spaced-apart and parallel frame members 138 and a second set of spaced-apart and parallel frame members 139.
  • the first set of frame members 138 is transverse to the second set of frame members 139 such that the first set of frame members 138 intersects the second set of frame members 139.
  • the grid pattern is rotated by about 45 degrees from a horizontal axis to resemble a lattice, such that the first set of frame members 138 are angled upward from the horizontal axis (e.g., about +45 degrees from the horizontal axis), and the second set of frame members 139 are angled downward from the horizontal axis (e.g. , about -45 degrees from the horizontal axis) and substantially perpendicular to the first set of frame members 138. Between adjacent frame members 134, evenly spaced, diamond-shaped pores 136 are formed in FIG. 4 . Adjacent pores 136 may also be angled upward and downward relative to the horizontal axis.
  • the porous, pattern or screen layer 130 may be constructed of a mesh, cloth, or screen having interwoven strings, fibers, or wires as individual frame members 134. Certain embodiments use fibers of a polyester, nylon or cotton. As shown in FIG. 4 , each frame member 134 may include a first terminal end 170 located at an edge (e.g., edge 152a) of the porous layer 130 and a second terminal end 172 located at an opposing edge (e.g. , edge 152c) of the porous layer 130.
  • each tensioning structure 120 may be coupled to the internal wall 106 and the external wall 108 using suitable coupling techniques, such as high-frequency coupling, hot coupling (e.g., melting, welding), or adhering (e.g. , gluing), for example.
  • suitable coupling techniques such as high-frequency coupling, hot coupling (e.g., melting, welding), or adhering (e.g. , gluing), for example.
  • the tensioning structure 120 is directly coupled to the internal wall 106 and the external wall 108 along a seam 142.
  • the tensioning structure 120 is indirectly coupled to the internal wall 106 and the external wall 108 using intermediate connecting layers 140.
  • the tensioning structure 120 is coupled to the intermediate connecting layer 140 via a first seam 144, and the intermediate connecting layers 140 are coupled to the internal wall 106 and the external wall 108 via a second seam 146.
  • the seams 142, 144, 146 may be located along opposing edges (e.g., edges 152a, 156a and edges 152c, 156c) of the tensioning structure 120.
  • the seams 142, 144, 146 are shown extending in a vertical direction along the right-side edges 152a, 156a, of the tensioning structure 120 to attach the tensioning structure 120 to the adjacent internal wall 106 and along the left-side edges 152c, 156c of the tensioning structure 120 to attach the tensioning structure 120 to the adjacent external wall 108, for example.
  • the frame members 134 are oriented transverse (i.e., not parallel) to the seams 142, 144, 146.
  • the frame members 138 are angled side-to-side in the vertical direction.
  • the vertical line will intersect at least one pore 136 or open space 158 between the frame members 134.
  • the frame members 138 are also oriented transverse to any horizontal line that is perpendicular to the seams 142, 144, 146. As discussed above, the frame members 138 are angled upward and downward in the horizontal direction. In this embodiment, as any horizontal line perpendicular to the vertical seams 142, 144, 146 passes through the tensioning structure 120, the horizontal line will intersect at least one pore 136 or open space 158 between the frame members 134. In other words, there is no horizontal line that will pass entirely through the tensioning structure 120 along a frame member 134 without intersecting at least one pore 136 or open space 158 adjacent to the frame member 134.
  • the materials used to construct these adjacent layers may be the same or otherwise compatible.
  • the internal wall 106, the external wall 108, and the optional intermediate connecting layers 140 are constructed of PVC, TPR, EVA, or TPU
  • at least a portion of the corresponding tensioning structure 120 may also be constructed of PVC, TPR, EVA, or TPU.
  • the compatible materials may have the same or similar melting points to ensure that the materials melt, blend together, and form secure connections.
  • the attachment layer 132 of the tensioning structure 120 may be constructed of a compatible material.
  • the porous layer 130 of the tensioning structure 120 may be constructed of a different, potentially incompatible (e.g., higher melting), potentially stronger material, because the pores 136 in the porous layer 130 may accommodate bonding of adjacent compatible materials (e.g., one or more attachment layers 132, the internal wall 106 of spa, the external wall 108 of spa, and/or the optional intermediate connecting layers 140) through the pores 136 in the porous layer 130.
  • the attachment layer 132 of the tensioning structure 120 may be constructed of a compatible material such as PVC, TPR, EVA, or TPU, whereas the porous layer 130 of the tensioning structure 120 may be constructed of a cloth or screen.
  • Control system 200 includes a base 202 and an outer shell 204 mounted to base 202.
