POOL SKIMMER SYSTEM

BACKGROUND

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to systems for improving the operation of pool skimmers, particularly those used in outdoor swimming pools, and methods of using the same.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] With reference to FIGs. 1-3, in the prior art, it is known to remove debris in swimming pools 110 through the use of skimmers 100. As known to those of ordinary skill, swimming pools 110 generally consist of a basin (or swimming area) 121, the perimeter of which is defined by a plurality of sidewalls 120 and the bottom of which is defined by a floor 122. The floor 122 usually includes a bottom drain 101.

[0003] Skimmers 100 generally include a rectangular skimmer opening 135 located in a sidewall 120 of the swimming pool 110, a moveable skimmer weir 170 located inside the skimmer 100 that pivots on a hinge 155 within the skimmer 100 and moves in response to changes in the water levels of the swimming pool 110 and a rectangular skimmer faceplate 145. The faceplate 145 surrounds the skimmer opening 135, has a thickness 148 of about 1-3 inches and is secured to the pool sidewall 120 via one or more fasteners (e.g., screws) 146 inserted through fastener apertures 147. Some pools, particularly many concrete and gunite pools, lack a faceplate 145 surrounding the skimmer opening 135. The skimmer weir 170 pivots between a vertical position (shown in phantom line 170A in FIG. 2) in which the skimmer weir 170 is generally parallel to the sidewall 120 (and perpendicular to the ground) and prevents large debris from flowing through the skimmer 100 (more precisely, beyond the skimmer weir 170) and a horizontal position (shown in phantom line 170B in FIG. 2) in which the skimmer weir 170 is generally perpendicular to the sidewall 120 (and parallel to the ground) and allows large debris to flow through the skimmer 100 until the debris reaches a filter or debris basket 160. The passageway or throat through which water flows through the skimmer 100 is denoted by numeral 196 and the top of the throat is denoted by 197. As known to the those of ordinary skill, the skimmer weir 170 of a conventional skimmer 100 often occupies a position between its two end pivot points (i.e., between the vertical 170A and horizontal 170B positions), as shown in FIG. 2. Water enters the skimmer 100 through the opening 135, flows through throat 196 and over the skimmer weir 170, and through a filter or debris basket 160, which collects debris. Optionally, the top of the throat 197 includes a downwardly extending flange 198, which prevents the skimmer weir 170 from rotating beyond the vertical 170A. Ultimately, the filtered water exits the skimmer 100 through drain/exit aperture 199 is then pumped back into the basin 121 of the swimming pool 110 through water jets 165 located in the pool sidewalls 120. Pools may include a series of pumps 190, valves 192 and 194 and pipes 180, 181, 182 and 193. Typically the water jets 165 create a counter-clockwise or clockwise 183 circulation in the basin 121 of the pool 110, as shown in FIG. 3. Pools 110 may contain one or more skimmers 100, depending on pool size and the year the pool was built. For example, some U.S. municipalities require that municipal pools have one skimmer per 400 square feet of swimming area.

[0004] Usually, the skimmer opening 135 and skimmer weir 170 are located several inches below the top overhang 130 of the pool. (The distance from the pool top overhang 130 to the top of the skimmer opening 135 is labeled as 140. The distance from the pool top overhang 130 to the top edge 171 of the skimmer weir 170 is labeled as 150). Most, if not all, of the debris typically found in the basins 121 of swimming pool 110 is more dense than water and hence is located in the top layer of the water located in the basin 121 of the swimming pool 110. Thus, for this reason, skimmer manufacturers instruct swimming pool owners to keep the water level in the basin 121 of the pool 110 approximately two-thirds (2/3) of the way up the faceplate 145 (i.e., below the top edge 171 of the skimmer weir 170) so that the skimmer 100 filters the top, debris-containing layer of the pool water. Unfortunately, keeping the water at the manufacturer's recommended level is problematic for several reasons. First, the owner may want to keep the water level in the basin 121 of the pool 110 near the top overhang 130 of the pool 110 for aesthetic effect (i.e., a full pool). Second, if a rainstorm increases the water above the manufacturer's recommended level, the owner must remove some of the water from the pool 110 via a drain so that the water returns to the recommended level.

This creates a time burden on the pool owner unless the drainage is automatic and, in any case, is environmentally unfriendly and costly, as pool water and chemicals in the pool water are wasted when the pool is drained. [0005] Some devices in the prior art seek to address some of these water loss issues; however these prior art devices are costly and create hazards in the pool. For example, the Ecoskim™ device (Ecoskim Pty Ltd., Australia), which is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,993,515 to Davies, is a swimming pool cleaning device that includes an outer body with an outlet to the pool pump line, a hollow mating member, which floats within the outer body so that its top rim is at the surface of the pool and a litter basket which fits within the floating member. The device further includes an inlet that attaches to a hose, which moves about the swimming pool, and a backing plate that fits over the opening of a swimming pool skimmer and prevents water from entering the skimmer opening. The Ecoskim™ device costs approximately $700 U.S. Dollars and relies on the use of a mobile hose, which poses a hazard to children swimming in the swimming pool.

[0006] Thus, there is a need for cheap and safe devices that improve the operation of swimming pool skimmers.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0007] The present disclosure provides several systems for increasing the range of a pool skimmer that has a skimmer opening located in a sidewall of a swimming pool.

[0008] One such system includes:

a) a swimming pool comprising a basin configured to hold water and a plurality of sidewalls defining a perimeter of the basin;

b) a skimmer comprising a skimmer opening located in one of the sidewalls, the skimmer opening in fluid communication with the basin; and c) a weir assembly located in the basin and adjacent to the skimmer opening, the weir assembly abutting the one sidewall and comprising a plurality of fastener apertures and a weir located in the basin, the weir configured to move in response to changing water levels in the basin, the weir assembly configured to deliver water from the basin to the skimmer opening.

