NZ716393B2 - Spa cabinet attachment - Google Patents
Spa cabinet attachment Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- NZ716393B2 NZ716393B2 NZ716393A NZ71639316A NZ716393B2 NZ 716393 B2 NZ716393 B2 NZ 716393B2 NZ 716393 A NZ716393 A NZ 716393A NZ 71639316 A NZ71639316 A NZ 71639316A NZ 716393 B2 NZ716393 B2 NZ 716393B2
- Authority
- NZ
- New Zealand
- Prior art keywords
- vertical
- clip strip
- profile
- horizontal
- corner
- Prior art date
Links
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 30
- 238000009432 framing Methods 0.000 claims 1
- 101700015817 LAT2 Proteins 0.000 description 8
- 239000000789 fastener Substances 0.000 description 7
- 210000001503 Joints Anatomy 0.000 description 6
- 210000000088 Lip Anatomy 0.000 description 6
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 5
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 5
- 229920001169 thermoplastic Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000004416 thermosoftening plastic Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000001125 extrusion Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000035882 stress Effects 0.000 description 3
- 235000013290 Sagittaria latifolia Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 238000004026 adhesive bonding Methods 0.000 description 2
- 235000015246 common arrowhead Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000003247 radioactive fallout Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000002441 reversible Effects 0.000 description 2
- 241000755266 Kathetostoma giganteum Species 0.000 description 1
- 210000000282 Nails Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 241000270934 Rana catesbeiana Species 0.000 description 1
- 229940035295 Ting Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004075 alteration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011324 bead Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000875 corresponding Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005034 decoration Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003292 glue Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 150000002500 ions Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 230000001788 irregular Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003801 milling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006011 modification reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000414 obstructive Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003319 supportive Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B2220/00—General furniture construction, e.g. fittings
- A47B2220/03—Combined cabinets and wash basins
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B47/00—Cabinets, racks or shelf units, characterised by features related to dismountability or building-up from elements
- A47B47/0075—Flat or flat-like panels connected without frames
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B81/00—Cabinets or racks specially adapted for other particular purposes, e.g. for storing guns or skis
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B95/00—Fittings for furniture
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B96/00—Details of cabinets, racks or shelf units not covered by a single one of groups A47B43/00 - A47B95/00; General details of furniture
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
- A47K3/00—Baths; Douches; Appurtenances therefor
- A47K3/16—Devices for fastening baths to floors or walls; Adjustable bath feet ; Lining panels or attachments therefor
- A47K3/161—Bathtub aprons
-
- 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
- A61H2201/0107—Constructive details modular
-
- 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
-
- 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
- E04H2004/0068—Easily movable or transportable swimming pools made of plastic shells or plastic elements including at least parts of walls and floors
-
- 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
- E04H4/0031—Easily movable or transportable swimming pools with shell type elements
-
- 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
- E04H4/0043—Easily movable or transportable swimming pools mainly made of panels
Abstract
spa cabinet construction system where horizontal panels on the sides are mounted with a horizontal clip strip that mates with horizontal snaps attached to vertical members, and where corner profiles are mounted with a vertical clip strips that mate with vertical snaps.
Description
(12) Granted patent specificaon (19) NZ (11) 716393 (13) B2
(47) Publicaon date: 2.24
(54) Spa cabinet ent
(51) Internaonal Patent Classificaon(s):
F16B 5/06 E04F 13/08 E04F 13/21 E04F 13/24 E04F 13/26 F16B 2/20 A47K 3/34
(22) Filing date: (73) Owner(s):
2016.01.27 BULLFROG INTERNATIONAL, L.C.
(23) Complete specificaon filing date: (74) Contact:
2016.01.27 FPA Patent Attorneys Pty Ltd
(30) Internaonal Priority Data: (72) Inventor(s):
US 14/606232 2015.01.27 HALES, Eric
MCLANE, Mark
(57) Abstract:
A spa cabinet construcon system where horizontal panels on the sides are mounted with a
horizontal clip strip that mates with horizontal snaps aached to vercal members, and where
corner s are mounted with a vercal clip strips that mate with vercal snaps.
716393 B2
Title
SPA CABINET ATTACHMENT
Background
There are a number of ways that the spa industry has designed
paneling and cabinetry, however the use of visible screws or some
form of fastener or latch has long since been considered necessary.
Efforts to cover up some of these screws along with mismatched
joints have taken the form of trim strips that run along the jointed
seam.