  • Control system 200 also includes a controller 206 and a control panel assembly 208 having a plurality of buttons 210, as shown in FIG. 11 .
  • buttons 210 as shown in FIG. 11 .
  • control panel assembly 208 sends appropriate signals to controller 206, and controller 206 controls the operation of control system 200.
  • Control system 200 includes a water passageway 220 that extends between a water inlet pipe 222 from spa 100 and a water outlet or return pipe 224 to spa 100.
  • control system 200 includes a filter pump (not shown) that pumps and filters water from spa 100 and a heating unit 226 that heats water from spa 100 before returning the water to spa 100, as shown in FIG. 11 .
  • control system 200 may include a hard water treatment unit (not shown) and/or a salt water unit (not shown). The user may selectively activate and deactivate these units using buttons 210 on the control panel assembly 208.
  • some units may activate and deactivate automatically based on the status of another unit. For example, whenever the heating unit 226 is activated, the filter pump may activate automatically to pump water through the warmed heating unit 226. As another example, whenever the filter pump is activated, the hard water treatment unit may activate automatically to treat the filtered water.
  • control system 200 also includes an air passageway 230.
  • control system 200 includes an air pump 232 having an air generating assembly 234 with a suction side 236 and a pressurized discharge side 238.
  • the discharge side 238 of the air pump 232 includes a delivery or way-making cavity 246 having an arcuate valve seat surface 248 around the delivery cavity 246.
  • the air passageway 230 includes an air inlet pipe 240 (which may also be referred to herein as a deflation pipe) ( FIG. 13 ).
  • the air passageway 230 includes a first air outlet pipe 242 (which may also be referred to herein as an inflation pipe) and a second air outlet pipe 244 (which may also be referred to herein as an aeration pipe).
  • the illustrative air passageway 230 includes a first pipe portion 250 that communicates with the discharge side 238 of the air pump 232, a second pipe portion 252 that follows the first pipe portion 250, and a third pipe portion 254 that follows the second pipe portion 252 and communicates with the outlet pipes 242, 244.
  • the second pipe portion 252 is illustratively positioned above shell 204 and above the water level of spa 100, more specifically above the top wall 102 of spa 100, to protect the air pump 232 by resisting the backflow of water from spa 100 to the air pump 232.
  • the control panel assembly 208 may be elevated relative to spa 100 to allow a user in spa 100 to more easily access buttons 210 on the control panel assembly 208. As shown in FIG. 15 , the control panel assembly 208 may be mounted to the second pipe portion 252 at a location above the top wall 102 of spa 100. It is also within the scope of the present disclosure that the control panel assembly 208 may be telescopically coupled to shell 204 via a lifting rod, for example, for movement between a stored position below spa 100 and a use position above spa 100.
  • the air passageway 230 may extend above spa 100 to prevent the backflow of water from spa 100 to the air pump 232.
  • the illustrative air passageway 230 also includes a first check valve 260, a drain valve 280, and a second check valve 310.
  • the first check valve 260 and the second check valve 310 may function simultaneously to provide dual-protection to the air pump 232, so that if one check valve is out of order, the other check valve can do the work.
  • the first check valve 260 is arranged between the discharge side 238 of air pump 232 and the first pipe portion 250.
  • the second check valve 310 is arranged along the third pipe portion 254, more specifically below the first air outlet pipe 242 of the third pipe portion 254 and above the second air outlet pipe 244 of the third pipe portion 254.
  • the first check valve 260 is shown in FIGS. 17 and 18 .
  • the first check valve 260 includes a first housing 262 that is coupled to the air pump 232 and the first pipe portion 250 and defines an internal cavity 264.
  • the first check valve 260 also includes a first valve core 266 having a stem 268, a head 270, and a hemispherical sealing piece 272 coupled to the head 270.
  • the first check valve 260 further includes a first elastic spring 274 that interacts with the first valve core 266, the first elastic spring 274 being sleeved around the stem 268 of the first valve core 266 with one end positioned against head 270 and the other end positioned against the first housing 262.
  • the first valve core 266 moves longitudinally through the internal cavity 264 of the first housing 262 between a sealed or closed position and an open position.
  • the sealing piece 272 of the first valve core 266 extends into the delivery cavity 246 and seals against the valve seat surface 248, as shown in FIG. 18 .
  • the sealing piece 272 of the first valve core 266 moves out of the delivery cavity 246 and separates from the valve seat surface 248.
  • the first housing 262 may also include a drain valve 280 coupled to a drain hole 282 from the first housing 262, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18 .
  • the drain valve 280 includes an upper housing 284 having an uneven or wavy upper valve seat surface 286 and a lower housing 288 having a lower valve seat surface 290.