[0009] Optionally, the weir is configured to move above the skimmer opening so that water located above the skimmer opening can enter the skimmer. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a vacuum release door and a vacuum release opening, the vacuum release door configured to move between a closed position wherein the vacuum release door closes the vacuum release opening and an open position wherein the vacuum release door allows water located in the basin to enter through the vacuum release opening and enter the skimmer opening. Optionally, the vacuum release door is located in the weir. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a hinge attaching the vacuum release door to the weir assembly and the vacuum release door is moveable (more particularly pivotable) along the hinge. Optionally, the weir assembly comprises a top half and a bottom half and the vacuum release opening is located in the bottom half of the weir assembly. Optionally, the weir assembly has a height of at least about 4 inches and a width of at least about 4 inches, e.g., a height of from about 4 to about 14 inches and a width of from about 4 inches to about 24 inches.

[0010] Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a plate abutting the pool sidewall, the plate comprising the plurality of fastener apertures, the plate preventing water in the basin from entering the skimmer opening without passing over the weir. Optionally, the plate comprises a flat portion abutting the one sidewall. Optionally, the plate further comprises a plate opening located between the weir and the skimmer opening, the plate opening configured to feed water to the skimmer opening, and further wherein the weir at least partially covers the plate opening. Optionally, the weir further comprises a top, the top comprising an opening configured to feed water from the basin to the plate opening. Optionally, the plate opening has a cross-sectional area from about 4 square inches to about 50 square inches (more preferably from about 16 square inches to about 40 square inches).

[0011] Optionally, the system further comprises a plurality of fasteners attaching the weir assembly to the one sidewall. Optionally, the system further comprises a pool pump in fluid communication with the skimmer, the skimmer further comprises a throat and a water exit aperture/drain that feeds water from the skimmer to the pool pump, the throat located between the skimmer opening and the water exit aperture/drain, and the system further comprises an adjustable frame located in the throat, the adjustable frame having an adjustable length and an adjustable height.

[0012] Optionally, the system further comprises a plurality of fastener apertures located in the adjustable frame and a plurality of fasteners attaching the adjustable frame to the weir assembly, each of the plurality of fasteners passing through a fastener aperture located in the weir assembly and a fastener aperture located in the adjustable frame. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a floor located at a bottom of the weir assembly, the floor abutting the one pool sidewall, the floor configured to inhibit water located in the basin from entering the skimmer opening from below the floor. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a motor configured to move the weir in response to changing water levels in the basin. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a track configured to allow the weir to move in response to changing water levels in the basin. Optionally, the system further comprises a power source configured to power the motor. Optionally, the weir assembly further comprises a top and the top comprises a solar panel configured to power the motor. Optionally, the system further comprises a water level sensor configured to sense the water level in the basin, and a processor connected to the water level sensor and configured to move the weir in response to data concerning the water level in the basin received from the water level sensor. Optionally, the basin is filled with water, and the weir comprises a top and a float located adjacent to the top, the float configured to allow the top of the weir to float in the water. Optionally, the weir is buoyant in water.

[0013] The present invention also provides a method of using a pool skimmer system to increase the range of a pool skimmer, the method comprising:

a) providing the pool skimmer system; and

b) flowing water from the basin over the weir (i.e., at least partially over the weir) and into the skimmer opening.

[0014] In other embodiments, the present disclosure provides a system that includes at least one track attached to the sidewall and adjacent to the skimmer opening. The track has a track length generally perpendicular to the ground. The first system also includes a weir attached to the track and moveable in a generally vertical position along the track length in response to changing water levels in the pool (more particularly, water levels in the pool basin). The weir preferably is configured to feed water located in the pool (more particularly, in the basin) to the skimmer opening. Preferably, water from the pool flows through a weir recess in the weir and into the skimmer opening. In some embodiments, the weir recess is located in a quarter sphere portion of the weir. Preferably, the system includes two tracks and each track has a track length, a track recess surface extending along the track length, and a sidewall surface configured to abut (and optionally, to attach, directly or indirectly) to the pool sidewall and disposed at about a 90 angle relative to the track recess surface. Optionally, the weir includes a vacuum release opening and a vacuum release door that is configured to move between a closed position in which the door seals the opening and an open position in which the door allows water to enter through the opening. Optionally, the track sidewall surfaces include fastener apertures to attach the track directly or indirectly to the pool sidewall or to the adjustable frame described above. Preferably, the first system includes a weir fastener for immobilizing the skimmer weir (i.e., the weir located inside the skimmer throat). Optionally, the track and weir are comprised of clear plastic.

[0015] Another system generally relates to a deflector that abuts (and optionally is attached, directly or indirectly), to the sidewall and that extends outwards into the pool and above the skimmer opening. The deflector further includes an opening. The opening may be centrally located or may be a side opening that is positioned to capture water circulating in a clockwise or counter-clockwise fashion (depending on the circulation pattern of water within the pool, more particularly, within the basin). The opening feeds water to the skimmer opening.

As with the prior embodiment, preferably the skimmer weir is immobilized by a weir fastener or removed. Preferably, the deflector does not move within the swimming pool other than to slightly deform in response to pressure applied to the deflector. Preferably, the opening spans substantially the entire height of the deflector and at least above the skimmer opening. Preferably, the deflector includes fastener apertures and fasteners for attaching the deflector directly or indirectly to the sidewall or to the adjustable frame. Preferably, the deflector is attached to a skimmer faceplate that is attached to the pool sidewall. Preferably, the deflector includes a solid, water impermeable floor, which may abut the sidewall, and a top opening so that water flows through only the side or top openings. Preferably, the deflector extends into the pool (more particularly the pool basin) a distance of about 1 inch to about 18 inches so that the deflector does not interfere with swimmers in the pool and the deflector has a height of at least 8 inches (e.g., about 8 inches to about 20 inches).

