U.S. patent application number 11/527812 was filed with the patent office on 2008-03-27 for hatch assembly with storage and audio arrangement.
This patent application is currently assigned to Crown Line Boats, Inc.. Invention is credited to Evan D. Forbes, Karlis Matvejs, Kevin J. Riem.
Application Number | 20080072810 11/527812 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39223551 |
Filed Date | 2008-03-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080072810 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Forbes; Evan D. ; et
al. |
March 27, 2008 |
Hatch assembly with storage and audio arrangement
Abstract
A hatch assembly for a boat including a body pivotally attached
to a boat deck, whereby the body can pivot between an open position
and closed position to provide access to an power source within a
boat hull. The body includes an audio device and a compartment for
storage. A cover pivotally attaches to the body, whereby the cover
can pivot from an open position to a closed position to provide
access to the storage bin and partially cover the audio device. A
seating area extends across an interior portion of the body and has
a removeable portion that removes to create an entryway to the deck
of the boat.
Inventors: |
Forbes; Evan D.; (Raleigh,
IL) ; Matvejs; Karlis; (Marion, IL) ; Riem;
Kevin J.; (Marion, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
POLSTER, LIEDER, WOODRUFF & LUCCHESI
12412 POWERSCOURT DRIVE SUITE 200
ST. LOUIS
MO
63131-3615
US
|
Assignee: |
Crown Line Boats, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
39223551 |
Appl. No.: |
11/527812 |
Filed: |
September 27, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
114/201R |
Current CPC
Class: |
B63B 19/14 20130101;
B63B 25/002 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
114/201.R |
International
Class: |
B63B 19/14 20060101
B63B019/14 |
Claims
1. A hatch assembly for a boat, comprising: a body associated with
a rear portion of a boat deck, the body having at least one
compartment; at least one cover member moveably attached to the
body, the cover member being capable of moving between an open
position and a closed position, the cover defining at least one
opening to the compartment in the closed position; and at least one
audio device mounted within the compartment to project sound
through the at least one opening.
2. The hatch assembly of claim 1, further comprising: at least one
portion within the compartment that is capable of being completely
covered by the at least one cover member for securing contents
therein.
3. The hatch assembly of claim 1, further comprising: at least one
portion within the compartment being sized to receive at least one
boat fender.
4. The hatch assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a seating
area across the body, the seating area having at least one
removable portion that can be removed to provide an entryway to the
deck of the boat.
5. The hatch assembly of claim 1, wherein the audio device is a
loudspeaker.
6. The hatch assembly of claim 1, further comprising at least one
guard member associated with the at least one opening.
7. The hatch assembly of claim 1, wherein the body is moveably
attached to the boat deck, the body being capable of moving between
an open position and a closed position to provide access to a boat
hull.
8. The hatch assembly of claim 7, further comprising: a lift
operatively connected between a power source and the body, the lift
being capable of moving the hatch assembly between an open and
closed position.
9. A hatch assembly for a boat, comprising: a body associated with
a boat deck; at least one audio device mounted within a recess of
the body; and at least one cover member moveably attached to the
body, the cover member being capable of moving between an open
position to provide access to the at least one audio device and a
closed position that at least partially covers the recess to
provide at least one opening for the at least one audio device to
emit sound aft therethorugh.
10. The hatch assembly of claim 9, further comprising: at least one
compartment that is capable of being completely covered by the at
least one cover member for securing contents therein. 11. The hatch
assembly of claim 10, further comprising: at least one portion
within the compartment being sized to receive at least one boat
fender.
12. The hatch assembly of claim 9, further comprising: a seating
area across the body, the seating area having at least one
removable portion that can be removed to provide an entryway to the
deck of the boat.
13. The hatch assembly of claim 9, wherein the audio device is a
loudspeaker.
14. The hatch assembly of claim 9, further comprising at least one
guard member associated with the at least one opening.
15. The hatch assembly of claim 9, wherein the body is moveably
attached to the boat deck, the body being capable of moving between
an open position and a closed position to provide access to a boat
hull.
16. The hatch assembly of claim 15, further comprising: a lift
operatively connected between a power source and the body, the lift
being capable of moving the hatch assembly between an open position
and a closed position.
