Abstract
Embodiments of present disclosure provide an above-ground pool and an above-ground pool band-frame connector device. The above-ground pool includes a pool liner and a band connected to the exterior of the pool liner. Furthermore, the above ground pool includes an above-ground pool frame with a plurality of above-ground pool horizontal frame members and a plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members. The above-ground pool frame can be coupled with the pool liner. The above-ground pool further includes a first above-ground pool band-frame connector device, wherein the first above-ground pool band-frame connector device couples a first of the plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members to the band.
Claims
1. An above-ground pool comprising: a pool liner; a band connected to the exterior of the pool liner; an above-ground pool frame comprising a plurality of above-ground pool horizontal frame members and a plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members, wherein the above-ground pool frame can be coupled with the pool liner; and an above-ground pool band-frame connector device; wherein the above-ground pool band-frame connector device couples one of the plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members to the band.
2. The above-ground pool of claim 1, wherein no substantial gaps are present between the band and the pool liner when the above-ground pool is filled with water.
3. The above-ground pool of claim 1, wherein none of the plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members are in between the band and the pool liner when the above-ground pool is filled with water.
4. The above-ground pool of claim 1, wherein the above-ground pool band-frame connector device comprises: a connector protrusion or a connecter ring, and a coupling ring; wherein the coupling ring is configured to couple to the one of the plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members.
5. The above-ground pool of claim 4, wherein the coupling ring is configured to receive the one of the plurality of above-pool vertical frame members into an opening of the coupling ring.
6. The above-ground pool of claim 4, further comprising a connector receiving aperture located between the band and the pool liner, wherein the above-ground pool band-frame connector device couples the one of the plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members to the band by coupling the one of the plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members to the coupling ring and inserting the connector protrusion or the connecter ring into the connector receiving aperture.
7. The above-ground pool of claim 6, wherein the connector receiving aperture is defined by the band, the pool liner, and band attachment points, and the band attachment points connect the band to the pool liner to form the connector receiving aperture.
8. The above-ground pool of claim 7, wherein the band attachment points comprise multiple parallel weld lines or stitching lines.
9. The above-ground pool of claim 7, wherein the band attachment points each comprise a length spanning an entire height of the band.
10. An above-ground pool band-frame connector device comprising: a coupling ring, wherein the coupling ring is configured to be coupled to an above-ground pool vertical frame member of an above-ground pool frame of an above-ground pool; and a connector protrusion, wherein the connector protrusion can be inserted into a connector receiving aperture located between a band and a pool liner of the above-ground pool; wherein coupling the above-ground pool vertical frame member with the coupling ring and inserting the connector protrusion into the connector receiving aperture couples the above-ground pool vertical frame member with the band and the pool liner and increases the stability of the above-ground pool frame.
11. The above-ground pool band-frame connector device of claim 10, further comprising a flex slot.
12. The above-ground pool band-frame connector device of claim 11, wherein the flex slot extends for a portion of a length of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device.
13. The above-ground pool band-frame connector device of claim 10, wherein the flex slot is configured to enable expansion and contraction of the coupling ring, enabling the coupling ring to expand to receive the above-ground pool vertical frame member.
14. An above-ground pool band-frame connector device comprising: a coupling ring, wherein the coupling ring is configured to be coupled to an above-ground pool vertical frame member of an above-ground pool frame of an above-ground pool; and a connector ring, wherein the connector ring can be inserted into a connector receiving aperture between a band and a pool liner of the above-ground pool; wherein coupling the above-ground pool vertical frame member with the coupling ring and inserting the connector ring into the connector receiving aperture couples the above-ground pool vertical frame member with the band and the pool liner and increases the stability of the above-ground pool frame.
15. The above-ground pool band-frame connector device of claim 14, wherein the coupling ring is inclined with respect to the connector ring.
16. The above-ground pool band-frame connector device of claim 15, wherein a plane coinciding with the coupling ring is inclined at an angle ranging from 45 to 135 with respect to a plane coinciding with the connector ring.
17. The above-ground pool band-frame connector device of claim 14, wherein the above-ground pool band-frame connector device is formed by bending or twisting a single rod or wire.
18. The above-ground pool band-frame connector device of claim 14, wherein the above-ground pool band-frame connector device has a figure-eight or lemniscate shape.
19. The above-ground pool band-frame connector device of claim 14, wherein the above-ground pool band-frame connector device further comprises a flex slot connected between the coupling ring and the connector ring, and a coupling ring opening of the coupling ring and a connector ring opening of the connector ring are in communication with each other through the flex slot.
20. The above-ground pool band-frame connector device of claim 14, wherein the coupling ring has a body in wavy shape.
21. An above-ground pool comprising: a pool liner; a band connected to the exterior of the pool liner; an above-ground pool frame comprising a plurality of above-ground pool horizontal frame members and a plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members, wherein the above-ground pool frame can be coupled with the pool liner; a first cradle connected to the band; and a first pole-band; wherein the first pole-band can couple a first of the plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members to the first cradle; wherein coupling a first of the plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members with the first pole band couples the first of the plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members with the band and the pool liner and increases the stability of the above-ground pool frame.
22. The above-ground pool of claim 21, further comprising: a second cradle coupled to the band; and a second pole-band; wherein the second pole-band can couple a second of the plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members to the second cradle.
23. The above-ground pool of claim 21, wherein the first cradle further comprises a receiving slot into which a portion of the first pole-band can be inserted to couple the first pole-band to the first cradle.
24. The above-ground pool of claim 21, wherein the first cradle is welded to the band.
25. The above-ground pool of claim 21, wherein first cradle is connected to the band with a friction fit.
26. An above-ground pool comprising: a pool liner; a band connected to the exterior of the pool liner; an above-ground pool frame comprising a plurality of above-ground pool horizontal frame members and a plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members, wherein the above-ground pool frame can be coupled with the pool liner; and a first loop strap connected to the pool liner; wherein the first loop strap is configured to couple a first of the plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members to the pool liner; and wherein coupling the first of the plurality of the above-ground pool vertical frame members with the first loop strap increases the stability of the above-ground pool frame.
27. The above-ground pool of claim 26, further comprising: a second loop strap connected to the pool liner; wherein the second loop strap can couple a second of the plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members to the pool liner.
28. The above-ground pool of claim 27, further comprising: a third loop strap connected to the pool liner; wherein the third loop strap can couple a third of the plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members to the pool liner.
29. The above-ground pool of claim 26, wherein first loop strap is coupled to the bottom of the pool liner.
30. The above-ground pool of claim 26, wherein first loop strap is welded to the band.
31. The above-ground pool of claim 26, further comprising a first shoe, wherein the first of the plurality of the above-ground pool vertical frame members is inserted into the first shoe.
32. The above-ground pool of claim 31, wherein the first loop strap can couple a first of the plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members to the pool liner by coupling the first loop strap around the first shoe.
33. An above-ground pool, comprising: a pool liner; at least one band segment section, wherein each band segment section of the at least one band segment section is connected to an exterior of the pool liner; an above-ground pool frame comprising a plurality of above-ground pool horizontal frame members and a plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members, wherein the above-ground pool frame is configured to be coupled with the pool liner; and an above-ground pool band-frame connector device configured to couples one of the plurality of above-ground pool vertical frame members to one of the at least one band segment section.
34. The above-ground pool of claim 33, wherein the at least one band segment section comprises a plurality of band segment sections.
35. The above-ground pool of claim 34, wherein the plurality of band segment sections are arranged around the circumference of the pool liner at regular intervals.
36. The above-ground pool of claim 33, wherein each band segment section of the at least one band segment section is welded or stitched to the pool liner.
37. The above-ground pool of claim 33, wherein each band segment section of the at least one band segment section is formed with a connector receiving aperture for receiving the above-ground pool vertical frame member.
38. The above-ground pool of claim 33, wherein the above-ground pool band-frame connector device comprises a coupling ring, wherein the coupling ring is configured to be coupled to an above-ground pool vertical frame member of an above-ground pool frame of an above-ground pool; and a connector protrusion, wherein the connector protrusion can be inserted into a connector receiving aperture located between a band and a pool liner of the above-ground pool; wherein coupling the above-ground pool vertical frame member with the coupling ring and inserting the connector protrusion into the connector receiving aperture couples the above-ground pool vertical frame member with the band and the pool liner and increases the stability of the above-ground pool frame.
39. The above-ground pool of claim 33, wherein the above-ground pool band-frame connector device comprises: a coupling ring, wherein the coupling ring is configured to be coupled to an above-ground pool vertical frame member of an above-ground pool frame of an above-ground pool; and a connector ring, wherein the connector ring can be inserted into a connector receiving aperture between a band and a pool liner of the above-ground pool; wherein coupling the above-ground pool vertical frame member with the coupling ring and inserting the connector ring into the connector receiving aperture couples the above-ground pool vertical frame member with the band and the pool liner and increases the stability of the above-ground pool frame.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] Aspects of the present disclosure are best understood from the following detailed description when read with the accompanying figures. It is noted that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion.
[0007] FIG. 1 illustrates a conventional above-ground pool.
[0008] FIG. 2 is an illustration of an above-ground pool 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0009] FIG. 3 is an illustration of a pool liner 220 of an above-ground pool 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0010] FIG. 4A is an illustration of above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230A according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0011] FIG. 4B is an illustration of above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230B according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 5 is an illustration of portion of the side of an above-ground pool 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0013] FIGS. 6A-6D provide a step-by-step illustration of coupling the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230B with the above-ground pool 200 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 7 is an illustration of a portion of the side of an above-ground pool 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0015] FIG. 8 is an illustration of a portion of the side of an above-ground pool 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0016] FIG. 9 is an illustration of a portion of the side of an above-ground pool 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0017] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a portion of the side of a pulling sheet 905 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0018] FIG. 11 is an illustration of portion of the side of a pulling sheet 905 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0019] FIGS. 12A-12B are illustrations of an above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 and above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0020] FIGS. 13A-13D provide a step-by-step illustration of coupling the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 with the above-ground pool 200 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0021] FIGS. 14A-14B are illustrations of a portion of the side of an above-ground pool 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0022] FIGS. 15A-15C provide a step-by-step illustration of coupling the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 with the above-ground pool 200 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 16 is an illustration of an above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 and an above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] The following disclosure provides many different exemplary embodiments, or examples, for implementing different features of the provided subject matter. Specific simplified examples of components and arrangements are described below to explain the present disclosure. These are, of course, merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. For example, the formation of a first feature over or on a second feature in the description that follows may include embodiments in which the first and second features are formed in direct contact and may also include embodiments in which additional features may be formed between the first and second features, such that the first and second features may not be in direct contact. In addition, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and/or configurations discussed.
[0025] The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinary meanings in the art and in the specific context where each term is used. The use of examples in this specification, including examples of any terms discussed herein, is illustrative only, and in no way limits the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplified term. Likewise, the present disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given in this specification.
[0026] Although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element, without departing from the scope of the embodiments. As used herein, the term and/or includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
[0027] Further, spatially relative terms, such as beneath, below, lower, above, upper and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. The spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. The apparatus may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein may likewise be interpreted accordingly.
[0028] In this document, the term coupled may also be used to indicate that two or more elements cooperate or interact with each other. Furthermore, the term coupled may be used to indicate that two or more elements are removably coupled, in that they can be uncoupled.
[0029] FIG. 2 is an illustration of an above-ground pool 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, above-ground pool 200 may include an above-ground pool frame 205. In accordance with the present disclosure, some embodiments of the above-ground pool frame 205 may include one or more above-ground pool horizontal frame members 210 and one or more above-ground pool vertical frame members 215. Additionally, some embodiments of the above-ground pool 200 may include pool liner 220, which provides a water impermeable surface on the inside to retain the water of the above-ground pool 200 when filled. Furthermore, in some embodiments of the above-ground pool 200, the pool liner 220 is in partial communication with the above-ground pool frame 205 to provide the structure of the above-ground pool 200. Accordingly, the pool liner 220 may be configured to hold water within above-ground pool frame 205. In some embodiments of the above-ground pool 200, pool liner 220 may be configured to take up the volume within above-ground pool frame 205.
[0030] As shown in FIG. 2, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the above-ground pool 200 can include a band 225. The band 225, in some embodiments, is separate from pool liner 220 and provides additional support for the pool liner 220 and the above-ground pool frame 205 to contain the bulging force created by water in the above-ground pool 200. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the band 225 may be a reinforcement of pool liner 220. As shown in FIG. 2, in some embodiments, the band 225 may configured around the entire outer circumference of the pool liner 220 proximate the lower portion of the above-ground pool 200. In some embodiments, the band 225 is made of durable and robust material capable of withstanding force applied by the weight of the water in above-ground pool 200. In some embodiments, the band 225 is made of similar material to the pool liner 220 of above-ground pool 200. In other embodiments, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the band 225 is made of a different material than the pool liner 220 of above-ground pool 200. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the band 225 and the pool liner 220 serve to contain water in a determined volume against the weight of the held water and without leaking.
[0031] As shown in FIG. 2, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the above-ground pool 200 can be configured such that the above-ground pool vertical frame members 215 are connected to the band 225 and the pool liner 220 with an above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230. The above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, can be configured to couple an above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 with the band 225 and the pool liner 220. As shown in FIG. 2, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the above-ground pool 200 can be configured such that the band 225 is in close contact with the pool liner 220 with minimal gaps present when the above-ground pool 200 is filled with water. More specifically, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, when the above-ground pool 200 is filled with water, the band 225 is pulled taut against the pool liner 220 and minimal gaps are present between the pool liner 220 and band 225. Also, as shown in the embodiment in FIG. 2, the above-ground pool vertical frame members 215 of the above-ground pool frame 205 can be secured against the band 225 and pool liner 220 by the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the above-ground pool vertical frame members 215 can be coupled to a coupling ring of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230 and a protrusion of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230 can be inserted into an aperture between the band 225 and the pool liner 220. As shown in FIG. 2, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, when the above-ground pool 200 is filled with water, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230 is pulled taut with the band 225 and pool liner 220 thereby securing the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 against the side of the above-ground pool 200. As shown in embodiment of above-ground pool 200 in FIG. 2, the above-ground pool vertical frame members 215 are not threaded between the band 225 and the pool liner 220 but are configured external to both the pool liner 220 and the band 225. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230 can promote a secure, supported, and stable configuration of the above-ground pool 200 when the above-ground pool 200 is filled with water without having the above-ground pool vertical frame members 215 placed between the pool liner 220 and band 225. Furthermore, as shown in the embodiment of the above-ground pool 200 in FIG. 2, minimal gaps are presented between the band 225 and pool liner 215. Accordingly, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, there are no gaps that could by perceived by a user of the above-ground pool 200 as a step to be stepped on by the user. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, no surfaces are presented between the band 225 and pool liner 220 that might be perceived by a user of the above-ground pool 200 as a place to stand or step on the side of the above-ground pool 200.
[0032] FIG. 3 is an illustration of a pool liner 220 of an above-ground pool 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, above-ground pool 200 may include a band 225 and pool liner 220. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the band 225 can be securely attached to the pool liner 220. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that there are a variety of suitable techniques to attach the band 225 to the pool liner 220. For example, as shown in the embodiment in FIG. 3, the band 225 can be welded to the pool liner 220 to create a secure, durable, and reliable attachment. Those of skill in art will appreciate that there a number of techniques to weld the band 225 to the pool liner 220, including Radio Frequency (RF) welding and dielectric welding. For example, with RF welding, a high frequency electric field can be applied to the band 225 and the pool liner 220 to heat and melt the base materials of the band 225 and the pool liner 220 while clamped together and the clamping force can be maintained until the weld solidifies. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the technique for attaching the band 225 to the pool liner 220 can vary in accordance with the type of material used for the band 225 and/or the pool liner 220. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, as shown in the embodiment in FIG. 3, band 225 can be attached to the above-ground pool 200 at multiple points along the circumference of the band 225 around the exterior of the above-ground pool 200. For example, as shown in the embodiment in FIG. 3, the band 225 can be attached to the pool liner 220 at band attachment point 305A and band attachment point 305B. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the proximity of the band attachment point 305A and band attachment point 305B can create a connector receiving aperture 310 between the band 225 and the pool liner 220 to receive the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230. More specifically, connector receiving aperture 310 can provide an opening between the band 225 and the pool liner 220 to receive the insertion of above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230.
[0033] FIG. 4A is an illustration of above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230A according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4A, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230A can include a coupling ring 405. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the coupling ring 405 is configured to receive the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 of the above-ground pool frame 205. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4A, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230A can include a flex slot 410, which extends for a distance less than the full length of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230A. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the flex slot 410 of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230A is configured to allow expansion and contraction of the coupling ring 405; thereby, enabling the coupling ring 405 to expand to receive the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 upon insertion of the vertical fame member 215 upon the construction of the above-ground pool frame 205 or to expand to allow removal of the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 from the above-ground pool frame 205 upon deconstruction of the above-ground pool frame 205. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230A can provide a connector protrusion 415, which can be inserted into a connector receiving aperture 310 between the band 225 and the pool liner 220 of above-ground pool 200.
[0034] FIG. 4B is an illustration of above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230B according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4B, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230B can include a coupling ring 420. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the coupling ring 420 is configured to receive the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 of the above-ground pool frame 205. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4B, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230B can include a flex slot 425. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the flex slot 425 can extend the full length of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230B. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the flex slot 425 of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230A is configured to allow expansion and contraction of the coupling ring 420; thereby, enabling the coupling ring 420 to expand to receive the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 upon insertion of the member 215 upon the construction of the above-ground pool frame 205 or to expand to allow removal of the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 from the above-ground pool frame 205 upon deconstruction of the above-ground pool frame 205. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230B can provide a connector protrusion 430, which can be inserted into a connector receiving aperture 310 between the band 225 and the pool liner 220 of above-ground pool 200.
[0035] FIG. 5 is an illustration of a portion of the side of an above-ground pool 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 provides an illustration of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in which the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 has been coupled with the coupling ring 405. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the connector protrusion 415 of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230A can be inserted into a connector receiving aperture 310 between the band 225 and the pool liner 220 of above-ground pool 200. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, insertion of the connector protrusion 415 of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230A into the connector receiving aperture 310 between the band 225 and the pool liner 220 of above-ground pool 200 provides a stable and secure connection between the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 of the above-ground pool frame 205 and the pool liner 220. Accordingly, when forces act to separate, compress, tear, otherwise distort the structure and integrity of the above-ground pool 200, the connection enabled by the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230A provided by some embodiments of the present disclosure can aid in securing and maintaining the structure and integrity of the above-ground pool 200. Those of skill in the art will appreciate in some embodiments, the above-ground pool 200 is heavy when filled with water, and the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230 can aid in ensuring the structure and integrity of the above-ground pool 200 when fully installed and configured.
[0036] FIGS. 6A-6D provide a step-by-step illustration of coupling the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230B with the above-ground pool 200 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6A, the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 can be constructed proximate to the band 225 surrounding the pool liner 220 of the above-ground pool 200. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6B, the flex slot 425 of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230B can be flexed to open and expand the coupling ring 420 to receive the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 of the above-ground pool frame 205. Accordingly, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230B can be removably coupled to the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6C, the connector protrusion 415 of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230B can be inserted into a connector receiving aperture 310 between the band 225 and the pool liner 220 of above-ground pool 200 by sliding the connector protrusion 415 into the connector receiving aperture 310. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6D, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230B can be configured to removably couple the band 225 and the pool liner 220 to the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 of the above-ground pool frame 205. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, once the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230B is coupled to the band 225 it can increase the stability of the above-ground pool 200. Therefore, with some embodiments of the present disclosure, above-ground pool band-frame connector device 230 can be configured such that it can be removably inserted into the connector receiving aperture 310, which enables easy and convenient installation of the above-ground pool 200 and easy and convenient deconstruction of above-ground pool 200.