Summary
[002a] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a construction
system for attaching side panels to a spa cabinet comprising: a
generally flat side panel with an outside surface providing an
outside flat side surface for the cabinet, and an inside surface; a
horizontal clip strip mounted horizontally within the inside surface of
the side panel; at least two al structural members, each with a
horizontal snap, the horizontal snap configured to reversibly receive
and hold in place the horizontal clip strip providing a lower
attachment that allows movement along the horizontal clip strip; the
horizontal clip strip having a constant cross-sectional e along
its length that allows the lower attachment at any point on the
profile and provides the movement along the horizontal clip strip by
allowing movement of the lower attachment along the profile, and a
receiving groove with an open bottom and positioned to receive an
upper horizontal edge of the side panel and provide an upper
attachment; the side panel maintained in a al plane by the
lower ment and the upper ment ng vertical
movement of the side panel in the vertical plane.
Page 1
[002b] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a construction
system of attaching corners to a spa t comprising: a corner
profile with an outside surface that provides a corner profile e
for the corner of the cabinet, and an inside surface; a al clip
strip mounted ally on the inside surface of the corner profile;
and a vertical snap mounted to g of the cabinet, the vertical
snap configured to ibly receive and hold in place the vertical
clip strip providing an attachment that allows movement along the
vertical clip strip; the vertical clip strip having a constant cross-
sectional profile along its length that allows the attachment at any
point on the cross-sectional profile and provides the movement
along the vertical strip by allowing movement of the attachment
along the cross-sectional profile.
[002c] In a third aspect, the present invention provides a construction
system of attaching side pieces of a spa cabinet comprising: a
cabinet profile piece with an outside surface providing an profile
surface for outside of the cabinet and an inside surface; a clip strip
mounted on the inside surface of the profile piece; and a snap
mounted to the cabinet and configured to reversibly receive and
hold in place the clip strip, the clip strip having a constant ectional
profile along its length that allows the attachment at any
point on the cross-sectional profile and that allows movement of the
snap along the cross-sectional profile.
The present disclosure involves a new cabinet design that es
any e latching system. There are two distinct aspects of this
. One is referred to as the door and panel design or panel
system and refers to the straight vertical sides of the cabinet. The
other is the corner system which refers to structure at the corners
where the vertical sides come together.
Page 1a
The panel system is a combination of four components; (1)
horizontal clip strip, (2) side panel, (3) at least two vertical
s, each with a horizontal snap, and (4) overlapping lip for
receiving groove which can either be the shell of the spa or a
separate extrusion below the shell of the spa.
The corner system comprises a combination of three components:
(1) corner e, (2) vertical clip strip mounted on the inside
surface of the corner profile, and (3) vertical snap mounted to the
cabinet structure. The vertical snap is mounted to the cabinet frame
and provides a snap structure into which the vertical clip strip may
be bly inserted and held in place. The vertical snap can be
Page 1b (followed by page 2)
supported by vertical members on adjacent sides on or near either
side of the corner.
With this design, the panel and corner systems can be snapped into
place with minimal uction effort using simple tools or no tools
at all and t the use of fasteners. This construction is
structurally sound and compliant with UL requirements, while giving
the cabinetry a look and feel that is unlike anything else in the spa
industry. The look is streamlined without any major interruptions in
flow and does not have the spotted fasteners that stand out in
current assembly methods.
The panel and corner systems can both be applied together in the
same cabinet, or each can be applied alone into separate cabinet
uctions. For example, the panel system can be utilized
alone on some existing spa constructions. Some current designs
would benefit from the panel system, while not requiring use of the
corner . The new corner system may be optional, and may
not be used to avoid additional tooling and investment (due, for
example, to a possible different size of the corner profile, as a
corner system may be too large to accommodate the clip
construction).
These two designs can help reduce some of the problems with
warping and stress while providing a sleek design that has not been
created before in the industry. The side panels are locked in
ally but the horizontal clip strip allows the panel to expand or
contract without restriction due to thermal expansion. The corner
system is either spaced far enough away from the side panel to
allow this expansion to take place or it overlaps the side panel and
allows the expansion to occur behind the corner system flange.
This is a significant improvement to a common problem in this
industry.