[0016] Without being bound to any particular theory, it is believed that the apparatuses are cheap to manufacture, safe, conserve water and chemical use, and allow for an aesthetically pleasing full pool.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates a front, perspective view of a prior art skimmer and pool sidewall.

[0018] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross -sectional view of the prior art skimmer of

FIG. 1, taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 1.

[0019] FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic view of water circulating in a clockwise fashion in a swimming pool with a prior art skimmer.

[0020] FIG. 4 illustrates a front, perspective view of a system of one embodiment of the present invention for increasing the range of a pool skimmer.

[0021] FIG. 5 illustrates a front, exploded view of the system of FIG. 4. [0022] FIG. 6 illustrates a rear, perspective view of the system of FIG. 4.

[0023] FIG. 7 illustrates a side, elevational view of the system of FIG. 4.

[0024] FIG. 8 illustrates a front, cut-away view of the system of FIG. 4 attached to the faceplate of a pool skimmer.

[0025] FIG. 9 illustrates a close-up, front, cut-away view of the system of FIG. 4 attached to the faceplate of a pool skimmer.

[0026] FIG. 10 illustrates a top view of the system of FIG. 4.

[0027] FIG. 11 illustrates a front, perspective view of one embodiment of a deflector of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 12 illustrates a rear, perspective view of the deflector of FIG. 11.

[0029] FIG. 13 illustrates a top, plan view of the deflector of FIG. 11.

[0030] FIG. 14 illustrates a side, elevational view of the deflector of FIG. 11 and a faceplate of a pool skimmer.

[0031] FIG. 15 illustrates a front, perspective view of another embodiment of a deflector of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 16 illustrates a front, perspective view of another embodiment of a deflector of the present invention abutting a pool sidewall; in this embodiment, the deflector includes a weir.

[0033] FIG. 17 illustrates another front, perspective view of the deflector of FIG. 16.

[0034] FIG. 18 illustrates a front, exploded, perspective view of the deflector of FIG. 16; FIG. 18 shows that the deflector is attached to an adjustable frame located inside the skimmer.

[0035] FIG. 19A is a front, elevation view of the adjustable frame of FIG. 18. [0036] FIG. 19B is a front, elevation view of another embodiment of an adjustable frame.

[0037] FIG. 20 is a front elevation view of the adjustable frame of FIG. 18 inside a skimmer; the deflector is not shown in FIG. 20 so that the frame is visible.

[0038] FIG. 21 is a front, perspective view of a weir assembly that abuts a pool sidewall; in FIG. 21, the weir assembly includes a central plate and two side plates that cover a skimmer with a large opening.

[0039] FIG. 22 is a top, plan view of the weir assembly of FIG. 21.

[0040] FIG. 23 is a front, exploded, perspective view of the weir assembly of FIG. 21.

[0041] FIG. 24 is a front, perspective view of another embodiment of a weir assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] The present disclosure provides several systems for increasing the range of a pool skimmer 100. The first system is designated by the numeral 200, is illustrated in FIGs. 4-10, and generally relates to a weir 230 that moves along one or more tracks 210. The second system is designated by the numeral 300, is illustrated in FIGs. 11-18 and generally relates to a deflector 330. A third system is designated by the numeral 500, is illustrated in FIGs. 21-24 and also generally relates to a weir 530 that moves along one or more tracks 510. In the drawings, not all reference numbers are included in each drawing for the sake of clarity. The systems 200, 300 and 500 may be used in conjunction with any suitable pool skimmer, and are preferably used with immobile skimmers that are located in swimming pool, pond, fountain, or spa sidewalls, such as the skimmer 100 illustrated in FIGs. 1-3. As used herein, the term "pool" means a swimming pool, pond, fountain or spa. Typically, the pool 100 includes a basin (or swimming area) 121, the perimeter of which is defined by a plurality of sidewalls 120 and the bottom of which is defined by a floor 122. The floor 122 usually includes a bottom drain 101, as described above. While, the systems 200, 300 and 500 may be used in spas, it will be appreciated that the systems 200, 300 and 500 are preferably used in swimming pools, given that spas generally have a small surface area and are typically covered during rainstorms. While one pool 110 may use both systems 200, 300 and 500, generally, only one system will be used with any one skimmer 100. In other words, a given skimmer 100 will typically be outfitted with only one of the systems 200, 300 and 500. It will be appreciated that the systems 200, 300 and 500 may each comprise several embodiments as described herein.

[0043] Referring further to the first system 200, as shown in FIGs. 4-10, the system 200 generally includes one or more tracks 210, typically two parallel tracks 210. The track 210 includes a track length 215 and a track recess surface 220. Preferably, the track 210 has a length 215 of at least about 6 inches (e.g., about 6- 24 inches) and a thickness 216 that is substantially equal to the thickness 148 of the faceplate 145 (e.g., about 1-3 inches). The track recess surface 220 includes a track recess 225 extending along the track length 215. When it is mentioned that the track recess 225 extends along the track length 215, it is meant that the track recess 225 extends at least partially along the track length 215. In a preferred embodiment, the track recess 225 extends substantially the entire track length 215.

