Patent ID: 6412133
Filing Date: 2002-07-02
Classification: E04H

Abstract:
A self-propelled cleaning apparatus for cleaning the submerged bottom surface of a pool or tank, said apparatus being is propelled by the discharge of a water jet, the apparatus comprising:a water pump with a pump discharge outlet for emitting a pressurized stream of water, the axis of the pressurized stream discharged from the pump discharge outlet being generally normal to the surface of the pool or tank; a directional discharge conduit in fluid communication with the pump discharge outlet, the discharge conduit having at least one discharge opening through which the water jet is directionally discharged from the apparatus, the axis of the portion of the discharge conduit proximate the at least one conduit discharge opening being generally normal to the axis of the pressurized stream exiting the pump discharge outlet; and a water jet valve located between the pump discharge outlet and the at least one discharge opening in the discharge conduit, the water jet valve being operable between first and second discharge positions to direct the water jet in generally opposite directions, whereby the pressurized water stream discharged from the pump discharge outlet undergoes only one right-angle change of direction before being discharged from the apparatus to move over the bottom surface of the pool in a direction that is determined by the position of the water jet valve.