Patent Abstract:
An above ground pool is provided. The above ground pool includes a support frame and a pool liner. The pool liner is affixed to and supported by the support frame to form a body for holding water within the pool. The support frame includes a series of horizontal support members and vertical support members, each having an elliptical cross-section. The symmetric shape of the cross-section of the elliptical tubes reduces the difficulties inherent in machining tube bends, simplifies the manufacturing of the tubes, effectively improves the support frame&#39;s stability, and facilitates quality control. The horizontal support members and vertical support members are coupled together by one or more connectors to form an enclosed or ring structure.

Full Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims priority to Chinese Application No. CN201520065126.7, entitled “ABOVE GROUND POOL,” filed on Jan. 29, 2015, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
       BACKGROUND INFORMATION 
       [0002]    1. Technical Field 
         [0003]    The present invention relates to pools, and more specifically, to an above ground pool. 
         [0004]    2. Background 
         [0005]    An above ground pool is a facility installed on a piece of vacant land for recreational usage. For example, it can be installed on the yard of a house or a piece of vacant land elsewhere for adults and children to play together. Due to its ease of installation and usage, above ground pools have become very popular. 
         [0006]    Currently, above ground pools can be mainly categorized into two types: frame pools and inflatable pools. There are a variety of structures and forms for frame pools. A round frame pool is the most typical above ground pool, which mainly includes a series of horizontal support members, vertical support members and a pool liner. In these types of above ground pools, the horizontal support members are connected in sequence via connecting members to form a circular structure. The vertical support members support the circular structure so as to form a support frame, and then the pool liner is affixed to the support frame to form a pool body. The pool body forms an above ground pool or basin for holding water. When a frame pool of this structure is fully filled with water, the water can exert a significant amount of pressure on the pool body, thus the support frame must be sturdy enough to withstand extremely high pressure forces. 
         [0007]    However, most horizontal support members, vertical support members, and connecting members used in the support frames of traditional round frame pools comprise tubes having a D-shaped cross-section. In practical applications, these “D-shaped tubes” have a number of disadvantages. For example, such tubes are difficult to manufacture and control their manufacturing process due to the asymmetric shape of the tubes&#39; cross-section. These D-shaped tubes typically have a structure without a narrowed mouth at a tube end, so the clearance fit between the tube end and a corresponding connector is relatively large, resulting in poor overall stability. Since the shape of the D-shaped tube is asymmetric, it is more difficult to cut to form arcuate corners. Also, the manufacturing cost is fairly costly. All of these factors result in great difficulty in the machining of connector elbows. 
         [0008]    In addition, the connection between corresponding D-shaped tubes is achieved by engagement at single point, such that the connection has a relatively poor firmness and strength. Therefore, support frames formed by the use of D-shaped tubes mentioned above have a lower bearing capacity, thus compromising the safety and performance of the above ground pool. 
         [0009]    Overall, the bearing performance of the support frame of an above ground pool may have a direct impact on the stability of the entire above ground pool. Due to the factors discussed above, conventional above ground pools are prone to collapse and cause injury accidents. Thus, a need therefore exists for an above ground pool having a sturdy support frame that is easy to assemble. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0010]    An above ground pool according to the present invention is provided in order to solve the technical problems present in support frames of conventional above ground pools, namely, the poor bearing capacity of existing above ground pool support frames. 
         [0011]    One example of an above ground pool of the present invention includes a support frame and a pool liner. The support frame includes a series of horizontal support members and vertical support members. The horizontal support members and the vertical support members each include an elongated tube with an elliptical cross-section. 
         [0012]    The pool liner is affixed to the support frame. The pool liner is supported by the support frame to form a body for holding water within the pool. 
         [0013]    In some implementations, the support frame further includes a plurality of T-shaped connectors for coupling the horizontal support members and the vertical support members together. Each T-shaped connector includes a horizontal tubular member and a vertical tubular member transverse to the horizontal tubular member. The horizontal tubular member and the vertical tubular member each has an elliptical cross-section. 
         [0014]    In some implementations, the T-shaped connectors couple two corresponding horizontal support members together in sequence to form a substantially circular ring-shaped structure. In some implementations, the ring-shaped structure may be oval in shape. In some implementations, the vertical tubular member is coupled to a corresponding vertical support member. 
         [0015]    In some implementations, a first end of the horizontal tubular member is detachably connected to an end of a first corresponding horizontal support member and a second end of the horizontal tubular member is detachably connected to an end of a second corresponding horizontal support member. The first corresponding horizontal support member and the second corresponding horizontal support member may be connected to the first end of the horizontal tubular member and the second end of the horizontal tubular member by a retainer located proximal the respective points of attachment. 
         [0016]    In some implementations, the retainer is a retaining pin configured to pass through a first set of positioning holes and a corresponding second set of positioning holes. The first set of positioning holes is formed at the first end of the horizontal tubular member and the second end of the horizontal tubular member. The corresponding second set of positioning holes is formed at ends of the corresponding horizontal support members. The retaining pin is configured to lock the horizontal tubular member and the corresponding horizontal support members together. 
         [0017]    In some implementations, the vertical tubular member is detachably connected to a corresponding vertical support member by a spring-loaded latch coupled to an end of the vertical support member. The latch is configured to engage an aperture formed at an open end of the vertical tubular member. 
         [0018]    In some implementations, the spring-loaded latch includes a pin boss that houses a spring element and detent pin. The pin boss is mounted inside one end of the vertical support member and configured such that the detent pin is outwardly biased by the spring element to engage the aperture. The detent pin is configured to lock the vertical tubular member and the vertical support member together. 
