US20140165307A1 - Pool cleaning vehicle with rotating and stationary scrubbing elements - Google Patents
Pool cleaning vehicle with rotating and stationary scrubbing elements Download PDFInfo
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- US20140165307A1 US20140165307A1 US13/717,621 US201213717621A US2014165307A1 US 20140165307 A1 US20140165307 A1 US 20140165307A1 US 201213717621 A US201213717621 A US 201213717621A US 2014165307 A1 US2014165307 A1 US 2014165307A1
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- pcv
- scrubbing
- pool
- housing
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- 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
- E04H4/14—Parts, details or accessories not otherwise provided for
- E04H4/16—Parts, details or accessories not otherwise provided for specially adapted for cleaning
- E04H4/1654—Self-propelled cleaners
Definitions
- This invention generally relates to the field of automated pool products. Particularly, this invention relates to an automated swimming pool cleaning vehicle (PCV) for facilitating thorough cleaning of the pool water and pool surfaces. More particularly, this invention relates to devices and cleaning structure used in cooperation with a PCV having a set of spaced apart wheels and providing structure for cleaning and scrubbing the pool surface.
- PCV automated swimming pool cleaning vehicle
- the typical vehicle includes a housing and drive members.
- the drive members attach to the housing usually through connection to a chassis.
- Drive members include wheels, endless loop tracks and combinations of each.
- vehicles have included two and four wheel drive vehicles in various combinations and variations. In the case of a belt or endless loop track.
- the track wraps around the drive and/or idler wheels or rollers.
- a vehicle may also have some combination of wheels and/or rollers and the vehicle may also be a two or four-wheel drive vehicle.
- the endless loop track may be fitted over any combination of two or four wheel drive vehicles. Such tracks have been found to be an effective means for moving the vehicle around the surface of the pool while the vehicle is submerged.
- PCV submersible automated pool cleaning vehicle
- the sanitizing structure for a Pool Cleaning Vehicles is limited to such a PCV having spaced-apart free-spinning and drive wheels and not drive tracks, which was the subject of an earlier patent specification by the one of the inventors herein.
- the sanitizing structure herein is a combination of the cleaning member on the PCV chassis, the suction created by the PCV for absorbing dirt and debris through the PCV intakes and the scrubbing members associated with the wheels.
- the scrubbing members include elements extending from the wheels. In an exemplary embodiment, the elements defining a plurality of bristles, which, taken together form a frustoconical shape.
- the scrubbing members extend from the bottom of the housing and toward the pool surface over which the PCV travels.
- the cleaning member is a rotating brush attached to the bottom of the PCV housing and includes bristles for dislodging dirt and debris as the PCV movers along the pool surface.
- the wheels with the scrubbing elements and the bristles on the housing dislodge dirt and debris.
- the dirt and debris dislodged by the cleaning and scrubbing members are then sucked up by the PCV through housing intakes, cleaning and sanitizing the pool water.
- It is an object of this invention is to provide a PCV with structure suitable for sanitizing swimming pool water.
- the PCV in accordance with this invention includes spaced apart drive wheels and sanitizing structure being attachable to the chassis and the housing, comprises:
- the wheels have scrubbing elements and include wheel covers, covering at least a substantial portion of the wheels and the scrubbing elements are embedded in the wheel covers.
- the PCV includes a second scrubbing member and at least a second intake member, the second scrubbing member is located proximate to the second intake member.
- the second scrubber member is attached to the bottom of the housing and extends from the housing in a predetermined direction and the second scrubber member includes rotating bristles, the rotating bristles have a direction of rotation generally perpendicular to the direction from which the second scrubber member extends from the bottom of the housing.
- the wheel covers include a scrubbing element insert made from a material specifically designed for scrubbing pool surfaces.
- the PCV includes a third scrubbing member, identical to the second scrubbing member and at least a third intake member, the third scrubbing member is located proximate to the third intake member.
- the second and third members are spaced apart from each other on bottom of the housing.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pool cleaning vehicle having the sanitizing structure in accordance with this invention.
- FIG. 2 is bottom perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the PCV in accordance with this invention illustrating the embodiment having three scrubber members.
- FIG. 3 illustrates the proximity of the first scrubber member to the housing intake.
- FIG. 4 is a bottom partial perspective view of the PCV illustrating the flow of dirt and particulates through the housing intakes.
- FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view of the PCV in accordance with this invention illustrating the flow of dirt and particulates through the housing intakes.
- FIG. 1 there is shown an exemplary embodiment of the submersible pool cleaning vehicle (PCV) having the cleaning structure in accordance with this invention generally denoted by the numeral 20 .