Page 2
Also contemplated is a system of attaching side panels to a spa
cabinet comprising:
generally flat side panel with an outside surface ing an
outside flat side surface for the cabinet, and an inside surface;
horizontal clip strip mounted ntally within the inside
surface of the side panel;
at least two vertical structural members, each with a
horizontal snap,
the horizontal snap configured to reversibly receive and hold in
place the horizontal clip strip ing a lower ment that
allows movement along the horizontal clip strip; the horizontal clip
strip having a constant cross-sectional profile along its length that
allows the lower attachment at any point on the profile and provides
the movement along the horizontal clip strip by allowing movement
of the lower attachment along the e, and
receiving groove with an open bottom and positioned to
receive an upper horizontal edge of the side panel and provide an
upper attachment;
the side panel maintained in a vertical plane by the lower
attachment and the upper attachment allowing vertical movement of
the side panel in the vertical plane.
Also contemplated is a system for attaching s to a spa
cabinet comprising;
corner profile with an outside surface that provides a corner
profile surface for the corner of the cabinet, and an inside e;
vertical clip strip mounted vertically on the inside surface of
the corner profile; and
vertical snap,
the vertical snap configured to reversibly receive and hold in place
the vertical clip strip providing an attachment that allows movement
along the al clip strip; the vertical clip strip having a constant
Page 3
cross-sectional e along its length that allows the attachment at
any point on the profile and provides the movement along the
vertical strip by allowing movement of the attachment along the
profile.
[0011] Also contemplated is a system for attaching side pieces of a spa
cabinet comprising;
cabinet profile piece with an outside surface providing an
profile surface for outside of the cabinet and an inside surface;
clip strip d on the inside surface of the profile piece;
and
snap configured to reversibly receive and hold in place the
clip strip allows movement along the clip strip, the horizontal snap
configured to ibly e and hold in place the horizontal clip
strip providing a lower attachment that allows nt along the
horizontal clip strip;
the clip strip having a constant cross-sectional profile along its
length that allows the attachment at any point on the profile and
provides the movement along the clip strip by allowing movement of
the lower along the profile.
Brief Description of Drawings
is a perspective view of a side panel with a ntal clip
strip.
is a cross sectional view of a ntal clip strip.
is a perspective view of a vertical member.
[0015] is a perspective view with a cut-away showing an installed
vertical member and side panel showing the lower attachment of
the horizontal clip strip and horizontal snap, and the upper
attachment of the upper edge of the panel in a receiving groove.
Page 4
and 5b are ctive views of alternate receiving groove
constructions.
shows a cross-sectional view of a corner piece with an
attached vertical clip strip.
[0018] is a perspective view showing the inside side of a corner
piece with an attached al clip.
is a ctive view of an assembly of three vertical snaps
supported by two vertical members.
is a top view of the assembly of attached to a corner
vertical snap assembly.
is a perspective view of an assembled cabinet with butt
joints between the corner pieces and side panels.
shows a cross-section of an ate corner piece with an
attached vertical clip strip.
[0023] is a top view of the assembly of with attached corner
piece/vertical snap assembly as in .
is a perspective view of an assembled cabinet with
overlapping corner pieces as in .
Detailed Description
[0025] Panel System - Door and Side Panels
Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, a panel system is illustrated. A side
panel 13 has a horizontal clip strip 11 mounted onto its side. The
horizontal clip strip 11 extends horizontally along most of the length
of the side panel to provide attachment structure at any point along
the horizontal clip strip 11 where the side panel 13 can be mounted,
Page 5
and it also stiffens the side panel 13 by extending to or near to each
end of the side panel 13.
The cross-sectional profile of a horizontal clip strip 11 is constant.
An exemplary horizontal clip strip cross-section is shown in
is generally a C-shape with a backing ure 12 for mounting to
the side panel at the back of the C. Other structures and elements
may also be used. The C-shape and backing structure may be of
one material or of different structures. Also, they may be connected
or attached, or they may be made as one piece. The horizontal clip
strip may be an extruded thermoplastic shape of the constant
cross-section.
s fasteners or mounting methods can be used to mount this
extruded horizontal clip strip on the side panel, such as one of or a
combination of fixing it in place with an adhesive, polymeric welding
methods, mentary or ng locking structures, and
mechanical fasteners such as screws, brads or nails. An integrated
clip/side panel structure can also be extruded or molded. A
ation of gluing or adhering in place and further secured in
place with brads has been found suitable.