  • the upper housing 284 and the lower housing 288 cooperate to define an internal drain cavity 292 in fluid communication with the drain hole 282.
  • the drain hole 282 from the first housing 262 may be internally threaded and the upper housing 284 may be externally threaded to screw into to the first housing 262.
  • the drain valve 280 also includes a drain valve core 294 having a stem 296, a flat head 298 having a clamping slot 300, and a circular sealing piece 302 positioned in the clamping slot 300.
  • the drain valve 280 also includes an elastic spring 304 that interacts with the drain valve core 294, the elastic spring 304 being sleeved around the stem 296 of the drain valve core 294 with one end positioned against head 298 and the other end positioned against the lower housing 288.
  • the drain valve core 294 moves longitudinally through the internal drain cavity 292 between a sealed or closed position and an open position.
  • the sealing piece 302 of the drain valve core 294 is hermetically sealed against the lower valve seat surface 290.
  • the sealing piece 302 of the drain valve core 294 moves away from the lower valve seat surface 290 and the flat head 298 of the drain valve core 294 moves toward the uneven upper valve seat surface 286.
  • the air generating assembly 234 When the air pump 232 is on, the air generating assembly 234 operates and directs pressurized air from the suction side 236 of the air pump 232 to the delivery cavity 246.
  • the air drives the first valve core 266 through the internal cavity 264 to the open position, in which the sealing piece 272 is separated from the valve seat surface 248 and the first elastic spring 274 is compressed.
  • the first check valve 260 With the first check valve 260 in the open position, air from the delivery cavity 246 enters the first housing 262 and flows out of the internal cavity 264.
  • the drain valve core 294 of the drain valve 280 moves downward under the action of air pressure to the sealed position, in which the sealing piece 302 is sealed against the lower valve seat surface 290 and the elastic spring 304 is compressed.
  • the air pump 232 When the drain valve 280 is in the sealed position, the air pump 232 is able to operate normally.
  • the second check valve 310 is shown in FIGS. 19 and 20 . As discussed above, the second check valve 310 is arranged along the third pipe portion 254. More specifically, the second check valve 310 is arranged between an upper section 312 and a lower section 314 of the third pipe portion 254, where the upper section 312 increases in diameter in a downward direction and the lower section 314 increases in diameter in the downward direction.
  • the second check valve 310 includes a second valve mount 320 having a circular locating ring 322 a hollow locating stem 324 located in the locating ring 322, and one or more apertures 326 corresponding to apertures 328 in the lower section 314 for fastening the second valve mount 320 to the lower section 314 of the third pipe portion 254, such as with screws (not shown).
  • the second check valve 310 also includes a second valve core 330 having a stem 332, a head 334 with a lower stop platform or surface 336, and a hemispherical sealing piece 338 coupled to head 334.
  • the second check valve 310 further includes a second elastic spring 340 that interacts with the second valve core 330, the second elastic spring 340 being sleeved around stem 332 of the second valve core 330 with one end positioned against head 333 and the other end positioned against the second valve mount 320.
  • the second valve core 330 moves longitudinally through the locating stem 324 of the second valve mount 320 between a sealed or closed position and an open position.
  • the sealing piece 338 of the second valve core 330 is hermetically sealed against the upper section 312 of the third pipe portion 254, as shown in FIG. 20 .
  • the sealing piece 338 may produce line contact with the upper section 312 of the third pipe portion 254 in the sealed position.
  • the sealing piece 338 of the second valve core 330 moves away from the upper section 312 of the third pipe portion 254 until the lower stop surface 336 of head 334 abuts the locating stem 324 of the second valve mount 320.
  • the sealing piece 338 may separate freely from the upper section 312 of the third pipe portion 254 without an adhesion phenomenon, even if the second check valve 310 has not out of use for some time, thereby increasing the service life of the second check valve 310.
  • the second check valve 310 moves to the sealed position, in which the sealing piece 338 of the second valve core 330 is hermetically sealed against the upper section 312 of the third pipe portion 254 under the action of the second elastic spring 340. Because the upper section 312 of the third pipe portion 254 narrows in an upward direction, the sealing between the sealing piece 338 of the second valve core 330 and the upper section 312 of the third pipe portion 254 becomes progressively tighter as the water pressure from spa 100 increases.
  • the air pump 232 When the air pump 232 is on, the air reaches the second check valve 310 and drives the second valve core 330 downward through the locating stem 324 of the second valve mount 320 to the open position, in which the sealing piece 338 is separated from the upper section 312 of the third pipe portion 254 and the second elastic spring 340 is compressed. With the second check valve 310 in the open position, air flows through the locating stem 324 of the second valve mount 320 and to spa 100.
