Patent ID: 6030180
Filing Date: 2000-02-29
Classification: A61H,A63B

Abstract:
Apparatus for generating a current in a vessel containing a liquid, the apparatus comprising a housing having an open front end forming an inlet for receiving liquid from the vessel, an intake chamber within the vessel in communication with the inlet, a discharge tube within the housing defining a discharge channel and having an open front end forming a discharge outlet, pump means containing a pumping element for receiving liquid from the intake chamber and for expelling liquid into the vessel via the discharge channel and discharge outlet, and guide means outlet, and guide means arranged to direct liquid to flow longitudinally in the discharge channel substantially without swirling, wherein the inlet to the intake chamber and the discharge outlet from the discharge tube are disposed at the same end of the housing with the discharge outlet at least partly surrounded by the inlet formed by said open front end of the housing and wherein the discharge tube contains the pumping element of the pump means and the guide means, and wherein a safety guard is provided for the inlet to the intake chamber, the safety guard being formed from a plurality of grid or grate members having openings to allow liquid to pass through.