[0029] Referring again also to a cal material of the horizontal
clip strip 11 and the side panel 13 is comprised of the same or
different thermoplastic materials, but other materials may be
suitable that can function in the panel system, such as wood, metal,
composites, laminates. Extrusion of thermoplastic is a suitable
method of fabrication the panel from thermoplastic. Suitable
methods e, but are not limited to extrusion, molding,
stamping, milling, or a combination f. The side panel may be
of one piece or of several boards of material assembled into a
panel by, for example, gluing boards together or connecting boards
with a tie member 14.
Page 6
The vertical members are vertical structures, usually of the spa
cabinet frame, that are configured to receive the horizontal clip
strip. These can be members that are also structural supports for
some of the spa components other than the side . An
example of structural vertical members that can be modified to
receive the horizontal clip strip are disclosed in United States
Patent 8,881,321 to Ludlow et al., issued November 11, 2014,
which is hereby incorporated by reference. This patent discloses
support structure for a spa where vertical structural members
extend from a spa base and are structured with grooves for
supporting horizontal splines to mount side panels. In the t
disclosure, these splines with mounted panels can be replaced by
the t panel system.
Referring to a vertical structural member 15 which is
configured with a horizontal snap 19 is shown. The vertical
ural member 15 is a structure that lly spans the vertical
distance, top to bottom, of the sides of a spa or spa endpoints. The
top point may be just below, near, or at the underside of a spa
cover. Alternatively, the vertical structural member 15 may extend
from above the spa cover or the top of the spa cover. The vertical
ural member 15 may extend to a location at or near the base
of the spa base, the ground or a point below the bottom end of the
spa. The vertical structural member 15 may be used to support one
or more of the spa cover, spa chamber access, spa shell, etc.,
however it may be non-supportive.
The horizontal snap 19 ses a hollowed rounded region that
forms a partial cylinder spatially. As shown, the horizontal snap 19
may be located midway along the vertical structural member 15,
however, other locations along the al structural member 15
are envisioned.
Page 7
ing to a cross-section of a spa wall, a vertical member
mounted in a spa base 63 and with an attached side panel 13 is
shown. The horizontal snap 19 is structured to attach to a region or
portion along the ntal clip strip 11. In this manner, side panel
13, which is attached to the vertical structural member 15, may be
attached at an attachment point 21. As shown in the
horizontal clip strip 11 has been pushed into the horizontal snap 19
to interlock them together.
Referring also to and the horizontal clip strip 11 has
a “C-clip” cross-sectional area with a base 70 and two curved arms
71 that extend initially apart from each other and then converging
toward each other to an g 73 between their ends 75. The
arms are cally resilient so that the ends 75 of the arms 71 can
be forced to narrow the width of the clip to allow insertion into the
opening 81 of the horizontal snap 19, and after insertion elastically
return to hold into, or engage, the undercut 83 of the horizontal
snap 19. Outer surface of arms 71 rest against exterior surface of
undercut 83 of horizontal snap 19. The horizontal snap 19 is
structured to receive the ends 75 of the horizontal clip strip 11 and
upon application of force at the base of the horizontal clip strip 11
has opposing ramp or cam surfaces 85 that compress the ends and
direct same into and through an opening which may be a partial
cylinder in volume, but which may be a different space of volume.
After the insertion of the horizontal clip strip 11, the elastic force of
the clip and ures that interlock the horizontal clip strip 11 and
the horizontal snap 19 lock the horizontal clip strip 11 and
ntal snap 19 together.
Note that the horizontal clip strip 11 may be removed from the
horizontal snap 19 by physically or otherwise pulling the horizontal
clip strip 11 away from the ntal snap 19. Application of force
Page 8
may be d on the side panel 13 attached to the horizontal clip
strip 11 to achieve agement. Note that removal may include
squeezing the arms 75 of the horizontal clip strip 11 together to
reduce the amount of force needed to remove the cam engagement
between the horizontal clip strip 11 and the horizontal snap 19.
A main consideration in the construction of the horizontal clip strip
11 and the horizontal snap 19 is that they resist vertical forces, and
forces that would part their locked tion, while still allowing
movement or travel of the horizontal clip strip 11 through the
horizontal snap 19 along the horizontal axes of the horizontal clip
strip 11 and horizontal snap 19. As described below, this has the
age of a simple reversible installation and compensation for
thermal ion. Basically, an attachment system where the two
attaching structures have constant cross-section around a
horizontal axis, and where the horizontal clip strip 11 has structure
along its length to fix to the side panel is required.
