Swimming Pool Divider

Abstract

Described is a swimming pool divider that can be used to create a separated, shallow pool within a larger in-ground pool that is constructed for use by children. The swimming pool divider includes a first panel disposed vertically within a pool and secured about the pool's entryway, such as the pool's stairs. The first panel is substantially rectangular and is secured to the pool walls on opposing sides of the entryway by means of suction cups. A second panel is hingedly attached to a middle portion of the first panel. The second panel can be unfolded so that it is horizontal and perpendicular to the first panel, wherein the second panel acts as the floor for the separated pool area. Alternatively, the second panel can be folded for storage such that it rests flush against the first panel.

I claim: 
     
         1 ) A swimming pool divider, comprising:
 a first panel having an upper end, a lower end, a first side, and a second side;   wherein said first panel is substantially rectangular;   wherein said first panel comprises one or more suction cups disposed on a first face of said first panel;   a second panel pivotally secured to said first face of said first panel by one or more hinges such that said second panel can rotate between an unfolded configuration wherein said second panel is horizontal and is substantially perpendicular to said first panel, and a folded configuration wherein said second panel rests flush against said first face of said first panel.   
     
     
         2 ) The swimming pool divider of  claim 1 , wherein said first panel is transparent. 
     
     
         3 ) The swimming pool divider of  claim 1 , wherein said first panel is composed of high density polyethylene. 
     
     
         4 ) The swimming pool divider of  claim 1 , wherein said one or more hinges extend between said first side and said second side of said first panel. 
     
     
         5 ) The swimming pool divider of  claim 1 , wherein said second panel is transparent. 
     
     
         6 ) The swimming pool divider of  claim 1 , wherein said second panel is composed of high density polyethylene. 
     
     
         7 ) The swimming pool divider of  claim 1 , wherein the width of the first panel is greater than the width of the second panel. 
     
     
         8 ) The swimming pool divider of  claim 1 , wherein said second panel is folded upwards towards said upper end of said first panel when arranged in a folded configuration. 
     
     
         9 ) The swimming pool divider of  claim 1 , wherein said first panel comprises one or more apertures therethrough adapted to allow fluid to pass through said first panel. 
     
     
         10 ) The swimming pool divider of  claim 1 , wherein said second panel is substantially rectangular. 
     
     
         11 ) The swimming pool device of  claim 1 , wherein said suction cups are arranged along said first side of said first panel and along said second side of said second panel. 
     
     
         12 ) The swimming pool divider of  claim 1 , wherein said one or more hinges are disposed at substantial midpoint between said upper end and said lower end of said first panel. 
     
     
         13 ) The swimming pool divider of  claim 1 , wherein said second panel is adapted to pivot ninety degrees about a horizontal axis defined by said one or more hinges.