Directional control of an automatic pool cleaner
A direction control means for apparatuses for cleaning submerged surfaces in the form of an elbow joint with swivel connections at each end. The connections may include anti-friction surfaces.
1. A directional control means for submerged surface suction cleaning apparatus comprising:
an elbow joint terminating in an inlet end and an outlet end, the inlet and outlet ends being inclined relative to each other and defining a peripheral groove adjacent the ends;
a first extension comprising a cuff fitted over the inlet end of the elbow joint, the cuff comprising a peripheral rib configured to engage the peripheral groove adjacent the end of the inlet end in a snap fit, so as to allow the first extension to swivel relative to the elbow joint, the first extension terminating in a protruding socket to engage an outlet of a cleaning apparatus; and
a second extension comprising a cuff fitted over the outlet end of the elbow joint, the second extension comprising a peripheral rib configured to engage the peripheral groove adjacent the end of the outlet end in a snap fit, so as to allow the second extension to swivel relative to the elbow joint, the second extension terminating in a protruding spigot for insertion into a suction hose.
2. A directional control means as claimed in claim 1 characterised in that the inlet end and the outlet end are inclined to each other at between 135° and 165°.
3. A directional control means as claimed in claim 2 characterised in that the inlet end and the outlet end are inclined to each other at 150°.
4. A directional control means as claimed in claim 1 characterised in that the peripheral rib and the peripheral groove are formed with anti-friction surfaces.