         [0019]    In some implementations, the above ground pool further includes a plurality of tensioning devices coupled to an outer surface of the body of the pool and a tensioning belt. Each tensioning device is coupled to the outer surface of the body in-between two neighboring vertical support members. The tensioning belt may be alternately weaved about the outer surface of the body through the tensioning devices and over the vertical support members to retain the vertical support members close to the body. In some implementations, the tensioning belt is arranged about the body of the pool at a height equal to approximately one-third of the height of the body of the pool. In some implementations, the above ground pool further includes a plurality of support bases coupled to a bottom end of the vertical support members. 
         [0020]    A second example of an above ground pool of the present invention is further provided. The above ground pool includes a support frame and a pool liner. According to this example, the support frame includes a series of horizontal support members, connectors, and U-shaped support members. The horizontal support members and connectors may each have a circular cross-section. The U-shaped support members may have an elliptical cross-section. 
         [0021]    The pool liner is affixed to the support frame. The pool liner is supported by the support frame to form a body for holding water within the pool. 
         [0022]    In some implementations, the horizontal support members are coupled together in series by the connectors to form a ring-shaped structure. In some implementations, the ring-shaped structure forms a rectangle, square, or other polygon shape. In some implementations, the connectors are each L-shaped. 
         [0023]    In some implementations, the above ground pool further includes couplings coupled to free ends of the U-shaped support members. The couplings detachably connect the U-shaped support members to the ring-shaped structure to support the ring-shaped structure in an oblique fashion. 
         [0024]    In some implementations, each free end of the U-shaped support member includes a reduced diameter portion. The reduced diameter portion includes a first set of latching holes spaced apart from a second set of latching holes. 
         [0025]    In some implementations, the coupling further includes a flexible V-shaped pin and a hollow casing. The flexible V-shaped pin includes a first pair of studs spaced apart from a second pair of studs. The hollow casing includes a pair of orifices. The flexible pin is disposed within the reduced diameter portion of U-shaped support members such that the first pair of studs extends through the second set of latching holes to engage the pair of orifices, and the second pair of studs extends through the first set of latching holes. 
         [0026]    In some implementations, the casing is a tube having an oval cross-section corresponding with the cross-section of the U-shaped support members. 
         [0027]    In some implementations, the above ground pool further includes a plurality of support belts coupled to and arranged about a bottom portion of the body of the pool. Each support belt is coupled between the bottom portion of the body of the pool and a horizontal portion of a corresponding U-shaped support member. 
         [0028]    In some implementations, each support belt includes a sleeve for passing the horizontal portion of the U-shaped support member therethrough. 
         [0029]    A first example of a support frame for an above ground pool of the present invention is provided. The support frame includes a plurality of horizontal support members and a plurality of vertical support members, where a pool liner may be affixed to and supported by the support frame to form a body for holding water within the pool. 
         [0030]    The horizontal support members may include an elongated tube with an elliptical cross-section. The vertical support members may be coupled to the horizontal support members. The vertical support members may include an elongated tube with an elliptical cross-section. 
         [0031]    In some implementations, the support frame further includes a plurality of T-shaped connectors for coupling the horizontal support members and the vertical support members together. The T-shaped connector including a horizontal tubular member and a vertical tubular member transverse to the horizontal tubular member. The horizontal tubular member and the vertical tubular member each has an elliptical cross-section. 
         [0032]    In some implementations, the T-shaped connectors couple two corresponding horizontal support members together in sequence to form a substantially circular ring-shaped structure. In some implementations, the ring-shaped structure may be oval in shape. 
         [0033]    In some implementations, the vertical tubular member is coupled to a corresponding vertical support member. In some implementations, a first end of the horizontal tubular member is detachably connected to an end of a first corresponding horizontal support member and a second end of the horizontal tubular member is detachably connected to an end of a second corresponding horizontal support member. The first corresponding horizontal support member and the second corresponding horizontal support member are connected to the first end of the horizontal tubular member and the second end of the horizontal tubular member by a retainer located proximal the respective points of attachment. 
         [0034]    In some implementations, the retainer is a retaining pin configured to pass through a first set of positioning holes formed at the first end of the horizontal tubular member and the second end of the horizontal tubular member, and a corresponding second set of positioning holes formed at ends of the corresponding horizontal support members. The retaining pin is configured to lock the horizontal tubular member and the corresponding horizontal support members together. 
         [0035]    In some implementations, the vertical tubular member is detachably connected to a corresponding vertical support member by a spring-loaded latch coupled to an end of the vertical support member. The latch is configured to engage an aperture formed at an open end of the vertical tubular member. 
         [0036]    In some implementations, the spring-loaded latch includes a pin boss that houses a spring element and detent pin. The pin boss is mounted inside one end of the vertical support member and configured such that the detent pin is outwardly biased by the spring element to engage the aperture. The detent pin is configured to lock the vertical tubular member and the vertical support member together. 
         [0037]    In some implementations, the support frame further includes a plurality of tensioning devices coupled to an outer surface of the body of the pool and a tensioning belt. Each tensioning device may be coupled to the outer surface of the body in-between two neighboring vertical support members The tensioning belt may be alternately weaved about the outer surface of the body through the tensioning devices and over the vertical support members to retain the vertical support members close to the body. 
         [0038]    In some implementations, the tensioning belt is arranged about the body of the pool at a height equal to approximately one-third of the height of the body of the pool. In some implementations, the above ground pool further includes a plurality of support bases coupled to a bottom end of the vertical support members. 
         [0039]    A second example of a support frame for an above ground pool of the present invention is further provided. The support frame includes a plurality of horizontal support members, a plurality of connectors, and a plurality of U-shaped support members, where a pool liner may be affixed to and supported by the support frame to form a body for holding water within the pool. 
         [0040]    The plurality horizontal support members each include an elongated tube with a circular cross-section. Each of the connectors that couple corresponding horizontal support members together comprise an L-shapes tube with a circular cross-section. 
         [0041]    Each of U-shaped support members comprise a U-shaped tube with an elliptical cross-section. In some implementations, the horizontal support members are coupled together in series by the connectors to form a ring-shaped structure. In some implementations, the ring-shaped structure forms a rectangle, square or other polygon shape. 
         [0042]    In some implementations, the above ground pool further includes couplings coupled to free ends of the U-shaped support members. The couplings detachably connect the U-shaped support members to the ring-shaped structure to support the ring structure in an oblique fashion. 
         [0000]    In some implementations, each free end of the U-shaped support member has a reduced diameter portion, the reduced diameter portion having a first set of latching holes spaced apart from a second set of latching holes. 
         [0043]    In some implementations, the coupling further includes a flexible V-shaped pin including a first pair of studs spaced apart from a second pair of studs and a hollow casing. The hollow casing includes a pair of orifices. The flexible pin is disposed within the reduced diameter portion of U-shaped support members such that the first pair of studs extends through the second set of latching holes to engage the pair of orifices, and the second pair of studs extends through the first set of latching holes. In some implementations, the casing includes a tube with an oval cross-section corresponding with the cross-section of the U-shaped support members. 
         [0044]    In some implementations, the support frame further includes a plurality of support belts coupled to and arranged about a bottom portion of the body of the pool. Each support belt may be coupled between the bottom portion of the body of the pool and a horizontal portion of a corresponding U-shaped support member. In some implementations, each support belt includes a sleeve for passing the horizontal portion of the U-shaped support member therethrough. 
         [0045]    Advantageously, support frames of above ground pools according to the present invention are at least partially composed of tubes with an elliptical cross-section. The symmetric shape of the cross-section reduces the difficulty in machining a tube bend, lowers the complexity in manufacturing the tubes, effectively improves the stability, and facilitates quality control. Meanwhile, a slight clearance fit between the tube end of the elliptical tubes and the connector may be achieved. This enables the support frame to withstand large mechanical stresses and provide stability and enhanced structural support. In addition, a bolt connection is utilized between the tube end of the elliptical tubes and the connector. Such bolt connection is secure and provides greater strength. Therefore, support frames formed by elliptical tubes provide better bearing performance, thereby improving the stability of the entire above ground pool and providing an excellent safety performance. 
         [0046]    Other devices, apparatus, systems, methods, features and advantages of the disclosure will be or will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description, and be protected by the accompanying claims. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0047]    The above-mentioned and other features, properties and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompany drawings, in which: 
           [0048]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view illustrating one example of an implementation of a support frame of an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention. 
           [0049]      FIG. 2  is a front view of the support frame illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0050]      FIG. 3  is a top view of the support frame illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0051]      FIG. 4  is a partial exploded view of the support frame of  FIG. 1 , illustrating how corresponding horizontal support members are coupled with a vertical support member by a T-shaped connector. 
           [0052]      FIG. 5  is another partial exploded view of the support frame of  FIG. 1 , illustrating how corresponding horizontal support members are coupled with a vertical support member by a T-shaped connector. 
           [0053]      FIG. 6  is a partial cross-sectional view of the support frame of  FIG. 1 , illustrating how a horizontal support member is coupled to the T-shaped connector. 
           [0054]      FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a spring-loaded latch for connecting a vertical support member and a T-shaped connector in the support frame of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0055]      FIG. 8  is a bottom view of the spring-loaded latch illustrated in  FIG. 7 . 
           [0056]      FIG. 9  is a side view of the spring-loaded latch illustrated in  FIG. 7 . 
           [0057]      FIG. 10  is a front view of the spring-loaded latch illustrated in  FIG. 7 . 
           [0058]      FIG. 11  is an exploded perspective view of the spring-loaded latch illustrated in  FIG. 7 . 
           [0059]      FIG. 12  is a perspective view illustrating an above ground pool incorporating the support frame illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
           [0060]      FIG. 13  is a perspective view illustrating a second example of an implementation of a support frame of an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention. 
           [0061]      FIG. 14  is a top view of the support frame illustrated in  FIG. 13 . 
           [0062]      FIG. 15  is a front view of the support frame illustrated in  FIG. 13 . 
           [0063]      FIG. 16  is a side view of the support frame illustrated in  FIG. 13 . 
           [0064]      FIG. 17  is a partial exploded view of the support frame of  FIG. 13 , illustrating how corresponding horizontal support members are coupled with the U-shaped support members. 
           [0065]      FIG. 18  is a perspective view of a horizontal support member of the support frame illustrated in  FIG. 13 . 
           [0066]      FIG. 19  is a side view of the horizontal support member illustrated in  FIG. 18 . 
           [0067]      FIG. 20  is a perspective view of a U-shaped support member of the support frame illustrated in  FIG. 13 . 
           [0068]      FIG. 21  is a front view of the U-Shaped support member illustrated in  FIG. 20 . 
           [0069]      FIG. 22  is a partial cross-sectional view of the support frame of  FIG. 13  illustrating how the U-shaped support members are coupled to the horizontal support members. 
           [0070]      FIG. 23  is a partial cross-sectional view of the support frame of  FIG. 13  illustrating how the neighboring horizontal support members are coupled together. 
           [0071]      FIG. 24  is a perspective view of a positioning member of the support frame illustrated in  FIG. 13 . 
           [0072]      FIG. 25  is a front view of the positioning member illustrated in  FIG. 24 . 
           [0073]      FIG. 26  is a top view of the positioning member illustrated in  FIG. 24 . 
           [0074]      FIG. 27  is a side view of the positioning member illustrated in  FIG. 24 . 
           [0075]      FIG. 28  is a perspective view illustrating an above ground pool incorporating the support frame illustrated in  FIG. 13 . 
           [0076]      FIG. 29  is a perspective view illustrating a third example of an implementation of a support frame of an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention. 
           [0077]      FIG. 30  is an enlarged view of the portion A in  FIG. 29 . 
           [0078]      FIG. 31  is a front view of the support frame illustrated in  FIG. 29 . 
           [0079]      FIG. 32  is a side view of the support frame illustrated in  FIG. 29 . 
           [0080]      FIG. 33  is a top view of the support frame illustrated in  FIG. 29 . 
           [0081]      FIG. 34  is a perspective view illustrating an above ground pool incorporating the support frame illustrated in  FIG. 29 . 
           [0082]      FIG. 35  is a top view illustrating a fourth example of an implementation of a support frame of an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0083]    The present invention will be further described below in conjunction with particular example implementations and the accompanying drawings. Further details are provided in the following description in order for the present invention to be fully understood. However, the present invention can be implemented in various ways other than those described herein. A person skilled in the art can make similar analogies and modifications according to practical applications without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and therefore the contents of the particular examples herein should not be construed as limiting to the scope of the present invention. 
         [0084]      FIGS. 1-30  illustrate various implementations of a support frame for an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention. Referring now to  FIGS. 1-3 ,  FIG. 1  is a perspective view illustrating one example of an implementation of a support frame  10  of an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention.  FIG. 2  is a front view of the support frame  10 .  FIG. 3  is a top view of the support frame  10 . 
         [0085]    As shown, the support frame  10  includes a plurality of horizontal support members  11  and a plurality of vertical support members  12 . The horizontal support members  11  and the vertical support members  12  each include an elongated tubular member with an elliptical cross-section. The vertical support members  12  are coupled to the horizontal support members  11 . The support frame  10  may further include a plurality of T-shaped connectors  13  that are mainly used to couple the horizontal support members  11  and the vertical support members  12  together. 
         [0086]    Referring now to  FIGS. 4-6 ,  FIG. 4  is a partial exploded view of the support frame  10  illustrating how corresponding horizontal support members  11  are coupled with a vertical support member  12  by the T-shaped connector  13 .  FIG. 5  is another partial exploded view of the support frame  10  illustrating how corresponding horizontal support members  11  are coupled with a vertical support member  12  by a T-shaped connector  13 .  FIG. 6  is a partial cross-sectional view of the support frame  10  illustrating how a horizontal support member  11  is coupled to the T-shaped connector  13 . 
         [0087]    As shown, the T-shaped connector  13  includes a horizontal tubular member  130  and a vertical tubular member  131 . The vertical tubular member  131  is transversely arranged on the horizontal tubular member  130 . In particular, the vertical tubular member  131  is transversely perpendicular to the horizontal tubular member  130 . The horizontal tubular member  130  and the vertical tubular member  131  each have an elliptical cross-section. 
         [0088]    The T-shaped connectors  13  couple two neighboring horizontal support members  11  together in sequence by means of the horizontal tubular member  130 . In this way, the horizontal support members  11  may be coupled together to form a substantially circular ring structure (as best shown in  FIG. 3 ). 
         [0089]    Turning back to  FIGS. 4 and 5 , a first end  132  of the horizontal tubular member  130  of each T-shaped connector  13  may be detachably coupled to an end  112  of a first corresponding horizontal support member  110 . A second end  133  of the horizontal tubular member  130  may, likewise, be detachably coupled to an end  113  of a second corresponding horizontal support member  111 . The first corresponding horizontal support member  110  and the second corresponding horizontal support member  111  may respectively be coupled to the first end  132  and the second end  133  of the horizontal tubular member  130  by a retainer, as discussed in further detail below. In order to ensure the stability and firmness of the coupling, the retainer should be located proximal the respective points of attachment between the horizontal support members  110 ,  111  and the horizontal tube member  130 . 
         [0090]    In some implementations, the retainer may include a retaining pin  14 . In other implementations, the retainer may include claps, threaded fasteners, or other suitable attachment means. As shown in  FIG. 4-6 , a first set of positioning holes  134  is provided on the first end  132  and the second end  133  of the horizontal tubular member  130 . A corresponding second set of positioning holes  114  is provided on the end  112  of the first horizontal support member  110  and the end  113  of the second horizontal support member  111 . When the first end  132  and the second end  133  of the horizontal tubular member  130  of the T-shaped connector  13  are respectively butt-jointed to the end  112  of the first horizontal support member  110  and the end  113  of the second horizontal support member  111 , the first set of positioning holes  134  is correspondingly aligned with the second set of positioning holes  114 . In this alignment, the retaining pin  14  may be passed through the first set of positioning holes  134  and the corresponding second set of positioning holes  114  (as shown in  FIG. 6 ), so that the horizontal tubular member  130  of the T-shaped connector  13  and the corresponding horizontal support members (i.e., the first horizontal support member  110  and the second horizontal support member  111 ) are, for example, snap-locked together. In some implementations, a bearing pad  140  may be provided between the retaining pin  14  and the horizontal tubular member  130  to reduce the wear between the retaining pin  14  and the horizontal tubular member  130  and increase robustness therebetween. 
         [0091]    Similarly, the vertical tubular member  131  of the T-shaped connector  13  may be coupled to a corresponding vertical support member  12 . As shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , the vertical tubular member  131  of each T-shaped connector  13  may be detachably connected to the corresponding vertical support member  12  by a spring-loaded latch  15 . During connection, the spring-loaded latch  15  is coupled to an end  121  of the vertical support member  12 . An aperture  122  is provided at an open end of the end  121 . The spring-loaded latch  15  is disposed in the end  121  of the vertical tubular member  131  and engages and is locked with the aperture  122 . 
         [0092]    Referring to  FIGS. 7-11 ,  FIG. 7  is a perspective view of one example of a spring-loaded latch  15  for coupling the vertical support member  12  with a T-shaped connector  13 .  FIG. 8  is a bottom view of the spring-loaded latch  15 .  FIG. 9  is a side view of the spring-loaded latch  15 .  FIG. 10  is a front view of the spring-loaded latch  15 .  FIG. 11  is exploded perspective view of the spring-loaded latch  15 . 
         [0093]    As shown, the spring-loaded latch  15  includes a pin boss  150 . The pin boss  150  houses a spring element  151  and a detent pin  152 . The pin boss  150  includes a hollow circular annular outer wall  153  with an outwardly protruding, semi-circular accommodating cavity  154  coupled to an open end of the annular outer wall  153 . The spring element  151  may be mounted within the accommodating cavity  154  such that one end of the detent pin  152  passes through the interior of the accommodating cavity  154  and bears against the spring element  151 , while the other end is outwardly biased, such that a portion of the detent pin may extend out from the accommodating cavity  154  (as best shown in  FIGS. 7 and 8 ). 
         [0094]    The annular outer wall  153  may be shaped to match or otherwise complement the cross-section of the end  121  of the vertical support member  12  (as shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5 ). When the spring-loaded latch  15  is fitted into the end  121  of the vertical support member  12 , the annular outer wall  153  of the pin boss  150  is embedded in the interior of the end  121  of the vertical support member  12  such that the detent pin  152  snap-fitted into the aperture  122  on the end  121  of the vertical support member  12  under the elastic force of the spring element  151 . 
         [0095]    Turning back to  FIG. 5 , an aperture  135  may be formed at an open end of the vertical tubular member  131  of the T-shaped connector  13 . The vertical tubular member  131  is butt-jointed to the end  121  of the vertical support member  12 . The aperture  135  on the vertical tubular member  131  may be aligned with the aperture  122  on the vertical support member  12 , so that the detent pin  152  passes through the apertures  122  and  135  to, for example, snap-lock the T-shaped connector  13  to the vertical support member  12 . 
         [0096]      FIG. 12  is a perspective view of one example of an above ground pool  100  incorporating the support frame  10 . As shown in  FIG. 12 , the above ground pool  100  includes the support frame  10  and a pool liner  16 . The pool liner  16  may be affixed to and supported by the support frame  10  to form a pool body for holding water. In some implementations, the upper part of the pool liner  16  may be sheathed on the horizontal support members  11 , and the periphery of the pool liner  16  may lie against the vertical support members  12 . 
         [0097]    In order to further secure the poor liner  16  to the above ground pool  100 , the above ground pool  100  may further include a plurality of tensioning devices  17  and a tensioning belt  18 . The tensioning devices  17  include one or more straps or loops coupled to an outer surface of the pool body. Each tensioning device  17  may be coupled to the outer surface of the body in-between two neighboring vertical support members  12 . The tensioning belt  18  may be alternately weaved about the outer surface of the body through the tensioning devices  17  and over the vertical support members  12  to retain the vertical support members  12  close to the pool body, thereby increasing the tensioning force of the pool body. In some implementations, the tensioning belt  18  may be arranged about the pool body at a height equal to approximately one-third of the height of the pool body. The tensioning belt  18  serves to reinforce the lower structure of the pool body to impart a greater bearing capacity. In some implementations, the above ground pool  100  may further include a plurality of support bases  120  coupled to a bottom end of the vertical support members  12  for improving the overall robustness of the above ground pool  100 . 
         [0098]    Referring to  FIGS. 13-16 ,  FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a second example of a support frame  20  of an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention.  FIG. 14  is a top view of the support frame  20 .  FIG. 15  is a front view of the support frame  20 .  FIG. 16  is a side view of the support frame  20 . 
         [0099]    As shown, the support frame  20  includes a plurality of horizontal support members  21 , a plurality of connectors  22 , and a plurality of U-shaped support members  23 . Each horizontal support member  21  has a circular cross-section. The connectors  22  are used for to couple corresponding horizontal support members  21  together, and each connector  22  has a circular cross-section. Free ends of the U-shaped support members  23  are connected to the horizontal support members  21  and each U-shaped support member  23  has an elliptical cross-section. The horizontal support members  21  are coupled together in series by the plurality of connectors  22  to form a ring structure. In the present implementation, the connectors  22  may be L-shaped such that the ring structure forms a rectangle. In other implementations, the connectors  22  may have other shapes, such as V-shape, such that the ring structure may for a polygon or other geometric shape. 
         [0100]      FIG. 17  is a partial exploded view of the support frame  20 , illustrating how corresponding horizontal support members  21  are coupled with the U-shaped support members  23  and L-shaped connectors  22 . As shown, when the ring structure forms a rectangle or polygon, the sides of the rectangle or polygon are formed by the horizontal support members  21 . Every two or corresponding horizontal support members  21  are connected in series successively. The corner parts of the sides of the rectangle are formed by the L-shaped connectors  22  connected between corresponding horizontal support members  21 . 
         [0101]    Each horizontal support member  21  is further connected to a corresponding U-shaped support member  23 . The horizontal support members  21  may be affixed to each other via a positioning member  25 . The horizontal support member  21  and the connector  22  may likewise be affixed to each other via a positioning member  25 . However, a coupling  24  may be required to fixedly connect the U-shaped support member  23  and the horizontal support member  21  to each other. 
         [0102]      FIG. 18  is a perspective view of the horizontal support member  21 , and  FIG. 19  is a front view of the horizontal support member  21 . As shown in these figures, one end  211  of the horizontal support member  21  includes a reduced diametrical portion and a first aperture  212  in the reduced portion. A second aperture  215  is formed at an opposite end  213  of the horizontal support member  21 . One or more connection opening  214  are formed along a rod surface of the horizontal support member  21  for receiving free ends of a corresponding U-shaped support member  23 . 
         [0103]    Referring now to  FIGS. 20-22 ,  FIG. 20  is a perspective view of the U-shaped support member  23 .  FIG. 21  is a front view of the U-shaped support member  23 . As shown in  FIGS. 20 and 21 , the free end of the U-shaped support members  23  include a reduced diameter portion  231  having a first set of latching holes  232  spaced apart from a second set of latching holes  233 . 
         [0104]      FIG. 22  is a partial cross-sectional view of the support frame  20 , illustrating how the free ends of U-shaped support members  23  are connected to the horizontal support members  21 . As shown in  FIG. 22 , in conjunction with  FIG. 17 , the coupling  24  is coupled in the reduced diameter portion  231  of the free ends of the U-shaped support members  23 , such that the U-shaped support member  23  is detachably connected to the ring structure via the coupling  24 . The U-shaped support members  23  support the ring structure in an oblique fashion; for example, the U-shaped support member  23  may be inclined outwardly along the ring structure by 30° or any other suitable angle. 
         [0105]    The coupling  24  may include a flexible V-shaped pin  241  and a hollow casing  242 . The flexible V-shaped pin  241  may include a first pair of studs  243  spaced apart from a second pair of studs  244 . 
         [0106]    The hollow casing  242  includes a pair of orifices  245  and the hollow casing  242  is sheathed outside the reduced diameter portion  231  of the U-shaped support member  23  such that the first set of latching holes  232  and the second set of latching holes  233  are respectively aligned with the orifices  245 . The flexible V-shaped pin  241  is positioned within the reduced diameter portion  231  of the U-shaped support member  23  such that the first pair of studs  243  extends through the second set of latching holes  233  to engage the corresponding orifices  245 . Likewise, the second pair of studs  244  extends through the first set of latching holes  232 . In this way, the U-shaped support member  23  and the horizontal support member  21  may be, for example, snap-locked together via the couplings  24 . 
         [0107]    The hollow casing  242  includes a tube having an oval cross-section corresponding with the cross-section of the U-shaped support members  23 . As such, the connection between the U-shaped support members  23  and the horizontal support members  21  may be more robust. 
         [0108]      FIG. 23  is a partial cross-sectional view of the support frame  20 , illustrating how neighboring horizontal support members  21  are coupled together a positioning member  25 . As shown in  FIG. 23 , in conjunction with  FIGS. 17-19 , the sides of the rectangle or polygon ring structure are formed by the horizontal support members  21 . Every two or corresponding horizontal support members  21  are connected in series successively via the positioning members  25 . The positioning member  25  is sheathed on the reduced diameter portion of end  211  of one of the horizontal support members  21 , and the other end  213  of the other neighboring horizontal support member  21  is sheathed outside the positioning member  25 , such that the two neighboring horizontal support members  21  are affixed to each other. 
         [0109]    Turing now to the positioning member  25 ,  FIG. 24  is a bottom perspective view of the positioning member  25 .  FIG. 25  is a front view of the positioning member  25 .  FIG. 26  is a top view of the positioning member  25 .  FIG. 27  is a side view of the positioning member  25 . 
         [0110]    As shown in  FIGS. 24-27 , in conjunction with  FIG. 17-19 , the positioning member  25  includes a hollow sheathing member  251  comprising a tube with an oval cross-section corresponding to the cross-section of the reduced diameter portion of the horizontal support member  21 . One end of the positioning member  25  is provided with an annular stud  252 . The cross-section of the annular stud  252  corresponds to the cross-section of the horizontal support members  21 . The opposite end of the positioning member  25  is provided with a locking buckle  253 . When two neighboring horizontal support members  21  are connected, one end of the positioning member  25  is sheathed on the reduced diameter portion of one end  211  of one of the horizontal support members  21 , with the other end  213  of the other neighboring horizontal support member  21  is sheathed outside the positioning member  25 . In this way, the locking buckle  253  passes through the second aperture  215  of the other end  213  of the horizontal support member  21  so that the locking of two neighboring horizontal support members  21  can be achieved. 
         [0111]    Likewise, the L-shaped connector  22  and corresponding horizontal support members  21  may also be fixedly locked with each other via the positioning member  25 . For example, one end of the positioning member  25  may be sheathed at one end of the L-shaped connector  22 , while the opposite end  213  of the horizontal support member  21  may be sheathed on the positioning member  25 , such that the locking buckle  253  passes through the second aperture  215  of the opposite end  213  of the horizontal support member  21  and the locking of the horizontal support member  21  and the L-shaped connector  22  can be achieved (not shown in the Figures). 
         [0112]      FIG. 28  is a perspective view illustrating one example of an above ground pool  200  incorporating the support frame  20 . As shown, the above ground pool  200  includes the support frame  20  (as shown in  FIG. 13 ) and a pool liner  26 . The pool liner  26  may be affixed to and supported by the support frame  20  to form a pool body for holding water. In some implementations, the upper part of the pool liner  26  may be sheathed on the horizontal support members  21  such that the periphery of the pool liner  26  lies against the U-shaped support members  23 . 
         [0113]    In order to further secure the poor liner  26 , the above ground pool  200  may further include a plurality of support belts  27 . The support belts  27  may be coupled to and arranged about a bottom portion of the body of the pool. Each support belt  27  may be coupled between the bottom portion of the body of the pool and a horizontal portion of a corresponding U-shaped support member  23 . In particular, in order to increase the strength of support of the support belts  27 , each support belt  27  may include a sleeve  271  where the horizontal portion of the U-shaped support member  23  passes through the sleeve  271  of the support belt  27  to tension the support belt  27 . 
         [0114]    Turning to  FIGS. 29-34 ,  FIG. 29  is a perspective view illustrating a third example of an implementation of a support frame  30  an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention.  FIG. 30  is an enlarged view of the portion A in  FIG. 29 .  FIG. 31  is a front view of the support frame  30 .  FIG. 32  is a side view of the support frame  30 .  FIG. 33  is a top view of the support frame  30 . 
         [0115]    As shown in  FIGS. 29-33 , the support frame  30  may include a plurality of horizontal support members  31 , a plurality of vertical support members  32 , and a plurality of U-shaped support members  34 . The horizontal support members  31  and the vertical support members  32  may each have an elliptical cross-section, and the vertical support members  32  may be coupled to the horizontal support members  31 . 
         [0116]    The support frame  30  may further include a plurality of T-shaped connectors  33  which are used to couple the horizontal support members  31  and the vertical support members  32  together. As best shown in  FIG. 30 , the T-shaped connectors  33  may include a horizontal tubular member  330  and a vertical tubular member  331 , where the vertical tubular member  331  is transversely arranged on the horizontal tubular member  330 . In particular, the vertical tubular member  331  is transverse and perpendicular to the horizontal tubular member  330 . Moreover, the horizontal tubular member  330  and the vertical tubular member  331  may each have an elliptical cross-section. 
         [0117]    The T-shaped connectors  33  may be used to couple two neighboring horizontal support members  31  together in sequence via the horizontal tubular members  330 . At the same time, at least some of the neighboring horizontal support members  31  may be connected in series via the positioning members  35 . In this way, the T-shaped connectors  33  and the positioning members  35  together couple the plurality of horizontal support members  31  with one another to form a substantially elliptical ring structure. 
         [0118]    As further shown in  FIG. 30 , opposite ends  332  of the horizontal tubular member  330  of each T-shaped connector  33  may be detachably connected to ends of the corresponding horizontal support members  31 . The corresponding horizontal support members  31  may be respectively connected to opposite ends  332  of the horizontal tubular member  330  by a retainer. To ensure the stability and firmness of the coupling, the retainer may be located proximal the respective points of attachment between the horizontal tubular member  330  and the T-shaped connector  33 . 
         [0119]    In like manner, the vertical tubular member  331  of the T-shaped connector  33  may be coupled to a corresponding vertical support member  32 . The vertical tubular member  331  of each T-shaped connector  33  may be detachably connected to the corresponding vertical support member  32  by a spring-loaded latch. 
         [0120]    It should be noted that the structure of the T-shaped connector  33  in the present example is the same as that of the T-shaped connector  13  in the example above. In particular, the manner in which the T-shaped connectors  33  are coupled to the horizontal support members  31  and the vertical support members  32  is the same as that described the examples above. The structure of the positioning member  35  in the present example is also the same as that of positioning member  25  in the example above, and the manner in which the positioning member  35  is connected to the horizontal support member  31  is the same as that of the first example above, the detailed description of which is omitted for brevity. 
         [0121]    The U-shaped support members  34  may be detachably connected to the ring structure via the couplings. The U-shaped support members  34  support the ring structure in an oblique fashion. For example, a U-shaped support member  34  may be inclined outwardly along the ring structure by angle of 30°. It is further noted that free ends of the U-shaped support members  34  are coupled to the corresponding horizontal support members  31 , and each U-shaped support member  34  has an elliptical cross-section. The structure of the U-shaped support member  34  in the present example is the same as that of the U-shaped support member  23  in the second example, and the manner in which the U-shaped support member  34  is coupled to the horizontal support member  31  is the same as that described in the second example, the detailed description of which is omitted for brevity. 
         [0122]      FIG. 34  is a perspective view of illustrating one example of an above ground pool  300  incorporating the support frame  30 . As shown, the above ground pool  300  includes the support frame  30  (as shown in  FIG. 29 ) and a pool liner  36 , where the pool liner  36  may be affixed to and supported by the support frame  30  to form a pool body for holding water. In some implementations, the upper part of the pool liner  36  may be sheathed on the horizontal support members  31  such that the periphery of the pool liner  36  lies against the vertical support members  32 . 
         [0123]    In order to further secure the poor liner  36 , the above ground pool  300  may further include a plurality of tensioning devices  37  and a tensioning belt  38 . The tensioning devices  37  may be coupled to an outer surface of the pool body. In some implementations, each tensioning device  37  may be coupled to the outer surface of the body in-between two neighboring vertical support members  32 . The tensioning belt  38  may be alternately weaved about the outer surface of the body through the tensioning devices  37  and over the vertical support members  32  to retain the vertical support members  32  close to the pool body, thereby increasing the tensioning force of the pool body. In some implementations, the tensioning belt  38  may be arranged about the pool body at a height equal to approximately one-third of the height of the pool body to effectively reinforce the lower structure of the pool body to impart a greater bearing capacity. In some implementations, the above ground pool  300  may further include a plurality of support bases  320 , where the support bases  320  are coupled to a bottom end of the vertical support members  32  for improving the overall robustness of the above ground pool  300 . 
         [0124]    The above ground pool  300  may further include a plurality of support belts  39  that may be coupled to and arranged about a bottom portion of the body of the pool. Each support belt  39  may be coupled between the bottom portion of the body of the pool and a horizontal portion of a corresponding U-shaped support member  34 . In particular, in order to increase the strength of support of the support belts  39 , each support belt  39  may include a sleeve  391  adapted to allow the horizontal portion of the U-shaped support member  34  to pass through the sleeve  391  of the support belt  39  to tension the support belt  39 . 
         [0125]      FIG. 35  is a top view illustrating a fourth example of an implementation of a support frame  40  of an above ground pool according to the teachings of the present invention. As shown, the support frame  40  is substantially the same as that of the support frame  30  of the previous example, except that support frame  40  includes a plurality of horizontal support members  41 , a plurality of arcuate support members  42 , a plurality of vertical support members (not shown), and a plurality of U-shaped support members  44 . The horizontal support members  41 , the arcuate support members  42 , the U-shaped support members  44  and the vertical support members may each have an elliptical cross-section. The vertical support members may be coupled to the plurality of arcuate support members  42  in an upright or vertical fashion. The U-shaped support members  44  may be coupled to the horizontal support members  41  in an oblique fashion. 
         [0126]    The support frame  40  may further include a plurality of T-shaped connectors  43 , each comprising a horizontal tubular member and a vertical tubular member. The vertical tubular member is transversely arranged on the horizontal tubular member. In some implementations, the vertical tubular member is transversely perpendicular to the horizontal tubular member. 
         [0127]    The horizontal tubular member and the vertical tubular member may each have an elliptical cross-section. The connectors  43  couple two neighboring arcuate support members  42  together in sequence via the horizontal tubular members. At the same time, the horizontal support members  41  are connected in series via the positioning members  45 . In this way, the T-shaped connectors  43  and positioning members  45  couple the horizontal support members  41  and the arcuate support members  42  with one another to form an elliptical ring structure. 
         [0128]    It should be noted that the structure of the T-shaped connector  43  in the present example is the same as that of the T-shaped connectors described in the previous examples, and the T-shaped connector  43  is coupled to the arcuate support member  42  and the vertical support member in the same manner as that described in the first example above. The structure of the positioning member  45  in the present example is the same as that of the positioning member  25  in the second example above. The positioning member  45  is, further, connected to the horizontal support member  41  in the same manner as that described in the first example above. 
         [0129]    Further, the structure of the U-shaped support member  44  in the present example is the same as that of the U-shaped support member  23  in the second example. The U-shaped support member  44  may be coupled to the horizontal support member  41  in the manner as that described in the second example above, the detailed description of which is omitted for brevity. 
         [0130]    In summary, by improving the structure of the support frame, a more robust above ground pool structure with a high bearing capacity may be achieved according to the teachings the present invention. The support frame is at least partially composed of tubes having an elliptical cross-section. Due to the symmetric shape of the cross-section of the elliptical tubes, difficulties in the manufacture of the tubes are reduced, thus effectively improving the support frame&#39;s stability. A slight clearance fit between the ends of the elliptical tubes and each connector enables the support frame to withstand large mechanical stresses and contributes to its enhanced stability. In addition, a tailored bolt connection is provided between the ends of the elliptical tubes and each connector, which is more secure and provides greater structural strength. Therefore, above ground pools according to the teachings of the present invention provide better bearing performance and the overall stability and safety performance than existing above ground pool designs. 
         [0131]    The various components of the support frame of the present invention may be constructed from molded or machined stainless steel, aluminum, metal, iron, plastic, fiberglass, composite, polycarbonate, alloy, or other suitable materials. The pool liner, tensioning devices, tensioning belt, and support belt of the present invention may be constructed of flexible reinforced polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU) cloth, plastic, canvas, tactical nylon webbing, or any other durable material. Above ground pools of the present invention may further incorporate other components not shown or described herein, such as water pumps, valves, piping, motors, or other pool components and accessories known in the art. 
         [0132]    In general, terms such as “coupled to,” and “configured for coupling to,” and “secured to,” and “configured for securing to” and “in communication with” (for example, a first component is “coupled to” or “is configured for coupling to” or is “configured for securing to” or is “in communication with” a second component) are used herein to indicate a structural, functional, mechanical, electrical, signal, optical, magnetic, electromagnetic, ionic or fluidic relationship between two or more components or elements. As such, the fact that one component is said to be in communication with a second component is not intended to exclude the possibility that additional components may be present between, and/or operatively associated or engaged with, the first and second components. 
         [0133]    While the detailed embodiments of the present invention have been described, a person skilled in the art should understand that these are merely illustrative, and that the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. Various alterations or modifications can be made by a person skilled in the art to these embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention. However, these alterations and modifications shall all fall within the scope of the present invention.

Technology Classification (CPC): 4