WO2024196267A1

WO2024196267A1 - An apparatus for controlling the flow of fluids

Info

Publication number: WO2024196267A1
Application number: PCT/NZ2024/050032
Authority: WO
Inventors: Robin James JOBE
Original assignee: Jobe Holdings Ltd
Current assignee: Jobe Holdings Ltd
Priority date: 2023-03-23
Filing date: 2024-03-22
Publication date: 2024-09-26
Anticipated expiration: 2025-09-23
Also published as: AU2024240491A1

Abstract

The invention is an apparatus for controlling the flow of a fluid, preferably water, to a body of water, such as a swimming pool or a pond. The apparatus includes a valve assembly which is configured to be mounted to a hollow shell. The exterior of the shell is decorated to represent a natural feature of the environment, for example, an aquatic animal. The underside of the shell is configured with a cavity, a portion of which is defined by at least part of the mounting portion of the valve assembly. The mounting portion includes a fitting to receive a hose supplying water to the valve assembly.

Description

AN APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING THE FLOW OF FLUIDS

1. STATEMENT OF CORRESPON DING APPLICATIONS

This application is based on New Zealand Patent Application No. 798411, filed on 23 March 2023, and the entire contents of same are incorporated herein by reference.

2. FIELD OF THE TECHNOLOGY

The present invention relates to an apparatus for controlling flow of a fluid. The invention has particular application to controlling the flow of water into a small body of water, such as a swimming pool or pond.

3. BACKGROUND TO THE TECHNOLOGY

Many dwellings, domestic or otherwise, often have bodies of water associated with them, for example swimming pools or ponds, for recreational, functional or aesthetic reasons.

Over time, the water level in these bodies of waters may be lowered through evaporation or water activities, such as swimming and diving, which results in loss of water. Occasionally, maintenance activities, particularly those related to swimming pools, may require deliberate loss of water; for example, maintenance of the saltwater chlorinator if present, backwashing pool filters or vacuuming to waste. In other instances, water may need to be added; for example to maintain the chemical balance of the water.

As such, it may be necessary to periodically top up the amount of water present in the body of water. The simplest way of doing so is through the use of a hose. However, depending on the pressure of the water supply, the hose may need to be weighted down through the use of furniture or other heavy item. This can be unsightly for users.

Furthermore, when using a hose to top up a body of water, it may need to be regularly monitored so as to ensure that there is no overfilling. However, it can be easy to forget to do this and sometimes more water enters the body of water than is desired. This may lead to spillage of water. In the case of a swimming pool, this may affect also the filtering system and thus excess water needs to be discharged. This is wasteful of water, particularly in areas of limited supply.

Arrangements for automatically shutting off water flow into a body of water are known. One such example is the Trough-O-Matic™ Little Giant Valve. This arrangement is relatively cumbersome and is poorly suited for use with swimming pools due to its appearance and limited performance, particularly at higher water pressures as may be experienced when swimming pools are being refilled using water sourced from a mains supply. Another example of an existing arrangement for controlling and maintaining water levels in a swimming pool is the Water Leveller. However, this is also relatively cumbersome, requiring the hose

providing the water to be connected directly to the float arrangement. It also has limited aesthetic appeal.

4. OBJECT OF THE TECHNOLOGY

It is an object of the technology to provide an apparatus for controlling flow of fluids.

Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide an apparatus for controlling flow of water into a body of water such as a pond or swimming pool.

Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide an apparatus for automatically controlling flow of water into a body of water such as a pond or swimming pool.

Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide an aesthetically pleasing apparatus for automatically controlling flow of water into a body of water such as a pond or swimming pool.

Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to provide a cost-effective apparatus for automatically controlling flow of water into a body of water such as a pond or swimming pool.

Alternatively, it is an object of the technology to at least provide the public with a useful choice.

5. SUMMARY OF THE TECHNOLOGY

According to one aspect of the technology there is provided an apparatus for controlling flow of a fluid, wherein the apparatus includes: a valve assembly, wherein the valve assembly includes: a valve including a passage therethrough for a fluid; a float for the valve; and a mounting portion, wherein the mounting portion is configured with a fitting to receive a supply of fluid from a hose and is communicative with the passage; a hollow shell, wherein the hollow shell includes: a first end, wherein the first end is configured to receive a portion of the hose; a second end, wherein the second end is configured to receive the mounting portion of the valve assembly; and an underside configured with a cavity, wherein the cavity is at least partially defined by part of the mounting portion of the valve assembly, and wherein the fitting for the supply of fluid is positioned within the cavity.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of controlling flow of fluid to a body of water, the method including the steps of: a) placing an apparatus substantially as described above proximate the body of water such that the hollow shell is adjacent the body of water and the float of the valve is in or above the body of water; and b) connecting a supply of fluid to the fitting of the mounting portion of the apparatus.

