Power-Actuated Deploying Platform for a Small Marine Vessel

Abstract

A power-actuated platform affixed to the frame of the marine vessel that rides on wheels that follow tracks to form a moving carriage. The relative angle of the platform in relation to the deck or water surface changes as the platform travels from a stowed position to a deployed position. The device is uses a powered actuator attached to a fixed substrate of the device at one end and the carriage on the other. The actuator can be controlled remotely by the vessel operator using a directional power controller affixed to the helm, by radio signal from a handheld unit that can be a cellular telephone, or by means of a plug-in the lanyard multidirectional controller. On a pontoon boat or catamaran, the platform of the present invention can be attached to the forward deck area for convenience. When deployed, the platform provides easy ingress and egress to the vessel.

Description

[0001]This application is related to, and claims priority from, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 241,887 filed Oct. 15, 2015. Application 62 / 241,887 is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND[0002]Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates generally to small marine vessels such as pontoon boats, catamarans and the like, and more particularly to a power-actuated platform that attaches to such boats.[0004]Description of the Problem[0005]A pontoon boat or catamaran is typically powered by internal combustion engine, or in some cases a battery driven motor. Such boats have a helm station and sponsons or pontoons which position a deck area at a fixed distance from the surface of the water. This distance from the deck area to the water is typically too great for a person to gain unencumbered egress and ingress to the boat main deck area from the water or from a landing area. A pontoon boat or catamaran vessel may be equipped with a ladder or ap...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a powered pontoon or catamaran boat platform that can be easily moved and positioned to allow for easy access to the boat. The platform is designed with wheels that roll along a track pathway, making it easy to move and maneuver the boat when stowed. When the platform is in use, it provides a convenient position for people and cargo to get on and off the boat. The invention also includes a pivoting arm and railway system that allows for easy positioning of the platform in both the stowed and deployed configurations. Overall, the invention provides a more convenient and efficient way to use powered pontoon or catamaran boats.

Problems solved by technology

This distance from the deck area to the water is typically too great for a person to gain unencumbered egress and ingress to the boat main deck area from the water or from a landing area.

While ladders or removable platforms work, they are very inconvenient.

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