GB2455114A

GB2455114A - Support modules for a swimming pool

Info

Publication number: GB2455114A
Application number: GB0723353A
Authority: GB
Inventors: John Harris
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2007-11-28
Filing date: 2007-11-28
Publication date: 2009-06-03
Also published as: GB0723353D0

Abstract

The invention relates to a support 10 comprising a plurality of inter-engaged modules 20, 25 arranged to define an enclosure, for use as a swimming pool. Each module comprises a side member preferably in the form of a substantially vertical panel. At least one of the modules comprises a laterally curved panel. The support further comprises a retention device 50 arranged to retain the modules in place relative to one another. One or more modules may comprise male and female engagement portions located adjacent opposing edges of each side member such that the modules inter-engage with each other. The retention device preferably comprises a tension applicator 52. The modules preferably comprise guide channels (70 figure 2) through which a tension cable 54 runs. The tension cable is preferably metal and is tensioned by the tension applicator so as to apply peripheral compression to the modules. A later embodiment relates to a method for the assembly of said support.

Description

MODULAR SUPPORT

Field of Invention

The present invention relates to a modular structure for use as a support. In particular, the present invention relates to a modular structure for use as a pooi or hot tub assembly or the like, and a method of assembly of said modular structure.

Background to the invention

Outdoor swimming pools and hot tubs are becoming increasingly popular garden furniture for domestic residences and leisure facilities such as hotels, spas and the like. However, despite the provision of several alternative assembly methods and structures for such pools and tubs, existing such prior art pooi or tub structures are often unsightly having frame work and auxiliary equipment exposed, are often difficult to assemble, and may require the expertise of a professional to construct.

In order to overcome the need for specialist skills to assemble the pools or tubs and/or specialist equipment for transport and assembly of the pools or tubs, versions exist which can be assembled at home by a non-specialist. However, such pools carry the disadvantage that they are typically very light, and lack durability.

In addition, although the assembly may not require specialist skill, the assembly process is often time consuming and difficult with the final assembled structure lacking in quality.

There is therefore a need for an alternative pool or tub structure which is easily assembled without the need for specialist skills and which, when assembled, is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. d

Summary of the Invention

The present invention seeks to address the problems of the prior art.

Accordingly, a first aspect of the present invention provides a support comprising a plurality of interengagable modules arranged to define an enclosure, each module comprising a side member, at least one module comprising a curved side member, and a retention device arranged to retain the modules in place relative to one another.

A side member may comprise a first substantially vertical panel. In this situation, the retention device may be located adjacent a surface of the panel furthest from the defined enclosure.

In an alternative embodiment one or more of the side members may further comprise a second substantially vertical panel located adjacent the first panel such that the first panel is disposed between the second panel and the defined enclosure.

Where a side member of a module comprises two vertical panels, the first and second panels may be substantially parallel to one another. However, it will be appreciated that this need not be the case and the spatial separation of the two panels may vary within a single module and/or between modules.

In one embodiment, the panels may provide a framework on which a continuous surface may be supported. For example, the panels may provide a framework for supporting an inner plastic liner or a tough flexible waterproof membrane.

Alternatively, and more preferably, the panels comprise a substantially continuous surface such that a surface of the first panel defines at least a portion of the enclosure. Where a second panel is provided, the surface of the second panel furthest from the first panel may provide an aesthetically pleasing exterior surface to the support.

In one embodiment, each module may further comprise first and second engagement portions located adjacent opposing edges of each side member such that when the modules are interengaged the first engagement portion of one module interengages with the respective second engagement portion of an adjacent module.

For example, first and second engagement portions may comprise substantially continuous abutment surfaces such that respective engagement portions of adjacent modules abut one another when the support is assembled. The abutment surfaces are preferably substantially planar, although it will be appreciated that this need not be the case and an abutment surface may comprise a curved surface suitably contoured to correspond to the abutment surface of an adjacent module with which it interengages when the support is in an assembled state. Alternatively, rather than being curved, the respective abutment surfaces may have any suitable contours known to a skilled person which allow effective interengagement of adjacent modules when the support is in an assembled state.

