U.S. patent application number 14/969784 was filed with the patent office on 2016-08-11 for multi-position automated convertible vberth for marine vessels.
This patent application is currently assigned to Boston Whaler, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Charles Dean Foss, Mark Eugene Robinson. Invention is credited to Charles Dean Foss, Mark Eugene Robinson.
Application Number | 20160229496 14/969784 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56565347 |
Filed Date | 2016-08-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160229496 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Foss; Charles Dean ; et
al. |
August 11, 2016 |
MULTI-POSITION AUTOMATED CONVERTIBLE VBERTH FOR MARINE VESSELS
Abstract
A multiple position automated convertible V-berth system for
marine vessels having a pair of independent bunks sections, and
guide mechanisms for controlling the physical movement of the bunks
from one configuration to another. Included is automatic actuation
and electronic controls for activating movement of the bunks from
one configuration to another in conjunction with the guide
mechanism. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth
system is convertible between a V-berth configuration and an island
bed configuration, eliminates manual operation, and includes
automatic deployment and retraction of a table.
Inventors: |
Foss; Charles Dean; (Port
Orange, FL) ; Robinson; Mark Eugene; (New Smyrna
Beach, FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Foss; Charles Dean
Robinson; Mark Eugene |
Port Orange
New Smyrna Beach |
FL
FL |
US
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Boston Whaler, Inc.
Edgewate
FL
|
Family ID: |
56565347 |
Appl. No.: |
14/969784 |
Filed: |
December 15, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62114960 |
Feb 11, 2015 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B63B 2029/043 20130101;
B63B 29/10 20130101; B63B 29/04 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B63B 29/10 20060101
B63B029/10; B63B 29/04 20060101 B63B029/04 |
Claims
1. A multiple position automated convertible V-berth system for
marine vessels, comprising: a pair of bunk sections; guide means
for controlling physical movement of said bunks; automatic
actuation and electronic control means for activating movement of
said bunk sections from one configuration to another in conjunction
with said guide means; said multiple position automated convertible
V-berth system is convertible between a V-berth configuration and
an bed configuration; wherein in said V-berth configuration, sale
pair of bunk sections are spaced apart and separated; and wherein
in said bed configuration said pair of bunk sections are pushed
together to form a bed.
2. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system of
claim 1, further including a telescoping table disposed between
said pair of bunk section.
3. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system of
claim 1, wherein said guide means comprises mechanical guides
providing for arcuate movement of said bunks.
4. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system of
claim 3, wherein said guide means includes electronic linear
actuators to impart movement of said bunks.
5. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system of
claim 4, wherein said automatic actuation and electronic control
means is comprised of electronic switches and control circuits
enabling operation of said electronic linear actuators.
6. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system of
claim 1, further including a central hub about which said pair of
bunk sections articulate.
7. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system of
claim 6, wherein said guide means comprise guide members attaching
said central hub to each of said bunk sections.
8. A multiple position automated convertible V-berth system for
marine vessels, comprising: a left bunk section and a right bunk
section; said bunk sections attached to and configured to
articulate about a central hub; a retractable table disposed
between said bunk sections; wherein in an open position said left
and right bunk sections are spaced apart and separated; and wherein
in said closed position, said left and right bunk sections are
brought together to form a bed and said retractable table is
retracted downward and stored in said bunk sections.
9. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system for
marine vessels of claim 8, wherein said bunk sections articulate by
way of guides attaching said bunk sections to said central hub.
10. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system for
marine vessels of claim 8, wherein in said closed position, said
retractable table is accommodated by an elongated slot of each of
said bunk sections.
11. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system for
marine vessels of claim 8, wherein said bunk sections and said
retractable table are automatically actuated and electronically
controlled by way of one or more electronic switches operating one
or more actuators.
12. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system for
marine vessels of claim 12, wherein said one or more actuators
comprise electronic linear actuators, hydraulic struts, rams,
pistons, or combinations thereof.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 62/114,960, filed on Feb. 11, 2015.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] N/A
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] 1. Field of the Invention
[0004] The present invention generally relates to cabins for marine
vessels and more particularly to an automated and convertible
V-berth having multiple positions and features.
[0005] 2. Description of Related Art
[0006] Marine vessel and watercraft designs have included a variety
of cabin eating, seating, and sleeping arrangements and designs for
the boaters. Specifically, there are many different designs for
master and quest berths pleasure crafts, luxury sport boats and
yachts. Many berths provide the user with a V-berth as known in the
industry, which commonly includes two separated sections of sleep
beds, cushions or couches in a "V" configuration, and an open
central area for accommodating individuals in the berth. They also
typically have a removable table and support arms for use within
the open area, along with optional insert(s) to complete a larger
bed enclosing the open area, or manually movable sections to create
a bed. However, many conventional berths require an operator to
manually remove and reposition bed, support, table and/or furniture
pieces, as well as store these units. The same is true when
reconfiguring the units. This proves to be laborious, cumbersome,
inefficient and frustrating, especially when required on a daily
basis.
[0007] Other conventional designs include power operated devices
which control movement of certain pieces or units to aid in
different elevations or configurations, however, none address the
inventive subject matter herein.
[0008] A further problem is that berths do not provide both a fixed
island bed and a V-berth within the same interior section of the
boat. The fixed island bed provides a superior sleeping quarters
that is easy to access from a side; alternatively, the V-berth
provides the open space for dining and entertainment.
[0009] Although prior designs have sought to improve the features,
ergonomics and utility of V-berth and alternative bed/berth
configurations and furniture, and may include certain power
operated components to assist with movement or operation, these
designs have failed to adequately maximize space, convertibility,
or automation, and do not address or solve the problems mentioned
above. For example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No.
2010/0018451 issued to Sahr, entitled Convertible Seat-Deck
Arrangement for a Boat, describes a convertible seat/deck
arrangement for a boat, having a generally open U-shaped or
V-shaped seating arrangement, for example in a bow rider. In a
first conventional configuration the deck arrangement provides
horizontal seating around its periphery with an open central area;
in a second configuration lower vertical deck elements are pivoted
from a generally vertical position to a generally horizontal
position which essentially completes an upright continuous
horizontal surface for occupants. This reference describes pivotal
legs to support the central deck elements in the horizontal
position, as well as optional use of linear or rotational powered
actuators to move the elements, and a linkage, slot or mechanical
guide system to guide the deck elements as well. However, this
reference does not describe specifics or particular means of
accomplishing these options.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 4,714,043, issued to Sheppard, entitled
Powered V-Berth Platform illustrates a powered V-berth platform in
which a cushioned platform fills the "gap" in a V-berth for
sleeping, and in its lowered position the platform acts as a chair
or stool in the open area. By use of a control switch, a motorized
vertical column with a power screw assembly is coupled to the
platform such that it can be raised to a horizontal position within
the open area of the V-berth. The platform thus fills the cutaway
area of the V-berth to provide a continuous sleep area.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 4,924,798, issued to Lathers, entitled
Recreational Boat Dinette/Sleeper relates to a convertible
seat/dinette/sleeper system for boats, and U.S. Pat. No. 8,517,466,
issued to Wizorek et al., describes a convertible boat seat which
transforms a standard bench seat to a lounge/sleeper.
[0012] While these designs provide some optional features and units
for convertible configurations for berths, dinettes and beds, they
require particular structural mechanisms that are relatively
limited in purpose and application, and do not address the need for
an automated convertible bed of multiple configurations, which also
accommodates seating and entertainment needs.
[0013] Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a better
designed, more efficient multiple position, automated, convertible
V-berth for boats which is selectively configured for an island bed
or V-berth, provides for and accommodates a seating, dining and
entertain configuration, and a system for marine vessels that
provides optimum comfort and a variety of positions while
maintaining simple operation and a unified appearance.
[0014] It is, therefore, to the effective resolution of the
aforementioned problems and shortcomings of the prior art that the
present invention is directed. However, in view of the marine
vessel berth, seating and sleeping systems in existence at the time
of the present invention, it was not obvious to those persons of
ordinary skill in the pertinent art as to how the identified needs
could be fulfilled in an advantageous manner.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] The present invention provides various embodiments of a
configurable V-berth seating and sleeping system designed for use
on marine vessels. The instant unique designs for a marine vessel
relate to automated convertible V-berths, which convert from a
common V-berth configuration with a table placed between two (2)
separated sofas, seats, or bunk sections, to a larger island bed at
the push of a button. Starting in the V-berth configuration, when a
switch is pressed the table begins to lower until it reaches a
lower limit switch which then triggers the V-berth bunk sections to
begin to pivot inwardly until they reach the centerline of the
boat. The table is accommodated beneath the bunk sections by way of
a slot or opening in the frame of the opposing bunks. Once the
bunks are in the center they reveal steps up either side of the
island bed configuration. Pressing the switch in the other
direction, the bunks begin to separate until they reach an outboard
limit switch which then triggers the table to rise until it reaches
its highest extent.
[0016] The convertible sleep/seating system is automated by simple
switch controls and accommodates multiple positions between the
V-berth seating and table configurations, and island bed
configurations for sleeping or lounging. This system also
automatically accommodates selective seating and entertainment
configurations aside from the different bed types. It eliminates
having to lower or remove tables to convert a berth, and the use of
separate cushions and support members fill V-berth open areas. It
also eliminates the need to manually move separate bunks together,
and also automatically provides an island bed with stepped side-bed
access. Finally, and most significantly, it eliminates the need to
choose a boat with either a V-berth or an island bed, as both are
provided with the instant invention at the selection of the
occupants.
[0017] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to
provide a multiple position, automatic convertible V-berth seating,
sleeping and dining system.
[0018] It is another object of the present invention to accomplish
the multiple position, automatic convertible V-berth seating,
sleeping and dining system configurations with an operationally
efficient and cost effective mechanical and electrical design.
[0019] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
completely automated convertible berth configuration system which
easily converts from a V-berth arrangement to an island bed
arrangement and eliminates the need for manual operation or
accessory furniture pieces.
[0020] Finally, it is an object of the present invention to provide
a multiple position, automatic convertible V-berth seating,
sleeping and dining system having all of the above features and
objects.
[0021] In accordance with these and other objects which will become
apparent hereinafter, the instant invention will now be described
with particular reference to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of one embodiment of the
convertible V-berth system of the present invention in an open
V-berth configuration.
[0023] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of one embodiment of the
convertible V-berth system of the present invention in a closed
island bed configuration.
[0024] FIG. 1C is a perspective view of one embodiment of the
convertible V-berth system of the present invention in an
intermediate position between the open V-berth configuration and
the closed island bed configuration.
[0025] FIG. 2A is a top plan view of one embodiment of the
convertible V-berth system of the present invention in an open
seating configuration.
[0026] FIG. 2B is a top plan view of one embodiment of the
convertible V-berth system of the present invention in a closed
seating configuration.
[0027] FIG. 3A is a bottom plan drawing view of one embodiment of
the convertible berth system of the present invention in an open
V-berth configuration.
[0028] FIG. 3B is an exploded partial drawing view taken along line
B of FIG. 3A.
[0029] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of
the convertible V-berth system of the present invention in a closed
island bed configuration.
[0030] FIG. 5A is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of
the convertible V-berth system of the present invention in an open
seating configuration.
[0031] FIG. 5B is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of
the convertible V-berth system of the present invention in a closed
seating configuration.
[0032] FIG. 5C is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of the convertible V-berth system of the present invention
illustrating an open configuration for seating in conjunction with
a central hub providing utility features.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0033] With reference to FIG. 1A, shown is a perspective view of
the multiple position automated and convertible V-berth system 10
of the present invention in an opened configuration. The v-berth
system includes a left bunk section 12 and a right bunk section 13
which form a V-shaped configuration toward the center hub 11. In
some embodiments, the V-berth system is designed within the bow
area of the vessel, such that the left and right sections 12 and 13
converge toward the center hub 11. Also shown are bunk section
bases 112 and 113 which form the support structure for the
respective bunk section 112 and 113. In some embodiments, each bunk
section base 112 and 113 includes an elongated slot 19 that is
configured to contain retractable table 14 when the system is
operated. As such, disposed between the left and right sections 12
and 14 is a retractable table 14. Table 14 is supported by a
telescoping support column 15. It can be seen that in this open
configuration occupants can be seated upon the bunks 12 and 13 with
sufficient leg area above deck 16 and beneath table 14. This
configuration is a typical configuration for utilizing the vessel
during cruising or entertaining, dining and the like.
[0034] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the convertible berth
system 10 in a closed, sleeping position. It can be seen that left
and right sections 12 and 13 have automatically moved into position
such that they are now aligned with one another in direct contact
in the center of the berth area forming a bed. Table 14 is no
longer visible, as it has been retracted beneath the left and right
sections 12 and 13. In some embodiments, the left and right
sections 12 and 13 articulate about central hub 11 to reach the
full closed, sleeping position shown. In this position, around the
perimeter of the bed can be seen left and right steps 17 and 18
which are now accessible such that one can access the now-formed
bed easily from either side, as well as from the front.
[0035] FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the V-berth system 10 shown
in an intermediate position between the open and closed positions
shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. Starting in the open position, the system
is activated by way of a remote switch which begins operation by
retracting the table 14 downward. In some embodiments, the table 14
retracts to its lowest position such that the table 14 itself is at
an elevation matching that of the elongated slot 19 of each bunk
section 12 and 13. Once the table 14 reaches its lowest position, a
limit switch engages such that the left and right bunk section 12
and 13 begin to move inward by rotating about central hub 11. The
slots 19 of the respective bunk sections 12 and 13 are aligned with
the table such that they receive at least a portion of the table 14
on either side. Accordingly, the table 14 remains protected and
concealed from view once the system 10 reaches the closed position
shown in FIG. 1B. When the system is activated again to move from
the closed position to the open position, the bunk sections 12 and
13 separate to their widest, open position and then a limit switch
is engaged such that the table 14 to moves upward to its tallest
position.
[0036] FIG. 2A is a top plan view of the open configuration shown
in FIG. 1A, and FIG. 2B is a top plan view of the closed
configuration shown in FIG. 1B. From here it can be seen how left
and right bunk sections 12 and 13 articulate towards each other
about central hub 11 to operate from the open position to the
closed position. Also, steps 17 and 18 can be seen more clearly,
each disposed on either side of the bed formed by left and right
bunk sections 12 and 13.
[0037] FIG. 3A is a partial bottom plan view of the view shown in
FIG. 2A, depicting one embodiment of the mechanism by which left
and right bunk sections 12 and 13 operate about central hub 11. In
some embodiments, left and right bunk sections 12 and 13 include
respective bunk frames 12' and 13'. Left and right bunk guides 31
and 32 are attached to the respective sides of central hub 11 and
provide arcuate action for the bunk sections 12 and 13. Actuators
33 and 34 are attached to the respective bunk sections 12 and 13,
and in some embodiments, directly to left and right bunk frames 12'
and 13'. The detail of this engagement is shown in close-up FIG.
3B. When actuated, the actuators lengthen so as to move the
respective bunk sections 12 and 13 along the respective bunk guides
31 and 32 in arcuate fashion. In some embodiments, the actuators 33
and 34 comprise electronic linear actuators. In other embodiments,
the actuators 33 and 34 can comprise gas or hydraulic struts that
are electronically activated by a remote switch. Also shown is
table control mechanism 35 which assists the retracting action of
the table 14 when the system is activated.
[0038] FIG. 5 illustrates the convertible berth system in a closed
island bed configuration. The V-berth system 10 pivots together
such that left and right bunk sections 12 and 13 form a bed. Also
provided in some embodiments are wing cushions 40 and 42 which can
pop up from the sides of the respective bunk sections 12 and 13 to
complete the island bed with additional shoulder room. In this
embodiment, step 17 and 18 become accessible such that an occupant
can approach the island bed from either side. Optional lighting can
be incorporated within the steps, about the lower section of the
island bed, within the sides of the bow area, or the like.
[0039] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of
the present invention wherein a plurality of V-berth systems 50, 51
and 12 are provided inside the cabin of a marine vessel. These are
illustrated each in an open configuration providing various seating
positions and options. FIG. 4B is a top plan view in correlation to
FIG. 4A depicting the systems 50, 51, and 52 in closed
configuration such that each system provides a bed. FIG. 4C shows
one V-berth system 53 consisting of left and right seat sections 55
and 56 in an open configuration about central hub 54. Central hub
54 is, in some embodiments, a utility piece including a cabinet 57,
sink 58 and compartments 59.
[0040] The automation of the system 10 provides a single step
operation of the entire system. With the push of a button, the
table 14 lowers and bunk sections converge on the center line of
the boat creating an island bed. With a push of the button again
the bunks separate and the table rises for a dining configuration.
The actuation of the berth allows for a conversion between a
dinette and an island bed. When a limit switch or other electronic
switch is triggered, the electric actuators move the bunk sections
along the curved guides until the section meet. In some
embodiments, there is an over current switch that limits the
actuator and stops the bunk sections at the center of the boat.
When reversed, the bunk sections articulate outboard until they
reach an outer limit and then the table 14 telescopes up by means
of an electric table control mechanism 35, such as a ram or strut
or piston.
[0041] It is appreciated and understood that the present invention
is designed to be modular for a wide variety of applications on a
marine vessel without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. For example, the bunk sections 12 and 13 may comprised a
flat planar members for use as a bed when in the closed position.
Alternatively, the sections 12 and 13 may be configured as chairs
and/or sofas as depicted in other figures, while still being to be
closed together to form sleeping or lounging furniture. Surrounding
structure may also be provided, such as bulkhead padding shown in
the figures or seat backs that enhance versatility and
functionality. The materials selected need not be considered
limiting, although various combinations of fiberglass, wood,
resins, plastics, and the like can be incorporated in the final
structure.
[0042] The instant invention has been shown and described herein in
what is considered to be the most practical and preferred
embodiments. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made
therefrom within the scope of the invention and that obvious
modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art.
* * * * *