NZ751820A - Modular Container Assembly for a Pool and Method of Contruction - Google Patents

Abstract

modular support assembly 1 to support a pool liner 2 for a swimming pool, which is adapted be assembled from components and to be located above or below ground 6. The modular support assembly 1 includes at least the following components of a frame support structure 32 and ?oor structure 36, which are connected together such that the frame support structure 32 supports the pool liner 2 so that the components together form an open top container having a recess space 114 to support a pool liner 2 to hold ?uid therein to form the pool. The frame support structure 32 includes elongate members connected together forming interconnected horizontal frame(s) and transverse vertical frame(s). The horizontal frames include a perimeter ring frame assembly 94 and the transverse vertical frame include column members 80 interconnected with horizontal members 82 to form transverse vertical frames. The horizontal frames positioned and constructed to surround and support the pool liner 2. The frame support structure 32 includes a side cradle frame 220 located on the side 88 or length dimension of the pool 4, which is interconnected with the horizontal frame and the transverse frame. The ?oor structure 36 provides the base and includes a lower ?oor frame structure 38 supported by a substrate 8 (ground 6, base course or slab 10) and upper planar ?oor panel member(s) 40 to support the pool liner 2 there on. A method of assembly is also included.

Description

Modular Container lyfor a Pool and Method of Construction The invention s to a modular container assembly for a pool for use in ntial, industrial, schools and commercial situations and to a method of construction. The invention is directed particularly but not solely towards a modular support assembly for a pool which is especially useful for tight spatial requirements that may or may not have an internal ay.

The word ‘container’ is not being used in connection to ort or shipping containers but is merely a descriptive word to describe a shape that is able to contain a pool liner and/or water.

Background of Invention Existing pools are constructed by specialists which require extensive excavations and construction expertise and also requiring special design to meet strength requirements in terms of soil and seismic load requirements as a well meeting drainage and safety ements.

Central government and local Government, also have regulatory requirements with appropriate official fees. Therefore existing pools are complicated to build taking a long time to receive regulatory approval and time to construct.

All of these factors combine to cantly increase the cost of installing such a pool.

Some premade pools exist but these can be still be expensive to construct or form.

In this specification unless the contrary is expressly stated, where a document, act or item of knowledge is referred to or discussed, this nce or discussion is not an admission that the document, act or item of knowledge or any combination thereof was at the priority date, publicly ble, known to the public, part of common general knowledge; or known to be relevant to an attempt to solve any problem with which this specification is concerned.

G:\196742NZA COMP SPEC llDec2018 850 MCG/«fi author>>l Object of the Invention It is an object of the invention to provide an improved modular support assembly for a pool and method of construction that ameliorates some of the disadvantages and limitations of the known art or at least provide the public with a useful choice.

Summary of Invention Accordingly in one aspect the invention consists in a modular support assembly 1 to support a pool liner 2 to contain fluid therein for a pool 4, and said assembly is adapted be assembled from components and to be located above or below ground 6, the pool 4 has sides 12 defining a width or transverse dimension l4 and ends 16 g a length or longitudinal ion 18 ing a recess space 20 for the pool of fluid being water, and the r support assembly 1 includes a shape of a ner having sides and a base with a recess space in between, wherein the modular support assembly 1 includes at least the following components of a frame support structure 32 and floor structure 36, which are connected together such that the frame support structure 32 ts the pool liner 2 so that the components er form an open top container having a recess space 114 to support a pool liner 2 to hold fluid therein to 2O form the pool, wherein the frame support structure 32 includes elongate members connected together forming or being formed from interconnected horizontal s) and transverse vertical frame(s), wherein the horizontal frames include a perimeter ring frame assembly 94 and the transverse vertical frame includes column members 80 interconnected with horizontal s 82 to form transverse al frames and the horizontal frames to surround and support the pool liner 2, wherein the frame support structure 32 includes a side cradle frame 220 located on the side 88 or length dimension of the pool 4, which is interconnected with the horizontal frame and the transverse frame whereby the side cradle frame 220 is interconnected by suitable fixing and/0r fastening, wherein, the floor structure 36 provides the base and es a lower floor frame structure 38 supported by a substrate 8 (ground 6, base course or slab 10) and upper planar floor panel memberts) 40 to support the pool liner 2 there on.

G:\l96742NZA COMP SPEC 11Dec2018 850 MCG/«fi author>>/ Preferably the modular support assembly 1 includes a panel support structure 30 which forms part of the sides of the ly 1 being shaped and constructed to abut an outside of the frame support structure 32 wherein a recess space 42 is created there between wherein an insulation layer 44 is located in recessed space 42 between the pool liner 2 and panel support structure 30 and the panel support structure 30 provides part of the sides of the assembly and includes a modular wall structure 34 comprising interconnected wall panels.

Preferably, a deck 204 and stairs 206 are attached to and supported by the frame support structure 32 at one end of the modular support assembly 1.

Preferably, an access—way 210 or 212 is provided in at least one side or end of the pool support structure 30 wherein there are two access ways 210, 212 located on sides opposite each other.

Preferably, the access—way 210, 212 is a hinged door sing a frame like structure.

Preferably, the access way 210, 212 are provided at one end of the walls of the panel support structure 3 0.

