Ramp

Abstract

A bow ramp for a boat is described; the bow ramp has a first part hinged to the boat at a first end; a second part hinged to the first part at a second end of the first part. The ramp also has raising and lowering means comprising: a wire on at least one side of the ramp. The wire is connected to both the first and second parts, and a motor for winding the wire is provided. The wire controls both the first and second parts during raising and lowering of the ramp. A method utilizing the ramp is also described.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of a ship with the bow ramp of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the wire cable of the bow ramp of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a side view of a ship with the bow ramp of the present invention, with the bow ramp fully open.

FIG. 4 is a side view of a ship with the bow ramp of the present invention, with the bow ramp partially open.

FIG. 5 is a further side view of a ship with the bow ramp of the present invention, with the bow ramp partially open.

FIG. 6 is a side view of a ship with the bow ramp of the present invention, with the bow ramp partially closed.

FIG. 7 is a side view of a ship with the bow ramp of the present invention, with the bow ramp fully closed.

Claims

1. A bow ramp for a boat comprising: a. a first part hinged to said boat at a first end;b. a second part hinged to said first part at a second end of said first part; andC. a raising and lowering means comprising at least a wire on one said of said ramp connected to both said first and second parts and a motor for winding said wire,

2. A bow ramp according to claim 1, wherein said second part is smaller and lighter than said first part.

3. A bow ramp according to claim 2, wherein said motor is an electric motor.

4. A bow ramp according to claim 2, wherein said motor is a diesel or petrol motor.

5. A bow ramp according to claim 2, wherein said wire is anchored to said first part.

6. A bow ramp according to claim 2, wherein said second part is hingable about 240 degrees.

7. A bow ramp according to claim 2, wherein said raising and lowering means comprises a wire and motor on both sides of said ramp.

8. A method of lowering a secured bow ramp as claimed in claim 2 comprising the steps of: a. tightening said wire to control said second part; andb. releasing said wire to lower said first part, said second part lowering on completion of the lowering of said first part.

9. A method of raising a lowered bow ramp as claimed in claim 2 comprising the steps of: a. tightening said wire to control said second part;b. tightening said wire to raise said first and second parts, said second part remaining fixed relative to said first part as said ramp is raised;c. securing said first part when fully raised; andd. releasing said wire to lower said second part to a secure position within said boat.