High-Performance Watercraft

Abstract

A quick connect system for a boat connects the deck of the boat to the hull of the boat. The deck sits on top of the hull. The hull is preferably inflatable, and preferably in two opposing, symmetrical hull sections being a left hull and a right hull. Each hull preferably has two parallel inflatable tubes that extend from the rear of the hull to the front. The deck is preferably a multi-piece system having a spaced apart front deck rear deck. An elevated casting platform extends between the deck sections and is supported by legs. The hull and deck have a series of aligned rigid tube receivers and loops that receive a series of rails. The rails are slideable into the loops and rigid tube receivers to secure the deck to the keel, and to provide a quick mechanism to disassemble the deck from the tubes.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The disclosure relates to the field of a high performance watercraft, in particular to a modular skiff type watercraft having a series of planar decks, and an attachment system for attaching one or more decks to a hull system. Particular embodiments relate to a skiff style boat having a unique quick assembly system allowing for quick assembly and disassembly of the skiff.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Skiffs are popular fishing watercraft. Skiffs typically are small watercraft or boats that are often used for fishing. Skiffs can be used with a motor, and also can be propelled with a pole for stealth movement through the water. Preferably skiffs have an elevated area for a boater to fish from. Skiffs are often not left in the water, but transporting a skiff often involves loading the skiff onto a trailer or in the back of a vehicle. This takes time with typical skiffs known to the inventor. What is needed is an improved skiff that allows for quick assembly and disassembly of the frame system to the hull, and that allows for easy portability.

SUMMARY

The purpose of the Summary is to enable the public, and especially the scientists, engineers, and practitioners in the art who are not familiar with patent or legal terms or phraseology, to determine quickly from a cursory inspection, the nature and essence of the technical disclosure of the application. The Summary is neither intended to define the inventive concept(s) of the application, which is measured by the claims, nor is it intended to be limiting as to the scope of the inventive concept(s) in any way.

The disclosure provides for lightweight, portable fishing boat. In a preferred embodiment the boat is part inflatable and part composite. In alternate preferred embodiments the hull is made from a composite, buoyant structure. With its unique integrated casting platform & decking, anglers are elevated giving them a better advantage catching fish. The boat can be assembled or disassembled without any tools due to a unique quick connect/disconnect system. In the preferred embodiments the boat is easily disassembled into six components and can be easily transported to the water and stored without the need for a trailer. In a preferred embodiment the boat has a capacity of 1-2 persons and is powered by a small outboard motor (up to 25 hp), although the boat can be configured in varying sizes and capacities utilizing the inventive concepts disclosed herein.

The hull of the boat can be formed as a series of inflatable air chambers, or as a molded buoyant hull. The embodiment depicted in the figures utilizes a series of pontoon style tubes connected into two spaced apart opposing hull components. In the depicted embodiment the hull components can be individually non-symmetrical, but each opposing hull component is symmetrical of the other. In the depicted embodiment each of the opposing hull components (a right hull and left hull) has two elongate parallel inflatable tubes connected to provide a planar hull, although a single inflatable tube or more than two inflatable tubes can be used for each hull. Each inflatable tube preferably comprising two or more air chambers separated by a baffle to provide a safety mechanism to prevent an entire tube from deflating if a breach of one air chamber occurs. The innermost air tube in the depicted embodiment is shorter than the outermost tubes, with dimensions in the preferred embodiment being 12″ diameter×156″ length for the large tubes and the medium tubes being 12″×111″. Alternate diameter tubes can be used, including for example a 10″ diameter tube. Each tube is preferably the same diameter when inflated. An inflatable elongate keel is positioned beneath the inflatable hull, with

Preferably each hull section has one or more keels extending below the hull. In the above illustrated embodiment, each hull component has one inflatable keel positioned on the underside of each hull section. Each keel extends below the lowest point of the larger tubes to lift the tubes and create less drag while the boat is traveling on plane, as well as to assist the boat in tracking straight while on plane, drifting, or during use of the trolling motor or poling the boat, and in light turning. Preferably each keel is positioned in the space beneath the adjacent circumference of each aligned cylindrical tube.

In a preferred embodiment the boat has a three component deck bridge system having a rear deck (3), a front deck (1), and a raised casting platform (2). In the depicted embodiment the rear deck is 48″×48″, the front deck is 16″×48″, and the raised casting platform is 63″×30″. Preferably the front deck and rear deck are constructed of fiberglass, although a plastic, composite, or aluminum material can be utilized. Alternatively the front and/or rear decking can be a drop stitch inflatable construction. Preferably the each section of will be covered with anti-slip marine grade EVA foam. The casting deck also has a removable grab rail in a preferred embodiment. Preferably the casting platform is constructed aluminum in whole or in part, with preferably at least the top (standing) surface of the platform being aluminum, and the top surface can be configured to provide enhanced traction to a person standing on the surface.

Preferably the rear deck 3 has a raised seat or platform. The raised seat is configured such that a user can sit on the seat, or stand on the seat for using a pole to propel the boat typically in shallow water. The seat and support legs can be constructed of aluminum and/or fiberglass or alternate materials. The seat in the embodiment depicted in paragraph is positioned near the motor mount to allow a user to sit on the seat and control a tiller controlled motor.

In a preferred embodiment the raised casting platform has a series of legs that each attach to a mounting bracket positioned on the front deck or rear deck. The mounting bracket is configured for insertion of the post into a sleeve of the mounting bracket, with a connector such as a removable pin securing each leg in each connector. The mounting bracket can be integrally formed with each deck component, or as an mounting bracket attached to each component by a flange extending perpendicular to the sleeve, with the flange connected to a top surface of the deck

The raised casting deck is preferably constructed entirely of aluminum but can also be made with fiberglass top and an aluminum frame. The casting platform preferably includes an integrated bow mount trolling motor reinforcement plate for secure mounting of a trolling motor. Preferably the casting platform has a removable grab rail for a user to hold or grab while standing on the casting platform.

The deck, or deck components, is configured to attach to the hull component(s) by a quick connect system. The quick connect system utilized a series of loops, preferably fabric, attached to the top of the hull.

A series of rigid tube receivers is positioned on the bottom side of the deck, or on the individual deck components such as the front deck panel and rear deck panel discussed above. The rigid tube receivers are preferably constructed from either metal or fiberglass, although alternate materials can be used. The air tubes are preferably constructed from either PVC or Hypalon fabric, although alternate materials can be utilized.

The deck is positioned on top of the hull, with the loops and rigid tube receivers configured to align such that a series or rods can be positioned through the loops and rigid tube receivers to secure the deck to the top of the hull. The rods are then slid through the rigid tube receivers and loops to connect the deck to the hull. Following assembly of the deck platform(s) to the hull, the casting platform can then be attached to the deck platforms, completing assembly of the skiff. Alternatively the frame can be assembled, then attached to the hull.

Preferably the air tubes are not completely inflated when the deck and quick release system are assembled onto the hull. After the elongate rails are installed, the hull is fully inflated, adding compression between the tubes, rails, and deck system. This secures the rails in place, preventing the rails from sliding out while in use. To disassemble the system, the tubes are deflated from full inflation levels, allowing the rails to be removed.

Still other features and advantages of the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description describing preferred embodiments of the inventive concept(s), simply by way of illustration of the best mode contemplated by carrying out the inventive concept(s). As will be realized, the inventive concept(s) is capable of modification in various obvious respects all without departing from the inventive concept(s). Accordingly, the drawings and description of the preferred embodiments are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive in nature

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a high performance boat having three piece deck system attached to a hull system by a quick connect system.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side isometric view of an assembled frame being positioned on the hull.

FIG. 3 illustrates the rails being slide into the loops and rigid tube receivers of the quick connect assemble.

FIG. 4 illustrates a top isometric view of the embodiment of the invention depicted in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 illustrates a bottom isometric view of the invention as depicted in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6A illustrates a side isometric view of the invention as depicted in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6B illustrates a second side view of the invention as depicted in FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 illustrates a view showing the relationship of the rigid tube receivers and loops as well as the port legs and anchors for connecting the casting platform to each deck of the depicted embodiment.

FIG. 8 illustrates an prospective view of an assembled frame of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of the assembled frame of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10A illustrates a side isometric view of the assembled frame of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10B illustrates a second side isometric view of the assembled frame of FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 illustrates a back view of the assembled frame of FIG. 8.

FIG. 12 illustrates a front view of assembled frame of FIG. 8.

FIG. 13 illustrates a bottom view of assembled frame of FIG. 8.

FIG. 14 illustrates the top perspective view of assembled hull system having a left hull and right hull being symmetrical.

FIG. 15 illustrates a top view of the hull system of FIG. 14.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While the presently disclosed inventive concept(s) is susceptible of various modifications and alternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments thereof have been shown in the drawings and will be described below in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the inventive concept(s) to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the inventive concept(s) as defined in the claims.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of an assembled water craft according to the inventive concepts disclosed herein. FIG. 1 illustrates the water craft 2 having a hull system fore and a deck system 6. The deck system has a front section 8 and a rear deck section 9. An elevated casting platform 28 extends between the front deck section and rear deck section. The hull system 4 utilizes two opposing hull sections 11, 13, called a left hull and a right hull. The two opposing hull sections are mirror images of one another to provide stability and improved tracking in the water. In the depicted embodiment the hull sections are each composed of two parallel inflatable elongate air tubes 12, 14, 16, 18. Each hull section is made up of an outer air tube 12, 18 that is longer than an inner air tube 14, 16. Each air tube is an elongate cylindrical shape, with the front of each air tube tapered to provide improved maneuverability, while the rear is depicted not tapered.

The depicted deck system has a forward deck 8 and a rear deck 9. A casting platform 28 extends between the rear deck and the forward deck. The casting platform is connected to each of these deck sections using a post and anchor mechanism. The anchor bracket is affixed to the deck sections. A series of posts 30 affixed to the underside of the casting platform are inserted into the cups of the anchors 32. The anchor and post each have a through hole 33 that align and configured for positioning therethrough of a bolt or a pin to secure the post in the bracket.

The deck system is attached to each opposing hull of the hull system by a quick release system. The quick release system in the depicted embodiment utilizes a series of rigid tube receivers 25 attached to the deck sections. These rigid tube receivers are align-able with a series of loops 24 attached to each hull section. A series of rails 26 is configured to slide through the aligned loops and rigid tube receivers to secure the deck system to the hulls. The deck system and hull system can then be easily detached by removing the rods.

The rear platform in the depicted embodiment utilizes a seat or stand 52 that is affixed to the rear platform. The seat is attached in the depicted embodiment by a series of posts that attach to a series of anchors attached to the rear deck platform. A motor mount 42 is further provided attached to the rear of the rear platform. The depicted embodiment seat is affixed to the rear deck section by a post and anchor attachment as set forth in attaching the casting platform to the front and rear deck sections. A handle 44 extends upward from the casting platform to provide a grasping area for a person to grasp while the person is standing on the casting platform.

FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate the process of positioning an assembled frame system onto the hull. In the depicted embodiment the frame is preferable assembled first, although the individual rear and front deck components can be positioned on the hull system. FIG. 2 illustrates the assembled deck system being positioned onto the hull sections The vertical arrows 50 indicate the frame system is positioned onto the hull 5.

FIG. 3 illustrates the step of assembly in which the rails are inserted into the aligned rigid tube receivers of the deck system and loops of the hull system. Arrows 43 illustrate the insertion of the rods into the aligned loops and rigid tube receivers of the deck system and hull. The rods are configured to be easily inserted and removed in order to provide for a quick connect system of the deck system to the hull.

FIG. 3 illustrates rods 61, 63, 65, 67, 69, 71 being positioned into the aligned forward loops of the hull system with the aligned rigid tube receivers of the front deck platform. Rails 73, 75, 77, 79, 81, 83 are slid into aligned loops and rigid tube receivers of the rear deck platform and rear loops of the two opposing hulls. Arrows 42, 43 indicate the direction of placement of the rods into the quick connect system. The rigid tube receivers of the frame system are shown in further detail in FIGS. 8-13. The loops of the symmetrical hull sections are shown in further detail in FIGS. 14 and 15.

FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of the frame system 3 positioned on the hull system 5. FIG. 5 illustrates a bottom view of the assembled water craft. The opposing hull sections 11, 13 are made of parallel elongate inflatable tubes 12, 14 and 16, 18. The front of the water craft 100 utilizes tubes that narrow to a point for improved agility in the water. The rear of the tube 102 has more rounded tubes. The outer most tubes 12, 18 are longer than the inner tubes 14, 16. The inner most 14, 16 are positioned apart such that a gap exists between tubes 14, 16. Two inflatable keels 20, 22 are positioned beneath the boat and provide keels for stabilizing the boat in the wind as well as under motor propulsion.

FIG. 6A illustrates a first side view of the assembled water craft. FIG. 6B illustrates a second side view of the assembled water craft.

FIG. 7 illustrates a close up view of aligned rigid tube receivers 25 and loops, as well as the posts and anchors affixing the casting platform to the deck sections, and the seat to the deck section. The loops are affixed to the hull to secure the removal rods to the hull system. The rigid tube receivers are affixed to the forward and rear deck platforms. The casting platform 28 is supported by leg 30 which is positioned with an anchor bracket 32. A pin 31 secures the leg within the anchor bracket. FIG. 8 illustrates a prospective view of the assembled embodiment of the frame system. The forward platform 8 and rear deck platform 9 are positioned in a spaced apart relationship. The casting platform 28 extends between the front deck and the rear deck. The quick connect rigid tube receivers are affixed to the rear deck and forward deck and are positioned in a spaced apart relationship such that the loops of the hull system can be spaced apart the air tubes to allow for alignment of the rods and tubes for positioning therethrough of the rods.

FIG. 9 illustrates a top symmetric view of the assembled frame system of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10A illustrates a first side view of the assembled frame system of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10B illustrates a second side view of the assembled frame system of FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 illustrates a rear view of the assembled frame system. The quick connect tubes 25 extend beneath and to the side of the rear deck panels. FIG. 12 illustrates a front view of the assembled frame system.

FIG. 12 illustrates the positioning of the alignment tubes 25 extending from the bottom and side of the front deck panel.

FIG. 13 illustrates a bottom view of the assembled frame system. FIG. 13 shows tubes 25 positioned in three aligned locations on each side of the assembled frame system to correspond to three series of loops on each of the opposing hull sections. Each grouping of three assembled tubes 111, 113 provides alignment such that a rod secures each side of the rear deck platform and three rods secure each side of the front deck platform. The casting platform is shown extending beyond the front deck platform.

FIG. 14 is a top prospective view of the hull system of the depicted embodiment. Each inflatable tube has secured to it at least one series of loops. In the depicted embodiment the outer most hull tubes have one series of loops 127. The inner hull tubes 14, 16 each has two series of loops 129, 131 that are aligned. FIG. 15 illustrates a top view of the hull system showing the aligned loops of the elongate tubes.

FIGS. 14 and 15 depict the left and right hull sections and the loops extending from each hull section for securing the deck system to the hull system. Each hull is comprised of two parallel inflatable air tubes 12, 14, 16, 18. A series of loops extends off the top side of each of the inflatable tube for securing the hull system and deck system together. While two inflatable tubes are illustrated, the hull system can be constructed from rigid material or additional air tubes can be utilized to form each hull section.

While certain preferred embodiments are shown in the figures and described in this disclosure, it is to be distinctly understood that the presently disclosed inventive concept(s) is not limited thereto but may be variously embodied to practice within the scope of the following claims. From the foregoing description, it will be apparent that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A watercraft having a quick connect system for attaching a watercraft hull to a deck of the watercraft, said quick connect system comprising: a series of loops attached to a top surface of said watercraft hull;a plurality of rigid tube receivers attached to the deck, wherein said series of loops and said series of rigid tube receivers are aligned when said boat deck is positioned on said boat hull; anda plurality of elongate rails extending through the aligned rigid tube receivers and loops to connect said boat deck to said boat hull, wherein said plurality of elongate rails are configured to slide out of said rigid tube receivers and loops to release said boat deck from said boat hull.

2. The watercraft of claim 1 wherein said boat hull comprises an inflatable hull.

3. The watercraft of claim 2 wherein said boat hull comprises a left hull and a right hull positioned in a spaced apart and parallel orientation, wherein said left hull and said right hull are symmetrical.

4. The watercraft of claim 3 wherein said left hull and said right hull each comprises two attached parallel elongate inflatable tubes, wherein each of said left hull and said right hull comprises a keel attached to a bottom side of each hull.

5. The watercraft of claim 4 wherein said keel is inflatable.

6. The watercraft of claim 1 wherein said boat deck comprises two spaced apart deck sections, wherein each of said deck sections is connected to said hull by said rails, wherein an elevated casting platform extends between said deck sections.

7. The watercraft of claim 1 wherein said boat hull comprises a left hull and a right hull, wherein said left hull and right hull are symmetrical and are positioned in parallel.

8. The watercraft of claim 6, wherein said elevated casting platform comprises a series of posts extending from a bottom face of said casting platform, wherein said deck sections comprises a series of anchors for receiving said posts to attach said elevated casting platform to said deck sections.

9. The quick connect system of claim 1 wherein said deck comprises an elevated seat.

10. The quick connect system of claim 1 wherein said deck comprises a motor mount.

11. The quick connect system of claim 1 wherein said deck comprises a grasping handle.

12. The quick connect system of claim 1 wherein said hull comprises a series of inflatable tubes.

13. A deck system for a boat, said deck system being configured for removable attachment to a hull, said deck system comprising: A forward platform and a rear platform, said forward platform and rear platform each comprising a planar shape and being is a spaced apart relationship;A raised casting platform, said casting platform extending above and between said forward platform and said rear platform, said casting platform having a front leg supporting said casting platform and attached to said front platform, and a rear leg supporting said casting platform and removably attached to said rear platform.