Alternatively, the access way 210, 212 are provided in the middle of the walls of the panel t structure 30. ably the horizontal frame forms a perimeter ring frame assembly 94 located at and around a top perimeter of the pool or modular support assembly for a pool which are joined to the transverse frames to provide support for the deck 204 and stairs 206. ably, the frame support structure 32 abuts and connects to one side of the r wall structures 34.

The side cradle frame 220 comprises an overall frame shape forming ed sides extending furthermost at a bottom, which is made up of inclined al elongate members 222, substantially horizontal strut members 224 and side rail members 226.

G:\196742NZA COMP SPEC llDec2018 850 MCG/«fi author»/ Preferably the ed vertical elongate members 222 are connected at their upper portion to an upper inside portion of the column members 80 on the sides 88 and at their lower portion being connected to the lower base frame 38 wherein there are several members 222 spaced along the length of the pool.

Preferably the strut members 224 are elongate members that e lateral support to the sides of the pool liner 2 and to the inclined vertical elongate members 222, strut members 224 are varied in length and angle of orientation depending on the length 18, size or volume of the pool 4 and their vertical position with respect to the slope of the inclined vertical elongate members 222 whereby strut members 224 extend from and are supported by the column members 80 (spaced along the length of the pool) from one end to de inwardly towards the pool liner 2 to end at a distal end, and the distal end of strut members 224 are capped by side rails 226 which extend substantially ntally.

Preferably on one or each side of the pool, there can be two separate rows of spaced struts 224 thereby requiring two side rail members 226.

Preferably lower base frame 38 is sitting and supported on compacted hardfill and the lower base frame 38 comprises two longitudinal outer beams 230 with first cross s 232 spanning there between.

Preferably the lower base frame 38 includes extra longitudinal members 234 as well as the first cross members 232, which comprise flat strip elongate members which are laid over the top of the first cross members 232, the lower base frame 38 includes second cross members which are also box ns similar sections to the box sections of columns 80 which are end connected (eg welded) to a bottom end of s 80 which are lapped on top of and bolted to cross s 232.

Preferably perimeter ring frame 94 includes RHS bolted to the top and side of columns 80, . and the columns 80 at one end of the pool abutting the decked area are larger in section than the columns 80 in the rest of the pool and can be for example 65x65x3mm and s at the ends of the pool can be 65x35x3 G:\196742NZA COMP SPEC IlDec2018 850 MCG/«fi author»/ Alternatively, the perimeter beam 94 includes an angle support 236 underneath the perimeter beam 94.

Preferably, a hand rail ure 214 is provided to upwardly protrude and be connected on top of the perimeter ring frame 94 or peripherally on the deck.

Preferably, the pool liner 2 is provided in the middle of the length 18 of the pool.

Alternatively, the pool liner 2 is provided at one end of the pool or pool support ure.

Preferably, the modular wall structure 34 is formed of at least one planar modular wall panel structure which include edge joining means enabling several wall panel structures to be bly connected to each other. ably, the modular wall structures 34 include end walls and side walls.

Preferably, the pool 4 or modular support assembly for a pool 1 is mounted and or supported by a base ing a base material 3 wherein the base material is a suitably compacted hardfill of a n thickness and grade.

Accordingly, in another aspect the ion consists in a method of construction of a modular support assembly 1 for a pool 4, a modular support assembly 1 to support a pool liner 2 to contain fluid therein for a pool 4, and said which is adapted be assembled from components and to be located above or below ground 6, the pool 4 has sides 12 g a width or transverse dimension 14 and ends 16 defining a length or longitudinal dimension 18 including a recess space 20 for the pool of fluid being water, and the modular support assembly 1 includes a shape of a container having sides and a base with a recess space in between, wherein the modular support assembly 1 includes at least the following ents of a frame support structure 32 and floor structure 36, which are connected together such that the frame t structure 32 supports the pool liner 2 so that the components together form an G:\196742NZA COMP SPEC 11Dec2018 850 MCG/«fi author»/ open top container having a recess space 114 to support a pool liner 2 to hold fluid therein to form the pool, wherein the frame support structure 32 es elongate members connected er forming or being formed from interconnected horizontal frame(s) and transverse vertical frame(s), wherein the horizontal frames include a perimeter ring frame assembly 94 and the transverse vertical frame includes column members 80 interconnected with horizontal members 82 to form transverse vertical frames and the horizontal frames to surround and t the pool liner 2, wherein the frame support structure 32 includes a side cradle frame 220 located on the side 88 or length dimension of the pool 4, which is interconnected with the horizontal frame and the transverse frame whereby the side cradle frame 220 is interconnected by suitable fixing and/or fastening, wherein the floor structure 36 provides the base and includes a lower floor frame structure 38 supported by a ate 8 (ground 6, base course or slab 10) and upper planar floor panel member(s) 40 to support the pool liner 2 there on, wherein the method includes the ing steps of: 1. Prepare the floor structure 36 by first placing a lower frame structure 38 on top of a support surface of the basecoarse/hard fill or substrate. 2. Laying an upper floor panel structure 40 over and on top of the lower frame ure 3 8; 3. Prepare frame support structure 32 by placing column members 80 vertically spaced around an e of the modular wall structures 34 by abutting to outer wall e 136 of modular wall structure 34; 4. Connect column members 80 to outer wall surface 136 of modular wall ure 34; . Form transverse vertical frame structures as rectangular frames to match the cross nal area of the pool; 6. Place horizontal beam members 82 on top of all end faces of modular wall structures 34 of the pool support structure and/or of column members 80 and on top of transverse frame structures, to form the perimeter ring frame structure 94; 7. Connect beam members 82 to column members 80 and the perimeter ring frame structure 94 to the transverse frame structures to form the modular support ly for a pool; G:\196742NZA COMP SPEC 11Dec2018 850 MCG/«fi author»/ 8. Erect side cradle frame 220 inside of the already. erected parts of the frame support structure forming recessed space 37 for the pool liner 2; 9. Insert pool liner in recessed space 37 by resting on cradle frame 220 Preferably after erecting the frame support structure 32, place and erect modular wall structures 34 having inner wall e 134, by connecting at a lower end 140 of the modular wall structure 34 to abut inner surface 122 of a perimeter edge of upper floor panel 40.