- PCV submersible pool cleaning vehicle
- the PCV 20 includes a housing 22 having an exterior 24 and interior (not shown). Within the interior of the housing is a motor for creating a vacuum effect.
- the housing includes conduit terminating at intakes for drawing water into a filter system and an outlet (not shown) for expelling filtered water back into the pool.
- the PCV 20 includes a chassis (not shown) generally within the interior of the housing 22 .
- the PCV 20 includes an electrical motor (not shown) which powers drive wheels 30 .
- the PCV 20 includes additional free-spinning wheel 32 .
- the free-spinning wheel 32 is also mounted on the chassis.
- the PCV also includes a cleaning member 40 .
- the cleaning member 40 is mounted on an axle between drive wheels 30 as shown clearly in FIG. 1 .
- the drive wheels 30 are positioned at the rear of the PCV and a brush roller 42 defining a cleaning member 40 is positioned between the drive wheels.
- the drive wheels 30 turn the roller 42 with sufficient torque to cause the brush roller 42 to dislodge particulates and dirt and debris.
- the brush roller 42 can be easily removed and replaced as needed.
- a series of intakes 50 are located in close proximity to the roller 42 for sucking up such loosened matter. Again, this is well understood in the art and the references specifically incorporated above and below provide sufficient basis for understanding these principles.
- the PCV 20 in accordance with this invention, includes a first scrubbing member 60 , which comprises two sets of scrubbers as shown. Each set of scrubbers are located proximate the brush roller 42 and the intakes 50 .
- the PCV includes a second and third scrubbing member, 62 and 64 , respectively. Each of these scrubbing members is mounted on a housing support 66 , as best seen in FIGS. 2 & 4 .
- Scrubber member 62 and 64 include a plurality of scrubbing elements 68 .
- the scrubbing elements 68 are attached to a rotating platform 70 as best seen in FIG. 5 .
- the platform 70 is mounted on the housing support 66 .
- the PCV 20 also includes a free-spinning wheel 32 positioned between scrubbing members 62 and 64 . Additionally, the PCV 20 has another intake 74 , located in the bottom of the housing 22 and proximate the free-spinning wheel 32 , and the scrubbing members 62 and 64 .
- FIGS. 2 & 3 there is shown a bottom illustration of the PCV 20 with the PCV 20 in the upside down position. In this view, the cleaning member 40 is clearly seen between the two drive wheels 30 .
- the cleaning member 40 in the preferred embodiment in accordance with the invention is a rotating brush, brush roller 42 , attached to an axle (not shown) between the drive wheels 30 .
- the drive wheels 30 move PCV 20 along the pool surface, they rotate the brush roller 42 so that it dislodges dirt and debris.
- the brush roller 42 defines a series of peaks and valleys.
- the brush roller 42 is made from material that is specifically designed for dislodging such particulates. Additionally, the brush roller 42 is made from an engineering plastic that is both flexible and durable for accomplishing this function.
- the scrubbing members 62 and 64 each include a plurality of scrubbing elements 68 .
- the elements 68 are composed of a series of individual bristles 80 .
- the individual bristles 80 are grouped together and define a particular shaper namely a frustoconical shape. This shape has been found to maximize the amount of dirt and stain that can be removed by the rotating scrubbing member 62 and 64 .
- the drive wheels 30 include scrubbing elements 82 mounted over the drive wheels 30 .
- the scrubbing elements 82 define tracks having a pattern of ridges and valleys. As with the cleaning member 40 , the pattern of the scrubbing elements 82 is formed to maximize the amount of dirt and stain that is removed from the pool surface contacted by the PCV 20 . Likewise, the scrubbing elements 82 are made from material suitable to perform the functions herein described.
- FIGS. 4 and 5 there is illustrated the flow of the water after dirt and debris have been dislodged by the scrubbing members 62 and 64 .
- the rotating action of the scrubbing member 62 and 64 in the direction of arrows 90 and 92 causes a current to be created.
- the current created flows, generally, in the direction of arrows 94 .
- the direction of flow takes the dislodged dirt and debris into the path of the intakes 50 .
- a vacuum motor (not shown) is activated within the housing 22 and a vacuum is created at the intakes.
- the dislodged dirt and debris is sucked up through the intakes 50 and removed from the pool surface and the pool water. In this manner the pool is not merely cleaned but sanitized.
- the scrubbing members are made from elastomer.
- the degree of hardness of the elastomer depends upon the pool surface. On some pool surfaces a harder degree of elastomer is more desirable than on others.
- the scrubbing elements 36 are similarly customizable.
- a wheel cover 34 may have one type of hardness and the scrubbing element can be imbedded with a specific material that would be best suited for that surface. In this way, a variety of wheel covers and scrubbing elements can be offered to the user to best suit the needs of a particular pool surface.
