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  Protective spa cover and methodUSPTO Application #: 20060195978Title: Protective spa cover and method Abstract: A protective cover device for a spa, adapted to fit over a spa and a spa's insulated cover. The device comprises a center panel that covers the top of the spa and side panels that cover the sides of the spa. Corner panels may be attached to the side panels to cover the corners of the spa. Coupling means on one side of each side panel of the device help to keep the device in position over the spa and the spa's insulated cover. The device may be adjustable so as to accommodate varying spa sizes. The device's exterior may be used for advertising by placing names, logos, or the like thereon. (end of abstract) Agent: Weiss & Moy PC - Scottsdale, AZ, US Inventors: William R. Stout, Linda Stout USPTO Applicaton #: 20060195978 - Class: 004498000 (USPTO) Related Patent Categories: Baths, Closets, Sinks, And Spittoons, Pool Type, Accessory, Covering The Patent Description & Claims data below is from USPTO Patent Application 20060195978. Brief Patent Description - Full Patent Description - Patent Application Claims
RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This non-provisional application claims priority from provisional application No. 60/594,044, filed on Mar. 7, 2005. FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] This invention relates generally to protective covers for spas and, more particular, to a protective cover that is adjustable, fits over an insulated spa cover, and covers the top and sides of the spa, and/or that may convey an advertised message. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Spas, also referred to as "hot tubs" are commonly installed both indoors and outdoors. In either situation, to help minimize heat loss from the water in the spa, and to keep dirt, dust, and other debris from entering the spa when the spa is not in use, insulated covers are usually placed over the spa. Such insulated covers cover the top of the spa, but typically leave the spa's side cabinet panels exposed. This becomes a problem for spas that are installed outdoors, in that they may be exposed to sun, rain, and/or snow. Over time, the spa, as well as its insulated cover, can become damaged due to exposure to the elements. For example, the spa's exposed cabinet panels and insulated cover may fade, crack, splinter, warp and/or become discolored, thereby making the spa and insulated cover unattractive, and potentially causing the insulated cover to become ineffective. Because of this, it may become necessary to repair and/or replace the spa's cabinet panels and insulated cover, which can be costly. [0004] To help prevent damage to the spa's cabinet panels and insulated cover, protective cover devices have been developed that cover the entire spa. However, a limitation exists with the prior art devices in that they cannot fold easily, have fixed corners, and/or are not adjustable to allow for varied spa dimensions. [0005] A need therefore exists for a protective spa cover device that protects the entire spa and its insulated cover from the elements, is easy to install and remove, and is adjustable. [0006] The present invention satisfies these needs and provides other, related advantages. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0007] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a protective spa cover device is disclosed. The device comprises: a center panel adapted to fit over the top of a spa and a spa's insulated cover; four side panels, each adapted to fit over a side of a spa, wherein a side of each of the side panels is attached to a side of the center panel; and at least one coupling member attached to one side of each of the four side panels, wherein the coupling member is adapted to couple one side panel to an adjacent side panel, thereby securing the protective spa cover in position over the spa and the spa's insulated cover. [0008] In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a flexible protective spa cover device is disclosed. The device comprises: a substantially square-shaped center panel adapted to fit over the top of a spa and a spa's insulated cover; four substantially rectangular side panels, each adapted to fit over a side of a spa, wherein a side of each of the side panels is attached to a side of the center panel; four substantially rectangular corner panels, each adapted to fit over a corner of a spa, wherein a side of each of the corner panels is attached to a side of each of the side panels; and at least one coupling member attached to one side of each of the four side panels, wherein the coupling member is adapted to couple one side panel to an adjacent side panel, thereby securing the protective spa cover in position over the spa and the spa's insulated cover. [0009] In accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention, a method for protecting a spa and a spa's insulated cover from exposure to the elements is disclosed. The method comprises: providing a protective spa cover comprising: a center panel adapted to fit over the top of a spa and a spa's insulated cover; four side panels, each adapted to fit over a side of a spa, wherein a side of each of the side panels is attached to a side of the center panel; and at least one coupling member attached to one side of each of the four side panels, wherein the coupling member is adapted to couple one side panel to an adjacent side panel, thereby securing the protective spa cover in position over the spa and the spa's insulated cover; and installing the protective spa cover in position over the spa and the spa's insulated cover. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0010] FIG. 1 is a front, perspective, exploded view of a protective cover device and a spa, consistent with an embodiment of the present invention. [0011] FIG. 2 is a top view of the protective cover device of FIG. 1, in a disassembled position. [0012] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the protective cover device of FIG. 1, installed over a spa (not shown). [0013] FIG. 4 is a top view of a side panel of the protective cover device of FIG. 1. [0014] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a corner of the protective cover device of FIG. 3, showing a corner panel thereof in an assembled position. [0015] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the protective cover device of FIG. 1, illustrating a first and second orientation of a side panel of the protective cover, with the second orientation being shown in phantom. [0016] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the protective cover device of FIG. 1, illustrating in phantom an orientation of side flaps of the protective cover device. [0017] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the protective cover device of FIG. 1, installed over a spa (not shown). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [0018] Referring first to FIG. 2, an embodiment of a protective spa cover device 10 consistent with an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Preferably, the device 10 is made from a durable fabric and/or material, such as polyester reinforced fabric and/or waterproof material, or the like. The device 10 can be divided into three principal components: a center panel 12, four side panels 14 which are attached to the center panel 12, and four corner panels 16 which are attached to each of the side panels 14. Preferably, the center panel 12 is substantially square-shaped. In this way, the center panel 12 is adapted to fit over the top of a standard spa. However, other similar shapes could be used for the center panel 12, in order to accommodate unusual spa dimensions. With respect to the side panels 14, preferably, they are substantially rectangular shaped. In this way, the side panels 14 are adapted to cover the side cabinet panels 34 of a spa, as best shown in FIG. 1. However, other similar shapes could be used for the side panels 14, in order to accommodate unusual spa dimensions. Continue reading... Full patent description for Protective spa cover and method Brief Patent Description - Full Patent Description - Patent Application Claims Click on the above for other options relating to this Protective spa cover and method patent application. ###  How KEYWORD MONITOR works... a FREE service from FreshPatents1. Sign up (takes 30 seconds). 2. Fill in the keywords to be monitored. 3. Each week you receive an email with patent applications related to your keywords. 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