Patent Description:
Swimming pools are commonly used for sports and leisure activities. In order to make efficient use of the available space, it is common to divide the pool into lanes, allowing multiple swimmers to use the pool simultaneously. However, it is often necessary to adjust the length of the lanes to accommodate different types of training or events.

There are several prior art solutions for dividing lanes in a swimming pool. Such solutions according to the state of the art are disclosed in <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT>. One approach is to use ropes (e.g. lane ropes) or floats that can be placed across the width of the pool to create lane dividers. However, these dividers can easily become tangled or dislodged, which can be hazardous for swimmers. Further, they do not allow the swimmers push against them when turning. Additionally, ropes and floats are often difficult to set up and adjust, which can be time-consuming and disruptive to pool users.

Another prior art solution involves installing permanent or hinged lane dividers in the pool. These dividers are typically made of plastic or metal and are anchored to the pool floor. While these dividers are more stable than ropes and floats, they are also more expensive to install and can be difficult to remove or adjust. Additionally, permanent dividers can limit the flexibility of the pool, making it less adaptable to different types of events or training needs. Further, this prior art solution requires work to be carried out on the bottom of the swimming pool to install hinges and hinged elements, these elements being potentially dangerous for the swimmers.

Other prior art solutions include the use of floating bulkheads transversely arranged with respect to a longitudinal direction of the swimming pool. However, known bulkheads are large structures that take up part of the length of the pool (normally, they take up between <NUM> and <NUM> metre) and do not allow individual selection of the lanes to be divided, but always act simultaneously on all lanes of the pool. In some cases, larger swimming pools are built for use with floating bulkheads. Further, bulkheads are very heavy structures that require a crane to install and remove them from swimming pools, e.g. for carrying out maintenance operations.

Therefore, there is a need for a device that can be easily installed and adjusted to create lane divisions/partitions in a swimming pool. Such a device should be easy to use, safe for swimmers, and cost-effective to install and maintain. The invention described in this patent application addresses these needs by providing a novel and inventive solution to the problem of selectively dividing lanes in a swimming pool.

The present invention addresses the problem of providing a solution for dividing at least one lane of a swimming pool into two shorter lanes to overcome the above-described disadvantages of the prior art solutions.

The invention refers to a pool divider device according to claim <NUM> for selectively dividing at least one lane of a swimming pool into two respective shorter lanes, wherein the device comprises a main structure and at least one lane divider device movably connected to the main structure.

The main structure is configured to be transversely arranged with respect to the at least one lane to be divided into two respective shorter lanes, and is further configured (e.g. arranged) to have (i.e. to provide) a separation distance from a water level of the swimming pool.

The at least one lane divider device is connected to the main structure and comprises a dividing panel. The lane divider device is configured to be selectively movable between an extended position, in which the respective dividing panel is arranged perpendicularly inserted into a respective lane of the swimming pool such that said lane is divided into two shorter lanes, and a retracted position, in which the respective dividing panel is retracted (i.e. from the respective lane of the swimming pool) towards the main structure such that a swimmer is allowed to pass below the main structure and the dividing panel. A separation distance between the dividing panel and the water level is configured to allow a swimmer to pass below the main structure while swimming. This distance may be configured to be of at least <NUM>, preferably at least <NUM> and more preferably or at least <NUM> or <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the at least one lane divider device may be configured to be linearly displaceable (i.e. movable) between the extended and the retracted positions (e.g. by being linearly displaceable in a direction perpendicular to the water level, e.g. a vertical direction). In other embodiments, the lane divider device may be configured to be swivelling displaceable between the extend position and the retracted positions (e.g. by being hingedly/articulated connected to the main structure, such that the lane divider device moves angularly with respect to a hinged/articulated connection to the main structure).

In preferred embodiments of the invention, the main structure may be configured as a modular structure comprising a plurality of interconnectable modules (also referred to as main structure modules). Thus, the main structure may be configured as a plurality of main structure modules interconnected to each other, thereby forming the main structure. In a manner broadly compatible with respect to the embodiments described in this specification, when the main structure comprises a plurality of main structure modules, each main structure module may comprise one or more lane divider devices according to the invention.

In preferred embodiments, and also in a manner broadly compatible with respect to the embodiments described in this specification, the main structure may be configured to be movable along a longitudinal direction extending along the at least one lane (i.e. along its length) to be divided in to two shorter lanes, such that, when the main structure is displaced along the longitudinal direction, then the length of the two respective shorter lanes relative to the length of the at least one lane to be divided is adjusted. Accordingly, the longitudinal direction refers to a direction along with the lane to be divided extends, which is normally aligned with a length of the swimming pool, wherein a swimming pool normally extends over a length and a transversal width, the length being normally longer than the width. Thus, the main structure may comprise one or more support means configured to allow a displacement of the main structure (and therefore of the lane divider device) along a direction aligned with the length of the lane to be divided, and may further comprise braking means configured to secure the support means in a particular position along the length of the lane to be divided (wherein the braking means are brakes/blockers/lockers for blocking the position of the support means). The one or more support means may be configured to be manually movable along the longitudinal direction or may comprise one or more means (e.g. automatic means of automated movement) configured for allowing an automatic movement of the support means (i.e. and thereby of the pool divider device) along the longitudinal direction. The support means may be configured as one or more base supports (e.g. lateral supports; e.g. at least one arranged at each side of the swimming pool) configured to be movable along a travel guide of the swimming pool, or as one or more base supports (e.g. at least one arranged at each side of the swimming pool) comprising wheels to be movable along a ground proximal to the swimming pool, or as a suspended structure (e.g. a hanging structure) configured to movable along the length of the at least one lane to be divided into two shorter lanes. Further, in some embodiments, the lane divider device may comprise a combination of the above-described types of support means, including one or more means for automated displacement.

The lane divider device (i.e. any of the at least one lane divider device) may comprise at least one actuator (i.e. a main actuator) configured to cause the lane divider device to move between the extended position and the retracted position. Preferably, the actuator (i.e. the main actuator) is configured as an automatic actuator, i.e. an actuator being configured to be remotely and/or automatically actuated. The at least one actuator may be arranged connected to the main structure and to the respective lane divider device. The at least one actuator may be configured as a mechanical actuator (or as an electro-mechanical actuator), preferably comprising a linear actuator and/or a motor. Further, the at least one actuator may be configured as a hydraulic actuator or a pneumatic actuator (e.g. a hydraulic or a pneumatic linear actuator). Details on possible arrangements for the at least one actuator are described below. The at least one actuator may be arranged connected to the main structure and to the lane divider device.

The lane divider device (i.e. any of the at least one lane divider device) may further comprise a respective support structure configured for connecting the dividing panel to the main structure. The support structure may be monolithic with the respective dividing panel (i.e. the support structure may be configured to be integral with the dividing panel, so that both elements are formed as a single body) or may be rigidly connected to the respective dividing panel (i.e. solidly connected such that the support structure and the dividing panel move together, e.g. between the extended position and the retracted position) and connected (e.g. movably connected) to the main structure such that the lane divider device is allowed to move (e.g. relative to the main structure) between its respective extended position and its respective retracted position. Preferably, said support structure may be further configured such that, when the lane divider device is arranged in its extended position, the dividing panel protrudes from the water level (i.e. from the surface of the water of the swimming pool) by a predetermined distance (e.g. between <NUM> and <NUM>, preferably between <NUM> and <NUM>, more preferably between <NUM> and <NUM>, such as <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM>). Further, the support structure may be configured to provide a separation space between the dividing panel and the main structure. Preferably, said separation space may be configured such that air is allowed to flow through said separation space (e.g. the support structure may comprise one or more air windows or openings) (i.e. the support structure may be configured to minimize the impact of airstreams on the stability of the dividing panel and/or of the pool divider device). The support structure may comprise (or may be made of) a metal (such as aluminium or stainless steel) and/or a non-metallic material, such as a plastic or other synthetic material (e.g. polymeric material, fiberglass, carbon fibre, polyester resin, epoxy resin or polyurethane resin, or a combination thereof).

The support structure of the lane divider device (i.e. of any of the at least one lane divider device) may comprise at least one elongated member extending from the respective dividing panel to the main structure (alternatively or complementarily, the support structure may comprise at least one structural element configured as a plate). An elongated member refers to a structural element (e.g. a bar or row) configured to extend mainly along a length (e.g. mainly longitudinally). In preferred embodiments, the support structure may comprise at least two or at least three elongated members spaced apart from each other such that one or more air windows are formed between the elongated members (i.e. along the separation space between the dividing panel and the main structure). Thus, when the lane divider device is arranged in its extended position, the at least one air window is arranged between the dividing panel, the main structure and the at least two elongated members. More preferably, the support structure further comprises at least one interconnecting member transversely arranged with respect to the elongated members and configured to interconnect to each other at least two of the elongated members. The at least one interconnecting element may be configured to structurally reinforce the elongated members.

In some embodiments, the at least one actuator (i.e. the main actuator) configured to cause the lane divider device to move between the extended position and the retracted position may be arranged connected between the main structure and the lane divider device (e.g. connected to one of the elongated members and/or one of the interconnecting members).

The support structure of the lane divider device may further comprise an auxiliary structural portion extending from a part (e.g. an end portion) of the support structure distally arranged with respect to the dividing panel, wherein said auxiliary structural portion is configured to extend at least partially along a direction being perpendicular or oblique to a geometric plane (the geometric plane not being part of the invention, but an external geometric reference) arranged centrally with respect to a thickness of the dividing panel. Thus, the auxiliary structural portion may comprise a respective end portion arranged at an offset distance from said geometric plane. In preferred embodiments, the auxiliary structural portion may comprise (or may be configured as) at least two structural arms, wherein the end portion of the auxiliary structural portion may comprise (or may be configured as) respective end portions of the at least two structural arms arranged at an offset distance from said geometric plane.

The dividing panel (i.e. of any of the at least one lane divider) may be configured as a solid body, (i.e. a body having a thickness). Alternatively, the dividing panel may comprise two planar plates, wherein each planar plate may be arranged at a respective side of the support structure. Thus, when the lane divider device is arranged in its respective extended position, each planar plate is arranged facing a respective shorter lane. The dividing panel (i.e. the solid body or the planar plates) is configured as a rigid element, preferably configured to be lightweight. The dividing panel may be made of a metal (such as aluminium or stainless steel) or, preferably, of a plastic or other synthetic material (such as a polymeric material, fiberglass, carbon fibre, polyester resin, epoxy resin or polyurethane resin).

The lane divider device may further comprise one or more articulations (e.g. hinged connections) configured to movably connect the lane divider device to the main structure, such that the lane divider device is configured to swivel angularly between its respective extended position and its respective retracted position. Preferably, the one or more articulations of the lane divider device may be arranged at a part of the lane divider device being distally arranged with respect to the dividing panel. In preferred embodiments, the part of the lane divider device configured to be connected to the main structure by means of the one or more articulations is a part (e.g. a respective end portion) of the one or more elongated elements being distally arranged with respect to the dividing panel.

Therefore, in some embodiments, the one or more articulations of the lane divider device that are arranged at a part of the lane divider device being distally arranged with respect to the dividing panel may be arranged at a respective end portion of the at least one elongated member of the support structure, said respective end portion being distally arranged with respect to the dividing panel. Preferably, the support structure may comprise a plurality of elongated members, and the articulations may comprise at least two articulations, such that each articulation is arranged at a respective end portion of an elongated member. Preferably, said at least one elongated member may be configured such that, when the lane divider device is arranged in its extended position, the at least one elongated member is arranged vertically, i.e. being perpendicular to the respective lane of the swimming pool to be divided into two shorter lanes. Therefore, said at least one elongated member being configured to extend along a shortest straight path between the articulation (i.e. between the main structure) and the dividing panel.

Each of the at least one articulation of the lane divider device may comprise a respective spherical bearing configured to allow an oscillating adjustment between the lane divider device and the main structure. The spherical bearings help to absorb mounting tolerances of the pool divider device for ensuring a proper adjustment and movement of the lane divider device relative to the main structure. The spherical bearings have proved to be particularly advantageous when the lane divider device comprises two articulations arranged at a part of the lane divider device being distally arranged with respect to the dividing panel (e.g. arranged at respective end portions of two elongated member of the support structure).

The dividing panel of the lane divider device may be configured to extend transversely (i.e. in a direction being transverse to the dividing panel, which is also a direction being transverse to the at least one lane to be divided into two shorter lanes) between two respective opposing lateral portions of the dividing panel. Each lateral portion may comprise a respective lateral connector configured to be selectively actuated for providing a rigid connection to a respective lateral connector of a dividing panel of an adjacent lane divider device (wherein the adjacent lane divider is a lane divider device according to any embodiments of the invention). The lateral connector arranged at a lateral portion of a dividing panel being adjacent (i.e. the lateral portion) to a wall of the swimming pool may be configured to provide a rigid connection to said wall and/or to the support means of the main structure. Preferably, each lateral connector may further comprise a respective auxiliar connector configured to be connected to a lane rope being external to the pool divider device. The auxiliar connector may be configured as a ring/eye-ring and/or may be arranged in in a position of the lateral connector being centrally arranged between the two adjacent dividing panels being connected.

In some embodiments, the dividing panel may comprise at least two lateral connectors arranged at each opposing lateral portion (e.g. at different heights of the dividing panel, such that one connector is arranged above the water level of the swimming pool and one connector is arranged below the water level of the swimming pool). The lateral connectors improve the stability of the dividing panels when the lane divider device is arranged in its extended position.

Each lateral connector may comprise a respective male and/or a respective female connector. The male connector (e.g. a deployable or articulated bar/rod) may be configured to be selectively activatable to connect with a female connector of an adjacent dividing panel. The lateral connectors may further comprise a respective actuator configured to automatically activate (e.g. connect and/or lock) de lateral connector.

The dividing panel of the lane divider device may further comprise at least one (or at least two) transversal structural elements rigidly connected to the dividing panel and arranged transversely with respect to the dividing panel, preferably extending over a whole transverse extension of the dividing panel (i.e. between the two opposing lateral portions of the dividing panel). Each transversal structural element may be configured to be an integral part of the support structure (i.e. the support structure may comprise said at least one transversal structural element) or may be rigidly connectable to the support structure.

In preferred embodiments, the dividing panel of the lane divider device may be configured such that the at least one transversal structural element extends transversely between the two opposing lateral portions, wherein the lateral connectors are arranged/connected to respective ends of the transversal structural element.

In some embodiments, the pool divider device according to any of the preceding embodiments may further comprise one or more locking means configured to lock (e.g. to block or rigidly engage, i.e. to secure its position) the lane divider device to the main structure in its respective extended position and/or in its respective retracted position.

The one or more locking means may comprise: an extended position locker (i.e. a locker configured to lock the lane divider device in its extended position) and/or a retracted position locker (i.e. a locker configured to lock the lane divider device in its retracted position).

The features described below for the extended position locker and the retracted position locker are broadly compatible with a plurality of configurations of the support structure.

The extended position locker may be configured to selectively lock (i.e. and unlock) the end portion of the auxiliary structural portion of the support structure of the lane divider device (e.g. the respective end portions of the at least two structural arms of the support structure) to the main structure when the lane divider device is its extended position. Preferably, the extended position locker may further comprise at least one respective actuator configured to automatically lock the extended position locker. The at least one actuator may be configured as a mechanical and/or as an electro-mechanical actuator, wherein the at least one actuator is preferably configured as a linear actuator or as a solenoid actuator. The extended position locker may further comprise (or being configured as) one or more locking connectors such as one or more clamps (e.g. mechanical clamps) configured to be controlled/activated by means the at least one respective actuator. It is noted that in some embodiments the locking connectors may be configured as electro-mechanical clamps such that the respective actuator may be an integral part of the clamp. In those embodiments in which there is a plurality (e.g. two) of locking connectors (e.g. clamps), the plurality of clamps may be connected to each other by means of at least one auxiliary connecting element (e.g. by at least one respective connecting rod or bar) such that a single actuator may be activated to actuate (i.e. to lock/unlock) all the clamps simultaneously. Further, the auxiliary connecting element has the technical effect of providing a structural support for increasing the rigidity of the lane divider device when arranged in its extended position, while not increasing a mass of the lane divider device that has to be moved between the extended and the retracted positions. This is because the auxiliary connecting element is connected to the respective actuator of the extended position locker which is, in turn, connected to the main structure, so that the auxiliary connecting element is not displaced together with the support structure of the lane divider device.

The retracted position locker may be configured to selectively lock (i.e. and unlock) the end portion of the auxiliary structural portion of the support structure of the lane divider device (e.g. the respective end portions of the at least two structural arms of the auxiliary structural portion) to the main structure when the lane divider device is its retracted position. Preferably, the retracted position locker may further comprise at least one respective actuator configured to automatically lock the retracted position locker. The at least one actuator of the retracted position locker may be configured as a mechanical or as an electro-mechanical actuator, wherein the actuator of the retracted position locker may be preferably configured as a linear actuator or as a solenoid actuator. Preferably, the extended position locker may be configured as one or more solenoid actuators movable between a locking position and an unlocking position.

In preferred embodiments of the invention, the extended position locker may be configured as a plurality of mechanical clamps connected to each other by means of at least one connecting bar, wherein said at least one bar may be actuated by a single linear actuator to selectively lock and unlock the locker. In the same preferred embodiment, the optional retracted position locker may be configured as one or more solenoid actuators.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the pool divider device may comprise a main structure and a plurality of lane divider devices, wherein each of these lane divider devices may comprise any combination of features (i.e. features related to the lane divider devices) previously described for the lane divider devices.

In those embodiments comprising a main structure and a plurality of lane divider devices, the main structure may preferably be configured as a plurality of main structure modules interconnected to each other. In other words, the main structure may comprise a plurality of main structure modules configured to be connected to each other to form the main structure. In more preferred embodiments, each main structure module may be configured to comprise one or more lane divider devices of the plurality of lane divider devices. Further, said main structure may comprise one or more support means (as previously described) configured as static supports or as supports configured to allow a displacement of the main structure (and therefore of the lane divider device) along a direction aligned with the length of the lane to be divided. Additionally, the main one or more support means may further comprise braking means configured to secure the support means in a particular position along the length of the lane to be divided.

According to some preferred embodiments, the main structure of any of the pool divider devices previously described may be configured as a bridge structure having a walkable surface for allowing a person/pedestrian to walk over the main structure.

The main structure and the one or more lane divider devices may be configured to provide the pool divider device with a rigid structure. In particular, the main structure and the one or more lane divider devices may be configured such that, when one or more swimmers push against one or more of the dividing panels (i.e. the respective lane divider devices <NUM> being arranged in its extended position "A") when turning a swimming direction (i.e. when reversing the swimming direction), the main structure and the one or more lane divider devices provide sufficient rigidity such that the dividing panels remain at its extended position without being subject to any displacement (or being subject to a displacement being within a predetermined tolerance, such as less than <NUM>, preferably less than <NUM>, more preferably less than <NUM>). For this purpose, the main structure may be configured as a tubular structure, e.g. comprising a plurality of triangle structures made of tubes. Further, the extended position of the lane divider device(s) (and therefore of the lane dividing panel(s)) may be additionally reinforced with the one or more locking means according to the description previously provided, in particular with the help of the extended position locker.

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the attached drawings, in which:.

<FIG> depicts a view of a pool divider device <NUM> according to the invention, wherein the pool divider device <NUM> is transversely arranged with respect to a swimming pool <NUM>. The pool divider device <NUM> is configured for selectively dividing at least one lane <NUM> of the swimming pool <NUM> into two respective shorter lanes <NUM>, <NUM>. In particular, the pool divider device <NUM> shown in <FIG> is configured to divide all the lanes of the swimming pool <NUM> into two respective shorter lanes. In <FIG>, a longitudinal direction "X" of the lane <NUM> to be divided is identified, wherein this longitudinal direction in this case is coincident with a longitudinal direction of the swimming pool <NUM>. In the context of the present invention, a transverse or transversal direction refers to a direction being perpendicular to the longitudinal direction "X", such that said transverse or transversal direction is perpendicular to the lanes of the swimming pool <NUM> (i.e. the transverse or transversal direction is arranged perpendicular to the at least one lane to be divided but it is also arranged substantially coplanar with respect to a water surface of the swimming pool <NUM> when the water is at complete rest).

<FIG> shows an enlarged view of the pool divider device <NUM> of <FIG>. The pool divider device <NUM> of <FIG> comprises a main structure <NUM> and a plurality of lane divider devices <NUM> (it should be noted that in other compatible embodiments the pool divider device may comprise at least one lane divider device <NUM> according to any of the configurations described) movably connected to the main structure <NUM>.

The main structure <NUM> is further configured to have (i.e. to provide) a separation distance H (e.g. a height distance) from a water level L of the swimming pool <NUM> (see <FIG> which depicts the configuration of said separation distance and the water level).

Although not visible in <FIG>, the main structure <NUM> of <FIG> may be configured as a modular structure comprising a plurality of interconnectable modules (main structure modules <NUM>, c. <FIG>, which show a more detailed embodiments of a lane divider device <NUM> compatible with <FIG>). Thus, the main structure <NUM> may be configured as a plurality of main structure modules <NUM> interconnected to each other, thereby forming the main structure <NUM>, wherein each of the main structure modules <NUM> may comprise one or more lane divider devices <NUM> according to the invention. However, in other embodiments of the invention compatible with the images depicted in <FIG>, the main structure <NUM> may be formed as a single-body structure (i.e. the main structure <NUM> comprising a single module <NUM> or the main structure <NUM> not being a modular structure).

The at least one lane divider device <NUM> is connected to the main structure <NUM> and comprises a dividing panel <NUM> (see <FIG>). The lane divider device <NUM> is configured to be selectively movable between an extended position "A" (see <FIG>), in which the respective dividing panel <NUM> is arranged perpendicularly inserted into a respective lane <NUM> of the swimming pool <NUM> such that said lane <NUM> is divided into two shorter lanes <NUM>-<NUM>, and a retracted position "B" (see <FIG>), in which the respective dividing panel <NUM> is retracted (i.e. from the respective lane <NUM> of the swimming pool <NUM>) towards the main structure <NUM> such that a swimmer is allowed to pass below the main structure and the dividing panel. A separation distance between the dividing panel <NUM> and the water level L is configured to allow a swimmer to pass below the main structure <NUM> while swimming. This distance may be configured to be of at least <NUM>, preferably at least <NUM> and more preferably or at least <NUM> or <NUM>.

The main structure <NUM> of the pool divider device <NUM> shown in <FIG> (although not visible) may be configured to be displaceable/movable along the longitudinal direction "X". Thus, when the main structure <NUM> is displaced along the longitudinal direction "X", then a respective length of the two respective shorter lanes <NUM>-<NUM> relative to the length of the at least one lane <NUM> to be divided is adjusted (i.e. the sum of the lengths of both shorter lanes <NUM> and <NUM> is always the length of the original lane <NUM>, but the percentage of the length of the original lane <NUM> given to each shorter lane <NUM>-<NUM> may be adjusted).

The main structure <NUM> of <FIG> comprises two respective support means <NUM> (e.g. also referred to as lateral supports <NUM> or base supports <NUM>) for supporting a weight of the pool divider device <NUM> on a floor adjacent to the swimming pool <NUM>. Although, the support means <NUM> shown in <FIG> are schematically represented so that they seem to be configured as static supports, said supports <NUM> may be configured as static support, but alternatively and preferably may be configured as supports <NUM> configured to allow the displacement of the main structure <NUM> (and therefore of the lane divider devices <NUM> and the pool divider device <NUM> itself) along the longitudinal direction "X", as previously described. Thus, the support means <NUM> may be configured as one or more base supports (e.g. lateral supports; e.g. at least one arranged at each side of the swimming pool <NUM>) configured to be movable along a travel guide of the swimming pool <NUM>, or as one or more base supports <NUM> (e.g. at least one arranged at each side of the swimming pool) comprising wheels to be movable along a ground/floor proximal to the swimming pool <NUM>. In some embodiments, the support means <NUM> may comprise braking means configured to secure the support means <NUM> in a particular position along the longitudinal direction "X". In alternative embodiments, the main structure <NUM> may be configured as a suspended structure (e.g. a hanging structure) configured to movable along the longitudinal direction "X".

The one or more support means <NUM> may be configured to be manually movable along the longitudinal direction "X" or may comprise one or more means (e.g. automatic means of automated movement) configured for allowing an automatic movement of the support means <NUM> (i.e. and thereby of the pool divider device <NUM>) along the longitudinal direction "X".

Although not visible in <FIG>, the at least one lane divider device <NUM> is configured to be swivelling displaceable between the extend position "A" and the retracted "B" positions (e.g. by being hingedly/articulated connected to the main structure <NUM>, such that the lane divider device(s) <NUM> moves angularly with respect to a hinged/articulated connection to the main structure <NUM>). However, in other embodiments compatible with <FIG> the lane divider device(s) may be configured to be linearly displaceable between the extended "A" and the retracted "B" positions (e.g. by being linearly displaceable in a direction perpendicular to the surface of water of the swimming pool <NUM>, e.g. a vertical direction).

<FIG> show an optional configuration of the pool divider device <NUM> in which the main structure <NUM> is configured as a bridge structure having a walkable surface for allowing a person/pedestrian to walk over the main structure <NUM>.

The main structure <NUM> and the one or more lane divider devices <NUM> are configured to provide the pool divider device <NUM> with a rigid structure. In particular, the main structure <NUM> and the one or more lane divider devices <NUM> may be configured such that, when one or more swimmers push against one or more of the dividing panels <NUM> (i.e. the respective lane divider devices <NUM> being arranged in its extended position "A") when turning a swimming direction, the main structure <NUM> and the one or more lane divider devices <NUM> provide sufficient rigidity such that the dividing panels <NUM> remain at its extended position "A" without being subject to any displacement (or being subject to a displacement being within a predetermined tolerance, such as less than <NUM>, preferably less than <NUM>, more preferably less than <NUM>). For this purpose, the main structure <NUM> may be configured as a tubular structure, e.g. comprising a plurality of triangle structures made of tubes. Further, for reinforcing the stability of the extended position "A" of the lane divider device (and therefore of the lane dividing panel <NUM>) one or more locking means may be provided as described below.

<FIG> show a detailed view of a portion of a pool divider device <NUM> compatible with the embodiments shown in <FIG> depicts a lane divider device <NUM> (within the dotted line) arranged in its extended position "A" and <FIG> shows the same lane divider device <NUM> arranged in its retracted position "B". The portion of the main structure <NUM> visible in <FIG> is identified as a respective main structure module <NUM> connected therein to a respective lane divider device <NUM>. However, it should be noted that this same portion of the main structure <NUM> referred to with reference sign <NUM> may also represent (or be interpreted as) a portion of a bigger main structure <NUM> (i.e. a main structure <NUM> configured as a single-body structure, i.e. not being a modular structure).

The lane divider device <NUM> of <FIG> comprises an actuator <NUM> (also referred to as main actuator <NUM>) (although a higher number of actuators may be provided) configured to cause the lane divider device <NUM> to move between the extended position "A" and the retracted position "B". Preferably, the actuator <NUM> is configured as an automatic actuator <NUM>. The actuator <NUM> may be configured as a mechanical actuator or as an electro-mechanical actuator. <FIG> shows an actuator comprising (or being configured as) a linear actuator. However, in other embodiments the actuator <NUM> may comprise a linear actuator and/or a motor. Further, the linear actuator <NUM> may be configured as an electro-mechanical actuator or as a hydraulic actuator or a pneumatic actuator. The actuator <NUM> may be further configured to block/retain the lane divider device <NUM> in its extended "A" and/or in its retracted "B" positions. Details on possible arrangements for the at least one actuator <NUM> are described below for <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>. The actuator <NUM> is arranged connected to the main structure <NUM> and to the lane divider device <NUM>.

The lane divider device <NUM> of <FIG> is configured to be swivelling displaceable between the extend position "A" and the retracted "B" positions (e.g. by being hingedly/articulated connected to the main structure <NUM>, such that the lane divider device <NUM> moves angularly with respect to a hinged/articulated connection to the main structure <NUM>). However, in other compatible embodiments the lane divider device(s) may be configured to be linearly displaceable between the extended "A" and the retracted "B" positions (e.g. by being linearly displaceable in a direction perpendicular to the surface of water of the swimming pool <NUM>, e.g. a vertical direction).

<FIG> represents the lane divider device <NUM> of <FIG>. The lane divider device <NUM> comprises a respective support structure <NUM> configured for connecting the dividing panel <NUM> to the main structure <NUM>. The support structure <NUM> is rigidly connected to the respective dividing panel <NUM> (i.e. solidly connected such that the support structure <NUM> and the dividing panel <NUM> move together, e.g. between the extended position "A" and the retracted position "B") and connected (e.g. movable connected) to the main structure <NUM> (not visible in <FIG>) such that the lane divider device <NUM> is allowed to move (e.g. relative to the main structure <NUM>) between its respective extended position "A" and its respective retracted position "B".

Preferably, as represented in <FIG> for a similar embodiment, the support structure <NUM> of <FIG> may be further configured such that, when the lane divider device <NUM> is arranged in its extended position "A", the dividing panel protrudes from the water level L by a predetermined distance (e.g. between <NUM> and <NUM>, preferably between <NUM> and <NUM>, more preferably between <NUM> and <NUM>, such as <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM>).

Further, the support structure <NUM> shown in <FIG> is configured to provide a separation space between the dividing panel <NUM> and the main structure <NUM> (the main structure not being visible in <FIG>) The support structure <NUM> may comprise (or may be made of) a metal (such as aluminium or stainless steel) and/or a non-metallic material, such as a plastic or other synthetic material (e.g. polymeric material, fiberglass, carbon fibre, polyester resin, epoxy resin or polyurethane resin, or a combination thereof).

The support structure <NUM> of <FIG> comprises a plurality of elongated members <NUM> (in particular three) extending (preferably vertically) from the respective dividing panel <NUM> towards the main structure. An elongated member refers to a structural element (e.g. a bar or row) configured to extend mainly along a length (e.g. mainly longitudinally). In other compatible embodiments the number of elongated members <NUM> may be different: one, two, three, four or more. The elongated members <NUM> depicted in <FIG> are spaced apart from each other such that respective air windows <NUM> are formed between the elongated members <NUM> (i.e. across the separation space between the dividing panel <NUM> and the main structure <NUM>). Thus, when the lane divider device <NUM> is arranged in its extended position "A", the air windows <NUM> are arranged between the dividing panel <NUM>, the main structure <NUM> and the elongated members <NUM>.

The support structure <NUM> of <FIG> further comprises optional interconnecting members <NUM> transversely arranged with respect to the elongated members <NUM> and configured to interconnect at least two of the elongated members <NUM> to each other. One of the interconnecting members <NUM> is configured (optional feature) to attach the previously described actuator <NUM> (as seen in <FIG>). In other embodiments, the actuator <NUM> may be connected to another part of the support structure <NUM>, such as to an elongated member <NUM>.

The support structure <NUM> of the lane divider device <NUM> of <FIG> further comprise an auxiliary structural portion <NUM> (also referred to as auxiliar structure <NUM>) extending from a part (e.g. an end portion <NUM>) of the support structure <NUM> distally arranged with respect to the dividing panel <NUM>, wherein said auxiliary structural portion <NUM> is configured to extend along a direction being perpendicular (although in other embodiments may alternatively be configured to extend along a direction being oblique) to a geometric plane (not shown; the geometric plane not being part of the invention, but an external geometric reference) arranged centrally with respect to a thickness of the dividing panel <NUM>. The auxiliary structural portion <NUM> depicted in <FIG> is a particular embodiment comprising a respective end portion <NUM> arranged at an offset distance from said geometric plane. Further, the auxiliary structural portion <NUM> of <FIG> comprises, as an optional feature, two structural arms <NUM> (wherein in other compatible embodiments the auxiliary structural portion <NUM> may comprise at least one or at least two structural arms <NUM>). The structural arms <NUM> are arranged spaced apart to each other, preferably extending from the elongated members <NUM> of the support structure <NUM>. Further, the end portion <NUM> of the auxiliary structural portion is configured as the respective end portions <NUM> of the two structural arms, said respective end portions <NUM> being arranged at an offset distance from said geometric plane.

In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the two structural arms <NUM> are configured to extend perpendicularly to the geometric plane of the dividing panel <NUM>, such that these arms are configured as respective lever arms with respect to the dividing panel <NUM> suitable for providing a torque for locking the dividing panel <NUM> in its extended position "A". Thus, in some embodiments, as in the one depicted in <FIG>, the end portion <NUM> of the auxiliary structural portion <NUM> may comprise a support or bracket <NUM> configured to be selectively locked by a locking means (as the one shown in <FIG> and <FIG> under reference signs <NUM> and <NUM>).

Additionally, the support structure <NUM> of <FIG> further comprises a respective reinforcing element (configured as a bar in <FIG> arranged in an inclined position) connecting each of the structural arms <NUM> of the auxiliary structural portion <NUM> to a respective part of one of the elongated members <NUM>.

The dividing panel <NUM> of the lane divider <NUM> of <FIG> comprises two planar plates <NUM>, wherein each planar plate <NUM> is arranged at a respective side (e.g. at each side of the previously described geometric plane) of the support structure <NUM>. Thus, when the lane divider device <NUM> is arranged in its respective extended position A, each planar plate <NUM> is arranged facing a respective shorter lane <NUM>, <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, the dividing panel <NUM> may be configured as a solid body (i.e. a body having a thickness).

The dividing panel <NUM> (i.e. configured as a solid body or as the planar plates <NUM>) is configured as a rigid element. The dividing panel may be made of a metal (such as aluminium or stainless steel) or, preferably, of a plastic or other synthetic material (such as a polymeric material, fiberglass, carbon fibre, polyester resin, epoxy resin or polyurethane resin).

The lane divider device <NUM> of <FIG> further comprises two articulations <NUM> (e.g. hinged connections; it should be noted that in other embodiments the number of articulations <NUM> may be one or more) configured to movably connect the lane divider device <NUM> to the main structure <NUM> (the main structure <NUM> not being shown in <FIG>), such that the lane divider device <NUM> is configured to swivel angularly between its respective extended position "A" and its respective retracted position "B".

The articulations <NUM> of the lane divider <NUM> device are (optionally and preferably) arranged at a part of the lane divider device <NUM> being distally arranged with respect to the dividing panel <NUM>. In the preferred embodiment shown in <FIG>, the part of the lane divider device <NUM> configured to be connected to the main structure <NUM> by means of the articulations <NUM> is a part of the respective elongated elements <NUM> (of the support structure <NUM>) being distally arranged with respect to the dividing panel <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the articulations <NUM> of the lane divider device <NUM> that are arranged at a part of the lane divider device <NUM> being distally arranged with respect to the dividing panel <NUM> may be arranged at a respective end portion <NUM> of the at least one elongated member <NUM> of the support structure <NUM>, said respective end portion <NUM> being distally arranged with respect to the dividing panel <NUM>. In other compatible embodiments, the support structure <NUM> may comprise a plurality of elongated members <NUM>, and the articulations <NUM> may comprise at least two articulations <NUM>, such that each articulation <NUM> is arranged at a respective end portion <NUM> of an elongated member <NUM>.

The configuration shown in <FIG> represents the optional and preferred embodiment in which the elongated members <NUM> are configured such that, when the lane divider device <NUM> is arranged in its extended position "A", the elongated members <NUM> are arranged vertically, i.e. being perpendicular to the respective lane <NUM> of the swimming pool to be divided into two shorter lanes <NUM>, <NUM> (c.

The dividing panel <NUM> of the lane divider device <NUM> shown in <FIG> is configured to extend transversely (i.e. in a direction being transverse to the dividing panel <NUM>, which is also a direction being transverse to the at least one lane <NUM> to be divided into two shorter lanes <NUM>, <NUM>) between two opposing lateral portions <NUM>, <NUM>. Each lateral portion <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG> comprises a respective (optional) lateral connector <NUM> (only the lateral connector <NUM> of the lateral portion <NUM> is depicted in <FIG>, but there is an additional lateral connector <NUM> at the lateral portion <NUM>) configured to be selectively actuated for providing a rigid connection to a respective lateral connector of a dividing panel of an adjacent lane divider device (wherein the adjacent lane divider is a lane divider device according to any embodiments of the invention) and/or to a wall of the swimming pool <NUM> (e.g. a lateral wall of the swimming pool <NUM> being parallelly arranged with respect to the at least one lane <NUM> to be divided). It some embodiments, the rigid connection to a wall of the swimming pool <NUM> may be replaced by a rigid connection to the support means <NUM> of the main structure <NUM> being arranged proximal to said wall. The lateral connectors <NUM> improve the stability of the dividing panels <NUM> when the lane divider device <NUM> is arranged in its extended position "A".

<FIG> indicates the position of the lateral connectors <NUM>, but does not show the lateral connectors <NUM> being extended/deployed for connecting the shown dividing panel <NUM> to an adjacent dividing panel <NUM> (or to an adjacent wall - e.g. lateral wall - of the swimming pool <NUM>). Thus, although not shown in <FIG>, each lateral connector <NUM> may comprise a respective male and/or a respective female connector. In preferred embodiments, the lateral connector <NUM> of one lateral portion <NUM> may be configured as a deployable/extendable bar/rod or as an articulated bar/rod configured to be connected to the lateral connector <NUM> (e.g. a female connector) of the adjacent lateral portion <NUM> of an adjacent dividing panel <NUM>. The lateral connectors <NUM> may further comprise a respective actuator configured to automatically activate and/or lock de lateral connector <NUM>.

Although is not shown in <FIG>, each lateral connector <NUM> may further comprise a respective auxiliar connector configured to be connected to a lane rope being external to the pool divider device. The auxiliar connector may be configured as a ring/eye-ring and/or may be arranged in in a position of the lateral connector being centrally arranged between the two adjacent dividing panels <NUM> being connected.

In preferred embodiments, and for the purpose of improving the overall rigidity of the pool dividing device <NUM>, the dividing panel <NUM> may comprise at least two connectors <NUM> arranged at each opposing lateral portion <NUM>, <NUM> (e.g. at different heights of the dividing panel <NUM>, such that, per each side, one connector <NUM> is arranged above the water level L of the swimming pool <NUM> and one connector <NUM> is arranged below the water level L of the swimming pool <NUM>).

The dividing panel <NUM> of the lane divider device <NUM> of <FIG> further comprises a transversal structural element <NUM> (which is an optional feature of the invention) rigidly connected to the dividing panel <NUM> and arranged transversely with respect to the dividing panel <NUM>. The transversal structural element <NUM> is configured to extend over a whole transverse extension of the dividing panel <NUM> (i.e. between the two opposing lateral portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the dividing panel <NUM>). It should be noted that <FIG> represents a preferred embodiment, but in other compatible embodiments, the number of transversal elements <NUM> may be different (e.g. at least one or at least two). Further, each transversal element <NUM> according to said compatible embodiments may be configured to extend along at least a part of the transverse extension of the respective dividing panel <NUM>.

Each transversal structural element <NUM> may be configured to be an integral part of the support structure <NUM> (i.e. the support structure <NUM> may comprise said at least one transversal structural element <NUM>, as is the case of <FIG>) or may be rigidly connectable/connected to the support structure <NUM>.

In the preferred embodiment shown in <FIG>, the dividing panel <NUM> of the lane divider device <NUM> is configured such that the (at least one) transversal structural element <NUM> extends transversely between the two opposing lateral portions <NUM>, <NUM>, wherein the lateral connectors <NUM> are arranged at respective ends of the transversal structural element <NUM> (this arrangement of the lateral connectors <NUM> representing an optional feature of the invention).

<FIG> depicts a front view of a pool divider device <NUM> according to the invention, and compatible with the embodiments shown in the preceding figures. As previously described for <FIG>, the main structure <NUM> of <FIG> is also configured to have a separation distance H (e.g. a height distance) from a water level L of the swimming pool <NUM>. Each of the dividing panels <NUM> may be configured according to any of the embodiments for the dividing panels <NUM> described in the preceding figures. Further, the main structure <NUM> may be configured as a modular structure comprising a plurality of interconnectable main structure modules <NUM> (as the ones depicted in <FIG>). Thus, the main structure <NUM> may be configured as a plurality of main structure modules <NUM> interconnected to each other, thereby forming the main structure <NUM>, wherein the lane divider devices <NUM> may be connected to a respective main structure module <NUM> (e.g. by each lane divider device being connected to a respective main structure module <NUM>, or by providing groups of lane dividers devices <NUM> - e.g. at least two lane dividers devices <NUM> - connected to each main structure module <NUM>). However, in alternative embodiments, the main structure <NUM> may be formed as a single-body structure (i.e. the main structure <NUM> comprising a single module <NUM> or the main structure <NUM> not being a modular structure), wherein the plurality of lane divider devices <NUM> may be connected to the main structure <NUM> (or to the single module <NUM> of the main structure).

<FIG> further shows that each dividing panel <NUM> comprises respective lateral connectors <NUM> (optional feature). The lateral connectors <NUM> depicted in the figure are configured to connect each dividing panel <NUM> to a respective adjacent dividing panel <NUM> or to a wall of the swimming pool <NUM> (c. dividing panel <NUM> arranged at the left side of the front view). The lateral connector <NUM> arranged at a lateral portion <NUM> of the dividing panel <NUM> being adjacent (i.e. the lateral portion <NUM>) to a wall of the swimming pool <NUM> may be configured to provide a rigid connection to said wall and/or to the support means <NUM> of the main structure <NUM>.

<FIG> further shows the position of one of the support means <NUM> relative to the swimming pool <NUM>. The support means <NUM> shown in <FIG> is schematically represented. Although not specifically visible in <FIG>, the support means <NUM> may be configured as static supports or as supports configured to allow the displacement of the main structure <NUM> (and therefore of the lane divider devices <NUM> and the pool divider device <NUM> itself) along the longitudinal direction "X" of the lane <NUM> to be divided (c.

<FIG> shows a single support means <NUM>, however it should be noted that a corresponding additional support means <NUM> may be arranged at each side of the swimming pool <NUM>, wherein these two support means <NUM> may be configured equivalently to be static or to be movable along a travel guide of the swimming pool <NUM> (i.e. the travel guide being arranged along, or parallel to, the longitudinal direction "X" of the lane <NUM> to be divided). When the one or more support means <NUM> are configured to be movable, they may comprise wheels to be movable along a ground/floor proximal to the swimming pool <NUM>. In some embodiments, the support means <NUM> may comprise braking means configured to secure the support means <NUM> in a particular position along the longitudinal direction "X". In alternative embodiments, the main structure <NUM> may be configured as a suspended structure (e.g. a hanging structure) configured to movable along the longitudinal direction "X".

The one or more support means <NUM> of <FIG> may be configured to be manually movable along the longitudinal direction "X" or may comprise one or more means (e.g. automatic means of automated movement) configured for allowing an automatic movement of the support means <NUM> (i.e. and thereby of the pool divider device <NUM>) along the longitudinal direction "X" of the lane <NUM> to be divided into two shorter lanes <NUM>, <NUM>.

<FIG> depict respective detailed views of a pool divider device <NUM> (e.g. a pool divider device being compatible with any of the preceding embodiments) in which a lane divider device <NUM> is arranged in its extended position "A". In particular, the embodiment of <FIG> corresponds to those previously shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, wherein the lane divider device <NUM> is movable connected to the main structure <NUM> by means of two respective articulations <NUM>. <FIG> shows a lateral view of part of the pool divider device <NUM> and <FIG> shows detailed view of some of features specifically of the lane divider device <NUM> (wherein the main structure <NUM> has been hidden).

The lane divider device <NUM> of <FIG> comprises an actuator <NUM> (i.e. a main actuator <NUM>) configured to cause the lane divider device <NUM> to move between the extended position "A" (shown in <FIG>) and the retracted position "B" (shown in <FIG>). The actuator <NUM> is configured as an automatic actuator <NUM> being a mechanical actuator (or as an electro-mechanical actuator). In particular, the actuator <NUM> shown in the figures is configured as a linear actuator <NUM> that can be controllably actuated to extend and retract partially or totally, therefore causing the lane divider device <NUM> to move accordingly between its two positions. It should be noted, however, that in other embodiments, the actuator <NUM> may be configured to meet any of the previously described configurations for the actuator <NUM>. The linear actuator <NUM> may be configured as an electro-mechanical actuator or as a hydraulic actuator or a pneumatic actuator. The actuator <NUM> may be further (optionally) configured to block/retain the lane divider device <NUM> in its extended "A" and/or in its retracted "B" positions (e.g. by actively providing a force (e.g. a continuous force) between the main structure <NUM> and the lane divider device <NUM> when the latest is arranged one of its positions, namely the extended "A" and/or the retracted "B" position).

The pool divider device <NUM> shown in <FIG> comprises one or more locking means <NUM>, <NUM> (which is an optional feature of the embodiments) configured to lock (e.g. to lock/block or rigidly engage, i.e. to secure its position) the lane divider device <NUM> to the main structure <NUM> in its respective extended position "A" and/or in its respective retracted position "B".

The one or more locking means <NUM>, <NUM> may comprise: an extended position locker <NUM> (i.e. a locker configured to lock the lane divider device <NUM> in its extended position "A") and/or a retracted position locker <NUM> (i.e. a locker configured to lock the lane divider <NUM> device in its retracted position "B"). The particular configuration represented in <FIG> comprises both types of lockers <NUM>, <NUM>. It should be noted that, although the extended position locker <NUM> and the retracted position locker <NUM> are shown in the figures in combination with specific configurations for the support structure <NUM> (specially for the auxiliary structural portion <NUM>), these lockers are compatible with other geometric configurations of the support structure <NUM>.

The extended position locker <NUM> (or locker for the extended position "A") visible in <FIG> is configured to selectively lock (i.e. and unlock) the end portion <NUM> of the auxiliary structural portion <NUM> of the support structure <NUM> of the lane divider device <NUM> (e.g. the respective end portions <NUM> of the at least two structural arms <NUM> of the support structure <NUM>) to the main structure <NUM> when the lane divider device <NUM> is its extended position "A". The combination of an extended position locker <NUM>, with an actuator <NUM> (i.e. the main actuator <NUM> causing the displacement of the lane dividing device <NUM>) and the articulation <NUM> provides three different connections areas between the lane divider device <NUM> and the main structure <NUM>, such that the stability of lane divider device <NUM> when arranged it is extended position "A" is highly reinforced as a result of this combination.

The configuration shown for the extended position locker <NUM> comprises (at least) one respective actuator <NUM> configured to automatically lock the extended position locker <NUM>. The at least one actuator <NUM> may be configured as a mechanical and/or as an electro-mechanical actuator, wherein the at least one actuator <NUM> is preferably configured as a linear actuator (as shown in <FIG>. In other embodiments, the linear actuator may be replaced or complemented by a solenoid actuator, however the linear actuator is a preferred solution since it may configured to provide a continuous force (e.g. a traction force) lengthwise its body between the main structure <NUM> and the rest of the lane divider device <NUM> (e.g. the support structure <NUM>), thereby minimising the displacement of the respective dividing panel <NUM> when a swimmer turns his swimming direction by pushing with his feet towards said dividing panel <NUM>.

The extended position locker <NUM> shown in <FIG> further comprises two locking connectors <NUM> which are optionally configured as respective clamps <NUM> (e.g. mechanical clamps) configured to be controlled/activated by means of the at least one actuator <NUM>. In alternative embodiments, the locking connector <NUM> may be configured as an electro-mechanical clamp having an electro-mechanical actuator integrated (and therefore not requiring the optional configuration for the actuator <NUM> shown in <FIG>). It is noted that in <FIG> the main structure <NUM> has been removed on behalf of comprehensibility.

The clamps <NUM> shown in <FIG> are configured as mechanical clamps configured to clamp the end portion <NUM> of end portion <NUM> of the auxiliary structural portion <NUM> of the support structure <NUM> of the lane divider device <NUM>. More particularly, the clamps <NUM> are configured to clamp the respective end portions <NUM> (e.g. the support or bracket <NUM> thereto) of the respective end portions <NUM> of the at least two structural arms <NUM> of the auxiliary structural portion <NUM> the support structure <NUM>.

In the preferred embodiment shown in more detail in <FIG>, the extended position locker <NUM> comprises two locking connectors <NUM> that are interconnected to each other such that a single respective actuator <NUM> is configured to actuate (i.e. to lock/unlock) all the locking connectors <NUM> (e.g. the clamps <NUM>) simultaneously. In this embodiment, the extended position locker <NUM> comprises at least one auxiliary connecting element <NUM> (e.g. at least one auxiliary connecting rod/bar <NUM>) configured to interconnect the two locking connectors <NUM> to each other such that they can be actuated simultaneously. The auxiliary connecting element <NUM> is connected to each locking connector <NUM> (e.g. to each clamp <NUM>) and to the respective actuator <NUM> so that is not allowed to swivel together with the support structure <NUM> of the lane divider device <NUM> when moving between the extended "A" and the retracted "B" positions.

It should be noted that the actuator <NUM> (i.e. the main actuator <NUM> of the lane divider device <NUM>, which is configured to cause the lane divider device to move between the extended "A" and the retracted "B" positions) may be configured to actively provide a force (e.g. a continuous force) between the main structure <NUM> and the lane divider device <NUM> to further improve the locking effect provided by the extended position locker <NUM>.

<FIG> provide a detailed view (a cutaway section view of a front part of the articulation <NUM>, wherein the vertical cutting plane is arranged coincident with respect to a central axis of the spherical bearing <NUM>) of an articulation <NUM> compatible with the articulations of any of the embodiments previously described. In particular, <FIG> shows a front view of the articulation <NUM> that is identified in <FIG> with the reference sign <NUM> (i.e. the one that is arranged at the right side of <FIG>).

The articulation <NUM> shown in <FIG> comprises a respective spherical bearing <NUM> configured to allow an oscillating adjustment between the lane divider device <NUM> (i.e. between the support structure <NUM> of the lane divider device <NUM>) and the main structure <NUM>. The spherical bearing <NUM> is mounted around a pin/rod <NUM> defining an axis of rotation. Thus, the spherical bearing <NUM> helps to absorb mounting tolerances of the pool divider device <NUM> for ensuring a proper adjustment and movement of the lane divider device <NUM> relative to the main structure <NUM>. The spherical bearings <NUM> have proved to be particularly advantageous when the lane divider device <NUM> comprises two articulations <NUM> arranged at a part of the lane divider device <NUM> being distally arranged with respect to the dividing panel <NUM> (e.g. arranged at respective end portions <NUM> of two elongated member <NUM> of the support structure <NUM>). The effect of the spherical bearing <NUM> is even further enhanced when the lane divider device <NUM> further comprises an extended position locker <NUM>, since the spherical bearing <NUM> ensures a tight tolerance between the extended position locker <NUM> (e.g. the locking connectors <NUM>, such as clamps) and the auxiliary structural portion <NUM> (e.g. the end portions <NUM> or the bracket <NUM> arranged thereto), thereby reducing undesired movements of the dividing panel <NUM> when a swimmer pushes against it (e.g. when a swimmer reverse his/her swimming direction pushing against the dividing panel <NUM>). Thus, this configuration increases the stability of the dividing panel <NUM> when the lane divider device is arranged in its extended position "A".

<FIG> is a view of a front part of a pool divider device <NUM> comprising two retracted position lockers <NUM> (although in some embodiments the pool divider device <NUM> may be configured to comprise at least one retracted position locker <NUM>), while <FIG> shows a detailed view of one of the retracted position lockers <NUM>.

In the preferred embodiment shown in <FIG>, the pool divider device <NUM> depicted comprises a retracted position locker <NUM>, which is an optional feature of the lane divider device <NUM>. The retracted position locker (or locker for the retracted position "B") is configured to selectively lock (i.e. and unlock) the end portion <NUM> of the auxiliary structural portion <NUM> of the support structure <NUM> of the lane divider device <NUM> (e.g. the respective end portions <NUM> of the at least two structural arms <NUM> of the support structure <NUM>) to the main structure <NUM> when the lane divider device <NUM> is in its retracted position "B". In <FIG> the retracted position locker <NUM> is configured to lock the support or bracket <NUM> (e.g. by providing a connecting hole in said bracket <NUM>), although this embodiment is compatible with other configurations.

Each retracted position locker <NUM> further comprises a respective actuator <NUM> configured to automatically lock and/or unlock the retracted position locker <NUM> when the lane divider device <NUM> is arranged in its retracted position "B". The actuator <NUM> may be configured as a mechanical or as an electro-mechanical actuator, wherein the actuator is preferably configured as a linear actuator or as a solenoid actuator. In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the extended position locker <NUM> is configured as (or comprises) a solenoid actuator <NUM> configured to selectively lock the lane divider device <NUM>.

According to some embodiments, the pool divider device <NUM> may be configured such that, when the actuator <NUM> (e.g. a main actuator <NUM>) that causes the displacement of the lane divider device <NUM> between its extended position "A" and its retracted position "B" is configured as a linear actuator, then said actuator <NUM> may replace the function of the retracted position locker <NUM>.

<FIG> show respective detailed views of the pool divider device <NUM> of <FIG> in which the lane divider device <NUM> is arranged in its retracted position "B". <FIG> depict a configuration in which the retracted position locker <NUM> is configured to be connected to the optional bracket <NUM> of the end portion <NUM> of the auxiliary structural portion <NUM> of the support structure <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A pool divider device (<NUM>) for selectively dividing at least one lane (<NUM>) of a swimming pool (<NUM>) into two respective shorter lanes (<NUM>, <NUM>), the device (<NUM>) comprising:
a main structure (<NUM>) configured to be transversely arranged with respect to the at least one lane (<NUM>) to be divided into two respective shorter lanes (<NUM>, <NUM>), wherein the main structure (<NUM>) is further configured to have a separation distance (H) from a water level (L) of the swimming pool (<NUM>) configured to allow a swimmer to pass below the main structure (<NUM>); wherein preferably the main structure (<NUM>) is configured as a plurality of main structure modules (<NUM>) interconnected to each other; and
at least one lane divider device (<NUM>) connected to the main structure (<NUM>) characterized in that the at least one lane divider device (<NUM>) comprises a dividing panel (<NUM>), the lane divider device (<NUM>) being configured to be selectively movable between an extended position (A), in which the respective dividing panel (<NUM>) is arranged perpendicularly inserted into a respective lane (<NUM>) of the swimming pool (<NUM>) such that said lane (<NUM>) is divided into two shorter lanes (<NUM>, <NUM>), and a retracted position (B), in which the respective dividing panel (<NUM>) is retracted from the respective lane (<NUM>) of the swimming pool (<NUM>) towards the main structure (<NUM>) such that a swimmer is allowed to pass below the main structure (<NUM>) and the dividing panel (<NUM>);
wherein preferably the main structure (<NUM>) is configured to be movable along a longitudinal direction (X) extending along the at least one lane (<NUM>) to be divided, such that when the main structure (<NUM>) is displaced along the longitudinal direction (X), then the length of the two respective shorter lanes (<NUM>, <NUM>) relative to the length of the at least one lane (<NUM>) to be divided is adjusted.