  • Control system 200 may have at least three modes of operation, including: (1) an inflation mode, (2) a deflation mode, and (3) an aeration or bubble mode. Rather than having to buy multiple pieces of equipment to perform these individual functions, the user may rely on control system 200 to perform these functions, which may save space and costs. The user may select the desired mode using the control panel assembly 208. These modes of operation are described further below.
  • control system 200 may direct air from the discharge side 238 of the air pump 232, to the inflation pipe 242, and to the air chamber 110 of spa 100 to inflate spa 100.
  • the inflation mode may be achieved by removing a detachable sealing cover assembly 360 from the inflation pipe 242 to open the inflation pipe 242.
  • the sealing cover assembly 360 illustratively includes a sealing plug 362, a cap or cover body 364 that covers the sealing plug 362 and threadably couples to the inflation pipe 242, and a sealing ring 366 positioned between the sealing plug 362 and the inflation pipe 242.
  • the inflation mode may also involve coupling an extension tube 368 to the inflation pipe 242 to increase the length of the inflation pipe 242 for coupling to the air chamber 110 of spa 100, as shown in FIG. 10 .
  • the inflation mode may also involve covering or closing the aeration pipe 244.
  • control system 200 may pull air from the air chamber 110 of spa 100, through the deflation pipe 240, and into the suction side 236 of the air pump 232 to deflate spa 100, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22 .
  • the deflation mode may involve coupling an extension tube 370 to the deflation pipe 240 to increase the length of the deflation pipe 240 for coupling to the air chamber 110 of spa 100.
  • the suction side 236 of the air pump 232 may pull air from the surrounding atmosphere.
  • control system 200 may direct air from the discharge side 238 of the air pump 232, to the aeration pipe 244, and to the water cavity 112 of spa 100 to create massaging air bubbles in spa 100.
  • the aeration mode may be achieved by covering the inflation pipe 242 with the sealing cover assembly 360 to close the inflation pipe 242 and opening the aeration pipe 244.
  • spa 100 may include an air transport pipe 380 that communicates with the aeration pipe 244 and extends through the external wall 108, through the air chamber 110, and through the internal wall 106 toward the water cavity 112.
  • the air transport pipe 380 may include a clapboard 382 having a mounting hole 384 and a third check valve 386 mounted in the mounting hole 384 to prevent the backflow of water from the water cavity 112 of spa 100.
  • Spa 100 may also include an air delivery chamber 388 in communication with the air transport pipe 380.
  • the air delivery chamber 388 is illustratively formed by an annular wall 390 that is hermetically coupled to the bottom wall 104 of spa 100 and includes a plurality of air delivery holes 392 to deliver massaging air bubbles from the air delivery chamber 388 into the water cavity 112 of spa 100.
  • the illustrative air delivery chamber 388 has an annular configuration, the air delivery chamber 388 may also have a multi-line configuration, for example.
  • the heating unit 226 for use in control system 200 is shown in FIGS. 25 and 26 .
  • the heating unit 226 includes a U-shaped housing 400, two sealing elements 402, two end joints 404, each having a water cavity 406, and a heating element 408.
  • the U-shaped housing 400 includes a U-shaped cavity 410 that runs longitudinally from end-to-end and an assembly groove 412 at the center of the U-shaped cavity 410 that also runs longitudinally from end-to-end.
  • the U-shaped cavity 410 and the assembly groove 412 may create a compact structure having good heating and water flow capacity.
  • the U-shaped housing 400 may also include a plurality of internal reinforcing ribs 414, as shown in FIG. 26 , that are spaced apart along the U-shaped cavity 410 to increase the strength of the U-shaped housing 400.
  • the heating element 408 may be a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heating plate or another suitable heating element that safe, reliable, stable, and provides a high heating effect.
  • the heating element 408 may be disposed in the assembly groove 412 of the U-shaped housing 400 to heat the water flowing through the adjacent U-shaped cavity 410, which illustratively surrounds the heating element 408 on three of its four edges for substantial heating.
  • the heating element 408 may be held securely in place inside the assembly groove 412 by inserting a plurality of bolts 420 through receptacles 422 in the U-shaped housing 400 and across the assembly groove 412 and then securing bolts 420 with nuts 424.
  • the two end joints 404 are respectively disposed at both ends of the U-shaped housing 400.
  • the water cavities 406 of the end joints 404 are arranged in fluid communication with the U-shaped cavity 410 of the U-shaped housing 400.
