ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT UPPER DECK SYSTEM AND METHOD

Abstract

An adjustable height boat includes a lower deck and an upper deck, movable relative to the lower deck. The upper deck is configured to support one or more passengers and facilitates movement of the passengers in an upright position. The adjustable height boat include a plurality of telescopic support legs. In one embodiment, the plurality of telescopic support legs includes four columns having actuators therein, which are configured to extend and retract in response to signals received from a controller to move the upper deck from a first position in which the upper deck is a first height above the lower deck and a second position in which the upper deck is a second height above the lower deck.

Description

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to a boat, and in particular, to a system and method for adjusting the height of an upper deck of the boat.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

A conventional boat may include a lower deck for supporting seating, electronics, passengers, or other cargo and an upper deck positioned above the lower deck. In conventional boats, the upper deck is fixed relative to the lower deck. The fixed nature of the upper deck is problematic for storage, navigation, and transportation of conventional boats. For example, during storage, navigation, or transportation the upper deck of a conventional boat may prevent the boat from being positionable in a designated location such as a garage, transportation unit, or boat lift. Further, the fixed upper deck may prevent the boat from passing through certain waterways, such as those having a bridge, tree limb, or other height-limiting obstruction.

Other conventional boats have towers or poles suitable only for adjusting the height of Bimini tops or other structures that are insufficiently configured for supporting, stabilizing, and allowing free movement of passengers, especially more than two passengers in upright or standing positions. For example, passengers cannot walk or dance on conventional adjustable boat structures.

Therefore, what is needed is an upper deck for a boat having an adjustable height relative to a lower deck, which stabilizes and supports more than two passengers and allows free movement for such passengers in upright or standing positions.

SUMMARY

In an illustrative embodiment, an adjustable height boat comprises a lower deck; a first column and a second column, each positioned toward a rearward end of the boat and extending upward from the lower deck; a third column and a forth column, each positioned forward of the first column and the second column and extending upward from the lower deck; an upper deck supported by the first column, the second column, the third column, and the forth column. The upper deck is movable from a first position in which the upper deck is a first height above the lower deck and a second position in which the upper deck is a second height above the lower deck. In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat is a toon boat.

In some embodiments, the first column and the second column are spaced apart a first distance from each other in a lateral direction; the third column and the forth column are spaced apart a second distance from each other in the lateral direction the first column and the second column are spaced apart a third distance from the third column and the fourth column in a fore-aft direction.

In some embodiments, the first column, second column, third column, and forth column are each configured to extend and retract to move the upper deck between the first position and the second position. In some embodiments, the first column and the second column are each spaced a first distance from a bow of the boat; and the third column and the forth column are each spaced a second distance from the bow of the boat. In some embodiments, the upper deck includes a walkable surface that is continuous, planar, and configured to support a passenger in an upright position.

In some embodiments, a length of the walkable surface is at least 20% of a length of the adjustable height boat defined from a bow to a stern. In some embodiments, the walkable surface is rectangular. In some embodiments, a length of the walkable surface, which is defined in a direction from a bow to a stern of the adjustable height boat, is greater than a width of the walkable surface, which is defined in a lateral direction perpendicular to the direction from the bow to the stern. In some embodiments, the walkable surface is configured to support at least three passengers.

In some embodiments, the upper deck includes a first side rail and a second rail positioned on opposite side of the walkable surface and each extending along an entirety of the walkable surface. In some embodiments, the upper deck includes a front rail positioned at a front portion of the walkable surface and a rear rail positioned at a rear portion of the walkable surface.

In some embodiments, the walkable surface is substantially parallel to a floor of the lower deck when the upper deck is in the first position and the second position. In some embodiments, when viewed in a side view, the first column, the second column, the third column, and the fourth column are each perpendicular to the walkable surface when the upper deck is in the first position and the second position. In some embodiments, when viewed in a rear view, the first column, the second column, the third column, and the fourth column are each perpendicular to the walkable surface when the upper deck is in the first position and the second position.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat further comprises first, second, third, and fourth actuators positioned in the first, the second, the third, and the fourth columns, respectively. Each actuator is configured to extend and retract to move the upper deck between the first position and the second position. In some embodiments, when viewed in a side view, the first actuator, the second actuator, the third actuator, and the fourth actuator are each perpendicular to the walkable surface when the upper deck is in the first position and the second position.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat further includes at least one sensor configured to detect obstructions exterior to the upper deck, and a controller configured to receive signals from the at least one sensor indicative of detected obstructions. The controller is configured to cause extension or retraction of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth actuators in response to the signals received from the at least one sensor.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat further comprises: at least one sensor positioned on the upper deck and configured to detect obstructions exterior to the upper deck; and the upper deck is movable automatically from the first position and the second position in response to an indication of detected obstructions from the at least one sensor. In the illustrative embodiment, the at least one sensor is configured to detect obstructions in a direction of travel of the adjustable height boat.

In some embodiments, the first column, second column, third column, and forth column are each configured to pivot relative to at least one of the upper deck and the lower deck to move the upper deck from the first position and the second position.

In another illustrative embodiment, a telescoping upper deck assembly for an adjustable height boat includes a first column and a second column spaced apart a first distance from each other in a lateral direction and a third column and a forth column spaced apart a second distance from each other in the lateral direction. The first column and the second column are spaced apart a third distance from the third column and the fourth column in a fore-aft direction. An upper deck is supported by the first column, the second column, the third column, and the forth column. The first column, the second column, the third column, and the fourth column each include a moveable section, a fixed section, and an actuator positioned within the moveable section and the fixed section, wherein the upper deck is movable relative to the fixed section of each of the first column, the second column, the third column, and the fourth column via extension and retraction of each actuator.