17. A boat comprising: a deck; and a hatch assembly on the deck,
the hatch assembly having a body moveably attached to the deck, the
body being capable of moving between an open position and closed
position to provide access to a boat hull, the hatch assembly
having at least one audio device mounted within a recess of the
body and at least one cover member moveably attached to the body,
the cover member being capable of moving between an open position
to provide access to the audio device and a closed position that
partially covers the recess to provide at least one opening for the
at least one audio device to emit sound therethrough.
18. The hatch assembly of claim 17, further comprising: at least
one compartment that is capable of being completely covered by the
at least one cover member for securing contents therein.
19. The hatch assembly of claim 18, further comprising: at least
one portion within the compartment being sized to receive at least
one boat fender.
20. The hatch assembly of claim 17, further comprising: a seating
area across the body, the seating area having at least one
removable portion that can be removed to provide an entryway to the
deck of the boat.
21. The hatch assembly of claim 17, wherein the audio device is a
loudspeaker.
22. The hatch assembly of claim 17, further comprising: a lift
operatively connected between a power source and the body, the lift
being capable of moving the hatch assembly between an open position
and a closed position.
23. The boat of claim 17, further comprising: at least one strut
pivotally connected between the body and the cover.
24. The boat of claim 17, wherein the body seats on a recessed edge
of the deck.
25. The boat of claim 17, further comprising at least one guard
member associated with the at least one opening.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Not Applicable.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH
[0002] Not Applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] This invention relates in general to boats and boat decks,
and more particularly, to boat deck hatches. Most modern boats
include numerous conveniences that make boating a pleasurable
experience. Among these conveniences are flexible seating
arrangements, large storage bins, and various accessories, such as
audio equipment. However, due to the limited space available on
boats, including these conveniences can take away valuable deck
space from other more necessary boat components, such as a boat
hatch that allows access to an inboard motor. Therefore, it is
important to configure all boating components, necessary and
convenient, in a configuration that maximizes deck and storage
space.
[0004] Some accessories, such as audio equipment, are susceptible
to damage from exposure to the outdoor elements and, in particular,
exposure to water. Therefore, it is also important that boat deck
configurations provide some protection from the elements to
vulnerable components, while still allowing the components to be
easily accessible and function properly.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] In the accompanying drawings which form part of the
specification:
[0006] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of a boat with a hatch
assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0007] FIG. 2 is an overhead perspective view of the stern of the
boat with the hatch assembly in the closed position;
[0008] FIG. 3 is an overhead perspective view of the stern of the
boat with the hatch assembly in the open position and the removable
portion of a seating area removed;
[0009] FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the stern of the boat
with hatch assembly with cover members in the open position;
[0010] FIG. 5 is an overhead plan view of the hatch assembly;
[0011] FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of the hatch assembly;
[0012] FIG. 7 is a side elevation view of the hatch assembly;
[0013] FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of the hatch assembly;
and
[0014] FIG. 9 is an overhead plan view of an alternate embodiment
of the hatch assembly.
[0015] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding
parts throughout the several figures of the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0016] The following detailed description illustrates the invention
by way of example and not by way of limitation. The description
clearly enables one skilled in the art to make and use the
invention, describes several embodiments, adaptations, variations,
alternatives, and uses of the invention, including what is
presently believed to be the best mode of carrying out the
invention. Additionally, it is to be understood that the invention
is not limited in its application to the details of construction
and the arrangements of components set forth in the following
description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is
capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being
carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the
phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of
description and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0017] As shown in FIGS. 1-7, an embodiment of the present
invention, referred to generally as a hatch assembly 10 for a boat
A, includes a body 12 pivotally attached to a boat deck B with
hinges 14. The body 12 can pivot from a closed position (FIG. 2),
which forms a contiguous seating area 16 across the stern of the
boat A, to an open position (FIG. 3), which provides access to an
inboard motor C mounted within the boat hull D at the stern of the
boat A. A posterior portion 18 of the body 12 includes a pair of
storage compartments 20 (FIG. 4) with a corresponding pair of cover
members 22, which are pivotally attached to the body 12 with hinges
24. The cover members 22 can pivot from a closed position (FIG. 1),
which defines an opening 26 into the storage compartment between
the cover members 22 and the body 12, to an open position, which
provides access to the storage compartments 20 (FIG. 4). An audio
device, such as a loudspeaker 28, is positioned within each storage
compartment 20 to emit sound outwardly through the opening 26. The
loudspeaker 28 is operatively connected to an electrical device,
such as a stereo receiver, CD player, iPod.RTM., microphone, and
the like to provide sound signals. While the illustrated embodiment
shows a pair of compartments, it is understood that any number of
compartments can be used, including one.
[0018] From an overhead plan view (FIG. 5), the body 12 is
generally rectangular shaped to correspond with the shape of an
opening 30 defined by the deck B (FIG. 3). A recessed edge 32 along
the opening 30 seats with the body 12 and defines a channel 34 that
works as a drip rail to prevent water from dripping into the hull
D. Recessed edge 32 collects water and routes or directs water away
from the deck opening 30. From a side elevation view (FIG. 7), the
body 12 includes a generally L-shaped anterior portion 36, which
corresponds to a step-up area 38 in the boat deck B. The body 12
also includes the arcuately shaped posterior portion 18, which
corresponds to the upper stern 42 of the boat A. A generally
horizontal planar section 44 extends transversely through the
midsection of the posterior portion 18.
[0019] For additional comfort to passengers, the anterior portion
36 supports padded side seat members 46, side backrests 48, and a
removable center seat member 50. The side seat members 46, side
backrests 48 are attached by any appropriate means, such as
fasteners or adhesive. The center seat member 50 can be secured
between the side seat members 46 with a friction fit. However, any
appropriate means can be used for securing the center seat member
50, such as Velcro.RTM.. Alternatively, the center seat member can
be fixedly attached to the anterior portion 36 with an appropriate
means, such as adhesive or fasteners. A removable padded center
backrest 52 has brackets 54 extending from the bottom that engage
with holes 56 in the planar section 44 of the body 12 (FIG. 4). The
brackets 54 include engagement members 58 at the ends, such as
spring-loaded detents, that provide positive engagement with holes
56. However, other engagement members 58 can be used, which
includes but is not limited to the detachable backrest brackets
manufactured by GG Schmitt & Sons. When assembled, the center
seat member 50 and center backrest 52 are aligned with the side
seat members 46 and side backrests 48 to form the contiguous
seating area 16 (FIG. 2). Alternatively, the center seat member 50
and center backrest 52 can be removed to form an entryway to the
boat deck B (FIG. 4). Those skilled in the art will recognize that
the body 12 can be other shapes and sizes. An additional removable
seat member 53 (FIG. 2) can be secured along the seating area 16
with any appropriate means, such as a friction fit, brackets, or
fasteners.
[0020] In the embodiment of FIG. 4, each storage compartment 20
includes a generally rectangular main storage area 60, which is
sized to receive and store boat accessories, such as rope. The main
storage area 60 also has a storage tube 62 extending inwardly
toward the hull and sized to receive and store conventional boat
fenders 63, such as 61/2'' in diameter by 24'' deep. However, the
main storage area 60 and storage tube 62 can be any shape and size
to accommodate other storage items. Each storage compartment 60
also includes a generally truncated cylindrical recess 64 adjacent
to the main storage area 60. The recess 64 has a hole 66 for
mounting the loudspeaker 28 in a position aligned with the opening
26 defined by the cover member 22 and the body 12. In alternate
embodiments, the loudspeaker 28 can be surface mounted within the
recess 64 without the hole 66. As previously mentioned, this
arrangement allows the sound from the loudspeaker 28 to project
clearly through the opening 26 for enjoyment by the passengers when
the cover member 22 is in the closed position. In addition, the
cover member 22 provides adequate protection from the elements to
the loudspeaker 28. This arrangement facilitates easier use of the
loudspeakers 28 to the passengers because no adjustment of the
cover member 22 is needed to enjoy the emitting sound. In addition,
the storage compartment 20 can remain secured while the
loudspeakers 28 are in use.
[0021] FIG. 9 depicts an alternate embodiment of the hatch assembly
10 having cover members 22 that each include a frame member 80
extending from the proximal end of the cover member 22 to the
distal end of the cover member 22, thereby defining the opening 26.
A guard member 82 extends across the opening 26 and secures to the
cover member 22, such as with a friction fit or with a fastener. In
the illustrated embodiment, the guard member 82 is a speaker grill,
preferably make of plastic or other weather-proof material. In
addition, the guard member 82 can also comprise other structures
which are generally acoustically transparent, such as speaker grill
cloth or cell polyurethane foam. Similar to FIGS. 1 and 4, the
cover members 22 can pivot from a closed position to an open
position, which provides access to the storage compartments 20. The
opening 26 and guard member 82 are positioned generally aligned
with each storage compartment 20 so that the loudspeaker 28 can
emit sound outwardly through the opening 26 and guard member 82.
While the illustrated embodiment shows a cover member 22 having a
single opening 26 with a single guard member 82, it is understood
that any number of openings and guard members or combination
thereof can be used which allow the loudspeaker 28 to emit sound
therethrough.
[0022] An air strut 68 operatively connects each cover member 22
with the body 12 with appropriate fasteners 70 so that the cover
member 22 pivots between an open position and a closed position. In
the open position, the struts 68 extend, thereby pivoting the cover
member 22 upwards, preferably to about 45.degree. above the
horizon, and providing access to the storage compartment 20. The
struts 68 are biased to hold the cover member 22 in an open
position. In the closed position, the struts 68 retract, thereby
pivoting the cover member 22 downwards and seating the cover member
22 on the body 12. For security purposes, each cover member 22
includes a latch 72 to secure the cover member 22 to the body 12.
While the illustrated embodiment shows air struts 68, it is
understood that any other apparatus that can be employed to connect
the cover member 22 with the body 12 so that the covers pivot
between an open and closed position is encompassed by the scope of
the invention. These apparatus could include, but are not limited
to, hydraulic struts, hinge assemblies, a power actuated lift, a
telescoping rod, and so forth. Hence, the term strut is intended to
include any such apparatus that can perform the intended
function.
[0023] An electric lift 74 is operatively connected between the
body 12 and a power source 76, such as an inboard motor or a
battery (FIG. 3). In operation, the electric lift 74 extends and
retracts to pivot the body 12 between an open and closed position.
In the open position, the electric lift 74 extends, thereby
pivoting the hatch assembly 10 upwards and providing access to the
power source 76 within the boat hull D. In the closed position, the
electric lift 74 retracts, thereby, pivoting the hatch assembly 10
downwards seating the body 12 on the recessed edge 32 so that the
body 12 is flush with the deck B. For ease of use, the electric
lift 74 is also operatively connected to a switch on an instrument
panel to allow the operator to remotely open and close the hatch
assembly 10. In addition, the lift 74 can be powered independently
of the power source 76. Those skilled in the art will recognize
that other types of lifts can be used, such as a hydraulic lift, a
jack-type lift, or telescoping lift which may function manually and
not connected to a power source. In any event, the term lift,
particularly in the appended claims, is intended to include any
apparatus that functions to raise and lower the hatch assembly
10.
[0024] While the embodiment of FIGS. 1-7 discloses the body 12 as
pivotally attached to the boat deck B with hinges 14, alternate
embodiments can include other methods of attaching the body 12 to
the deck B. For example, the body 12 can be removably attached to
the deck B. In an alternate embodiment, the body 12 seats in the
recessed edge 32 of the deck opening 26 and can be raised and
lowered, either manually or with an appropriate lift 74, from an
open position to a closed position. Likewise, the embodiment of
FIGS. 1-7 disclose the cover member 22 as pivotally attached to the
body 12 with hinge 24. However, alternate embodiments can include
other methods of attaching the cover member 22 to the body 12. For
example, the cover member 22 can be removably attached to the body
12.
[0025] Changes can be made in the above constructions without
departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all
matter contained in the above description or shown in the
accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not
in a limiting sense.
* * * * *