  • the end joint 404 may include a first U-shaped wall 432 that projects from the mating surface 430 to couple the corresponding water cavity 406 to the U-shaped cavity 410 in the U-shaped housing 400 via the corresponding sealing element 402, as discussed further below.
  • One or both of the end joints 404 may include a thermostat 434 to measure the temperature of the water in the heating unit 226 before and/or after being heated by the heating element 408.
  • Each sealing element 402 is respectively disposed between the U-shaped housing 400 and the end joints 404.
  • Each sealing element 402 may include an inward mating surface 442 that faces inwardly to mate with the U-shaped housing 400, an outward mating surface 444 that faces outwardly to mate with the mating surface 430 of the corresponding end joint 404, and a U-shaped slot 446 that extends between the inward mating surface 442 and the outward mating surface 444.
  • each sealing element 402 may include a second U-shaped wall 448 that projects from the inward mating surface 442 and into the U-shaped cavity 410 in the U-shaped housing 400 to couple the U-shaped slot 446 to the U-shaped cavity 410 in a sealed manner.
  • each U-shaped slot 446 may receive the first U-shaped wall 432 of the corresponding end joint 404 in a sealed manner.
  • controller 206 may ensure that the electric current of the control system 200 stays below a predetermined limit, such as a standard household limit of 13 A to 16 A.
  • controller 206 may limit the power supply to one or more other units of the control system 200 when the air pump 232 is activated in the aeration mode, and controller 206 may restore the power supply to the other units of the control system 200 when the air pump 232 is deactivated.
  • controller 206 may automatically limit the power supply to the heating unit 226 to about 50% or less when the air pump 232 is activated in the aeration mode, and controller 206 may automatically restore the power supply to the heating unit 226 to 100% when the air pump 232 is deactivated.
  • the user may also be advised to deactivate one or more other units of the control system 200, such as the salt water unit (not shown).
  • a second control system 500 is shown for use with spa 100.
  • the second control system 500 may include various features in common with the first control system 200, except as described below.
  • the second control system 500 may include a controller similar to the above-described controller 206 of FIGS. 10-14 and a heating unit similar to the above-described heating unit 226 of FIGS. 25 and 26 .
  • the second control system 500 may also include a hard water treatment unit (not shown) and/or a salt water unit (not shown).
  • the illustrative control system 500 includes an inlet pipe 510 having a filtered water inlet portion 512 and a jetted water inlet portion 514. Although the filtered water inlet portion 512 and the jetted water inlet portion 514 are substantially parallel to one another and part of the same inlet pipe 510, the filtered water inlet portion 512 is independent of the jetted water inlet portion 514 in FIG. 27 . Combining the filtered water inlet portion 512 and the jetted water inlet portion 514 in the same inlet pipe 510 may decrease the number of pipes and holes required in spa 100, decrease the size and cost of the control system 500, and simplify assembly of the control system 500.
  • the control system 500 further includes an outlet pipe 520 having a filtered water outlet portion 522 and a jetted water outlet portion 524. Although the filtered water outlet portion 522 and the jetted water outlet portion 524 are collinear with one another and part of the same outlet pipe 520, the filtered water outlet portion 522 is independent of the jetted water outlet portion 524 in FIG. 27 . As discussed above with respect to the inlet pipe 510, combining the filtered water outlet portion 522 and the jetted water outlet portion 524 in the same outlet pipe 520 may decrease the number of pipes and holes required in spa 100, decrease the size and cost of the control system 500, and simplify assembly of the control system 500.
  • the control system 500 still further includes a filtered water pump 532 and a jetted water pump 534.
  • the filtered water pump 532 directs water along a filtered water passageway from the filtered water inlet portion 512 to the filtered water outlet portion 522.
  • the jetted water pump 534 directs water along a jetted water passageway from the jetted water inlet portion 514 to the jetted water outlet portion 524.
  • the control system 500 still further includes a drain assembly 540 including a filtered water drain passageway 542 from the filtered water passageway, a jetted water drain passageway 544 from the jetted water passageway, a drain valve body 546 located below the filtered water passageway and the jetted water passageway, and a drain valve plug 548 having a first sealing element 550 and a second sealing element 552.
  • a drain assembly 540 including a filtered water drain passageway 542 from the filtered water passageway, a jetted water drain passageway 544 from the jetted water passageway, a drain valve body 546 located below the filtered water passageway and the jetted water passageway, and a drain valve plug 548 having a first sealing element 550 and a second sealing element 552.
  • the drain valve body 546 includes a first inlet 560 in fluid communication with the filtered water drain passageway 542, a second inlet 562 in fluid communication with the jetted water drain passageway 544, and a combined outlet 564 that discharges water from the filtered water drain passageway 542 and the jetted water drain passageway 544.
