WATERCRAFT WITH INTERCHANGEABLE MODULES

Abstract

A watercraft and method of assembling thereof. The watercraft including a hull and a deck supported by the hull. The deck has an upper surface with support members connected to the deck. An interchangeable module rests on the upper surface of the deck. The interchangeable module has at least one of a seat and a storage compartment. The watercraft includes a mating member disposed on the interchangeable module and removably engages the support member.

Description

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

The present technology relates to watercraft and to interchangeable modules for watercraft.

BACKGROUND

A variety of boat configurations are offered to users for the same size and type of boat. Differently sized storage units, live-wells, and seating options may be arranged to provide a range of models for boats with the same deck size and hull type, filling the needs of a wide range of users. Currently, the furniture and functional assemblies are installed at factories and sent to a dealer where the boat is then provided to a user. In such boats, there is no ability to install or readily change the arrangement of the above-deck configuration by the dealer and/or the user once the boat leaves the factory.

In view of the foregoing, there is a desire for an alternative for to provide the dealer and/or the user to easily customize a watercraft.

SUMMARY

It is an object of the present technology to ameliorate at least some of the inconveniences present in the prior art.

According to one aspect of the present technology, there is provided a watercraft having a hull; a deck supported by the hull, the deck having an upper surface; a support member connected to the deck; an interchangeable module resting on the upper surface of the deck, the interchangeable module having at least one of: a seat; and a storage compartment; and a mating member disposed on the interchangeable module and removably engaging the support member.

In some embodiments, the support member comprises at least one bracket the at least one bracket being connected to the upper surface of the deck; the interchangeable module comprises a front edge; and the mating member is disposed on the front edge and is received in the at least one bracket.

In some embodiments, the at least one bracket is a Z-shaped bracket.

In some embodiments, the interchangeable module comprises a front edge and the mating member is disposed on the front edge.

In some embodiments, the support member comprises two brackets laterally spaced apart from one another; the interchangeable module comprises a front edge; the mating member extending across a majority of the of the front edge and being received in the two brackets.

In some embodiments, the deck comprises a rear portion; and the interchangeable module is disposed adjacent to the rigging area.

In some embodiments, the rear portion comprises a rigging area and the interchangeable module is disposed adjacent to the rigging area.

In some embodiments, the rigging area comprises a front wall having a rear face, the front wall defining an aperture; and the support member disposed on the rear face proximate the aperture; and the mating member extending through the aperture and is removably connected to the support member.

In some embodiments, the support member comprises a first right-angle bracket; and the mating member comprises a second right-angle bracket, fastened to the first right-angle bracket.

In some embodiments, the interchangeable module comprises a rear surface; the mating member is disposed on the rear surface of the interchangeable module; and the mating member extends rearwardly away from the rear surface.

In some embodiments, the aperture of the front wall is a first aperture; the support member is a first support member disposed proximate the first aperture; the mating member is a first mating member extending through the first aperture and being removably connected to the first support member; the front wall defines a second aperture laterally spaced from the first aperture; the rigging area comprises a second support member being disposed proximate the second aperture; and the interchangeable module comprises a second mating member extending through the second aperture and being removably connected to the second support member.

In some embodiments, the support member is a front support member connected to the upper surface of the deck; the mating member is a front mating member configured to removably engage the front support member; the deck comprises a rigging area; the rigging area comprises a rear support member connected to the rigging area; and the interchangeable module comprises a rear mating member configured to removably engage the rear support member.

In some embodiments, the interchangeable module extends laterally across a majority of the deck.

In some embodiments, the interchangeable module comprises a top surface defining three openings; at least two storage compartments disposed on opposing ends of the interchangeable module, a first of the two storage compartments being disposed beneath a first of the three openings, and a second of the two storage compartments being disposed beneath a second of the three openings; a live-well disposed laterally between the two storage compartments and beneath a third of the three openings; a door configured to selectively close the third of the three openings; and two seats, each of the two seats being connected to top surface and being disposed at opposing ends of the interchangeable module, a first of the two seats being configured to selectively close the first of the three openings; and a second of the two seats being configured to selectively close the second of the three openings.

In some embodiments, the interchangeable module comprises a top surface defining two openings; a first door connected to the interchangeable module and configured to selectively close a first of the two openings; a second door connected to the interchangeable module and configured to selectively close a second of the two openings; a live-well disposed beneath the two openings; and a bait bucket holder disposed in one of the two openings.

