CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to the following applications, the disclosures of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein in their entirety:

[0002] The present disclosure relates to inflatable pool and spa combinations. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to inflatable pool and spa combinations having an enclosure with at least two cavities wherein the water of at least two of the cavities is controlled by a water and/or air control system positioned at least partially outside the enclosure. The present disclosure also relates to inflatable pool and spa combinations including support structures and/or benches, and to methods for using the same.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] Permanent swimming pools and spas require a fixed location for assembly, and they cannot be stored if they are not being used. Also, permanent swimming pools and spas are expensive and have complicated pumping, filtering, and heating equipment. Because of these characteristics, some families cannot own a permanent swimming pool and/or spa due to limited space and/or limited finances. Furthermore, sometimes adults and children want to use the swimming pool and/or spa at the same time, or in other situations, they want to use both a swimming pool and a spa. In order to do so, a family would have to buy both a swimming pool and a spa.

[0004] Inflatable swimming pools and spas can be inflated for use, and deflated for storage or transport, as needed. Because of these characteristics, inflatable swimming pools and/or spas are widely used due to their flexibility and convenience. However, inflatable swimming pools and/or spas have simplified structures and simplified functions such that they cannot satisfy a variety of needs at the same time.

[0005] Therefore, it would be beneficial to have a moveable inflatable swimming pool and spa combination, wherein the inflatable swimming pool and spa combination can be deflated and folded for storage and transport if not being used. Furthermore, it would also be beneficial for the inflatable combination to have a simplified control system for regulating the air and water of the inflatable combination and/or a support structure for preventing deformation of the inflatable combination.

SUMMARY

[0006] The present disclosure provides an inflatable pool and spa combination comprising at least two cavities configured to hold water, wherein the water of the two cavities is regulated by a control system located outside the inflatable combination.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a pool and spa

combination comprises an enclosure including at least two cavities configured to hold water, wherein at least a portion of the enclosure is inflatable, and a control system coupled to the cavities through the enclosure, wherein the control system is configured to direct at least one of air and water into the cavities from a position outside of the enclosure. [0008] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a pool and spa combination comprises an enclosure including at least two cavities configured to hold water, wherein at least a portion of the enclosure is inflatable, a support structure configured to externally support at least a portion of the enclosure, and a bench detachably coupled to the enclosure.

[0009] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for filtering water within a pool and spa combination comprises the steps of activating a filtration device having a filter, actuating a valve to open communication with a second cavity of the pool and spa combination, filtering the water from the second cavity through the filter of the filtration device for a first specified time period, actuating the valve to open communication with a first cavity of the pool and spa combination after the first specified time period, and filtering the water from the first cavity through the filter of the filtration device for a second specified time period.

[0010] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for heating water within a pool and spa combination comprises the steps of determining when a target water temperature is higher than an actual temperature of the water within a first cavity of the combination, activating a heater, actuating a valve to open communication with the first cavity, heating the water of the first cavity for a first specified time period, actuating the valve to open communication with a second cavity of the combination after the first specified time period, and heating the water of the second cavity for a second specified time period.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The above-mentioned and other features and advantages of this disclosure, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the invention itself will be better understood by reference to the following description of embodiments of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: [0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination;

[0013] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the inflatable pool and spa combination of FIG. 1;

[0014] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination;

[0015] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the inflatable pool and spa combination of FIG. 3;

[0016] FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of the inflatable pool and spa combination of

FIG. 3;

[0017] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination with a support structure;

[0018] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the inflatable pool and spa combination of FIG.

6;

[0019] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the inflatable pool and spa combination of FIG. 6;

[0020] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination with a support structure;

[0021] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the inflatable pool and spa combination of

FIG. 9;

[0022] FIG. 1 1 is an exploded perspective view of the inflatable pool and spa

combination of FIG. 9;

[0023] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination with a support structure; [0024] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the inflatable pool and spa combination of

FIG. 12;

[0025] FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of the inflatable pool and spa

combination of FIG. 12;

[0026] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination with a support structure;

[0027] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the inflatable pool and spa combination of

FIG. 15;

[0028] FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view of the inflatable pool and spa

combination of FIG. 15;

[0029] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination with a support structure;

[0030] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination with a support structure;

[0031] FIG. 20 is a bottom plan view of the inflatable pool and spa combination of FIG. 19;

[0032] FIG. 21 is a detailed view of the support structure of FIG. 19;

[0033] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the support structure of FIG. 19;

[0034] FIG. 23 is an detailed view of another embodiment of a support structure for an inflatable pool and spa combination;

[0035] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the support structure of FIG. 23; [0036] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination;

[0037] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination including a support structure and at least one bench;

[0038] FIG. 27 is a top plan view of the inflatable pool and spa combination of FIG. 26;

[0039] FIG. 28 is a bottom plan view of the inflatable pool and spa combination of FIG.

26;

[0040] FIG. 29 is an exploded perspective view of the inflatable pool and spa combination of FIG. 26;

[0041] FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of the support structure and bench of

FIG. 26;

[0042] FIG. 31 is an assembled perspective view of the support structure and bench of inflatable pool and spa combination of FIG. 26;

[0043] FIG. 32 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination including a water and air control system;

[0044] FIG. 33 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination including a water and air control system;

[0045] FIG. 34 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination including a water and air control system;

[0046] FIG. 35 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination including a water and air control system;

[0047] FIG. 36 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination including a water and air control system; [0048] FIG. 37 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination including a water and air control system;

[0049] FIG. 38 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination including a water and air control system;

[0050] FIG. 39 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination including a water and air control system;

[0051] FIG. 40 is a top plan view of an air transportation device for use with an inflatable pool and spa combination;

[0052] FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view of the air transportation device of FIG. 40;

[0053] FIG. 42 is a perspective view of the air transportation device of FIG. 40;

[0054] FIG. 43 is an exploded perspective view of the air transportation device of FIG.

42;

[0055] FIG. 44A is a cross-sectional view of a valve spool of the air transportation device in an intermediate position, wherein both air outlets are open;

[0056] FIG. 44B is a cross-sectional view of the valve spool of the air transportation device in a first position, wherein a first air outlet is open;

[0057] FIG. 44C is a cross-sectional view of the valve spool of the air transportation device in a second position, wherein an second air outlet is open;

[0058] FIG. 45 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a connecting air pipe for use with the air transportation device;

[0059] FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view of the connecting air pipe of FIG. 45; [0060] FIG. 47 is a top plan view of a water control device for use with an inflatable pool and spa combination;

[0061] FIG. 48 is an exploded perspective view of the water control device of FIG. 47;

[0062] FIG. 49 is an assembled perspective view of the water control device of FIG. 47; [0063] FIG. 50 is a side elevational view of the water control device of FIG. 47;

[0064] FIG. 51 is a side elevational view of the water control device of FIG. 47;

[0065] FIG. 52 is a cross-sectional view of the water control device of FIG. 47;

[0066] FIG. 53 A is a cross-sectional view of a valve of the water control device in a first position, wherein a second water inlet is open; and [0067] FIG. 53B is a cross-sectional view of the valve of the water control device in a second position, wherein a first water inlet is open.

