Automated surge weir and rim skimming gutter flow control system

Claim 2

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system for swimming pools comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool for cleaning; a gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, receiving overflow across a top edge thereof and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level in the swimming pool; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; skimming means receiving skimming flow across a top edge thereof at the perimeter of the swimming pool; a first drain valve in the first drain line which when open allows water from the pool to flow to the water recirculation system, and when closed stops such flow; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system, receiving pool water via each draim line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; and at least one water level-responsive sensor sensing and directly responding to the level of water in the balance means and adjusting the water recirculation flow from the pool and from the gutter to increase water recirculation system capacity for flow from the gutter and prevent gutter water flooding back from the gutter to the pool.

Claim 3

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system for swimming pools in accordance with claim 1, comprising a second gutter receiving skimming flow and also providing additional gutter capacity for extraordinary gutter flow, including relief flow from the first gutter in the event of considerable activity in the pool.

Claim 4

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system for swimming pools in accordance with claim 1, where in the balance means is a balance tank.

Claim 5

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system for swimming pool in accordance with claim 1, wherein the balance means is a vacuum filter.

Claim 6

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system for swimming pools in accordance with claim 1, wherein the skimming means comprises a closure member movable between open and closed positions; the sensor senses a predetermined water level in the balance means at which skimming flow corresponds to a greater-than-normal skimming flow, and moves the closure into a closed position arresting skimming flow and retaining water in the pool, but allowing flow surges to proceed into the gutter.

Claim 7

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system for swimming pools in accordance with claim 5, wherein the skimming means comprises at least one surge weir in a pool perimeter wall, and the closure closes the surge weir.

Claim 8

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system for swimming pools in accordance with claim 1, wherein the sensor senses a predetermined water level in the balance means at which overflow exceeds normal recirculation flow combined from the first and second lines and closes the first drain valve so that the recirculation system receives only pool water flowing from the gutter.

Claim 9

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system for swimming pools in accordance with claim 1, wherein the water recirculation system includes a recirculating flow throttling valve, movable between open and closed positions and controlling recirculating flow to and from the pool; and the sensor senses a predetermined water level in the balance means at which the capacity of the recirculation system is exceeded, and adjusts the throttling valve, increasing the amount of water drawn through the recirculation system to accommodate this excess flow.

Claim 10

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system for swimming pools in accordance with claim 1 wherein the water recirculating system includes a filter and a line bypassing the filter, and a bypass valve movable between open and closed positions, controlling flow through the bypass line; and the sensor opens the bypass valve, thereby opening the line bypassing the filter.

Claim 11

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system for swimming pools in accordance with claim 1, comprising a recirculating flow throttling control valve on the return line of the recirculation system; a first sensor that senses a predetermined water level in the balance means at which overflow exceeds normal recirculation flow combined from drains and closes the first drain valve, so that the recirculation system receives only pool water flowing from the gutter; and a second sensor that senses a predetermined water level in the balance means at which the capacity of the recirculation system is exceeded, and adjusts the throttling valve to increase the amount of water drawn through the recirculation system, to accommodate this excess flow.

Claim 12

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system for swimming pools in accordance with claim 1, wherein the skimming means comprises a closure member movable between open and closed positions; the water recirculation system includes a recirculating flow throttling valve, movable between open and closed positions and controlling recirculating flow to and from the pool; and comprising a first sensor that senses a predetermined water level in the balance means at which skimming flow corresponds to a greater-than-normal skimming flow, and closes the closure, arresting skimming flow and retaining water in the pool, but allowing flow surges to proceed into the gutter; a second sensor that senses a predetermined water level in the balance means at which flow exceeds normal recirculation flow combined from the first and second drains and closes the first drain valve so that the recirculation system receives only pool water flowing from the gutter; and a third sensor that senses a predetermined water level in the balance means at which the capacity of the recirculation system is exceeded, and adjusts the throttling control valve to increase the amount of water drawn through the recirculation system, to accommodate this excess flow.