[0037] FIG. 7 is an illustration of a portion of the side of an above-ground pool 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in the embodiment in FIG. 7, the above-ground pool 200 can include a plurality of cradles, such as cradle 710. The cradle 710, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, can be coupled to the band 225. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that there are a number of suitable ways to connect cradle 710 to the band 225. For example, cradle 710 can be welded to band 225, such as with an RF welding technique, heat welding, an adhesive technique, fasteners, or over-molding. Alternatively, cradle 710 can be coupled to band 225 with a friction fit in which two components of the cradle 710 are joined together with the band 225 in between, such that the cradle is 710 coupled via a friction fit with the band 225. As shown in the embodiment in FIG. 7, a pole-band, such as pole band 715A, 715B, can be removably coupled with cradle 710 such that the pole-band secures the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 and restricts its movement. As shown in the embodiment in FIG. 7, the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 can be inserted into a shoe, such as shoe 705, and then a pole-band, such a pole band 715A, 715B, can be removably coupled to the cradle 710. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cradle 710 can provide two receiving slots into which a portion of the pole band 715A, 715B can be inserted. In some embodiments, cradle 710 and pole band 715A, 715B may implement a tongue and groove connecting configuration to secure the above-ground pool vertical frame members 215 to increase the stability of the above-ground pool 200. For example, in this embodiment, the cradle 710 may include at least one tongue or groove. The pole band 715A, 715B may also comprise at least one tongue or groove. The spacing between the at least one tongue and groove of the cradle 710 may be greater than a diameter of the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215. The spacing between the at least one tongue and groove of the pole band 715A, 715B may be greater than a diameter of the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215. In some embodiments, the cradle 710 may comprise two tongues configured to securely connect with two grooves of the pole band 715A, 715B. In other embodiments, the cradle may include one tongue and one groove configured to securely connect with one groove and one tongue of the pole band 715A, 715B, respectively.
[0038] In other embodiments, cradle 710 and pole band 715A, 715B may each include at least one hole. When the pole band 715A, 715B is wrapped around the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215, the at least one hole of the cradle 710 and pole band 715A, 715B may be aligned. Plugs may pass through the aligned holes of both the cradle 710 and pole band 715A, 715B to secure the cradle 710 to pole band 715A, 715B and confer stability to the above-ground pool 200.
[0039] In accordance with some other embodiments, the cradle 710 may be conjoined with pole band 715A, 715B on one side of the cradle. The free end of the cradle 710 and pole band 715A, 715B may comprise a portion of a zip-tie or ratchet. The free end of the cradle 710 may comprise a head including a slot located therein. The slot may include a tongue, where the tongue includes at least one serration. The free end of the pole band 715A, 715B includes a plurality of serrations. To engage the free ends of the cradle 710 and pole band 715A, 715B, pole band 715A, 715B may be wrapped around the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215. Then, the plurality of serrations of the pole band 715A, 715B may be fed into the slot of the cradle 710. The cradle 710 and pole band 715A, 715B have a ratchet connection where at least one serration of the tongue of the cradle 710 is engaged with the plurality of serrations of the pole band 715A, 715B. The ratchet connection entails that the pole band 715A, 715B may slide within the slot of cradle 710 in a first direction but is locked from sliding within the slot of the cradle 710 in a direction opposite to the first direction. To tighten the engagement of the cradle 710 and pole band 715A, 715B around the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215, the pole band 715A, 715B may be pulled on its free end in the first direction. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, once the pole band 715A, 715B is coupled to the cradle 710, thereby securing above-ground pool vertical frame member 215, it can increase the stability of the above-ground pool 200. Therefore, with some embodiments of the present disclosure, pole band 715A, 715B can be configured such that it can be removably inserted into the cradle 710, which enables easy and convenient installation of the above-ground pool 200 and easy and convenient deconstruction of above-ground pool 200. As shown in the embodiment in FIG. 7, after installation, pole band 715A, 715B can provide a stable and secure connection between the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 of the above-ground pool frame 205 and the band 225 and pool liner 220 of the above-ground pool 200.
[0040] In some embodiments, the pole band 715A, 715B and cradle 710 may be comprised of a plastic material. The plastic material of the pole band 715A, 715B or cradle 710 may impart a semi-rigid or flexible property. For example, in some embodiments, the plastic material may comprise polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, nylon, high-density polyethylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyurethane, silicone, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the pole band 715A, 715B and cradle 710 may be comprised of the same material having different densities or different materials having different densities.