More preferably, the track recess 225 extends the entire track length 215 so that the weir 230 can be installed from either the top or the bottom of the track 210 and so that the weir 230 can slide out of the bottom of the track 210 if struck in a downward motion as a safety feature. The track 210 further includes a sidewall surface 221 configured to abut (and optionally attach (i.e., directly or indirectly)) to the pool sidewall 120. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the sidewall surface 221 is configured to attach to the sidewall 120 by attaching to a skimmer faceplate 145 that is attached to the sidewall 120. Preferably, the sidewall surface 221 is disposed at an angle of approximately 90 degrees relative to the track recess surface 220. Preferably, the sidewall surface 221 includes one or more fastener apertures 222 for attaching the track 210 directly or indirectly to the pool sidewall 120. Preferably, the fastener apertures 222 are configured to receive a fastener 223 (e.g., bolt, screw, etc.) so that the fastener 223 may attach the track 210 to the skimmer faceplate 145. In a particular embodiment, the fasteners 223 are a plurality (e.g., four) of pan-head screws that are used to attach two tracks 210 to the skimmer faceplate 145 and the fastener apertures 222 are longer than the diameter of the pan-head screw 223, as best seen in FIG. 8, and counter-sunk for the seats of the pan-head screw 223, which allows for the proper seating of the screws 223 and gives the flexibility of height adjustment of the track 210. In some embodiments, the systems 200, 300, and 500 include fastener aperture covers (not shown) that fit inside unused fastener apertures so that water and debris does not enter such unused fastener apertures. In some embodiments, some or all of the fastener apertures described herein are threaded (e.g., nuts) and configured to receive a threaded rod.

[0044] The first system 200, as previously noted, is particularly useful in conjunction with the typical skimmer 100 illustrated in FIGs. 1-3. As previously noted, such skimmers 100 typically include a skimmer opening 135 and a skimmer weir 170 located inside the skimmer 100 (more particularly inside throat 196), which pivots between a vertical position (shown in phantom line 170A in FIG. 2) in which the skimmer weir 170 is generally parallel to the sidewall 120 (and perpendicular to the ground) and prevents large debris from flowing through the skimmer 110 (more precisely, beyond the skimmer weir 170) and a horizontal position (shown in phantom line 170B in FIG. 2) in which the skimmer weir 170 is generally perpendicular to the sidewall 120 (and parallel to the ground) and allows debris to flow through the skimmer 100 until the debris reaches a filter or debris basket 160. For ease of reference, the skimmer weir 170 of a conventional skimmer 100 is referred to herein as the "skimmer weir" and the additional weir 230, 313 and 530 provided by first, second and third systems 200, 300 and 500 is referred to herein as the "additional weir." However, it will be understood that systems 200, 300, 500 may include only the additional weir, given that skimmer weir 170 may be removed as described below.

[0045] In addition to the optional skimmer weir 170, the first system 200 further includes an additional weir 230. The additional weir 230 is configured to be received in the track recess 225 when the track 210 abuts and (optionally is attached to) the sidewall 120 so that the additional weir 230 may move in generally vertical direction (relative to the ground) along the track length 215 in response to changing water levels in the pool 110 (more particularly, the basin 121).

[0046] Preferably, the forces acting on the additional weir 230 keep at least a portion of the top edge 231 of the additional weir 230 (preferably at least weir recess portion 235 of top edge 231 as described below) at or near the top surface of water in the pool 110 during normal operation so that the additional weir 230 only allows the top, debris -containing layer of water in the pool 110 to enter skimmer the opening 135. For example, preferably, at least a portion of the top edge 231 of the additional weir 230 is at or near the top surface of water in the pool 110 when the pool 110 (more particularly basin 121) is filled with water to the top of skimmer opening 135. Preferably, a majority of the surface area of the additional weir 230 is submerged in the pool water during normal operation so that the additional weir 230 inhibits non-debris-containing water from entering skimmer opening 135. Those of ordinary skill will appreciate that such forces will include at least the buoyancy of the additional weir 230. The forces may also include the suction power of the skimmer 100. Optionally, the additional weir 230 includes one or more sealed air jackets 240 to increase its buoyancy. Alternatively, the additional weir 230 may be comprised of foam. The system 200 may be comprised of any suitable material, including without limitation, clear plastic (e.g., clear injection molded plastic). Preferably, the track 210 is comprised of a resilient plastic to prevent deformation.

[0047] The track 210 extends at least above, and preferably above and below the skimmer opening 135 so that the top edge 231 of the additional weir 230 has the ability to move at least above (and preferably above and below) the skimmer opening 135 so that the additional weir 230 increases the range of the skimmer 100.

[0048] As shown in FIGs. 4-10, unlike U.S. Patent No. 7,993,515 to Davies, preferably the first system 200 does not block all water from entering the skimmer opening 135. [0049] The first system 200 generally eliminates the need for the skimmer weir 170 as the additional weir 230 is responsible for skimming the top, debris- containing layer of the water in the pool 110. Preferably, the first system 200 further includes a weir fastener 250 (e.g., a clip with two prongs) removably attached to the skimmer weir 170 for immobilizing the skimmer weir 170 at an angle other than 90 degrees relative to the ground (i.e., at a position other than the vertical position 170A). Preferably, the weir fastener 250 has a bottom portion 251 that contacts the top edge 171 of the skimmer weir 170 and a top portion 252 that contacts the top wall 197 of the throat 196 of the skimmer 100, as shown in FIG. 8. In another embodiment, the skimmer weir 170 is removed so that it does not interfere with skimming by first system 200.