Where the abutment surfaces are substantially planar, the abutments surfaces may additionally be substantially orthogonal to the tangent of the side member immediately adjacent the respective engagement portion. Thus, the support may comprise a plurality of identical modules which abut adjacent modules along the length of the abutment surface. In order to ensure a strong interengagement between adjacent modules, the abutment surface preferably extends substantially the height of the side walls, such that the region of abutment between adjacent modules extends substantially the height of adjacent module side walls. This arrangement would serve to strengthen the structure in an assembled state, as well as assisting in locating adjacent modules for interengagement prior to use of the retention device to retain the modules in place relative to one another to form the assembled structure.

In a further embodiment, first and second engagement portions comprise respective first and second complementary interengagement means. For example, such first and second engagement portions may comprise respective male and female interengagement means.

The male interengagement means may comprise a protrusion such as a pill OT dowel or the like and the female interengagement means may comprise a suitably dimensioned aperture within which at least a portion of the male interengagement means may be received.

Although specific examples of first and second engagement portions have been described, it will be appreciated that any suitable complementary interengagement arrangement known to the skilled person may be employed to assist in locating adjacent modules relative to one another.

In one embodiment the retention device comprises an elongate tension member such as a cable or wire or rope or the like. The retention member may comprise any suitable natural or synthetic material known to the skilled person such as, but not restricted to metal, polypropylene and nylon.

The retention device may be further provided with a tension applicator for applying and/or maintaining tension in the tension member, in use.

In one embodiment, the support further comprises guide means for locating the retention member in position relative to the modules when the structure is in an assembled state. For example, the guide means may comprise an open channel or groove into which the elongate retention member is received in use and held under tension. Alternatively, the guide means may comprise a closed channel through which the retention member is received in use.

It will be appreciated that a single closed channel such as a tube or the like may be provided which is located in place to hold the modules together once in position.

Alternatively, each module may be provided with a portion of a closed channel, the retention member being received within each portion of closed channel in use to retain the modules in position relative to one another when the support is in the assembled state. Similarly, where the guide means comprises an open channel, an open channel such as a track or groove or the like may be provided which spans the modules of and within which at least a portion of the retention member is received in use in order to hold the modules together once in position. However, preferably, where an open channel guide member is used, each module is provided with a portion of open channel, the retention member being located in place by the portion of open channel provided in each module.

iS It is to be appreciated that alternative guide means may be used, including but not restricted to multiple rings, hoops, tie fastenings or the like.

The guide member preferably locates the elongate tension member substantially orthogonal to the plane of the first and second engagement portions such that when the elongate tension member is tensioned, adjacent engagement portions of adjacent modules experience a nett lateral force of zero.

In one embodiment the retention device further comprises a tension applicator for the tensioning of the elongate tension member. This has the advantage of facilitating the application of tension to the tension member. The tension applicator may comprise any suitable tension applicator known to the skilled person and may remain in place after tensioning of the retention member or alternatively may be removed after the retention member has been tensioned by a desired amount.

Where the module is provided with a side wall comprising first and second panels, the tension device is preferably located in the space defined between the first and second panels such that the retention device is concealed from view when the support is in an assembled state. In this way, the aesthetic qualities of the assembled structure are not compromised. Access to the tension applicator may be provided by the provision of a releasable or removable section in one of the two panels in the module in which the tension applicator is located. Preferably, the releasable or removable section comprises at least a portion of the second panel.

In addition, in the situation described above where first and second panels are provided, the space defined between the panels may be used to accommodate items such as thermal insulation and/or auxiliary equipment such as electrical cables, pipes, ports, pumps and water conditioners and the like. In order to support such items therebetween, support members may be provided, for example, on either or both of the first and second panels, on which such items may be supported in position. Thus, such items may be conveniently located at least partially, if not completely, within the space between the first and second panels thereby concealing the items from view and avoiding compromising the aesthetics of the assembled structure. One or more panels may further comprise a removable section to allow access to auxiliary equipment located within the space defined between the first and second panels.