  • the drain valve body 546 also includes a first portion 570 that defines the first and second inlets 560, 562 and a second portion or cover 572 that defines the outlet 564. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 29 , the first portion 570 of the drain valve body 546 is internally threaded.
  • the drain valve plug 548 extends through the outlet 564 in the second portion 572 of the drain valve body 546 and into the first portion 570 of the drain valve body 546.
  • the drain valve plug 548 is movably coupled to the drain valve body 546.
  • the drain valve plug 548 is externally threaded for threaded, rotatable engagement with the first portion 570 of the drain valve body 546.
  • the first sealing element 550 is coupled to the drain valve plug 548 and is configured to selectively open or close the first inlet 560 from the filtered water drain passageway 542. As shown in FIG. 29 , the first sealing element 550 faces the first inlet 560 from the base of the drain valve plug 548.
  • the second sealing element 552 is coupled to the drain valve plug 548 and is configured to selectively open or close the second inlet 562 from the jetted water drain passageway 544. As shown in FIG. 29 , the second sealing element 552 is positioned between the drain valve plug 548 and the drain valve body 546. The second sealing element 552 is tightly fit with the first portion 570 of the drain valve body 546 and is loosely fit with the second portion 572 of the drain valve body 546.
  • the drain valve plug 548 may be threaded into the drain valve body 546.
  • the first sealing element 550 is pressed against the first inlet 560 to close the filtered water drain passageway 542.
  • the second sealing element 552 is pressed against the first portion 570 of the drain valve body 546 to also close the jetted water drain passageway 544.
  • the drain valve plug 548 may be threaded away from the drain valve body 546.
  • the first sealing element 550 is separated from the first inlet 560 to open the filtered water drain passageway 542 to the outlet 564 around the drain valve plug 548.
  • the second sealing element 552 is separated from the first portion 570 of the drain valve body 546 and moved into the second portion 572 of the drain valve body 546 to open the jetted water drain passageway 544 to the outlet 564 around the loosened drain valve plug 548.
  • spa 100 includes an inlet pipe 600 that extends from the water cavity 112, through a first opening 602 in the internal wall 106, through the air chamber 110, and through a first opening 604 in the external wall 108 to direct water from the water cavity 112 of spa 100 to the inlet pipe 510 of the control system 500.
  • the illustrative inlet pipe 600 includes a filtered water inlet portion 612 having a first end 614 located at the internal wall 106 in fluid communication with the water cavity 112 and a second end 616 located at the external wall 108 in fluid communication with the filtered water inlet portion 512 of the control system 500.
  • the illustrative inlet pipe 600 also includes a jetted water inlet portion 622 having a first end 624 located at the internal wall 106 in fluid communication with the water cavity 112 and a second end 626 located at the external wall 108 in fluid communication with the jetted water inlet portion 514 of the control system 500.
  • the filtered water inlet portion 612 and the jetted water inlet portion 622 of the inlet pipe 600 associated with spa 100 may be independent and parallel to one another, with a separating wall 630 disposed therebetween.
  • the separating wall 630 may be circular in shape, arcuate in shape, rectangular in shape, or wavy in shape, for example.
  • the filtered water inlet portion 612 is smaller in diameter than the jetted water inlet portion 622 to ensure that the water pressure of the jetted water passageway is higher than that of the filtered water passageway.
  • the inlet pipe 600 further includes a filtering cover 640.
  • the cover 640 includes a first portion 642 in fluid communication with the first end 614 of the filtered water inlet portion 612 of the inlet pipe 600, and a second portion 644 in fluid communication with the first end 624 of the jetted water inlet portion 622 of the inlet pipe 600, as shown in FIG. 33 .
  • the corresponding first portion 642 and second portion 644 of the cover 640 may be independent and parallel to one another, and the first portion 642 may be smaller than the second portion 644.
  • Cover 640 may be positioned at the first opening 602 in the internal wall 106 to interface with the water cavity 112 of spa 100, as shown in FIG. 31 .
  • Cover 640 is shown in more detail in FIGS. 34 and 35 .
  • a first filter screen 646 is shown covering the first portion 642 and a second filter screen 648 is shown covering the second portion 644.
  • the first filter screen 646 and the second filter screen 648 may be a unitary piece formed during a single forming step, which may decrease the size and cost of cover 640 and simplify assembly of cover 640.
  • the first filter screen 646 may be externally threaded for convenient coupling to other pipes, if applicable.
  • spa 100 includes an outlet pipe 700 that extends from the outlet pipe 520 of the control system 500 to the water cavity 112 of spa 100 to return water to spa 100.
  • the illustrative outlet pipe 700 includes a filtered water outlet portion 712 in fluid communication with the filtered water outlet portion 522 of the control system 500 and a jetted water outlet portion 714 in fluid communication with the jetted water outlet portion 524 of the control system 500.
  • the outlet pipe 700 includes a main body 720 and a diversion body 722 connected together via an intermediate connection body 724.
  • the diversion body 722 is illustratively perpendicular to the main body 720.
  • the filtered water outlet portion 712 extends through the main body 720. As shown in FIG. 36 , the filtered water outlet portion 712 extends from a first end 730 of the main body 720 located at the external wall 108 of spa 100 to a second end 732 of the main body 720 located at the internal wall 106 of spa 100 and above the diversion body 722.
  • the jetted water outlet portion 714 extends initially through the main body 720, then through the connection body 724, and then through the diversion body 722 for distribution around spa 100. As shown in FIG. 36 , jetted water outlet portion 714 extends from a first end 734 of the main body 720 located at the external wall 108 of spa 100 to two second ends or outlets 736 located on either side of the main body 720.
  • the filtered water outlet portion 712 and the jetted water outlet portion 714 of the outlet pipe 700 associated with spa 100 may be independent and collinear with one another, at least initially, with a separating wall 740 disposed therebetween.
  • the separating wall 740 extends through the main body 720 to separate the filtered water outlet portion 712 from the jetted water outlet portion 714 in the main body 720.
  • the separating wall 740 may be circular in shape, arcuate in shape, rectangular in shape, or wavy in shape, for example.
  • the filtered water outlet portion 712 is smaller in diameter than the jetted water outlet portion 714 to ensure that the water pressure of the jetted water passageway is higher than that of the filtered water passageway.
  • the internal wall 106 of spa 100 may define one or more filtered water openings 750 for delivering filtered water to the water cavity 112 and one or more jetted water openings 752 for delivering jetted water to the water cavity 112.
  • the internal wall 106 of spa 100 includes one filtered water opening 750 and several jetted water openings 752 spaced annularly about spa 100.
  • spa 100 may include a jetted water pipe network 760 in fluid communication with the outlet pipe 700 to deliver jetted water to the water cavity 112 of spa 100.
  • the outlet pipe 700 and the jetted water pipe network 760 may be substantially contained or concealed within the air chamber 110 of spa 100 to enhance the appearance of spa 100, to protect the outlet pipe 700 and the jetted water pipe network 760 from the surrounding environment, to simplify assembly, disassembly, storage, and transport of spa 100, and to reduce leakage from spa 100.
  • the jetted water pipe network 760 includes a plurality of spray nozzles 762 that extend through the jetted water openings 752 in the internal wall 106 of spa 100.
  • each spray nozzle 762 may include a first segment 764 having a small internal diameter and a second segment 766 having a large internal diameter in fluid communication with the first segment 764.
  • Each spray nozzle 762 may also include an air hole 768 into the second segment 766 at a location near the first segment 764.
  • the diameter of the air hole 768 may be less than or equal to 0.8 mm, for example, to prevent water from leaking through the air hole 768.
  • the jetted water pipe network 760 also includes a flexible connecting pipe 770 (e.g., a hose) between adjacent spray nozzles 762.
  • the flexible nature of the connecting pipe 770 may allow the deflated spa 100 to be folded for storage and/or transport.
  • the flexible connecting pipe 770 of the jetted water pipe network 760 extends annularly around spa 100 from both outlets 736 of the outlet pipe 700.
  • the jetted water pipe network 760 further includes a plurality of flexible sealing sleeves 772 to couple each spray nozzle 762 to the internal wall 106 of spa 100 in a sealed manner to prevent air and water leakage in spa 100 and to prolong the useful life of spa 100.
  • the internal wall 106 of spa 100 may be sandwiched between each sealing sleeve 772 and the corresponding spray nozzle 762 in a sealed manner, as shown in FIG. 41 .
  • Each sealing sleeve 772 may have a stepped configuration including a small stem portion 774 and a large head portion 776 that forms a flange 778 around sealing sleeve 772.
  • each sealing sleeve 772 may be coupled internally or externally to the corresponding spray nozzle 762 using suitable coupling techniques, such as high-frequency coupling, hot coupling (e.g., melting or injection molding), or adhering (e.g., gluing).
  • suitable coupling techniques such as high-frequency coupling, hot coupling (e.g., melting or injection molding), or adhering (e.g., gluing).
  • the flange 778 on the large head portion 776 of each sealing sleeve 772 may be coupled to the internal wall 106 of spa 100 also suitable coupling techniques.