[0050] A particular shape of the additional weir 230 will now be described. However, it will be understood that the shape described is merely exemplary and that the additional weir 230 may have any suitable shape. Preferably, as shown in FIGs. 4-10, the additional weir 230 curves away from the pool sidewall 120 so that water may be stored (if even for a very short time) between the rear 232 of the additional weir 230 and the skimmer opening 135. Preferably, the additional weir 230 extends between about 1-12 inches into the pool 110 (more particularly, basin 121) so that the additional weir 230 does not interfere with swimmers. In a particular embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 4-10, the additional weir 230 comprises a quarter sphere portion 233 generally in the shape of a quarter of a sphere, and the quarter sphere portion 233 has a generally flat open top 234. Preferably, the diameter 237 of the quarter sphere is generally parallel to the ground, it being understood that a quarter sphere has one diameter. Preferably, the additional weir 230 further includes a weir recess 235 located in the top edge 231 of the additional weir 230. The weir recess 235 may be located adjacent to the lengthwise center 239 of the top edge 231 of the additional weir 230. In such an embodiment, the weir recess 235 is the entry point of water entering beyond the additional weir 230 (and ultimately into the skimmer opening 135). Preferably, the weir recess 235 is not parallel to the pool sidewall 120 so that the weir recess 235 is optimized to capture the clockwise 183 or counter-clockwise circulation of the pool water.

[0051] In some embodiments, the additional weir 230 further includes a vacuum release door opening 260 and a vacuum release door 261. The vacuum release door 261 is configured to move between a closed position wherein the vacuum release door 261 closes (more preferably seals) the opening 260 and an open position wherein the vacuum release door 261 allows water to enter through the vacuum release opening 260. Without being bound to any particular theory, it is believed that a purpose of the vacuum release door 261, which is ordinarily in the closed position, is that if a child were to push the top edge 231 of the additional weir 230 above the water level in the pool 110 (more particularly basin 121), a vacuum may be created between the additional weir 230 and the pool sidewall 120 due to suction of the additional weir 230 to the pool sidewall 120 caused by skimmer 100. In addition, when the top edge 231 of the additional weir 230 is pushed above the water level in the pool 110 by the child, the water behind the additional weir 230

(i.e., between additional weir 230 and skimmer 100) will be drained into skimmer opening 135 without being replenished, causing water in the pool 110 to exert pressure on the additional weir 230 without a counter-acting force from water behind the additional weir 230 (because the water behind the additional weir 230 is drained). To alleviate such issues, these forces cause the door 261 to move to the open position, allowing water to enter and destroying the vacuum, thereby releasing the additional weir 230 from the sidewall 120 and relieving water pressure exerted on the additional weir 230.

[0052] The vacuum release opening 260 and door 261 are generally the same shape and may be any suitable shape, such as generally circular or rectangular. Preferably, the vacuum release door 261 and opening 260 are located in the lower half of the additional weir 230 so that the door 261 and opening 260 still will be submerged when a child pushes the additional weir 230 upwards, given that a purpose of the door 261 and opening 260 is to allow water to pass through the opening 260 when a child pushes the additional weir 230 upwards. The vacuum release door 261 may use any suitable mechanism to bias the door 261 in the closed position, such as a spring 262 or magnet. If a spring 262 is used, the first system 200 may further include a nylon or plastic bolt 264 that passes through an aperture 267 in the additional weir 230. The aperture 267 is slightly smaller than the shaft of the bolt 264, which when pressed into position becomes rigid and tight and non- moveable. The vacuum release door 261 then slides onto the bolt 264 from the rear side. The forward end 263 of the spring 262 rests against the door 261 and the rear end 266 of the spring 262 rests against a washer 265. A nylon or plastic nut 268 is placed to the rear of the washer 265 so that the washer 265 cannot move rearwardly (i.e., towards the sidewall 120) and the spring 262 applies a force to bias the door 261 in a closed position. In another embodiment, a magnet attached to the door 261 or additional weir 230 is used to bias the door 261 in a closed position. If a magnet is used, the door 261 may be hinged to the additional weir 230. [0053] Optionally, the first system 200 is provided as a kit.

[0054] The first system 200 may be installed by any suitable process.

Optionally, the process includes:

a) removing skimmer faceplate fasteners 146;

b) placing two tracks 210 on the left and right sides of the skimmer opening 135 so that the track sidewall surfaces abut the faceplate 145, the track lengths 215 are perpendicular to the ground, the track recess surfaces 220 of each track 210 face each other, and the faceplate fastener apertures 147 are aligned with the track fastener apertures 222;

c) inserting the track fasteners 223 through the faceplate fastener apertures 147 and the track fastener apertures 222 so that track 210 is secured to faceplate 145 and the sidewall 120; and

d) positioning the additional weir 230 in the track recesses 225 so that additional weir 230 is moveable along track lengths 215.

[0055] Steps a) through d) may be performed in any suitable order, including simultaneously. Preferably, the track fasteners 223 are slightly longer than the fasteners 146 that are conventionally used to attach the faceplate 145 to the pool sidewall 120, given that the track fasteners 223 must pass through an additional material, namely the tracks 210. The process may include additional steps, such as removing the skimmer weir 170 or providing a weir fastener 250 and immobilizing the skimmer weir 170 with the weir fastener 250.

[0056] The second system is generally designated by the numeral 300, is illustrated in FIGs. 11-18, and generally relates to a deflector 330 that is external to the skimmer 100. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGs. 11-15, the deflector 330 is attached, directly or indirectly, to the sidewall 120 and extends outwards into the pool 110 and above the skimmer opening 135. The deflector 330 further includes an opening 320. The opening 320 may be positioned at or adjacent to the widthwise center of deflector 330, as shown in FIG. 15, or alternatively may be positioned at the left or right side of the deflector 330, as shown in FIGs. 11- 14 and 16-18, so that it is positioned to capture water circulating in a clockwise or counterclockwise fashion (depending on the circulation pattern in the pool 110, more particularly, basin 121). The opening 320 feeds water to the skimmer opening 135 and may be adjacent to the sidewall 120, as shown in FIGs. 11-14. The deflector opening 320 may be any suitable shape, including generally oval-shaped and rectangular. Optionally, the opening 320 is adjacent to the deflector apex 390, which is the furthest point that the deflector 330 extends outward from the sidewall 120, as shown in FIG. 15. Preferably, the deflector 330 extends outward from the sidewall 120 a distance of about 1 inch to about 18 inches so that the deflector 330 does not interfere with swimmers.