In one embodiment, for example, where the structure is to be used as a pool or tub or container, the or each module may be further provided with a lining support to support a lining in position relative to the structure.

A further aspect of the present invention provides a method for the assembly of a support, the method comprising the steps of: i. providing a plurality of modules, each module comprising a substantially vertical side member and at least one module comprising a curved side member; ii. arranging each module such that the plurality of modules interengage to define an enclosure; iii. providing a retention device arranged to retain the modules in place relative to one another; and iv. applying tension to the interengaged modules so as to retain the modules in interengagement with one another under tension.

Brief Description of the Drawings

An embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a support in accordance with a first aspect of the present invention; Figure 2 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a module of the support of figure 1; and Figure 3 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a module of the support of figure 1.

Detailed Description of the Invention

Figure 1 shows a support 10 for a pool or hot tub or the like, support 10 having a plurality of modules 20, 25 arranged to form a circular structure, each module having an inner facing panel 30 and an outer facing panel 40, inner and outer panels being substantially vertical and substantially parallel with one another and defining a space therebetween. Modules 20, 25 further comprise a first end portion 22 and a second end portion 24 respectively comprising male and female complementary engagement means (not shown), both end portions 22, 24 being substantially vertical and substantially orthogonal to the tangent of the panels immediately adjacent the respective end portions 22, 24. In this way, when a completed structure is compressed peripherally, substantially no lateral forces are created at abutted ends. Outer facing panel 40 of module 25 further comprises an aperture 45 through which access to tension applicator 52 is provided. When not in use cover 47 (not shown) is placed over aperture 45 to conceal tension applicator 52 from sight. Retention device 50 comprises tension applicator 52. Guide channels 70 are provided in the space defined between inner and outer facing panels 30, 40 with tension cable 54 extending therethrough. Tension cable 54 applies peripheral compression to the structure holding adjacent modules in abutment with one other. Panels 30, 40 comprise smooth surfaces free of sharp edges and corners which may harm users or other equipment used with the structure. Outer facing panel 40 further comprises an aesthetically pleasing surface.

It will be appreciated that other embodiments of support 10 are possible, differing in shape, size and number of modules 20, 25. It will be further appreciated that the geometry of modules 20, 25 may comprise one or more of a consistent lateral curvature (as shown in figure 1), an inconsistent lateral curvature and no lateral curvature. It will further be appreciated that a further embodiment may comprise a number of modules each comprising a different lateral curvature.

Figure 2 shows module 25 with inner facing panel 30 partially cut away to expose insulation 60 located between inner facing panel 30 and outer facing panel 40.

Male engagement means illustrated as pin 110 is shown at end 22 and complementary female engagement means illustrated as aperture 100 is shown at end 24. When support 10 is assembled, pin 110 at end 22 engages with aperture at end 24 of an adjacent module ensuring alignment of adjacent modules.

Module 25 further comprises retention device 50 comprising tension cable 54 and tension applicator 52 located in the space between panels 30, 40. Tension cable 54 comprises a metal cable, although it will be appreciated that any suitably strong elongate member may be used as an alternative. Tension cable 54 is located in position by guide channel 70, illustrated as a tube through which elongate tension member 54 passes. Guide channel 70 locates tension cable 54 such that at ends 22, 24 of module 25 its tangent is orthogonal to the plane of ends 22, 24.

Figure 3 shows a module further comprising auxiliary equipment 120, illustrated here as pipe work and a filter. 11 is to be understood that in further embodiments auxiliary equipment may comprise one or more of electrical cables, pipes, ports, pumps and water conditioners. Auxiliary equipment 120 is located between inner facing panel 30 and outer facing panel 40 so as to maintain an aesthetically pleasing appearance of assembled support 10. As and when required, outer facing panel 40 will further comprise an aperture to allow access to the space between inner and outer panels 30, 40 for maintenance of auxiliary equipment 120. In use, the aperture is fitted with a cover (not shown) to maintain the aesthetically pleasing appearance of module 25 when the aperture is not in use.