- the tread on the drive wheels 30 is made from an elastomer.
- the tread on the drive wheels is made from various compounds, both natural and synthetic to satisfy the requirements of moving the PCV and cleaning the underwater pool surface.
- the scrubbing elements in an exemplary embodiment have a circular cross section.
- the surface is made from a material designed to dislodge dirt and remove stain from a pool surface as the PCV collides with the surface during normal operation.
- the material for the surface is normally hard, for example an engineering plastic.
- the scrubbing elements includes an inner core which is sponge-like and flexible in nature. Additionally, the surface of the scrubbing elements are designed to have a rough, but non-abrasive surface is suitable for dislodging dirt, debris and removing stains from the pool surface.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Cleaning In General (AREA)
- Cleaning By Liquid Or Steam (AREA)
- Vehicle Cleaning, Maintenance, Repair, Refitting, And Outriggers (AREA)
- Brushes (AREA)
Abstract
Disclosed herein is a submersible pool cleaning vehicle (PCV) having both cleaning and scrubbing structures. The PCV includes spaced wheels and several sets of scrubbing members. Each of the scrubbing members includes a plurality of scrubbing elements. The PCV also includes a cleaning brush for dislodging particulates. In one exemplary embodiment, the PCV includes a fixed scrubbing member and two rotating scrubbing members. The rotating scrubbing member act cooperatively and create a current after dislodging particulates and dirt from the pool surface. The rotating scrubbing members direct the current carrying such dislodged material toward the intakes of the PCV so that it can be permanently removed from the pool water.
Description
- This application is related to application Ser. Nos. 13/531,594 and 12/939,079, filed by co-inventor, Wing-kin HUI, for POOL CLEANING VEHICLE HAVING SIDE VENTS AND DUCTS POOL CLEANING VEHICLE WITH ENDLESS LOOP TRACK, respectively and filed on Nov. 17 & 18, 2008, also respectively. These applications are specifically incorporated herein and are to be used for all purposes consistent with incorporation by reference.
- This application is also related to U.S. Pat. No. 8,225,446 B2 POOL CLEANING VEHICLE HAVING SIDE VENTS AND DUCTS and issued on Jul. 24, 2012 is specifically incorporated herein and are to be used for all purposes consistent with incorporation by reference.
- And, finally, this application is related to co-filed application Ser. No. ______, Attorney Docket No. JHUI1980.
- This invention generally relates to the field of automated pool products. Particularly, this invention relates to an automated swimming pool cleaning vehicle (PCV) for facilitating thorough cleaning of the pool water and pool surfaces. More particularly, this invention relates to devices and cleaning structure used in cooperation with a PCV having a set of spaced apart wheels and providing structure for cleaning and scrubbing the pool surface.
- It is well accepted that submersible automated pool cleaning devices, such as self-propelled pool cleaning vehicles (PCNs) are essential to the proper maintenance of a pool, whether the pool be above or below ground. The typical vehicle includes a housing and drive members. The drive members attach to the housing usually through connection to a chassis. Drive members include wheels, endless loop tracks and combinations of each. Additionally, vehicles have included two and four wheel drive vehicles in various combinations and variations. In the case of a belt or endless loop track. The track wraps around the drive and/or idler wheels or rollers.
- It will be appreciated that a vehicle may also have some combination of wheels and/or rollers and the vehicle may also be a two or four-wheel drive vehicle. The endless loop track may be fitted over any combination of two or four wheel drive vehicles. Such tracks have been found to be an effective means for moving the vehicle around the surface of the pool while the vehicle is submerged.
- Of course, the primary purpose for all PCV's is to clean the pool and pool water. In order to properly maintain clean pool water, the water itself as well as the pool surfaces must be cleaned and kept clean. It is imperative to keep the pool surfaces free from the buildup of dirt and debris. Once dirt and/or debris is allowed to settle in on the pool surface, algae forms. A large enough build-up of such algae can cause the pool pH to become unbalanced and the pool water unstable, in terms of cleanliness.
- Sometimes drastic efforts caused by “dirty” water result in the entire contents of the pool being drained and starting again. As can be appreciated this is an expensive and time consuming process. Additionally, without thorough cleaning and maintain, the situation will simply be repeated. There is no guarantee, without proper maintenance methods, that the water will not simply revert to the same “dirty” condition.
- Of special concern in this regard, is the fact that embedded particles can be particular concern. As noted by others, these embedded particulates can cause fatal consequences in term of “dirty water” requiring the emptying of the pool for dry cleaning. Clearly, a condition that is primary to avoid.