Preferably place insulation layer 44 inside one side of the modular wall panel ures 34 by abutting inner wall e 134 of the modular wall structures 34; Preferably after placing insulation layer 44, place and insert pool liner 2 over insulation layer 44 and floor structure 36 to bed there against and seal there n.

Preferably after placing liner 2, install pool equipment at end of pool; Preferably then attach side doors 210 for access to pool ent; Preferably insert stairs 206 and gate 210, 212; Preferably lay deck 204 on frame support structure 32; Preferably insert and affix hand rail structure 214 to form the pool; Preferably then prepare a substrate, by removing top soil; ably laying and then compacting a base material 3 as a bedding material; Preferably lift modular support assembly 2 for a pool with pool liner on to the prepared base al 3.

Preferably then fill pool liner 2 with water.

To those skilled in the art to which the invention relates, many changes in construction and widely differing embodiments and application of the invention will suggest themselves without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the ed claims. The disclosures and the descriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be limiting.

G:\196742NZA COMP SPEC 11Dec2018 850 MCG/«fi author»/ Brief Description The invention will now be described, by way of example only, by reference to the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 is a perspective View of the modular support assembly for a pool of the present invention and pool located inside the container.

Figure 2 is an upper ctive View of the components of the modular support assembly for a pool in exploded form.

Figure 3 is an upper perspective View of the floor frame of the modular support assembly for a pool.

Figure 4 is atop plan of the floor of figure 3.

Figure 5 is a cross section upper top View of the modular support assembly for a pool showing positions of transverse views 7—7, 8-8 and 9—9.

Figure 6 is a cross section middle top View of the modular support assembly for a pool g positions of transverse views 7—7, 8—8 and 9—9.

Figure 7 is a side cross sectional View hwise) of the pool including the modular support assembly for a pool of the present invention~ see figures 5 and 6 for location of this cross section.

Figure 8 a transverse or middle end cross sectional view 8—8 of a left end of the pool of figure 7—— see figures 5 and 6 for location of cross sections.

Figure 9 a transverse or end cross sectional View 9—9 of the right end (ie the deck end) of the pool of figure 7 — see figures 5 and 6 for location of cross ns.

Figure 10 a side View of the pool and modular support assembly for a pool.

Figure 11 is an end view of the pool and modular support assembly for a pool.

Figure 12 is r side view of the modular support assembly for a pool with a handrail located on top of at least one end over the deck and stairs Figure 13 is an end of the modular support ly for a pool of figure 12.

Figure 14 is a side View of r support assembly for a pool with two erses frames.

G:\l96742NZA COMP SPEC llDec2018 850 MCG/«fi author>>l Figure 15 is a first cross sectional view of the modular support assembly for a pool of figure Figure 16 is a second cross sectional view of the modular support assembly for a pool of figure 14.

Figure 17 is a third cross sectional view of the modular support assembly for a pool of figure Figure 18 is a top plan View of the modular support assembly for a pool without the floor panels Figure 19 is a first end View of the modular support assembly for a pool Figure 20 is a second end view of the modular support assembly for a pool Figure 21 is a first side View of the modular support assembly for a pool Figure 22 is another side View of the modular support assembly for a pool Figure 23 is a cross sectional end View of the cradle at the end distal to the deck Figure 24 is a cross sectional end view of the cradle looking towards the deck end Figure 25 is a side View of the lower base frame and cradle of frame support structure 32 Figure 26 is a top plan View of the lower base frame Figure 27 is copy of a photograph of the panel t structure ption of Drawings The following description will be the invention in relation to preferred embodiments of the invention, namely a r support assembly 1 for a pool 4 for a pool and method of uction. The invention is in no way limited to these prefen'ed embodiments as they are G:\196742NZA COMP SPEC 11Dec2018 850 MCG/«fi author>>l purely to exemplify the invention only and that possible variations and modifications would be readily apparent Without departing from the scope of the invention.

As shown in Figures 1—27 modular support ly 1 for a pool 4 is shaped and designed to hold and support at least one pool liner 2 to form a pool 4. The modular support assembly 1 is constructed and adapted to support a pool of water in the pool liner, which is adapted be assembled fi'om components and to be located above or below ground 6 on or in a substrate 8. The substrate 8 can include any supporting structure or surface ing a base structure comprising for example at least one compacted hard—fill or base—coarse 10 layer and/or concrete pad.

The pool 4 has sides 12 defining a width or transverse dimension l4 and ends 16 defining a length or longitudinal dimension 18 including a recess space 20 for the pool of water.