Claim 13

A twin-gutter automated pool perimeter skimming flow gutter perimeter control system for swimming pools comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool to cleaning; a drain valve in the first drain line which when open allows water from the pool to flow to the water recirculation system and when closed stops such flow; a first gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a second gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the gutter conduit, over the top of which wall water may flow from the pool into a gutter conduit; the top of the wall being placed at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, to provide a skimming flow of water at such predetermined water level in the pool, and to allow excessive flows, wave actions and surges to flow over the top of the wall into a gutter conduit; a second drain line connecting the first and second gutters with the water cleaning and recirculating system for water feed from the first and second gutter conduits, for cleaning; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; and a sensor sensing a water level in the balance means characteristic of a high degree of water flow, wave action and surges into a gutter conduit, and closing the drain valve and thereby increasing water recirculation system capacity to recirculate such increased overflow and prevent wash-back from a gutter conduit to the pool.

Claim 14

A twin-gutter automated pool perimeter skimming flow gutter perimeter control system for swimming pools comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool to cleaning; a drain valve in the first drain line which when open allows water from the pool to flow to the water recirculation system and when closed stops such flow; a first gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a second gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the gutter conduit, over the top of which wall water may flow from the pool into a gutter conduit; the top of the wall being placed at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, to provide a skimming flow of water at such predetermined water level in the pool, and to allow excessive flows, wave actions and surges to flow over the top of the wall into a gutter conduit; a second drain line connecting the first and second gutters with the water cleaning and recirculating system for water feed from the first and second gutter conduits, for cleaning; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; and a sensor sensing a water level in the balance means characteristic of a high degree of water flow, wave action and surges into a gutter conduit, and closing the drain valve and thereby increasing water recirculation system capacity to recirculate such increased overflow and prevent wash-back from a gutter conduit to the pool.

Claim 15

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system in accordance with claim 12, in which the first gutter conduit is an open through.

Claim 16

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system in accordance with claim 12, in which the fluid flow connection between the first and second gutter conduits is in the form of a plurality of slots at the predetermined maximum level of water in the first gutter conduit.

Claim 17

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system in accordance with claim 12, in which a water-feed conduit is provided for feed of fresh water into the pool.

Claim 18

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system in accordance with claim 15, in which the water feed conduit is disposed beside the first gutter conduit.

Claim 19

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system in accordance with claim 15, in which the water feed conduit is disposed within the first gutter conduit.

Claim 20

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system in accordance with claim 15, in which the water feed conduit is disposed within the second gutter conduit.

Claim 21

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system in accordance with claim 12, in which the two gutter conduits are separated by a common wall, and the fluid flow connection between the two gutters is provided by a plurality of openings through the wall.

Claim 22

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system in accordance with claim 12, comprising at least one jet water feed inlet in either the first or the second gutter conduit, or both, for driving water and debris along the gutter conduit.

Claim 23

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system in accordance with claim 12, in the form of a modular wall unit adapted to be assembled end-to-end with other such units to form the perimeter gutter wall of a swimming pool.

Claim 24

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system in accordance with claim 12, in which the second gutter is within the pool side retaining wall of the first gutter conduit.

Claim 25

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system in accordance with claim 12, in which the second gutter is within an external peripheral wall of the first gutter conduit.

Claim 26

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system for swimming pools comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool for cleaning; a first gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the gutter conduit, over the top of which wall water may flow from the pool into the gutter conduit; a second gutter conduit in fluid flow communication with the first gutter conduit at a predetermined maximum water level in the first gutter conduit, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool and in the first gutter conduit; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; at least one surge weir having a weir closure movable between open and closed positions and disposed through the retaining wall below the top thereof, at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, and to provide a skimming flow of water through the weir at such predetermined water level in the pool, the top of the wall being spaced above the weir at a height to retain the pool water within the pool perimeter when the weir is closed at water flows, wave actions and surges up to a predetermined minimum, while allowing excessive flows, wave actions and surges beyond such minimum to flow over the top of the wall into the first gutter conduit; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; and a sensor sensing a water level in the balance means corresponding to pool activity inducing excessive weir skimming flow, and closing at least one weir closure, thereby to decrease gutter flow, and prevent exceeding water recirculation system capacity and wash-back from a gutter conduit to the pool.