  • the material used to construct the sealing sleeves 772 may be the same as the material used to construct the internal wall 106 of spa 100, such as PVC, TPR, EVA, or TPU, for example. Such materials may be capable of being melted to seal the sealing sleeve 772 to its adjacent components and may be capable of undergoing thermal expansion without cracking.
  • the jetted water pipe network 760 further includes an air transport pipe 780.
  • the air transport pipe 780 may be similar to the above-described air transport pipe 380 of FIGS. 23 and 24 .
  • the air transport pipe 780 extends through the external wall 108, through the air chamber 110, and through the internal wall 106 of spa 100. Additional sealing sleeves 772 may be used to couple the air transport pipe to the external wall 108 and/or the internal wall 106 of spa 100 in a sealed manner.
  • the air transport pipe 780 may direct air directly into the water cavity 112 of spa 100.
  • the air transport pipe 780 may also direct air indirectly into the water cavity 112 of spa 100 via the spray nozzles 762.
  • the air transport pipe 780 pulls air from the surrounding atmosphere, directs the air through an annular and flexible connecting pipe 782, and injects the air into the air hole 768 of each spray nozzle 762 under the suction force of the water flowing through the spray nozzle 762.
  • the air from the air transport pipe 780 mixes with the water in the spray nozzle 762 to spray jetted water into the water cavity 112 of spa 100.
  • the flexible nature of the connecting pipe 782 may allow the deflated spa 100 to be folded for storage and/or transport.
  • the air transport pipe 780 may communicate with an air pump (e.g., air pump 232 of FIGS. 15-18 ), as discussed above in the "Bubble Embodiment" section.
  • the air transport pipe 780 may also deliver massaging air bubbles to spa 100.
  • the controller (not shown) of the control system 500 may ensure that the electric current of the control system 500 stays below a predetermined limit, such as a standard household limit of 13 A to 16 A.
  • the controller may limit the power supply to one or more other units of the control system 500 when the jetted water pump 534 is activated, and the controller may restore the power supply to the other units of the control system when the jetted water pump 534 is deactivated.
  • the controller may automatically limit the power supply to the heating unit (not shown) to about 50% or less when the jetted water pump 534 is activated, and the controller may automatically restore the power supply to the heating unit to 100% when the jetted water pump 534 is deactivated.
  • the controller may further limit the power supply to the heating unit to 0% when both the jetted water pump 534 and an additional air pump are activated.

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EP14824211.8A 2013-12-05 2014-12-05 Inflatable pool Active EP3077606B1 (en)

Priority Applications (3)

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EP19168260.8A EP3572600B1 (en) 2013-12-05 2014-12-05 Inflatable pool
EP22160581.9A EP4047159A3 (en) 2013-12-05 2014-12-05 Inflatable pool
PL14824211T PL3077606T3 (pl) 2013-12-05 2014-12-05 Basen dmuchany

Applications Claiming Priority (10)

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CN201320796506.9U CN203583938U (zh) 2013-12-05 2013-12-05 一种充气水池
CN201320888403.5U CN203634453U (zh) 2013-12-30 2013-12-30 一种按摩水池系统
CN201320892855.0U CN203640334U (zh) 2013-12-30 2013-12-30 一种过滤罩结构及其应用该过滤罩结构的充气水池
CN201320888639.9U CN203640339U (zh) 2013-12-30 2013-12-30 一种防止倒流的充气水池充气管结构
CN201420023673.4U CN203684742U (zh) 2013-11-21 2014-01-15 方便收折的侧喷充气水池
CN201410017358.5A CN103912147B (zh) 2013-11-21 2014-01-15 一种方便收折的侧喷充气水池
CN201420050705.XU CN203687330U (zh) 2014-01-26 2014-01-26 一种加热内胆结构
CN201420375437.9U CN203924786U (zh) 2014-07-08 2014-07-08 一种充气水池的吸气装置
NL2013918A NL2013918B1 (en) 2013-12-05 2014-12-04 Inflatable pool.
PCT/US2014/068884 WO2015085227A1 (en) 2013-12-05 2014-12-05 Inflatable pool

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EP19168260.8A Division EP3572600B1 (en) 2013-12-05 2014-12-05 Inflatable pool

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EP3077606B1 true EP3077606B1 (en) 2019-04-10

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CN204850582U (zh) * 2015-08-26 2015-12-09 明达实业(厦门)有限公司 水池喷头及应用此喷头的充气水池
US9896854B2 (en) 2015-10-10 2018-02-20 Bestway Inflatables & Material Corp. Pool apparatus
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EP3572600A1 (en) 2019-11-27
WO2015085227A8 (en) 2016-01-07
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