In an example, the apparatus controls the flow of water into a body of water, such as a pond, a water feature such as a fountain, or a swimming pool.

In an example, the supply of fluid is a hose connected to a source of water. In a particularly preferred example, the source of water is a mains water supply.

In an example, an end of the hose is provided with a fitting complementary to the fitting of the mounting portion of the valve assembly. In a particularly preferred example, the fitting of the hose is a universal type fitting that forms a snap-lock connection with the fitting of the mounting portion of the valve assembly. In an alternative example, the fitting of the hose is configured with a screw thread mechanism that is threaded onto the fitting of the mounting portion of the valve assembly.

In an example, the valve includes a valve body, the passage extending therethrough.

In an example, the valve includes an O-ring on a seating surface within the passage.

In an example, the valve includes a valve cartridge assembly.

In an example, the valve cartridge assembly of the valve includes a surface that seals against the passage and/or a seating surface of the valve body.

In an example, the valve cartridge assembly includes a valve stem, wherein the surface that seals against the passage and/or seating surface of the valve body is a head provided to the valve stem.

In an example, the valve stem is urged by a spring against the passage of the valve body.

In an example, the valve assembly includes an arm having a first end and a second end. In an example, the first end of the arm is pivotally mounted or otherwise connected to the mounting portion.

In an example, when the arm is in a first configuration, the passage is open to allow flow of the fluid therethrough and when the arm is in a second configuration, the passage is closed to prevent or at least substantially reduce flow of the fluid therethrough.

In an example, the first end of the arm includes a surface that, in use, may bear against a portion of the valve, when the arm is in the second configuration thereby closing the passage therethrough to prevent flow of the fluid.

In an example, the first end of the arm bears against the valve stem when the arm is in the second configuration. In an example, the first configuration is when pivotal movement of the arm towards the vertical applies a force to the valve stem that is greater than that of the spring applying force to the stem, moving the head of the valve stem away from the passage and/or seating surface, thereby opening the passage of the valve and allowing flow of water therethrough.

In an example, the second configuration is when pivotal movement of the arm away from the vertical reduces the force applied to the valve stem such that the force applied by the spring to the stem, returning the head of the valve stem towards the passage and/or seating surface, thereby reducing and/or closing the passage of the valve and preventing flow of water therethrough.

In an example, the float is mounted or otherwise connected to the second end of the arm.

In an example, the float is provided with a closure mechanism that permits access to the interior of the float. In a particularly preferred example, the closure mechanism is a push-fit cap or a threaded cap.

In an example, the first end of the hollow shell includes a cut out or recess configured to receive a portion of a hose supplying water to the valve assembly of the apparatus.

In an example, the second end of the hollow shell is configured with one or more slots configured to be complementary to one or more edges of the mounting portion of the valve assembly. In an alternative example, the second end of the hollow shell is configured with an open section configured to receive the mounting portion in a push-fit or interlocking fit.

In an example, the hollow shell has an interior, wherein the interior is defined by an upper surface and at least part of the underside of the hollow shell, the respective upper surface and underside linked by a continuous wall. In an example, the hollow shell is provided with at least one closure mechanism that permits access to the interior of the hollow shell. In a particularly preferred example, the closure mechanism is a push-fit cap or a threaded cap.

In an example, the hollow shell has a substantially dome-like or hemispherical external profile in a side view wherein, in use, the flat portion of said profile sits on the substrate adjacent to the body of water.

In an example, the hollow shell has an arcuated or contoured external upper surface and a substantially flat surface.

In an example, the at least a portion of the external upper surface of the hollow shell is configured or contoured with an aesthetically pleasing finish.

In an example, the external upper surface of the hollow shell is configured to represent a natural feature of a sea, freshwaterjungle, forest, or alpine environment. In a particularly preferred but non-limiting example, the external surface is configured to represent a portion of the body of an aquatic animal, such as a turtle or tortoise. However, the external surface may alternatively be configured such that it represents an inanimate object, such as a rock or tree stump or the like to better blend in with the environment with which it is to be used.

In an example, one or more of the valve, the float, and the mounting portion is configured or contoured to complement the appearance of the hollow shell. In a particularly preferred but non-limiting example, one or more of the valve, the float, and the mounting portion may be configured to represent another portion of the body of the aquatic animal represented by the hollow shell.

Further aspects of the technology, which should be considered in all its novel aspects, will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading of the following description which provides at least one example of a practical application of the technology.

6. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more embodiments of the technology will be described below by way of example only, and without intending to be limiting, with reference to the following drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 is a perspective partial cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the invention;

Figure 3 is a side partial cross-sectional view of the valve assembly of the embodiment of Figure 2; Figure 4 is a close-up side partial cross-sectional view of the valve assembly of Figure 3;

Figure 5A is a close-up side view of the embodiment of Figure 1 with the float of same in a first position; and

Figure 5B is a close-up side view of the embodiment of Figure 1 with the float of same in a second position.

7. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY FORMS OF THE TECHNOLOGY

The present invention, generally indicated by arrow 100, is an apparatus for controlling the flow of fluids and is shown in an in-use configuration in Figure 1. It is intended to be placed at an edge of a body of water, such as a swimming pool. Throughout the remainder of the specification reference will be made to the body of water being a swimming pool but it will be understood that this is not meant to be limiting and the apparatus could be used, for example, with a pond or water feature.

The apparatus 100 receives a supply of water via a hose H, the end of which is disposed within a cavity (not visible) under a hollow shell 200 to which a valve assembly 300 is mounted.

As the water level in the swimming pool drops, the valve assembly 300 acts to automatically allow flow of water from the hose H into the swimming pool. When the water level in the swimming pool has reached the desired level, the valve assembly is automatically closed, preventing further water flow. This means that it is no longer necessary for the person maintaining the water level of the swimming pool needs to actively monitor its refilling once they have activated the water flow through the hose H.

In the illustrated example, the hollow shell 200 is of a substantially hemispherical or dome-like shape, the upper surface of which being configured to represent the shell of a turtle. Configuring the hollow shell as an aquatic animal, such as a turtle, adds an element of fun and aesthetic appeal when the invention 100 is used in a pool side setting, particularly where young children may be present.

However, this is not meant to be limiting and the hollow shell 200 may be configured such that it may represent other aquatic animals, or indeed other types of animals, if preferred. The hollow shell 200 may alternatively be configured as an inanimate object to better blend in with the environment in which it is to be used. One such example may be when being used with a pond; in this scenario, the hollow shell may be configured to represent a rock or similar natural feature to better blend in with the environment.

It will be recognised that it is possible that the hollow shell may take a variety of forms. This may provide the consumer with a range of choices for customising the appearance of the hollow shell to best match their needs and the environment in which the invention is to be used. The valve assembly shown in Figure 1 includes a mounting portion or plate 302, which includes the valve itself (not visible in this view), a float arm 316 and a float 326. As can be seen, the appearance of at least a portion of the float arm is configured to represent the head of a turtle; as such, it complements the appearance of the hollow shell 200. The float of the embodiment of Figure 1 is configured to represent a fish. This may provide some appeal to younger persons who may be using the swimming pool. However, it should be appreciated that this is one example of a float configuration and it may take other forms, depending on the manufacturer's preference and market.

The operation of the invention 100 will be better understood in reference to Figure 2, in which it is shown in a partial cross-sectional view. As already noted, the invention includes the hollow shell 200 to which the valve assembly 300 is mounted.

Referring first to the hollow shell 200, this is rotationally moulded (although other moulding techniques may be used, and it could also be 3D-printed) from a suitably robust plastics material, such as high density polyethylene (HDPE) or Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS). Preferably, the plastics material used has a high UV light resistance as the invention may be exposed to sunlight for significant periods of time.

The hollow shell 200 is defined by an external, upper surface 202, a lower surface 202a, connected via a wall 202b. In the illustrated example, the wall forms a flat surface, i.e. base, which contacts the substrate in use.

As can be seen from the cross-sectional profile, the hollow shell 200 has a substantially hemispherical or dome-like shape to its external upper surface 202 and its lower surface is similarly configured such that that a cavity 204 is formed on the underside of the hollow shell. In use, the base of the hollow shell sits on the side of the swimming pool.

To permit access to the interior 206 of the shell, a cap 208 is provided. This allows the interior, which is otherwise sealed, to be filled with water or another substance to add ballast and weigh the invention 100 down.

A cut out or opening 210 is provided to the first end 212 of the hollow shell 200, proximate the base. In use, this provides clearance for the hose (not shown in this view) to pass under the hollow shell without affect the latter's ability to sit substantially flush on the substrate. Without this cut out, a portion of the base of the hollow shell would sit atop of the hose in use. This arrangement also serves to restrain any movement of the hose arising from a change in the pressure of water flowing therethrough, particularly when the supply of water flowing through the hose is first turned on.

The second or opposing end 214 of the hollow shell 200 is configured to receive the valve assembly 300, and in particular the plate 302. In the example shown here, the valve plate 302 is disposed in a substantially vertically orientated slot (obscured but indicated by 216) provided to the second end of the hollow shell. This mounts the valve assembly to the hollow shell. However, in some examples not shown here, the plate may be configured to engage with the second end of the hollow shell in a snap-lock arrangement or even through the use of separate fasteners.

Turning now to the valve assembly 300, the applicant proposes to use its mechanical float operated valve, marketed as the Rojo™ Compact Float Valve, with some modifications for use with the present invention 100. Depending on the water pressure, the Rojo™ valve allows flow of up to 20 litres of water per minute. This is a suitable flow rate for topping up of water levels of a swimming pool. However, this is meant only by way of example, and persons skilled in the art will readily appreciate the invention may be used with other float valves with modifications as will be readily envisaged bearing in mind the present disclosure of the invention.

The valve assembly 300 is preferably formed from a suitably robust plastics material. Some components, such as the float of the valve assembly, may be formed from the likes of high density polyethylene (HDPE) or Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), using conventional moulding techniques readily apparent to the skilled addressee. Other components, for example the mounting portion 302 discussed further below, may be glass reinforced nylon or similar. In some instances, the valve assembly, or parts thereof, may be 3D printed. Preferably, the plastics material used for forming the valve assembly has a high UV light resistance as the invention may be exposed to sunlight for significant periods of time.

Although the mounting portion 302 is in the form of a plate in the illustrated embodiment, it should be appreciated that it may take other forms; for example, it may be configured as a wedge like structure, interlocking with a corresponding cut out or opening provided to the second end 214 of the hollow shell 200. In this scenario, at least a part of the exterior surface of the mounting portion may be configured to complement the exterior surface of the hollow shell, such that it has a substantially seamless appearance. This may help with the desired aesthetic appearance of the hollow shell.

A hose fitting 304 is provided to the plate 302. The fitting may be of the universal type, which engages with a complementary coupling provided to the hose (not shown in this view) in a snap-lock type arrangement. However, it could be a screw thread-type coupling if preferred.

From this, it will be understood that in use, the attachment of the hose (not shown) to the invention 100 is within the cavity 204 formed underneath the hollow shell 202. This is an important aspect of the invention as it places the connection between the hose and invention out of sight and as low down as possible. The embodiment of Figure 2 (and Figures 3 and 4 discussed below) differs from that shown in Figure 1 in that the float 326 takes a more functional form. It should be appreciated that one of the advantages of the invention is providing an apparatus for controlling fluid of water (or other fluid) into a body of water (or other fluid) which provides the manufacturer the ability to customise part or all of its appearance while still retaining its basic function. The float may be slightly weighted so that there is sufficient leverage for it act upon the valve, bearing in mind the need to overcome the pressure of the incoming water delivered by the hose (not shown).

The valve assembly 300 is shown in isolation in Figures 3 and 4 and consists of the plate 302, which is received by the hollow body (not shown in these views) and includes an integrally formed valve body 306. One side of the valve body opens to the outer side of the plate while the inner side, which in use opens into and at least partially defines the cavity of the hollow shell, has a mouth 308 which receives the hose fitting (not shown in these views).

Passing through the valve body 306 is a passage through which water from the hose (not shown in these views) passes in use. As shown here, the passage has a downward facing outlet 310 or spout, which is configured to approximate the appearance of the chest and/or leg of the turtle. This helps with the overall appearance of the invention. Persons skilled in the art will readily appreciate other ways in which the outlet of the passage could be integrated with the desired aesthetic appearance. This arrangement also serves to better funnel the water into the swimming pool and potentially reduce splashing.

The valve body 306 also contains a valve cartridge assembly 311 that includes an O-ring 312 through which passes a stem 314. The reverse side of the head 314a of the stem bears against the O-ring; in this configuration, flow through the passage, which is at least partially defined by the opening at the centre of the O-ring, is prevented. However, it will be understood that when the head of the stem is sufficiently displaced or otherwise moved away from the O-ring, this opens the passage through the valve body 306.

It will be seen that the valve assembly 300 includes an elongate arm 316 with a first end 318 that is pivotally mounted via a pin 320 to the outer side of the valve plate 302.

It will be noted that as with the embodiment of Figure 1, the first end 318 of the arm 316 is configured to approximate the shape of the head of a turtle, in keeping with the particular design aesthetic of the illustrated embodiment of the invention 100. The remainder of the arm may also be configured to complement the overall selected design aesthetic. It will be appreciated that if desired, persons skilled in the art will readily modify the elongate arm to better fit in with whatever design aesthetic is selected for the invention. The first end 318 of the arm 316 includes a biasing surface 322 that, depending on the angle of the arm, is urged against the stem 314 of the valve cartridge assembly 31 1 that is disposed within the valve body 306, as best seen in Figure 4.

Attached to the second end 324 of the arm 316 is the float 326. This may be hollow, such as the embodiment of Figure 1, or configured as a solid, either partially or fully, block of buoyant material, such as that shown in Figures 2 to 4. With regard to the float shown in Figure 1, being a hollow structure can be helpful for packaging and shipping purposes for delivery as it can help reduce weight. However, as previously noted some weight is desired so that in use, there is sufficient leverage to open the valve cartridge assembly 31 1 and allow water flow therethrough. Therefore this example of the float includes a fitting 332 for a hose (not shown). This may allow for the administration of some water into the float, to control its relative buoyancy and partially submerge it. In some instances, other weighting material may be used, for example sand. Without this weighting, the float may suffer a high degree of bounce in response to rapid movement of water levels as may occur when persons are in the swimming pool.

The relative height of the float 326 relative to the arm 316 may be adjusted through the use of a fastener mechanism 328 which may be loosened, moved along a slot 330 centrally provided to the arm to the desired height, and then tightened. This allows the user to easily set the preferred water level within the body of water. This is best understood from Figures 5A and 5B respectively.

In Figure 5A, the float 326 has been affixed close to the bottom end of the slot 330 of the arm 316, while in Figure 5B, the float 326 is secured close to the top end of the slot 330 of the arm 316. The arrangement of Figure 5A may be preferred when large variations in the water level of the swimming pool (not shown) is expected. Conversely, when it is preferable to closely regulate the water level, i.e. have minimal variation, the arrangement of Figure 5B may be preferred since it will only allow a relatively small range of movement before the valve is closed/open.

The fastener mechanism may be configured such that some rotational movement of the float relative to same is allowed. This could be useful in the embodiments of Figures 5A and 5B since this may allow the float, depicting a fish, to always be orientated in the same horizontal plane, regardless of the water level.

Referring now back to Figures 2 to 4, in use, the arm 316 with its attached float 326 hangs generally downwards over an edge of the swimming pool with which the invention is to be used. It will be appreciated that the relative angle of the arm may vary depending on the water level therein, since the float mounted to the arm will follow or otherwise be responsive to the water level. When the body of water has a water level that is lower than desired, the angle of the arm 316 is at or close to the vertical. This means that the biasing surface 322 is urged against the stem 314 of the valve cartridge assembly 311 located within the valve body 306. This in turn applies sufficient force to urge the head 314a of the stem away from the O-ring 312, permitting water flow through the passage of the valve body.

As the water level in the body of water increases, the angle of the arm 316 gradually moves away from the vertical, thereby easing the biasing force applied to the stem 314. This affects the flow rate of the incoming water, gradually reducing it as the force applied by the spring to the moveable diaphragm exceeds that applied to the stem. Once the desired water level has been reached, the angle of the arm is such that no force is applied to the stem, and the head 314a of same bears against the O-ring 312, and as such is in a sealing position that closes off the passage, preventing further water flow through the valve body 306.

The invention is advantageous as once the supply of water to a water body is turned on, it provides an automatically operated apparatus to regulate the level of water therein. Furthermore, the apparatus may be visually appealing or is better able to blend in with its environment.

Other Remarks

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words "comprise", "comprising", and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense, that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to".

The entire disclosures of all applications, patents and publications cited above, if any, are herein incorporated by reference.

Reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that that prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour in any country in the world.

The technology may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features.

Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to integers or components having known equivalents thereof, those integers are herein incorporated as if individually set forth.

It should be noted that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims and without diminishing the attendant advantages of the invention. It is therefore intended that such changes and modifications be included within the present claims.

Claims

8. CLAIMS What we claim is:

1 . An apparatus for controlling flow of a fluid, wherein the apparatus includes: a valve assembly, wherein the valve assembly includes: a valve including a passage therethrough for a fluid; a float for the valve; and a mounting portion, wherein the mounting portion is configured with a fitting to receive a supply of fluid from a hose and is communicative with the passage; a hollow shell, wherein the hollow shell includes: a first end, wherein the first end is configured to receive a portion of the hose; a second end, wherein the second end is configured to receive the mounting portion of the valve assembly; and an underside configured with a cavity, wherein the cavity is at least partially defined by part of the mounting portion of the valve assembly, and wherein the fitting for the supply of fluid is positioned within the cavity.

2. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the valve includes a valve body, the passage extending therethrough, and a valve cartridge assembly.

3. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the valve includes an O-ring on a seating surface within the passage of the valve body.

4. The apparatus as claimed in claim 3, wherein the valve cartridge assembly of the valve includes a surface that seals against the passage and/or seating surface of the valve body.

5. The apparatus as claimed in either claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the valve cartridge assembly includes a valve stem, wherein the surface that seals against the passage and/or seating surface of the valve body is a head provided to the valve stem.

6. The apparatus as claimed in claim 5, wherein the valve stem is urged by a spring against the passage and/or seating surface of the valve body.

7. The apparatus as claimed in any one or claims 1 to 6, wherein the valve assembly includes an arm having a first end and a second end.

8. The apparatus as claimed in claim 7, wherein the first end of the arm is pivotally mounted or otherwise connected to the mounting portion.

9. The apparatus as claimed in claim 8, wherein when the arm is in a first configuration, the passage is open to allow flow of the fluid therethrough and when the arm is in a second configuration, the passage is closed to prevent or at least substantially reduce flow of the fluid therethrough.

10. The apparatus as claimed in claim 9, wherein the first end of the arm includes a surface that, in use, bears against a portion of the valve when in the second configuration thereby closing the passage therethrough.

1 1 . The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the float is mounted or otherwise connected to the second end of the arm.

12. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the first end of the hollow shell includes a cut out or recess configured to receive a portion of the hose supplying fluid to the valve assembly.

13. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the second end of the hollow shell is configured with one or more slots configured to be complementary to one or more edges of the mounting portion of the valve assembly.

14. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the second end of the hollow shell is configured with an open section configured to receive the mounting portion in a push-fit or interlocking fit.

15. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the hollow shell is provided with a closure mechanism that permits access to an interior of the hollow shell.

16. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the hollow shell is configured with a substantially dome-like or hemispherical external profile in a side view, wherein the profile has an arcuate or contoured upper surface and a substantially flat surface.

17. The apparatus as claimed in claim 16, wherein, in use, the flat surface of said profile sits on a substrate adjacent to a body of water.

18. The apparatus as claimed in claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the upper surface of the hollow shell is configured or contoured with an aesthetically pleasing finish.

19. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the upper surface of the hollow shell is configured or contoured to represent a natural feature of a sea, freshwater, forestjungle or alpine environment.

20. The apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein at least a portion of one or more of: a) the valve; b) the float for the valve; and c) the mounting portion is configured or contoured to complement the appearance of the hollow shell.

21. The apparatus as claimed in claim 19, wherein the natural feature is at least a portion of one or more of: a) an aquatic animal; b) a rock or boulder; or c) part of a plant.

22. A method of controlling flow of fluid to a body of water, the method including the steps of: a) placing the apparatus as claimed any one of claims 1 to 21 proximate the body of water such that the hollow shell is adjacent the body of water and the float of the valve is in or above the body of water; and b) connecting a hose for a supply of fluid to the fitting of the mounting portion of the apparatus.

23. The method as claimed in claim 22, wherein the hose is connected to a source of water.

24. The method as claimed in either claim 22 or claim 23, wherein the body of water is a swimming pool or pond.