Claim 27

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system for swimming pools comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool for cleaning; a first gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the gutter conduit, over the top of which wall water may flow from the pool into the gutter conduit; a second gutter conduit in fluid flow communication with the first gutter conduit at a predetermined maximum water level in the first gutter conduit, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool and in the first gutter conduit; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; at least one surge weir having a weir closure movable between open and closed positions and disposed through the retaining wall below the top thereof, at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, and to provide a skimming flow of water through the weir at such predetermined water level in the pool, the top of the wall being spaced above the weir at a height to retain the pool water within the pool perimeter when the weir is closed at water flows, wave actions and surges up to a predetermined minimum, while allowing excessive flows, wave actions and surges beyond such minimum to flow over the top of the wall into the first gutter conduit; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; and a sensor sensing a water level in the balance means corresponding to pool activity inducing excessive weir skimming flow, and closing at least one weir closure, thereby to decrease gutter flow, and prevent exceeding water recirculation system capacity and wash-back from a gutter conduit to the pool.

Claim 28

An automated skimming flow perimeter gutter control system in accordance with claim 24, having a drain valve in the first drain line and a second sensor senses a higher water level in the balance means in the second gutter, and closes the drain valve, thereby increasing water recirculation capacity for gutter flow at such higher water level.

Claim 29

A swimming pool comprising side walls and a bottom adapted to retain water therewithin, and, extending about the upper perimeter of at least a portion of one side wall thereof, a perimeter skimming gutter comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool for cleaning; a gutter conduit disposed about the perimeter of the swimming pool, receiving overflow across a top edge thereof and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level in the swimming pool; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; skimming means receiving skimming flow across a top edge thereof at the perimeter of the swimming pool; a first drain valve in the first drain line which when open allows water from the pool to flow to the water recirculation system, and when closed stops such flow; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system, receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; and at least one water level-responsive sensor sensing and directly responding to the level of water in the balance means and adjusting the water recirculation flow from the pool and from the gutter to increase water recirculation system capacity for flow from the gutter and prevent gutter water flooding back from the gutter to the pool.

Claim 30

A swimming pool comprising side walls and a bottom adapted to retain water therewithin, and, extending about the upper perimeter of at least a portion of one side wall thereof, a perimeter skimming gutter comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool for cleaning; a gutter conduit disposed about the perimeter of the swimming pool, receiving overflow across a top edge thereof and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level in the swimming pool; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; skimming means receiving skimming flow across a top edge thereof at the perimeter of the swimming pool; a first drain valve in the first drain line which when open allows water from the pool to flow to the water recirculation system, and when closed stops such flow; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system, receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; and at least one water level-responsive sensor sensing and directly responding to the level of water in the balance means and adjusting the water recirculation flow from the pool and from the gutter to increase water recirculation system capacity for flow from the gutter and prevent gutter water flooding back from the gutter to the pool.

Claim 31

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 26 in which the perimeter skimming gutter comprises a second gutter receiving skimming flow and also providing additional gutter capacity for extraordinary gutter flow, including relief flow from the first gutter in the event of considerable activity in the pool.

Claim 32

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 26 wherein the balance means is a balance tank.

Claim 33

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 26 wherein the balance means is a vacuum filter.

Claim 34

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 26 wherein the skimming means comprises a closure member movable between open and closed positions; the sensor senses a predetermined water level in the balance means at which skimming flow corresponds to a greater-than-normal skimming flow, and moves the closure into a closed position, arresting skimming flow and retaining water in the pool, but allowing flow surges to proceed into the gutter.

Claim 35

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 30, wherein the skimming means comprises at least one surge weir in a pool perimeter wall, and the closure closes the surge weir.