As in the illustrated example, a suitable attachment is where one
structure has elastically resilient member/members that can be
compressed or deformed into a rigid structure, and locked as the
resilient members at least partially return to their original position. In
addition to the horizontal clip strip 11 with C-clip shape and resilient
members/rigid cavity configuration that is illustrated, other locking
designs may be le, such as a rigid arrow-head or bead
locking with resilient cavity combination. In the illustrated example,
the C-clip shape may be also modified to a resilient arrow-head
configuration. In addition, the resilient C-cross-section can be
mounted on or incorporated into the vertical member and the
horizontal clip strip 11 having a rigid cavity cross-section.
For each side panel in a tional square or rectangular cabinet
shape, at least two vertical members 15 with incorporated
Page 9
horizontal snaps 19 are required to secure the side panel to at least
two lower attachment points 21. Contemplated, for example, are
three or four vertical members for a side panel; four may be
particularly suitable on the side with widely spaced vertical
members for access to the pump and accessory r.
While side panels will frequently extend the length of a spa cabinet
side, there may be constructions where short segments may be
used that require only one lower attachment to a horizontal clip strip
11. For e, a te, very short segment can be mounted
onto a vertical member that has been mounted on the tangent line
of the corner curve. Such a side panel may be straight, or ed
similar to a corner profile described below, and be used in a corner
or on part of a straight side as a structural or decorative element.
It is plated that the present panel system be applied to other
spa constructions, other than that illustrated. This requires suitably
positioned members that can be formed or can mount the horizontal
snap with the suitable locking snap structure. Although the
members are shown as vertical members, they may instead be
horizontal members at the suitable height.
[0041] lly, minimal alteration to an existing structural member of the
cabinet frame is ed to provide a snap. The vertical snaps are
thereby easily incorporated into an existing design, and since the
horizontal clip strip is fixed to the side panel, no added horizontal
support ures are required on the spa frame.
[0042] Referring to there is a receiving groove 23 within which the
upper edge of the side panel 13 is inserted during assembly to
provide an upper attachment 29. The receiving groove 23 may be
provided, for example, by overhanging the lip or edge of the spa
shell over the top of the cabinet or by a separate structure 25 above
Page 10
the side panel 13. The receiving groove 23 is configured with a
downwardly facing opening that is sized to receive a top edge of a
side panel 13. Once in the receiving groove, the top edge is
restrained from movement where the panel would fall out and away
from the side. However, it is not tightly held which allows the side
panel to float vertically and horizontally along the axis of the
receiving groove 23.
With the side panel 13 d, the lower attachment 21 bears
most of the weight of the side panel 13 and allows horizontal travel
of the horizontal clip strip 11 through the horizontal snap 19, while
the upper attachment 29 prevents a horizontal nt that
would let the panel fall out. However, vertical movement provided in
the receiving groove and horizontal nt provided along axes
of the groove and clip allow the panel to contract and expand
without stressing the panel to cause buckling or warping.
In contrast to conventional construction where panels are fixed at
several , the integrity and appearance of the cabinet is
ensured under wide temperature fluctuations by allowing vertical
and horizontal movement in the plane of the side panel. Such a
structural uration relieves stresses that otherwise would warp,
twist or tension the side panel. Not only is this beneficial for
structural integrity, but it also provides and maintains the aesthetics
and outward appearance of a spa.
The horizontal clip strip 11 also acts as a support bracket g
the almost the full length of the side panel giving added strength to
prevent warping or twisting. Such a bracket would normally interfere
with the vertical members.
Page 11
The receiving groove 23 can be provided by any suitable structure,
such as a separate structure 25 extending along the outer top edge
of the spa cabinet as illustrated in
Referring to and , details of alternate receiving
groove 23 configurations are shown. In , an overhanging
edge or lip 17 of the spa shell can be used to form the receiving
groove 23. As shown in , the receiving groove 23 may also
be in ting structure 25 spaced below the top of the cabinet
with a horizontal band 26 (e.g., for decoration or lighting) between
the edge of the spa shell 17 and the receiving groove 23.