The support is assembled as described in the following steps.

1. Modules 20, 25 are arranged around a base, modules containing auxiliary equipment being conveniently positioned relative to services such as water and electricity supplies, with respective ends 22, 24 of adjacent modules abutting and male and female interengagement means 110, 100 interengaged; 2. Tension cable 54 is inserted into guide channel 70; 3. Tension applicator 52 is fitted to tension cable 54; 4. Tension applicator 52 is operated to apply required tension to tension cable 54; and 5. Optionally, a liner (not shown) is fitted to support 10. If)

It will be appreciated that with the addition of a waterproof liner the support 10 may, for example, be used as a swimming pooi. Alternatively the structure, with or without a liner, may be used to retain material such as sand to form a sand pit or soil to form a raised flower bed or the like.

Although aspects of the invention have been described with reference to the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the precise embodiment shown and that various changes and modifications may be effected without further inventive skill and effort, for example, modules 20, 25 may differ in shape, size and number. It will be further appreciated that the geometry of each of modules 20, 25 may comprise a consistent lateral curvature (as shown in figure 1), an inconsistent lateral curvature and/or no lateral curvature. It will further be appreciated that the support may comprise a number of modules each comprising a different lateral curvature.

Claims

1. A support comprising a plurality of interengagable modules arranged to define an enclosure, each module comprising a side member, at least one module comprising a curved side member, and a retention device arranged to retain the modules in place relative to one another.

2. A support according to claim 1, wherein the side member comprises a first, substantially vertical, panel.

3. A support according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one or more of the side members further comprises a second, substantially vertical, panel located adjacent the first panel such that the first panel is disposed between the second panel and the defined enclosure.

4. A support according to claim 3, wherein the first and second panels are substantially parallel to one another.

5. A support according to any preceding claim, wherein one or more modules further comprises first and second engagement portions located adjacent opposing edges of each side member such that when the modules are interengaged, the first engagement portion of one module interengages with the respective second engagement portion of an adjacent module.

6. A support according to claim 5, wherein the plane of the or each engagement portion is substantially vertical.

7. A support according to claim 5 wherein the plane of the engagement portion is substantially orthogonal to the tangent of the panel immediately adjacent the respective engagement portion.

8. A support according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the or each engagement portion comprises a substantially planer engagement surface.

9. A support according to any preceding claim, wherein first and second engagement portions comprise respective first and second complementary interengagement means.

10. A support according to claim 9, wherein the first and second engagement portions comprise respective male and female interengagement means.

11. A support according to claim 1, wherein the retention device comprises an elongate tension member.

12. A support according to claim 1, further comprising guide means for locating the retention member in position relative to the modules.

13. A support according to claim 12, wherein the guide means locates the elongate tension member substantially orthogonal to the plane of the first and second engagement portions.

14. A support according to any preceding Claim, wherein the retention device further comprises a tension applicator for the tensioning of the elongate tension member.

15. A support according to claims any one of Claims 3 to 14, wherein the retention device is located between first and second panels.

16. A support according to any one of Claims 3 to 15, wherein support members are provided on one or both of the first and second panels to support auxiliary equipment at least partially within the space defined by the first and second panels.

17. A support according to claim 16, wherein auxiliary equipment comprises one or more of electrical cables, pipes, ports, pumps and water conditioners.

18. A support according to any preceding claim, where in one or more panels further comprise a releasable access section to allow access to the space defined by the first and second panels.

19. A support according to claim 1, wherein the or each modules is further provided with a lining support to support a lining in position relative to the structure.

20. A method for the assembly of a support, the method comprising the steps of: a. providing a plurality of modules, each module comprising a substantially vertical side member and at least one module comprising a curved side member; b. arranging each module such that the plurality of modules interengage to define an enclosure; c. providing a retention device arranged to retain the modules in place relative to one another; and d. applying tension to the interengaged modules so as to retain the modules in interengagement with one another under tension.

21. A support substantially as hereinbefore described and with reference to the accompanying figures.

22. A method substantially as hereinbefore described and with reference to the accompanying figures.