[0041] FIG. 8 is an illustration of a portion of the side of an above-ground pool 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in the embodiment in FIG. 8, the above-ground pool 200 can include loop straps, such as loop straps 810A and 810B. The loop straps 810A and 810B, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, can be coupled to the bottom of the pool liner 220. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that there are a number of suitable ways to couple loop straps 810A and 810B to the pool liner 220. For example, loop straps 810A and 810B can be welded to pool liner 220, such as with an RF welding technique, heat welding, or adhesive techniques. Alternatively, loop straps 810A and 810B can be removably coupled with the pool liner 220 with a fastening mechanism. As shown in the embodiment in FIG. 8, the loop straps can be removably coupled with to the above-ground pool vertical frame members 215. As shown in the embodiment in FIG. 8, the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 can be inserted into a shoe, such as shoe 805, and then a loop strap, such a loop strap 810A, can be removably coupled to the shoe 805. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, once the loop strap 810A is coupled to the shoe 805 holding above-ground pool vertical frame member 215, thereby securing above-ground pool vertical frame member 215, the loop strap 810A can increase the stability of the above-ground pool 200. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, once the loop strap 810A is coupled to the shoe 805 holding above-ground pool vertical frame member 215, the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 can be pulled such that the pool liner 220 is pulled taunt thereby removing wrinkles from the pool liner 220. Therefore, with some embodiments of the present disclosure, loop strap 810A can be configured such that it can be removably coupled with the shoe 805 holding above-ground pool vertical frame member 215, which enables easy and convenient installation of the above-ground pool 200 and easy and convenient deconstruction of above-ground pool 200. In alternative embodiments, the loop strap 810A can be permanently affixed to shoe 805 for a convenient and easy construction with the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215. As shown in the embodiment in FIG. 8, after installation, loop strap 810A can provide a stable and secure connection between the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 of the above-ground pool frame 205 and the pool liner 220 of the above-ground pool 200.
[0042] FIG. 9 is an illustration of a portion of the side of an above-ground pool 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in the embodiment in FIG. 9, the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 can be coupled to the bottom of the pool liner 220 with a pulling sheet 905. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the pulling sheet 905 can be configured to couple with the shoe 805 into which the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 is inserted. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the shoe 805 into which the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 is inserted can be coupled to a pulling sheet 905. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, the pulling sheet 905 can be configured to extend beneath the pool liner 220. In some embodiments, pulling sheet 905 can extend the full diameter of the above-ground pool 200 and pulling sheet 905 can connect two above-ground pool vertical frame members 215 on opposite sides of the above-ground pool 200. In these embodiments, the pulling sheet 905 can be configured beneath the pool liner and may not be attached to the pool liner. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the user constructs the above-ground pool 200 by inserting the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 into shoe 805, placing the pulling sheet 905 at least partially under the pool liner 220, and coupling the pulling sheet 905 to the shoe 805. In this embodiment, once the above-ground pool 200 is filled with water, the weight of the water can apply force to the pulling sheet 905. In other embodiments, the pulling sheet 905 does extend for the full diameter of the above-ground pool 200. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, the pulling sheet 905 is not physically attached to the pool liner 220, and just the weight of the water in the pool is used to restrict the movement of the pulling sheet 905. In other embodiments, the pulling sheet 905 can be coupled to the pool liner 220. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that numerous attachment techniques can be used to couple the pulling sheet 905 with the pool liner 220, including RF welding, heat welding, attachment with an adhesive, or physical attachment with a fastening mechanism. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, the pulling sheet 905 can aid in resisting forces applied to above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 once the above-ground pool 200 is filled with water. As shown in the embodiment in FIG. 9, after installation, pulling sheet 905 can provide a stable and secure connection between the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 of the above-ground pool frame 205 and the pool liner 220 of the above-ground pool 200.
[0043] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a portion of the side of a pulling sheet 905 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in the embodiment in FIG. 10, one end of the pulling sheet 905 can provide a tab 1005 configured to be coupled with the shoe 805. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, tab 1005 provides an aperture into which a portion of the shoe 805 can be inserted and then coupled to remainder of the tab 1005. Furthermore, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 can be inserted into the shoe 805. Accordingly, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215, shoe 805, and pulling sheet 905 can be removably coupled together. Therefore, with some embodiments of the present disclosure, pulling sheet 905 can be configured such that it can be removably coupled with the shoe 805 holding above-ground pool vertical frame member 215, which enables easy and convenient installation of the above-ground pool 200 and easy and convenient deconstruction of above-ground pool 200.
[0044] FIG. 11 is an illustration of a portion of the side of a pulling sheet 905 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in the embodiment in FIG. 11, one end of the pulling sheet 905 can provide a tab 1105 configured to be coupled with the shoe 805. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, tab 1105 provides four apertures for receiving a bottom plate 1110. As shown in the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the bottom plate can be coupled with the tab 1105 of the pulling sheet 905 and screws can be inserted to couple the bottom plate 1110, tab 1105 and the shoe 805 together. Furthermore, as shown in the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 can be inserted into the shoe 805. Accordingly, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215, shoe 805, bottom plate 1110, and pulling sheet 905 can be removably coupled together. Therefore, with some embodiments of the present disclosure, pulling sheet 905 can be configured such that it can be removably coupled with the shoe 805 holding above-ground pool vertical frame member 215, which enables easy and convenient installation of the above-ground pool 200 and easy and convenient deconstruction of above-ground pool 200.
