ABOVE-GROUND FRAME POOL

Abstract

 There is provided an above-ground frame pool (1). The above-ground frame pool comprises an enclosure (30), a plurality of horizontal pipes (12) interfaced with the enclosure proximate an open top of the enclosure, a plurality of U-shaped supports (14), and a plurality of secondary supports. The enclosure comprises a flexible liner (2), and the flexible liner defines a water cavity.

Description

Related Applications

[0001] This application is related to Chinese Application No. 2023203440313, filed February 28, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

Field of the Disclosure

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a swimming pool, and in particular to a swimming pool with a flexible liner and support frame. The present disclosure also relates to an above-ground frame pool or an above-ground frame swimming pool.

Background of the Disclosure

[0003] Above-ground swimming pools are generally divided into two types: Inflatable swimming pools and frame swimming pools. An inflatable swimming pool may include inflatable sidewalls, which form an area to accommodate water, or self-rising pools with a top inflatable ring. A frame swimming pool may include a flexible enclosure and a support frame. The support frame supports the flexible enclosure, thereby forming a water cavity inside the flexible enclosure to accommodate water.

[0004] These traditional above-ground swimming pools have drawbacks. For example, once adults are in a sitting position, it is difficult to see the children inside the pool. However, it is desirable for adults to be able to see the inside of the swimming pool at any time, as this provides a way for adults to observe what is happening inside the pool without the need to enter the pool. For example, parents can observe their children swimming in the pool without getting wet. Similarly, people in the swimming pool, such as children, can see and communicate with people outside the pool, which can increase the children's sense of security.

[0005] Windows and portholes can provide this function. But traditionally, above-ground swimming pools do not have windows or portholes. Existing swimming pools with transparent sidewalls, especially those with portholes or windows, have encountered several quality related obstacles. Usually, for example, portholes and windows lack sufficient structural integrity and often leak or decrease the structural strength of the enclosure, thereby shortening the service life of the swimming pool.

Summary of the Disclosure

[0006] The present disclosure provides a swimming pool or an above-ground swimming pool such as a swimming pool with a flexible liner and a support frame. The swimming pool optionally may include one or more transparent observation windows. In embodiments, a support structure may increase the strength of the transparent observation window section and make it less prone to leakage due to collapse and deformation.

[0007] The present disclosure provides an above-ground frame pool with one or more transparent observation windows comprising a swimming pool support frame, an enclosure, and a support structure. The present disclosure provides an above-ground frame pool comprising one or more transparent observation windows, wherein the above-ground frame pool comprises a swimming pool support frame, an enclosure, and a support structure. The enclosure may be supported by the swimming pool support frame and may be provided with an opening having an outer perimeter. The outer perimeter of the opening may be fixedly connected to a transparent film to form the transparent observation window. The enclosure may be connected to the swimming pool support frame through the support structure proximate the transparent observation window to support the transparent observation window.

[0008] The support structure may comprise a support pipe and a connecting member for connecting the support pipe to the swimming pool support frame. The enclosure may further comprise a sleeve positioned proximate the transparent observation window. The support pipe may penetrate the sleeve, and the support pipe may comprise an insertion hole for receiving the connecting member, and the sleeve may comprise an opening aligned with the insertion hole of the support pipe.

[0009] The connecting member may comprise a connecting joint and an anchor sleeve. The anchor sleeve may be removably coupled to the swimming pool support frame. One end of the connecting joint may be connected to the anchor sleeve. Another end of the connecting joint may be received within the insertion hole of the support pipe through the opening in the sleeve.

[0010] One end of the connecting joint may be sleeved on the anchor sleeve.

[0011] The connecting member may comprise an inclined support pipe welded to the swimming pool support frame. The inclined support pipe may be removably received within the insertion hole of the support pipe through the opening in the sleeve.

[0012] The connecting member may comprise a fixed joint, a fixed base, and an inclined supporting pipe. The fixed joint may be removably connected to the swimming pool support frame. The fixed base may be sleeved on the fixed joint. One end of the inclined supporting pipe may be removably connected to the fixed joint. The other end may be removably connected to the insertion hole of the support pipe through the opening in the sleeve. The fixed joint may be a C-shaped fixed joint.

[0013] An outer side of the fixed joint may be provided with a wedge-shaped clamp block. The fixed base may be provided with a mount that receives the wedge-shaped clamp block. The fixed j oint may be a C-shaped fixed joint.

[0014] The enclosure may comprise a plurality of securing straps extending outward from a bottom of the enclosure. Each of the plurality of securing straps may include a pocket. The swimming pool support frame may comprise a plurality of U-shaped supports and a plurality of horizontal pipes. Each of the plurality of U-shaped supports may include an open end, a closed end, and two support arms joined at the closed end and extending upwards therefrom to the open end. A corresponding connecting member may be coupled to each of the plurality of U-shaped stand pipes. Each of the plurality of horizontal pipes may include a plurality of openings for receiving the two support arms of a corresponding U-shaped support. The closed end of each of the plurality of U-shaped supports may be received by the pocket of a corresponding securing strap of the plurality of securing straps.

[0015] The present disclosure provides an above-ground frame pool. The above-ground frame pool may be adapted to be positioned on a support. The above-ground frame pool may comprise an enclosure, a plurality of horizontal pipes interfaced with the enclosure proximate an open top of the enclosure, a plurality of U-shaped supports, and a plurality of secondary supports. The plurality of horizontal pipes may be received by a top edge or portion of the enclosure. For example, the top edge of the enclosure may be folded to form a pocket or a sleeve for receiving the horizontal pipes. The enclosure may comprise a flexible liner, and the flexible liner may define a water cavity. Each of the plurality of U-shaped supports may comprise a horizontal base positioned proximate a lower portion of the enclosure and two primary legs extending upwards from the horizontal base and coupled to the plurality of horizontal pipes. Each of the U-shaped supports may be angled relative to vertical with the horizontal base being further from the enclosure than an upper portion of the two primary legs. The U-shaped supports may extend vertically downward at an angle such that the U-shaped supports are non-perpendicular to the support or the ground. Each of the plurality of secondary supports may include a base positioned proximate the lower portion of the enclosure and an upper portion interfacing with the enclosure between the horizontal pipes and the lower portion of the enclosure. The upper portion of each secondary support may directly or indirectly abut the enclosure at an intermediate point between a top portion of the enclosure and the lower portion of the enclosure. Each of the secondary supports may reinforce the enclosure at an intermediate point between the horizontal pipes and the lower portion of the enclosure. Each of the secondary supports may be angled relative to vertical with the base being further from the enclosure than the upper portion of the secondary support. The secondary supports may extend vertically downward at an angle such that the secondary supports are non-perpendicular to the support or the ground. The secondary supports may extend vertically downward at an angle to the enclosure such that the secondary supports are non-perpendicular to the support or the ground.

[0016] Each of the plurality of horizontal pipes may comprise a plurality of openings for receiving the two primary legs of a corresponding U-shaped support.

[0017] The enclosure may further comprise a connecting sleeve formed at an upper edge of the enclosure. The plurality of horizontal pipes may be received within the connecting sleeve. The connecting sleeve may comprise a plurality of openings aligned with the plurality of openings of the horizontal pipes.

[0018] The above-ground frame pool may further comprise a plurality of securing straps coupled to the flexible liner and extending outwards therefrom. Each of the plurality of securing straps may comprise a connecting sleeve. The horizontal base of each of the plurality of U-shaped supports may be received within a corresponding connecting sleeve of the plurality of securing straps.

[0019] Each of the plurality of secondary supports may be coupled to a corresponding U-shaped support of the plurality of U-shaped supports. Each secondary support may extend from the corresponding U-shaped support toward the water cavity.

[0020] Each primary leg may comprise a swage, and each of the plurality of secondary supports may comprise an anchor sleeve. The anchor sleeve of the secondary support may be removably coupled to the swage of the primary leg.

[0021] Each of the plurality of secondary supports may further comprise a connecting joint sleeved on the anchor sleeve. The connecting joint may comprise an inclined support arm that extends between the primary leg and the water cavity.

[0022] Each of the plurality of secondary supports may comprise an inclined support arm. The inclined support arm may extend between the primary leg and the water cavity. The inclined support arm may be welded to the primary leg.

[0023] Each of the plurality of secondary supports may comprise a fixed j oint, a fixed base, and an inclined support arm. The fixed joint may be removably connected to the horizontal base of the U-shaped support. The fixed base may be sleeved on the fixed joint. A first end of the inclined support arm may be received within the fixed joint. The inclined support arm may extend between the horizontal base of the U-shaped support and the water cavity. The fixed joint may be a C-shaped fixed joint.

[0024] The above-ground frame pool may further comprise an intermediate connecting sleeve and an intermediate pipe. The intermediate connecting sleeve may be positioned between the lower portion of the enclosure and the upper portion of the enclosure. The intermediate pipe may be received within the intermediate connecting sleeve and may comprise a plurality of openings. Each of the plurality of openings may be positioned to receive a corresponding inclined support arm of a corresponding secondary support. The intermediate connecting sleeve may comprise a plurality of openings aligned with the plurality of openings of the intermediate pipe.

[0025] The above-ground frame pool may further comprise a transparent window positioned at an intermediate point of the flexible liner. The transparent window may comprise an opening formed in the flexible liner and a transparent film covering the opening. The transparent film may fluidly seal the opening to prevent water from leaking from the water cavity to a surrounding environment through the transparent window.

[0026] The frame may further comprise a plurality of corner joints. Each of the plurality of corner joints may comprise two opposing ends, and each of the opposing ends may be configured to movably couple to a corresponding horizontal pipe of the plurality of horizontal pipes.

[0027] Each opposing end of the plurality of corner joints may be telescopically received within an open end of the corresponding horizontal pipe of the plurality of horizontal pipes.

[0028] Each opposing end of the plurality of corner joints may telescopically receive an end of the corresponding horizontal pipe of the plurality of horizontal pipes.

[0029] The present disclosure provides an above ground frame pool comprising an enclosure, a frame, and a plurality of secondary supports. The enclosure may comprise a flexible liner that defines a water cavity. The frame may be configured to support the enclosure. The frame may comprise a plurality of horizontal pipes and a plurality of main supports. Each of the plurality of main supports may comprise a first end and a second end. Each of the plurality of main supports may be releasably coupled to a corresponding horizontal pipe at the first and. Each of the plurality of main supports may be supported on the ground at the second end. Each of the plurality of secondary supports may be coupled to a corresponding main support at a point intermediate of the first and the second end of the main support. Each secondary support may be configured to engage the flexible liner at a position between the plurality of horizontal pipes and the ground.

[0030] The present disclosure provides a method of assembling an above-ground frame pool. The method may comprise introducing a horizontal pipe into an upper sleeve formed in a flexible liner of the above-ground frame pool. The method may comprise coupling a corner joint to the horizontal pipe such that the corner joint is movably coupled to the horizontal pipe. The method may comprise introducing a horizontal base of a U-shaped support into a pocket of a securing strap. The securing strap may be connected to a bottom of the flexible liner, The method may comprise introducing an end of a U-shaped support into an opening in the horizontal pipe. The method may comprise coupling a secondary support to the U-shaped support. The secondary support may extend from the U-shaped support toward the flexible liner.

[0031] The step of coupling the secondary support to the U-shaped support may further comprise the step of welding a first end of the secondary support to a primary leg of the U-shaped support.

[0032] The method may further comprise the step of introducing an intermediate pipe into an intermediate connecting sleeve connected to the flexible liner of the above-ground frame pool. The method may comprise introducing a second end of the secondary support into an opening in the intermediate pipe.

[0033] The step of coupling the secondary support to the U-shaped support may further comprise the step of connecting an anchor sleeve of the secondary support to a swage of a primary leg of the U-shaped support. The step of coupling the secondary support to the U-shaped support may further comprise sleeving a connecting joint of the secondary support on the anchor sleeve of the secondary support.

[0034] The method may further comprise the step of introducing an intermediate pipe into an intermediate connecting sleeve formed in the flexible liner of the above-ground frame pool. The method may further comprise the step of introducing a free end of the secondary support into an opening in the intermediate pipe.

[0035] The step of coupling the secondary support to the U-shaped support may further comprise the step of connecting a fixed joint to a horizontal base of the U-shaped support. The step of coupling the secondary support to the U-shaped support may further comprise sleeving a fixed base on the fixed joint. The step of coupling the secondary support to the U-shaped support may further comprise introducing a first end of an inclined support pipe into the fixed j oint. The fixed j oint may be a C-shaped fixed joint.

[0036] The method may further comprise the step of introducing an intermediate pipe into an intermediate connecting sleeve connected to the flexible liner of the above-ground frame pool. The method may further comprise the step of introducing a free end of the inclined support pipe into an opening in the intermediate pipe.

[0037] The step of coupling the corner joint to the horizontal pipe may further comprise introducing an end of the corner joint into an open end of the horizontal pipe such that the corner joint is telescopically received within the horizontal pipe.

[0038] The step of coupling the corner joint to the horizontal pipe may further comprise introducing an end of the horizontal pipe into an open end of the corner joint such that the horizontal pipe is telescopically received within the corner joint.

[0039] The present disclosure has the following beneficial effects, among others:

[0040] The present disclosure provides an above-ground frame pool including an enclosure that defines a water cavity. Support for the enclosure may be provided by a plurality of horizontal pipes and a plurality of U-shaped supports. Additional support for the enclosure may be provided by a plurality of secondary supports, which may provide additional support to the enclosure at an intermediate point of the enclosure.

[0041] The present disclosure also provides a swimming pool with a transparent observation window, wherein the swimming pool is surrounded by a support structure connected to the swimming pool support frame at the lower part of the transparent observation window to form support for the transparent observation window. This increases the strength of the transparent observation window, making it less prone to leakage due to collapse and deformation.

[0042] Additional features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0043] 

FIG. 1 is an assembled, perspective view of an above-ground frame pool according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an assembled, perspective view of a support frame for the above-ground frame pool of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view of the support frame of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a partial exploded view of the support frame of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a corner joint of the support frame of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a corner joint and a horizontal pipe of the support frame of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the above-ground frame pool of FIG. 1 including a support structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the support structure of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a connecting member of the support structure of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the support structure of FIG. 7 along the 10-10 line;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member of the support structure of FIG. 7 along the 11-11 line;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the above-ground frame pool of FIG. 1 including a support structure according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is an exploded view of a connecting member of the support structure of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a partial exploded view of the connecting member of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the connecting member of FIG. 13 along the 15-15 line;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the above-ground frame pool of FIG. 1 including a support structure according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 is an exploded view of the support structure of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the support structure of FIG. 16 along the 18-18 line;

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the support structure of FIG. 16 along the 19-19 line;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of a fitting of the support structure of FIG. 16.

[0044] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The drawings represent embodiments of various features and components according to the present disclosure and are to scale for exemplary embodiments. Other spatial relationships may be used without departing from the present disclosure.

Detailed Description of the Embodiments

[0045] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principals of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, which are described below. The embodiments disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive or limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may utilize their teachings. It will be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. The disclosure includes any alterations and further modifications in the illustrative devices and described methods and further applications of the principles of the disclosure which would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure relates.

[0046] In the description of the present disclosure, it should be noted that the terms "up", "down", "inside", "outside", "top/bottom", etc. indicate the orientation or position relationship based on the orientation or position relationship shown in the attached drawings, only for the convenience of describing the illustrated embodiments and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or component referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, it cannot be understood as a limitation on the present disclosure. In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are only used to describe and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0047] In the description of the present disclosure, it should be noted that unless otherwise specified and limited, the terms "installation", "set with", "set/connected", "connected", etc. should be understood broadly. For example, "connected" can be a wall mounted connection, a detachable connection, or an integrated connection, can be a mechanical connection, can be an electrical connection, can be directly connected, or can be indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, can be the internal connection between two components, and for ordinary technical personnel in this field, the specific meaning of the above terms in the present disclosure can be understood in a specific situation.

[0048] The terms "couples", "coupled", "coupler", and variations thereof are used to include both arrangements wherein two or more components are in direct physical contact and arrangements wherein the two or more components are not in direct contact with each other (e.g., the components are "coupled" via at least a third component, but yet still cooperates or interact with each other).

[0049] Referring to FIGS. 1-11, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a swimming pool, illustratively an above-ground frame pool 1, with a transparent observation window 40 on each of the longitudinal sides of swimming pool 1. In some embodiments, swimming pool 1 does not include an observation window. The swimming pool 1 may comprise a swimming pool support frame 10 and an enclosure 30 that defines a water cavity 2. The swimming pool support frame 10 may be constructed of a rigid plastic, metal, another suitable corrosion-resistant material, or combinations thereof. The illustrative pool is rectangular in shape, but it is also within the scope of the present disclosure for the pool to be circular in shape, elliptical in shape, or other shapes.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 2, the swimming pool support frame 10 includes a plurality of horizonal pipes 12 positioned along the perimeter of the pool 1 and a plurality of main supports, illustratively U-shaped supports 14, extending vertically downward to support the horizontal pipes 12 relative to a support 8, such as the ground. Referring to FIG. 2., for example, U-shaped supports 14 may extend vertically downward at an angle such that U-shaped supports 14 are non-perpendicular to the support 8 or ground. A top edge of the enclosure 30 may receive the horizontal pipes 12. For example, a top edge of the enclosure 30 may be folded to form a pocket or sleeve 31 for receiving the horizontal pipes 12. As will be discussed further below, the horizontal pipes 12 and the sleeve 31 may include openings that align with one another to facilitate insertion of the U-shaped supports 14 into the horizontal pipes 12.

[0051] As shown in FIGS. 1-6, the illustrative support frame 10 also includes a plurality of corner joints 20 connecting horizontal pipes 12 to collectively define a perimeter of the swimming pool 1. Referring to FIG. 4, a collar 22 may be received on each opposing end of corner joint 20 and may be integrally formed with a protrusion 23 that is received within a corresponding groove or opening 15 in horizontal pipe 12. Collar 22, protrusion 23, and opening 15 thus serve to limit the displacement of corner joint 20 and horizontal pipe 12 relative to one another while still permitting some relative movement of the corner joint 20 and horizontal pipe 12. Thus, the corner joint 20 cannot be accidentally removed, i.e., pulled out, from the horizontal pipe 12. Moreover, a sliding plug 24 may be inserted into each open end of the corner joint 20. Sliding plug 24 may include a protrusion 25 that is received within a groove or opening 21 of corner joint 20 and a ring flange 26 that contacts the inner surface of horizontal pipe 12 when the corner joint 20 is received within the horizontal pipe 12. The sliding plug 24 remains generally stationary relative to corner joint 20 and allows the corner joint 20 to slide smoothly within horizontal pipe 12 and helps reduce direct contact between the corner joint 20 and horizontal pipe 12, which may scratch the corner joint 20 or horizontal pipe 12.

[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, each opposing end of the corner joint 20 is received within an open end of a horizontal pipe 12. However, in embodiments, the horizontal pipe 12 may just as easily be received within an open end of the corner joint 20.

[0053] Whether the corner joint 20 is received within an open end of a horizontal pipe 12 or the horizontal pipe 12 is received within an open end of the corner joint 20, the corner joint 20 and the horizontal pipes 12 are movably, e.g., telescopically, coupled to one another. As water flows within the water cavity 2 created by the enclosure 30, the flow imparts variable stresses on the horizontal pipes 12 and corner joints 20. An advantage, among others, of adopting a movable arrangement, the horizontal pipes 12 and corner joints 20 may telescopically displace relatively to one another in response to these stresses.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 1, support frame 10 includes a plurality of U-shaped supports 14 connected to the plurality of horizontal pipes 12. The U-shaped supports include a horizontal base 16 and two primary legs 18 extending upwards from the horizontal base 16. The horizontal base 16 thus defines a closed end of the U-shaped support 14, and the two primary legs define an open end of the U-shaped support. The horizontal base 16 abuts the support 8, and the two primary legs 18 are received within openings 13 in the horizontal pipes 12. It should be understood that, although the horizontal base 16 and primary legs 18 have been given unique reference numerals, the horizontal base 16 and primary legs 18 may, in practice, be monolithically formed as a single structure. Indeed, in the illustrated embodiment, U-shaped support 14 is a monolithically formed structure.

[0055] To prevent the U-shaped supports 14 from displacing in response to water flow within the water cavity 2, a plurality of outwardly extending securing straps or securing straps 32 may be coupled to the enclosure 30. As shown in FIG. 2, each securing strap 32 may extend entirely across a bottom portion of the enclosure 30 such that an end of the securing strap 32 extends from under the water cavity 2 on each side of the enclosure 30. Further, each end of the securing strap 32 may include a pocket or sleeve 34 for receiving the horizontal base 16 of a corresponding U-shaped support 14. Thus, one securing strap 32 may fix two U-shaped supports 14 on opposing sides of the water cavity 2. However, in embodiments, two separate securing straps 32 each individually coupled to enclosure 30 may instead be used to fix two U-shaped supports 14 on opposing sides of water cavity 2. A lower portion of U-shaped supports 14 resist moving outwardly due to the limit of securing straps 32 and keeping an upper portion of U-shaped supports 14 engaged with horizontal pipes 12, thus improving the stability of support frame 10 and pool 1.

[0056] Enclosure 30 may be a flexible liner constructed of a flexible plastic or another suitable waterproof material, and the flexible liner may define the water cavity 2. Enclosure 30 has an open top to allow ingress and egress relative to the water cavity 2. In the illustrated embodiment, enclosure 30 is further provided with an opening 36, and an outer perimeter of the opening 36 is fixedly connected to a transparent film 38 to form a transparent observation window 40. The transparent film 38 is fluidly sealed to the opening 36 to prevent leakage of water through the opening 36.

[0057] Enclosure 30 may be additionally connected to the swimming pool support frame 10 through a support structure 100 (see FIGS. 8-11). The support structure 100 may extend vertically downward at an angle relative to enclosure 30 such that support structure 100 is non-perpendicular to support 8 or the ground. To provide additional support to enclosure 30, support structure 100 may directly or indirectly abut enclosure 30 at an intermediate point between a top portion of the enclosure 30 and a lower portion of the enclosure 30. For example, the support structure 100 may be positioned at a lower part of the transparent observation window 40 to form support for the transparent observation window 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the support structure 100 is positioned beneath the transparent observation 40 window to support the transparent observation window 40.

[0058] As discussed above, the swimming pool 1 with a transparent observation window 40 is additionally connected to the swimming pool support frame 10 through a support structure 100 positioned at the lower part of the transparent observation window 40. The support structure 100, illustratively positioned beneath the transparent observation window 40, supports the transparent observation window 40. The support structure 100 thus reinforces the transparent observation window 40, making it less prone to leakage due to collapse and deformation.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 8, in the illustrated embodiment, the support structure 100 comprises a support pipe 102 and a connecting member 104 for connecting the support pipe 102 to the swimming pool support frame 10. In order to install the support pipe 102, the enclosure 30 is fixedly connected to a sleeve 42, illustratively positioned beneath the transparent observation window 40, and the support pipe 102 is received, i.e., sleeved, in the sleeve 42. The support pipe 102 is provided with an insertion hole 103 for receiving the connecting member 104, and the sleeve 42 includes openings 43 corresponding to the position of the insertion hole 103 of the support pipe 102. Accordingly, a free end of the connecting member 104 may extend through the aligned openings in the sleeve 42 and support pipe 102.

[0060] The connecting member 104 may comprise a connecting joint 106 and a coupler, illustratively anchor sleeve 108. As will be described further below, the anchor sleeve 108 is coupled to the swimming pool support frame 10. A first end of the connecting joint 106 is connected to the anchor sleeve 108, and a second end, i.e., the free end, is received within the insertion hole 103 of support pipe 102 through the opening 43 in sleeve 42.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 8-11, in the illustrated embodiment, connecting joint 106 is sleeved on the anchor sleeve 108. To assist the user in properly installing the connecting joint 106 on the anchor sleeve 108, the connecting joint 106 may be integrally formed with a groove 107 and the anchor sleeve 108 may be integrally formed with a protrusion 109 or vice versa. Additionally, the anchor sleeve 108 may include an open end 110, and connecting joint 106 may be integrally formed with a protrusion 111 that is received within open end 110 of anchor sleeve 108. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, protrusion 109 of anchor sleeve 108 may be received within groove 107 of connecting joint 106, and protrusion 111 of connecting joint 106 may be received within open end 110 of anchor sleeve 108. The user may then align the groove 107 with the protrusion 109 and protrusion 111 with open end 110 to ensure that the connecting joint 106 is properly positioned on the anchor sleeve 108. To support connecting joint 106, anchor sleeve 108 may also be integrally formed with a flanged end 113, and connecting joint 106 may abut flanged end 113. Connecting member 104 connects the support pipe 102 to the swimming pool support frame 10 so as to support the lower part of the transparent observation window 40 and prevent deformation and collapse of the transparent observation window 40.

[0062] As discussed above, the support frame 10 includes a plurality of U-shaped supports 14. In the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-11, each primary leg 18 of a U-shaped support 14 includes a radially concave region having a reduced diameter, illustratively swage 19. Anchor sleeve 108 of connecting member 104 is removably received on the swage 19. Anchor sleeve 108 may be integrally formed with one or more internal protrusions 112 that are received within the radially concave swage 19. Thus, when the connecting member is installed, unintentional or accidental displacement vertically, rotationally, or otherwise, of anchor sleeve 108 relative to primary leg 18 may be substantially prevented.

[0063] To install connecting member 104, a user may first slide anchor sleeve 108 into place on primary leg 18. To do so, the user may slide anchor sleeve 108 downwards from open, upper end of primary leg 18. Open end 110 may assist the user in installing anchor sleeve 108 onto primary leg 18. Anchor sleeve 108 is correctly positioned when radially concave swage 19 receives internal protrusions 112 of anchor sleeve 108 and open end 110 of anchor sleeve 108 faces the enclosure 30. Then, a user may slide connecting joint 106 over anchor sleeve 108 until connecting joint 106 abuts flanged end 113 of anchor sleeve 108. Connecting joint 106 is correctly positioned when open end 110 of anchor sleeve 108 receives protrusion 111 of connecting joint 106 and groove 107 of connecting joint 106 receives protrusion 109 of anchor sleeve 108. At this point, the open, upper ends of each primary leg 18 may be received within horizontal pie 12 via openings 13, and the free ends of connecting member 104 may be received within support pipe 102 via insertion holes 103.

[0064] To summarize, as provided above, the first end of the connecting joint 106 is sleeved on the anchor sleeve 108, and the second end of connecting joint 106 extends toward the water cavity 2. The second end of the connecting joint 106 is ultimately received in the insertion hole 103 of the support pipe 102 to support the transparent observation window 40 and prevent deformation and collapse of the transparent observation window 40.

[0065] Now referring to FIGS. 12-15, another embodiment of a support structure 200 according to the present disclosure is shown. Support frame 10 remains largely unchanged compared to the support frame 10 of the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1-11. However, in the embodiment of FIGS. 12-15, as shown in FIG. 12, the primary legs 18 of each U-shaped support 14 do not include swages 19. Rather, as will be discussed below, the connecting member 204 connects to the horizontal base 16 of each U-shaped support 14. In alternative embodiments, connecting member 204 may be supported by support 8 independent of U-shaped supports 14. In further alternative embodiments, adjacent connecting members may form U-shaped supports which are also received within sleeve 34 of securing straps 32 independent of U-shaped supports 14 or received in a second sleeve (not shown) of securing straps 32.

[0066] As shown in FIGS. 12-15, connecting member 204 may comprise a fixed joint 206, a fixed base 208, and an inclined support pipe 210. The fixed joint 206 may be integrally formed with notches or cutaways 211 to assist the user in installing the fixed joint 206. The fixed joint 206 is attached to the swimming pool support frame 10, and the fixed base 208 is installed on, illustratively sleeved on, the fixed joint 206. One end of the supporting inclined pipe 210 is removably connected to the fixed joint 206, and the other end is removably connected to the insertion hole 103 of support pipe 102 through the opening 43 in sleeve 42. Thus, connecting member 204 supports the transparent observation window 40 and prevents deformation and collapse of the transparent observation window 40. The fixed joint 206 may be a C-shaped fixed joint.

[0067] Similar to the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1-11, the swimming pool support frame 10 comprises multiple U-shaped supports 14 and horizontal pipes 12. The open end, defined by the two primary legs 18, of the U-shaped support 14 is connected to the horizontal pipe 12, and the closed end, defined by the horizontal base 16, passes through the pocket or sleeve 34 of the securing strap 32 extending outward from the bottom of the swimming pool enclosure 30.

[0068] The fixed joint 206 is clamped on the closed section of the U-shaped support 14, and the fixed base 208 is sleeved on the outer side of the fixed joint 206. To connect the fixed joint 206 and the fixed base 208, the outer side of the fixed joint 206 may be equipped with a protrusion, illustratively a wedge-shaped clamp block 207, and the fixed base 208 is equipped with an opening or groove, illustratively a mount 209, that matches the wedge-shaped clamp block 207. The fixed joint 206 may be a C-shaped fixed joint.

[0069] Referring to FIGS. 16-20, another embodiment of a support structure 300 according to the present disclosure is shown. Support structure 300 includes a connecting member, illustratively an inclined support pipe 306, which may be welded to the swimming pool support frame 10 or coupled with fasteners. A free end of the inclined support pipe 306 may be removably received within the insertion hole 103 of support pipe 102 through the opening 43 in sleeve 42. To strengthen the connection between the inclined support pipe 306 and the support pipe 102, a fitting 307 may be attached to the free end of the inclined support pipe 306. The fitting 307 may be formed with protrusions 308 that help prevent the inclined support pipe 306 from accidentally dislodging from insertion hole 103 of support pipe 102.

[0070] Similar to the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1-11, the swimming pool support frame 10 in the instant embodiment comprises multiple U-shaped supports 14 and horizontal pipes 12. The open end, defined by the two primary legs 18, of the U-shaped support 14 is connected to the horizontal pipe 12, and the closed end, defined by the horizontal base 16, passes through the securing strap 32 extending outward from the bottom of the swimming pool enclosure 30. The support pipe 306 is welded and fixed on one side of each primary leg 18 of the U-shaped support 14 facing the swimming pool enclosure 30. A second end, i.e., the free end, of the support pipe 306 is received in the insertion hole 103 of support pipe 102 through the opening 43 in sleeve 42. Thus, inclined support pipe 306 supports the transparent observation window 40 and prevents deformation and collapse of the transparent observation window 40.

Examples:

[0071] Example 1: An above-ground frame pool with or comprising a transparent observation window, the swimming pool may comprise a swimming pool support frame, an enclosure supported by the swimming pool support frame, and a support structure. The enclosure may comprise an opening having an outer perimeter. The outer perimeter of the opening may be fixedly connected to a transparent film to form the transparent observation window. The enclosure may be connected to the swimming pool support frame through the support structure proximate the transparent observation window to support the transparent observation window.

[0072] Example 2: The above-ground frame pool according to Example 1, wherein the support structure may comprise a support pipe and a connecting member for connecting the support pipe to the swimming pool support frame, and wherein the enclosure may further comprise a sleeve positioned proximate the transparent observation window, the support pipe may penetrate into the sleeve and may comprise an insertion hole for receiving the connecting member, and the sleeve may comprise an opening aligned with the insertion hole of the support pipe.

[0073] Example 3: The above-ground frame pool according to Example 2, wherein the connecting member may further comprise a connecting joint and an anchor sleeve, the anchor sleeve may be removably coupled to the swimming pool support frame, one end of the connecting joint may be connected to the anchor sleeve, and another end may be received within the insertion hole of the support pipe through the opening in the sleeve.

[0074] Example 4: The above-ground frame pool according to Example 3, wherein one end of the connecting joint may be sleeved on the anchor sleeve.

[0075] Example 5: The above-ground frame pool according to Example 2, wherein the connecting member may comprise an inclined support pipe welded to the swimming pool support frame, and the inclined support pipe may be removably received within the insertion hole of the support pipe through the opening in the sleeve.

[0076] Example 6: The above-ground frame pool according to Example 2, wherein the connecting member may comprise a fixed joint, a fixed base, and an inclined supporting pipe, the fixed joint may be removably connected to the swimming pool support frame, and the fixed base may be sleeved on the fixed joint, one end of the inclined supporting pipe may be removably connected to the fixed joint, and the other end may be removably connected to the insertion hole of the support pipe through the opening in the sleeve, wherein the fixed joint is optionally a C-shaped fixed joint.

[0077] Example 7: The above-ground frame pool according to Example 6, wherein an outer side of the fixed joint may be provided with a wedge-shaped clamp block, and the fixed base may be provided with a mount that receives the wedge-shaped clamp block, wherein the fixed joint is optionally a C-shaped fixed joint.

[0078] Example 8: The above-ground frame pool according to any one of Examples 2-7, wherein the swimming pool enclosure may further comprise a plurality of securing straps extending outward from a bottom of the swimming pool enclosure, each of the plurality of securing straps may include a pocket, and wherein the swimming pool support frame may comprise a plurality of U-shaped supports and a plurality of horizontal pipes, each of the plurality of U-shaped supports may include an open end, a closed end, and two support arms joined at the closed end and extending upwards therefrom to the open end, a corresponding connecting member may be coupled to each of the plurality of U-shaped supports, each of the plurality of horizontal pipes may include a plurality of openings for receiving the two support arms of a corresponding U-shaped supports, and the closed end of each of the plurality of U-shaped supports may be received by the pocket of a corresponding securing strap of the plurality of securing straps.

[0079] Example 9: An above-ground frame pool adapted to be positioned on a support, the above-ground frame pool may comprise an enclosure, a plurality of horizontal pipes interfaced with the enclosure proximate an open top of the enclosure, a plurality of U-shaped supports, and a plurality of secondary supports. The enclosure may comprise a flexible liner that defines a water cavity. Each of the plurality of U-shaped supports may comprise a horizontal base positioned proximate a lower portion of the enclosure and two primary legs extending upwards from the horizontal base and coupled to the plurality of horizontal pipes, each of the U-shaped supports may be angled relative to vertical with the horizontal base being further from the enclosure than an upper portion of the two primary legs. Each of the plurality of secondary supports may include a base positioned proximate the lower portion of the enclosure and an upper portion interfacing with the enclosure between the horizontal pipes and the lower portion of the enclosure, each of the secondary supports may be angled relative to vertical with the base being further from the enclosure than the upper portion of the secondary support.

[0080] Example 10: The above-ground frame pool according to Example 9, wherein each of the plurality of horizontal pipes may comprise a plurality of openings for receiving the two primary legs of a corresponding U-shaped support.

[0081] Example 11: The above-ground frame pool according to Example 10, wherein the enclosure may further comprise a connecting sleeve formed at an upper edge of the enclosure, the plurality of horizontal pipes may be received within the connecting sleeve, and the connecting sleeve may comprise a plurality of openings aligned with the plurality of openings of the plurality of horizontal pipes.

[0082] Example 12: The above-ground frame pool according to any one of Examples 9-11, may further comprise a plurality of securing straps coupled to the flexible liner and extending outwards therefrom, each of the plurality of securing straps may comprise a connecting sleeve, the horizontal base of each of the plurality of U-Shaped supports may be received within a corresponding connecting sleeve of the plurality of securing straps.

[0083] Example 13: The above-ground frame pool according to any one of Examples 9-12, wherein each of the secondary supports may be coupled to a corresponding U-shaped support of the plurality of U-shaped supports, each secondary support may extend from the corresponding U-shaped support toward the water cavity.

[0084] Example 14: The above-ground frame pool according to any one of Examples 9-13, wherein each primary leg may comprise a swage, and wherein each of the plurality of secondary supports may comprise an anchor sleeve, the anchor sleeve of the secondary support may be removably coupled to the swage of the primary leg.

[0085] Example 15: The above-ground frame pool according to Example 14, wherein each of the plurality of secondary supports may further comprise a connecting joint sleeved on the anchor sleeve, the connecting joint may comprise an inclined support arm that may extend between the primary leg and the water cavity.

[0086] Example 16: The above-ground frame pool according to any one of Example 9-13, wherein each of the plurality of secondary supports may comprise an inclined support arm extending between the primary leg and the water cavity, the inclined support arm may be welded to the primary leg.

[0087] Example 17: The above-ground frame pool according to any one of Examples 9-13, wherein each of the plurality of secondary supports may comprise a fixed joint, a fixed base, and an inclined support arm, the joint may be removably connected to the horizontal base of the U-shaped support, the fixed base may be sleeved on the fixed joint, and a first end of the inclined support arm may be received within the fixed joint, the inclined support arm may extend between the horizontal base of the U-shaped support and the water cavity, wherein the fixed joint is optionally a C-shaped fixed joint.

[0088] Example 18: The above-ground frame pool according to any one of Examples 15-17, may further comprise an intermediate connecting sleeve and an intermediate pipe, the intermediate connecting sleeve may be positioned between the lower portion of the enclosure and the upper portion of the enclosure, the intermediate pipe may be received within the intermediate connecting sleeve and may comprise a plurality of openings, each of the plurality of openings may be positioned to receive a corresponding inclined support arm of a corresponding secondary support, and the intermediate connecting sleeve may comprise a plurality of openings aligned with the plurality of openings of the intermediate pipe.

[0089] Example 19: The above-ground frame pool according to any one of Examples 9-18, may further comprise a transparent window positioned at an intermediate point of the flexible liner, the transparent window may comprise an opening formed in the flexible liner and a transparent film covering the opening, the transparent film may be fluidly sealed to the opening to prevent water from leaking from the water cavity to a surrounding environment through the transparent window.

[0090] Example 20: The above-ground frame pool according to any one of Examples 9-19, may further comprise a plurality of corner joints, each of the plurality of corner joints may comprise two opposing ends, each of the opposing ends may be configured to movably couple to a corresponding horizontal pipe of the plurality of horizontal pipes.

[0091] Example 21: The above-ground frame pool according to Example 20, wherein each opposing end of the plurality of corner joints may be telescopically received within an open end of the corresponding horizontal pipe of the plurality of horizontal pipes.

[0092] Example 22: The above-ground frame pool according to Example 20, wherein each opposing end of the plurality of corner joints may telescopically receive an end of the corresponding horizontal pipe of the plurality of horizontal pipes.

[0093] Example 23: An above-ground frame pool adapted to be positioned on a support, the above-ground frame pool may comprise an enclosure, a frame configured to support the enclosure, and a plurality of secondary supports. The enclosure may comprise a flexible liner that defines a water cavity. The frame may comprise a plurality of horizontal pipes and a plurality of main supports, each of the plurality of main supports may comprise a first end and a second end, each of the plurality of main supports may be releasably coupled to a corresponding horizontal pipe at the first end, and each of the plurality of main supports may be adapted to be supported on the ground at the second end. Each of the plurality of secondary supports may be coupled to a corresponding main support at a point intermediate of the first end and the second end of the main support, and each secondary support may be configured to engage the flexible liner at a position between the plurality of horizontal pipes and a lower extreme of the enclosure.

[0094] Example 24: A method of assembling an above-ground frame pool may comprise introducing a horizontal pipe into an upper sleeve formed in a flexible liner of the above-ground frame pool, coupling a corner joint the horizontal pipe such that the corner joint is movably coupled to the horizontal pipe, introducing a horizontal base of a U-shaped support into a pocket of a securing strap, the securing strap connected to a bottom of the flexible liner, introducing an end of a U-shaped support into an opening in the horizontal pipe, and coupling a secondary support to the U-shaped support, the secondary support extending from the U-shaped support toward the flexible liner.

[0095] Example 25: The method according to Example 24, wherein the step of coupling the secondary support to the U-shaped support may further comprise the step of welding a first end of the secondary support to a primary leg of the U-shaped support.

[0096] Example 26: The method according to Example 25, may further comprise the steps of introducing an intermediate pipe into an intermediate connecting sleeve connected to the flexible liner of the above-ground frame pool, and introducing a second end of the secondary support into an opening in the intermediate pipe.

[0097] Example 27: The method according to Example 24, wherein the step of coupling the secondary support to the U-shaped support may further comprise the steps of connecting an anchor sleeve of the secondary support to a swage of a primary leg of the U-shaped support, and sleeving a connecting joint of the secondary support on the anchor sleeve of the secondary support.

[0098] Example 28: The method according to Example 27, may further comprise the steps of introducing an intermediate pipe into an intermediate connecting sleeve formed in the flexible liner of the above-ground frame pool, and introducing a free end of the secondary support into an opening in the intermediate pipe.

[0099] Example 29: The method according to Example 24, wherein the step of coupling the secondary support to the U-shaped support may further comprise the steps of connecting a fixed joint to a horizontal base of the U-shaped support, sleeving a fixed base on the fixed joint, and introducing a first end of an inclined support pipe into the fixed joint, wherein the fixed joint is optionally a C-shaped fixed joint.

[0100] Example 30: The method according to Example 29, may further comprise the steps of introducing an intermediate pipe into an intermediate connecting sleeve connected to the flexible liner of the above-ground frame pool, and introducing a free end of the inclined support pipe into an opening in the intermediate pipe.

[0101] Example 31: The method according to Example 24, wherein the step of coupling the corner joint to the horizontal pipe may further comprise introducing an end of the corner joint into an open end of the horizontal pipe such that the corner joint is telescopically received within the horizontal pipe.

[0102] Example 32: The method according to Example 24, wherein the step of coupling the corner joint to the horizontal pipe may further comprise introducing an end of the horizontal pipe into an open end of the corner joint such that the horizontal pipe is telescopically received within the corner joint.

[0103] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variation can be made in the present disclosure without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure cover the modifications and variations of this disclosure provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An above-ground frame pool adapted to be positioned on a support, the above-ground frame pool comprising:

an enclosure comprising a flexible liner that defines a water cavity;

a plurality of horizontal pipes interfaced with the enclosure proximate to an open top of the enclosure;

a plurality of U-shaped supports, each of the plurality of U-shaped supports comprising a horizontal base positioned proximate to a lower portion of the enclosure and two primary legs extending upwards from the horizontal base and coupled to the plurality of horizontal pipes, each of the U-shaped supports being angled relative to vertical with the horizontal base being further from the enclosure than an upper portion of the two primary legs, and

a plurality of secondary supports, each of the plurality of secondary supports including a base positioned proximate to the lower portion of the enclosure and an upper portion interfacing with the enclosure between the horizontal pipes and the lower portion of the enclosure, each of the secondary supports being angled relative to vertical with the base being further from the enclosure than the upper portion of the secondary support.

2. The above-ground frame pool of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of horizontal pipes comprises a plurality of openings for receiving the two primary legs of a corresponding U-shaped support.

3. The above-ground frame pool of claim 1, wherein the enclosure further comprises a connecting sleeve formed at an upper edge of the enclosure, the plurality of horizontal pipes are received within the connecting sleeve, and the connecting sleeve comprises a plurality of openings aligned with the plurality of openings of the plurality of horizontal pipes.

4. The above-ground frame pool of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a plurality of securing straps coupled to the flexible liner and extending outwards therefrom, each of the plurality of securing straps comprising a connecting sleeve, the horizontal base of each of the plurality of U-shaped supports is received within a corresponding connecting sleeve of the plurality of securing straps.

5. The above-ground frame pool of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the secondary supports are coupled to a corresponding U-shaped support of the plurality of U-shaped supports, each secondary support extending from the corresponding U-shaped support toward the water cavity.

6. The above-ground frame pool of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each primary leg comprises a swage, and wherein each of the plurality of secondary supports comprises an anchor sleeve, the anchor sleeve of the secondary support is removably coupled to the swage of the primary leg.

7. The above-ground frame pool of claim 6, wherein each of the plurality of secondary supports further comprises a connecting joint sleeved on the anchor sleeve, the connecting joint comprising an inclined support arm that extends between the primary leg and the water cavity.

8. The above-ground frame pool of any one of claims 1-5, wherein each of the plurality of secondary supports comprises an inclined support arm extending between the primary leg and the water cavity, the inclined support arm welded to the primary leg.

9. The above-ground frame pool of any one of claims 1-5, wherein each of the plurality of secondary supports comprises a fixed joint, a fixed base, and an inclined support arm, the fixed joint is removably connected to the horizontal base of the U-shaped support, the fixed base is sleeved on the fixed joint, and a first end of the inclined support arm is received within the fixed joint, the inclined support arm extending between the horizontal base of the U-shaped support and the water cavity.

10. The above-ground frame pool according to any one of claims 7-9, further comprising an intermediate connecting sleeve and an intermediate pipe, the intermediate connecting sleeve positioned between the lower portion of the enclosure and the upper portion of the enclosure, the intermediate pipe received within the intermediate connecting sleeve and comprising a plurality of openings, each of the plurality of openings positioned to receive a corresponding inclined support arm of a corresponding secondary support, the intermediate connecting sleeve comprising a plurality of openings aligned with the plurality of openings of the intermediate pipe.

11. The above-ground frame pool of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a transparent window positioned at an intermediate point of the flexible liner, the transparent window comprising an opening formed in the flexible liner and a transparent film covering the opening, the transparent film fluidly sealed to the opening to prevent water from leaking from the water cavity to a surrounding environment through the transparent window.

12. The above-ground frame pool of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a plurality of corner joints, each of the plurality of corner joints comprising two opposing ends, each of the opposing ends configured to movably couple to a corresponding horizontal pipe of the plurality of horizontal pipes.

13. The above-ground frame pool of claim 12, wherein each opposing end of the plurality of corner joints is telescopically received within an open end of the corresponding horizontal pipe of the plurality of horizontal pipes.

14. The above-ground frame pool of claim 12, wherein each opposing end of the plurality of corner joints telescopically receives an end of the corresponding horizontal pipe of the plurality of horizontal pipes.

15. A method of assembling an above-ground frame pool comprising:

introducing a horizontal pipe into an upper sleeve formed in a flexible liner of the above-ground frame pool;

coupling a corner joint to the horizontal pipe such that the corner joint is movably coupled to the horizontal pipe;

introducing a horizontal base of a U-shaped support into a pocket of a securing strap, the securing strap connected to a bottom of the flexible liner;

introducing an end of a U-shaped support into an opening in the horizontal pipe; and

coupling a secondary support to the U-shaped support, the secondary support extending from the U-shaped support toward the flexible liner.

Drawing