[0057] As with the prior embodiment, preferably the skimmer weir 170 is immobilized by a weir fastener 250 or the skimmer weir 170 is removed in the second system 300. In some embodiments, the deflector 330 does not move within the pool 110 other than to slightly deform in response to pressure applied to the deflector 330. Preferably, the deflector 330 is comprised of rubber. Preferably, the opening 320 spans substantially the entire height 335 of the deflector 300, as shown in FIGs. 11-18, and at least above the skimmer opening 135. Preferably, the deflector 330 includes fastener apertures 310 located on flat portions 316 on opposite sides (i.e., the left and right sides) of the deflector 330 and the second system 300 further includes fasteners 315 for attaching the deflector 330 directly or indirectly to the sidewall 120. Preferably, the flat portions 316 have a width 317 at least equal to the thickness 148 of the faceplate 145. For example, the flat portions may have a width 317 of at least 0.5 inches and preferably 1-5 inches so the flat portions 316 lay flat on skimmer faceplate 145. Preferably, the deflector 330 includes a solid, water impermeable floor 340, which abuts the sidewall 120 below the skimmer opening 135, and a top opening 350 so that water flows through only the side or top openings 320 and 350 - and not from the floor 340. Preferably, the deflector 330 includes a curved portion 360 that extends outward from the sidewall 120. Preferably, the deflector 330 has a height of at least 8 inches (e.g., about 8 inches to about 20 inches).

[0058] Optionally, the deflector 330 includes a left flap 370 and a right flap 380 and the opening 320 is located between the left and right flaps 370 and 380, as shown in FIG. 15.

[0059] It will be appreciated the second system 300, like the first system 200 increases the range of a pool skimmer 100 and preferably does not block all water from entering the skimmer opening 135, unlike U.S. Patent No. 7,993,515 to Davies. Rather, the deflector 330 (more particularly openings 320 and 350) feeds water to the skimmer opening 135.

[0060] However, unlike the first system 200, which feeds only the top, debris- containing layer to skimmer opening 135, the second system 300, as described above, is less selective and generally feeds any water that is able to enter through the openings 320 and 350 to the skimmer opening 135. To alleviate this, as seen in

FIGs. 16-18, the deflector 330 may further include an additional weir 313 that moves vertically in response to changing water levels in the basin 121 and the additional weir 313 at least partially covers the opening 320 so that the deflector 330 is selective in this embodiment and only feeds the top, debris -containing layer of water to the skimmer opening 135. In some embodiments, the additional weir 313 travels along tracks 314 located on opposites sides of the opening 320 and optionally the system 300 further includes a motor 325 for moving the additional weir 313 along the tracks 314 and a power source 326 (e.g., battery and/or solar panels) for powering the motor 325. In some embodiments, the opening 320 has a median width of at least about 3 inches (e.g., about 3 to about 6 inches). In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGs. 16-18, the additional weir 313 may be a single piece of plastic that moves like a reverse garage door to close opening 320 (i.e., unlike a typical garage door which moves laterally at the top, the additional weir 313 may move laterally along the floor 340, as best seen in FIG. 17). In other embodiments, the additional weir 313 may be comprised of a series of panels that, for example, fold onto each other at the bottom of opening 320 like an accordion.

[0061] In some embodiments, the deflector 330 includes a vacuum release door 311 and vacuum release opening 312 having the same features as described above for the first system 200 (e.g., spring or magnet-operated system). Optionally, if the second system 300 includes an additional weir 313, the vacuum release door 311 and vacuum release opening 312 may be located on the additional weir 313, as shown in FIGs. 16-18.

[0062] Optionally, to increase the suction power of the second system 300, the deflector 330 includes a narrow channel behind deflector 330 and in front of skimmer opening 135 that has a smaller cross-sectional area than the cross- sectional area of the opening 320. For example, in some embodiments, the cross- sectional area of the channel is from about 4 square inches to about 36 square inches at its narrowest point, more preferably from about 4 square inches to about 20 square inches. This allows the narrow channel to take advantage of the Bernoulli principle, which holds that velocity of water increases when water flows through a narrow constriction. It has been observed in the inventor's experimentation with similar systems that it is advantageous to locate a narrow constriction further into the pool basin 121 (i.e., further from sidewall 120) because doing so allows the suction power created by the constriction to extend further into the basin 121 (and thereby potentially increase the skimming radius of the skimmer 100). In other words, the suction force decreases as the distance from the constriction increases. In such embodiments, preferably the top of deflector 330 is closed (i.e., lacks top opening 350) and water enters through the opening 320, into narrow channel and then into skimmer opening 135. Optionally, the cross-sectional area of the openings 320 and channel may decrease gradually like a funnel to aid the flow of water and debris therethrough. In other embodiments, as opposed to a weir 313 that moves vertically, the opening 320 has a door (not shown) that can be moved by a user laterally over the opening 320 to partially close the opening 320 and reduce the size of opening 320, and thereby take advantage of the Bernoulli principle.

[0063] In some embodiments, as opposed to being attached to the pool sidewall 120, the first and second systems 200 and 300 are attached to the skimmer

100 via an adjustable frame 400, as shown in FIGs. 16- 18. The adjustable frame

400 has an adjustable width and adjustable height to accommodate skimmer throats 196 of different sizes, and is generally positioned where skimmer weir 170 is typically positioned (e.g., behind downwardly extending flange 198 if the flange is present). Preferably, the skimmer 100 includes left and right flanges to the left and right sides of the skimmer weir 170 when the skimmer weir 170 is in vertical position 170A, which provides an additional contact area for adjustable frame 400. An example of such a skimmer is the Hayward SP1084 (Hayward Industries, Elizabeth, NJ). In this embodiment, skimmer weir 170 is typically removed. In some embodiments the adjustable frame was a width of between about 4 to about 14 inches and a height of between about 2 and about 12 inches. The adjustable frame 400 is particularly useful for concrete and gunite pools, which unlike vinyl pools, typically lack a faceplate 145 and would require a significant amount of time to drill a fastener aperture into the sidewall 120. Thus, instead of the fasteners 223, 315 and 520 anchoring the tracks 210, deflector 330 and plate 531 (described below) by attaching to the sidewall 120, the fasteners 223, 315 and 520 instead anchor the tracks 210, deflector 330 and plate 520 by anchoring to the adjustable frame 400. More particularly, the fasteners 223, 315 and 520 pass through apertures 222, 310, and 521 as well as through fastener apertures 402 in the adjustable frame. Again, the adjustable frame apertures 402 may be slotted to allow a user to adjust the system and unused portions of the apertures 402 may be covered so that debris and water does not get trapped in the unused apertures 402. In this embodiment, the adjustable frame 400 is typically prevented from moving forwardly within throat

196 due to the fact skimmers 100 typically have downwardly extending flanges 198 or other narrowings to prevent the skimmer weir 170 from over-rotating beyond the vertical position 170A. And the adjustable frame 400 is typically prevented from moving rearwardly within throat 196 due to the fact that tracks 210, deflector 330 and plate 531 abut the sidewall 120. The adjustable frame 400 may be generally rectangular, include four sides 401 and may include adjustment knobs 403 on each side 401 to allow a user to adjust the frame's height and width, as shown in FIGs. 18-21. In some embodiments, the adjustment knobs (e.g., nuts) 403 may themselves move along threaded rod 408 and the knobs 403 may push against corner pieces 404, 405, 411 and 412 and cause the distance between the pieces 404, 405, 411 and 412 to increase or decrease (thereby increasing or decreasing the width or height of frame 400). In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 19B, each side 401 of the adjustable frame 400 includes a knob 403 having one end 413 attached to a right hand screw 408 and the other end 414 attached to a left hand screw 409 and each screw 408 and 409 is received in a threaded aperture 406 of a corner piece 404, 405, 411 and 412 so that rotation of the knob 403 in one direction (e.g., clockwise) rotates the right hand and left hand screws 408 and 409 further into both corner pieces of the side (and hence decreases the width of the frame 400) and rotation of the knob 403 in another direction (e.g. counterclockwise) rotates the right hand and left hand screws 408 and 409 out of the corner pieces of the side (and hence increases the width of the frame 400).

[0064] Optionally, the second system 300 is provided as a kit.

[0065] The second system 300 may be installed by any suitable process. Optionally, the process includes:

a) removing skimmer the faceplate fasteners 146; b) positioning the flat portions 316 so they abut the faceplate 145 and the faceplate fastener apertures 147 are aligned with the deflector fastener apertures 310; and

c) inserting the deflector fasteners 315 through the faceplate fastener apertures 147 and the deflector fastener apertures 310 so that deflector 330 is secured to the faceplate 145 and sidewall 120.

[0066] In other embodiments, the process includes:

a) removing skimmer weir 170;

b) positioning the adjustable frame 400 into the throat 196 and adjusting the frame's height and width so that the adjustable frame 400 cannot move forwardly within the throat 196 (i.e., towards sidewall 120 by, for example, placing the adjustable frame 400 in the same location vacated by the skimmer weir 170); c) positioning the deflector 330 so that the deflector rear abuts the sidewall 120 and the deflector fastener apertures 310 are aligned with the expandable frame apertures 402; and

d) inserting the deflector fasteners 315 through the deflector fastener apertures 310 and the frame apertures 402 so that deflector 330 is secured to the frame 400.

[0067] The above steps may be performed in any suitable order, including simultaneously, and may include additional steps (e.g., the first method may also include removing the skimmer weir 170 or providing a weir fastener 250 and immobilizing the first weir 170 with the weir fastener 250.). Preferably, in the first method, the deflector fasteners 315 are slightly longer than the fasteners 146 that are conventionally used to attach the faceplate 145 to the pool sidewall 120, given that the deflector fasteners 315 must pass through an additional material, namely the deflector 330. Preferably, for the second method, the deflector fasteners 315 have a length of from about 6 to about 18 inches.

[0068] The present disclosure also provides a third system 500 that is similar in design and function as the first system 200. In some embodiments, the third system 500 includes:

a) a swimming pool 110 comprising a basin 121 configured to hold water and a plurality of sidewalls 120 defining a perimeter of the basin 121;

b) a skimmer 100 comprising a skimmer opening 135 located in one of the sidewalls 120, the skimmer opening 135 in fluid communication with the basin 121; and

c) a weir assembly 532 located in the basin 121 and adjacent to the skimmer opening 135, the weir assembly 532 abutting the one sidewall 120 and comprising a plurality of fastener apertures 521 and an additional weir 530 located in the basin 121, the additional weir 530 configured to move in response to changing water levels in the basin 121, the weir assembly 532 configured to deliver water from the basin 121 to the skimmer opening 135.