[0045] FIGS. 12A-12B are illustrations of a portion of the side of an above-ground pool 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12A, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 may include a coupling ring 1405 and connector ring 1415. The above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 may be comprised of a metal such as stainless steel, a steel alloy, aluminum, or combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 may be comprised of a plastic such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, nylon, high-density polyethylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyurethane, silicone, or combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 may be comprised of both a metal and plastic. For example, a metallic above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 may be coated with plastic. In certain embodiments, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 may have a figure-eight or lemniscate shape, which may be formed by bending a planner figure-eight or lemniscate at the intersection of its two loops. The coupling ring 1405 and connector ring 1415 may be angled with respect to each other. In some embodiments, a plane coinciding with the coupling ring 1405 may be angled at 90 with respect to a plane coinciding with the connector ring 1415. In some embodiments, the plane coinciding with the coupling ring 1405 may be angled from 45 to 135, 55 to 125, 60 to 120, 65 to 115, 70 to 110, 75 to 105, 80 to 100, or 85 to 95 with respect to a plane coinciding with the connector ring 1415. In some embodiments, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 is comprised of a single rod or wire bent or twisted to have the figure-eight or lemniscate shape. In other embodiments, the coupling ring 1405 and connector ring 1415 are each fabricated and attached to one another, for example, through a welding process.
[0046] In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the coupling ring 1405 is configured to receive the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 of the above-ground pool frame 205 through coupling ring opening 1435 of the coupling ring 1205. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12A, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 can include a connector ring 1415 comprising a connector ring opening 1425 located therein. As seen in FIG. 12B, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 is engaged with the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215. In order for the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 to receive the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215, the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 passes through the coupling ring opening 1435 of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230.
[0047] FIGS. 13A-13D provide a step-by-step illustration of coupling the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 with the above-ground pool 200 in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0048] As can be seen in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 13A, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 includes coupling ring 1405 and connector ring 1415. Additionally, the coupling ring 1405 comprises a coupling ring opening 1435 and connector ring 1415 comprises a connector ring opening 1425.
[0049] As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13B, the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 is inserted within the coupling ring 1405 of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230. Once the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 has received the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215, an end of the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 is inserted into an opening located in shoe 805. In this configuration, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 may slide along the length of the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215. In some embodiments, the shoe 805 prevents the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 from sliding off an end of the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215.
[0050] As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13C, the connector ring 1415 of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 can be slotted into a connector receiving aperture 310 located between the band 225 and the pool liner 220 of the above-ground pool 200. In some embodiments, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 is slid in a downward direction such that the connector ring 1415 is positioned between the band 225 and pool liner 220.
[0051] As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13D, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 can be configured to removably couple the band 225 and the pool liner 220 to the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 of the above-ground pool frame 205. In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, once the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 is coupled to the band 225 it can increase the stability of the above-ground pool 200. Additionally, while in the coupled configuration, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 is supported by the band 225. Therefore, with some embodiments of the present disclosure, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 can be configured such that it can be removably inserted into the connector receiving aperture 310, which enables easy and convenient installation of the above-ground pool 200 and easy and convenient deconstruction of above-ground pool 200. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 14A, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 may be configured to be removably slid into the connector receiving aperture 310. In some embodiments, the connector receiving aperture 310 may be defined by the band 225, pool liner 220, and band attachment points 305. In some embodiments, each above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 may be associated with two band attachment points 305. In some embodiments, the band attachment point 305 may connect the band 225 and pool liner 220. The band attachment point 305 may comprise a welding or stitching connecting the band 225 and pool liner 220. In some embodiments, the band attachment point 305 may comprise multiple parallel weld lines or stitching line. In some embodiments, each band attachment point 305 may span the entire height of the band 225. In other embodiments, each band attachment point 305 may span only a portion of the height of the band 225.
[0052] In some embodiments, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 may be fabricated through a wire drawing process. For example, a metal precursor object through at least one die to produce a metal wire, where a cross section of the metal wire is smaller than a cross section of the metal precursor object. The metal wire may then be cut according to a length of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230. The severed metal wire may then be twisted and bent according to the desired configuration of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230. For example, a connector ring 1415 may be bent to an angle ranging from 45 to 135, 55 to 125, 60 to 120, 65 to 115, 70 to 110, 75 to 105, 80 to 100, or 85 to 95 with respect to the coupling ring 1405. In some embodiments, the metal wire may be coated prior to cutting the metal wire. The present disclosure relates to a method for coating a metal wire, comprising the following steps: First, a plastic material is introduced into an extruder. The plastic material is then subjected to heating within the extruder to form a molten plastic. Subsequently, the metal wire is directed through the extruder, wherein the alignment of the metal wire with an extruder die is facilitated by a guide. The molten plastic is conveyed through the extruder such that it surrounds at least a portion of the guide. Finally, the metal wire is coated with the molten plastic, resulting in a coated metal wire that exits the extruder die. This method ensures that the metal wire is uniformly coated with the molten plastic, thereby enhancing its protective and functional characteristics.
