Patent ID: 7827643
Filing Date: 2010-11-09
Classification: E04H

Abstract:
1. A self-propelled apparatus for cleaning the submerged bottom surfaces of a pool or tank, the apparatus comprising: (a) reversible drive means for propelling the apparatus in opposite directions corresponding to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus; (b) a housing formed by a top wall, depending front and rear walls and depending side walls, the front, rear and side walls defining the periphery of the apparatus, said front wall being defined with respect to forward directional movement of the apparatus; and (c) at least one stationary projecting pivot member affixed directly to the housing, wherein at least a portion of the at least one projecting pivot member projects outwardly beyond a peripheral side wall of the housing in a direction that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus, said projecting pivot member having a free end formed of a frictional material having a high coefficient of friction, said frictional material being stationary with respect to the housing and serving as a pivot when it contacts a side wall of the pool that is adjacent the side wall of the housing from which said free end extends, to thereby pivotally change the orientation of the apparatus.