Patent ID: 6158063
Filing Date: 2000-12-12
Classification: E04H,Y10T

Abstract:
A spa cover lifting device for removing, storing and replacing a folding spa cover that is seated on a spa having an external structure with sides and a base the lifting device comprising:a lifting mechanism including a frame apparatus having a horizontal cross member over which the spa cover is foldable and a pair of side members connected to the horizontal cross member wherein a U-shaped yoke is formed with the side members being positionable to depend on opposite sides of the external structure of the spa, the side members each having an end with a mount means on the end for pivotally connecting the frame apparatus to the external structure with the frame apparatus being pivotal from a first position with the spa cover situated on the spa folded over the cross member, to a second position with the spa cover folded over the cross member and vertically suspended adjacent one side of the external structure wherein;each side member has a bend, wherein the side members are configured to enhance the ratio of horizontal displacement of the cross member relative to vertical displacement when pivoting the folded spa cover from the position seated on the spa to the second vertical storage position adjacent the spa, wherein the mount means is a pair of brackets, each bracket having a double acting spring mechanism that engages the frame apparatus and assists in displacing the frame apparatus from the first position to the second position and from the second position to the first position, and wherein the double acting spring mechanism of each bracket includes a pivotal elbow apparatus with an axis of pivot and a coil spring having a coil around the elbow apparatus and the axis of pivot with a first anchor end engaging the end of the side member and moveable with the side member and a second anchor end engageable with the bracket.