Claim 36

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 26, wherein the sensor senses a predetermined water level in the balance means at which overflow exceeds normal recirculation flow combined from the first and second lines and closes the first drain valve so that the recirculation system receives only pool water flowing from the gutter.

Claim 37

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 26, wherein the water recirculation system includes a recirculating flow throttling valve, movable between open and closed positions and controlling recirculating flow to and from the pool; and the sensor senses a predetermined water level in the balance means at which the capacity of the recirculation system is exceeded, and adjusts the throttling valve, increasing the amount of water drawn through the recirculation system to accommodate this excess flow.

Claim 38

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 26, wherein the water recirculating system includes a filter and a line bypassing the filter, and a bypass valve movable between open and closed positions, controlling flow through the bypass line; and the sensor opens the bypass valve, thereby opening the line bypassing the filter.

Claim 39

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 26, comprising a recirculating flow throttling control valve on the return line of the recirculation system; a first sensor that senses a predetermined water level in the balance means at which overflow exceeds normal recirculation flow combined from drains, and closes the first drain valve, so that the recirculation system receives only pool water flowing from the gutter; and a second sensor that senses a predetermined water level in the balance means at which the capacity of the recirculation system is exceeded, and adjusts the throttling valve to increase the amount of water drawn through the recirculation system, to accommodate this excess flow.

Claim 40

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 26, wherein the skimming means comprises a closure member movable between open and closed positions; the water recirculation system includes a recirculating flow throttling valve, movable between open and closed positions and controlling recirculating flow to and from the pool; and comprising a first sensor that senses a predetermined water level in the balance means at which skimming flow corresponds to a greater-than-normal skimming flow, and closes the closure, arresting skimming flow and retaining water in the pool, but allowing flow surges to proceed into the gutter; a second sensor that senses a predetermined water level in the balance means at which flow exceeds normal recirculation flow combined from the first and second drains and closes the first drain valve so that the recirculation system receives only pool water flowing from the gutter; and a third sensor that senses a predetermined water level in the balance means at which the capacity of the recirculation system is exceeded, and adjusts the throttling control valve to increase the amount of water drawn through the recirculation system, to accommodate this excess flow.

Claim 41

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 26, comprising, in combination, a second gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the gutter conduit, over the top of which wall water may flow from the pool into the first gutter conduit; the top of the wall being placed at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, to provide a skimming flow of water at such predetermined water level in the pool, and to allow excessive flows, wave actions and surges to flow over the top of the wall into the first gutter conduit; and a third drain line connecting the first and second gutters with the water cleaning and recirculating system for water feed from the first and second gutter conduits, for cleaning.

Claim 42

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 37, in which the first gutter conduit is an open trough.

Claim 43

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 37, having a fluid flow connection between the first and second gutter conduits in the form of a plurality of slots at the predetermined maximum level of water in the first gutter conduit.

Claim 44

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 37, in which the two gutter conduits are separated by a common wall, and the fluid flow connection between the two gutters is provided by a plurality of openings through the wall.

Claim 45

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 37, comprising at least one jet water-feed inlet in either the first or the second gutter conduit, or both, for driving water and debris along the gutter conduit.

Claim 46

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 37, in the form of a modular wall unit adapted to be assembled end-to-end with other such units to form the perimeter gutter wall of a swimming pool.

Claim 47

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 37, in which the second gutter is within the pool side retaining wall of the first gutter conduit.

Claim 48

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 37, in which the second gutter is within an external peripheral wall of the first gutter conduit.

Claim 49

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 37, in which a water-feed conduit is provided for feed of fresh water into the pool.

Claim 50

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 45, in which the water-feed conduit is disposed beside the first gutter conduit.

Claim 51

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 45, in which the water-feed conduit is disposed within the first gutter conduit.

Claim 52

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 45, in which the water-feed conduit is disposed within the second gutter conduit.