[0068] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION 1. Pool and Spa Combination

[0069] Referring initially to FIGS. 1 and 2, an inflatable pool and spa combination 100 may be shown including an enclosure 106 (e.g., floor, side walls) forming a first water cavity 102 and a second water cavity 104. The enclosure 106 includes a dividing portion 107 that separates the first water cavity 102 from the second water cavity 104. [0070] Enclosure 106 may be configured in many different shapes and sizes. For instance, in various embodiments, the periphery of enclosure 106 may be a polygon. In an exemplary embodiment, the periphery of enclosure 106 is octagonal. Furthermore, first water cavity 102 and/or second water cavity 104 may be a different shape than the overall enclosure 106. For instance, in an exemplary embodiment, first and second water cavities 102, 104 are hexagonal while enclosure 106 is octagonal. In various embodiments, enclosure 106 may be shaped such that first water cavity 102 and second water cavity 104 are substantially equal in size. However, in other embodiments, the first water cavity 102 may be larger in size than the second water cavity 104, or vice versa. [0071] Additionally, in various embodiments, at least a portion of enclosure 106 may be inflatable. In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, the outer walls of enclosure 106 form a closed loop such that the outer walls of enclosure 106 are inflatable as a single chamber. It is also within the scope of the present disclosure for enclosure 106 to contain multiple inflation chambers. The dividing wall 107 may also be inflatable, either in connection with the rest of enclosure 106 or as a separate chamber.

[0072] The enclosure 106 may be constructed of a flexible material that is configured to retain water in cavities 102 and 104 and air in the inflation chambers. An exemplary material is plastic, such as PVC.

[0073] Referring now to FIGS. 3-5, another embodiment of an inflatable pool and spa combination 200 is shown including an enclosure 206 forming a first water cavity 202 and a second water cavity 204. In this embodiment, enclosure 206 may be shaped such that water cavities 202, 204 are generally round. In various embodiments, enclosure 206 may be shaped such that first water cavity 202 and/or second water cavity 204 are circular. Additionally, in various embodiments, enclosure 206 may be shaped such that second water cavity 204 and/or first water cavity 202 are oval. In an exemplary embodiment, first water cavity 202 is circular and second water cavity 204 is substantially oval. Furthermore, enclosure 206 may be shaped such that one of first water cavity 202 and second water cavity 204 is smaller in size (e.g., diameter) than the other. For example, in the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 3-5, the enclosure 206 surrounding first water cavity 202 is taller and smaller in diameter than the enclosure 206 surrounding second water cavity 204.

2. External Support Structures [0074] Referring next to FIGS. 6-8, an inflatable pool and spa combination 300 of this embodiment comprises an enclosure 306 forming a first water cavity 302 and a second water cavity 304. Enclosure 306 includes an inflatable portion 306' forming first water cavity 302, and a plastic vinyl liner 308 forming second water cavity 304. In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 6-8, plastic vinyl liner 308 is a U-shaped or C-shaped structure with a gap at one end. The gap of liner 308 receives inflatable portion 306' of first water cavity 302 such that first water cavity 302 and second water cavity 304 share a wall portion 307 of inflatable portion 306'. The mating surfaces of plastic vinyl liner 308 and inflatable portion 306' of enclosure 306 may be connected together by a number of methods, for instance high frequency welding, hot melting or adhesive methods. [0075] In various embodiments, inflatable combination 300 may further include an external support structure 310 used to support enclosure 306, specifically liner 308 of enclosure 306. Support structure 310 may comprise a plurality of generally horizontal side pipes 312 and generally vertical Y-shaped side racks 314. In various embodiments, a top edge of plastic vinyl liner 308 folds back to form connecting sleeves 316, wherein side pipes 312 are sjeeved into connecting sleeves 316 and fixed together to define the U-shaped or C-shaped structure.

Furthermore, transverse side pipe 312 may include a straight pipe 318 and a T-shaped pipe 320, wherein straight pipe 318 extends horizontally and has connecting holes at both ends, and T- shaped pipe 320 extends horizontally and has its center extending vertically to form three connecting holes. In various embodiments, T-shaped pipe 320 is connected between two adjacent straight pipes 318 in the horizontal direction and Y-shaped side rack 314 in the vertical direction. Furthermore, connecting sleeve 316 includes an opening corresponding to the connecting position of T-shaped pipe 320 and Y-shaped side rack 314. In various embodiments, horizontal side pipes 312 may be connected by rounded edge connectors 325, wherein connectors 325 are not sleeved within connection sleeves 316.

[0076] With reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, Y-shaped side rack 314 generally comprises an inner support leg 322 and an outer reinforcing leg 324. Support leg 322 is inserted into T-shaped pipe 320 and extends vertically downward. Reinforcing leg 324 extends downwardly at an incline from the middle of support leg 322 and abuts the ground to enhance the support performance. Y-shaped side racks 314 are spaced apart and arranged along the periphery of plastic vinyl liner 308, such that second water cavity 304 is disposed within the area defined by support legs 322. To avoid Y-shaped side racks 314 displacing or being inclined under the work of external force from the water, a plurality of securing straps 326 may be coupled to liner 308 and Y-shaped side racks 314. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 7, securing straps 326 extend inwardly beneath the floor of liner 308 and beneath second water cavity 304 such that the weight of the water in second water cavity 304 helps to hold securing straps 326 in place. In certain embodiments, securing straps 326 may extend several inches or several feet inwardly beneath the second water cavity 304. Securing straps 326 and the bottom portion of liner 308 may be coupled together by a melting method or other various methods of attachment. Furthermore, a portion of securing strap 326 extending outwardly from the bottom portion of second water cavity 304 may fold back to form a folding hole 332. Support leg 322 is fixed in position by running through folding hole 332 of securing strap 326. Support legs 322 resist moving outwardly due to the limit of securing straps 326, therefore making support structure 310 more stable.

[0077] Furthermore and referring to FIGS. 6 and 8, massage air holes 328 and 330 may be disposed around first water cavity 302 and second water cavity 304, respectively, and in communication with an air pump device (not shown) to form air bubbles in the water of first water cavity 302 and/or second water cavity 304 thus forming waving massage water.

Additionally, second water cavity 304 can be made of a larger area than first water cavity 302 such that it can be used for swimming. In addition, the temperature of the water in first water cavity 302 and second water cavity 304 can be different. For instance, in an exemplary embodiment, first water cavity 302 may be a spa containing hot water, while second water cavity 304 may be a swimming pool containing cool water or vice versa. Thus, inflatable combination 300 can combine water cavities 302, 304 with different functions.