The modular support assembly 1 for a pool 4 includes the following components of a panel support structure 30, a frame support structure 32, which connected together can be mounted on the base structure to support a pool of water in the pool liner 2 therein to form the pool 4.

The pool 4 and modular support assembly 1 have sides 22, ends 24 and base 26.

The panel support structure 30 includes interconnected modular wall structures 34 and ted floor structure 36 being operatively joined to each together to form an open top container having a recess 37 therein n the floor structure 36 includes a lower base frame 38 and upper planar panel member 40 to support the pool liner 2 there on.

There is an enclosed perimeter recessed space 42 between the pool liner 2 and panel t structure 30 which is used to n and confine or sandwich there between a suitable insulating material as used in the form of an insulation layer 44. The panel support structure and frame support structure 32 are each shaped in overall shape in this example as being a rectangular structure to define a length or longitudinal ion 46 between ends 48 and sides 50 n the ends 48 defining a width or transverse dimension 52.

The base ure 6 is a specially designed bedding material (eg base—course or ll) having specific physical teristics, a certain designed thickness 54 and outer e 56, G:\l96742NZA COMP SPEC llDec2018 850 MCG/«fi author»/ supported underneath by the substrate 8. Substrate 8 can be formed as part of a ground or floor structure eg a concrete pad.

Pool liner 2 is formed as a water impermeable material being a planar member having a thickness 60, an inner surface 62 and outer surface 64 forming a recess 66 to be able to retain a fluid therein, with a length 68, width 70 and height 72. Height 72 is an ive height for the contained fluid ie water and the pool liner 2 extends above this height to include in one option an up and over curved top edge portion 72a to give a top edge height 72b. Insulation layer 44 is a layer of material of g ess 40, having an outer surface 42 and an inner e 45.

The frame support structure 32 is connected and supported by and ts panel support structure 30 to provide support for any external structures.

The frame support ure 32 includes elongate members connected or joined together g a horizontal frame and at least one transverse al frame. Each elongate member has is adapted to be able to be joined or connected together with each other and to the panel support structure 30 by suitable connection means 92 (eg welding or bolting), to provide structural support as a frame thereto.

The horizontal frame is formed and ted of transverse beams and longitudinal beams into a perimeter ring frame ly 94 having a width 96, and length 98 extending around the top perimeter of the pool liner 2. The horizontal frame also has extra transverse beams located at one end to provide support for other structures.

The transverse vertical frames (see figures 2, 9, 14—17), comprise column members 80 and horizontal beam members 82 which are elongate members having any suitable cross section (eg RHS — Rectangular Hollow Section of 100x50x6mm section) defining a shape having a length, 84 between ends 86 and sides 88 defining a ess 90. include further column members 80 connected to horizontal members 82 as part of the extra transverse beams of the perimeter ring frame as shown in figure 9 by any suitable connection (eg welding or bolts) to form an overall shape or area similar to a transverse cross sectional area of the pool. In this example each wall frame can have a horizontal top rail 100 consisting of part of the G:\196742NZA COMP SPEC 11Dec2018 850 MCG/«fi author>>l perimeter ring assembly and at least one further horizontal middle rail 102 oriented parallel with the top rail member 100 and column members 80 with for example one column member 80 at each end or corner and middle column member 80 being parallel with each other column members 80.

The perimeter ring frame assembly 94 includes beam members 104 end connected to each other using any suitable connection (eg welding or bolting), to form a shape commiserate with the perimeter shape of the top of the pool liner 2 and the walls of the panel support structure 3 0.

The panel support structure 30 comprises the floor structure 36 and modular wall structures 34 forming the recessed space 37 there between for t of the pool liner 2.

Floor structure 36 is formed of a body with a planar lower floor frame structure 38 having an inner floor surface 118 and outer floor surface 120 with edges 122. Floor structure 36 also has an upper floor panel structure 40 which has an upper surface 122 and lower surface 124 and edges 126. The floor structure 36 extends at least lly of the length 18 of the pool in that there does not need to be a floor structure underneath the area of the pool 4 covered by the deck 204.

Modular wall structures 34 es a planar panel body structure having side and end walls 130 g a thickness 132 there between an inner wall surface 134 and outer wall surface 136 with a top end edge 138 and lower end edge 140 defining a height 142.

For the frame support structure 32 if using more than one vertical transverse frame, there is also provided a space 200 located between the vertical frames and beyond the pool support structure 30. Space 200 can be located at one end of the pool or somewhere between the ends of the pool but beyond the pool liner 2.

Other components that can be held and supported in the space 200 beyond the container assembly 1 are a deck 204 stairs or steps 206, pool equipment 208, access way structures eg door(s) or gates 210, 212 and handrail structure 214 (eg wall t frame and infill panels). 742NZA COMP SPEC 11De02018 850 MCG/«fi author»/ The pool liner 2 can be sized to extend the complete part or only part way of the length 20 of the pool.

Deck 204 is applied to, connected and supported on a top of the extra transverses beams of the perimeter ring frame assembly. The stairs or steps 206 are also supported by the perimeter ring frame ly and erse vertical frames.

As shown in figures 23-27, the frame support ure 32 includes a side cradle frame220 located on the side 88 or length dimension of the pool 4, which is interconnected with the horizontal frame and the transverse frame whereby the side cradle frame 220 is interconnected by le fixing and/or ing eg welding and bolting as d in the side space 42 between an outside of the pool liner 2 and inside the wall structures 34. The side cradle 220 can be fabricated out of steel. The side cradle frame 220 is included in all the sides including or excluding the ends of assembly as ed.

The side cradle 220 comprises an overall frame shape forming incline sides extending furthermost at a bottom, which is made up of ed vertical te members 222, substantially (or close to) horizontal strut members 224 and side rail members 226.

For example for a pool of say 1730m high, 2300 wide and length of 6000m, members 222, 224 can be box sections of 65X35X3 mm SHS welded together whereas members 226 can be box sections 100x100 bolted to the strut members 224 and welded to the members 222.

Inclined vertical elongate members 222 are connected at their upper portion to an upper inside portion of the column members 80 on the sides 88 and at their lower portion being connected to the lower base frame 38. As shown in the drawings there can be several members 222 spaced along the length of the pool.

The strut members 224 are those elongate members that provide lateral support to the sides of the pool liner 2 and to the inclined vertical elongate s 222. Strut members 224 are varied in length and angle of orientation depending on the length 18, size or volume of the pool 4 and their vertical position with respect to the slope of the inclined vertical elongate members 222. These strut members 224 extend from and are supported by the column G:\l96742NZA COMP SPEC 11Dec2018 850 MCG/«fi author>>l members (spaced along the length of the pool) from one end to protrude inwardly towards the pool liner 2 to end at a distal end. The distal end of strut members 224 are capped by side rails 226 which extend substantially horizontally. For example on one or each side of the pool, there can be two separate rows of spaced struts 224 thereby requiring two side rail members 226.

As shown in figures 3 and 4 lower base frame 38 is sitting on ted hardfill 10 eg 200mm thick with GAP 40 with top soil d, with a hardfill extension 10a eg 500 mm extending beyond the extent of the lower base frame 38. The lower base frame 38 comprises two longitudinal outer beams 230 (eg channel l8OPFC steel beam) with first cross members 232 (eg channel l80PFC steel beam at 420 centres maximum) spanning there between.

However as shown in figure 26 the lower base frame 38 includes extra longitudinal members 234 as well as the first cross members 232 as shown in figures 3 and 4. The extra longitudinal s 234 include 100x5 flat at 540 mm centres, elongate members which are simply laid over the top of the first cross members 232. Also as shown in figure 27 there are second cross members which are also box sections similar ns to the box sections of columns 80 which are end connected (eg welded) to a bottom end of columns 80 (Eg 65x3 5X3 SHS welded together) which are lapped on top of and bolted to cross s 232.

Perimeter ring frame assembly 94 includes for example RHS x6 or a 100x100 x5 with M12 bolt to the top and side of columns 80. The columns 80 at one end of the pool ng the decked area are larger in section than the columns 80 (eg 65x35x3mm SHS at 850mm centres welded together) in the rest of the pool and can be for example 65x65x3mm and columns at the ends of the pool can be 65x3 5x3. In another option, with the perimeter beam 94, an angle support 236 (eg being 100x100x5) can be located and connected underneath perimeter beam 94.

Assembly As shown in the figures, the pool liner 2 can be sized to extend at least a portion of the complete length 18 n ends of the pool 4. In this example the pool liner 2 can extend part of the length 18 of the pool 4, to leave at least one void for the location of the ‘other components”.

G:\196742NZA COMP SPEC llDec2018 850 MCG/«fl author»/ The ground 6 or substrate 8 for a pool 4 is prepared by removing the top soil and then laying a suitable bedding material such as a basecoarse or hardfrll (eg GAP 40) which is then compacted. Alternatively, a concrete pad 10 can be laid on top of the ground 6 after removal of the top soil.

The modular support ly 1 for a pool 4 can be assembled offsite (either fully or partially) and simply transported and/or lifted into place or alternatively the modular modular support assembly for a pool 1 can be assembled (either fully or partially) on site.

The modular modular support assembly 1 for a pool 4 is partially led before installing the pool liner 2 with the rest of the frame support structure being completed afterwards ie the ter ring frame structure 94.

One method of construction 1. Prepare the floor structure 36 by first g a lower frame structure 38 on top of a support surface of the basecoarse/hard fill or substrate. 2. Laying an upper floor panel structure 40 over and on top of the lower frame structure 3 8; 3. Prepare frame support structure 32 by placing column members 80 ally spaced around an outside of the modular wall structures 34 by abutting to outer wall surface 136 of r wall structure 34; 4. Connect column members 80 to outer wall surface 136 of modular wall structure 34; . Form transverse vertical frame structures as rectangular frames to match the cross nal area of the pool; 6. Place horizontal beam members 82 on top of all end faces of r wall structures 34 of the pool support structure and/or of column members 80 and on top of transverse frame structures, to form the perimeter ring frame structure 94; 7. Connect beam members 82 to column members 80 and the perimeter ring frame structure 94 to the transverse frame structures to form the modular support assembly for a pool; 8. Erect side cradle frame 220 inside of the already erected parts of the frame support structure g recessed space 37 for the pool liner 2; G:\196742NZA COMP SPEC 11De02018 850 MCG/«fi author»/ 9. Insert pool liner in recessed space 37 by resting on cradle frame 220 Other suggested step in an order that can be ered to suit customer ements, site conditions and manufacturing requirements: After erecting the frame support structure 32, place and erect modular wall structures 34 having inner wall surface 134, by connecting at a lower end 140 of the modular wall structure 34 to abut inner surface 122 of a perimeter edge of upper floor panel 40.

Place insulation layer 44 inside one side of the modular wall panel structures 34 by abutting inner wall surface 134 of the modular wall structures 34; After placing insulation layer 44, place and insert pool liner 2 over insulation layer 44 and floor structure 36 to bed there against and seal there between.

After placing liner 2, install pool ent at end of pool; Then attach side doors 210 for access to pool equipment; Insert stairs 206 and gate 210, 212; Then lay deck 204 on frame support structure 32; Insert and affix hand rail ure 214 to form the pool; Then prepare a substrate, by removing top soil; Laying and then compacting a base material 3 as a bedding material; Lift modular support assembly 2 for a pool with pool liner on to the ed base material 3.

Finally then fill pool liner 2 with water. al Advantages a) Relatively safe b) Compact design 0) Able to be moved d) Rapid construction e) Rapid installation 3 Durable construction g) Able to be transported h) Modest cost to manufacture G:\196742NZA COMP SPEC llDec2018 850 MCG/«fi author»/ i) Straight forward ly j) Meets safety requirements k) Less tory requirements 1) Can be assembled e or onsite m) Able to make secure in terms of children safety n) Able to access pool equipment under stairs 0) Includes stairs Within the pool structure p) Able to have stairs in selected position Variations Throughout the description of this specification, the word ise” and variations of that word such as “comprising” and “comprises”, are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps. The pool or modular support assembly 1 for a pool 4 can be located above ground 6 or be recessed partially or fully in the ground 6.

It will also be tood that where a product, method or process as herein bed or claimed and that is sold incomplete, as individual components, or as a “kit of Parts”, that such exploitation will fall within the ambit of the ion.

The pool and pool liner and corresponding pool support structure can be formed or constructed of any suitable shape such any polygonal or angular shape or even circular or curved, and can include for example rectangular, square, triangular etc. There can also be more than one pool liner 2 eg pool liners 2 on each side of an access way or steps 206 or be one pool liner 2 extending from end to end. The pool liner 2 can be made from any combination of als eg plastics or fibreglass, a composite plastics material or be Vinyl sprayed on the inner surface of the modular support assembly 1 for a pool 4.

In yet other variations the pool liner 2 can be recessed below the walls of the panel support structure 30 or can be located to be extending above the walls of the pool support structure.

The on of the steps 206 can also be located in the ends of the pool or panel support structure 30. The deck 204 can be located level with the perimeter beam structure 94 or can be recessed below.

G:\196742NZA COMP SPEC 11Dec2018 850 MCG/«fi author>>l —18- The r wall structures 34 can be any suitable structure including panels without or without an internal frame and floor structure 36 of the pool support structure can be provided by 180 PFC steel beams X x4 CC Dura Gal channel at 300 CRS 5mm FWAR TO 150 PFC. And the members of the frame support structure 32 can include for example a RHS ie a rolled hollow steel members 100x50x6mm. The perimeter ring frame assembly 94 can include a lower support frame faced with a timber beam extending level from the deck 204.

The insulation layer 44 can be any suitable material such as for example yrene foam and can be inserted re there is a recess or cavity within the assembly 1 or pool 4 ie in the sides, ends and base. The decking 204 and handrails 214 are al features. The stairs 206 can be located within the decking 204 or be located outside of the modular support assembly 1 for a pool 4.

The column members 80 of the frame support structure 32 are shown as being located and/or connected externally of the modular wall structures 34 but equally the column members 80 can be d and/or connected between the modular wall structures 34 or even on an inner side of the modular wall panel structures 34 in any suitable positon and or spacing.

The modular support assembly 1 and pool 4 can be formed of suitable dimensions to assist in being able form as a modular structure and be transportable. Some examples of length are 12100mm and width of 2500mm and height of 1450mm. Being modular also allows the container to be ed as required. The hand rail 214 can be formed of for example ofplastic or steel or aluminium framing with glass or Perspex panels. The modular wall structures 34 and/or doors 201, 212 can also include venting 220 in any shape or form as required.

These and other features and teristics of the present invention, as well as the method of operation and functions of the related ts of structures and the combination of parts and economics of manufacture, will become more nt upon consideration of the ing description with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding paits in the various figures.

It is acknowledged that the term ‘comprise’ may, under varying jurisdictions, be attributed with either an exclusive or an inclusive meaning. For the purpose of this specification, and unless otherwise noted, the tem ‘comprise’ shall have an inclusive meaning — i.e. that it will 742NZA COMP SPEC 11Dec2018 850 i author»/ be taken to mean an inclusion of not only the listed ents it directly references, but also other non—specified components or elements. This rationale will also be used when the term ‘comprised’ or 'comprising' is used in relation to one or more steps in a method or process.

For purposes of the description hereinafter, the terms “upper”, ”, “right”, “left”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “top”, “bottom”, “lateral”, “longitudinal”, “side”, ”, “rear” and derivatives f shall relate to the invention as it is oriented in the drawing figures.

However it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative variations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the invention. Hence specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting.

It will of course be ed that While the foregoing has been given by way of illustrative e of this ion, all such and other modifications and variations thereto as would be apparent to persons skilled in the art are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit of this invention as is hereinbefore described.

G:\196742NZA COMP SPEC llDec2018 850 MCG/«fi author»/

Claims (9)

What we claim is: 1. Claim 1: A modular support assembly 1 to support a pool liner 2 to contain fluid therein for a pool 4, which is adapted be assembled from components and to be d above or below ground 6, the pool 4 has sides 12 defining a width or transverse dimension 14 and ends 16 defining a length or longitudinal dimension 18 including a recess space 20 for the pool of fluid being water, and the modular support assembly 1 includes a shape of a container having sides and a base with a recess space in between, wherein the modular support assembly 1 includes at least the following components of a frame support structure 32 and floor structure 36, which are connected together such that the 10 frame support structure 32 supports the pool liner 2 so that the components together form an open top container having a recess space 114 to support a pool liner 2 to hold fluid therein to form the pool, wherein the frame support structure 32 includes elongate members connected together forming or being formed from onnected horizontal frame(s) and transverse vertical 15 frame(s), wherein the horizontal frames include a perimeter ring frame ly 94 and the transverse vertical frame includes column s 80 interconnected with ntal members 82 to form erse vertical frames and the horizontal frames to surround and t the pool liner 2, wherein the frame support structure 32 includes a side cradle frame 220 d on the side 20 88 or length dimension of the pool 4, which is interconnected with the horizontal frame and the transverse frame whereby the side cradle frame 220 is interconnected by suitable fixing and/or fastening, wherein the floor structure 36 provides the base and includes a lower floor frame structure 38 supported by a ate 8 (ground 6, base course or slab 10) and upper planar floor panel 25 member(s) 40 to support the pool liner 2 there on. Claim 2: The modular support assembly 1 to support a pool liner 2 as d in claim 1 wherein the modular support assembly 1 includes a panel support structure 30 which forms part of the sides of the assembly 1 being shaped and constructed to abut an outside of the 30 frame support structure 32 wherein a recess space 42 is created there between wherein an insulation layer 44 is d in ed space 42 between the pool liner 2 and panel support structure 30 and the panel t structure 30 provides part of the sides of the assembly and G:\196742NZA COMP SPEC llDec2018 850 MCG/«fi author>>l includes a modular wall ure 34 comprising interconnected wall panels for the sides and ends of the assembly. Claim 3: The modular support assembly 1 to support a pool liner 2 as claimed in claim 1 wherein, a deck 204 and stairs 206 are attached to and supported by the frame support structure 32 at one end of the modular support ly 1. Claim 4: The modular support assembly 1 to support a pool liner 2 as claimed in claim 1 wherein, an access—way 210 or 212 is provided in at least one side or end of the pool 10 t structure 30 wherein there are two access ways 210, 212 located on sides opposite each other and the access ways 210, 212 are provided at one end of or in the sides of the assembly panel, of the support structure 30. Claim 5: The modular support assembly 1 to t a pool liner 2 as claimed in claim 15 1 wherein the horizontal frame forms a perimeter ring frame assembly 94 located at and around a top perimeter of the pool or modular support assembly for a pool which are joined to the transverse frames to provide support for the deck 204 and stairs 206. Claim 6: The modular support assembly 1 to support a pool liner 2 as claimed in claim 20 1 wherein the side cradle frame 220 comprises an overall frame shape forming inclined sides extending rmost at a bottom, which is made up of inclined al elongate members 222, substantially horizontal strut members 224 and side rail members 226. Claim 7: The modular support assembly 1 to support a pool liner 2 as claimed in claim 25 6 wherein the inclined vertical elongate members 222 are connected at their upper portion to an upper inside portion of the column members 80 on the sides 88 and at their lower portion being connected to the lower base frame 38 wherein there are several s 222 spaced along the length of the pool and the strut members 224 are elongate s that provide lateral support to the sides of the pool liner 2 and to the inclined vertical elongate members 30 222, strut s 224 are varied in length and angle of ation depending on the length 18, size or volume of the pool 4 and their vertical on with respect to the slope of the inclined vertical elongate members 222 whereby strut members 224 extend from and are ted by the column members 80 (spaced along the length of the pool) from one end to G:\196742NZA COMP SPEC llDec2018 850 MCG/«fi author>>l protrude inwardly towards the pool liner 2 to end at a distal end, and the distal end of strut members 224 are capped by side rails 226 which extend substantially horizontally. Claim 8: The modular support assembly 1 to support a pool liner 2 as claimed in claim 1 wherein on one or each side of the pool, there can be two separate rows of spaced struts 224 thereby requiring two side rail members 226. Claim 9: The r support assembly 1 to support a pool liner 2 as claimed in claim 7 wherein lower base frame 38 is sitting and supported on compacted l and the lower 10 base frame 38 comprises two longitudinal outer beams 230 with first cross members 232 spanning there between and the lower base frame 38 includes extra longitudinal members 234 as well as the first cross members 232, which comprise flat strip elongate members which are laid over the top of the first cross members 232, the lower base frame 38 includes second cross members which are also box sections similar sections to the box sections of 15 columns 80 which are end ted (eg welded) to a bottom end of columns 80 which are lapped on top of and bolted to cross members 232. Claim 10: The modular support assembly 1 to support a pool liner 2 as claimed in claim 1 wherein perimeter ring frame 94 includes RHS bolted to the top and side of s 80, 20 and the columns 80 at one end of the pool abutting the decked area are larger in section than the columns 80 in the rest of the pool and can be for example 65x65x3mm and columns at the ends of the pool can be 65x35x3 Claim 11: The modular support assembly 1 to t a pool liner 2 as claimed in claim 25 1 wherein, the perimeter beam 94 includes an angle support 236 eath the perimeter beam 94 and a hand rail ure 214 is provided to upwardly protrude and be connected on top of the perimeter ring frame 94 or peripherally on the deck. Claim 12: The modular support ly 1 to support a pool liner 2 as claimed in claim 30 1 n, the pool liner 2 is provided in the middle or at one end of the length 18 of the pool. Claim 13: The modular support assembly 1 to support a pool liner 2 as claimed in claim E 742NZA COMP SPEC 11Dec2018 850 MCG/«fi author>>/ -23_ 2 n, the r wall structure 34 is formed of at least one planar modular wall panel structure which include edge joining means enabling several wall panel structures to be removably ted to each other. Claim 14: The modular support assembly 1 to support a pool liner 2 as claimed in claim 1 wherein, the pool 4 or modular support assembly for a pool 1 is d and or ted by a base including a base material 3 wherein the base material is a suitably compacted hardfill of a certain thickness and grade. 10 Claim 15. A method of construction of a modular t assembly 1 for a pool 4, a modular support assembly 1 to support a pool liner 2 to contain fluid therein for a pool 4, and which is adapted be assembled from components and to be located above or below ground 6, the pool 4 has sides 12 defining a width or transverse dimension l4 and ends 16 defining a length or longitudinal dimension 18 including a recess space 20 for the pool of fluid being 15 water, and the modular support assembly 1 includes a shape of a container having sides and a base with a recess space in between, wherein the modular support assembly 1 includes at least the following components of a frame t structure 32 and floor structure 36, which are connected together such that the frame support structure 32 supports the pool liner 2 so that the components together form an 20 open top container having a recess space 114 to support a pool liner 2 to hold fluid therein to form the pool, wherein the frame t structure 32 includes elongate members connected together forming or being formed from interconnected horizontal frame(s) and transverse vertical frame(s), wherein the horizontal frames include a perimeter ring frame assembly 94 and the 25 transverse vertical frame includes column members 80 interconnected with horizontal members 82 to form transverse vertical frames and the horizontal frames to surround and support the pool liner 2, n the frame support structure 32 includes a side cradle frame 220 d on the side 88 or length dimension of the pool 4, which is interconnected with the horizontal frame and 30 the transverse frame whereby the side cradle frame 220 is interconnected by le fixing and/or fastening, wherein, the floor structure 36 provides the base and includes a lower floor frame structure 38 supported by a substrate 8 (ground 6, base course or slab 10) and upper planar floor panel G:\l96742NZA COMP SPEC 018 850 MCG/«fi author»/ member(s) 40 to support the pool liner 2 there on, wherein the method includes the following steps of:

1. Prepare the floor structure 36_by first placing a lower frame ure 38 on top of a 5 support surface of the basecoarse/hard fill or substrate.

2. Laying an upper floor panel structure 40 over and on top of the lower frame ure 3 8;

3. Prepare frame t structure 32 by g column members 80 vertically spaced around an outside of the modular wall structures 34 by abutting to outer wall surface 10 136 of modular wall structure 34;

4. Connect column members 80 to outer wall surface 136 of modular wall structure 34;

5. Form erse vertical frame structures as gular frames to match the cross sectional area of the pool;

6. Place horizontal beam members 82 on top of all end faces of modular wall structures 15 34 of the pool support ure and/or of column members 80 and on top of transverse frame structures, to form the perimeter ring frame structure 94;

7. Connect beam members 82 to column members 80 and the perimeter ring frame structure 94 to the transverse frame structures to form the modular support assembly for a pool; 20

8. Erect side cradle frame 220 inside of the already erected parts of the frame support structure forming recessed space 37 for the pool liner 2;

9. Insert pool liner in recessed space 37 by resting on cradle frame 220 25 Claim 16. The method of construction of a modular t assembly 1 as claimed in claim 15 n after erecting the frame support structure 32, place and erect modular wall structures 34 having inner wall surface 134, by connecting at a lower end 140 of the modular wall structure 34 to abut inner surface 122 of a perimeter edge of upper floor panel 40 whereby then placing insulation layer 44 inside one side of the modular wall panel structures 30 34 by abutting inner wall surface 134 of the modular wall structures 34; G:\196742NZA COMP SPEC llDec2018 850 MCG/«fi author»/ Claim 17. The method of construction of a modular support assembly 1 as claimed in claim 16 wherein after placing insulation layer 44, place and insert pool liner 2 over insulation layer 44 and floor structure 36 to bed there against and seal there between. Claim 18. The method of construction of a modular support assembly 1 as claimed in claim 17 wherein after placing the pool liner 2, install pool equipment at end of pool and then attach side doors 210 for access to pool equipment. Claim 19. The method of construction of a modular support assembly 1 as claimed in 10 claim 18 wherein insert stairs 206 and gate 210, 212 and lay deck 204 on frame support structure 32 and insert and affix hand rail ure 214 to form the pool. Claim 20. The method of construction of a modular support ly 1 as claimed in claim 19 wherein then prepare a substrate, by removing top soil followed by laying and then 15 compacting a base material 3 as a bedding material whereby then lifting the r support assembly 1 for a pool with pool liner on to the prepared base material 3 and then fill pool liner 2 with water.