Spa cover lift system

Abstract

Apparatus for aiding removal and replacement of a spa cover. The apparatus includes at least one lifting assembly secured relative to the spa tub, each having a lifting arm mounted for rotation relative to the spa tub and including a cover-engaging end coupled to the spa cover and a pivot end mounted for pivotal movement about a pivot axis. The lifting arm is rotatable through a range of motion about the pivot axis between a covering position and an uncovering position. A lifting system is provided for exerting a lifting force on the arm tending to lift the arm as the arm moves from the covering position toward the uncovering position, and for exerting a resistance force on the arm tending to resist movement of the arm from the uncovering position toward the covering position. The lifting system includes a link lever having a pivot end pivotally mounted to the lift arm at a link pivot location disposed between the arm pivot end and the cover-engaging end. A slider end of the link lever is constrained for sliding movement along a slider path of travel. A spring structure is connected to the link lever at a spring pivot location between the link lever pivot end and the slider end. The spring structure is also connected to the lift arm at a spring connection point, and is under compression when the lift arm is at the covering location.