[0053] As shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 14B, the band attachment points 305 are configured to restrict the horizontal or circumferential movement of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 while in the coupled configuration. By doing so, the stability of the above-ground pool 200 is improved. Specifically, because the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 connects the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 to the connector receiving aperture 310, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 is able to absorb greater forces as compared to configurations in the prior art where the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 is directly slotted into a connector receiving aperture 310.
[0054] As can be seen in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 15A, the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 may be inserted within the coupling ring 1405 of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230. Once the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 has received the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215, an end of the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 is inserted into an opening located in shoe 805. In some embodiments, the above-ground pool 200 comprises at least one band segment section 1225. In some embodiments, the above-ground pool 200 comprises a plurality of band segment sections 1225. In some embodiments, the number of band segment sections of the plurality of band segment sections 1225 may be two, four, six, eight, or ten. In some embodiments, each band segment section of the at least one band segment section 1225 may be spaced apart from at least one adjacent band segment section 1225 by regular, fixed intervals circumferentially around the pool liner 220. In other words, in some embodiments there are gaps in a circumferential direction located between each band segment section of the plurality of band segment sections 1225. Each band segment section of the at least one band segment section 1225 may be affixed or connected to the pool liner 220. Specifically, in some embodiments, each band segment section of the at least one band segment section 1225 comprises at least one band attachment point 1305 comprising a welding or stitching connecting each band segment section of the at least one band segment sections 1225 to the pool liner 220. In some embodiments, there are two band attachment points 1305 for each band segment section of the at least one band segment sections 1225.
[0055] As can be seen in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 15B, the connector ring 1415 of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 can be slotted into the connector receiving aperture 1310 located between each band segment section of the at least one band segment section 1225 and the pool liner 220 of the above-ground pool 200. In some embodiments, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 is slid in a downward direction such that the connector ring 1415 is positioned between the band segment section 1225 of the at least one band segment sections 1225 and pool liner 220.
[0056] As can be seen in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 15C, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 can be configured to removably couple the band segment section 1225 of the at least one band segment section 1225 and the pool liner 220 to the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 of the above-ground pool frame 205. In some embodiments, each above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 corresponds to each band segment section 1225 of the at least one band segment section 1225. Additionally, according to some embodiments, the number of band segment sections 1225 of the at least one band segment section 1225 corresponds to the number of the above-ground pool vertical frame members 215.
[0057] FIG. 16 is an illustration of a portion of the side of an above-ground pool 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As can be seen in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 16, the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 may include a coupling ring 1405 and a connector ring 1415. The above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 depicted in FIG. 16 is substantially the same as the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 depicted in FIGS. 12A and 12B, with the following description focusing primarily on the differences therebetween.
[0058] In the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 depicted in FIG. 16, the coupling ring 1405 and the connector ring 1415 are connected by a flex slot 1410. Specifically, the coupling ring opening of the coupling ring 1405 and the connector ring opening of the connector ring 1415 can be in communication with each other through the flex slot 1410. The transverse dimension of the flex slot 1410 (i.e., the dimension perpendicular to the vertical frame member 215) may be smaller than the transverse dimensions of the coupling ring 1405 and the connector ring 1415. The coupling ring 1405, the flex slot 1410, and the connector ring 1415 may form a shape resembling an hourglass. The above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 may also be formed by bending or twisting a single rod or wire.
[0059] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the flex slot 1410 of the above-ground pool band-frame connector device 1230 is configured to allow for expansion and contraction of the coupling ring 1405; thereby, enabling the coupling ring 405 to expand to receive the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 upon insertion of the vertical fame member 215 upon the construction of the above-ground pool frame 205 or to expand to allow removal of the above-ground pool vertical frame member 215 from the above-ground pool frame 205 upon deconstruction of the above-ground pool frame 205.
[0060] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the body of the connector ring 1415 (i.e., the ring portion defining the connector ring opening 1425) is configured in a wavy shape to increase the friction between the connector ring 1415 and the band 225 when the connector ring 1415 is inserted into the connector receiving aperture 310 between the band 225 and the pool liner 220 of the above-ground pool 200 and to prevent the connector ring 1415 from disengaging from the connector receiving aperture 310 during use.
[0061] The foregoing outlines features of several embodiments of the present disclosure so that those skilled in the art may better understand the aspects of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that they may readily use the present disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures for carrying out the same purposes and/or achieving the same advantages of the embodiments introduced herein. Those skilled in the art should also realize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that they may make various changes, substitutions, and alterations herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