[0069] Optionally, the additional weir 530 is configured to move above the skimmer opening 135 so that water located above the skimmer opening 135 can enter the skimmer 100. Optionally, the weir assembly 532 further comprises a vacuum release door 533 and a vacuum release opening 534, the vacuum release door 533 configured to move between a closed position wherein the vacuum release door 533 closes the vacuum release opening 534 and an open position wherein the vacuum release door 533 allows water located in the basin 121 to enter through the vacuum release opening 534 and enter the skimmer opening 135. (Again, the vacuum release door and opening 533 and 534 may have the same components as described with the first system 200). Optionally, the vacuum release door 533 is located in the weir 530. Optionally, the weir assembly 532 further comprises a hinge attaching the vacuum release door 533 to the weir assembly 532 and the vacuum release door 533 is moveable (more particularly, pivotable) along the hinge. Optionally, the weir assembly 532 comprises a top half and a bottom half and the vacuum release opening 534 is located in the bottom half of the weir assembly 532. Optionally, the weir assembly 532 has a height of at least about 4 inches and a width of at least about 4 inches, e.g., a height of from about 4 to about 14 inches and a width of from about 4 inches to about 24 inches.

[0070] Optionally, the weir assembly 532 further comprises a plate 531 abutting the pool sidewall 120 (e.g. directly abutting the sidewall 120 or abutting faceplate 145 attached to the sidewall 120), the plate 531 comprising the plurality of fastener apertures 521, the plate 531 preventing water in the basin 121 from entering the skimmer opening 135 without passing over the weir 530. Optionally, the plate 531 comprises a flat, rear portion abutting the one sidewall 120. Optionally, as shown in FIGs. 21-24, the weir assembly 530 includes a central plate, a left plate and a right plate if the skimmer opening 135 is large, as is the case with skimmers such as the Hayward SP1091 widemouth (Hayward Industries, Elizabeth

NJ), whose opening is 11 and 5/8 inches wide. In other embodiments, e.g., with skimmers 100 such as the Hayward SP1084 (whose opening is 7 and 5/8 inches wide), the skimmer opening 135 is relatively small and only a central plate is needed. Optionally, the plate 531 further comprises a plate opening 535 located between the weir 530 and the skimmer opening 135, the plate opening 535 configured to feed water to the skimmer opening 135, and the weir 530 at least partially covers the plate opening 535. Optionally, the weir 530 further comprises a top 536, the top 536 comprising an opening 537 configured to feed water from the basin 121 to the plate opening 535. Optionally, the top opening leads to a narrow channel whose cross-sectional area decreases gradually like a funnel to aid the flow of water and debris therethrough and increase the suction power of the system 500 through the Bernoulli principle described above.

[0071] Optionally, the system 500 further comprises a plurality of fasteners 520 attaching the weir assembly 532 (more particularly, the plate 531) to the one sidewall 120. Optionally, the system 500 further comprises a pool pump 190 in fluid communication with the skimmer 100, the skimmer 100 further comprises a throat 196 and a water exit aperture/drain 199 located below basket 160 that feeds water from the skimmer 100 to the pool pump 190, the throat 196 located between the skimmer opening 135 and the water exit aperture/drain 199, and the system 500 further comprises an adjustable frame 400 located in the throat 196, as described above.

[0072] Optionally, the system 500 further comprises a plurality of fastener apertures 402 located in the adjustable frame 400 and a plurality of fasteners 520 attaching the adjustable frame 400 to the weir assembly 532, each of the plurality of fasteners 520 passing through a fastener aperture 521 located in the weir assembly 532 and a fastener aperture 402 located in the adjustable frame 400.

Optionally, the weir assembly 532 further comprises a floor 539 located at a bottom of the weir assembly 532, the floor 539 abutting the one pool sidewall 120, the floor 539 configured to inhibit water located in the basin 121 from entering the skimmer opening 135 from below the floor 539. Optionally, the weir assembly 532 further comprises a motor 540 configured to move the weir 530 in response to changing water levels in the basin 121. Optionally, the weir assembly 132 further comprises a track 510 (e.g., one or more tracks) configured to allow the weir 530 to move in response to changing water levels in the basin 121. The track(s) 510 may be generally perpendicular to the ground, in which case, the weir 530 moves vertically up and down, as shown in FIG. 24. Alternatively, the track 510 may be circular, semi-circular or U-shaped, as shown in FIGs. 21 and 23, in which case the weir 530 rotates around the circular, semi-circular or U-shaped track 510. Optionally, the system 500 further comprises a power source 542 (e.g., batteries and/or solar panels) configured to power the motor 540. Optionally, the top 536 of the weir assembly 532 comprises a solar panel configured to power the motor 540. Optionally, the system 500 further comprises a water level sensor 543 configured to sense the water level in the basin 121, and a processor 544 connected to the water level sensor 543 and configured to move the weir 530 in response to data concerning the water level in the basin 121 received from the water level sensor 543. Optionally, the basin 121 is filled with water, and the weir 530 comprises a top 536 and a float 551 located adjacent to the top 536, the float 551 configured to allow the top 536 of the weir 532 to float in the water. Optionally, the weir 532 is buoyant in water.

[0073] Terms of degree such as "substantially", "about" and "approximately" as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. For example, these terms can be construed as including a deviation of at least ± 5% of the modified term if this deviation would not negate the meaning of the word it modifies. In addition, use of the singular form of a term embraces the plural.

[0074] Having now described the invention in accordance with the requirements of the patent statutes, those skilled in the art will understand how to make changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiments to meet their specific requirements or conditions. Changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention, as defined and limited solely by the following claims.