- Clearly, there is a strong industry-wide need to prevent the buildup of particulates in the pool water. There is even a stronger need to prevent the embedding of such particulates in the surface of the pool. Cleaning each and every square millimeter of the pool's surface is simply not a practical solution. Therefore, Applicant has developed a structure for using the automated pool cleaning vehicle to remove even embedded particulates in the surface of the pool. Additionally, the cleaning structure, in accordance with the invention, facilitates the PCV to thoroughly clean the dirt and debris thus dislodged from the pool's surface. This not only serves the short term goal of keeping the water clean and free from dirt and debris, but also is helpful in accomplishing the long term goal of preventing the buildup of such particulates on and in the surface of the pool.
- What is needed is cleaning structure for a submersible automated pool cleaning vehicle (PCV), which is adapted to clean the pool surface by dislodging dirt and debris from the surface of the pool and further to dislodge even embedded dirt and debris from the surface of the pool using the automated motion of the PCV.
- The sanitizing structure for a Pool Cleaning Vehicles (PCV), in accordance with the present invention, is limited to such a PCV having spaced-apart free-spinning and drive wheels and not drive tracks, which was the subject of an earlier patent specification by the one of the inventors herein. The sanitizing structure herein is a combination of the cleaning member on the PCV chassis, the suction created by the PCV for absorbing dirt and debris through the PCV intakes and the scrubbing members associated with the wheels. The scrubbing members include elements extending from the wheels. In an exemplary embodiment, the elements defining a plurality of bristles, which, taken together form a frustoconical shape. The scrubbing members extend from the bottom of the housing and toward the pool surface over which the PCV travels.
- The cleaning member is a rotating brush attached to the bottom of the PCV housing and includes bristles for dislodging dirt and debris as the PCV movers along the pool surface. As the PCV with the sanitizing structure, in accordance with the invention, moves about the pool surface, the wheels with the scrubbing elements and the bristles on the housing dislodge dirt and debris. Thus, the dirt and debris dislodged by the cleaning and scrubbing members are then sucked up by the PCV through housing intakes, cleaning and sanitizing the pool water.
- It is an object of this invention is to provide a PCV with structure suitable for sanitizing swimming pool water.
- It is an additional object of this invention to provide such sanitizing structure, which is attachable to a PCV and thereby uses automated means to dislodge dirt and debris from the pool surface.
- It is an additional object of this invention to provide such sanitizing structure, which is attachable to a PCV and thereby uses automated means to dislodge dirt and debris embedded in the pool surface.
- In accordance with the objects set forth above and those that will be described hereinafter, the PCV in accordance with this invention includes spaced apart drive wheels and sanitizing structure being attachable to the chassis and the housing, comprises:
-
- a housing having a bottom and an exterior and an interior and including at least one intake member and a vacuum member for drawing water into the housing through the intakes, the housing including a filter member for filtering water drawn into the housing through the intakes and an outlet for expelling the filtered water back into the pool;
- a chassis attached to the housing and being generally within the interior;
- drive means attached to the chassis for propelling the PCV throughout the surface of the pool, the drive means including spaced apart wheels for receiving power from the drive means;
- a cleaning member attached to the housing;
- a first set of scrubbing members extending from the bottom and the scrubbing members being proximate to the intake member;
- whereby, as the PCV moves around the pool surface the scrubbing members contact the surface of the pool and dislodge dirt and debris and whereby the vacuum member absorbs the dislodged dirt and debris to facilitate sanitizing the pool water.
- In another exemplary embodiment, the PCV, in accordance with this invention, the wheels have scrubbing elements and include wheel covers, covering at least a substantial portion of the wheels and the scrubbing elements are embedded in the wheel covers.
- In an exemplary embodiment, the PCV includes a second scrubbing member and at least a second intake member, the second scrubbing member is located proximate to the second intake member.
- In another exemplary embodiment, the second scrubber member is attached to the bottom of the housing and extends from the housing in a predetermined direction and the second scrubber member includes rotating bristles, the rotating bristles have a direction of rotation generally perpendicular to the direction from which the second scrubber member extends from the bottom of the housing.
- In another exemplary embodiment, the wheel covers include a scrubbing element insert made from a material specifically designed for scrubbing pool surfaces.
- In another exemplary embodiment, the PCV includes a third scrubbing member, identical to the second scrubbing member and at least a third intake member, the third scrubbing member is located proximate to the third intake member. The second and third members are spaced apart from each other on bottom of the housing.
- It is an advantage of the instant invention to provide a sanitizing PCV, which cleans and sanitizes pool water in an automated fashion by dislodging particulates from the surface of the pool.