[0078] Referring now to FIGS. 9-11, an inflatable pool and spa combination 400 of this embodiment comprises an enclosure 406 forming a first water cavity 402 and a second water cavity 404. Enclosure 406 includes an inflatable portion 406 and a plastic vinyl liner 408, wherein first water cavity 402 is formed from inflatable portion 406', and second water cavity 404 is defined by plastic vinyl liner 408. Liner 408 of the inflatable combination 400 is similar to liner 308 of the inflatable combination 300, except that liner 408 wraps inward at the open end or gap to mate with the shared wall portion 407.

[0079] Furthermore, inflatable pool and spa combination 400 may include a support structure 410 that supports enclosure 406, specifically liner 408 of enclosure 406. In general, support structure 410 may comprise a plurality of generally horizontal side pipes 412 and inclined U-shaped side racks 415. The top edge of plastic vinyl liner 408 can be folded back to form connecting sleeves 416, wherein horizontal side pipes 412 are sleeved within connecting sleeves 416 and fixed together to define the U-shaped or C-shaped structure. In various embodiments, horizontal side pipes 412 may be connected by rounded edge connectors 425, wherein connectors 425 are not sleeved within connection sleeves 416. Furthermore, the two upper ends of the U-shaped side rack 415 can be coupled to horizontal side pipe 412 with the U- shaped side rack 415 extending downwardly and outwardly from the horizontal side pipe 412. Connecting sleeve 416 includes an opening corresponding to the connecting position of transverse side pipe 412 and U-shaped side rack 415.

[0080] Referring still to FIGS. 9-11, the horizontal bottom end of U-shaped side rack

415 abuts the ground to support plastic vinyl liner 408. To avoid U-shaped side racks 415 from displacing or being inclined under the work of external force from the water, a plurality of outwardly extending securing straps 456 may be coupled to liner 408 and U-shaped side racks 415. Securing straps 456 may extend inwardly beneath the floor of liner 408 and beneath the second water cavity 404 such that the weight of the water in the second water cavity 404 helps to hold securing straps 456 in place. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 10, securing straps 456 are longer than the width of second water cavity 404. Thus, the two ends of securing strap 456 can extend entirely across the bottom portion of liner 408 such that an end extends out from under the second water cavity 404 on each side and may be folded back to form folding holes 432 on each side of the second water cavity 404 to receive the horizontal bottom ends of U- shaped side racks 415. Thus, one securing strap 456 fixes two U-shaped side racks 415 on opposing sides of second water cavity 404. U-shaped side racks 415 resist moving outwardly due to the limit of securing straps 456, thus making support structure 410 more stable. [0081] Furthermore, massage air holes 428 and 430 may be disposed around first water cavity 402 and second water cavity 404, respectively, and in communication with an air pump device (not shown) to form air bubbles in the water of first water cavity 402 and/or second water cavity 404 thus forming waving massage water. In various embodiments, second water cavity 404 can be made of a larger area than first water cavity 402 such that it may be used for swimming. In addition, the temperature of the water in first water cavity 402 and second water cavity 404 can be different, such that first water cavity 402 contains hot water and second water cavity 404 contains cool water or vice versa. Therefore, inflatable combination 400 may combine water cavities 402, 404 with each having different functions.

[0082] Referring next to FIGS. 12-14, an inflatable pool and spa combination 500 of this embodiment comprises an enclosure 506 forming first water cavity 502 and a second water cavity 504. In various embodiments, first water cavity 502 and second water cavity 504 may both be formed from an inflatable portion 506' separated by a dividing portion 507 such that first water cavity 502 and a second water cavity 504 are independent of each other.

[0083] In various embodiments, inflatable pool and spa combination 500 may further include a support structure 510 for additional support disposed along an outer surface of inflatable portion 506'. Support structure 510 may comprise side pipe fixation pieces or sleeves 51 1, generally horizontal side pipes 512 and generally vertical Y-shaped side racks 514. Side pipe fixation pieces 511 may be disposed along the outer surface of inflatable portion 506' of enclosure 506 and coupled to enclosure 506 via various methods, for instance a melting method. Horizontal side pipe 512 generally includes a straight pipe 518 and a T-shaped pipe 520, wherein straight pipe 518 extends horizontally and has connecting holes at both ends, and T-shaped pipe 520 extends horizontally and has its center extending vertically to form three connecting holes. Straight pipe 518 of horizontal side pipes 512 are inserted through side pipe fixation pieces 51 1, such that side pipe fixation pieces 511 are respectively sleeved with transverse side pipes 512 along the two lengthwise sides of inflatable portion 506' of enclosure 506. T-shaped pipe 520 is coupled between two adjacent straight pipes 518 in the horizontal direction and to Y-shaped side rack 514 in the vertical direction. Additionally, side pipe fixation piece 51 1 includes an opening corresponding to the connecting position of T-shaped pipe 520 and Y-shaped side rack 514.

[0084] Furthermore, Y-shaped side rack 514 generally includes an inner support leg 522 coupled to T-shaped pipe 520 and extending vertically downward and an outer reinforcing leg 524 extending downwardly at an incline from the middle of support leg 522. Thus, support legs 522 support inflatable portion 506' of enclosure 506 in the outward direction, and reinforcing legs 524 are inclined outwardly to abut the ground, so as to enhance the support performance of support structure 510. To avoid Y-shaped side racks 514 from displacing or being inclined under the work of external force from the water, a plurality of securing straps 526 may be coupled to enclosure 506 and Y-shaped side racks 514. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 13, securing straps 526 extend inwardly beneath the floor of enclosure 506 and beneath the water cavities 502, 504 such that the weight of the water in the water cavities 502, 504 helps to hold securing straps 526 in place. In certain embodiments, securing straps 526 may extend several inches or several feet inwardly beneath the water cavities 502, 504. Securing straps 526 are coupled to the floor of enclosure 506 via various coupling methods, for instance by a melting method.

Additionally, the portion of securing strap 526 extending outwardly may be folded back to form a folding hole 532. Support leg 522 runs through folding hole 532 of securing strap 526 to fix the position of support legs 522 such that support legs 522 resist moving outwardly due to the limit of securing straps 526, therefore making support structure 510 more stable. [0085] In further detail, first and second cavities 502, 504 include massage air holes 528 and 530, respectively. Massage air holes 528, 530 communicate with an air pump device (not shown) to infuse the water of first water cavity 502 and second water cavity 504 with air bubbles thereby forming waving massage water. In various embodiments, the temperature of the water in first water cavity 502 and second water cavity 504 can be different, such that one cavity contains hot or warm water while the other contains cool water. Additionally, second water cavity 504 can be made of a larger area than first water cavity 502 such that it may be used for swimming. Therefore, inflatable combination 500 may combine water cavities 502, 504 with each having different functions. [0086] Referring next to FIGS. 15-17, an inflatable pool and spa combination 600 of this embodiment includes an enclosure 606, wherein the outer wall of enclosure 606 is formed by an inflatable portion 606' and the inner cavity of enclosure 606 is separated by a dividing portion 607 to form an independent first water cavity 602 and an independent second water cavity 604.

[0087] In various embodiments, inflatable combination 600 may also include a support structure 610. Support structure 610 generally includes side pipe fixation pieces or sleeves 61 1, generally horizontal side pipes 612 and inclined U-shaped side racks 615. Side pipe fixation pieces 611 are coupled to an outer surface of inflatable portion 606' via various methods, for instance a melting method. Horizontal side pipes 612 are coupled to the outer surface of inflatable portion 606' by extending through side pipe fixation pieces 61 1 to support inflatable portion 606'. In an exemplary embodiment, the two lengthwise sides of enclosure 606 are disposed with side pipe fixation pieces 61 1 that are respectively sleeved with horizontal side pipes 612. Furthermore, U-shaped side rack 615 includes a horizontal bottom end and two vertical sides. The upper ends of the two vertical sides are fixed to transverse side pipe 612 in the vertical direction, while the horizontal bottom end of U-shaped side rack 615 abuts the ground to support inflatable portion 606' outwardly. Side pipe fixation pieces 61 1 include openings corresponding to the connecting positions of transverse side pipe 612 and U-shaped side rack 615. [0088] To avoid U-shaped side racks 615 from being displaced or being inclined under the work of external force from the water, a plurality of securing straps 636 may be coupled to enclosure 606 and the U-shaped side racks 615. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 16, securing straps 636 extend inwardly beneath the floor of enclosure 606 and beneath the water cavities 602, 604 such that the weight of the water in the water cavities 602, 604 helps to hold securing straps 636 in place. In certain embodiments, securing straps 636 may extend several inches or several feet inwardly beneath the water cavities 602, 604. Securing straps 636 and the floor of enclosure 606 may be connected together by a variety of methods, including by a melting method. Additionally, the portion of securing strap 636 extending outwardly from enclosure 606 is folded back to form a folding hole 632, wherein the horizontal bottom end of U- shaped side rack 615 runs through folding hole 632 of securing strap 636 to fix U-shaped side rack 615 in position. Therefore, U-shaped side racks 615 resist moving outwardly due to the limit of securing straps 636, thus making it more stable.

[0089] Furthermore, massage air holes 628 and 630 may be positioned around first water cavity 602 and second water cavity 604, respectively. Massage air holes 628, 630 communicate with an air pump (not shown) to infuse the water of first water cavity 602 and/or second water cavity 604 with air bubbles thereby forming waving massage water. In various embodiments, the temperature of the water in first water cavity 602 and second water cavity 604 can be different, containing warm and/or cool water. Additionally, second water cavity 604 can be made of a larger area that can be used for swimming. Thus, inflatable combination 600 may combine water cavities with different functions.

[0090] Referring now to FIG. 18, an inflatable pool and spa combination 700 of this embodiment includes an enclosure 706 that forms a first water cavity 702 and a second water cavity 704, wherein a surrounding wall of enclosure 706 is inflatable. Inflatable combination 700 differs from the previous embodiment in that side pipe fixation piece 71 1 extends downwardly and is coupled (e.g., adhered or melted) to securing straps 756. Thus, side pipe fixation piece 71 1 is coupled to enclosure 706 and also coupled to securing straps 756. Furthermore, U-shaped side racks 715 support enclosure 706 by extending upwardly at an incline and abutting the side wall of inflatable enclosure 706. Thus, U-shaped side racks 715 resist moving under the work of side pipe fixation piece 71 1 in the vertical direction and securing straps 756 in the horizontal direction. Additionally, securing straps 756 extend the width of enclosure 706 such that each end of securing straps 756 is folded over to form a folding hole 732. Further, in this arrangement, it is possible for neither side pipe fixation piece 71 1, nor securing straps 756, nor support structure 710 to be fixedly coupled to inflatable enclosure 706. Therefore, side pipe fixation piece 71 1, securing straps 736 and support structure 710 can be used as independent products to be assembled to existing water cavities, wherein the existing water cavities do not need to be changed. [0091] Referring next to FIGS. 19-22, an inflatable pool and spa combination 800 of this embodiment includes an enclosure 806 forming a first water cavity 802 and a second water cavity 804, wherein enclosure 806 is inflatable. In various embodiments, inflatable pool and spa combination 800 may further include a supporting structure 810, which may be arranged at both sides of inflatable enclosure 806 as shown in FIG. 20. Support structure 810 may comprise a foot support 834 for supporting on the ground, a securing strap 836 for holding foot support 834, a generally horizontal side pipe 838 for coupling foot support 834 to inflatable enclosure 806, and a side pipe sleeve 840 for holding side pipe 838.

[0092] Support foot 834 comprises a U-shaped base body 842 that extends horizontally outward from enclosure 806 and connecting arms 844 that extend vertically alongside enclosure 806, such that U-shaped base body 842 is oriented about 90 degrees from connecting arms 844. U-shaped base body 842 can hold up horizontally on the ground and includes openings at the two sides that are coupled to connecting arms 844 which are bent and extended vertically upward. In various embodiments, one end of securing straps 836 can be pressed under enclosure 806, while the other end of securing straps 836 are bent inward and connected to form a folding hole 832 which is sleeved over U-shaped base body 842, so that foot support 834 can be steadily supported by securing strap 836. In a preferred embodiment, the end of securing strap 836 is coupled together with the bottom of enclosure 806. [0093] Furthermore, the two symmetrical edges of side pipe sleeve 840 are welded together to form a sleeve hole 846 and connected to the outer side wall of enclosure 806 horizontally. In a preferred embodiment, side pipe sleeve 840 is welded to the outer side wall of enclosure 806. Side pipe 838 is a straight pipe and inserted into sleeve hole 846 of side pipe sleeve 840.

[0094] Support structure 810 may further include a plug 848 arranged at the bottom of side pipe 838, where side pipe 838 corresponds with connecting arms 844. Plug 848 is used to couple connecting arm 844 in a plugging and detachable manner to side pipe 838. Plug 848 may be a separate piece coupled to side pipe 838. In various embodiments, plug 848 may be formed into side pipe 838 such that the straight pipe and plug form a single piece.

[0095] Referring now to FIGS. 23 and 24, support structure 810 may instead include a side pipe strap 840a that is a long strip similar to securing strap 836, where one end of side pipe strap 840a is connected to securing strap 836 and the other end is bent inward and welded to form a sleeve hole 846 which is sleeved onto side pipe 838. In various embodiments, side pipe sleeve 840a and securing strap 836 may be welded together and/or pressed together under the weight of inflatable enclosure 806.

[0096] With reference to FIG. 25, foot support securing strap 856 of supporting structures 810 may be a single long strap, wherein the ends are folded inward to form folding holes 832 at the two sides of enclosure 806. In a preferred embodiment, the foot support securing strap 856 is welded together with the bottom of enclosure 806.

