US20080047056A1 - Polymeric coated rails and method - Google Patents
Polymeric coated rails and method Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20080047056A1 US20080047056A1 US11/829,834 US82983407A US2008047056A1 US 20080047056 A1 US20080047056 A1 US 20080047056A1 US 82983407 A US82983407 A US 82983407A US 2008047056 A1 US2008047056 A1 US 2008047056A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- rail
- coating
- swimming pool
- inch
- polymeric
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 9
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 44
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 44
- 230000009182 swimming Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 21
- 229920000131 polyvinylidene Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000000049 pigment Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920001187 thermosetting polymer Polymers 0.000 claims 3
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims 2
- 229920001169 thermoplastic Polymers 0.000 claims 2
- 239000004416 thermosoftening plastic Substances 0.000 claims 2
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 239000012815 thermoplastic material Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 230000002708 enhancing effect Effects 0.000 abstract 1
- 238000002955 isolation Methods 0.000 abstract 1
- 238000007598 dipping method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000843 powder Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000010963 304 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910000589 SAE 304 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007797 corrosion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005260 corrosion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000006378 damage Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003670 easy-to-clean Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000002615 epidermis Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000009477 glass transition Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008520 organization Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000035939 shock Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000003491 skin Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 238000005507 spraying Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
- E04H4/00—Swimming or splash baths or pools
- E04H4/14—Parts, details or accessories not otherwise provided for
- E04H4/144—Means for facilitating access, e.g. step units or slides
Definitions
- This invention relates to railing and more particularly to swimming pool railings that are advantageously coated.
- Railings such as swimming pool rails, are typically made of metal, such as stainless steel, to provide durability, long life and ease of maintenance.
- metal railings can be slick when wet, reducing the ability of a user to grip the rail and prevent falling. Further, in hot weather, the metal railings can become quite hot to the touch. Still further, over time, the elements (not to mention the pool water) can degrade the metal railing.
- swimming pool rails are coated with a polymeric coating to provide advantages over the prior art.
- an object of the present invention to provide an improved swimming pool rail having a coating providing a better grip against skin.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic cross sectional view of a coated rail in accordance with the invention
- FIG. 2 is a perspective schematic view of a pool rail section in accordance with the invention.
- FIG. 3 is a representative view of an example rail installed at a swimming pool.
- FIG. 4 is a partial cut-away view of the coated rail and end cap therefor.
- a rail such as a swimming pool rail
- a polymeric coating to provide better gripping and other qualities.
- a schematic cross section of a pool rail 10 is provided with at least an outer coating 12 .
- Coating 12 is preferably a polyvinylidene copolymer.
- the pool rail 10 is suitably a cylindrical shape and typically hollow. Note that the thicknesses of the coating and rail relative to one another and the diameter of the rail are not to scale.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective schematic view of a pool rail section in accordance with the invention, illustrating the relative positions of the inner rail 10 and outer coating 12 .
- FIG. 3 illustrates placement of a coated rail 14 being of a particular configuration adapted for use at the side of a pool.
- the pool 18 may include a deck portion 16 , and the rail may be mounted to the deck and/or in the pool.
- FIG. 4 is a partial cut-away view of the coated rail 10 with coating 12 , showing a cut away portion of coating.
- An end cap 20 may suitably be placed in the ends of the rail to provide a fully encapsulated rail (when, for example, the interior of the rail is substantially free of coating 12 ).
- the coating may suitably be employed on the outside of the rail only, to minimize cost, the coating extending only slightly into the interior of the rail ends.
- End cap 20 has an insert portion of diameter to fit within the interior opening of the rail end, providing a sealing to the rail end for a fully encapsulated railing, considering the coating and the end caps (presuming 2 rail ends).
- the coating enhances wet traction by increasing the coefficient of friction between the surface of the rail and the epidermis of the person grasping the rail.
- the rail Since the rail is of metal, it is electrically conductive. Accordingly, employing the coating encapsulates the conductive surface of the rail, and since the preferred coating is non-conductive, the use of the coating prevents the completion of an electrical circuit in the event of some electrical problem, reducing the likelihood of shock. This insulative property also removes the need to bond a conductive substrate to the rail, as is normally required with metal rails, for safety grounding.
- the coating seals the metal surface of the rail from the environment and slows the effects that degrade the prior art rails.
- the coating suitably has a hardness between shore A 20 and Shore D 90.
- the Glass Transition temperature where the polymer becomes amorphous is between ⁇ 100° C. and 125° C.
- the coating is applied to the exterior of the rail, and the suitable use is as a hand rail.
- the heat transfer rate of the coated rail is substantially lower than that of bare metal surfaces, resulting in a more pleasant feel that is cool to the touch.
- the coating may be pigmented to enable color variations according to the application or user's taste.
- the thickness of the coating can be varied as desired, but an exemplary thickness is between 0.0005 and 0.125 inch.
- the diameter and thickness of the wall of the metal rail portion can vary depending on the application and user requirements. A typical outer diameter is 1.9 inches. Wall thicknesses typically used are 0.065, 0.109 or 0.145 inch.
- the coated rail in accordance with the invention provides a surface that is softer than a powder coated or uncoated metal rail.
- the coating may be applied by dipping the railing into the coating, or by other suitable application method such as spraying or brush/roller application. While the illustrated embodiment shows the coating on the outside of the rail only, in the case of dipping the rails to coat, some configurations may also thereby be coated on the interior of the rail.
- an improved rail for use in swimming pools for example.
- the rail provides a soft, cool to the touch rail that has better gripping properties than a metal or powder coated metal rail, reducing slipping and thereby improving safety by lessening the chance of slipping injuries.
- the ability to pigment the coating adds an ability to customize the color to uses or design themes or user's preferences.
- the rail thereby provided eliminates corrosion in extreme pool environments, reduces heat conduction via the rail in high temperatures, and is easy to clean with off the shelf cleaning products. The rail gives better traction when wet as compared to a standard rail.
Abstract
A rail for a swimming pool or the like is provided with an exterior polymeric coating over the metal rail, enhancing wet traction, providing electrical isolation, and coolness to the touch feel.
Description
- This invention relates to railing and more particularly to swimming pool railings that are advantageously coated.
- Railings, such as swimming pool rails, are typically made of metal, such as stainless steel, to provide durability, long life and ease of maintenance. However, metal railings can be slick when wet, reducing the ability of a user to grip the rail and prevent falling. Further, in hot weather, the metal railings can become quite hot to the touch. Still further, over time, the elements (not to mention the pool water) can degrade the metal railing.
- In accordance with the invention, swimming pool rails are coated with a polymeric coating to provide advantages over the prior art.
- Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved swimming pool rail having a coating providing a better grip against skin.
- It is a further object of the present invention to provide an improved coated railing that feels “cool” to the touch.
- It is yet another object of the present invention to provide an improved pool rail with better gripping properties.
- The subject matter of the present invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of this specification. However, both the organization and method of operation, together with further advantages and objects thereof, may best be understood by reference to the following description taken in connection with accompanying drawings wherein like reference characters refer to like elements.
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic cross sectional view of a coated rail in accordance with the invention; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective schematic view of a pool rail section in accordance with the invention; -
FIG. 3 is a representative view of an example rail installed at a swimming pool; and -
FIG. 4 is a partial cut-away view of the coated rail and end cap therefor. - According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a rail, such as a swimming pool rail, is coated with a polymeric coating to provide better gripping and other qualities.
- Referring to
FIG. 1 , a schematic cross section of apool rail 10, suitably made of metal such as type 304 stainless steel, is provided with at least anouter coating 12.Coating 12 is preferably a polyvinylidene copolymer. Thepool rail 10 is suitably a cylindrical shape and typically hollow. Note that the thicknesses of the coating and rail relative to one another and the diameter of the rail are not to scale. -
FIG. 2 is a perspective schematic view of a pool rail section in accordance with the invention, illustrating the relative positions of theinner rail 10 andouter coating 12. -
FIG. 3 illustrates placement of a coatedrail 14 being of a particular configuration adapted for use at the side of a pool. Thepool 18 may include adeck portion 16, and the rail may be mounted to the deck and/or in the pool. -
FIG. 4 is a partial cut-away view of the coatedrail 10 withcoating 12, showing a cut away portion of coating. Anend cap 20 may suitably be placed in the ends of the rail to provide a fully encapsulated rail (when, for example, the interior of the rail is substantially free of coating 12). In a particular embodiment, the coating may suitably be employed on the outside of the rail only, to minimize cost, the coating extending only slightly into the interior of the rail ends.End cap 20 has an insert portion of diameter to fit within the interior opening of the rail end, providing a sealing to the rail end for a fully encapsulated railing, considering the coating and the end caps (presuming 2 rail ends). - The coating enhances wet traction by increasing the coefficient of friction between the surface of the rail and the epidermis of the person grasping the rail.
- Since the rail is of metal, it is electrically conductive. Accordingly, employing the coating encapsulates the conductive surface of the rail, and since the preferred coating is non-conductive, the use of the coating prevents the completion of an electrical circuit in the event of some electrical problem, reducing the likelihood of shock. This insulative property also removes the need to bond a conductive substrate to the rail, as is normally required with metal rails, for safety grounding.
- The coating seals the metal surface of the rail from the environment and slows the effects that degrade the prior art rails.
- The coating suitably has a hardness between shore A 20 and Shore D 90. The Glass Transition temperature where the polymer becomes amorphous is between −100° C. and 125° C.
- As noted above, the coating is applied to the exterior of the rail, and the suitable use is as a hand rail. The heat transfer rate of the coated rail is substantially lower than that of bare metal surfaces, resulting in a more pleasant feel that is cool to the touch.
- The coating may be pigmented to enable color variations according to the application or user's taste.
- The thickness of the coating can be varied as desired, but an exemplary thickness is between 0.0005 and 0.125 inch. The diameter and thickness of the wall of the metal rail portion can vary depending on the application and user requirements. A typical outer diameter is 1.9 inches. Wall thicknesses typically used are 0.065, 0.109 or 0.145 inch.
- The coated rail in accordance with the invention provides a surface that is softer than a powder coated or uncoated metal rail.
- The coating may be applied by dipping the railing into the coating, or by other suitable application method such as spraying or brush/roller application. While the illustrated embodiment shows the coating on the outside of the rail only, in the case of dipping the rails to coat, some configurations may also thereby be coated on the interior of the rail.
- Therefore, in accordance with the invention, an improved rail for use in swimming pools, for example, is provided. The rail provides a soft, cool to the touch rail that has better gripping properties than a metal or powder coated metal rail, reducing slipping and thereby improving safety by lessening the chance of slipping injuries. The ability to pigment the coating adds an ability to customize the color to uses or design themes or user's preferences. The rail thereby provided eliminates corrosion in extreme pool environments, reduces heat conduction via the rail in high temperatures, and is easy to clean with off the shelf cleaning products. The rail gives better traction when wet as compared to a standard rail.
- While a preferred embodiment of the present invention has been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many changes and modifications may be made without departing from the invention in its broader aspects. The appended claims are therefore intended to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.
Claims (19)
1. A method of providing a railing, comprising:
providing a rail portion having at least a partial composition of metal; and
coating at least exterior portions of the rail portion with a polymeric thermosetting or thermoplastic material.
2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said coating is provided to substantially be at least 0.0005 inch thickness.
3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said coating is provided to substantially between 0.0005 inch and 0.125 inch thickness.
4. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising providing said coating with a pigment to give a desire color to the coating.
5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said rail portion comprises stainless steel.
6. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said coating comprises a polyvinylidene copolymer.
7. A swimming pool rail, comprising:
a metal core rail portion; and
a polymeric exterior coating provided on an exterior of said metal core rail portion.
8. The swimming pool rail according to claim 7 , wherein said polymeric exterior coating comprises a thermoplastic or thermosetting material.
9. The swimming pool rail according to claim 8 , wherein said polymeric exterior coating has a thickness of at least 0.0005 inch.
10. The swimming pool rail according to claim 8 , wherein said polymeric exterior coating has a thickness of between 0.0005 inch and 0.125 inch.
11. The swimming pool rail according to claim 7 , wherein said polymeric exterior coating comprises a polyvinylidene copolymer.
12. The swimming pool rail according to claim 10 , wherein said polymeric exterior coating has a thickness of at least 0.0005 inch.
13. The swimming pool rail according to claim 7 , wherein said metal core rail portion comprises stainless steel.
14. A swimming pool, comprising:
a water containing portion and a deck portion adjacent at least a portion of the water containing portion; and
a swimming pool rail, comprising:
a metal core rail portion; and
a polymeric exterior coating provided on an exterior of said metal core rail portion.
15. The swimming pool according to claim 14 , wherein said polymeric exterior coating comprises a thermoplastic or thermosetting material.
16. The swimming pool according to claim 15 , wherein said polymeric exterior coating has a thickness of at least 0.0005 inch.
17. The swimming pool according to claim 15 , wherein said polymeric exterior coating has a thickness of between 0.0005 inch and 0.125 inch.
18. The swimming pool according to claim 14 , wherein said polymeric exterior coating comprises a polyvinylidene copolymer.
19. The swimming pool according to claim 14 , wherein said metal core rail portion comprises stainless steel.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/829,834 US20080047056A1 (en) | 2006-07-27 | 2007-07-27 | Polymeric coated rails and method |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US82058606P | 2006-07-27 | 2006-07-27 | |
US11/829,834 US20080047056A1 (en) | 2006-07-27 | 2007-07-27 | Polymeric coated rails and method |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20080047056A1 true US20080047056A1 (en) | 2008-02-28 |
Family
ID=39111967
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/829,834 Abandoned US20080047056A1 (en) | 2006-07-27 | 2007-07-27 | Polymeric coated rails and method |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20080047056A1 (en) |
Citations (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3065820A (en) * | 1961-04-25 | 1962-11-27 | Swimquip Inc | Swimming pool grab rail structure |
US3494596A (en) * | 1968-10-29 | 1970-02-10 | Marine Swimming Pool Equipment | Swimming pool grab rail with guard panel |
US4805898A (en) * | 1987-09-15 | 1989-02-21 | Jacober Jeffrey M | Recreational slide system and components thereof |
US6030108A (en) * | 1992-08-07 | 2000-02-29 | Bridgestone Corporation | Waterproof lighting apparatus |
US7758765B2 (en) * | 2004-04-01 | 2010-07-20 | Sattler Ag | Coating agent for sun protection articles |
US7887660B2 (en) * | 2004-10-22 | 2011-02-15 | Dow Global Technologies Inc. | Composite pipes and method making same |
-
2007
- 2007-07-27 US US11/829,834 patent/US20080047056A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3065820A (en) * | 1961-04-25 | 1962-11-27 | Swimquip Inc | Swimming pool grab rail structure |
US3494596A (en) * | 1968-10-29 | 1970-02-10 | Marine Swimming Pool Equipment | Swimming pool grab rail with guard panel |
US4805898A (en) * | 1987-09-15 | 1989-02-21 | Jacober Jeffrey M | Recreational slide system and components thereof |
US6030108A (en) * | 1992-08-07 | 2000-02-29 | Bridgestone Corporation | Waterproof lighting apparatus |
US7758765B2 (en) * | 2004-04-01 | 2010-07-20 | Sattler Ag | Coating agent for sun protection articles |
US7887660B2 (en) * | 2004-10-22 | 2011-02-15 | Dow Global Technologies Inc. | Composite pipes and method making same |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: S. R. SMITH LLC, OREGON Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:BONANDER, JAMES;REEL/FRAME:020113/0958 Effective date: 20071023 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |