Patent Grant
7874529
This invention relates to a recreational accessory or device. More specifically this invention relates to recreational accessories and mounting assemblies adapted and configured for use therewith. By “recreational accessories” it is meant various objects, items, articles, and/or devices which are commonly used in recreational settings, although these items can serve non-recreational functions as well.
Recreational accessories can include, but are not limited to, tables, chairs, benches, storage platforms, storage boxes, coolers, grills, flags and flagpoles, lighting fixtures, trash receptacles, and/or others. Such recreational accessories are commonly used on piers, docks, decks, balconies, porches, etc. or upon or adjacent to other structures associated therewith. Unfortunately, some recreational accessories are relatively large, bulky, heavy, and/or cumbersome and the structures, such as piers, decks, stairs, etc. have limited usable surface areas. Accordingly, when using or storing recreational accessories upon such surfaces, the recreational accessory occupies some of the limited surface area thereof. Correspondingly, when a recreational accessory is stored or used on a pier, deck, stairs, etc., there is relatively less space and surface area for the users to move about. In addition, the recreational accessory can present trip hazards, other hazards, and/or other dangerous situations, to the users of such structures.
Also, there are occasions in which a user desires to use a plurality of recreational accessories simultaneously, or sequentially, whereby the user places more that one desired recreational accessory upon the pier, deck, stairs, etc. In so doing, the user further compromises the scarcity of the surface area of the structure or increases the hazards to those upon such structures.
Recreational accessories which extend outwardly beyond the perimeter of a pier, deck, stairs, etc. are typically supported by way of downwardly extending legs which extend downwardly from the accessory and into a lake-bottom or river-bottom when used in combination with a pier, or into a lawn or a landscaped surface when used in combination with a deck. The downwardly extending legs are particularly susceptible to damage, be it from oxidation or corrosion to the portion which is submerged under water, or from impact from such things as, depending on the particular application, boats, lawn mowers, pedestrians, and others.
Nevertheless, there are times when it is desirable to temporarily have a recreational accessory positioned over a structure. One example of this is when one is loading or unloading a cooler. However, most of the time, it is desirable to have the accessory removed from the surface of the structure so as to provide additional space for the people who will occupy the structure.
Therefore, there are times when it is desirable to provide a recreational accessory and mounting assembly, adapted and configured to generally not occupy any of the surface area of the structure. It is also desirable to provide a recreational accessory and mounting assembly which can be cantilevered outward beyond the perimeter of a structure.
Briefly, this invention relates to a recreational accessory and a corresponding mounting assembly. The recreational accessory and mounting assembly is adapted and configured for use in combination with a substrate. The substrate can be a pier, a dock, a deck, a porch, a staircase, etc. The mounting assembly is secured to the substrate and the recreational accessory is removably attached to the mounting assembly. In the complete assemblage, the mounting assembly is cantilevered outwardly beyond the perimeter of the substrate. Accordingly, the recreational accessory does not occupy any surface area of the substrate.
In one embodiment, the recreational accessory and mounting assembly includes a mounting mechanism secured to a substrate where the substrate is immobile, selectively immobile, mobile, or otherwise. The recreational accessory is movably mounted to the mounting mechanism such that the recreational accessory is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the recreational accessory is not superposed or aligned over the substrate, and in the second position, the recreational accessory is superposed or aligned over the substrate.
In a second embodiment, the recreational accessory and mounting assembly, includes a mounting mechanism mounted to a substrate. The substrate can be mobile, immobile, or be selectively immobile. The substrate also has an upper surface and an outermost edge surface. The recreational accessory mounted to the mounting mechanism can be cantilevered laterally outwardly beyond the outermost edge surface of the substrate.
In a third embodiment, the recreational accessory and mounting assembly includes a receiving member having an upper portion, a lower portion, and an opening which extends into at least one of the upper and lower portions. The opening extends into a cavity formed in a receiving member. The cavity has a length dimension, a width dimension, and a thickness dimension. An insertion plate having a length dimension, a width dimension, a front surface and a back surface with a thickness dimension; and an elongated neck attached to and extending generally outwardly from the front surface of the insertion plate; the insertion plate removably housed in the receiving member cavity.
The general object of this invention is to provide a recreational accessory and mounting assembly that will increase the useable space available on a substrate, such as pier, dock, deck, staircase, etc. A more specific object of this invention is to provide a recreational accessory and mounting assembly that can support or store items away from the surface area of the substrate.
Another object of this invention is to provide a recreational accessory and mounting assembly which is devoid of support or mounting structure which communicates with the ground, a lake-bottom, a river bottom, or elsewhere not connected to a pier, dock, deck, staircase, etc.
A further object of this invention is to provide a recreational accessory and mounting assembly which enable a user to move the recreational accessory, to different positions, with respect to the substrate without physically interfering with the upper surface of the structure.
Still further, an object of this invention is to provide a recreational accessory and mounting assembly which enable a user to removably attach the recreational accessory to the mounting assembly.
Still further, an object of this invention is to provide a recreational accessory and mounting assembly which enable a user to selectively exchange a first accessory for a second accessory upon a substrate without requiring the user to correspondingly exchange the mounting assembly used therewith.
Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the following description and the accompanying drawings.
Referring to
The substrate 14 can be formed from a variety of suitable materials, which include but are not limited to: concrete, brick, stone, masonry, wood, plywood, lumber, particle board, a metallic material such as metal, steel, aluminum, rubber, a polymeric material such as plastics, a composite formed from two or more materials, a closed cell foam, a hard foam, as well as other structural materials known to those skilled in the art.
The recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10 enable a person to install or attach a recreational accessory upon or to the substrate 14. The recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10 allows the usable surface area of the substrate 14 to be uninhibited. In other words, the recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10 present an insignificant or negligible footprint upon the usable surface area of the substrate 14 such that the substrate 14 retains essentially all of its usable surface area.
For clarity purposes only, the substrate 14 will be described as being a pier or a dock onto which the recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10 is attached. The pier or dock 14 includes an upper surface 16 and an outer surface 18 which is situated adjacent to the upper surface 16. The pier or dock 14 will commonly contain a plurality of pilings or structural members 20. The pilings or structural members 20 can be driven into the earth as a foundation or support for the pier or dock 14. In this case, the pilings or structural members 20 will extend down into the water and be pounded or driven into the bottom sediment of the body of water. Alternatively, the pier or dock can be floating on the water and will not contain any pilings. In still another alternative, the pier or dock 14 can be floating on the water and include pilings or structural members 20 that are not driven into the soil located below the water. For example, the pilings or structural members 20 will rest on the soil located beneath the water. Still further, the pier or dock 14 can be removably placed over the water and can rest on the water or the ground beneath the water if the water is only a few inches deep. Referring now to
The first portion 24 of the first member 22 is a generally rigid, planar, elongated member. The first portion 24 extends generally parallel to and along a portion of the upper surface 16 of the pier or dock 14. The first portion 24 has an upper surface, a lower surface, an inwardly facing edge and an outwardly facing edge.
The second portion 26 of the first member 22 is a generally rigid, planar, elongated member which extends generally parallel to and along a portion of an outer surface 18 of pier or dock 14. As shown, the second portion 26 extends downwardly from the first portion 24. The second portion 26 has an inwardly facing surface, and outwardly facing surface, an upper edge and a lower edge. The lower edge of the second portion 26 faces toward the water and the upper edge or a portion of the second portion 26 located adjacent to the upper edge, is attached to the outwardly facing edge of the first portion 24. Thus, the combination of the first portion 24 and the second portion 26 define an L-shaped profile for the first member 22.
Still referring to
As stated above, the second member 28 can be hollow and have a circumferential outer wall 30. The second member 28 is shown projecting upward and outward away from the pier or dock 14. Alternatively, the second member 28 could extend downward away from the upper surface 16 of the pier or dock 14. The second member 28 is adapted and configured to be easily and quickly removed and/or interchanged so as to allow or permit one or more recreational accessories 32 to be attached to it. The phrase “recreational accessory” is used herein to describe any item that one wishes to attach or secure to the pier or dock 14. The item itself does not have to be recreational in nature. Examples of recreational accessories 32 include but are not limited to a shelf, a table, a support, a storage box, a tray, a grill, a cooking apparatus, a lighting fixture, a light, a flagpole, a flag, a banner, a torch, a trash receptacle, etc.
Still referring to
The first end 34 of the second member 28 is attached to the outer surface 18 of the second portion 26 of the first member 22. The first straight section of the second member 28 extends generally linearly and perpendicularly away from the first member 22 and transitions into the arcuate section which curves about a radius and transitions into the second straight section. The second straight section of the second member 28 extends generally upwardly away from the remainder of second member 28 and terminates at the second end 36. The second end 36 is located farther away from the first member 22 and from the pier or dock 14.
The second end 36 of the second member 28 can optionally contain a slit 38. The slit 38 can extend radially through the circumferential outer wall 30 so that it is aligned perpendicular to the second end 36. The slit allows the second end 36 to have a degree of flexibility when another member is inserted into it. The slit 38 can vary in thickness and length. Desirably, the slit 38 is between from about 0.25 inches in length to about 1 inch in length. The thickness of the slit 38 can be from about 0.1 millimeters to several millimeters. The slit 38 generally disrupts the continuity of the circumference of the circumferential sidewall at the second end 36 of the second member 28. The void area of the slit 38 and the properties and characteristics of the second member 28 enable the second member 28, in which the slit 38 is formed, to flex. The radial inward and/or outward expansion and/or contraction of the second end 36, whereby the circumference of the second end 36 can become relatively larger or smaller permits a cooperating member to be easily inserted into or withdrawn from the second end 36. Namely, the second end 36 can expand outwardly to receive another component of the recreational accessory 32 therein. Alternatively, the second end 36 can be compressed inwardly to be inserted into another component of the recreational accessory 32.
Still referring to
Referring now to
The securing device 44 can be manipulated between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the securing device 44 is generally locked, whereby it locks and/or otherwise fixes, for example, a recreational accessory 32 to the second member 28. In the second position, the securing device 44 is generally unlocked, whereby it generally permits movement between, for example, the recreational accessory 32 and the second member 28.
Referring to FIGS. 7 and 17-19, the securing device 44 is depicted as a quick release clamp. In
The clamp body 46 is generally annular in shape. The clamp body 46 has first and second terminal ends, which are located adjacent to each other. The first and second ends of the clamp body 46 are spaced from each other by a clamp space 52. The magnitude of the distance between the first and second ends, which defines the clamp space 52, is not constant. Rather, the magnitude of the distance of the clamp space 52, at any particular point in time, depends on the exact configuration, and utilization of the securing device 44 at that particular point in time. As one example, when the securing device 44 is in the relaxed state, clamp space 52 is relatively large. Whereas when the securing device 44 is in a clamped state, the clamp space 52 is relatively small.
The clamp body 46 can be an arcuate band which extends circularly around in an arc and connects the first and second terminal ends of the clamp body 46. A through bore (not shown) passes generally through a medial portion of the clamp body 46 and is sized, adapted, and configured, to close or open the clamp space 52. The clamp body 46 is designed to concentrically slide over and surround portions of the second member 28 and a projection 54 which extends downward and away from the recreational accessory 32, see
A relatively smaller diameter, bolt receiving, through bore (not shown) passes through each of the first and second terminal ends of the clamp body 46. This smaller diameter bolt is generally aligned perpendicular to the larger diameter bore which passes medially through the clamp body 46.
The clamp bolt 48 passes axially through each of the bolt receiving though bores of the first and second clamp body ends. The clamp bolt 48 includes a head, at one end, which has a diameter of relatively larger magnitude than the magnitude of the bore diameter of the bolt receiving through bore. Accordingly, the outwardly facing surface of the first terminal end of the clamp body 46 provides a shoulder, or other mechanical interface, which mechanically prevents the bolt head from passing into and through the bolt receiving bore. The other end of the clamp bolt 48 includes a portion which extends outwardly beyond the clamp body 46 and is adapted and configured to interface with the clamp arm 50.
The clamp arm 50 is elongated, illustrated as slightly arcuate, and has first and second ends. The first end of the clamp arm 50 includes a cavity extending thereinto, optionally, therethrough. This cavity receives therein the portion of the clamp bolt 48 which extends outwardly beyond the second terminal end of the clamp body 46. The second terminal end of the clamp body 46 and the first end of the clamp arm 50 are located adjacent to each other and the clamp body 46 and the clamp arm 50 are connected to each other by way of the clamp bolt 48.
A pin (not shown) extends through the first end of the clamp arm 50 and extends radially through the portion of the clamp bolt 48 which extends into the first end. The pin enables the clamp arm 50 to pivot about it, defining an axis of pivotation, whereby the clamp arm 50 is pivotably connected to the clamp bolt 48. By pivoting the clamp arm 50 about the pin, a person can manipulate the securing device 44 between a relaxed state or configuration and a clamped state or configuration.
When a person manipulates, for example, pivots the clamp arm 50, the first end of the clamp arm 50 interfaces with the second terminal end of the clamp body 46. As desired, the outer surface of the clamp body's 46 second terminal end and the outer surface of the first end of the clamp arm 50 have cooperating profiles and/or other characteristics, which enable the clamp arm 50 to be releasably “locked-down” with respect to the clamp body 46. Suitably cooperating profiles and/or other characteristics include, but are not limited to, various corresponding ramped surfaces, corresponding detent structures, and/or other characteristics and configurations which enable the clamp arm 50 to snap-lock, cam-lock, and/or otherwise releasably lock-down with respect to the clamp body 46.
When the securing device 44 is in the locked-down, clamped state or configuration, the through bore which passes through the securing device 44 realizes a relatively lesser diameter. Correspondingly, the inner circumferential surface of the securing device 44 urges a portion of second member 28, which it communicates with, generally inwardly, relatively reducing the diameter of the end of the second member 28. In other words, when a person locks-down the clamp arm 50, the clamp body 46 concentrically squeezes the second member 28, flexing the circumferential outer wall 30 radially inwardly, which decreases the width of the slit 38. Correspondingly, the inner circumferential surface of the second member 28 squeezes against the outer circumferential surface of the projection 54 which has been inserted into the second end 36 of the second member 28. Thus the securing device 44 removably, grippingly, frictionally, or otherwise, secures the projection 54 to the second member 28.
Referring now to
The interfacing of the first portion 24 with the pier or dock 14 provides, at least in part, the load bearing capacity of the first member 22. The interfacing of the second portion 26 with the pier or dock 14 provides, at least in part, a means by which the recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10 resists rotationally falling into the water when the recreational accessory 32 is cantilevered outwardly beyond the pier or dock 14. As desired, the first portion 24 and/or the second portion 26 have one or more bores 56 which extend therethrough, see
Referring now to
Referring now to
The first portion 60 is a generally rigid, planar, elongated member and extends generally parallel to and along a portion of the upper surface 16 of the pier or dock 14. The first portion 60 has an upper surface, a lower surface, a substrate facing edge and an outwardly facing edge. The substrate facing edge generally faces toward the pier or dock 14 and the outwardly facing edge faces generally outwardly away from the pier or dock 14.
The second portion 62 is a generally rigid, planar, elongated member which extends generally parallel to and along a portion of the outwardly facing surface of the pier or dock 14 and extends downwardly from the first portion 60. The second portion 62 has an inwardly facing surface, and outwardly facing surface, an upper edge surface and a lower edge surface. The lower edge surface of the second portion 62 is approximate the water and the upper edge surface, or a portion of the second portion 62 located adjacent to its outer edge, is attached to the outwardly facing edge of the first portion 60.
The third portion 64 is a generally rigid, planar, elongated member and extends generally parallel to and along a portion of the lower surface of the pier or dock 14, generally parallel to the first portion 60. The third portion 64 has an upper surface, a lower surface, a substrate facing edge and an outwardly facing edge. The substrate facing edge generally faces toward the pier or dock 14 and the outwardly facing edge faces generally outwardly away from the pier or dock 14. The outwardly facing edge of the third portion 64 is attached to the lower edge surface of the second portion 62, whereby the first, second, and third portions, 60, 62 and 64 respectively, define a C-shaped channel bracket 58.
The second member 28 extends outwardly from the second portion 62, similar to how the second member 28 extends outwardly from second portion 26 of the first member 22 shown in
Referring now to
A plurality of bores 68 are formed through the entire thickness of the mounting plate 66. The bores 68 are adapted and configured to accept mounting hardware therethrough so as to secure the mounting assembly 12″ to the pier or dock 14. Suitable hardware includes, but is not limited to, nails, bolts, screws, rivets and/or other fasteners and hardware.
Referring now to
The recreational accessory 32 includes a lower tray assembly 70, an upper tray assembly 72, and a slide rail assembly 74. The lower tray assembly 70 includes a lower tray 76, parts of the slide rail assembly 74, a pair of anchor projections 54, and optionally, a support brace assembly 78. The upper tray assembly 72 includes an upper tray 80 and parts of the slide rail assembly 74.
The lower tray 76 is generally planar, has an upper surface, a lower surface, front and back edges, and lateral edges. The lower tray 76 is mounted, for example, cantilevered, outwardly away from the pier or dock 14. No portion of the lower tray 76 superposes the pier or dock 14. Rather, the lower tray 76, in its entirety, superposes and/or otherwise overlies the water.
The upper tray 80 is generally planar, has an upper surface, a lower surface, front and back edges, and lateral edges. The upper tray 80 is adapted and configured to move, namely linearly advance and/or regress, with respect to the lower tray 76. The lower surface of the upper tray 80 faces the upper surface of the lower tray 76. The upper surface of the upper tray 80 faces upwardly, in the opposite direction, and provides a useable surface upon which a person can, for example, use in a manner similar to a typical tabletop.
The upper tray 80 is adapted and configured to move with respect to the lower tray 76, whereby the lower tray 76 is fixed in a relatively immobile position and orientation and the upper tray 80 is relatively movable and/or otherwise mobile. In other words, the recreational accessory 32 enables a person to manipulate and move at least a portion of the recreational accessory 32 between a first position in which it generally does not superpose the pier or dock 14 and a second position in which the recreational accessory 32 does superpose at least a portion of the pier or dock 14.
Referring to
In embodiments which include trays which are slidably moveable with respect to each other, various other suitable and well know slide mechanisms are contemplated and fully within the scope of the present invention. Such mechanisms include but are not limited to: various side-mounted, bottom-mounted drawer slides as well as other slides.
In embodiments which include trays that are otherwise movable with respect to each other, such movable components communicate with each other through, for example, suitable hardware which enables the particular desired movable relationship therebetween. As one example, in embodiments which include a first tray member that pivots or rotates with respect to a second tray member, such first and second tray members can be attached to each other by way of various hardware swivel mechanisms, pivot mechanisms, and/or other suitable hardware.
Referring again to
The lower portions of the pair of lower slide rails 82 each face the upper surface of the lower tray 76. The upper portion of the pair of lower slide rails 82 each face generally the same direction as the upper surface of the lower tray 76, namely toward the upper tray 80. The upper portion of the pair of lower slide rails 82 can include a turned or perpendicularly bent portion thereof. For example, a laterally projecting rib or flange. The laterally projecting rib or flange can extend along the length of each of the lower slide rails 82, generally parallel to the lower tray 76, and toward the other respective one of the lower slide rail 82.
The mounting brackets 84 are generally L-shaped brackets and each has an upright member and a horizontal member. The upright members of the mounting brackets 84 are attached to the outer surfaces of the lower slide rails 82. The horizontal members of the mounting brackets 84 extend under and beyond each of the lower slide rails 82, toward the medial portion of the lower tray 76 and toward the other lower slide rail 82. The horizontal members of the mounting brackets 84 extend under and beyond each of the lower slide rails 82, toward the medial portion of the lower tray 76 and toward the other slide rail 82. Thus, a plurality of the mounting brackets 84 are spaced apart from each other and are attached to the pair of lower slide rails 82 to the upper surface of the lower tray 76.
The slide rollers 86 are each generally cylindrical, wheel-type members, which are rotatably mounted to one of the pair of lower slide rails 82. Namely, each of the slide rollers 86 can rotate with the inner surface of one of the lower slide rails 82, adjacent to an end of the lower slide rail 82. Each of the slide rollers 86 rotates about an axis of rotation which is generally parallel to the upper surface of the lower tray 76 and the outer circumferential surface of each of the rollers 86 is adapted and configured to interface with one of the pair of upper slide rails 88.
The pair of upper slide rails 88 extends generally parallel to each other and at least partially along the length of the upper tray 80. Each of the pair of upper slide rails 88 is generally elongated, has an inner surface, an outer surface, a lower portion, an upper portion, and is mounted and positioned generally perpendicularly upright, for example, extending downwardly on edge, with respect to the upper tray 80. In otherwords, each of the pair of upper slide rails 88 extends partially along the length of, and perpendicularly downwardly away from, the lower surface of the upper tray 80. The pair of upper slide rails 88 and/or components affixed thereto, is adapted and configured to slidingly or otherwise cooperate with other components of the slide rail assembly 74. Namely, portions of the upper slide rails 88, and/or other components of the slide rail assembly 74 communicating therewith, are adapted and configured to linearly advance and/or regress with respect to other portions of the slide rail assembly 74. This enables the pair of upper slide rails 88 and/or other components of the slide rail assembly 74 to communicate with the pair of lower slide rails 82.
The upper portions of the pair of upper slide rails 88 each face the lower surface of the upper tray 80. The lower portions of the pair of upper slide rails 88 each face generally the same direction as the lower surface of the upper tray 80, namely toward the lower tray 76. As desired, the lower portion of the pair of upper slide rails 88 can include a turned or perpendicularly bent portion. For example, a laterally projecting rib or flange which extends along the length of each of the upper rails 88. The laterally projecting rib or flange can be aligned parallel to the upper tray 80 and face toward the other upper slide rails 88.
The mounting brackets 90 are generally L-shaped brackets, each of which has an upright member and a horizontal member. The upright members of the mounting brackets 90 are attached to the outer surfaces of each of the upper slide rails 88. The horizontal members of each of the mounting brackets 90 extend outwardly away from the upper slide rails 88 toward a first outer lateral edge of the upper tray 80 and thus away from the other slide rail 88. Thus, a plurality of the mounting brackets 90 are spaced apart from each other and are attached to the upper slide rails 88 and to the lower surface of the upper tray 80.
Each of the pair of slide rollers 92 is generally a cylindrical, wheel-type member, 20 which is rotatably mounted to one of the pair of upper slide rails 88. Namely, each of the slide rollers 92 can rotate on the inner surface of one of the upper slide rails 88, adjacent to an end of the respective upper slide rail 88. Each of the slide rollers 92 can rotate about an axis of rotation which is generally parallel to the lower surface of the upper tray 80 and the outer circumferential surface of the respective slide roller 92 is adapted and configured to interface with corresponding ones of the lower slide rails 82.
In embodiments in which the lower and upper slide rails, 82 and 88 respectively, incorporate laterally projecting ribs, the ribs are adapted and configured to cooperate with the respective rollers 86 and 92 which enable corresponding ones of the lower and upper slide rails 82 and 88 to slide relative to each other. Namely, the outer circumferential surface of each of the slide rollers 86 can rotate with respect to the upwardly facing surface of the lateral rib of the respective upper slide rails 88.
The outer circumferential surface of each of the slide rollers 92 can roll on the downwardly facing surface of the lateral rib of the respective lower slide rail 82. Thus, the interfacing relationships between the slide rollers 86 and 92 and the corresponding pair of lower and upper slide rails, 82 and 88 respectively, effectively resist forces which urge the upper tray 80 upwardly away from the lower tray 76, whereby the trays 76 and 80 are locked in a sliding relationship to each other. This enables the upper tray 80 to slide with respect to the lower tray 76 while generally preventing non-desired removal of the upper tray 80 from the lower tray 76.
Thus the recreational accessory 32, namely the upper tray 80, can slide along a generally straight line travel path, between the first and second positions, 40 and 42 respectively. The upper tray 80 is adapted and configured to traverse a travel distance which corresponds to the width of the recreational accessory 32, i.e. the table. As one example, the travel distance has a magnitude of at least about 50% of the magnitude of width of the recreational accessory 32. Desirably, the travel distance has a magnitude of at least about 70% of the magnitude of the recreational accessory 32. More desirably, the travel distance has a magnitude of at least about 80% of the magnitude of the recreational accessory 32.
The slide rail assembly 74 further includes other suitable slide mechanisms as desired by the user. Examples of other slide mechanisms include various under-mount, and/or side-mount, drawer and/or other slide mechanisms such as various friction slides, snap-in friction slides, ball bearing slides, mini ball bearing slides, and/or others.
Still referring to
Each of the pair of support brace assemblies 78 includes an elongated arm 94, an upper brace connector 96 (one of which is shown), and a lower brace connector 98. Each elongated arm 94 has first and second ends and a length defined therebetween. An upper brace connector 96 is attached to a first end of each of the elongated arms 94 and a lower brace connector 98 is attached to a second end of each of the elongated arms 94. The pair of elongated arms 94 can be omitted in some embodiments, if desired.
The upper and lower brace connectors, 96 and 98 respectively, have a hinge barrel which extends generally perpendicular to the elongated arm 94. A bore extends axially through the hinge barrel and is adapted and configured to accept mounting hardware therethrough. In the alternative to a hinge barrel, each of the upper and lower brace connectors, 96 and 98 respectively, can include a bore which extends radially through the first and second ends of the respective elongated arm 94.
Regardless of the particular configuration of the upper and lower brace connectors, 96 and 98 respectively, the upper and lower brace connectors, 96 and 98, are adapted and configured to cooperate with corresponding receiving structure secured to the pier or dock 14. For example, the receiving structure can be a mounting bracket 100, see
Each of the rigid lobes can have a bore which extends therethrough, aligned parallel to the bore which extends through the upper and lower brace connectors 96 and 98. In the complete assemblage of recreational accessory 32, the bores formed in the rigid lobes and the bores formed in the upper and lower brace connectors 96 and 98 are generally coaxially aligned with each other. This means that hardware can pass through the coaxially aligned bores and secure the support brace assembly 78 to the recreational accessory 32 and to the pier or dock 14. Suitable mounting hardware includes, but is not limited to: bolts, screws, pins, keys, rivets, and/or other hardware.
Thus, in embodiments which incorporate a support brace assembly 78, the generally rigid, durable, and/or resilient braces, arms, and/or braces transfer at least some of the load, provided by gravitational force upon the recreational accessory 32, to the pier or dock 14. As desired, the support brace assembly 78 is utilized to at least partially attenuate any tendency of the recreational accessory 32 to sag downwardly at the portion most distal to the pier or dock 14.
The support brace assembly 78 extends from the recreational accessory 32 at an angle which is less than about 90 degrees, desirably less than about 60 degrees, and more desirably, less than about 45 degrees, with respect to the bottom surface of the recreational accessory 32. The support brace assembly 78 extends at a generally acute angle toward the pier or dock 14. This enables the recreational accessory 32 to be cantilevered entirely beyond the outer surface 18 of the pier or dock 14 and be supported entirely by the pier or dock 14. This construction also allows the recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10 to be free or devoid of any support members which need to be positioned in the ground directly below it. In the case of our pier or dock 14, the recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10 does not have to include posts which pass into the water and are driven into the soil of the lake or river or other geological structure.
To assemble the recreational accessory 32 to the mounting assembly 12, a person would insert the projections 54 of the recreational accessory 32 into the second members 28. As desired, the person can secure the securing devices 44. Then the person pivots the elongated arms 94 of the support brace assembly 78, about their pivotably attachment points with the recreational accessory 32, into communication with the corresponding mounting brackets 100 and inserts the securing hardware. This last mentioned step can further include un-securing and re-securing the securing devices 44 and/or raising, lowering, or otherwise moving the recreational accessory 32 with respect to the mounting assembly 12. This action will ensure that the lower brace connectors 98 are suitably aligned with the mounting brackets 100.
A person can remove the recreational accessory 32 from the mounting assembly 12 and replace the recreational accessory 32 with another suitable recreational accessory such as will be described later. Accordingly, the recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10 can be a multifunctional, modular, device which enables a person to exchange and utilize various recreational accessories in combination with a single, or a plurality, of mounting assemblies 12.
Turning now to
The upper surface of the shelf 102 provides a usable platform upon which a person can store items, or otherwise use for another purpose. The upper and lower surfaces of the shelf 102 are generally aligned parallel to each other, and each is generally aligned parallel to the upper surface 16 of the pier or dock 14. The upper and lower surfaces of the shelf 102 are elevated above a horizontal plane which is defined by the upper surface 16 of the pier or dock 14. A straight-line projected from the upper surface 16 of the pier or dock 14 and coplanar therewith, projected under the shelf 102 such that the plane of the shelf 102 is located vertically above the upper surface 18 of the pier or dock 14.
Referring to
The movable shelf 102′ can be readily accessible to a boater who approaches the pier or dock 14. For example, once a boat is positioned adjacent to the pier or dock 14, the boater can pull out the shelf 102, located below the surface of the pier or dock 14, and reach items on the shelf 102′ which are to be loaded into the boat. Alternatively, items to be removed from the boat can be placed on the pulled out shelf 102′ so that they can be later retrieved by the boater or be picked up by another person on the pier or dock 14. Optionally, one or more handles 176, one of which is shown, can be secured to the shelf 102′. The handle(s) 176 can extend upwardly from an outer edge of the shelf 102′ and/or back toward the pier or dock 14 whereby a user can extend or retract the shelf 102′ while positioned, such as when kneeling or sitting, on the upper surface 16 of the pier or dock 14. Such a shelf 102′ is especially useful when the upper surface 16 of the pier or dock 14 is located at a distance of more than 12 inches above the upper surface of the water.
In some embodiments, the plane of the shelf 102 can be positioned even with or be below the upper surface 16 of the pier or dock 14. Alternatively, portions of the shelf 102 can lie generally below the upper surface 16 of the pier or dock 14. In addition, portions of the upper surface 16 of the pier or dock 14 can be superposed over a portion of the shelf 102, if desired. Exemplary of uses in which such configuration proves beneficial are those in which the shelf 102 is adapted and configured to receive, store, or otherwise house water skis, ropes, life preservers, and/or other boating or water recreational accessories, thereby keeping such accessories conveniently stored yet off the upper surface of the pier or dock 14.
In other words, the upper surface of the shelf 102 is vertically spaced from the upper surface of the water by a first distance which has a magnitude greater than the magnitude of a second distance defined between the upper surface 16 of pier or dock 14 and the upper surface of the water. Thus, as illustrated, the recreational accessory 32′ is relatively more elevated above, for example, more distal or further removed from the water than is the upper surface 16 of the pier or dock 14. Alternatively, the recreational accessory 32′ can be relatively less elevated above, for example, less distal or nearer to, the water than is the upper surface 16 of the pier or dock 14. In such alternative embodiments, the second member 28 will extend generally downwardly away from the C-shaped channel 58 or other suitable substrate mounting means.
Accordingly, any suitably recreational accessory 32 or 32′ can be cantilevered outwardly from the pier or dock 14 and the bottom of the recreational accessory 32 or 32′ can be either located above or below a projected plane which extends in a coplanarly fashion from the upper surface 16 of the pier or dock 14. Alternatively, any suitable recreational accessory 32 or 32′ can be cantilevered outwardly from the pier or dock 14 and the bottom of the recreational accessory 32 or 32′ can be either relatively higher than or relatively lower than the point of attachment of the mounting assembly 12 and the pier or dock 14.
As shown, the support brace assembly 78 includes a pair of arms 94 which diagonally extend outward between the pier or dock 14 and the outwardly facing portion of the shelf 102. The pair of arms 94 provides additional load bearing support, in addition to the load bearing support provided by the mounting assembly 12. Namely, a first end of each of the pair of arms 94 is attached to the outwardly facing portion of the shelf 102 and the second end of each of the pair of arms 94 is attached to the pier or dock 14.
Utilization of the support brace assembly 78, in combination with the shelf 102, at least partially transfers the forces applied by a load placed upon the shelf 102 to the pier or dock 14. This is especially true for loads which are applied at or adjacent the outwardly facing portion of the shelf 102 or forces applied otherwise nearer the point of intersection of the support brace assembly 78 and the shelf 102. Loads applied to the shelf 102 which are closer to the point where the mounting assembly 12 is attached to the shelf 102 will be support more by the second member 28 of the mounting assembly 12.
Referring now to
The locking mechanism 104 communicates with the door and with a generally non-movable portion of the storage box 32″ such as one of the bottom wall, top wall, and sidewalls, and is adapted and configured to selectively secure the door in a closed position. Those skilled in the art are well aware of suitable mechanisms and devices for use as the locking mechanism 104. Such suitable mechanisms and devices include, but are not limited to: hasps, hasp-locks, hasp-and-staples, padlock-eyes, padlocks, deadbolts, lockable knobs, lockable levers, and/or others.
Alternatively, the recreational accessory 32″ is not a storage box but rather another relatively large and bulky recreational accessory. Other such recreational accessory may include, but is not limited to a charcoal grill, a gas grill, a cooler, a camp-stove, a non-locking storage box, etc.
Referring now to
The mounting assembly 12′ is attached to an outer surface 18 of the pier or dock 14. The elongated arm 108 extends generally upwardly and outwardly from the mounting assembly 12′.
The elongated arm 108 is a rigid member having a first end and a second end. The elongated arm 108 is depicted having a curved, arcuate or curvilinear profile. The elongated arm 108 can have a length which is more than 12 inches. Desirably, the elongated arm 108 has a length of from between about 12 inches to about 48 inches. More desirably, the elongated arm 108 has a length of from between about 16 inches to about 36 inches. The profile of the elongated arm 108 can be a C, an S, a V, a W, a U or any other desired profile. The elongated arm 108 connects the table 106 to the mounting assembly 12′ and is adapted and configured to bear at least some of the load of the table 106 and/or objects placed thereupon. The elongated arm 108 is adapted and configured to pivot or rotate with respect to the mounting assembly 12′. The elongated arm 108 can be designed to rotate from between about 10 degrees to 360 degrees with respect to the mounting assembly 12′. The elongated arm 108 can rotate within the second member 28. Alternatively, the elongated arm 108 can be constructed from a flexible material that will allow it to bend a small amount so as to reposition the table 106 without having to rotate the elongated arm 108. The table 106 will be able to pivot or move relative to movement of the elongated arm 108.
The first end of the elongated arm 108 can be inserted into the second or upper end 36 of the mounting assembly 12′. The first end 34 of the mounting assembly 12′ is secured to the C-shaped channel 58. The mounting assembly 12′ curves generally outwardly away from the pier or dock 14 and extends along a generally straight-line path for a short distance to its second end 36. The elongated arm 108 has a first end 110 which is designed to be inserted into the second end 36 of the mounting assembly 12′. The elongated arm 108 extends upward and terminates at a second end 112 which is generally aligned perpendicular to the water. The second end 112 is sized, adapted and configured to be connected to the table 106.
The recreational accessory 33 includes one or more securing devices 44. As shown, a first securing device 44 communicates and cooperates with a portion of recreational accessory 33 at or adjacent the intersection of the table 106 with the second end 112 of the elongated arm 108. A second securing device 44 communicates and cooperates with a portion of recreational accessory 33 located at or adjacent to the intersection of the mounting assembly 12′ and the first end 110 of the elongated arm 108. The securing devices 44 enables the components of the recreational accessory 33 to selectively either pivot, rotate, and/or otherwise move with respect to each other, or be relatively lockingly or otherwise temporarily fixed with respect to each other. Accordingly, a person can loosen, unlock, or otherwise un-secure, one of the securing devices 44, which enable the person to pivot, rotate, lift upwardly, insert inwardly, or otherwise move the elongated arm 108 with respect to the table 106 and/or the mounting assembly 12′.
It should be mentioned that in
Still referring to
In yet other embodiments, the table 106 does not include the collar 114. In this embodiment, the uppermost end of the elongated arm 108 can include a flange, which extends radially outwardly therefrom, which is fixedly mounted to the bottom surface of the table 106. Alternatively, the second end 112 of elongated arm 108 can include a swivel-plate or some other turn-table type device, which is mounted to the bottom surface of the table 106. This structure enables the table 106 to pivot, rotate, and/or otherwise move with respect to the elongated arm 108.
Referring now to
The length dimension of the canisters 118 and 120 extends in a direction which is generally perpendicular to the direction of the length dimension of the crossbar 116. The first and second canisters, 118 and 120 extend upwardly from the upper surface of the crossbar 116, adjacent to the first and second ends of the crossbar 116 and generally parallel to each other.
A blind bore 124 is formed in the first canister 118 and a blind bore 126 is formed in the second canister 120. Each of the bores 124 and 126 extends downward from the upper surface of the respective canisters 118 and 120 into each of the canisters 118 and 120. Each of the bores 124 and 126 is adapted and configured to receive various articles therein, including, but not limited to: a flagpole, an umbrella pole, a low voltage lighting fixture, a high voltage light fixture, a bird-feeder mounting pole, a plant-hanging mounting pole, etc. Accordingly, the exact dimensions and characteristics of the first and second canisters, 118 and 120 respectively, are selected to correspond to the desired qualities and characteristics based at least in part on the intended use, intended use environment, and duration of the intended use-life.
It should be understood that each bore 124 and 126 can hold a recreational accessory or the two bores 124 and 126 can cooperate to hold a single recreational accessory.
The projection 122 extends generally downwardly from a medial portion of the lower surface of the crossbar 116. The projection 122 is adapted and configured to enable a person to removably attach a recreational accessory 33′ to the desired mounting mechanism.
The projection 122 is generally elongated in profile and has an outer circumferential surface which cooperates with the inner circumferential surface of second member 28 of the various mounting assemblies 12 or 12′. In other words, the projection 122 is adapted and configured for removable, sliding, receipt into the opening formed in the hollow tubular second member 28. This structure permits the inner circumferential surface of the second member 28 to grip, frictionally engage, clamp, etc. with the interface of the outer circumferential surface of the projection 122.
Referring now to
Each of first and second bars, 128 and 130 respectively, has first and second ends which define a length dimension therebetween, a width dimension, a thickness dimension, and upper and lower surfaces. The first ends of the first and second bars, 128 and 130 respectively, intersect and are connected to each other. As by example, the first and second bars, 128 and 130 respectively, extend outwardly and perpendicularly away from each other. They establish a generally L-shape configuration as viewed from above. The first and second bars, 128 and 130 respectively, can be angled relative to one another from between 1 degree to about 180 degrees. When the first and second bars, 128 and 130 respectively, are arranged close to 1 degree or close to 180 degrees, they may appear to be a linear line when viewed from above. It should be understood that the first and second bars, 128 and 130 respectively, can be arranged at any desired angle relative to each other. The first and second bars, 128 and 130 respectively, intersect at one end. It should also be noted that additional bars can be added to produce various shapes, such as a double L configuration or a triple L configuration. The bars 128 and 130 can also be curved to produce a C-shaped configuration, etc.
Still referring to
It should be understood that each bore 124 and 126 can hold a recreational accessory or the two bores 124 and 126 can cooperate to hold a single recreational accessory. In general, the bores 124 and 126 are representative of multiple bores which can be used to support accessories. Each bore can be used to support a single accessory, or a given accessory can be supported by two, or three, or more, of the bores.
The projection 122 extends downwardly from the lower surface of the intersecting point of the bar 128 and 130. The projection 122 is adapted and configured to pivot, rotate, be removed, be inserted into or otherwise be suitably housed in various corresponding mounting assemblies 12.
Referring now to
The second portion 26 can be a generally rigid, planar, elongated member which extends generally parallel to and along a portion of an outer surface 18 of the pier or dock 14. The second portion 26 extends downwardly from the first portion 24. The second portion 26 has an inwardly facing surface, and outwardly facing surface, an upper edge surface and a lower edge surface. The lower edge surface of the second portion 26 faces downwardly and the upper edge surface, or a portion of the second portion 26 located adjacent to its outer edge, is attached to the outwardly facing edge of the first portion 24. Thus, first portion 24 and the second portion 26, in combination, define the “L-shaped” profile for the first member 22.
The second member 28 extends outwardly and upwardly away from the outwardly facing surface of second portion 26 and thus outwardly and upwardly away from the pier or dock 14. The second member 28, either alone or in combination with the securing device 44, is adapted and configured to removably receive a recreational accessory 32, 32′ 32″, 33, 33′ or 33″ therein.
The second mounting assembly 12″ shown in
One or more bores 68 extend through the entire thickness of the mounting plate 66 and each is adapted and configured to accept a suitable mounting hardware therethrough. The hardware (not shown) is used to secure the mounting assembly 12″ to the pier or dock 14.
Referring now to
In
Turning now to
The first side wall 140 is an elongated member which extends along the length of back wall 138 and is situated adjacent to the first lateral edge of the back wall 138. The first side wall 140 extends generally perpendicularly outwardly from the outwardly facing surface of back wall 138. The second side wall 142 is an elongated member which extends along the length of the back wall 138 and is situated adjacent to the second lateral edge of the back wall 138. The second side wall 142 extends generally perpendicularly outwardly from the outwardly facing surface of the back wall 138, generally parallel to the first side wall 140.
The bottom wall 144 is an elongated member which extends along all or part of the width of back wall 138 and adjacent to the lower edge of the back wall 138. The bottom wall 144 can include one or more holes or slots, e.g. at or close to the back of the bottom wall 144, thus to provide such additional features as mounting slots for mounting the back wall to the bottom wall, drainage slots, and/or security apertures such as for mounting a padlock or other locking device. The bottom wall 144 extends generally outwardly from the outwardly facing surface of the back wall 138. A first end of the bottom wall 144 communicates with a respective end of the first side wall 140 and a second end of the bottom wall 144 communicates with a respective end of the second side wall 142. This construction permits the bottom wall 144 to span across and connect the first and second side walls, 140 and 142 respectively, on opposite lateral sides of the back wall 138.
The first side flange 146 is an elongated member having first and second lateral edges. The first side flange 146 extends along a plane which is generally parallel to the back wall 138. The length of the first side flange 146 is equal the length of the back wall 138 and is also equal to the length of the first side wall 140. The first lateral edge of the first side flange 146 is connected to the outwardly most extending portion of the first side wall 140. From the point of intersection with the first side wall 140, the first side flange 146 extends inwardly toward the medial portion of the back wall 138, parallel to and spaced apart from the back wall 138.
The second side flange 148 is an elongated member having first and second lateral edges. The second side flange 148 extends along a plane which is generally parallel to the back wall 138, generally coplanar with the first side flange 146. The length of second side flange 148 is equal to the length of the back wall 138 and is also equal to the length of the second side wall 142. The first lateral edge of the second side flange 148 is connected to the outwardly most extending portion of the second side wall 142. From the point of intersection with the second side wall 142, the second side flange 148 extends inwardly toward the medial portion of the back wall 138 and thus toward the first side flange 146, parallel to and spaced apart from the back wall 138.
The bottom flange 150 is an elongated member having an upper edge and a lower edge. The bottom flange 150 extends parallel to and is spaced apart from the back wall 138. The lower edge of the bottom flange 150 is connected to the outwardly most extending portion of the bottom wall 144.
A first end of the bottom flange 150 communicates with a respective end of the first side flange 146 and a second end of the bottom flange 150 communicates with a respective end of the second side flange 148. This construction permits the bottom flange 150 to span across and connect the first and second side flanges, 146 and 148 respectively, on opposite lateral sides of the back wall 138. The bottom flange 150 is also connected to the back wall 138 along its entire length.
The outwardly facing surface of the back wall 138, the inwardly facing surfaces of the first and second side walls, 140 and 142 respectively, the upwardly facing surface of the bottom flange 150, the mounting substrate facing surfaces of the first and second side flanges, 146 and 148 respectively, and the bottom flange 150, generally define the outer perimeter of a cavity 154. In other words, the cavity 154 is a void which extends from the outwardly facing surface of the back wall 138, outwardly toward the surfaces of the first and second side flanges, 146 and 148 respectively. The width of the cavity 154 extends between the inner surfaces of the first and second side walls, 140 and 142 respectively. The cavity 154 is adapted and configured to receive and removably house the insertion plate 134 therein.
Referring now to
One or more bores 152′ extend through the thickness of the back wall 138′. Four bores 152′ are depicted in
The first side wall 140′ is an elongated member which extends along the length of the back wall 138′ and adjacent to the first lateral edge of the back wall 138′. The first side wall 140′ extends generally perpendicularly outwardly from the outwardly facing surface of the back wall 138′. The second side wall 142′ is also an elongated member which extends along the length of the back wall 138′ and adjacent to the second lateral edge of the back wall 138′. The second side wall 142′ extends generally perpendicularly outwardly from the outwardly facing surface of the back wall 138′, generally parallel to the first side wall 140′.
The bottom wall 144 is an elongated member which extends along all or part of the width of back wall 138 and adjacent to the lower edge of the back wall 138. The bottom wall 144 can include one or more holes or slots, e.g. at or close to the back of the bottom wall, thus to provide such additional features as mounting slots for mounting the back wall to the bottom wall, drainage slots, and/or security apertures such as for mounting a padlock or other locking device. The bottom wall 144′ extends generally outwardly from the outwardly facing surface of back wall 138′. A first end of the bottom wall 144′ communicates with a respective end of the first side wall 140′ and a second end of the bottom wall 144′ communicates with a respective end of the second side wall 142′. This construction permits the bottom wall 144′ to span across and connect the first and second side walls, 140′ and 142′ respectively, on opposite lateral sides of the back wall 138′.
The first side-flange 146′ is an elongated member having first and second lateral edges. The first side-flange 146′ extends along a plane which is generally parallel to the back wall 138′. The length of the first side flange 146′ is equal to the length of back wall 138′ and is also equal to the length of the first side wall 140′. The first lateral edge of the first side flange 146′ is connected to the outwardly most extending portion of the first side wall 140′. From the point of intersection with the first side wall 140′, the first side flange 146′ extends inwardly toward the medial portion of the back wall 138′, parallel to and spaced apart from the back wall 138′.
The second side flange 148′ is an elongated member having first and second lateral edges. The first side-flange 146′ extends along a plane which is generally parallel to the back wall 138′, generally coplanar with the first side flange 146′. The length of the second side flange 148′ is equal to the length of the back wall 138′ and is also equal to the length of the second side wall 142′. The first lateral edge of the second side flange 148′ is connected to the outwardly most extending portion of the second side wall 142′. From the point of intersection with the second side wall 142′, the second side flange 148′ extends inwardly toward the medial portion of the back wall 138′ and thus toward the first side flange 146′, parallel to and spaced apart from the back wall 138′.
The bottom flange 150′ is an elongated member having an upper edge and a lower edge. The first side-flange 146′ extends parallel to and is spaced apart from the back wall 138′. The lower edge of the bottom flange 150′ is connected to the outwardly most extending portion of bottom wall 144′.
A first end of the bottom flange 150′ communicates with a respective end of the first side flange 146′ and a second end of the bottom flange 150′ communicates with a respective end of the second side flange 148′. This construction permits the bottom flange 150′ to span across and connect the first and second side flanges, 146′ and 148′ respectively, all of which are spaced from and generally parallel to the back wall 138′.
The outwardly facing surface of the back wall 138′, the inwardly facing surfaces of the first and second side walls, 140′ and 142′ respectively, the upwardly facing surface of the bottom flange 150′, the mounting substrate facing surfaces of the first and second side flanges, 146′ and 148′ respectively, and the bottom flange 150′, generally define the outer perimeter of a cavity 154′. In other words, the cavity 154′ is a void which extends from the outwardly facing surface of the back wall 138′, outwardly to the surfaces of the first and second side flanges, 146′ and 148′ respectively, which face the back wall 138′, and is laterally defined between the surfaces of the first and second side walls 140′ and 142′ respectively. The cavity 154′ is adapted and configured to receive and removably house insertion plate therein.
The insertion plate 134 is a generally planar member, and based on the particular intended application, has overall dimensions which correspond to the respective dimensions of the cavity 154 and 154′. The insertion plate 134 has an inner surface, an outer surface, upper and lower portions which generally define a length dimension therebetween. The first and second lateral portions of the insertion plate 134 generally define a width dimension therebetween. Accordingly, the width dimensions of the insertion plates 134 are adapted and configured for use in combination with the receiver 132 and are relatively greater than corresponding width dimensions of the insertion plate 134 which is adapted and configured for use in combination with the receiver 132.
Returning to
In the complete assemblage of the mounting assembly 13, the insertion plate 134 can be inserted and later be removed from the receiver 132. When the insertion plate 134 is so housed in the receiver 132, the lower edge of the insertion plate 134 rests upon the upwardly facing surface of the bottom wall 144, whereby the bottom wall 144 bears at least a portion of the load of the insertion plate 134 and components attached thereto. The first and second side walls, 140 and 142 respectively, provide a mechanical mechanism for resisting and/or preventing the insertion plate 134 from laterally shifting or otherwise moving outside of the cavity 154. Namely, this is accomplished through the mechanical interfacing of the lateral edges of the insertion plate 134 and the inwardly facing surfaces of the first and second side walls, 140 and 142.
The first and second side flanges 146 and 148, and the bottom flange 150, generally capture parts of the outwardly facing surface of the insertion plate 134 located adjacent to the lower and lateral edges of the insertion plate 134. Thus, the first and second side flanges, 146 and 148 respectively, and the bottom flange 150, either separately or in combination, provide a mechanical mechanism for resisting or preventing the insertion plate 134 from shifting or otherwise moving outside of the cavity 154. In other words, the insertion plate 134 is at least partially enveloped, enclosed, bordered, captured, housed, encased, and/or otherwise surrounded by at least one of the first and second side walls, 140 and 142 respectively, the bottom wall 144, and the first and second side flanges 146 and 148 respectively.
Accordingly, to use the mounting assembly 13, the user inserts the lower portion of the insertion plate 134 into the opening defined at the uppermost surface of receiver 132 which opens into the cavity 154. The user continues to slide the insertion plate 134 downwardly into the receiver 132 until the lower edge of the insertion plate 134 abuts or contacts the upwardly facing surface of the bottom wall 150. Correspondingly, this procedure is generally performed in the reverse order of operations to withdraw the insertion plate 134 from receiver 132. Namely, the user urges the insertion plate 134 upwardly until the insertion plate 134 is entirely removed from the cavity 154.
It should be understood that the procedure for inserting and withdrawing an insertion plate into and from the receiver 132′ shown in
Referring now to
The first portion 158 is a generally rigid, planar, elongated member which extends generally parallel to and along a portion of the upper surface 16 of the pier or dock 14. The first portion 158 has an upper surface, a lower surface, a substrate facing edge and an outwardly facing edge. The substrate facing edge generally faces toward the pier or dock 14 or other mounting substrate, and the outwardly facing edge faces generally outwardly away from the pier or dock 14 or other mounting substrate.
The second portion 160 is a generally rigid, planar, elongated member which extends generally parallel to and along a portion of the outwardly facing surface of the pier or dock 14 and extends downwardly from the first portion 158. The second portion 160 has an inwardly facing surface, and outwardly facing surface, an upper edge surface and a lower edge surface. The lower edge surface of the second portion 160 is located approximate to the water, and the upper edge surface, or a section of the second portion 160 located adjacent to its outer edge, is attached to the outwardly facing edge of the first portion 158.
The third portion 162 is a generally rigid, planar, elongated member which extends generally parallel to and along a portion of the lower surface of the pier or dock 14, generally parallel to the first portion 158. The third portion 162 has an upper surface, a lower surface, a substrate facing edge and an outwardly facing edge. The substrate facing edge generally faces toward the pier or dock 14 and the outwardly facing edge faces generally outwardly away from the pier or dock 14. The outwardly facing edge of the third portion 162 is attached to the lower edge surface of second portion 160, whereby the first, second and third portions, 158, 160 and 162, in combination, generally define the C-shaped channel bracket 156.
The second member 28 extends outwardly and upwardly away from second portion 160 of the C-shaped channel bracket 156. The second member 28 is adapted and configured to receive the projection 54. The projection 54 can be inserted, rotated, pivoted, be removable, and/or otherwise be housed within the second member 28.
Still referring to
The C-shaped channel bracket 156 generally encapsulates a portion of the pier or dock 14, whereby the first portion 158 generally superposes, or otherwise lies over or upon, the upper surface 16 of the pier or dock 14. The third portion 162 lies generally below or underneath the lower surface of the pier or dock 14. When the thumbscrew 166 is utilized, the third portion 162 is spaced vertically apart from the lower surface of the pier or dock 14 by a distance which is at least as great in magnitude as the magnitude of the thickness dimension of the disc-like upper surface 170 of the thumbscrew 166.
As a person tightens the thumbscrew 166, the C-shaped channel bracket 156 will securely attach to the pier or dock 14. The C-shaped channel bracket 156 will clamp, pinch, frictionally engage, and/or otherwise, connect the mounting assembly 13′ to the pier or dock 14. The interfacing relationship between the C-shaped channel bracket 156 and the respective surfaces of the pier or dock 14, along with the tightening the thumbscrew 166 will allow for a quick and easy attachment of the mounting assembly 13′. Since the thumbscrew 166 can likewise be easily loosened, it enables the mounting assembly 13′ to be easily removed from the pier or dock 14 as well.
Referring now to
One or more bores 172 are formed through the entire thickness of second portion 160′. Four bores 172 are shown in
Referring now to
To use the mounting assembly 13′″, a person will first select the desired spot on the pier or dock 14 to place the C-shaped channel bracket 156′. As mentioned earlier, this description is directed to the pier or dock 14 but any other substrate could be used. Such other substrates include but are not limited to: decks, stairs, staircases, patios, walkways, elevated walkways, tunnels, boats, cars, trucks, wagons, tractors, etc. Likewise, the recreational accessory that can be removably secured to the mounting assembly 13′″ can also vary.
Once the spot on the pier or dock 14 is selected and the exact recreational accessory 32 is selected, the person would install or attach the mounting assembly 13′″ to the pier or dock 14. Namely, the person would position the C-shaped channel bracket 156′ against the upper and outer surfaces, 16 and 18 respectively, of the pier or dock 14 and use adequate hardware to attach the second portion 160′ of the C-shaped channel bracket 156′ to the outer surface 18 of the pier or dock 14.
The person would then removably secure, optionally non-removably attach, a recreational accessory 32 to the second member 28. A person could do this by inserting a projection 54 or 122, or the elongated arm 108 (Not Shown) into the second end 36 of the second member 28. A securing device 44 is then tightened about the outer wall 30 of the second end 36 of the second member 28. This is accomplished by rotating the bolt 48 which engages with a threaded bore formed in the securing device 44. As the securing device 44 is tightened, the slit 38 will get smaller and the outer wall 30 of the second member 28 will snugly engage with the projection 54 or 122. This action will secure the projection 54 or 122, along with the recreational accessory 32 that is secured to it, to the second member 28.
The person who has installed the recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10 can then enjoy the benefits of using the recreational accessory 32 as desired.
For example, when a person uses the recreational accessory 32 as shown in
Referring now to
As yet another example, a person could remove a recreational accessory 32 from the mounting assembly 13′″ and replace it with another, for example a different recreational accessory 32. This is done by removing the recreational accessory 32 from the mounting assembly 13′″. The person would then insert the elongated arm 108 from another recreational accessory 32 into the second member 28. In the case where the mounting assembly 13 is as depicted in
Preferably, the recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10 is made from materials which resist corrosion and are suitably strong and durable for normal extended use. Those skilled in the art are well aware of certain metallic and non-metallic materials which possess such desirable qualities. Appropriate methods of forming such materials are well known to those skilled in the art.
Appropriate metallic materials for components of the recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10 include, but are not limited to: anodized aluminum, aluminum, steel, stainless steel, titanium, magnesium, brass, and their respective alloys. Common industry methods of forming such metallic materials include: casting, forging, shearing, bending, machining, riveting, welding, powdered metal processing, extruding, etc.
Non-metallic materials suitable for constructing components of the recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10 include: various polymeric compounds, such as polyolefins. Polyolefins include polyethylene, high density polyethylene, polypropylene, high density polypropylene, and combinations of polyethylene and polypropylene. The recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10 can also be formed from polymers, such as polyvinyl chloride, chlorinated polyvinyl chloride copolymers, various polyamides, polycarbonates, etc.
For any polymeric material employed in constructing the recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10, any conventional additive package can be included, such as: slip agents, anti-block agents, release agents, anti-oxidants, fillers, and plasticizers to control processing of the polymeric material or to stabilize and/or otherwise control the properties of the finished processed product. The additive can also be added to control hardness, bending resistance, and the like.
Common industry methods of forming such polymeric compounds will suffice to form non-metallic components of the recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10. Exemplary, but not limiting, of such processes are the various commonly-known plastics converting processes.
The recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10 can be manufactured as individual components. The individual components are then assembled as sub-assemblies, including but not limited to: the mounting assembly 12, the securing device 44, the recreational accessories 32, 32′, 32″, 33, 33′ and 33″, as well as others. Each of the aforementioned sub-assemblies is then assembled to other sub-assemblies to form the recreational accessory and mounting assembly 10.
While the invention has been described in conjunction with several specific embodiments, it is to be understood that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the aforegoing description. Accordingly, this invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations which fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
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| 20070256612 A1 | Nov 2007 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60797317 | May 2006 | US |