3. Benches

[0097] Referring to FIGS. 26-31 , an inflatable pool and spa combination 900 comprises an enclosure 906 forming a first water cavity 902 and a second water cavity 904, a bench 950 and a support structure 910, wherein enclosure 906 is inflatable and support structure 910 is connected between enclosure 906 and bench 950 and bench 950 is detachably coupled to support structure 910. Support structure 910 may be similar to support structure 810 described above. [0098] Bench 950 is positioned outside enclosure 906. Generally, bench 950 is a long, narrow bench with rounded corners having a height that is less than that of enclosure 906. In various embodiments, bench 950 may be an inflatable cushion. As seen in FIGS. 27-28, inflatable combination 900 may include benches 950 on both sides of enclosure 906, wherein benches 950 can be held in place by positioning sleeves 952, as discussed further below. In use, bench 950 may provide a comfortable place to sit and a barrier to conceal support structure 910.

[0099] Referring to FIGS. 29-31 , support structure 910 comprises a side pipe 938, a side pipe securing strap 946, a support foot 934 and a support foot securing strap 936. One end of side pipe securing strap 946 is coupled with the bottom of enclosure 906, and a sleeve hole 949 is arranged at the other end of side pipe securing strap 946. Sleeve hole 949 is positioned along the side wall of enclosure 906. Furthermore, two positioning sleeves 952 are arranged at the upper end on the back side of bench 950. Side pipe 938 is sleeved into sleeve hole 949 of side pipe securing strap 946 and positioning sleeves 952 such that a middle position of side pipe 938 is within sleeve hole 949, and a first end portion and a second end portion of side pipe 938 are respectively within positioning sleeves 952. Further, side pipe 938 is positioned such that it is in a middle position of the side wall of enclosure 906. Additionally, side pipe 938 presses against the side wall of enclosure 906 to prevent the side wall of enclosure 906 from bulging out.

[00100] In more detail, support foot securing strap 936 includes two ends wherein one end is connected at the lower part of enclosure 906 and the other end of support foot securing strap 936 forms a folding hole 932. Additionally, support foot 934 comprises a U-shaped base body 942, wherein base body 942 is horizontally supported on the ground, and two opening ends are bent and extend upwards vertically respectively to form connecting arms 944. Base body 942 is sheathed within folding hole 932 of support foot securing strap 936. Furthermore, connecting sleeves 954 are arranged on the back side of bench 950, wherein connecting arms 944 penetrate through connecting sleeves 954 and are inserted and connected with side pipe 938. [00101] Any of the above described inflatable pool and spa combinations 100-800 may further include at least one external bench, wherein the external bench may be used to cover the supporting structures.

4. Air and Water Flow [00102] Referring to FIG. 32, an inflatable pool and spa combination 1000 is shown comprising an enclosure 1006 forming a first water cavity 1002 and a second water cavity 1004 with a water and air control system 1060 for supplying and/or draining air and/or water to and/or from cavities 1002 and 1004. Although control system 1060 is shown and described with the inflatable pool and spa combination 1000, control system 1060 may be used with any of the other inflatable pool and spa combinations 100-900 discussed above. Cavities 1002 and 1004 may be formed by an inflatable enclosure 1006, wherein a dividing portion 1007 separates cavities 1002 and 1004. Water cavities 1002 and 1004 may include massage air holes 1028 and 1030, respectively.

[00103] Control system 1060 includes a controller 1074 coupled to a first water pipe 1062 and a second water pipe 1064. In addition, control system 1060 includes a first inlet air pipe 1068 coupled to first water cavity 1002, a second inlet air pipe 1070 coupled to second water cavity 1004, and an air inlet control valve 1072 controlling the flow of air to air pipes 1068, 1070. In various embodiments, water pipes 1062 and 1064 of water cavities 1002 and 1004 may be in communication via waterway connecting pipe 1066, while air inlet pipes 1068 and 1070 are mutually exclusive to first water cavity 1002 and second water cavity 1004, respectively.

[00104] First water pipe 1062 includes a first end 1062a and a second end 1062b, wherein first end 1062a is coupled to first water cavity 1002 and second end 1062b is coupled to coritroller 1074. Second water pipe 1064 also includes a first end 1064a and a second end 1064b, wherein first end 1064a is coupled to second water cavity 1004 and second end 1064b is coupled to controller 1074. Waterway connecting pipe 1066 extends through dividing portion 1007 and connects first water cavity 1002 and second water cavity 1004. [00105] First air inlet pipe 1068 includes a first end 1068a and a second end 1068b, wherein first end 1068a is connected to first water cavity 1002. Additionally, second air inlet pipe 1070 includes a first end 1070a and a second end 1070b, wherein first end 1070a is connected to second water cavity 1004. Second ends 1068b, 1070b of first air inlet pipe 1068 and second air inlet pipe 1070 are coupled at air inlet control valve 1072 which is coupled. to controller 1074 by a single pipe. Air inlet control valve 1072 controls first air inlet pipe 1068 and second air inlet pipe 1070 such that they may both be open or closed or either can be solely open. Additionally, as air inlet pipes 1068 and 1070 of first and second water cavities 1002 and 1004 are independently configured, both pools may have massage functions at the same time or independently.

[00106] Controller 1074 includes a water pump (not shown) for pumping the water through control system 1060 and a water processing device (not shown), which may include a water heater for heating the water and/or a water filter for cleaning the water. Thus, the controller 1074 delivers heated and/or filtered water to first water pipe 1062 and/or second water pipe 1064. Because waterway connecting pipe 1066 connects first water cavity 1002 and second water cavity 1004, the processed water may be delivered to one cavity (e.g., to first water cavity 1002 via the first water pipe 1062), cross over to the other cavity (e.g., to second water cavity 1004 via the waterway connecting pipe 1066), and then make its way back to the controller 1074 (e.g., via the second water pipe 1064). This cyclical arrangement allows the water of first water cavity 1002 and second water cavity 1004 to be filtered and/or heated at the same time with simplified pipe connections, minimal filtering and/or heating devices, and reduced costs.

[00107] Furthermore, controller 1074 includes an air pump (not shown) that selectively delivers compressed air to the first air inlet pipe 1068 and/or the second air inlet pipe 1070 via the air inlet control valve 1072. The air may be delivered to the water cavities 1002 and 1004 in the form of massaging air bubbles via the air holes 1028 and 1030, respectively.

[00108] Referring now to FIG. 33, an inflatable pool and spa combination 1 100 including a water and air control system 1160 and an enclosure 1106 forming a first water cavity 1102 and a second water cavity _t l 104 is provided. Control system 1160 may be similar to control system 1060 of FIG. 32, except as described below. Control system 1 160 generally includes a controller 1 174 and first and second air inlet pipes 1 168, 1 170, first and second water inlet pipes 1163, 1 165 and first and second water drainage pipes 1 176, 1 178 that are connected to first and second water cavities 1 102 and 1 104, respectively, and are all mutually exclusive to each cavity 1 102, 1104. Additionally, first and second cavities 1 102, 1 104 include massage air outlet holes 1128, 1 130, respectively.

[00109] Air inlet pipes 1 168, 1170 include a first end 1168a, 1 170a connected to water cavities 1 102, 1 104, respectively, and a second end 1 168b, 1 170b connected to an air inlet control valve 1 172 that is in communication with controller 1 174. Air inlet control valve 1 172 controls first air inlet pipe 1168 and second air inlet pipe 1 170 such that they may both be open or closed or either can be solely open. As such, only one air pump (not shown) is needed in controller 1 174 to achieve first water cavity 1102 and second water cavity 1104 having a massage function at the same time or independently. [00110] In various embodiments, first water inlet pipe 1 163 and first water drainage pipe 1 176 have a first end connected to first water cavity 1 102 and .second water inlet pipe 1165 and second water drainage pipe 1 178 have a first end connected to second water cavity 1 104. Second ends of first water inlet pipe 1 163 and second water inlet pipe 1 165 are connected by a water inlet control valve 1180 which is connected to controller 1 174 via a single inlet pipe. Water inlet control valve 1 180 is used to control first water inlet pipe 1 163 and/or second water inlet pipe 1165 to be open or closed. Second ends of first water drainage pipe 1176 and second water drainage pipe 1 178 are connected by a drainage control valve 1 182 which is connected to controller 1174 via a single drainage pipe. Drainage control valve 1 182 is used to control first water drainage pipe 1 176 and/or second water drainage pipe 1 178 to be open or closed. [00111] Since the water inlet and drainage pipes of first water cavity 1 102 and second water cavity 1 104 are independently configured, both water cavities 1 102, 1 104 can fill with water solely or drain water out solely. Thus, one of first water cavity 1 102 and second water cavity 1 104 may be used and full of water, while the other is unused and empty.

[00112] Furthermore, controller 1 174 may further comprise a water processing device (not shown). When water inlet pipes 1 163, 1 165 and water drainage pipes 1 176, 1 178 are open, water in water cavities 1 102, 1 104 is cycled through the processing device to filter and/or heat the water.

[00113] Although controller 1074 is shown and described for use with two water cavities 1 102, 1104, controller 1074 can be used in an inflatable pool and/or spa combination containing more than two water cavities. In order to have more than two water cavities, a water inlet pipe, a water drainage pipe, and/or an air supply pipe may be added for each water cavity.

[00114] Referring now to FIG. 34, an inflatable pool and spa combination 1200 including a water and air control system 1260 and an enclosure 1206 forming a first water cavity 1202 and a second water cavity 1204 is provided, wherein a dividing portion 1207 separates cavities 1202 and 1204. Control system 1260 may be similar to control system 1060 of FIG. 32 and control system 1160 of FIG. 33, except as described below. Control system 1260 generally includes a controller 1274, a single air inlet pipe 1269 that includes a first end connected to a second water cavity 1204 and a second end connected to control device 1274, an airway connecting pipe 1284 connected between a first water cavity 1202 and second water cavity 1204 through dividing portion 1207, and first and second water inlet pipes 1263, 1265 and first and second water drainage pipes 1276, 1278 that are connected to first and second water cavities 1202 and 1204, respectively. Additionally, first and second cavities 1202, 1204 include massage air outlet holes 1228, 1230, respectively.

[00115] Airway connecting pipe 1284 includes an air control valve 1286 used to control airway connecting pipe 1284 to be open or closed. With air inlet pipe 1269 and airway connecting pipe 1284, the airways of second water cavity 1204 and first water cavity 1202 are connected, and only one air pump (not shown) is needed in controller 1274. When air control valve 1286 is open, the air pump may deliver compressed air in the form of air bubbles to second water cavity 1204 via massage air holes 1230 and to first water cavity 1202 via the open airway connecting pipe 1284 and massage air holes 1228 so that first water cavity 1202 and second water cavity 1204 will both have massage functions. When air control valve 1286 is closed, the air pump may deliver compressed air only to second water cavity 1204 via massage air holes 1230 so that only second water cavity 1204 will have a massage function.

[00116] First and second water inlet pipes 1263, 1265 and first and second water drainage pipes 1276, 1278 function similarly to first and second water inlet pipes 1 163, 1 165 and first and second water drainage 1 176, 1 178, as previously described in reference to FIG. 33.

[00117] Referring next to FIG. 35, this embodiment differs from the previous embodiment in that an inflatable pool and spa combination 1300 includes a control system 1360 comprising single air inlet pipe 1369 that has a first end connected to first water cavity 1302 and an airway connecting pipe 1384 connected between second water cavity 1304 and first water cavity 1302. Airway connecting pipe 1384 includes an air control valve 1386 used to control airway connecting pipe 1384 to be open or closed. [00118] With air inlet pipe 1369 and airway connecting pipe 1384, the airways of second water cavity 1304 and first water cavity 1302 are connected, and only one air pump (not shown) is needed in a controller 1374, so that first water cavity 1302 and second water cavity 1304 will both have massage functions when air control valve 1386 is open and so that only first water cavity 1304 will have a massage function when air control valve 1386 is closed. [00119] With reference now to FIG. 36, an inflatable pool and spa combination 1400 is shown including a water and air control system 1460 and an enclosure 1406 forming a first water cavity 1402 and a second water cavity 1404, wherein a dividing portion 1407 separates cavities 1402 and 1404. Control system 1460 may be similar to control systems 1060-1360, except as described below. Control system 1460 includes a single air inlet pipe 1469 with one end connected to second water cavity 1404 and the other end connected to control device 1474, a single water inlet pipe 1467 and a single water drainage pipe 1477 that are both connected at one end to first water cavity 1402 and the other end to controller 1474. Additionally, first and second cavities 1402, 1404 include massage air outlet holes 1428, 1430, respectively.

[00120] Control system 1460 further includes a waterway connecting pipe 1466 extending through dividing portion 1407 and connecting first water cavity 1402 and second water cavity 1404. Waterway connecting pipe 1466 includes a water control valve 1490 used to control waterway connecting pipe 1466 to be open or closed. Controller 1474 includes a water processing device (not shown). As water inlet pipe 1467, water outlet pipe 1477 and waterway connecting pipe 1466 are connected when water control valve 1490 is open, water in first and second water cavities 1402, 1404 can be cycled through and filtered and/or heated at the same time. This arrangement simplifies the pipe connections, minimizes the number of filtering and/or heating devices, and reduces costs while still servicing a plurality of water cavities 1402 and 1404. Waterway connecting pipe 1466 also allows first water cavity 1402 to be filtered and/or heated solely when water control valve 1490 is closed.

[00121] Control system 1460 also includes an airway connecting pipe 1484 extending through dividing portion 1407 and connecting first water cavity 1402 and second water cavity 1404. Controller 1474 includes an air pump (not shown). Airway connecting pipe 1484 includes an air control valve 1486 used to control airway connecting pipe 1484 to be open and closed, so as to allow second water cavity 1404 to receive massaging air bubbles solely when air control valve 1486 is closed or both cavities 1402 and 1404 to receive massaging air bubbles at the same time when air control valve 1486 is open. This arrangement simplifies the pipe connections, minimizes the number of filtering and/or heating devices, and reduces costs while still servicing a plurality of water cavities 1402 and 1404.

[00122] Referring now to FIG. 37, an embodiment of an inflatable pool/spa combination 1500 is shown differing from the previous embodiment in that one end of a water inlet pipe 1567 of control system 1560 and a water outlet pipe 1577 of control system 1560 is connected to a second water cavity 1504, and one end of an air inlet pipe 1569 of control system 1560 is connected to a first water cavity 1502. With this configuration, water in second water cavity 1504 can be filtered and/or heated solely, or water in both cavities can be filtered and/or heated at the same time. Additionally, first water cavity 1502 can receive massaging air bubbles solely, or both cavities can receive massaging air bubbles at the same time. The rest of this embodiment is substantially similar to the previous embodiment, so that it is not further described hereafter. [00123] With reference to FIG. 38, an embodiment of an inflatable pool/spa combination 1600 is shown differing from the previous embodiments in that one end of water inlet pipe 1667 and water outlet pipe 1677 is connected to second water cavity 1604, and one end of air inlet pipe 1669 is also connected to second water cavity 1604. With this configuration, water in second water cavity 1604 can be filtered and/or heated solely, or water in both cavities 1602, 1604 can be filtered and/or heated at the same time. Additionally, second water cavity 1604 can receive massaging air bubbles solely, or both cavities 1602, 1604 can receive massaging air bubbles at the same time. The rest of this embodiment is similar to the previous embodiment described in FIG. 36, so that it is not further described hereafter.

[00124] Referring now to FIG. 39, an embodiment of an inflatable pool/spa combination 1700 is shown differing from the previous embodiment in that one end of water inlet pipe 1767 and water outlet pipe 1777 is connected to first water cavity 1702, and one end of air inlet pipe 1769 is also connected to first water cavity 1702. With this configuration, water in first cavity 1702 can be filtered and/or heated solely, or water in both cavities 1702, 1704 can be filtered and/or heated at the same time. Furthermore, first water cavity 1702 can receive massaging air bubbles solely, or both cavities 1702, 1704 can receive massaging air bubbles at the same time. The rest of this embodiment is similar to the previous embodiment described in FIG. 36, so that it is not further described hereafter.

[00125] Referring to FIGS. 40 and 41, an embodiment of an inflatable pool/spa combination 1800 is shown including an air control system 1860 having an air transportation device 1892 connected between an air pump 1894 located within a controller 1874 and an inflatable enclosure 1806. Air transportation device 1892 is used to transport air generated by air pump 1894 into first and/or second water cavities 1802 and 1804 of enclosure 1806. Air transportation device 1892 comprises a valve seat 1873 disposed within an air passage 1869. Air passage 1869 comprises an air inlet 1869a connected to air pump 1894 and two air outlets 1869b connected to inflatable enclosure 1806, wherein one of the two air outlets 1869b is coupled to first water cavity 1802, and the other is coupled to second water cavity 1804. Air transportation device 1892 further comprises a triangular-shaped valve spool 1872 disposed in valve seat 1873 to open one of the air outlets 1869b and close the other air outlet 1869b or in some cases open both air outlets 1869b.

[00126] In various illustrative embodiments, air transportation device 1892 may further comprise a connecting air pipe 1896, which is assembled to an outer wall of inflatable enclosure 1806, wherein connecting air pipe 1896 includes a first airway 1868 and a second airway 1870. First airway 1868 and second airway 1870 are respectively connected to the two air outlets 1869b. Air transportation device 1892 further comprises a check valve sealing element 1898 corresponding to air outlets 1869b, wherein check valve sealing element 1898 is used to prevent water in inflatable enclosure 1806 from reverse-flowing to air passage 1869. Thus, air can pass through check valve sealing element 1898 to enter water cavities 1802, 1804, but water cannot flow back into air passage 1869. Furthermore, connecting air pipe 1896 may include an assembly seat 1899, wherein check valve sealing element 1898 is coupled to assembly seat 1899.

[00127] Referring to FIGS. 42 and 43, valve seat 1873 comprises a shaft sleeve 1897 vertically arranged, an air pump joint 1895 horizontally arranged and connected to the bottom end of shaft sleeve 1897, and an air pipe joint 1893 horizontally arranged and connected to the bottom end of shaft sleeve 1897 perpendicular to air pump joint 1895. Air inlet 1869a is formed inside air pump joint 1895, and air outlets 1869b are formed inside air pipe joint 1893. The side of air pump joint 1895 may be disposed with a sealing cover 1891. Valve spool 1872 is rotatably disposed at the bottom portion of shaft sleeve 1897. The upper portion of valve spool 1872 includes a connecting handle 1889, wherein the top end of connecting handle 1889 extends upwardly out of shaft sleeve 1897. The upper portion of shaft sleeve 1897 is disposed with a knob 1887, wherein knob 1887 is coupled to connecting handle 1889 to drive rotation of valve spool 1872. (00128] Referring to FIGS. 44A, 44B and 44C, the valve spool 1872 may be rotated to selectively open and close air outlets 1869b. Valve spool 1872 may be rotated to ah intermediate position (FIG. 44A) at the center of the two air outlets 1869b such that both air outlets 1869b are open at the same time around the triangular-shaped valve spool 1872. Valve spool 1872 may be rotated to a leftward position (FIG. 44B) such that the leftward outlet 1869b is closed, while the rightward outlet 1869b is open. Valve spool 1872 may be rotated to a rightward position (FIG. 44C) such that the leftward outlet 1869b is open, while the rightward outlet 1869b is closed.

[00129] Referring to FIGS. 42, 45 and 46, connecting air pipe 1896 is coupled to air pipe joint 1893 via air outlets 1869b. At one end, connecting air pipe 1893 may include the above- described assembly seat 1899 and check valve sealing element 1898. At the other end, connecting air pipe 1896 includes an airway plug 1885, wherein airway plug 1885 includes two through holes respectively connected to first airway 1868 and second airway 1870. In various embodiments, the same end of connecting air pipe 1896 may be coated with a soft rubber outer cover 1883. [00130] Referring now to FIG. 47, an embodiment of an inflatable pool/spa combination 1900 is shown including an inflatable enclosure 1906 defining a first water cavity 1902 and a second water cavity 1904, and a water control system 1960 having a controller 1974 and a water flow control device 1981 connected between a water processing device 1979 (e.g., filter, heater) within controller 1974 and inflatable enclosure 1906. By driving a water pump connected to processing device 1979, water in first water cavity 1902 and/or second water cavity 1904 flows cyclically through processing device 1979 to be filtered and/or heated.

[00131] Referring next to FIGS. 48-52, flow control device 1981 generally comprises a valve body 1975, wherein valve body 1975 includes a waterway selectively connecting the water pump and processing device 1979 to water cavities 1902, 1904. The front end of the waterway includes a first water inlet 1947 and a second water inlet 1945, the rear end of the waterway includes a first water outlet 1943 and a second water outlet 1941. Flow control device 1981 further comprises two triangular-shaped valve spools 1980, 1982 disposed in valve body 1975 to close first water inlet 1947 and first water outlet 1943 at the same time or to close second water inlet 1945 and second water outlet 1941 at the same time. When the two valve spools 1980, 1982 respectively close first water inlet 1947 and first water outlet 1943, water of first water cavity 1902 enters the waterway through second water inlet 1945 by the driving of the water pump, and then flows back to first water cavity 1902 through second water outlet 1941 after being filtered and/or heated by processing device 1979. When the two valve spools 1980, 1982 respectively close second water inlet 1945 and second water outlet 1941 , water of second water cavity 1904 enters the waterway through first water inlet 1947 by the driving of the water pump, and then flows back to second water cavity 1904 through first water outlet 1943 after being filtered and/or heated by processing device 1979.

[00132] Valve body 1975 comprises a vertical cylindrical base 1971 , an upper cover 1939 covering the upper end of base 1971 and a lower cover 1937 covering the lower end of base 1971. As shown in FIG. 52, the central portion of base 1971 includes a baffle 1961 to separate the waterway of base 1971 into an upper cavity 1935 and a lower cavity 1933. First water inlet 1947 and first water outlet 1943 are both disposed within the side walls of lower cavity 1933 and upper cavity 1935, wherein they are vertically aligned. Second water inlet 1945 and second water outlet 1941 are both disposed within the side walls of lower cavity 1933 and upper cavity 1935, wherein they are also vertically aligned. The two valve spools 1980, 1982 are respectively located in upper cavity 1935 and lower cavity 1933 of valve body 1975 and are connected to rotate together in a driving manner.

[00133] In further detail, a lower connector 1931 is disposed at the side wall of lower cavity 1933, while an upper connector 1929 is disposed at upper cover 1939. Upper connector 1929 of upper cover 1939 communicates with upper cavity 1935, and lower connector 1931 communicates with lower cavity 1933. [00134] In operation, and as shown in FIGS. 48-53, water travels through the waterway of valve body 1975 to be filtered and/or heated in processing device 1979. The waterway of valve body 1975 comprises a lower portion composed of first water inlet 1947, second water inlet 1945, lower cavity 1933, connector 1931 and an upper portion composed of connector 1929, upper cavity 1935, first water outlet 1943 and second water outlet 1941. Water flows out of lower connector 1931 of lower cavity 1933 and enters processing device 1979, and then flows to upper cavity 1935 from upper connector 1929. [00135] Flow control device 1981 further comprises a motor mechanism 1923 positioned atop upper cover 1939 to automatically drive rotation of valve spools 1980, 1982. The rotating shaft of motor mechanism 1923 passes through upper cover 1939 to connect to the upper valve spool 1980 located in upper cavity 1935 in a driving manner. The lower valve spool 1982 located in lower cavity 1933 is rotatably supported on lower cover 1937 for rotation with the upper valve spool 1980.

[00136] FIGS. 53 A and 53B show the lower valve spool 1982 in a first position (FIG. 53A) and a second position (FIG. 53B). Although not shown in these particular figures, it is understood that the upper valve spool 1980 would rotate along with the lower valve spool 1982. Referring to FIG. 53 A, when the lower valve spool 1982 closes first water inlet 1947 and the upper valve spool 1980 closes the vertically-aligned first water outlet 1943, processing device 1979 would communicate with the corresponding first water cavity 1902 via the open water inlet 1945 and its vertically-aligned water outlet 1941. Referring to FIG. 53B, when the lower valve spool 1982 closes second water inlet 1945 and the upper valve spool 1980 closes the vertically- aligned second water outlet 1941 , processing device 1979 would communicate with the corresponding second water cavity 1904 via the open water inlet 1947 and its vertically-aligned water outlet 1943.

5. Control Methods

[00137] As explained above in reference to FIGS. 32-53, a control system may include an air delivery system and/or a water processing system, wherein a plurality of pipes couple the control system to the first and second cavities through the enclosure of the inflatable

combination. Additionally, the control system may be utilized to regulate the air and water within the first and second cavities of the inflatable combination. [00138] In further detail, the control system may be used to process the water from the first and second cavities. To do this, the water within the first and second cavities may be circulated by a water pump through one or more devices that provide for filtration and/or heating. [00139] An exemplary water processing method will now be described with reference to control system 1960 of FIGS. 47-53, but it will be understood that this method may be applied to other control systems of the present disclosure.

[00140] To activate a filtration cycle, a filter button on controller 1974 may be depressed and held for a suitable period of time, such as approximately 3 seconds, which causes the valve spools 1980, 1982 of the flow control device 1981 to be actuated to open the waterway to the second water cavity 1904 of the inflatable combination 1900. The filtration continues on the second water cavity 1904 for a suitable period of time, such as approximately 2 hours. After this time, the valve spools 1980, 1982 are actuated to open the waterway to the first water cavity 1902 and switch the filtration to the first water cavity 1902 of the inflatable combination 1900. The first water cavity 1902 is filtered for a suitable period of time, such as approximately 10 hours. After filtering the first water cavity 1902, the valve spools 1980, 1982 are actuated and the second water cavity 1904 is then filtered again. In various embodiments, the shift between cavities 1902, 1904 may be manually changed at the preference of the user. In an exemplary embodiment, the shift may be done automatically through motor 1923 by the depressing of the filter button.

[00141] Furthermore, a heater may be activated when a target water temperature is higher than the actual water temperature of first cavity 1902 and/or second cavity 1904. The target water temperature(s) may be selected via a control panel, for example. If the first cavity 1902 is too cold, for example, the valve spools 1980, 1982 may be actuated to open the first cavity 1902 for heating. The first cavity 1902 may continue to be heated, even though it has reached the target temperature, until a predetermined period of time has passed, such as approximately 2-80 hours. The heater may cycle on and off during this predetermined period. If the second cavity 1904 is too cold at the end of this predetermined period, the valve spools 1980, 1982 may be actuated to open the second cavity 1904 for heating for a predetermined period of time, such as approximately 2 hours. The valve spools 1980, 1982 may rotate back and forth between the cavities 1902, 1904 for additional heating cycles. As with filtering, heating of the cavities 1902, 1904 may be manually controlled by the user. In an exemplary embodiment, the shift may be done automatically through motor 1923. If the first cavity 1902 serves as a spa and the second cavity 1904 serves as a swimming pool, the first cavity 1902 may be given priority during the heating cycles.

[00142] While this invention has been described as having exemplary designs, the present invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains and which fall within the limits of the appended claims.