- It is also an advantage of the invention to provide detachable sanitizing elements to a pool cleaning vehicle, which can be replaced upon becoming worn.
- It is an additional advantage of the PCV in accordance with this invention to be able to remove long standing stains found in certain pool surfaces without having to resort to manual brushes and the like.
- For a further understanding of the objects and advantages of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which like parts are given like reference numerals and wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pool cleaning vehicle having the sanitizing structure in accordance with this invention. -
FIG. 2 is bottom perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the PCV in accordance with this invention illustrating the embodiment having three scrubber members. -
FIG. 3 illustrates the proximity of the first scrubber member to the housing intake. -
FIG. 4 is a bottom partial perspective view of the PCV illustrating the flow of dirt and particulates through the housing intakes. -
FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view of the PCV in accordance with this invention illustrating the flow of dirt and particulates through the housing intakes. - With respect to
FIG. 1 there is shown an exemplary embodiment of the submersible pool cleaning vehicle (PCV) having the cleaning structure in accordance with this invention generally denoted by the numeral 20. - The
PCV 20 includes a housing 22 having an exterior 24 and interior (not shown). Within the interior of the housing is a motor for creating a vacuum effect. The housing includes conduit terminating at intakes for drawing water into a filter system and an outlet (not shown) for expelling filtered water back into the pool. Such features are well known and are described in the art. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,867,389 B2 and U.S. application Ser. No. 12/100,414 show further details of the above functions, the entire specifications of which are specifically incorporated herein for all purposes. - The
PCV 20 includes a chassis (not shown) generally within the interior of the housing 22. ThePCV 20 includes an electrical motor (not shown) which powers drivewheels 30. ThePCV 20 includes additional free-spinning wheel 32. The free-spinning wheel 32 is also mounted on the chassis. - The wheels, whether
drive wheels 30 orfree spinning wheel 32 are spaced apart from one another and in any case, do not form an endless loop. This is in contrast to earlier described inventions in this art where the PCV included a drive track (endless loop) instead of spaced apart wheels. For example, such inventive aspects of cleaning a pool surface under water are described in a related application, namely U.S. application Ser. No. 12/939,079, the entire specification of which is specifically incorporated herein for all purposes. When the drive motor is activated, the PCV is propelled by supplying rotational power to thedrive wheels 30. - The PCV also includes a cleaning
member 40. The cleaningmember 40 is mounted on an axle betweendrive wheels 30 as shown clearly inFIG. 1 . In the exemplary embodiment shown, thedrive wheels 30 are positioned at the rear of the PCV and abrush roller 42 defining a cleaningmember 40 is positioned between the drive wheels. Under power, thedrive wheels 30 turn theroller 42 with sufficient torque to cause thebrush roller 42 to dislodge particulates and dirt and debris. Thebrush roller 42 can be easily removed and replaced as needed. - A series of
intakes 50 are located in close proximity to theroller 42 for sucking up such loosened matter. Again, this is well understood in the art and the references specifically incorporated above and below provide sufficient basis for understanding these principles. - The
PCV 20, in accordance with this invention, includes afirst scrubbing member 60, which comprises two sets of scrubbers as shown. Each set of scrubbers are located proximate thebrush roller 42 and theintakes 50. - The PCV includes a second and third scrubbing member, 62 and 64, respectively. Each of these scrubbing members is mounted on a
housing support 66, as best seen inFIGS. 2 & 4 .Scrubber member elements 68. The scrubbingelements 68 are attached to a rotating platform 70 as best seen inFIG. 5 . The platform 70 is mounted on thehousing support 66. - The
PCV 20 also includes a free-spinning wheel 32 positioned between scrubbingmembers PCV 20 has another intake 74, located in the bottom of the housing 22 and proximate the free-spinning wheel 32, and the scrubbingmembers - With particular reference to
FIGS. 2 & 3 , there is shown a bottom illustration of thePCV 20 with thePCV 20 in the upside down position. In this view, the cleaningmember 40 is clearly seen between the twodrive wheels 30. - The cleaning
member 40 in the preferred embodiment in accordance with the invention is a rotating brush,brush roller 42, attached to an axle (not shown) between thedrive wheels 30. As thedrive wheels 30move PCV 20 along the pool surface, they rotate thebrush roller 42 so that it dislodges dirt and debris. Thebrush roller 42 defines a series of peaks and valleys. Thebrush roller 42 is made from material that is specifically designed for dislodging such particulates. Additionally, thebrush roller 42 is made from an engineering plastic that is both flexible and durable for accomplishing this function. - The scrubbing
members elements 68. Theelements 68 are composed of a series of individual bristles 80. The individual bristles 80 are grouped together and define a particular shaper namely a frustoconical shape. This shape has been found to maximize the amount of dirt and stain that can be removed by the rotating scrubbingmember - The
drive wheels 30 include scrubbingelements 82 mounted over thedrive wheels 30. The scrubbingelements 82 define tracks having a pattern of ridges and valleys. As with the cleaningmember 40, the pattern of the scrubbingelements 82 is formed to maximize the amount of dirt and stain that is removed from the pool surface contacted by thePCV 20. Likewise, the scrubbingelements 82 are made from material suitable to perform the functions herein described. - With respect to
FIGS. 4 and 5 , there is illustrated the flow of the water after dirt and debris have been dislodged by the scrubbingmembers member arrows arrows 94. As illustrated, the direction of flow takes the dislodged dirt and debris into the path of theintakes 50. A vacuum motor (not shown) is activated within the housing 22 and a vacuum is created at the intakes. The dislodged dirt and debris is sucked up through theintakes 50 and removed from the pool surface and the pool water. In this manner the pool is not merely cleaned but sanitized. - In an exemplary embodiment, the scrubbing members are made from elastomer. The degree of hardness of the elastomer depends upon the pool surface. On some pool surfaces a harder degree of elastomer is more desirable than on others. By providing a variety of different scrubbing elements, which are easily changeable, the user can customize the PCV for his own particular pool surface.
- Likewise, the scrubbing elements 36 are similarly customizable. For example, a wheel cover 34 may have one type of hardness and the scrubbing element can be imbedded with a specific material that would be best suited for that surface. In this way, a variety of wheel covers and scrubbing elements can be offered to the user to best suit the needs of a particular pool surface.
- The tread on the
drive wheels 30 is made from an elastomer. In the exemplary embodiment, the tread on the drive wheels is made from various compounds, both natural and synthetic to satisfy the requirements of moving the PCV and cleaning the underwater pool surface. - The scrubbing elements in an exemplary embodiment have a circular cross section. The surface is made from a material designed to dislodge dirt and remove stain from a pool surface as the PCV collides with the surface during normal operation. For example, the material for the surface is normally hard, for example an engineering plastic. In an exemplary embodiment, the scrubbing elements includes an inner core which is sponge-like and flexible in nature. Additionally, the surface of the scrubbing elements are designed to have a rough, but non-abrasive surface is suitable for dislodging dirt, debris and removing stains from the pool surface.
- While the foregoing detailed description has described several embodiments of the cleaning structure in accordance with this invention, it is to be understood that the above description is illustrative only and not limiting of the disclosed invention. Particularly, there are varieties of different combinations of scrubbing members and elements, fixed and rotational that are not disclosed specifically herein, but fall clearly within the spirit and scope of the invention herein. Each such combination, although not specifically recited and described above is within the spirit and scope of this invention. It also will be appreciated that PCV in accordance with the invention herein includes a drive structure which is propelled by water flowing through output jets located on the housing. In this embodiment, no motor is required to propel the PCV. Thus, the invention is to be limited only by the claims as set forth below.
Claims (17)
1. An automated fully submersible pool cleaning vehicle (PCV) for sanitizing water in a swimming pool, the PCV, comprising:
a housing having a bottom and an exterior and an interior and including at least one intake member and a vacuum member for drawing water into the housing through the intakes, the housing including a filter member for filtering water drawn into the housing through the intakes and an outlet for expelling the filtered water back into the pool;
a chassis attached to the housing and being generally within the interior;
drive means attached to the chassis for propelling the PCV throughout the surface of the pool, the drive means including spaced apart wheels for receiving power from the drive means;
a cleaning member attached to the housing;
a first set of scrubbing members extending from the bottom and the scrubbing members being proximate to the intake member;
whereby, as the PCV moves around the pool surface the scrubbing members contact the surface of the pool and dislodge dirt and debris and whereby the vacuum member absorbs the dislodged dirt and debris to facilitate sanitizing the pool water.
2. The PCV as set forth in claim 1 , wherein the PCV includes a second scrubbing member and at least a second intake member, the second scrubbing member is located proximate to the second intake member.
3. The PCV as set forth in claim 2 , wherein the PCV includes a second scrubbing member and at least a second intake member, the second scrubbing member is located proximate to the second intake member.
4. The PCV as set forth in claim 3 , wherein the second scrubber member is attached to the bottom of the housing and extends from the housing in a predetermined direction and the second scrubber member includes rotating bristles, the rotating bristles have a direction of rotation generally perpendicular to the direction from which the second scrubber member extends from the bottom of the housing.
5. The PCV as set forth in claim 4 , wherein the PCV includes a third scrubbing member, identical to the second scrubbing member and at least a third intake member, the third scrubbing member is located proximate to the third intake member; and the second and third members being spaced apart.
6. The PCV as set forth in claim 1 , wherein the scrubbing member includes a plurality of scrubbing elements.
7. The PCV as set forth in claim 1 , wherein the scrubbing elements define a plurality of bristles and the bristles taken together define a scrubbing element having frusta-conical shape.
8. The PCV as set forth in claim 5 , wherein the scrubbing member includes a plurality of scrubbing elements.
9. The PCV as set forth in claim 8 , wherein the scrubbing elements define a plurality of bristles and the bristles taken together define a scrubbing element having frusta-conical shape.
10. The PCV as set forth in claim 6 or 8 , wherein the scrubbing elements are made from a material specifically designed for scrubbing pool surfaces.
11. The PCV as set forth in claim 1 , wherein the scrubbing member is easily detached from re-attachable to the housing.
12. The PCV as set forth in claim 1 , wherein the cleaning member defines a rotating brush connected to the bottom of the housing adjacent the intakes.
13. The PCV as set forth in claim 10 , wherein the brush is easily detached from the wheels and easily re-attached to the housing.
14. An automated fully submersible pool cleaning vehicle (PCV) for sanitizing water in a swimming pool, the PCV, comprising:
a housing having a bottom and an exterior and an interior and including at least one intake member and a vacuum member for drawing water into the housing through the intakes, the housing including a filter member for filtering water drawn into the housing through the intakes and an outlet for expelling the filtered water back into the pool;
a chassis attached to the housing and being generally within the interior;
drive means attached to the chassis for propelling the PCV throughout the surface of the pool, the drive means including spaced apart wheels for receiving power from the drive means;
a cleaning member attached to the housing;
a first set of scrubbing members extending from the bottom and the scrubbing members being proximate to the intake member, the scrubbing members being stationary;
whereby, as the PCV moves around the pool surface the scrubbing members contact the surface of the pool and dislodge dirt and debris and whereby the vacuum member absorbs the dislodged dirt and debris to facilitate sanitizing the pool water.
15. The PCV as set forth in claim 14 , wherein the PCV includes a second scrubbing member mounted on the bottom of the housing, the second scrubbing member rotates and directs water flow toward the intakes.
16. The PCV as set forth in claim 15 , wherein the PCV includes a third scrubbing member mounted on the bottom of the housing, spaced apart from the second scrubbing member, the third scrubbing member rotates and directs water flow toward the intakes.
17. The PCV as set forth in claim 16 , wherein the second and the third scrubbing members rotate cooperatively, creating a current flow which directs water toward the intakes.
Priority Applications (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/717,601 US9359782B2 (en) | 2012-12-17 | 2012-12-17 | Automated pool cleaning vehicle with scrubbing elements |
US13/717,621 US20140165307A1 (en) | 2012-12-17 | 2012-12-17 | Pool cleaning vehicle with rotating and stationary scrubbing elements |
EP13197511.2A EP2743430B1 (en) | 2012-12-17 | 2013-12-16 | Automated pool cleaning vehicle with rotating and stationary scrubbing elements |
ES13197511T ES2814875T3 (en) | 2012-12-17 | 2013-12-16 | Automated pool cleaning vehicle with rotating and stationary cleaning elements |
CN201310723694.7A CN103867001A (en) | 2012-12-17 | 2013-12-17 | Automated pool cleaning vehicle with rotating and/or stationary scrubbing elements |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/717,621 US20140165307A1 (en) | 2012-12-17 | 2012-12-17 | Pool cleaning vehicle with rotating and stationary scrubbing elements |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20140165307A1 true US20140165307A1 (en) | 2014-06-19 |
Family
ID=49886631
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/717,621 Abandoned US20140165307A1 (en) | 2012-12-17 | 2012-12-17 | Pool cleaning vehicle with rotating and stationary scrubbing elements |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20140165307A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2743430B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN103867001A (en) |
ES (1) | ES2814875T3 (en) |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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USD796758S1 (en) * | 2016-01-08 | 2017-09-05 | Zodiac Pool Systems, Inc. | Brush for pool cleaner |
US9920546B2 (en) | 2015-05-13 | 2018-03-20 | Zodiac Pool Systems Llc | Components of automatic pool cleaners |
US10858853B2 (en) * | 2018-07-03 | 2020-12-08 | Zodiac Pool Systems Llc | Autonomous active waterline scrubbing device principally for swimming pools and spas |
US20220042338A1 (en) * | 2019-09-12 | 2022-02-10 | National Wise Limited | Pool cleaning vehicle |
Families Citing this family (8)
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ES2949411T3 (en) | 2015-01-26 | 2023-09-28 | Hayward Ind Inc | Pool cleaner with hydrocyclonic particle separator and/or roller drive system |
US9885196B2 (en) | 2015-01-26 | 2018-02-06 | Hayward Industries, Inc. | Pool cleaner power coupling |
US9885194B1 (en) | 2017-05-11 | 2018-02-06 | Hayward Industries, Inc. | Pool cleaner impeller subassembly |
US10156083B2 (en) | 2017-05-11 | 2018-12-18 | Hayward Industries, Inc. | Pool cleaner power coupling |
US9896858B1 (en) | 2017-05-11 | 2018-02-20 | Hayward Industries, Inc. | Hydrocyclonic pool cleaner |
CN108776479B (en) * | 2018-06-05 | 2021-05-07 | 北京智行者科技有限公司 | Collaborative sweeping operation method |
CN113102410B (en) * | 2021-04-15 | 2022-11-01 | 隋承昊 | Gardens pond belt cleaning device |
CN115162794A (en) * | 2022-08-05 | 2022-10-11 | 智橙动力(北京)科技有限公司 | Swimming pool cleaning robot with inner cavity water paths distributed in conical mode |
Family Cites Families (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3324492A (en) * | 1965-08-05 | 1967-06-13 | Robert R Myers | Swimming pool cleaning means |
EP0483470B1 (en) * | 1990-10-31 | 1996-05-08 | 3S Systemtechnik Ag | Self-propelled cleaning device,particularly for swimming pools |
CN2680779Y (en) * | 2004-02-17 | 2005-02-23 | 王德良 | Bottom cleaning machine for swimming pool |
CN101285348A (en) * | 2007-04-10 | 2008-10-15 | 胜利宝有限公司 | Cleaning machine for water tank |
US7867389B2 (en) * | 2008-05-06 | 2011-01-11 | Pool Technology | Pool cleaning vehicle having an advanced drain system |
IL206154A (en) * | 2009-06-04 | 2012-05-31 | Maytronics Ltd | Pool cleaning robot |
CN201817792U (en) * | 2010-10-20 | 2011-05-04 | 侯唯敏 | Cleaning vehicle |
US8510889B2 (en) * | 2010-10-28 | 2013-08-20 | Wing-kin HUI | Automated pool cleaning vehicle with middle roller |
US8661594B2 (en) | 2010-11-03 | 2014-03-04 | Multi Wisdom Limited | Cleaning apparatus for pool cleaning vehicle with endless loop track |
-
2012
- 2012-12-17 US US13/717,621 patent/US20140165307A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2013
- 2013-12-16 EP EP13197511.2A patent/EP2743430B1/en active Active
- 2013-12-16 ES ES13197511T patent/ES2814875T3/en active Active
- 2013-12-17 CN CN201310723694.7A patent/CN103867001A/en active Pending
Cited By (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9920546B2 (en) | 2015-05-13 | 2018-03-20 | Zodiac Pool Systems Llc | Components of automatic pool cleaners |
US10428546B2 (en) | 2015-05-13 | 2019-10-01 | Zodiac Pool Systems Llc | Components of automatic pool cleaners |
US10480205B2 (en) | 2015-05-13 | 2019-11-19 | Zodiac Pool Systems Llc | Components of automatic pool cleaners |
USD796758S1 (en) * | 2016-01-08 | 2017-09-05 | Zodiac Pool Systems, Inc. | Brush for pool cleaner |
US10858853B2 (en) * | 2018-07-03 | 2020-12-08 | Zodiac Pool Systems Llc | Autonomous active waterline scrubbing device principally for swimming pools and spas |
US20220042338A1 (en) * | 2019-09-12 | 2022-02-10 | National Wise Limited | Pool cleaning vehicle |
US11441326B2 (en) * | 2019-09-12 | 2022-09-13 | Upward Sales Limited | Pool cleaning vehicle |
US11668111B2 (en) * | 2019-09-12 | 2023-06-06 | National Wise Limited | Pool cleaning vehicle |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP2743430A2 (en) | 2014-06-18 |
CN103867001A (en) | 2014-06-18 |
EP2743430A3 (en) | 2015-09-09 |
EP2743430B1 (en) | 2020-07-15 |
ES2814875T3 (en) | 2021-03-29 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: UPWARD SALES LIMITED, HONG KONG Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:HUI, WING-KIN;HUI, WING-TAK;REEL/FRAME:029956/0425 Effective date: 20130226 Owner name: WISETOP CORPORATION LIMITED, HONG KONG Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:HUI, WING-KIN;HUI, WING-TAK;REEL/FRAME:029957/0134 Effective date: 20130226 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |