NL2030056B1

NL2030056B1 - A waterjet floor system, pool floor and kit of parts

Info

Publication number: NL2030056B1
Application number: NL2030056A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Van Buren Dave
Original assignee: Van Buren Dave
Priority date: 2021-12-07
Filing date: 2021-12-07
Publication date: 2023-06-22

Abstract

A floor system for water projecting comprising a plurality tiles arranged in a grid to form a stepping surface and a plurality of manifolds. Each manifold is designed for receiving pressurized water and for upwardly projecting the water to form a traversable barrier and wherein the plurality of manifolds are arranged along the edges of the tiles so as to allow the barrier to block off a stepping‘ direction. to or from. each. of the plurality of tiles. The system is characterized in comprising at least one pump arrangement for supplying the plurality of manifolds with pressurized water via a first main line, and a second main line and in that those manifolds of the plurality of manifolds that are arranged between adjacent tiles form a first set and are fluidly connected to the first main line. A separate second set is formed by those manifolds defining an outer perimeter with an entrance and an exit to and from the stepping surface, and manifolds of the second set are fluidly connected to the second main line. The second set is provided with actuatable valves so as to allow for the selective individual activation and deactivation of the barrier of each constituent manifolds of the second set. The system also comprises a control unit for implementing patterns of activation and deactivation of the barriers of the constituent manifolds of at least the second set.

Description

A waterjet floor system, pool floor and kit of parts

The present invention pertains to a waterjet floor system and a pool floor comprising such floor system, and a kit of parts for forming said system.

Presently, waterjet floor systems are also known as interactive play fountains. Recreational installations at water parks or spray parks typically consist of one or more raised structures upon which water nozzles are mounted, so as to emit a discharge stream of water on the park users. US 6,739,979 B2 discusses such fountains to have a support structure to permit users to stand thereon an navigate a number of water jets.

More recently, in 2015, the water sculpture artist Jeppe

Hein has unveiled a permanent water fountain in Forrest Place

Perth, Australia. This permanent fountain is cast into concrete and defines a nine stepping tiles laid in a three by three grid pattern. Water jet nozzles are arranged along the edges of each tile for projecting a traversable barrier of water. That is to say, users may pass through the barrier, but at the cost of getting wet. The fountain cycles through a number of predefined patterns allowing people to become trapped, that is to say temporarily boxed in, by water jets. People have great fun interacting with such fountains. Especially children are mightily captivated.

A problem of the latter fountain is that it is a costly and immovable system. The system is costly, because the system requires the use of actuator valves for each distinct set of nozzle along a single fluid line. Many parts of the fountain are thereby susceptible to back pressure fluctuations, during the closing and opening of valves, as well as inaccessible for maintenance. Because of the before mentioned there also persists a substantial lack of homogeneity in the jet heights of the fountain which, among other things, detracts from the gaming experience. It is an aim of the present invention to provide a system that less susceptible to back pressure fluctuations, as well as provide a more pleasant gaming experience.

To the above end there is provided a floor system comprising:

- 2 = - a plurality stepping tiles arranged in a grid to form a stepping surface; - a plurality of manifolds, wherein each manifold is designed for receiving pressurized water and for upwardly projecting said water to form a traversable barrier. The plurality of manifolds are arranged along the edges of the tiles so as to allow the barrier to block a stepping direction to or from each of the plurality of tiles.

The system 1s characterized in that it further comprises at least one pump arrangement for supplying the plurality of manifolds with pressurized water via a first main line, and a second main line different from the first main line. Those manifolds of the plurality of manifolds that are arranged between adjacent tiles form a first set and are fluidly connected, preferably exclusively, to the first main line, whereas a separate second set is formed by those manifolds defining an outer perimeter with an entrance and an exit to and from the stepping surface. In this invention the manifolds of the second set are fluidly connected, preferably exclusively, to the second main line, and wherein the second set is provided with actuatable valves so as to allow for the selective individual activation and deactivation of the barrier of each constituent manifolds of the second set. This allows the floor system to maintain a substantially homogeneous jet height along the outer perimeter regardless of changes in back pressure in the second line, which changes as a result of opening and closing valves. The system further comprises a control unit, such as a computer, for implementing cursal patterns of activation and deactivation of the barriers of the constituent manifolds of at least the second set, so as to allow the barriers of the plurality of manifolds to form a first maze, and wherein the control unit is programmed for changing the first maze into a different second maze. It should be noted that according to

Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maze the term labyrinth is generally considered synonymous with the term maze. There where the term maze is used the term labyrinth may also be understood and vice versa. That is to say, the term maze is to be understood to refer to both unicursal patterns and multicursal patterns. Cursal should be understood as a set

- 3 = course to which users are subjected for moving across the stepping surface. Preferably, the control unit is exclusively programmed for implements patterns that form mazes. A benefit of this preference is that back pressure variations, and barrier heights, are significantly reduced when only switching between these maze forming patters, also known as cursal patterns, compared to random patterns. Exclusively switching between maze patterns therefor already itself solves a significant portion of the issues troubling known water fountains. It is noted that random patterns may include states of the system in which only one or two manifolds are active and wherein all manifolds are active. This large variation may yield a substantial change in barrier height between patterns, This variation does not add to the gaming experience. By only using cursal patterns unnecessary strain on the system is avoided. A user of the system will furthermore have a far more consistent experience, always having an exit route available to him or her when crossing the stepping surface. Preferably, the tiles themselves are free of any water projecting capability. That is to say, the tiles themselves which form the stepping surface do themselves not comprise any nozzles. This prevents jets from unexpectedly manifesting underneath the foot of a user causing slipping and falling.

In addition to the before mentioned the first set may be provided with further actuatable valves so as to allow for the selective individual activation and deactivation of the barrier of only some, preferably a minority, but at least four, constituent manifolds of the first set. The control unit would in such a case be programmed to control the further valves to change the location of entrance and exit along the outer perimeter, such as when changing the first maze into the second maze. Beneficially, this allows the switching between mazes to be increasingly diverse at low cost.

One particularly preferential aspect of the invention has the at least one pump arrangement comprising a first pump for supplying pressurized water to the manifolds of the first set via the first main line, and a second pump for supplying pressurized water to the manifolds of the second set via the second main line. The constituent manifolds of the first set are connected to the first main line so as to form a first set of parallel fluid pathways. The constituent manifolds of the second set are connected to the second main line so as to form a second set of parallel fluid pathways. This beneficially prevents back pressure changes in the second set from effecting the outer wall section and vice versa.

In Jeppe Hein’s fountain tangentially directed forces are exerted by jets onto the manifolds. The prior art resolves this issue by encasing the manifolds in cement. Which makes them somewhat inaccessible for repairs. To this end the present invention proposes a cuboid manifold arranged so that at least one lateral face abuts the edge of a neighboring tile. This beneficially prevents tangentially directed forces resulting from the use of jets to cause rotation of the manifold, thus preventing a barrier from becoming tilted over time. The cuboid shape also prevents the walls from having an angular offset after installation. That is to say the ease of installation is increased with respect to the prior art. It is noted that an offset series of jets makes for a somewhat unsatisfactory gaming experience.

Regardless of the above, each manifold may be provided with a plurality a plurality of nozzles, such as 7, for creating a plurality of water jets, wherein the traversable barrier is formed by said plurality of water jets. Alternatively, a slit may be provided along the length of the manifold, for projecting a curtain of water therefrom. In the former case, the nozzles are arranged at an upper face of the manifold and spaced apart from each other along a single line. Optionally, each of the plurality of nozzles comprises a hollow threaded screw, that defines a longitudinal through hole for projecting a water jet therefrom. By instead furnishing a nozzle from a screw, the nozzles can be replaced without the need for internal access to the manifold, such as to resolve a contamination or clog. The screw may be an M8 or M10 screw with a 4-6 mm wide longitudinal through hole, preferably 5,2 mm. This design allows for a reduced water usage while maintaining a stable jet of water between 1- 3 meters. The manifold may also have a receiving portion for receiving water with a diameter of % of an inch, that is to say 1,9 cm. The receiving portion may define a connection port and a hose connected thereto itself being connected to a

— 5 = corresponding main line, such as a first or second main line.

Optionally, at least one of the tiles of the plurality of tiles is provided with a light, such as an LED light, arranged for illuminating at least a portion of the tile in such a manner that it is visible through the barriers. The benefit is that this light can draw a player’s interest causing the player to move deeper into the maze. Furthermore, the light provides players that are already in the maze with a sense of orientation and may be used to guide players towards an exit or target destination within the maze.

Besides longevity, reduced water use, and guidance there is also the matter of system control. The system may for example comprise a first human interface that is communicatively connected to the control unit arranged so as to allow a user to at least start and stop the at least one pump arrangement. Such from outside of the area outlined by the stepping surface and this could by a smartphone, tablet or laptop connected via

Bluetooth or a Wi-Fi connection to the control unit. To this end the control unit may be provided with wireless transceivers.

That is to say, the first interface may be the mentioned smartphone, tablet or laptop. However, it is also possible that the first human interface is a physical panel connected by cable to the control unit. Basically, the operator is given administrative powers to turn the system on or off. Opticnally, the first interface is designed to allow the user to change between mazes and/or enter or adjust the frequency with which the control unit changes between mazes. This would give an operator the ability to adjust settings to the preference of users from outside the gaming environment, and increase the interactive nature of the system. Further to this end a second human interface may be comprised in the system. This second interface may be arranged within an area that is outlined by the stepping surface, and wherein the second interface is communicatively connected to the control unit and is further arranged so as to allow a user to perform at least one of: — start and stop the at least one pump arrangement; —- change between mazes; — enter or adjust the frequency with which the control unit changes between mazes.

Lastly, in order to allow proper drainage of water from the surface and preventing the flooding of the stepping surface, the system may comprise a plurality of pedestals provided so as to raise the stepping surface from a lower surface for collecting water underneath the stepping surface. The plurality of pedestals are positioned underneath those points where at least two manifolds of the plurality of manifolds are coupled to each other, such as at their distal ends with a connector part. The pedestals may be between 15-35 cm high. Optionally, the pedestals are height adjustable so as to support the stepping surface in a horizontal fashion on an irregular lower surface.

Alternatively and/or additionally, the pedestals each comprise a flange that extends radially outward from an upper end thereof for supporting the corners of adjacent tiles to the coupling point.

According to a second aspect of the invention the system as described herein above is integrated with the floor of a pool. It should be noted that while the system, while integrated with a pool, thus possibly cast into cement, or provided into a recess, still preserves the benefits of longevity and the homogeneity of barrier height in use.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a kit of part for forming the system as described herein above, comprising: — the plurality of stepping tiles; - the plurality of manifolds; — the at least one pump arrangement; - the control unit.

The invention will hereinafter be discussed in relation to the figures: — Fig. 1 shows an aerial view of the system according to the invention; — Fig. 2 shows partial view of the system; — Fig. 3 shows a flow diagram of the system; and - Fig. 4 shows a cross-section of a manifold according to the invention.

Same reference signs in different figures refer to same features.

In Figure 1 a waterjet floor system 1 is shown. In this

- 7 = example a plurality of stepping tiles 2 are arranged in a grid so as to form a square stepping surface S of 5 by 6 tiles. The stepping surface need not be this specific size or shape. Other rectangular shapes, L-shaped or other shapes may also be assembled instead. The tiles don’t need to be square, but may be themselves rectangular, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal or a combination thereof so as to allow the stepping surface to form a grid. The system further has a plurality of manifolds 3, 4. These manifolds are arranged along the outer edges 2.1 of each of the tiles of the plurality, which is best seen from

Figure 2. In this manner the manifolds 3, 4 surround each tile.

Fach of the manifolds 3, 4 is more specifically fed pressurized water through a receiving portion 8, such as a hose, furnished in the lower face thereof. This too is best seen from Figure 2.

The manifolds 3, 4 are furthermore each fitted with a plurality of nozzles 7 arranged for upwardly projecting a barrier of water 9 composed of multiple jets of water. As the manifolds surround each tile this in turn allows each of the manifolds to project a barrier 9, shown in Figure 1, so as to block a stepping direction for a user to or from a tile along which edge said particular manifold is arranged.

In Figure 1 it can further be seen that possibly at least one of the tiles of the plurality of tiles is provided with a light L, such as an LED light, arranged for illuminating at least a portion of the tile in such a manner that it is visible through the barriers. In this example this particular tile is provided with LED in the walking surface. However, alternatively light may also be furnished within the tile wherein the upper face of the tile is transparent to light. The light L may be permanently on, but may alternatively be controlled by the control unit to be turned on or off at predetermined moments, such as prior to or during the switching between mazes.

In the invention as shown in Figure 3 the manifolds are subdivided in a first set of 22 outer manifolds 3 and a second set of 49 inner manifolds 4. The first set 3 is arranged so that its constituent manifolds receive pressurized water from a first main water line 10, whereas the second set 4 is arranged so that its constituent manifolds receive pressurized water from a second main water line 11 which is different from the first line. In Figure 3 the flow diagram of the system shows these separate main water lines 10 and 11 respectively as being connecting to a first pump arrangement 12 and a second pump arrangement 13. Alternatively, it may be possible to arrange the first and second lines as branched from a single pump. However, this is not shown in this example.

As can further be seen from Figure 3, the constituent manifolds of the second set of manifolds 4 are each individually provided with an actuatable valve 14, such as an electromagnetic, or solenoid, actuator valve, so as to allow for the selective individual activation and deactivation of the inner barriers 2.1 of the system. These valves 14 are provided to the receiving portion 8 of each of the respective manifolds, or are otherwise furnished within an inner volume defined by a casing of such manifold. The manifolds may be made of aluminum or steel, such as stainless steel.

The system further comprises a control unit 20, in this case a computer, for implementing patterns of activation and deactivation of the barriers of the plurality manifolds, so as to allow the barriers of the plurality of manifolds to form a first maze. To this end the computer is preloaded with patterns in which each tile has no more than 3 barriers cast along its edges. The control unit is programmed for changing the first maze into a different second maze. The computer system thus controls the pumps and each of the actuator valves.

According to the invention the manifolds of the first set 3 define the outer perimeter of the stepping surface. Two of these manifolds are interrupted, that is to say, prevented from simultaneously projecting a barrier to the other manifolds of the first set. These two interrupted, manifolds an entrance and an exit to and from the stepping surface respectively. It should therefore be understood that further actuatable valves 15 are opticnal. After all, many mazes are possible for which the entrance and exit remain in the same location. If one wished to allow a larger amount of different mazes to be rotated through by the system, one can however implement these further valves 15 so as to change the entrance and exit locations. It was found that it was not necessary to equip every manifold of the first set 3 with a further actuator valve, but rather just four. It was further also discovered that while more further valves 15 could be provided that this would not necessarily allow the system to switch between a much broader range of mazes. This is because many different mazes are actually a mirror image of another maze, or a rotation thereof. Thus, by only equipping a minority of manifolds of the first set 3 with further valves 15 a large combination of mazes remains accessible to the system while also allowing the system to be more reliable, in that fewer electric parts are involved in proximity to water. The latter will further reduce costs of maintenance and construction. There were these further valves 15 are indeed provided the control unit 20, here being the computer, is arranged to control them, so as to change the location of entrance and exit along the outer perimeter, such as when changing the first maze into the second maze.

The flow of water is per a two pump system which may have further particularities, also separate from all of the above mentioned features. The first line 10 for example is forked after the first pump 12 into a first sub-line 10.1 to which only those manifolds of the first set without valves are fluidly connected, and a second sub-line 10.2 onto which only those manifolds of the first set with further valves 15 are fluidly connected. This split allows the barriers of the outer perimeter to stabilize the height when, in use, the system switches between patterns, such as between mazes. A similar, also standalone optional feature for a two pump system is that the second line 11 forms, that is to say comprises, a loop 11.1 to which all manifolds of the second set are fluidly connected. This loop allows pressurizes water two paths to each manifold of the second set 4. This loop 11.1 allows the barriers of the manifolds of the second set to maintain substantially a same height throughout the maze when, in use. It is possible that the two before mentioned options may combine such that the computer powers the pump so as to allow the height of the barriers of the first set en the height of the barriers of the second set of manifolds to be the same height, in use. In use here simply means, when the system is active. As a further option the first sub-line 10.1 may itself be provided with a solenoid valve 10.3

- 10 = which may in turn be controlled by the control unit for turning the entire outer perimeter on or off.

While not paramount, it is for purpose of transparency herewith provided that the first and secund pump according to the example are each is designed for a same maximum fluid displacement of 10 cubic meters per hour. The computer may be designed so as to limit the power of the first and second pumps so that the height of the barriers are, in use, between 0,5-3 meters, preferably between 1-2 meters, so as to allow the barriers to act as such for humans while reducing water consumption and power. The system according to Figure 3 may be designed to reuse the emitted water, in fact, this is most preferable {from an ecological standpoint. Accordingly, the system may be provided with a sand filter 30 so that it particulate matter may be prevented from entering the pumps. A water basin may be provided (not shown, but customary) from which the pumps draw water and to which emitted water returns.

In order to prevent the stepping surface to overflow with water, and to allow proper drainage, the stepping surface S may be raised from a lower supporting surface S0, as shown in Figure 2. It can here also be seen that pedestals 40 may be positioned underneath those points where manifolds meet. The pedestals are each provided with a flange 41 at their upper end which extends radially outward so as to also support the corners of adjacent tiles. Water may flow between the tiles and the manifolds from the stepping surface to the lower surface S0 so as to collect or pool there. In fact, the water may flow from the lower surface

S50 towards a further holding vessel (not shown, but customary) from which water is subsequently pumped. Such a holding vessel may be provided with a gage (not shown, but customary) for checking the water level in such a holding vessel. The control unit 20 may be communicatively connected to such a gage for automatically monitoring the water level, wherein the control unit is preprogrammed to open a refill valve for drawing water from a external source into the holding vessel, and wherein the control unit is preprogrammed to close the refill valve when a predetermined water level is detected.

Figure 4 shows a cross section in the length direction of one of the manifolds 3 of the first set as shown in Figure 2.

The features of such a manifold are considered the same for any manifold 4 of the second set. The manifold 3 has the following length, width and height specifications 600x50x50 mm forming a cuboid. The nozzles furthermore are each provided as a threaded

M10 with a 5,2 mm longitudinal through hole in width from which, in use, a water jet may project. These are fixed in a threaded through hole 3.1 in the upper face 3.2 of a manifold and tightened with a rubber 7.1 ring so as to prevent leakage. In a 5x6 tile floor there will be a total of 497 nozzles. The nozzles are spaced equidistantly over the upper face 85 mm apart from each other. The manifold receives pressurized water via its receiving portion 8, which portion may be fitted with a computer controlled solenoid valve 15. The manifold 3 is furthermore also mnon-fluidically connected to other manifolds in a grid via a connector pieces 3.3. These connector pieces 3.3 are also exemplified in Figure 2 and are in this example shown to be cubic 50x50mm structures that are screwed onto the ends of each manifold using M10 screws 3.4, a common screw type. The connector pieces may take on other sizes and forms, such as hexagonal if for example hexagonal tiles were to be used.

Returning to Figure 3 it is further shown that control unit 20 has a first human interface 100, such as a switch panel, communicatively connected thereto. This first human interface is designed with an on/off switch (not shown, but customary) for turning the system on and off. When the system is turned off the at least one pump arrangement is powered down. Another switch (not shown, but customary) may be provided to allow a user to switch between mazes, and yet another switch (not shown, but customary) may be provided to change the frequency with which the control unit changes between mazes. The first human interface is designed to be operated by a supervisor and is as such preferably provided outside of an area that is outlined by the stepping surface. In one example, if the first or second interface is not interfaced with by a user, the control unit 20 is programmed to power down the system for preservation of energy. Alternatively, the system may not need a first human interface and operates fully autonomously in a preprogrammed manner.

Figure 3 also shows a possible second human interface which can be arranged within an area that is outlined by the stepping surface, and wherein the second interface is communicatively connected to the control unit and is further arranged so as to allow a user to just change between mazes. This second interface may be a button or a pressure switch connected to a tile. In one example this interface is connected to the tile with the light.

Herein below the aspects of the invention are summarized:

Aspect 1. A floor system (1) for water projecting comprising: — a plurality tiles (2) arranged in a grid to form a stepping surface (3); - a plurality of manifolds (3, 4), wherein each manifold is designed for receiving pressurized water and for upwardly projecting the water to form a traversable barrier (9, 9.1, 9.2) and wherein the plurality of manifolds (3, 4) are arranged along the edges (2.1) of the tiles so as to allow the barrier to block off a stepping direction to or from each of the plurality of tiles; and characterized in that the system comprises: — at least one pump arrangement (12, 13) for supplying the plurality of manifolds (3, 4) with pressurized water via a first main line (10), and a second main line (11), the system being further characterized in that those manifolds of the plurality of manifolds that are arranged between adjacent tiles form a first set (3) and are fluidly connected to the first main line, and wherein a separate second set (4) is formed by those manifolds (4) defining an outer perimeter (P) with an entrance and an exit to and from the stepping surface (3S), and manifolds of the second set are fluidly connected to the second main line, and wherein the second set is provided with actuatable valves (14) so as to allow for the selective individual activation and deactivation of the barrier of each constituent manifolds of the second set, and further characterized in that the system comprises: - a control unit, such as a computer, for implementing patterns of activation and deactivation of the barriers of

- 13 = the constituent manifolds of at least the second set, so as to allow the barriers of the plurality of manifolds to form a first maze, and wherein the control unit is programmed for changing the first maze into a second maze.

Aspect 2. The system according to aspect 1, characterized in that the first set is provided with further actuatable valves so as to allow for the selective individual activation and deactivation of the Aspect preferably a minority of, constituent manifolds of the first set, wherein the control unit is programmed to control the further actuator valves to change the location of entrance and exit along the outer perimeter, such as when changing the first maze into the second maze.

Aspect 3. The system according to aspect 1 or 2, wherein the at least one pump arrangement comprises a first pump for supplying pressurized water to the manifolds of the first set via the first main line, and a second pump for supplying pressurized water to the manifolds of the second set via the second main line, and wherein the constituent manifolds of the first set are connected to the first main line so as to form a firs set of parallel fluid pathways, and wherein the constituent manifolds of the second set are connected to the second main line so as to form a second set of parallel fluid pathways.

Aspect 4. The system according to any one of aspects 1-3, wherein each manifold of the plurality of manifolds (3, 4) cuboid and arranged so that at least one lateral face abuts the edge (2.1) of a neighboring tile.

Aspect 5. The system according to anyone of aspects 1-4, wherein each of the manifolds of the plurality of manifolds is provided with a plurality of nozzles, such as 7, for, in use, creating a plurality of water jets, wherein the traversable barrier is formed by said plurality of water jets.

Aspect 6. The system according to aspect 5, wherein the nozzles are arranged at an upper face of the manifold and spaced apart from each other along a single line.

Aspect 7. The system according to aspect 5 or 6, wherein each of the plurality of nozzles comprises a hollow threaded screw, that defines a longitudinal through hole for projecting a water jet therefrom.

Aspect 8. The system according to aspect 7, wherein the screw is an M8 or M10 screw with a 4-6 mm wide longitudinal through hole, preferably 5,2 mm.

Aspect 9. The system according to any one of aspects 1-8, wherein at least one of the tiles of the plurality of tiles is provided with a light, such as an LED light, arranged for illuminating at least a portion of the tile in such a manner that it is visible through the barriers.

Aspect 10. The system according to any one of aspects 1-9, comprising a first human interface that is communicatively connected to the control unit arranged so as to allow a user to at least: - start and stop the at least one pump arrangement, and optionally: —- change between mazes; - enter or adjust the frequency with which the control unit changes between mazes.

Aspect 11. The system according to aspect 10, wherein the first human interface is provided outside of an area that is outlined by the stepping surface.

Aspect 12. The system according to aspect 10 or 11, comprising a second human interface that is arranged within an area that is outlined by the stepping surface, and wherein the second interface is communicatively connected to the control unit and is further arranged so as to allow a user to perform at least one of: — start and stop the at least one pump arrangement; —- change between mazes; — enter or adjust the frequency with which the control unit changes between mazes.

Aspect 13. The system according to any one of aspects 1-12, comprising a plurality of pedestals arranged so as to raise the stepping surface from a lower surface for allowing water to flow and/or collect underneath the stepping surface, and wherein the plurality of pedestals are positioned underneath those points where at least two manifolds of the plurality of manifolds are coupled to each other.

Aspect 14. The system according to aspect 13, wherein

- 15 = each pedestal of the plurality of pedestals comprises a flange that extends radially outward from an upper end thereof for supporting the corners of adjacent tiles to the coupling point.

Aspect 15. A pool floor comprising the system according to any one of aspects 1-12.

Aspect 16. A kit of parts for forming the system according to any one of aspects 1-14 or 17, comprising: — the plurality of stepping tiles; - the plurality of manifolds; — the at least one pump arrangement; and - the control unit.

Aspect 17. A floor system (1) for water projecting comprising: — a plurality tiles (2) arranged in a grid to form a stepping surface (S}; - a plurality of manifolds (3, 4), wherein each manifold is designed for receiving pressurized water and for upwardly projecting the water to form a traversable barrier (5) and wherein the plurality of manifolds (3, 4) are arranged along the edges (2.1) of the tiles so as to allow the barrier to block off a stepping direction to or from each of the plurality of tiles; and characterized in that the system comprises: — at least one pump arrangement for supplying the plurality of manifolds with pressurized water to the plurality of manifolds (3, 4), and - a control unit, such as a computer, for implementing patterns of activation and deactivation of the barriers of at least some of the constituent manifolds of the plurality of manifolds, so as to allow the barriers of the plurality of manifolds to, in use, form a maze, and wherein the control unit is programmed for exclusively allowing the system to switch between maze patterns.

Claims

CONCLUSIESCONCLUSIONS

1. Een vloersysteem (1) voor de projectie van water omvattende: — een veelvoud looptegels (2) uitgevoerd in een raster om een loopoppervlak {(S}) te vormen; - een veelvoud verdeelstukken (3, 4), waarbij elk verdeelstuk is ontworpen om water onder druk te ontvangen en om deze naar opwaarts te projecteren om een doorkruisbare barrière (9, 9.1, 92.2) te vormen en waarbij het veelvoud verdeelstukken (3, 4} zijn uitgevoerd langs de randen (2.1) van de tegels om zo de barrière instaat te stellen om een staprichting af te blokkeren van of naar elk van het veelvoud looptegels; en met het kenmerk dat het systeem voorzien is van: - ten minste één pompinrichting (12, 13) voor het aan het veelvoud verdeelstukken (3, 4) verschaffen van water onder druk via een eerste hoofdleiding (10) en een tweede hoofdleiding (11), waarbij het systeem verder gekenmerkt is in dat die verdeelstukken van het veelvoud verdeelstukken (3, 4) die zijn ingericht tussen aangrenzende tegels een eerste set (3) vormen, en in fluidumverbinding staan met de eerste hoofdleiding, en waarbij een aparte tweede set (4) gevormd wordt door die verdeelstukken die een buitenomtrek (P) met een ingang en uitgang van het loopoppervlak {(S) definiëren en waarbij verdeelstekken van de tweede set (4) in fluidumverbinding staan met de tweede hoofdleiding (11), en waarbij de tweede set is voorzien van actueerbare kleppen (14) om de selectieve individuele activering en deactiveren van de barrière van elk van de verdeelstukken die deel uitmaken van de tweede set toe te staan, en waarbij verder het systeem voorzien is van: - een besturingseenheid, zoals een computer, voor het implementeren van patronen van activering en deactivering van de barrières van ten minste die verdeelstukken die deel uit maken van de tweede set, om zo de barrières van het veelvoud van verdeelstukken een eerste doolhof te laten vormen, en waarbij de besturingseenheid is geprogrammeerd om het eerste doolhof in een tweede doolhof te veranderen.A floor system (1) for the projection of water comprising: - a plurality of walkway tiles (2) arranged in a grid to form a walkway {(S}); - a plurality of manifolds (3, 4), each manifold designed to receive pressurized water and to project it upwards to form a traversable barrier (9, 9.1, 92.2) and the plurality of manifolds (3, 4 } are constructed along the edges (2.1) of the tiles so as to enable the barrier to block a stepping direction from or to each of the plurality of walking tiles, and characterized in that the system is provided with: - at least one pumping device (12, 13) for supplying pressurized water to the plurality of manifolds (3, 4) via a first main line (10) and a second main line (11), the system further characterized in that said manifolds of the plurality of manifolds (3, 4) arranged between adjacent tiles form a first set (3), and are in fluid communication with the first main conduit, and a separate second set (4) being formed by those manifolds which have an outer periphery (P) with a defining entry and exit of the running surface {(S) and wherein manifolds of the second set (4) are in fluid communication with the second main conduit (11), and wherein the second set is provided with actuable valves (14) to enable selective individual actuation and allowing deactivation of the barrier of each of the manifolds that are part of the second set, and further comprising: - a control unit, such as a computer, for implementing patterns of activation and deactivation of the barriers of at least those manifolds that are part of the second set so as to cause the barriers of the plurality of manifolds to form a first maze, and wherein the controller is programmed to change the first maze into a second maze.

2. Het systeem volgens conclusie 1, met het kenmerk dat de eerste set (3) voorzien is van verdere actueerbare kleppen (15) om zo de selectieve individuele activering en deactivering van de barrières (9.1) van alleen sommige, bij voorkeur een minderheid, van de verdeelstukken die deel uitmaken van de eerste set (3), waarbij de besturingseenheid geprogrammeerd is om de verdere kleppen te besturen om de locatie van de in- en uitgang langs de buitenomtrek (P) te veranderen, zoals wanneer het eerste doolhof in een tweede doolhof veranderd.The system according to claim 1, characterized in that the first set (3) is provided with further actuable valves (15) so as to enable the selective individual activation and deactivation of the barriers (9.1) of only some, preferably a minority, of the manifolds that are part of the first set (3), the control unit being programmed to control the further valves to change the location of the entrance and exit along the outer perimeter (P), such as when the first maze is in a second maze changed.

3. Het systeem volgens conclusie 1 of 2, waarbij de ten minste ene pompinrichting (12, 13) een eerste pomp (12) omvat om water onder druk aan de verdeelstukken van de eerste set (3) te verschaffen via de eerste hoofdleiding (10), en een tweede pomp {13} om water onder druk aan de verdeelstukken van de tweede set (4) te verschaffen via de tweede hoofdleiding (11), waarbij de verdeelstukken die deel uitmaken van de eerste set (3) met de eerste hoofdleiding verbonden zijn om zo een eerste set van parallelle fluidumpaden te vormen, en waarbij de verdeelstukken die deel uitmaken van de tweede set (4) verbonden zijn met de tweede hoofdlijn om zo een tweede set van parallelle fluidumpaden te vormen.The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one pumping device (12, 13) comprises a first pump (12) for supplying pressurized water to the manifolds of the first set (3) via the first main line (10 ), and a second pump {13} to supply pressurized water to the manifolds of the second set (4) via the second main line (11), the manifolds forming part of the first set (3) connecting with the first main line connected to form a first set of parallel fluid paths, and wherein the manifolds forming part of the second set (4) are connected to the second trunk to form a second set of parallel fluid paths.

4. Het systeem volgens een van conclusies 1-3, waarbij elk verdeelstuk van het veelvoud verdeelstukken (3, 4) kubusvormig is en zo is opgesteld dat ten minste één lateraal gezicht tegen de rand (2.1) van een naburige tegel aanligt.The system according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein each manifold of the plurality of manifolds (3, 4) is cubic and arranged so that at least one lateral face abuts the edge (2.1) of an adjacent tile.

5. Het systeem volgens een van conclusies 1-4, waarbij elk van de verdeelstukken van het veelvoud verdeelstukken (3, 4) is voorzien van een veelvoud spuitstukken, zoals 7, voor het, in gebruik, produceren van een veelvoud waterstralen, waarbij de doorkruisbare barrière wordt gevormd door genoemd veelvoud waterstralen.The system according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein each of the manifolds of the plurality of manifolds (3, 4) is provided with a plurality of nozzles, such as 7, for producing, in use, a plurality of water jets, the traversable barrier is formed by said multiple jets of water.

6. Het systeem volgens conclusie 5, waarbij de spuitstukken zijn ingericht aan een bovenste gezicht van het verdeelstuk en uit elkaar geplaatst zijn van elkaar langs een enkele lijn.The system of claim 5, wherein the nozzles are arranged on an upper face of the manifold and are spaced apart from each other along a single line.

7. Het systeem volgens conclusie 5 of 6, waarbij elk van het veelvoud spuitstukken een holle draadschroef omvat die een longitudinale doorgangsopening definieert om een waterstraal daarvan te projecteren.The system of claim 5 or 6, wherein each of the plurality of nozzles comprises a hollow thread screw defining a longitudinal passage opening for projecting a jet of water therefrom.

8. Het systeem volgens conclusie 7, waarbij de schroef een M8 of M10 schroef is met een 4-6 mm brede longitudinale doorgangsopening, bij voorkeur 5,2 mm.The system according to claim 7, wherein the screw is an M8 or M10 screw with a 4-6 mm wide longitudinal passage opening, preferably 5.2 mm.

9. Het systeem volgens een van conclusies 1-8, waarbij ten minste één van de tegels van het veelvoud tegels (2} van een licht (L) voorzien is, zoals een LED licht, ingericht voor het verlichten van ten minste een deel van de tegel zodanig dat deze door de barrières zichtbaar is.The system according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein at least one of the tiles of the plurality of tiles (2} is provided with a light (L), such as an LED light, arranged to illuminate at least a portion of the tile so that it can be seen through the barriers.

10. Het systeem volgens een van conclusies 1-9, omvattende een eerste menselijke interface (100) die communicatief verbonden is met de besturingseenheid (20) zo ingericht om de gebruik in staat te stellen om: — de ten minste ene pompinrichting (12, 13) te starten en te stoppen, en om optioneel - te wisselen tussen doolhoven; — de frequentie waarmee het systeem tussen doolhoven wisselt in te stellen of aan te passen.The system according to any one of claims 1-9, comprising a first human interface (100) communicatively connected to the control unit (20) arranged to enable the user to: - control the at least one pumping device (12, 13) start and stop, and optionally - switch between mazes; — set or adjust the frequency with which the system switches between mazes.

11. Het systeem volgens conclusie 10, waarbij de eerste menselijke interface (100) is uitgevoerd buiten een door het loopoppervlak afgebakend gebied.The system of claim 10, wherein the first human interface (100) is configured outside an area defined by the walking surface.

12. Het systeem volgens conclusie 10 of 11, omvattende een tweede menselijke interface (200) die is ingericht binnen een door het loopoppervlak ({S) afgebakend gebied, en waarbij het tweede interface communicatief verbonden is met de besturingseenheid (20) en verder zo is ingericht om de gebruiker in staat te stellen om ten minste één van: — de ten minste ene pompinrichting (12, 13) te starten en stoppen; - te wisselen tussen doolhoven; - de frequentie waarmee het systeem tussen doolhoven wisselt in te stellen of aan te passen.The system according to claim 10 or 11, comprising a second human interface (200) arranged within an area defined by the walking surface ({S), and wherein the second interface is communicatively connected to the control unit (20) and further so is arranged to enable the user to start and stop at least one of: - the at least one pumping device (12, 13); - switch between mazes; - set or adjust the frequency with which the system switches between mazes.

13. Het systeem volgens een van conclusies 1-12, omvattende een veelvoud voetstukken (40) opgesteld om het loopoppervlak (S) van een lager gelegen oppervlak (50) te verhogen om water te laten stromen en/of op te vangen onder het loopoppervlak (3), en waarbij het veelvoud voetstukken geplaatst zijn onder die punten waar ten minste twee verdeelstukken van het veelvoud verdeelstukken (3, 4) aan elkaar gekoppeld zijn.The system according to any one of claims 1-12, comprising a plurality of pedestals (40) arranged to raise the walking surface (S) from a lower surface (50) to allow water to flow and/or collect below the walking surface (3), and wherein the plurality of bases are located below those points where at least two manifolds of the plurality of manifolds (3, 4) are coupled together.

14. Het systeem volgens conclusie 13, waarbij elk voetstuk van het veelvoud voetstukken een flens omvat die zich radiaal uitstrekt van een bovenste einde daarvan voor het ondersteunen van de hoeken van de tegels die aan het koppelpunt grenzen.The system of claim 13, wherein each pedestal of the plurality of pedestals includes a flange extending radially from an upper end thereof for supporting the corners of the tiles adjacent the docking point.

15. Een vloer van een zwembad omvattende het systeem volgens ten minste één van conclusies 1-12.A swimming pool floor comprising the system of at least one of claims 1-12.

16. Een kit van onderdelen voor het vormen van het systeem (1) volgens een van conclusies 1-14 of 17, omvattende: — het veelvoud looptegels (2); — het veelvoud verdeelstukken (3, 4); — de ten minste ene pompinrichting (12, 13); en — de besturingseenheid (20).A kit of parts for forming the system (1) according to any one of claims 1-14 or 17, comprising: - the plurality of running tiles (2); - the plurality of manifolds (3, 4); - the at least one pumping device (12, 13); and - the control unit (20).

17. Een vloersysteem (1) voor de projectie van water omvattende: — een veelvoud looptegels (2) uitgevoerd in een raster om een loopoppervlak (S} te vormen; — een veelvoud verdeelstukken (3, 4), waarbij elk verdeelstuk is ontworpen om water onder druk te ontvangen en om deze naar opwaarts te projecteren om een doorkruisbare barrière (9, 9.1, 9.2) te vormen en waarbij het veelvoud verdeelstukken (3, 4) zijn uitgevoerd langs de randen17. A floor system (1) for the projection of water comprising: — a plurality of walkway tiles (2) arranged in a grid to form a walkway surface (S}, — a plurality of manifolds (3, 4), each manifold designed to receive pressurized water and project it upwards to form a traversable barrier (9, 9.1, 9.2) and the plurality of manifolds (3, 4) are arranged along the edges

(2.1) van de tegels om zo de barrière instaat te stellen om een staprichting af te blokkeren van of naar elk van het veelvoud looptegels; en met het kenmerk dat het systeem voorzien is van: — ten minste één pompinrichting (12, 13) voor het verschaffen van water onder druk aan het veelvoud verdeelstukken (3, 4); en - een besturingseenheid, zoals een computer, voor het implementeren van patronen van activering en deactivering van de barrières van ten minste sommige verdeelstukken van het veelvoud verdeelstukken om zo, in gebruik, de barrières van het veelvoud van verdeelstukken een doolhof te laten vormen, en waarbij de besturingseenheid is geprogrammeerd om het systeem uitsluitend tussen doolhofpatronen te laten wisselen.(2.1) of the tiles so as to enable the barrier to block a direction of step from or to each of the plurality of walk tiles; and characterized in that the system comprises: - at least one pumping device (12, 13) for supplying pressurized water to the plurality of manifolds (3, 4); and - a controller, such as a computer, for implementing activation and deactivation patterns of the barriers of at least some of the manifolds of the plurality of manifolds so as, in use, to make the barriers of the plurality of manifolds form a maze, and wherein the controller is programmed to only allow the system to switch between maze patterns.