Claim 53

A swimming pool comprising side walls and a bottom adapted to retain water therwithin, and extending about the upper perimeter of at least a portion of one side wall thereof, a perimeter skimming gutter comprising in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool for cleaning; a first gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the gutter conduit, over the top of which wall water may flow from the pool into the gutter conduit; a second gutter conduit in fluid flow communication with the first gutter conduit at a predetermined maximum water level in the first gutter conduit, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool and in the first gutter conduit; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; at least one surge weir having a weir closure movable between open and closed positions and disposed through the retaining wall below the top thereof, at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, and to provide a skimming flow of water through the weir at such predetermined water level in the pool, the top of the wall being spaced above the weir at a height to retain the pool water within the pool perimeter when the weir is closed at water flows, wave actions and surges up to a predetermined minimum, while allowing excessive flows, wave actions and surges beyond such minimum to flow over the top of the wall into the first gutter conduit; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; and a sensor sensing a water level in the balance means corresponding to pool activity inducing excessive weir skimming flow, and closing at least one weir closure, thereby to decrease gutter flow, and prevent exceeding water recirculation system capacity and wash-back from a gutter conduit to the pool.

Claim 54

A swimming pool comprising side walls and a bottom adapted to retain water therwithin, and extending about the upper perimeter of at least a portion of one side wall thereof, a perimeter skimming gutter comprising in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool for cleaning; a first gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the gutter conduit, over the top of which wall water may flow from the pool into the gutter conduit; a second gutter conduit in fluid flow communication with the first gutter conduit at a predetermined maximum water level in the first gutter conduit, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool and in the first gutter conduit; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; at least one surge weir having a weir closure movable between open and closed positions and disposed through the retaining wall below the top thereof, at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, and to provide a skimming flow of water through the weir at such predetermined water level in the pool, the top of the wall being spaced above the weir at a height to retain the pool water within the pool perimeter when the weir is closed at water flows, wave actions and surges up to a predetermined minimum, while allowing excessive flows, wave actions and surges beyond such minimum to flow over the top of the wall into the first gutter conduit; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; and a sensor sensing a water level in the balance means corresponding to pool activity inducing excessive weir skimming flow, and closing at least one weir closure, thereby to decrease gutter flow, and prevent exceeding water recirculation system capacity and wash-back from a gutter conduit to the pool.

Claim 55

A swimming pool in accordance with claim 49 having a drain valve in the first drain line and a second sensor that senses a higher water level in the balance means in the second gutter, and closes the drain valve, thereby increasing water recirculation capacity for gutter flow at such higher water level.

Claim 56

An automated pool perimeter skimming gutter control system comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water from the pool for cleaning; a drain valve in the first drain line which when open allows water from the pool to flow to the water recirculation system and when closed stops such flow; a gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the gutter conduit, over the top rim of which wall water may flow from the pool into the gutter conduit; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; at least one surge weir having a weir closure movable between open and closed positions and disposed through the retaining wall below the top rim thereof, at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, and to provide a skimming flow of water through the weir at such predetermined water level in the pool, the top rim of the wall being spaced above the weir at a height to retain the pool water within the pool perimeter when the weir is closed at water flow, wave actions and surges up to a predetermined minimum, while allowing excessive flows, wave actions and surges beyond such minimum to flow over the top of the wall into the gutter conduit; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; a first sensor sensing a first water level in the balance means characteristic of a low threshold of pool activity but excessive weir skimming flow, and arranged to close at least one weir closure, and a second sensor sensing a second level in the balance means corresponding to a higher level of pool activity, and arranged to close the drain valve and thereby increase water recirculation system capacity to accommodate such increased overflow, and prevent wash-back from a gutter conduit to the pool.

Claim 57

An automated pool perimeter skimming gutter control system comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water from the pool for cleaning; a drain valve in the first drain line which when open allows water from the pool to flow to the water recirculation system and when closed stops such flow; a gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the gutter conduit, over the top rim of which wall water may flow from the pool into the gutter conduit; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; at least one surge weir having a weir closure movable between open and closed positions and disposed through the retaining wall below the top rim thereof, at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, and to provide a skimming flow of water through the weir at such predetermined water level in the pool, the top rim of the wall being spaced above the weir at a height to retain the pool water within the pool perimeter when the weir is closed at water flow, wave actions and surges up to a predetermined minimum, while allowing excessive flows, wave actions and surges beyond such minimum to flow over the top of the wall into the gutter conduit; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; a first sensor sensing a first water level in the balance means characteristic of a low threshold of pool activity but excessive weir skimming flow, and arranged to close at least one weir closure, and a second sensor sensing a second level in the balance means corresponding to a higher level of pool activity, and arranged to close the drain valve and thereby increase water recirculation system capacity to accommodate such increased overflow, and prevent wash-back from a gutter conduit to the pool.

Claim 58

A twin-gutter automated pool perimeter skimming gutter control system comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool for cleaning; a drain valve in the first drain line which when open allows water from the pool to flow to the water recirculation system and when closed stops such flow; a first gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the first gutter conduit, over the top rim of which wall water may flow from the pool into the first gutter conduit; a second gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; at least one surge weir having a weir closure movable between open and closed positions and disposed through the retaining wall below the top rim thereof, at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, and to provide a skimming flow of water through the weir at such predetermined water level in the pool, the top rim of the wall being spaced above the weir at a height to retain the pool water within the pool perimeter when the weir is closed at water flows, wave actions and surges up to a predetermined minimum, while allowing excessive flows, wave actions and surges beyond such minimum to flow over the top rim of the wall into the first gutter conduit; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; a first sensor sensing a first water level in the balance means characteristic of a low threshhold of pool activity but excessive weir skimming flow, and arranged to close at least one weir closure; and a second sensor sensing a second higher level in the balance means characteristic of a high degree of water flow, wave action and surges into the first gutter conduit, and closing the drain valve and thereby increasing water recirculation system capacity to recirculate such increased gutter flow and prevent wash-back from a gutter conduit to the pool.

Claim 59

A twin-gutter automated pool perimeter skimming gutter control system comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool for cleaning; a drain valve in the first drain line which when open allows water from the pool to flow to the water recirculation system and when closed stops such flow; a first gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the first gutter conduit, over the top rim of which wall water may flow from the pool into the first gutter conduit; a second gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; at least one surge weir having a weir closure movable between open and closed positions and disposed through the retaining wall below the top rim thereof, at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, and to provide a skimming flow of water through the weir at such predetermined water level in the pool, the top rim of the wall being spaced above the weir at a height to retain the pool water within the pool perimeter when the weir is closed at water flows, wave actions and surges up to a predetermined minimum, while allowing excessive flows, wave actions and surges beyond such minimum to flow over the top rim of the wall into the first gutter conduit; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; a first sensor sensing a first water level in the balance means characteristic of a low threshhold of pool activity but excessive weir skimming flow, and arranged to close at least one weir closure; and a second sensor sensing a second higher level in the balance means characteristic of a high degree of water flow, wave action and surges into the first gutter conduit, and closing the drain valve and thereby increasing water recirculation system capacity to recirculate such increased gutter flow and prevent wash-back from a gutter conduit to the pool.

Claim 60

A twin-gutter automated pool perimeter skimming gutter control system comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool for cleaning; a first gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the gutter conduit, over the top rim of which wall water may flow from the pool into the gutter conduit; a second gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; at least one surge weir having a weir closure movable between open and closed positions and disposed through the retaining wall below the top rim thereof, at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, and to provide a skimming flow of water through the weir at such predetermined water level in the pool, the top rim of the wall being spaced above the weir at a height to retain the pool water within the pool perimeter when the weir is closed at water flows, wave actions and surges up to a predetermined minimum, while allowing excessive flows, wave actions and surges beyond such minimum to flow over the top rim of the wall into the first gutter conduit; a water recirculation throttling valve controlling the capacity for recirculating water flow of water cleaning and recirculating system; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; a first sensor sensing a first water level in the balance means characteristic of a low threshhold of pool activity but excessive weir skimming flow, and closing at least one weir closure; and a second sensor sensing a second higher level in the balance means characteristic of a high degree of water flow, wave action and surges into the first gutter conduit, and adjusting the water recirculation throttling valve to increase water recirculation system capacity to recirculate such increased gutter flow and prevent wash-back from a gutter conduit to the pool.

Claim 61

A twin-gutter automated pool perimeter skimming gutter control system comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool for cleaning; a first gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the gutter conduit, over the top rim of which wall water may flow from the pool into the gutter conduit; a second gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; at least one surge weir having a weir closure movable between open and closed positions and disposed through the retaining wall below the top rim thereof, at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, and to provide a skimming flow of water through the weir at such predetermined water level in the pool, the top rim of the wall being spaced above the weir at a height to retain the pool water within the pool perimeter when the weir is closed at water flows, wave actions and surges up to a predetermined minimum, while allowing excessive flows, wave actions and surges beyond such minimum to flow over the top rim of the wall into the first gutter conduit; a water recirculation throttling valve controlling the capacity for recirculating water flow of water cleaning and recirculating system; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; a first sensor sensing a first water level in the balance means characteristic of a low threshhold of pool activity but excessive weir skimming flow, and closing at least one weir closure; and a second sensor sensing a second higher level in the balance means characteristic of a high degree of water flow, wave action and surges into the first gutter conduit, and adjusting the water recirculation throttling valve to increase water recirculation system capacity to recirculate such increased gutter flow and prevent wash-back from a gutter conduit to the pool.

Claim 62

An automated perimeter skimming gutter control system comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool for cleaning; a drain valve in the first drain line which when open allows water from the pool to flow to the water recirculation system and when closed stops such flow; a gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the gutter conduit, over the top of which wall water may flow from the pool into the gutter conduit; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; at least one surge weir having a weir closure movable between open and closed positions and disposed through the retaining wall below the top thereof, at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, and to provide a skimming flow of water through the weir at such predetermined water level in the pool, the top of the wall being spaced above the weir at a height to retain the pool water within the pool perimeter when the weir is closed at water flows, wave actions and surges up to a predetermined minimum, while allowing excessive flows, wave actions and surges beyond such minimum to flow over the top of the wall into the gutter conduit; a water recirculation throttling valve controlling the capacity for recirculating water flow of the water cleaning and recirculating system; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; a first sensor sensing a first water level in the balance means characteristic of a low threshhold of pool activity but excessive weir skimming flow, and closing at least one weir closure; a second sensor sensing a second higher level in the balance means characteristic of a high degree of water flow, wave action and surges into the gutter conduit, and closing the first drain valve, thereby increasing water recirculation system capacity to recirculate such increased gutter flow; and a third sensor sensing a third higher level in the balance means characteristic of a higher degree of water flow, wave action and surges into the gutter conduit; and adjusting the water recirculation throttling valve to increase recirculation system capacity to accommodate such increased overflow, and prevent wash-back from the gutter conduit to the pool.

Claim 63

An automated perimeter skimming gutter control system comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool for cleaning; a drain valve in the first drain line which when open allows water from the pool to flow to the water recirculation system and when closed stops such flow; a gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the gutter conduit, over the top of which wall water may flow from the pool into the gutter conduit; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; at least one surge weir having a weir closure movable between open and closed positions and disposed through the retaining wall below the top thereof, at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, and to provide a skimming flow of water through the weir at such predetermined water level in the pool, the top of the wall being spaced above the weir at a height to retain the pool water within the pool perimeter when the weir is closed at water flows, wave actions and surges up to a predetermined minimum, while allowing excessive flows, wave actions and surges beyond such minimum to flow over the top of the wall into the gutter conduit; a water recirculation throttling valve controlling the capacity for recirculating water flow of the water cleaning and recirculating system; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation system receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; a first sensor sensing a first water level in the balance means characteristic of a low threshhold of pool activity but excessive weir skimming flow, and closing at least one weir closure; a second sensor sensing a second higher level in the balance means characteristic of a high degree of water flow, wave action and surges into the gutter conduit, and closing the first drain valve, thereby increasing water recirculation system capacity to recirculate such increased gutter flow; and a third sensor sensing a third higher level in the balance means characteristic of a higher degree of water flow, wave action and surges into the gutter conduit; and adjusting the water recirculation throttling valve to increase recirculation system capacity to accommodate such increased overflow, and prevent wash-back from the gutter conduit to the pool.

Claim 64

A twin-gutter automated pool perimeter skimming gutter control system comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool for cleaning; a drain valve in the first drain line which when open allows water from the pool to flow to the water recirculation system and when closed stops such flow; a first gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the first gutter conduit, over the top of which wall water may flow from the pool into the first gutter conduit; a second gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; at least one surge weir having a weir closure movable between open and closed positions and disposed through the retaining wall below the top thereof, at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, and to provide a skimming flow of water through the weir at such predetermined water level in the pool, the top of the wall being spaced above the weir at a height to retain the pool water within the pool perimeter when the weir is closed at water flows, wave actions and surges up to a predetermined minimum, while allowing excessive flows, wave actions and surges beyond such minimum to flow over the top of the wall into the first gutter conduit; a water recirculation throttling valve controlling the capacity for recirculating water flow of the water cleaning and recirculating system; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation sytem receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; a first sensor sensing a higher water level in the balance means characteristic of a low threshhold of pool activity, but excessive weir skimming flow, and closing at least one weir closure; a second sensor sensing a higher level in the balance means characteristic of a high degree of water flow, wave action and surges into the first gutter conduit, and closing the first drain valve, thereby increasing water recirculation system capacity to recirculate such increased gutter flow to the pool; and a third sensor sensing a higher level in the balance means characteristic of a higher degree of water flow, wave action and surges into the conduit, and adjusting the water recirculation throttling valve to increase recirculation system capacity to accommodate such increased gutter flow, and prevent wash-back from a gutter conduit to the pool.

Claim 65

A twin-gutter automated pool perimeter skimming gutter control system comprising, in combination, a water cleaning and recirculation system receiving water from the pool, cleaning it, and returning it to the pool; a first drain line connecting the pool to the water recirculation system for water feed from the pool for cleaning; a drain valve in the first drain line which when open allows water from the pool to flow to the water recirculation system and when closed stops such flow; a first gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a retaining wall on the pool side of the first gutter conduit, over the top of which wall water may flow from the pool into the first gutter conduit; a second gutter conduit for disposition about the perimeter of a swimming pool, and adapted to carry water at a level below a predetermined level of water in the swimming pool; a second drain line connecting the gutter conduit with the water recirculation system for water feed from the gutter for cleaning; at least one surge weir having a weir closure movable between open and closed positions and disposed through the retaining wall below the top thereof, at a height to maintain a predetermined water level in the pool, and to provide a skimming flow of water through the weir at such predetermined water level in the pool, the top of the wall being spaced above the weir at a height to retain the pool water within the pool perimeter when the weir is closed at water flows, wave actions and surges up to a predetermined minimum, while allowing excessive flows, wave actions and surges beyond such minimum to flow over the top of the wall into the first gutter conduit; a water recirculation throttling valve controlling the capacity for recirculating water flow of the water cleaning and recirculating system; a balance means in flow connection with the first and second drain lines and the water recirculation sytem receiving pool water via each drain line, blending the pool waters, and flowing the blended waters to the water recirculation system; a first sensor sensing a higher water level in the balance means characteristic of a low threshhold of pool activity, but excessive weir skimming flow, and closing at least one weir closure; a second sensor sensing a higher level in the balance means characteristic of a high degree of water flow, wave action and surges into the first gutter conduit, and closing the first drain valve, thereby increasing water recirculation system capacity to recirculate such increased gutter flow to the pool; and a third sensor sensing a higher level in the balance means characteristic of a higher degree of water flow, wave action and surges into the conduit, and adjusting the water recirculation throttling valve to increase recirculation system capacity to accommodate such increased gutter flow, and prevent wash-back from a gutter conduit to the pool.