The panel system is y to provide the exterior flat sides of the
spa cabinet. The panel system can be used for any selected side or
sides of the cabinet or for all four sides of the cabinet. The side
panel may be a panel that is flexible such that it wraps around part
of the spa cavity or the entire spa cavity. The side panel with
ed horizontal clip strip or strips to attach to corresponding
vertical members may include folds, bends, or joints that promote
wrapping around the spa cavity.
In conventional prior-art spa construction, one side of a spa may
include a separate removable panel for access to a pump and
accessory chamber. With the current design, the entire side panel
and horizontal clip strip is removable and reinstallable without
expending any attachment hardware or making rsible
s. Since the whole panel can be removed for access, an
additional access opening in the side panel for pump and chamber
access is not required.
To assemble a spa cabinet with the panel , the side wall is
positioned over the vertical members with the upper edge of the
side panel slipped or ed into the receiving groove. The side
Page 12
panel position is adjusted to align the horizontal clip strip with the
horizontal snaps, and the horizontal clip strip is pushed into each of
the horizontal snaps to lock them together. After the horizontal clip
strip is secured in all of the horizontal snaps, side panel may be
adjusted horizontally to center it relative to the spa. The side panel
is thereby secured at its upper edge by the ing groove, and
by the horizontal clip strip on the lower half of the panel. No other
assembly is required. After the panel system is assembled, corner
structures, such as of the corner system, can be assembled on the
spa.
The panel system has several advantages:
(1) Reversible assembly without fasteners to create a rigid
structure,
(2) Structure to prevent warping that can easily occur in the
prior-art construction where several screws are used, especially
warping of the panel across a wide unsupported space, such as
across the entry to the pump chamber where vertical members are
fewer in number or are widely spaced.
(3) ment of the side panel more y and prevent
relative movement to vertical s across the full length of the
panel along the horizontal clip strip, as opposed to conventional
systems where screws on the outer edge do little or g for
holding the middle of the panel tight.
(4) Compensation for thermal expansion and contraction of
the side panel, which sets in when the spa is exposed to hot or cold
outdoor conditions. This is in contrast to a typical conventional
panel with a screwed locked-in design that either warps or causes
tension in the assembly. With the present panel system using a
horizontal clip and snap attachment a side panel is allowed to freely
transit horizontally along the axis of the ntal clip strip t
obstruction. In addition, the top edge of the side panel can move in
Page 13
the receiving groove in se to thermal changes. Accordingly,
this mounting system does not create the situation that would cause
warping or n.
A side panel together with its horizontal clip strip can simply be
removed by first removing an adjacent corner, if necessary to free
the edge. One then grabs the side of the panel near where the
horizontal clip strip is attached, and physically pulls the horizontal
clip out of the horizontal snaps in the vertical members
consecutively down the length of the panel until it is completely
ed. Then the side panel slides downward out of the receiving
groove and is removed.
Corner System
The corner system is constructed similar to the panel system. It
comprises (1) corner profile, (2) a vertical clip ucted
essentially the same as the horizontal clip, but disposed ally,
and (3) vertical snap similar in construction to the horizontal snap
for receiving the vertical clip. The vertical clip has the same crosssection
as the horizontal clip strip, and the vertical snap has the
same section as the horizontal snap. In an alternate
configuration, the cross-sections can be of a different size or
configuration, but must function the same as the ntal clip and
snap, but be placed on a vertical axis. Alternate cross-section as
discussed above for the horizontal clip and snap, may be suitable.
The primary difference is that the moving or traveling axis of the
attachment assembly in corner system is in a vertical direction.
In the illustrated example, the corner profile defines a 90 degree
corner for a square or rectangular spa cabinet. It is plated
that the corner profile may be of other angles for fabrication of
cabinets of other shapes, such as regular or irregular polygons
Page 14
having 3 or more sides, or even star-shaped. Note that the corner
profile may be rounded to form rounded sides and all kinds of
shapes, including circular and oblong shapes.
The angle may be “straight” or 180 s. Such a “corner” piece
may be associated with some structural component or a decorative
element along a straight side of the spa
Referring to a cross sectional view of corner profile 51 and
vertical clip strip 57 is shown. The corner profile 51 has a curved
cross-section with an outside surface 53 defining a curved exterior
surface of the t, and an inside surface 55. Referring also to
a vertical clip strip 57 is mounted onto the inside surface 55,
and extends the whole or nearly the length of the corner e 51.
Note that the vertical clip strip 57, in contrast to the horizontal clip
strip 11, extends in a vertical direction. Although directions
discussed refer to vertical and horizontal directions, directions may
be angular and they may vary at distances.
The vertical clip strip 57 may be r in size and shape to
horizontal clip strip 11, however sizes and shapes may vary. The C-
shape formed by the al clip strip 57 is at a 90 degree angle to
the C-shape formed by the horizontal clip strip 11. The angles
formed, however, may be less than or more than 90 degrees.
Referring also to and a snap system with two or more
vertical snaps 59 are located vertically along a vertical member.
The vertical snaps 59 are designed to push together and lock to the
al clip 57 strip in the same manner as the above ntal clip
strip and the horizontal snap. The corner profile 51 when so
mounted can transport vertically through the vertical snaps 59, thus
helping to prevent stresses that might tension or warp the corner
profile 51.
Page 15
Various fastening s to mount the vertical clip strip to the
corner profile can be the same as for the horizontal clip strip
attachment to the side panel. A suitable method is to glue in place
and further securing the vertical clip strip using brads.
[0062] In the illustrated exemplary construction, the corner system
comprises three injection molded parts 61 that are between two
vertical s 15 on either side of a corner. Each injection
molded part 61 has a vertical snap 59 and supports the corner
profile 51 by locking to the vertical clip strip 57. The combined two
vertical members 15 both together supporting the injection molded
parts 51 are installed in a spa base 63 in a similar way as other
vertical s, but near the corner as illustrated in and 9.
The corner assembly of the corner profile 51 and vertical clip strip
57 is slipped up under or butted up against the ure at the top
of the cabinet side, which may be, for example, an extension of
receiving groove structure or an nging lip of the spa shell. It
is not required to in the top of the corner piece from falling
out, so no holding lip or groove is required for this purpose. The
vertical clip strip is then forced into the three vertical snaps. The
vertical clip strip can also acts as a stop on the base to keep the
corner from slipping downward. While the corner profile 51 overlaps
the base 63 of the spa, the vertical clip strip 57 protrudes into the
spa such that it hits the upper lip of the base 63, preventing the
corner from slipping downward.
[0064] The corner assembly may be load-bearing or non-load-bearing. For
e, the corner assembly may be assembled with a top portion
underneath the shell of the spa top or cover so as to provide
support to the spa top or cover. Other support may be provided.
Page 16
Removing the corner is done by slipping a small lever, like a flathead
screwdriver, eath the corner profile and prying the
vertical clip strip out of the lowest vertical snap. Once this is done
the corner profile with vertical clip strip can be physically pulled off
of the spa with a little effort. Alternatively, however, no tools may be
needed to remove the corner profile and remove the vertical clip
strip. Physical force may simply be used.
Referring to , the assembled t shows spa base 63,
the side panels 13, and the corner profiles 51, with edges of the
side panels adjacent in a butt joint to the edges of the corner
profiles 51 in a butt joint 65. (See also With this construction
the edges of the side panels are adjacent to the edges of the corner
profile, spaced adjacent to each other such that there is a small gap
at the joints.
[0067] In an alternate construction, shown in Figures 11, 12 and 13, the
corner profile 51 is configured so that its edges are tapered and
extend over a side panel 13 g an overlapping joint 66 with the
side panels. This construction avoids a visible gap between the side
panels 13 and the corner profiles 51. It also allows for less precision
in overall assembly. In addition, the corner es 51 must be
removed before removal of a side panel 13. The logy all
stays the same; this is just a second approach to the corner e.
In either construction, the visual presentation of the cabinet is clean
with - smooth joint free surfaces and free from any marks or
indication of screws or other fasteners. In the case of the latter
illustrated in , no seams at the corners are apparent. This
design may be advantageous in improving the aesthetic and overall
streamline effect on the spa. Furthermore, it may hide the
expansion from the spa panels.
Page 17
While this invention has been described with reference to certain
ic embodiments and examples, it will be recognized by those
skilled in the art that many variations are possible t departing
from the scope and spirit of this invention, and that the invention, as
described by the claims, is intended to cover all changes and
modifications of the invention which do not depart from the spirit of
the invention.
Page 18
1003592558
Claims (14)
1. A construction system for attaching side panels to a spa cabinet comprising: 5 a generally flat side panel with an outside surface providing an outside flat side e for the cabinet, and an inside surface; a horizontal clip strip d horizontally within the inside surface of the side panel; at least two vertical structural members, each with a horizontal 10 snap, the horizontal snap ured to reversibly receive and hold in place the horizontal clip strip providing a lower attachment that allows nt along the horizontal clip strip; the horizontal clip strip having a constant cross-sectional profile along its length that allows the lower ment at 15 any point on the profile and provides the movement along the horizontal clip strip by allowing movement of the lower attachment along the profile, a receiving groove with an open bottom and positioned to receive an upper horizontal edge of the side panel and provide an upper 20 attachment; the side panel maintained in a vertical plane by the lower attachment and the upper attachment allowing vertical movement of the side panel in the vertical plane. Page 19 1003592558
2. A construction system of attaching corners to a spa t comprising: a corner profile with an outside surface that provides a corner profile surface for the corner of the cabinet, and an inside surface; 5 a vertical clip strip mounted vertically on the inside surface of the corner profile; and a vertical snap mounted to framing of the cabinet, the vertical snap configured to reversibly receive and hold in place the vertical clip strip providing an ment that allows movement along the 10 vertical clip strip; the vertical clip strip having a constant cross-sectional profile along its length that allows the attachment at any point on the cross-sectional e and provides the movement along the vertical strip by ng movement of the attachment along the cross-sectional profile.
3. The construction system as in Claim 1 additionally 15 sing a corner profile with an outside surface providing a corner profile surface for the corner of the cabinet and an inside surface; a vertical clip strip mounted vertically on an inside surface of the corner profile; and 20 a vertical snap, the vertical snap configured to reversibly receive and hold in place the vertical clip strip providing an ment that allows movement along the vertical clip strip; the vertical clip strip having a constant cross-sectional profile along its vertical length that allows the attachment at any point on 25 the e and provides the movement along the vertical strip by allowing movement of the ment along the profile.
4. The construction as in Claim 3 wherein both the corner profile and the side panel have vertical side edges that that are spaced adjacent to each other. 30
5. The construction system as in Claim 3 wherein the corner profile has a vertical side edge that overlies the surface of the side panel. Page 20 2558
6. The construction system as in Claim 5 wherein the vertical side edge of the corner profile is tapered.
7. The construction system as in Claim 1 n the crosssectional profile of the horizontal clip strip is generally C-shaped with 5 structure to mount to the side panels, and with two resilient arms that extend initially apart from each other and then converging toward each other to an opening between their ends, and the cross-section of the horizontal snap is a rigid cavity with an opening to e the ends of the horizontal clip strip and lock the resilient clips in 10 the cavity.
8. The construction system as in Claim 2 wherein the crosssectional profile of the vertical clip strip is generally C-shaped with structure to mount to the corner profile, and with two resilient arms that extend initially apart from each other and then converging toward each 15 other to an g between their ends, and the cross-section of the vertical snap is a rigid cavity with an opening to receive the ends of the vertical clip strip and lock the resilient clips in the
9. The construction system as in Claim 3 wherein the vertical 20 clip strip and the horizontal clip strip have the same cross-sectional profile.
10. A construction system of attaching side pieces of a spa cabinet comprising: a cabinet profile piece with an outside surface providing an profile surface for outside of the cabinet and an inside surface; 25 a clip strip mounted on the inside surface of the profile piece; and a snap mounted to the cabinet and configured to reversibly receive and hold in place the clip strip, the clip strip having a constant cross-sectional profile along its length that allows the ment at any point on the cross-sectional profile and that 30 allows movement of the snap along the sectional profile. Page 21 1003592558
11. The construction system as in Claim 10 n the spa t has a rectangular shape, and the cabinet profile piece is a flat panel, or a corner profile.
12. The construction system as in Claim 10 wherein the spa 5 cabinet is a polygonal shape, and the outer surface of the cabinet profile piece has a straight surface or an angled surface.
13. The construction system as in Claim 10 wherein the clip strip is mounted vertically, or horizontally.
14. The construction system as in Claim 10 wherein the clip strip 10 is mounted at a non-vertical or non-horizontal angle. Page 22
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/606,232 US9713571B2 (en) | 2015-01-27 | 2015-01-27 | Spa cabinet attachment |
US14/606232 | 2015-01-27 |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
NZ716393A NZ716393A (en) | 2021-08-27 |
NZ716393B2 true NZ716393B2 (en) | 2021-11-30 |
Family
ID=
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