In some embodiments, the interchangeable module comprises a top surface defining two openings disposed at opposing ends of the interchangeable module; a live-well disposed beneath a first of the two openings; the storage compartment being disposed beneath a second of the two openings; and a second door connected to the interchangeable module and configured to selectively close the first of the two openings; and a second door connected to the interchangeable module and configured to selectively close the second of the two openings.

In some embodiments, the storage compartment comprises a live-well.

According to one aspect of the present technology, a method for assembling a watercraft is provided. The method comprises providing a deck; providing a support member on the deck selecting an interchangeable module from at least: a first interchangeable module; and a second interchangeable module; the first interchangeable module having a different configuration from the second interchangeable module, each of the first and second interchangeable modules having at least one of: a seat; and a storage compartment; in response to selecting the first interchangeable module: engaging a first mating member disposed on the first interchangeable module with the support member; in response to selecting the second interchangeable module: engaging a second mating member disposed on the second interchangeable module with the support member.

In some embodiments, the first interchangeable module and the second interchangeable module have the same width and the same length; and the first mating member and the second mating member are substantially identical.

In some embodiments, the deck comprises a rear portion and a rigging area disposed in the rear portion, the rigging area comprising: a front wall having a rear face, the front wall defining an aperture; and the support member being disposed on the rear face proximate the aperture; the method further comprising, in response to selecting the first interchangeable module: inserting the second mating member through the first aperture; and connecting the second mating member to the support member.

In some embodiments, selecting the interchangeable module from at least the first interchangeable module and the second interchangeable module comprises selecting the interchangeable module from at least: the first interchangeable module; the second interchangeable module; and a third interchangeable module having a different configuration from the first and second interchangeable modules, the third interchangeable module having at least one of: the seat; the storage compartment; and a live-well; and in response to selecting the third interchangeable module: engaging a third mating member disposed on the third interchangeable module with the support member, the third mating member being identical to the first and the second mating members.

According to one aspect of the present technology, a method for replacing an interchangeable module on a deck a watercraft is provided. The method comprising: disengaging a first mating member of a first interchangeable module from a support member provided on the deck; removing the first interchangeable module from the deck; placing a second interchangeable module on the deck, the second interchangeable module having a different configuration from the first interchangeable module; and engaging a second mating member of the first interchangeable module with the support member, the second mating member being substantially identical to the first mating member, each of the first and second interchangeable modules having at least one of: a seat; and a storage compartment.

In the context of the present specification, unless expressly provided otherwise, the words “first”, “second”, “third”, etc. have been used as adjectives only for the purpose of allowing for distinction between the nouns that they modify from one another, and not for the purpose of describing any particular relationship between those nouns.

It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

For purposes of this application, terms related to spatial orientation such as forward, rearward, upward, downward, left, and right, should be understood by a driver of a watercraft in which the watercraft is in a neutral trim position with the driver in a driving position.

Embodiments of the present technology each have at least one of the above-mentioned object and/or aspects, but do not necessarily have all of them. It should be understood that some aspects of the present technology that have resulted from attempting to attain the above-mentioned object may not satisfy this object and/or may satisfy other objects not specifically recited herein.

Additional and/or alternative features, aspects, and advantages of embodiments of the present technology will become apparent from the following description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a better understanding of the present technology, as well as other aspects and further features thereof, reference is made to the following description which is to be used in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, where:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a watercraft taken from a top, front, right side thereof;

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the watercraft of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the watercraft of FIG. 1 taken through line A-A of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the watercraft of FIG. 1 taken from a top, front, right side thereof, the watercraft having an interchangeable module;

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the watercraft of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the watercraft of FIG. 2 taken from a top, front side thereof with seats and console of the watercraft removed;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a rear portion of the watercraft of FIG. 2 taken from a top, front, right side thereof;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the watercraft of FIG. 4 taken through line Z-Z of FIG. 5;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the watercraft of FIG. 2 taken through line Y-Y of FIG. 6;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the interchangeable module of the watercraft of FIG. 4 taken from a top, rear right side thereof;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the watercraft of FIG. 4 taken through line X-X of FIG. 5;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the watercraft of FIG. 1 taken from a top, front, right side thereof, the watercraft having another interchangeable module;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the interchangeable module of FIG. 12 taken from a top, front, right side thereof;

FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the interchangeable module of FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 is a bottom plan view of the interchangeable module of FIG. 12;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the interchangeable module of FIG. 12 taken through line B-B of FIG. 14;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the interchangeable module of FIG. 4 taken from a top, front, right side;

FIG. 18 is a top plan view of the interchangeable module of FIG. 4;

FIG. 19 is a bottom plan view of the interchangeable module of FIG. 4;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the interchangeable module of FIG. 4 taken through line C-C of FIG. 18;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the watercraft of FIG. 1 taken from a top, front, right side thereof, the watercraft having another interchangeable module;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the another interchangeable module of FIG. 21 taken from a top, front, right side thereof;

FIG. 23 is a top plan view of the interchangeable module of FIG. 21;

FIG. 24 is a bottom plan view of the interchangeable module of FIG. 21;

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the interchangeable module of FIG. 21 taken through line D-D of FIG. 23;

FIG. 26 is a flow diagram depicting a method of assembling a watercraft with an interchangeable module; and

FIG. 27 is a flow diagram depicting a method for replacing an interchangeable module on a deck a watercraft.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A watercraft 10 in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology is shown in FIGS. 1 to 25. The following description relates to one example of a watercraft 10, notably a fishing boat 10, as seen in FIGS. 1 to 6. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that there are other known types of watercraft incorporating different designs and that the present technology would encompass these other watercraft.

With reference to FIGS. 1 to 6, the boat 10 has a deck 12 and a hull 14 supporting the deck 12. The deck 12 extends above the hull 14 and has a generally flat upper surface 16. The hull 14 has a hull body 18 with the deck 12 extending across the hull 14. As depicted in FIG. 3, the bottom 20 of the hull 14 is angled, forming a V-shape and has a keel 22. The keel 22 extends longitudinally along a centerline of the hull 14 (e.g., at the vertex of the hull 14) between a front end 24 and a back end 26. The keel 22 is fastened to the bottom 20 of the hull 14 by a plurality of fasteners 28 such as bolts, screws, etc.

The upper surface 16 of the deck 12 is configured to support occupants, as well as furniture and functional assemblies of the boat 10 such as seats 30, a command console 32, as well as any number of above-deck storage compartments, including side storage compartments 34 and rear storage compartments 36. It is also contemplated that one or more of the storage compartments 34, 36 could define a live well. In some embodiments, each of the side and rear storage compartments 34, 36 includes a door hingedly connected to a top surface of the respective storage compartment 34, 36 and a lock for selectively locking the door. It is contemplated, in other embodiments, that the storage compartments 34, 36 may be accessed by selectively removing a top panel of the storage compartments 34, 36. It is further contemplated, in other embodiments, that the storage compartments 34, 36 may remain open.

The boat 10 is configured to removably engage with any one of interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300. The boat 10 includes support members 44, 46 connected to the deck 12. The support members 44, 46 are configured to removably engage with mating members 48, 50 disposed on each of the interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 to enable a user or a boat dealer to customize the furniture and functional assemblies on the boat 10. The user or the dealer can select one of interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 which suits their needs and install the selected interchangeable module to the standard boat configuration after the boat 10 has arrived from the manufacturing factory. The interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 include at least one of a seat and a storage compartment which will be described in further detail below. It is contemplated that, in some embodiments, the storage compartment could define a live-well.

As depicted in FIGS. 4, 5, 10 and 12 to 25, each of the interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 are rectangular in shape. Each of the interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 have a top surface 102, 202, 302, a front surface 106, 206, 306, a rear surface 108, 208, 308, and two lateral surfaces 110, 210, 310. Each of the interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 are the same length and width to fit within the same space on the deck 12. It is contemplated, in other embodiments, interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 may be square, trapezoidal, or any other shape sized to fit within the boat 10. It is further contemplated that, in some embodiments, each of the interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 may include a bottom surface.

As seen in FIGS. 1 to 3 and 6 to 9, two support members 44 are connected to the upper surface 16 of the deck 12. In this embodiment, the two support members 44 are Z-shaped brackets 44, laterally spaced apart from one another. The Z-shaped brackets 44 are positioned in a rear portion 38 of the boat 10. Specifically, the two Z-shaped brackets 44 are connected to the upper surface 16 of the deck 12 in front of a rigging area 40 of the boat 10. In some embodiments, the Z-shaped brackets 44 are fastened to the upper surface 16 of the deck 12 via fasteners such as bolts, screws, etc. It is contemplated, in other embodiments, the brackets 44 may be welded or bonded to the upper surface 16 of the deck 12. It is further contemplated, in other embodiments, that the brackets 44, or other embodiments of the support members 44, could be formed integrally by the deck 12. It is further contemplated that more or fewer support members 44 could be provided.

With reference to FIGS. 8, 15, 19, and 24, a mating member 48 is disposed on a front edge 104, 204, 304 of each of the interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300, extending across a majority of the front edge 104, 204, 304. The mating member 48 is complementary in shape to the Z-shaped brackets 44 such that the mating member 48 removably engages with the Z-shaped brackets 44. Specifically, as seen in FIG. 8, the mating member 48 is L-shaped where a horizontal portion 54 of the L-shaped mating member 48 is received under a lip 56 of each of the Z-shaped brackets 44. The L-shaped mating member 48 is integral with the front edge 104, 204, 304 of each of the interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300. It is contemplated, in other embodiments, that the L-shaped mating member 48 may be a separate component fastened (e.g., via screws, bolts, etc.) or fixed (e.g., via welding or gluing) to the front edge 104, 204, 304. It is contemplated, in alternative embodiments, that the L-shaped mating member 48 may not extend across the majority of the front edge 104, 204, 304. Instead, two mating members 48 may be disposed on the front edge 104, 204, 304, laterally spaced apart from one another such that a respective L-shaped mating member 48 would removably engages with a respective Z-shaped support member 44, for example.

It is appreciated that alternative types of brackets may be used as the support members 44, for example C-shaped brackets, right-angle brackets, etc. and different configurations of the mating member 48 may be used, specifically a shape that is complementary to the support member 44.

With reference to FIGS. 6 to 9, and 11, the rigging area 40 includes two support members 46 disposed on a front wall 42 of the rigging area 40. The front wall 42 defines two apertures 58, laterally spaced apart from one another. The two support members 46 are disposed on a rear face 60 of the front wall 42, with each support member 46 being disposed proximate to one aperture 58. That is, a first support member 46 is proximate a first aperture 58 and a second support member 46 is proximate a second aperture 58. The two support members 46 are right-angle brackets 46 and disposed above the apertures 58. The right-angle brackets 46 are oriented such that a horizontal arm 62 is below a vertical arm 64 of the right-angle bracket 46. The right-angle brackets 46 are fastened to the rear face 60 via fasteners 65, such as screws, bolts, etc. It is contemplated that the right-angle brackets 46 may be fixed to the rear face 60 by welding or bonding. It is further contemplated that the right-angle brackets 46 may be formed integrally with the front wall 42 of the rigging area.

It is contemplated that, in alternative embodiments, the right-angle brackets 46 may be disposed in alternative orientations proximate the apertures 58. For example, the right-angle brackets 46 may be positioned below the apertures 58 and may be oriented such that the horizontal arm 62 is above the vertical arm 64.

FIG. 10 depicts two mating members 50 disposed on the rear surface 208 of the interchangeable module 200 and configured to removably engage with a respective right-angle bracket 46 of the rigging area 40. The two mating members 50 are right-angle brackets 50, laterally spaced apart from one another on the rear surface 208. The two right-angle brackets 50 of the interchangeable module 200 are oriented such that a horizontal arm 66, extending away from the rear surface 208 is above a vertical arm 68. It is appreciated that the two right-angle brackets 50 may have a different orientation. For example, in alternative embodiments, the horizontal arm 66 may be below the vertical arm 68. In some embodiments, the right-angle brackets 50 are fastened to the rear surface 208 via fasteners such as bolts, screws, etc. It is contemplated, in alternative embodiments, the right-angle brackets 50 may be fixed to the rear surface 208 via welding or bonding. It is further contemplated that, in other embodiments, the right-angle brackets 50 may be formed integrally with the rear surface 208. The interchangeable modules 100 and 300 have identical brackets 50 in the same position as on the interchangeable module 200.

The horizontal arm 66 of each of the right-angle brackets 50 are inserted into a respective aperture 58. That is, a horizontal arm 66 of the first right-angle bracket 50 is inserted into the first aperture and a horizontal arm 66 is the second right-angle bracket 50 is inserted into the second aperture 58. The horizontal arms 66 extend rearwardly into the apertures 58, and each horizontal arm 66 aligns with the respective horizontal arm 62 of the right-angle bracket 46 disposed on the rear face 60 proximate to the apertures 58. As seen in FIG. 11, fasteners 70 (e.g., screws or bolts) are used to connect the horizontal arms 62 of the right-angle brackets 46 on the rear face 60 to the horizontal arms 62 of the right-angle brackets 50 of the interchangeable module 200. It is contemplated that, in other embodiments, the horizontal arms 62, 66 may be secured using other means such as clips or anchors.

It is contemplated that, in alternative embodiments, the horizontal arms 62 of the right-angle brackets 50 disposed on the rear face 60 may be positioned such that each horizontal arm 62 extends forwardly through the respective aperture 58. It is further contemplated that, in other embodiments, the apertures 58 may be omitted and the right-angle brackets 46 may be disposed on a front face of the front wall 42.

It is appreciated that alternative types of brackets may be used as the support members 46, for example C-shaped brackets, U-shaped brackets, etc. Similarly, different types of brackets may be used as the mating members 50 which would allow for engagement between the chosen support member 46 shape.

As depicted in FIGS. 4, 5, 12, and 21, when the respective support members 44, 46 are engaged with the respective mating members 48, 50, the interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 are disposed at the rear portion 38 of the boat 10, adjacent to and in front of the rigging area 40. The interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 rests on the upper surface 16 of the deck 12 and extends laterally across a majority of the deck 12. As interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 are the same length and width, the interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 are configured to occupy the same space on the deck 12.

With reference to FIGS. 12 to 16, the interchangeable module 100 will now be described in further detail. The interchangeable module 100 includes two seats 112, two storage compartments 114, a live-well 116, and an accessory attachment 118.

The two seats 112 are identical to one another, positioned on opposing ends of the interchangeable module 100. With reference to FIG. 13, the two seats 112 are configured to switch between a folded configuration (right seat 112) and an unfolded configuration (left seat 112). When in the folded configuration, the periphery of the seat 112 does not extend past the periphery of the interchangeable module 100. In other words, a front edge 120 of each seat 112 does not protrude from the front surface 106 of the interchangeable module 100, a rear edge 122 of each seat 112 does not protrude from the rear surface 108 of the interchangeable module 100, and an outer edge 124 of each seat 112 does not protrude from the lateral surface 110 of the interchangeable module 100. Similarly, as seen in FIG. 13 for the right seat 112, when the seats 112 are in the folded configuration, a back 126 of each the seats 112 does not extend past the top surface 102 of the interchangeable module 100. It is contemplated that, in other embodiments, the seats 112 may be non-folding.

As depicted in FIG. 16, the two storage compartments 114 are disposed beneath a respective seat 112. That is, a first storage compartment 114 is disposed under a first seat 112 and a second storage compartment 114 is disposed under a second seat 112. Each of the storage compartments 114 have an opening 128 defined by the top surface 102. The opening 128 is covered by a respective seat 112. The seats 112 are configured to selectively open and close the storage compartments 114. When the seats 112 are in the folded configuration, the storage compartments 114 are closed. When the seats 112 are in an unfolded configuration the storage compartments 114 are opened. As seen in FIGS. 13 and 16, when the seats 112 are unfolded, the seats 112 raise upwards, providing an opening 130 in the front surface 112 of the interchangeable module 100. It is contemplated that, in some embodiments, a base of the seats 112 may be configured to hinge upwards for accessing the storage compartments 114.

The live-well 116 is positioned in between the two storage compartments 114 and two seats 112. An opening 132, defined by the top surface 102, provides access to the live-well 116. The opening 132 extends across a portion of the top surface 102. A door 134 is hingedly connected to the first module 100 for selectively opening and closing the opening 132 of the live-well 116. The door 134 has a handle 136. When closed, the door 134 is flush with the top surface 102. In some embodiments, the door 134 may include a locking mechanism. It is contemplated that, in other embodiments, the opening 132 of the live-well 116 may be selectively closed via a removable top panel instead of the door 134. It is further contemplated that the door 134 may be omitted.

In this embodiment, the accessory attachment 118 is a tow pylon attachment 118. The pylon attachment 118 disposed rearward of the opening 132 (and door 134) of the live-well 116. The tow pylon attachment 118 includes an opening 138 defined by the top surface 102 which is sized to receive a pole of a tow pylon. The end of the pole of the tow pylon is received in a tow pylon anchor 139 fixed to the hull 14. A portion 140 of the rear wall 142 of the live-well 116 is positioned inwardly to accommodate the tow pylon (as depicted in FIG. 10). It is contemplated, in alternative embodiments, the accessory attachment 118 may be configured to support other accessories, for example, a pedestal seat.

With reference to FIGS. 4, 5, and 17 to 20, the interchangeable module 200 will now be described in further detail. The interchangeable module 200 includes a live-well 212.

Two openings 214, defined by the top surface 204 of the interchangeable module 200 provides access to the live-well 212. Each of the openings 214 are disposed on opposing ends of the interchangeable module 200. The interchangeable module 200 includes two doors 216 hingedly connected to the second module 200 for selectively closing a respective opening 214. That is, a first door 216 selectively closes a first opening 214 and a second door 216 selectively closes a second opening 214. Each of the doors 216 includes a handle 218. When closed, the doors 216 are flush with the top surface 202. In some embodiments, each of the doors 216 may include a locking mechanism. It is contemplated, in other embodiments, the openings 214 of the live-well 212 may be selectively closed via removable top panels. It is further contemplated that the doors 216 may be omitted. It is contemplated that, in alternative embodiments, a single opening 214 may be defined by the top surface 202 to provide access to the live-well 212.

As depicted in FIG. 20, a bait bucket holder 220 is disposed in one of the two openings 214. It is contemplated that, in alternative embodiments, bait bucket holders 220 may be disposed in both openings 214. It is further contemplated that, in some embodiments, the bait bucket holder 220 may be omitted.

With reference to FIGS. 21 to 25, the interchangeable module 300 will now be described in further detail. The interchangeable module 300 includes a live-well 312 and a storage compartment 314.

The live-well 312 is defined by the interchangeable module 300 with the top surface 302 of the interchangeable module 300 defining an opening 314. The live-well 312 is disposed at one end of the interchangeable module 300.

The storage compartment 316 is defined by the interchangeable module 300 with the top surface 306 of the interchangeable module 300 defining a second opening 314. The storage compartment 316 is disposed at another end of the interchangeable module 300, opposite of the live-well 312.

The interchangeable module 300 includes two doors 318 hingedly connected to the interchangeable module 300 for selectively closing each of the openings 314. A first door 318 selectively closes the opening 314 associated with the live-well 312 and a second door 318 selectively closes the opening 314 of the storage compartment 316. Each of the doors 318 have handles 320. When the two doors 318 are closed, the doors 318 are flush with the top surface 302 of the interchangeable module 300. In some embodiments, the doors 318 may include a locking mechanism. It is contemplated that, in other embodiments, the openings 314 associated with the live-well 312 and the storage compartment 316 may be selectively closed via a removable top panel. It is contemplated that a single door 318 may be used to selectively close both the opening 314 to the live-well 312 and the opening 314 to the storage compartment 316. It is further contemplated that the doors 318 may be omitted.

Turning now to FIG. 26, a method 400 for assembling a boat with an interchangeable module will now be described. The boat 10 has the same or similar components as the boat 10 described above. The interchangeable module 100, 200, 300 may be the same or similar as the interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 described above, however it is contemplated that alternative configurations of the interchangeable module 100, 200, 300 may be provided. Broadly speaking, the interchangeable module 100, 200, 300 may include at least one of, or any combination of, a seat, a storage compartment, or a live-well. As such, a family of boats 10 each having different furniture and functional assemblies can be assembled using a limited number of components. As described above, using the support members 44, 46 connected to a deck 12 of the boat 10 and the mating members 48, 50 disposed on the interchangeable module 100, 200, 300 allows for this to be achieved.

The method 400 begins with providing the boat 10 having the deck 12 and step 402 of providing the support members 44, 46 on the deck 12. As previously described, in this embodiment, the support members are connected to the upper surface 16 of the deck 12. The support members 44 include two Z-shaped brackets 44 and two right-angle brackets 46. Thus, the method 400 includes connecting the two Z-shaped brackets 44 on an upper surface 16 of the deck 12. In some embodiments, the two Z-shaped brackets 44 are connected to the upper surface 16 via fasteners such as screws or bolts. It is contemplated, in other embodiments, the Z-shaped brackets 44 may be fixed to the upper surface 16 via welding or bonding. The method 400 includes connecting the two right-angled brackets 46 to a rear face 60 of a front wall 42 of a rigging area 40. Each of the two right-angle brackets 46 are connected above a respective aperture 58. In some embodiments, the right-angle brackets 46 may be connected via fasteners, such as screws or bolts. In alternative embodiments, the right-angle brackets 46 may be connected via welding or bonding.

The method 400 involves step 404 of selecting the interchangeable module from three interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 where each of the interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 having a different configuration, as previously described above.

In response to selecting the interchangeable module 100, the method 400 involves step 406 consisting of engaging mating members 48, 50 disposed on the interchangeable module 100, to the support members 44, 46. Specifically, engaging an L-shaped bracket 48, disposed along a front edge 104 of the interchangeable module 100 with the Z-shaped brackets 44 and two right-angle brackets 50, disposed on a rear surface 108 of the interchangeable module 100 to the respective right-angle brackets 46 disposed on the rear face 60 of the front wall 42.

In response to selecting the interchangeable module 200, the method 400 involves step 408 consisting of engaging mating members 48, 50 disposed on the interchangeable module 200, to the support members 44, 46. Specifically, engaging an L-shaped bracket 48, disposed along a front edge 204 of the interchangeable module 200 with the Z-shaped brackets 44 and the two right-angle brackets 50, disposed on a rear surface 108 of the interchangeable module 100 to the respective right-angle brackets 46 disposed on the rear face 60 of the front wall 42.

In response to selecting the interchangeable module 300, the method involves step 410 consisting of engaging mating members 48, 50 disposed on the second interchangeable module 300, to the support members 44, 46. Specifically, engaging the L-shaped bracket 48, disposed along a front edge 304 of the interchangeable module 300 with the Z-shaped brackets 44 and the two right-angle brackets 50, disposed on a rear surface 308 of the interchangeable module 300 to the respective right-angle rackets 46 disposed on the rear face 60 of the front wall 42.

In this embodiment, the Z-shaped brackets 44, the L-shaped mating member 48, the two right-angle brackets 46, and the two right-angle brackets 50 are identical between the three interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300. Further, the interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 are the same size as one another such that the interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 occupy the same space on the boat 10. As such, the user and/or the boat dealer can easily install and/or replace the interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300 to suit their needs.

When engaging the Z-shaped brackets 44 disposed on the upper surface 16 of the deck 12 and the L-shaped mating member 50 of the respective interchangeable module 100, 200, 300, a horizontal portion 54 of the L-shaped mating member 50 engages with a lip 56 of each of the Z-shaped brackets 44. Specifically, the horizontal portion 54 of the L-shaped mating member 50 is received under the lip 56 of each of the Z-shaped brackets 44.

When engaging the two right-angled brackets 46 disposed on the rear face 60 and the two right-angle brackets 50 of the respective interchangeable module 100, 200, 300, horizontal arms 62 of the two right-angle brackets 50 are inserted into apertures 58 defined by the front wall 42. That is, a horizontal arm 66 of the first right-angle bracket 50 is inserted into a first aperture 58 and a horizontal arm 66 of the second right-angle bracket 50 is inserted into a second aperture 58. The horizontal arms 66 of each of the right-angle brackets 50 are disposed proximate to respective horizontal arms 62 of the right-angle brackets 46 disposed on the rear face 60 of the front wall 42. Each set of horizontal arms 62, 66 are fastened together via fasteners such as bolts, screws, etc.

The respective support members 44, 46 and the respective mating members 48, 50 are configured to removably engage such that the interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300, can be easily disengaged, removed, and changed for a different interchangeable module.

With reference to FIG. 27, a method 500 for replacing one of the interchangeable modules 100, 200, 300, will now be described.

The method 500 involves step 502 of disengaging the current interchangeable module 100, 200, or 300 from the boat 10. When disengaging the interchangeable module 100, 200, or 300, each of the horizontal arms 62, 66 of the respective fastened right-angle brackets 46, 50 are unfastened from one another. In some embodiments, a bolt or screw is removed. The horizontal arms 66 of the two right-angle brackets 50 disposed on the interchangeable module 100, 200, 300 are withdrawn from the respective apertures 58. As the interchangeable module 100, 200, 300 is moved forward along the deck 12, the horizontal portion 54 of the L-shaped mating member 50 no longer engages the lip 56 of each of the Z-shaped brackets 44. The interchangeable module 100, 200, 300 may now be removed.

The method 500 involves step 504 consisting of removing the current interchangeable module 100, 200, of 300 from the boat 10.

The user and/or the boat dealer may then select an alternative interchangeable module 100, 200, 300, with a different configuration, to be installed as previously described. That is, at step 506, the alternative interchangeable module 100, 200, 300 is placed on the deck 12.

Step 508 involves engaging the support members 44, 46 and the mating members 48, 50, as previously described above.

Modifications and improvements to the above-described implementations of the present technology may become apparent to those skilled in the art. The foregoing description is intended to be exemplary rather than limiting. The scope of the present technology is therefore intended to be limited solely by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A watercraft comprising: a hull;a deck supported by the hull, the deck having an upper surface;a support member connected to the deck;an interchangeable module resting on the upper surface of the deck, the interchangeable module having at least one of: a seat; anda storage compartment; anda mating member disposed on the interchangeable module and removably engaging the support member.

2. The watercraft of claim 1, wherein: the support member comprises at least one bracket connected to the upper surface of the deck;the interchangeable module comprises a front edge; andthe mating member is disposed on the front edge and is received in the at least one bracket.

3. The watercraft of claim 2, wherein the at least one bracket is a Z-shaped bracket.

4. The watercraft of claim 1, wherein the deck comprises a rear portion and the interchangeable module is disposed at the rear portion.

5. The watercraft of claim 4, wherein the rear portion comprises a rigging area and the interchangeable module is disposed adjacent to the rigging area.

6. The watercraft of claim 5, wherein: the rigging area comprises: a front wall having a rear face, the front wall defining an aperture; andthe support member disposed on the rear face proximate the aperture; andthe mating member extends through the aperture and is removably connected to the support member.

7. The watercraft of claim 6, wherein: the support member comprises a first right angle bracket; andthe mating member comprises a second right angle bracket, fastened to the first right angle bracket.

8. The watercraft of claim 6, wherein: the interchangeable module comprises a rear surface;the mating member is disposed on the rear surface of the interchangeable module; andthe mating member extends rearwardly away from the rear surface.

9. The watercraft of claim 6, wherein: the aperture of the front wall is a first aperture;the support member is a first support member disposed proximate the first aperture;the mating member is a first mating member extending through the first aperture and being removably connected to the first support member;the front wall defines a second aperture laterally spaced from the first aperture;the rigging area comprises a second support member being disposed proximate the second aperture; andthe interchangeable module comprises a second mating member extending through the second aperture and being removably connected to the second support member.

10. The watercraft of claim 1, wherein: the support member is a front support member connected to the upper surface of the deck;the mating member is a front mating member configured to removably engage the front support member;the deck comprises a rigging area;

11. The watercraft of claim 1, wherein the interchangeable module extends laterally across a majority of the deck.

12. The watercraft of claim 1, wherein the interchangeable module comprises: a top surface defining three openings;at least two storage compartments disposed on opposing ends of the interchangeable module,

13. The watercraft of claim 1, wherein the interchangeable module comprises: a top surface defining two openings;a first door connected to the interchangeable module and configured to selectively close a first of the two openings;a second door connected to the interchangeable module and configured to selectively close a second of the two openings;

14. The watercraft of claim 1, wherein the interchangeable module comprises: a top surface defining two openings disposed at opposing ends of the interchangeable module;a live-well disposed beneath a first of the two openings;the storage compartment being disposed beneath a second of the two openings;a first door connected to the interchangeable module and configured to selectively close the first of the two openings; anda second door connected to the interchangeable module and configured to selectively close the second of the two openings.

15. The watercraft of claim 1, wherein the storage compartment comprises a live-well.

16. A method for assembling a watercraft the method comprising: providing a deck;providing a support member on the deck;

17. The method of claim 16, wherein: the first interchangeable module and the second interchangeable module have the same width and the same length; andthe first mating member and the second mating member are substantially identical.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein the deck comprises: a rear portion; anda rigging area disposed in the rear portion, the rigging area comprising: a front wall having a rear face, the front wall defining an aperture; andthe support member being disposed on the rear face proximate the aperture;the method further comprising: in response to selecting the first interchangeable module: inserting the first mating member through the first aperture;connecting a first mating member to the support member; in response to selecting the second interchangeable module: inserting the second mating member through the first aperture; and

19. The method of claim 16, wherein: selecting the interchangeable module from at least the first interchangeable module and the second interchangeable module comprises: selecting the interchangeable module from at least: the first interchangeable module;the second interchangeable module; anda third interchangeable module having a different configuration from the first and second interchangeable modules, the third interchangeable module having at least one of:

20. A method for replacing an interchangeable module on a deck a watercraft, the method comprising: disengaging a first mating member of a first interchangeable module from a support member provided on the deck;removing the first interchangeable module from the deck;placing a second interchangeable module on the deck, the second interchangeable module having a different configuration from the first interchangeable module; andengaging a second mating member of the first interchangeable module with the support member, the second mating member being substantially identical to the first mating member,