In one embodiment, there is provided an adjustable height boat including a lower deck, an upper deck, and a plurality of telescopic support legs each of which extends and retracts. Each of the telescopic support legs have one end operatively connected to the lower deck and another end operatively connected to the upper deck, wherein an extension of the plurality of telescopic support legs raises the upper deck with respect to the lower deck and a retraction of the plurality of telescopic support legs lowers the upper deck with respect to the lower deck. The upper deck is movable from a first position, in which the upper deck is a first height above the lower deck, and a second position, in which the upper deck is a second height above the lower deck.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat includes wherein the plurality of telescopic support legs have a first column and a second column, each positioned toward a rearward end of the boat and extending upward from the lower deck. A third column and a forth column are each positioned forward of the first column and the second column and extend upward from the lower deck.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat includes wherein the first column and the second column are spaced apart a first distance from each other in a lateral direction. The third column and the forth column are spaced apart a second distance from each other in the lateral direction. The first column and the second column are spaced apart a third distance from the third column and the fourth column in a fore-aft direction.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat includes wherein the upper deck includes a walkable surface that is flat, continuous, planar and configured to support a passenger in an upright position.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat includes wherein a length of the walkable surface is at least 20% of a length of the adjustable height boat defined from a bow to a stern of the adjustable height boat.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat includes wherein the upper deck includes a first side rail and a second rail positioned on opposite sides of the walkable surface and each extending along an entirety of the walkable surface, and a front rail positioned at a front portion of the walkable surface.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat includes wherein when viewed in a side view, the first column, the second column, the third column, and the fourth column are each perpendicular to the walkable surface when the upper deck is in the first position and the second position.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat further includes first, second, third, and fourth actuators positioned in the first, the second, the third, and the fourth columns, respectively, wherein each actuator is configured to extend and retract to move the upper deck between the first position and the second position.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat includes at least one sensor configured to detect obstructions exterior to the upper deck and a controller. The controller is configured to receive signals from the at least one sensor indicative of detected obstructions, wherein the controller is configured to cause extension or retraction of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth actuators in response to the signals received from the at least one sensor.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat includes a ladder having a first end and a second end, operatively connected to the lower deck and spaced from the first end. A track system is operatively connected to the upper deck and operatively connected to the first end of the ladder, wherein the track system adjusts a position of the first end of the ladder with respect to the deck in response to the upper deck being raised or lowered.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat includes wherein the ladder includes a first section including the first end of the ladder and a second section including the second end of the ladder. The first section is rotatably connected to the second section and the first section rotates with respect to the second section in response to the upper deck being raised and lowered.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat includes wherein the track system includes a track bracket having a slot and the first end of the ladder slidingly engages the slot in response to the upper deck being raised and lowered.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat further includes a first siderail fixedly connected to the upper deck and a second siderail rotatably coupled to the upper deck and to the first siderail, the second siderail having a raised position and a lowered position.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat includes a backrest rotatably coupled to the upper deck and movable between a plurality of inclined positions and the second siderail includes a siderail plate to fix the backrest in one of the plurality of inclined positions.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat includes wherein the side rail plate includes a plurality of plate apertures and the backrest includes a backrest aperture, wherein alignment of the backrest aperture with one of plurality of plate apertures locates the backrest at one of the plurality of inclined positions.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat further includes a slide fixedly coupled to the upper deck, wherein the extension and retraction of the plurality of telescopic support legs raises and lower the slide with respect to the lower deck.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat further includes a slide support structure operatively connected to the slide and to an underneath portion of the upper deck, wherein a first end of the slide is fixedly connected to the upper deck and the slide support structure is fixedly coupled to the slide.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat further includes a plurality of gear hooks, wherein each of the plurality of gear hooks is coupled to the slide support structure.

In some embodiments, the adjustable height boat includes wherein the adjustable height boat is a toon boat.

In an additional embodiment, there is provided a telescoping upper deck assembly for an adjustable height boat including a first column and a second column spaced apart a first distance from each other in a lateral direction. A third column and a forth column are spaced apart a second distance from each other in the lateral direction and wherein the first column and the second column are spaced apart a third distance from the third column and the fourth column in a fore-aft direction. An upper deck is supported by the first column, the second column, the third column, and the forth column, wherein the first column, the second column, the third column, and the fourth column each include a moveable section, a fixed section, and an actuator positioned within the moveable section and the fixed section. The upper deck is movable relative to the fixed section of each of the first column, the second column, the third column, and the fourth column via extension and retraction of each actuator.

In a further embodiment, there is provided a method of operating a telescoping upper deck assembly for an adjustable height boat. The method includes: receiving, via a controller, an instruction to move an upper deck of the adjustable height boat from: (i) a first position in which the upper deck is a first height above a lower deck of the adjustable height boat and (ii) a second position in which the upper deck is a second height above the lower deck of the adjustable height boat; and sending signals from the controller to first, second, third, and fourth actuators, which are positioned within first, second, third, and fourth columns, respectively, that cooperate to support the upper deck above the lower deck, the signals causing movement of the upper deck from the first position to the second position based on the instruction received via the controller.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above-mentioned aspects of the present disclosure and the manner of obtaining them will become more apparent and the disclosure itself will be better understood by reference to the following description of the embodiments of the disclosure, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a boat having four columns configured to extend and retract to adjust the height of an upper deck relative to a lower deck, and FIG. 1 shows a ladder having an adjustable height and a sensor positioned on the upper deck;

FIG. 2 is a side view of the boat of FIG. 1 showing the upper deck at a first height;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the boat of FIGS. 1 and 2 showing the upper deck at a second height that is lesser than the first height;

FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic view of a column of FIGS. 1-3, showing an actuator positioned therein and configured to extend and retract with the column;

FIG. 5 is a side view of a boat similar to FIG. 1, wherein the columns are configured to pivot relative to the upper deck and the lower deck to adjust the height of the upper deck relative to the lower deck, and FIG. 5 shows the upper deck a first height;

FIG. 6 is a side view of the boat of FIG. 5 showing the upper deck at a second height that is lesser than the first height;

FIG. 7 is a side view of a boat similar to FIG. 1, wherein the columns have been replaced by a scissor lift including two arms each having at least first and second struts pivotable relative to each other and relative to the upper deck and the lower deck to adjust the height of the upper deck relative to the lower deck, and FIG. 7 shows the upper deck a first height;

FIG. 8 is a side view of the boat of FIG. 7 showing the upper deck at a second height that is lesser than the first height;

FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic view of a control system usable to control the height of the upper deck relative to the lower deck based on signals received from the sensor or a user interface;

FIG. 10 is a side view of a folding siderail system coupled to an upper deck of a boat;

FIG. 11 is side view a ladder system having a ladder with handrails defining handholds coupled to an upper deck and a lower deck of a boat; and

FIG. 12 is a slide system that extends from an aft side of an upper deck of a boat.

Corresponding reference numerals are used to indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The embodiments of the present disclosure described below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may appreciate and understand the principles and practices of the present disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 1 of the present disclosure, an embodiment of an adjustable height boat 100 is shown. It should be appreciated that this disclosure is applicable to various types of boats including pontoon boats, tritoon boats, ski boats, wakeboard boats, runabout boats, bowrider boats, fishing boats, deck boats, houseboats, dinghy boats, center console boats, sedan bridge boats, catamaran boats, cuddy cabins boats, trawler boats, game boats, cabin cruiser boats, motor yacht boats, jet boats. The adjustable height boat 100 in FIG. 1 is embodied as a pontoon boat, tritoon boat, or boat having any number of toons. Such boats are referred to, collectively, herein as toon boats. Toon boats are different from ski boats, wakeboard boats, runabout boats, bowrider boats, and the like in that certain tower structures tend to serve an aesthetic purpose on ski boats, wakeboard boats, runabout boats, bowrider boats, and the like, which is inapplicable to toon boats.

The boat 100 includes a lower deck 102 and an upper deck 104 that is positioned above the lower deck 102. The boat 100 further includes four columns referred to as a first column 106, a second column 108, a third column 110, and a fourth column 112. This is different from conventional adjustable height boats having only two columns. The additional columns provide additional support and stability, which are often sacrificed in conventional boats to reserve space for seating, storage, and other cargo. The columns 106, 108, 110, 112 cooperate to support the upper deck 104 above the lower deck 102. Further, the columns 106, 108, 110, 112 are automatically adjustable to move the upper deck 104 relative to the lower deck 102. This is different from conventional adjustable height boats and other structures having manually adjustable columns.

In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the first column 106 and the second column 108 are spaced apart a first distance from each other in a lateral direction, which is indicated by the arrow 114. The third column 110 and the forth column 112 are spaced apart a second distance from each other in the lateral direction 114. In the illustrative embodiment, the first distance and the second distance are equal to provide additional stability to upper deck 104; however, in other embodiments, the first distance and the second distance may differ from one another to accommodate seating, storage, or other structures. In the illustrative embodiment, the first column 106 and the second column 108 are spaced apart a third distance from the third column 110 and the fourth column 112 in a fore-aft direction indicated by the arrow 116. In the illustrative embodiment, the third distance is different from the second distance and the first distance; however, in other embodiments, the third distance may be equal to the second distance and the first distance to accommodate seating, storage, or other structures and/or to provide additional stability to upper deck 104.

The boat 100 includes a bow 118 and a stern 120. As shown in FIG. 1, the first column 106 and the second column 108 are each spaced a first distance from the bow 118 of the boat 100, and the third column 110 and the forth column 112 are each spaced a second distance from the bow 118 of the boat 100.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, the upper deck 104 includes a top surface 122, which may be referred to as a walkable surface 122 due to its function. The walkable surface 122 is suitable for three or more passengers to stand and walk on. To that point, in the illustrative embodiment, the walkable surface 122 is continuous, smooth, planar, and configured to support three or more passengers in an upright position as well as facilitate passenger movement when those passengers in an upright position. This is different from conventional adjustable height boats, which do not facilitate standing or walking, especially not of three or more passengers. The walkable surface 122 must be large to facilitate such actions of three or more passengers. For example, in some embodiments, a length of the walkable surface 122 is between 10-30% of a length of the boat 100, with the length of the adjustable height boat 100 being defined from the bow 118 to the stern 120. In the illustrative embodiment, the length of the walkable surface 122 is at least 20% of the length of the boat 100 to provide the maximum available space to passengers on the upper deck 104 without interfering with seating, storage, or other components positioned on the lower deck 102. In some embodiments, the length of the walkable surface 122 is greater than a width of the walkable surface 122. In the illustrative embodiment, the walkable surface 112 is rectangular, matching a footprint of the portion of the lower deck 102 positioned below. The rectangular shape maximizes available space to passengers on the upper deck 104 without interfering with seating, storage, or other components positioned on the lower deck 102.

The upper deck 104 includes several rails that at least partially surround the walkable surface 122. In an illustrative embodiment, the rails are at least 24 inches (and preferably 36 inches) in height above the walkable surface 122, as such, rails are advantageous since the boat 100 includes the top surface 122 that supports passengers in an upright position and facilitates passenger movement in the upright position. As shown in FIG. 1, the upper deck 104 includes a front rail 124 positioned at a front portion of the walkable surface 122 and a rear rail 126 positioned at a rear portion of the walkable surface 122. The upper deck 104 further includes a first side rail 128 and a second rail 130 positioned on opposite sides of the walkable surface 122. In the illustrative embodiment, each side rail 128, 130 extends along an entirety of a respective side of the walkable surface 122.

FIG. 4 shows an embodiment having an actuator 132 positioned in the first column 106. It should be appreciated that in such embodiments, like actuators 152, 154, 156 are positioned in each column 108, 110, 112; therefore, description regarding the actuator 132 and surrounding components is equally applicable to the actuators 152, 154156 positioned in each column 106, 108, 110, 112. The actuator 132 includes a fixed portion 136 (e.g., a cylinder) and a moveable portion 138 (e.g., a rod). In some embodiments, the locations of the fixed portion 136 and the moveable portion 138 of the actuator 132 are reversed. In the illustrative embodiment, the actuator 132 is attached at the fixed portion 136 to the lower deck 102 and at the moveable portion 138 to the upper deck 104. In other embodiments, the actuator 132 is attached directly to the column 106 (and not the upper deck 104 and lower deck 102), and the column 106 is in turn attached directly to the upper deck 104 and the lower deck 102. Each column 106, 108, 110, 112 includes a fixed portion 140 and at least one moveable portion 142. In the illustrative embodiment, the at least one moveable portion include an upper section 144 and a lower section 146.

The actuators 132, 152, 154, 156 positioned in each column 106, 108, 110, 112 (and the columns themselves 106, 108, 110, 112) are configured to extend and retract to move the upper deck 104 from a first position (shown in FIG. 2) in which the upper deck 104 is a first height above the lower deck 102 to a second position (shown in FIG. 3) in which the upper deck 104 is a second height above the lower deck 102. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, in the illustrative embodiment, when viewed in a side view, the columns 106, 108, 110, 112 extend upright from the lower deck 102 substantially perpendicular to the walkable surface 122. The columns 106, 108, 110, 112 are substantially perpendicular to the walkable surface 122 when the upper deck 104 is in the first position and when the upper deck 104 is in the second position. As shown in FIG. 4, in the illustrative embodiment, when viewed in a side view, actuators 132, 152, 154, 156 positioned in each column 106, 108, 110, 112 are substantially perpendicular to the walkable surface 122. As shown in FIG. 4, the actuator 132 is a linear actuator and is arranged substantially perpendicular to the walkable surface 122 when the upper deck 104 is in the first position and in the second position.

In some embodiments, components substantially parallel or perpendicular to each other may be described as parallel or perpendicular to account for manufacturing tolerances, wear and tear, or other inconsequential differentiations. As such, the use of one term is meant to all encompass the other.

As suggested by FIGS. 2-3, when viewed in a rear view, the first column 106, the second column 108, the third column 110, and the fourth column 112 are each perpendicular to the walkable surface 122 when the upper deck 104 is in the first position and the second position. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the walkable surface 122 is substantially parallel to a top surface or floor 134 of the lower deck 102 when the upper deck 104 is in the first position and the second position. The substantially parallel arrangement of the walkable surface 122 relative to the floor 134 is advantageous to facilitate stability and walkability for passenger on the walkable surface 122, as a sloped surface would cause balance and maneuverability concerns.

Referring again to FIGS. 1-3, the adjustable height boat 100 includes a sensor 148. In the illustrative embodiment, the sensor 148 is positioned on the upper deck 104. In some embodiments, the sensor 148 may be positioned on an underside of the upper deck 104 to prevent contact therewith from passengers moving about the upper deck 104. In some embodiments, the sensor 148 is positioned on the uppermost portion of the upper deck 104. In the illustrative embodiment, the sensor 148 is a camera.

The sensor 148 is configured to detect obstructions exterior to the upper deck 104. In other words, the sensor 148 is configured to detect obstructions that would contact the upper deck 104 if the boat 100 were to continue traveling toward the obstruction. Thus, the sensor 148 is configured to detect obstructions in a direction of travel of the boat 100. For example, if the boat 100 is traveling in the forward direction or the rearward direction, the sensor 148 may detect obstructions that would contact the upper deck 104 if the boat 100 were to continue traveling in that direction with the upper deck 104 positioned at its current height relative to the lower deck 102. For example, the sensor 148 may detect bridges, upper platforms of docks, boathouses, garage doors, tree limbs, or other obstructions. The sensor 148 may be operable when the boat 100 is trailered or on water. In some embodiments, the sensor 148 may be replaced by a plurality of sensors having one more of the functions described above with regard to the sensor 148.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a control system 160 is shown. The control system 160 includes the sensor 148, a controller 150, the actuators 132, 152, 154, 156 positioned in each column 106, 108, 110, 112, and a user interface 158. The sensor 148, the actuators 132, 152, 154, 156, and the user interface 158 are each operatively coupled to the controller 150. The sensor 148 is configured to detect obstructions exterior to the upper deck 104 and send signals to the controller 150 indicative of the detected obstructions. The controller 150 is configured to receive signals from the sensor 148 indicative of detected obstructions.

In some embodiments, subsequent to receipt of the signals from the sensor 148, the controller 150 is configured to compare a height of the detected obstruction to a current height of the upper deck 104. If the controller 150 determines that the upper deck 104 has an equal or greater height than the detected obstruction, then in response, the controller 150 sends a signal to the actuators 132, 152, 154, 156 causing retraction thereof to lower the upper deck 104 and reduce an overall height of the boat 100 to avoid a collision with the obstruction. Such retraction, for example, moves the upper deck 104 automatically from the first position to the second position.

In some embodiments, when the controller 150 receives an indication from the sensor 148 that the sensor 148 has detected an obstruction, the controller 150 sends a signal to the actuators 132, 152, 154, 156 causing retraction thereof without the need for a comparison step. Such embodiments are efficient and practical if the sensor 148 is positioned at an uppermost portion of the upper deck 104 and aimed parallel to the surface 122 of the upper deck 104, for example, such that any detection by the sensor 148 of an obstruction requires a reduction in height of the upper deck 104 to avoid a collision between the upper deck 104 and the obstruction. Such retraction, for example, moves the upper deck 104 automatically from the first position to the second position.

In some embodiments, a user may provide input to the user interface 158 regarding a desired height or a desired change in height of the upper deck 104. For example, the user may input a desired height value or actuate one or more buttons, switches, sliders, dials, or the like associated with a change in height of the upper deck 104. In response to receipt of the user input, the user interface 158 sends a signal to the controller 150 instructing the controller 150 to adjust the height of the upper deck 148. In response to receipt of the instructions from the user interface 158, the controller 150 sends signals to the actuators 132, 152, 154, 156 causing extension or retraction thereof based on the instructions received from the user interface 158. Such extension or retraction moves the upper deck 104 automatically from the first position and the second position.

Referring now to FIG. 5, in some embodiments, an adjustable height boat 200 includes columns 206, 208, which are pivotably coupled to an upper deck 204 and a lower deck 202. It should be appreciated that the columns 206, 208 are columns on a first side of the boat 200, and the boat 200 further includes identical columns on its opposite side. It should be appreciate that description herein regarding the column 206 is equally applicable to column 208 and the identical columns on the opposite side of the boat 200. An upper pivot joint 210 is coupled at top end of the column 206 to the upper deck 204, and a lower pivot joint 212 is coupled at a bottom end of the column 206 to the lower deck 202. The columns of this embodiment are pivotable relative to the upper deck 204 and the lower deck 202 to move the upper deck 204 from a first position (FIG. 5) in which the upper deck 204 is at a first height relative to the lower deck 202 and a second position (FIG. 6) in which the upper deck 204 is at a second height relative to the lower deck 202. While the upper deck 204 shown in FIG. 6 is positioned rearward of the upper deck 204 shown in FIG. 5, in some embodiments, the upper deck 204 pivots forward relative to its position in FIG. 5. In some embodiments, the boat 200 includes four actuators, wherein each actuator is coupled to one of the four columns to cause pivoting motion thereof relative to the upper deck 204 and the lower deck 202. In some embodiments, the actuators are included in the pivot joints. In the illustrative embodiment, the actuators may be operatively coupled to a controller, which is in turn operatively coupled to at least one of a sensor and a user interface. Based on signals received from the sensor or the user interface (as described in other embodiments herein) the controller is configured to adjust the actuators to adjust the height of the upper deck 204.

Referring now to FIG. 6, in some embodiments, an adjustable height boat 300 includes a lift 306, which may be referred to as a scissor lift. In the illustrative embodiment, a portion of the lift 306 is pivotably coupled to an upper deck 304 and a lower deck 302. It should be appreciated the lift 306 is a lift on a first side of the boat 300, and the boat 300 further includes an identical lift on its opposite side. It should be appreciate that description herein regarding the lift 306 is equally applicable to the lift on the opposite side of the boat 300. A pair of upper pivot joints 308, 310 are coupled at top end of the lift 306 to the upper deck 304, and a pair of lower pivot joints 312, 314 are coupled a bottom end of the lift 306 to the lower deck 302. The lifts of this embodiment each include at least two crossing struts (e.g., 316, 318) that are pivotable relative to each other and relative to the upper deck 304 and the lower deck 302 to move the upper deck 304 from a first position (FIG. 7) in which the upper deck 304 is at a first height relative to the lower deck 302 and a second position (FIG. 8) in which the upper deck 304 is at a second height relative to the lower deck 302. In some embodiments, the lift 306 is enclosed by a lift cover or casing, which may be a telescoping lift cover or casing, in which case the lift 306 may be referred to as a column. In some embodiments, the boat 300 includes two-four actuators, wherein each actuator is configured to cause pivoting motion of the struts 316, 318 relative to the upper deck 304 and the lower deck 302. In the illustrative embodiment, the actuators are operatively coupled to a controller, which is in turn operatively coupled to at least one of a sensor and a user interface. Based on signals received from the sensor and/or the user interface (as described in other embodiments herein), the controller is configured to adjust the actuators to adjust the height of the upper deck 304.

As shown in FIGS. 1-3 and 5-8, the boats 100, 200, 300 may include a ladder 170, 270, 370, respectively. As shown in the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, the ladder 170 may have telescoping legs. In such an embodiment, the ladder 170 may be embodied as a follower (with no dedicated actuator) or may include one or more actuators positioned within one or more legs of the ladder causing extension and retraction thereof. In such embodiments, the ladder 170 may cooperate with the columns 106, 108, 110, 112 to support and adjust the height of the upper deck 104. Thus, the one or more actuators of the ladder 170 may be operatively coupled to the controller 150 and configured to receive signals therefrom causing extension and retraction. In some embodiments, one or more columns 106, 108, 110, 112 may include rungs, steps, ledges, cutouts, cavities, or the like positioned thereon or formed therein, allowing the column to function as a ladder. As suggested in FIGS. 7-8, the ladder 370 may be structured and function the same as the ladder 170.

As shown in the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 5-6, the ladder 270 may be pivotable coupled to the upper deck 204 and the lower deck 202. In such an embodiment, the ladder 270 may be embodied as a follower (with no dedicated actuator) or may include one or more actuators. In such embodiments, the ladder 270 may cooperate with the columns to support and adjust the height of the upper deck 204. Thus, the one or more actuators of the ladder 270 may be operatively coupled to the controller and configured to receive signals therefrom causing pivoting motion of the ladder 270. It should be appreciated that the ladders 170, 270, 370 could be interchangeable, on the boats 100, 200, and 300.

FIG. 10 illustrates a folding siderail system 400 coupled to an upper deck 402 which defines sides of the deck 402 for a passenger 404. While one siderail system 400 is shown, both lateral sides of the upper deck 402 include a siderail system located along deck sides and alongside the passenger 404. The siderail system 400 includes a folding siderail 405 having a top rail 406 and a bottom rail 408. In one embodiment, the top rail 406 and the bottom rail 408 include tubes that extend longitudinally along the boat 100 in the direction 116 of FIG. 1. A first end 410 of the bottom rail 408 is coupled to the top rail 406 and a second end 412 of the bottom rail 408 is coupled to the top rail 406. A plurality of upright supports 414 connect the top rail 406 to the bottom rail.

The siderail 405 further includes a siderail plate 420 located at the first end 410 which provides structural support for the siderail 405 as well as providing support for a backrest 422 used to support the passenger 404 in a seated or inclined position. When the siderail 405 is located in an upright position, as illustrated, the backrest 422 is locatable in a plurality of inclined positions and which is fixed at one of the plurality of inclined positions with a threaded through hole knob 424. Once the backrest 422 is located in a desired position, the knob 424, which includes a threaded shaft, is inserted through a slot 426 located in the siderail plate 420. In one embodiment, the slot 426 includes locating apertures 427, which define individual locations through which the threaded shaft of the knob 424 is inserted. The threaded shaft is received by a female threaded aperture located in the backrest 422. Rotation of the knob into the backrest 422 fixes the backrest 422 in one of the plurality of inclined positions. The backrest 422 is rotatably coupled to the deck 402 through a backrest hinge 428 to enable movement of the backrest 422 along each of the plurality of positions, as well as to enable the backrest 422 to rest on the deck at a position generally parallel to the deck 402 surface.

The opposite siderail is configured like the siderail 405 and a second knob is inserted through the siderail plate to provide inclined support for the backrest 422. While a threaded knob 424 is described, other types of holding and/or locking mechanism are contemplated, including quick release clamps. In one embodiment, the backrest accommodates up to three (3) adults lying down.

The siderail 405 is movable between the upright position, as illustrated, and a folded position in which the siderail 405 is lowered to a position that is generally parallel to a surface of the deck 402. To move the siderail 405 from the upright position to the folded position, the knob 424 is removed from the backrest 422, which is then lowered to the position generally parallel to the deck 402. The siderail system 400 includes a first hinge 430 and second hinge 432 each of which is coupled to the deck 402 and to the bottom rail 408.

A third hinge 434 is coupled to the second end 412 of the siderail 405 and in particular is coupled to a another, or second siderail plate 436 which is disposed adjacent to the top rail 406 and the bottom rail 408. The third hinge 434, in one embodiment, is a cylindrical barrel hinge. A first cylinder 440, such as a tube, is fixedly coupled to the second siderail plate 436, and is rotatably coupled to a second cylinder 442. In one embodiment, the first cylinder 440 includes a diameter smaller or larger than a diameter of the second cylinder 442, such that the first cylinder 400 rotates with respect to the second cylinder 442. In another embodiment, the first cylinder 440 is rotatably coupled to the second cylinder 442 with a rotating hinge or a pivot hinge. Consequently, once the side plate 420 is decoupled from the backrest 422 and the backrest is moved to rest on the deck 402, the folding siderail 405 is rotatable about the first hinge 428, the second hinge 432, and the third hinge 434. In one embodiment, the second cylinder 442 is part of a fixed siderail 444. The third hinge 434, therefore, provides a continuous barrier between the fixed siderail 444 and the folding siderail 405 when the folding siderail 405 is in the upright position as well as in the lowered position. In another embodiment, the fixed siderail 444 is fixed to the upper deck 402 and the third hinge 434 is replaced a hinge coupled to the upper deck 402. In further embodiments, the number of hinges supporting the folding siderail 405 for movement is includes one or more hinges.

The upper deck may be lowered at the flip of a switch about thirty (30) inches for improved shipping, trailering, storability and accessibility if users encounter bridges while on the water. To improve clearance, the upper deck railings and lounge backrest may be folded flat against the floor to gain another fifteen (15) inches.

FIG. 11 illustrates another embodiment of a ladder system 450 having a ladder 452 with handrails 454 defining handholds 456. The ladder 452 includes a lower section 458 fixedly coupled to a lower deck 460 at a location 462 An upper section 464 is rotatably coupled to the lower section 458 at an intermediate location 466. In one embodiment, a hinge rotatably couples the upper section 464 to the lower portion 458. Ladder steps or ladder rungs are located between handrails as would be understood by one skilled in the art.

In one embodiment, the ladder 452 is an aluminum bi-fold ladder that auto locks. The top of the ladder is located at a track system that allows an upper ladder section 464 to slide and fold as the upper deck 402 is raised and lowered. No pins are required and do not need to be removed. In addition, no devices need to be unlocked to allow ladder to move when the upper deck is raise or lowered.

When the upper deck 402 is in a fully extended position, such as illustrated in FIG. 1, the ladder 452 is fully extended and the lower section 468 and the upper section 464 are generally aligned along a linear axis defined by the ladder 452 when fully extended. In this position, a lock, which is located at the intermediate location 466, locks the upper section 464 with the lower section 468 to fix the adjacent sections 464 and 468 together. In one embodiment, the lock includes an automatic lock what automatically locks when the upper deck 402 reaches the fully extended position and which automatically unlocks when the upper deck 402 is lowered.

The ladder 452, therefore, provides a unitary ladder having rigidity without relative movement between upper section 464 and lower section 468 to provide a stable condition to the user when climbing the ladder and when descending the ladder. A topmost part of the upper section 464 is located at a grab handle 470. The grab handle 470 is fixed to the upper deck 402 and provides a fixed and stable area for a passenger to move on to and off of the upper deck 402.

A track system 472 includes a track bracket 474 defining a slot 476. The track system 472, in one embodiment, includes two track brackets 474, each of which is generally located adjacent to or near one of the handrails 454. In this embodiment, top ends of the handrails 454 slidingly engage the slot 476 of each of the track brackets 474. In one embodiment, a roller or rollers 477 are coupled to the handrails 454 and/or the upper section 464 and engage a track defined by the track bracket 474. As seen in FIG. 11, a lock at intermediate location 466 is not locked and the upper section 464 slides along the slot 476 in one of two directions depending on whether the deck 402 is being raised or lowered.

FIG. 12 illustrates a slide system 480 that extends from an aft side 482 of the upper deck 402. The slide system 480 includes a slide 484 having a first end 486 that includes a sliding surface that starts generally at the same level as the surface of the upper deck 402. A slide support structure 488 is fixedly connected to the slide 484 and to an underneath side 490 of the upper deck 402. A first end 492 of the support structure 488 includes a base plate 494 to which a support bracket 496 is coupled. The slide support bracket 496 includes a first end 498 coupled to the base plate 494 and a second end 500 coupled to the slide 482 at a bottom portion of the slide 482.

The slide support bracket 496 includes a first plate 502 and second plate 504 that are coupled to the base plate 494. Each of the first plate 502 and second plate 504 extend from toward the aft end of the boat 100 and are inclined with respect to the planar surface of the upper deck 402. First and second tubes 506 and 508 are fixedly connected to respective first plate 502 and second plate 504. The first and second tubes 506 and 508 each include a bend 510 at which point the first and second tubes 506 and 508 extend toward the slide 482 in a position that is generally parallel to the surface of the deck 402. Each tube 506 and 508 is connected to the slide 482 at a middle portion of the slide 482.

A third tube 512 extends from the first tube 506 and a fourth tube 514 extends from the second tube 508. Portions of the third tube 512 and fourth tube 514 are generally inclined in the same fashion as first tube 506 and second tube 508. At a bend 516, each of the tubes 512 and 514 extend toward the slide 482 where tube ends are coupled to the slide 482. The support structure 488, when coupled to the slide 482, provides rigid support to enable users to slide from the upper deck 402 into the water with a minimum amount of or no slide movement or slide flexing. In this embodiment, the second end 482 of the slide 484 lacks any supporting structure between the second end 482 and the lower deck 460.

A plurality of gear hooks 520 are coupled to each of the third tube 512 and the fourth tube 514. The gear hooks 520 define a space 522 between the hook 520 and a surface of the tubes. The spaces 522 define a location in which wet gear, as well as dry gear, may be hung. The gear hooks 520 also define locations for hanging accessories.

The slide support bracket 496 bolts to the upper deck 402, which facilitates shipping. The completed slide system 480 allows for the upper deck 402 to be raised or lowered, but is incredibly strong and which does not require any connection to the lower deck for support. The slide system 480 provides a wet gear zone that includes the plurality of hooks. Due to the location beneath the slide, wet articles are located under the slide 482, out of the way, while still exposed to open air and sunshine.

While this disclosure has been described with respect to at least one embodiment, the present disclosure can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the disclosure using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this disclosure pertains and which fall within the limits of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An adjustable height boat, comprising: a lower deck;an upper deck;a plurality of telescopic support legs each of which extends and retracts, wherein each of the telescopic support legs have one end operatively connected to the lower deck and another end operatively connected to the upper deck, wherein an extension of the plurality of telescopic support legs raises the upper deck with respect to the lower deck and a retraction of the plurality of telescopic support legs lowers the upper deck with respect to the lower deck;wherein the upper deck is movable from a first position in which the upper deck is a first height above the lower deck and a second position in which the upper deck is a second height above the lower deck.

2. The adjustable height boat of claim 1 wherein the plurality of telescopic support legs include: a first column and a second column, each positioned toward a rearward end of the boat and extending upward from the lower deck; anda third column and a forth column, each positioned forward of the first column and the second column and extending upward from the lower deck.

3. The adjustable height boat of claim 2, wherein the first column and the second column are spaced apart a first distance from each other in a lateral direction;wherein the third column and the forth column are spaced apart a second distance from each other in the lateral direction;wherein the first column and the second column are spaced apart a third distance from the third column and the fourth column in a fore-aft direction.

4. The adjustable height boat of claim 1, wherein the upper deck includes a walkable surface that is flat, continuous, planar and configured to support a passenger in an upright position.

5. The adjustable height boat of claim 4, wherein a length of the walkable surface is at least 20% of a length of the adjustable height boat defined from a bow to a stern of the adjustable height boat.

6. The adjustable height boat of claim 5, wherein the upper deck includes a first side rail and a second rail positioned on opposite sides of the walkable surface and each extending along an entirety of the walkable surface, and a front rail positioned at a front portion of the walkable surface.

7. The adjustable height boat of claim 3, wherein when viewed in a side view, the first column, the second column, the third column, and the fourth column are each perpendicular to the walkable surface when the upper deck is in the first position and the second position.

8. The adjustable height boat of claim 3, further comprising first, second, third, and fourth actuators positioned in the first, the second, the third, and the fourth columns, respectively; wherein each actuator is configured to extend and retract to move the upper deck between the first position and the second position.

9. The adjustable height boat of claim 10, further comprising: at least one sensor configured to detect obstructions exterior to the upper deck; anda controller configured to receive signals from the at least one sensor indicative of detected obstructions, wherein the controller is configured to cause extension or retraction of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth actuators in response to the signals received from the at least one sensor.

10. The adjustable height boat of claim 1 further comprising: a ladder having a first end and a second end operatively connected to the lower deck and spaced from the first end; anda track system operatively connected to the upper deck and operatively connected to the first end of the ladder, wherein the track system adjusts a position of the first end of the ladder with respect to the deck in response to the upper deck being raised or lowered.

11. The adjustable height boat of claim 10 wherein the ladder includes a first section including the first end of the ladder and a second section including the second end of the ladder, wherein the first section is rotatably connected to the second section and the first section rotates with respect to the second section in response to the upper deck being raised and lowered.

12. The adjustable height boat of claim 11 wherein the track system includes a track bracket having a slot and the first end of the ladder slidingly engages the slot in response to the upper deck being raised and lowered.

13. The adjustable height boat of claim 1 further comprising: a first siderail fixedly connected to the upper deck; anda second siderail rotatably coupled to the upper deck and to the first siderail, the second siderail having a raised position and a lowered position.

14. The adjustable height boat of claim 13, further comprising a backrest rotatably coupled to the upper deck and movable between a plurality of inclined positions and the second siderail includes a siderail plate to fix the backrest in one of the plurality of inclined positions.

15. The adjustable height boat of claim 14 wherein the siderail plate includes a plurality of plate apertures and the backrest includes a backrest aperture, wherein alignment of the backrest aperture with one of plurality of plate apertures locates the backrest at one of the plurality of inclined positions.

16. The adjustable height boat of claim 1 further comprising: a slide fixedly coupled to the upper deck, wherein the extension and retraction of the plurality of telescopic support legs raises and lowers the slide with respect to the lower deck.

17. The adjustable height boat of claim 16 further comprising a slide support structure operatively connected to the slide and to an underneath portion of the upper deck, wherein a first end of the slide is fixedly connected to the upper deck and the slide support structure is fixedly coupled to the slide.

18. The adjustable height boat of claim 17 further comprising a plurality of gear hooks, wherein each of the plurality of gear hooks is coupled to the slide support structure.

19. The adjustable height boat of claim 1, wherein the adjustable height boat is a toon boat.

20. A telescoping upper deck assembly for an adjustable height boat, comprising: a first column and a second column spaced apart a first distance from each other in a lateral direction;a third column and a forth column spaced apart a second distance from each other in the lateral direction;wherein the first column and the second column are spaced apart a third distance from the third column and the fourth column in a fore-aft direction;an upper deck supported by the first column, the second column, the third column, and the forth column;wherein the first column, the second column, the third column, and the fourth column each include a moveable section, a fixed section, and an actuator positioned within the moveable section and the fixed section;wherein the upper deck is movable relative to the fixed section of each of the first column, the second column, the third column, and the fourth column via extension and retraction of each actuator.

21. A method of operating a telescoping upper deck assembly for an adjustable height boat, comprising: receiving, via a controller, an instruction to move an upper deck of the adjustable height boat from: (i) a first position in which the upper deck is a first height above a lower deck of the adjustable height boat and (ii) a second position in which the upper deck is a second height above the lower deck of the adjustable height boat; andsending signals from the controller to first, second, third, and fourth actuators, which are positioned within first, second, third, and fourth columns, respectively, that cooperate to support the upper deck above the lower deck, the signals causing movement of the upper deck from the first position to the second position based on the instruction received via the controller.