TOWER FOR A BOAT

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119 (e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/662,059, filed Jun. 20, 2024, and titled “TOWER FOR A BOAT,” the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure generally relates to a top shade for a boat and a tower for a boat.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Boats, including recreational boats, can be equipped with towers. Some of these towers may be used as a tow point for a water sports participant. These towers may also include a shade to provide protection to the passengers of the boat from the elements, such as the sun and rain. The shade may be a generally open structure that is positioned over passenger areas of a boat, such as a cockpit of the boat.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, the invention relates to a top shade assembly for a boat. The top shade assembly can be a convertible top shade assembly and/or part of a tower and shade assembly. The top shade assembly includes a top shade, and the top shade can be moved between a raised position and a lowered position with the top shade maintaining a generally horizontal orientation as the leg rotates between the raised position and the lowered position. The top shade can be supported by one or more legs, and the legs can be part of a tower, such as a tower equipped with a towline attachment structure for watersports.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a convertible top shade assembly for a boat. The convertible top shade assembly includes a base, a leg, a top shade, and a linkage. The leg has an upper portion, a lower portion, and an interior volume. The lower portion of the leg is pivotably attached to the base at a leg pivot to rotate between a raised position and a lowered position. The top shade is pivotably attached to the upper portion of the leg at a shade pivot. The linkage is provided within the interior volume of the leg. The linkage is pivotably connected to the base at a linkage base pivot and pivotably connected to the top shade at a linkage top shade pivot to connect the top shade with the base and rotate the top shade about the shade pivot to maintain the top shade in a generally horizontal orientation as the leg rotates between the raised position and the lowered position.

In a further aspect, the invention relates to a tower and shade assembly for a boat. The tower and shade assembly includes a tower, and a top shade. The tower includes a left base, a left leg, a right base, a right leg, and a header. The left leg has an upper portion and a lower portion. The lower portion of the left leg is pivotably attached to the left base at a left leg pivot to rotate between a raised position and a lowered position. The right leg has an upper portion and a lower portion. The lower portion of the right leg is pivotably attached to the right base at a right leg pivot to rotate between a raised position and a lowered position. The header spans between the left leg and the right leg and is attached to the upper portion of each of the left leg and the right leg. The header has a towline-attachment structure. The top shade is pivotably attached to the upper portion of the left leg at a left shade pivot and to the upper portion of the right leg at a right shade pivot. The top shade pivotably attached to the upper portion the left leg and the right leg separately from the header. The top shade pivots at the left shade pivot and the right shade pivot to maintain the top shade in a generally horizontal orientation as the left leg and the right leg rotate between the raised position and the lowered position.

In a still another aspect, the invention relates to a tower and shade assembly for a boat. The tower and shade assembly includes a tower, a top shade, and a linkage. The tower includes a left base, a left leg, a right base, a right leg, and a header. The left leg has an upper portion and a lower portion. The lower portion of the left leg is pivotably attached to the left base at a left leg pivot to rotate between a raised position and a lowered position. The right leg has an upper portion and a lower portion. The lower portion of the right leg is pivotably attached to the right base at a right leg pivot to rotate between a raised position and a lowered position. The header spas between the left leg and the right leg and is attached to the upper portion of each of the left leg and the right leg. The header has a towline-attachment structure. The tower includes a tower upper portion with the header. The upper portion of the right leg, and the upper portion of the left leg being provided in the upper portion of the tower. The top shade is pivotably attached to the upper portion of the tower and extending therefrom. The linkage is pivotably connected to one of the left base or the right base at a linkage base pivot and pivotably connected to the top shade at a linkage top shade pivot to connect the top shade with one of the left base and the right base and rotate the top shade to maintain the top shade in a generally horizontal orientation as the left leg and the right leg rotate between the raised position and the lowered position.

In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a boat including any of the convertible top shade assemblies, or the tower and shade assemblies discussed herein.

These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A and 1B show a boat including a tower and shade assembly. FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the boat, and FIG. 1B is a top view of the boat.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are elevational views of the tower and shade assembly in a raised position. FIG. 2A is a side view showing the right side of the tower and shade assembly, and FIG. 2B is a rear view of the tower and shade assembly, showing the right side of the tower and shade assembly.

FIGS. 3A to 3C depict the tower and shade assembly moving from the raised position to a lowered position. FIG. 3A shows the tower and shade assembly in the raised position, and FIG. 3C shows the tower and shade assembly in the lowered position. FIG. 3B depicts the tower and shade assembly in an intermediate position between the raised position and the lowered position.

FIGS. 4A to 4C show a right base of the tower and shade assembly and the connection of the lower portion of a right leg thereto. FIG. 4A is a detail view of the right base with one of the base cover panels removed to show the base interior volume. FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the right base with the right leg in the raised position, and FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view of the right base with the right leg in the lowered position.

FIGS. 5A to 5C depict the tower and shade assembly, and, more specifically, the top shade moving from a raised position to a lowered position. FIG. 5A shows the tower and shade assembly in the raised position, and FIG. 5C shows the tower and shade assembly in the lowered position. FIG. 5B depicts the tower and shade assembly in an intermediate position between the raised and lowered positions.

FIG. 6 is a detail view of the upper portion of the right leg showing the connection between a right support arm of the top shade and the right leg.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the tower and shade assembly in the raised position depicting the effect of a towing force.

FIG. 8 is a detail view of the right base with an alternative pivot mechanism.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As noted above, a shade can be positioned over passenger areas of a boat, such as a cockpit of the boat, to provide protection from the elements, such as the sun and rain. The shade can be a top shade that covers at least a portion of a deck of the boat at a height suitable for passengers to pass underneath while standing. The top shade can be part of a tower and shade assembly with the shade supported by the tower. Because of its height, the tower with the top shade in a raised position may interfere with transportation and storage of the boat. Therefore, the tower, together with the top shade, is movable to a lowered position. The tower and shade assembly discussed herein has a dual-folding motion, with the legs folding and the top shade pivoting to remain parallel with the deck of the boat. In some embodiments, this dual-folding motion occurs as a result of a single action. For example, in those embodiments, as the legs pivot, the top shade automatically folds simultaneously with the movement of the legs, such as via an internal (e.g., hidden) linkage.

FIGS. 1A and 1B show a boat 100 that includes a tower and shade assembly 200.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of the boat 100, and FIG. 1B is a top view of the boat 100. The boat 100 includes a hull 110 with a bow 112, a transom 114, a port side 116, and a starboard side 118. The boat 100 has a deck 120 including a floor 126. Collectively, the bow 112, the transom 114, and the port side 116 and the starboard side 118 define an interior 130 of the boat 100.

The port and starboard sides 116, 118, have port and starboard gunwales 122, 124, respectively. In some embodiments, such as for fiberglass boats, the boat 100 can be formed from a hull molding, forming at least a portion of the hull 110, and a deck molding, forming at least a portion of the deck 120 and the floor 126. The top edge of the hull side, such as a top edge of the hull molding where the hull molding comes into contact with the deck molding, defines a sheerline of the boat 100. The port and starboard gunwales 122, 124 can be a generally horizontal surface of the deck molding (generally horizontal deck surface). Alternatively, the port and starboard gunwales 122, 124 can be formed as part of the hull 110 and, more specifically, as part of the hull molding. The port and starboard gunwales 122, 124 can be a top perimeter surface of the deck 120 or hull 110.

The boat 100 has a longitudinal centerline 102 running down the middle of the boat 100, halfway between the port and starboard sides 116, 118. A longitudinal direction is defined parallel to the longitudinal centerline 102, and the longitudinal direction can be a fore and aft direction. A transverse direction is defined transverse to the longitudinal direction, and the transverse direction can be a port and starboard direction.

The boat 100 is depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B as a bowrider, having both a bow seating area 132 positioned in the bow 112 of the boat 100 and a primary seating area 134 (sometimes also referred to as the cockpit) positioned aft of a windshield 104. The boat 100 shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B also has a pair of aft-facing seats 136, such as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,650,117, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Within the boat's interior 130 is a control console 160 for operating the boat 100. Here, the control console 160 is positioned on the starboard side of the boat 100, proximate to and aft of the windshield. Although described in reference to a bowrider, the embodiments discussed herein may be used with any suitable boat, including cuddies, center consoles, and cruisers, for example. Various embodiments discussed herein may also be suitable for use with other boats, such as pontoon boats.

The boat 100 includes a horizontal swim platform 106 attached to the transom 114 to make it easier for people to get into the water from the boat 100 or into the boat 100 from the water. A top view of the swim platform 106 is shown in FIG. 2, but the swim platform is omitted from FIG. 1 for clarity. The swim platform 106 should be capable of supporting a human, and the swim platform 106 is preferably capable of supporting at least 500 lbs. and, even more preferably 1250 lbs. The swim platform 106 may be constructed from any suitable material that may be used in a marine environment, including, for example, fiberglass or teak. In this embodiment, the swim platform 106 is attached to the transom 114 of the boat 100 using two brackets screwed to the transom 114; however, the swim platform 106 may be attached to the transom 114 by any suitable means. While the swim platform 106 is described as an attachable/detachable platform, it is not so limited. For example, the swim platform 106 may be integrally formed with the stern 108 of the boat 100.

The boat 100 shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B is a recreational boat and, more specifically, a recreational sport boat that may be used for water sports, such as water skiing, wakeboarding, wake surfing, wake foiling, and tubing. The boat 100 thus may be equipped with water sport accessories or systems to facilitate the use of the boat 100 with such activities. These water sport accessories and systems include, for example, devices that interact with the water and are capable of enhancing or otherwise adjusting the wake produced by the boat 100 and tow points for towing water sports participants.

The boat 100 may include the capability to add ballast. Ballast may be used to increase the weight and displacement of the boat 100 and increase the size of the wake for water sports, such as wakeboarding or wake surfing. Any suitable means to add ballast may be used, including ballast bags (sacks) or ballast tanks. The boat 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes three ballast tanks. The boat 100 includes a stern 108, and preferably, two ballast tanks are positioned in the stern 108 of the boat near the bottom of the hull, one on each side of the boat (a port ballast tank 142 and a starboard ballast tank 144), and a third ballast tank (not shown) is positioned along the boat's centerline near the bottom of the hull, forward of the two stern ballast tanks 142, 144. Ballast bags may be used in addition to the ballast tanks and may be plumbed into the ballast system of the boat 100. Preferably, the ballast bags are positioned above the stern ballast tanks 142, 144 in a compartment underneath the aft-facing seats 136. Both the ballast tanks and the ballast bags operate similarly, in that water may be pumped into the tank or bag by ballast pumps to add weight. Any suitable ballast system and arrangement of tanks, bags, and the like may be used, including, for example, the ballast systems disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 11,254,391, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

The boat 100 may be equipped with surf devices 152, 154, which may be used to shape the wake of the boat for wake surfing. Suitable surf devices include, for example, the port and starboard wake-modifying devices disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,833,286, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Each of the port and starboard surf devices 152, 154 includes a plate-like member that is pivotably attached to the transom 114 of the boat 100. Each plate-like member pivots about a pivot axis to move between a non-deployed position and a deployed position. In this embodiment, the pivot axes are hinges. Here, the hinges are piano hinges that are welded to a leading portion of each plate-like member and attached to the transom 114 of the boat 100 using screws. Other pivotable connections can be used can may be affixed to the transom 114 of the boat 100 and the port and starboard surf devices 152, 154 using other suitable means, including but not limited to bolts, screws, rivets, welding, and epoxy. Each of the port and starboard surf devices 152, 154 also may include one or more downturned and/or upturned surfaces, such as downturned surfaces at the trailing edge of the plate-like members that are angled at a downward angle relative to the plate-like member. As noted above, other surf devices can be used, and other suitable surf devices can include, for example, the port and starboard wake-modifying devices disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,802,684, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

As shown in FIG. 1, the boat 100 is also equipped with a central trim device (center tab 156) positioned to span the longitudinal centerline 102 of the boat. Any suitable trim device may be used, but in this embodiment the center tab 156 is a generally rectangular trim tab that is pivotably attached to the transom 114 of the boat 100. The center tab 156 includes a plate-like member and pivots about a pivot axis to move between a non-deployed position and a deployed position. Like the pivot axes of the surf devices 152, 154, the pivot axis of the center tab 156 may be any suitable pivotable connection affixed to the transom 114 of the boat 100.

Each of the surf devices 152, 154 and the center tab 156 is movable between the deployed position and the non-deployed position by a drive mechanism 158. In the embodiment shown, one drive mechanism 158 is used for each surf device 152, 154 and the center tab 156, allowing them to be independently operated. Each of the drive mechanisms 158 shown in this embodiment is a linear actuator. The linear actuator may be an electric linear actuator or an electro-hydraulic actuator (EHA). A suitable electric linear actuator may be one from Lenco Marine of Stuart, Florida, and a suitable electro-hydraulic actuator (EHA) may be one available from Parker Hannifin of Marysville, Ohio. One end of the linear actuator is connected to the transom 114 of the boat 100, and the other end is connected to the surf device 152, 154 or center tab 156. Other suitable means that can be used to move the surf devices 152, 154 and the center tab 156 between the deployed and non-deployed positions include, but are not limited to, hydraulic linear actuators, gas assist pneumatic actuators, and electrical motors.

The boat includes a propulsion system 170. The boat 100 of this embodiment is an inboard boat. However, the embodiments discussed herein can be utilized with other types of boats and propulsion systems, including but not limited to outboard motors, sterndrives, jet drives, and the like. The propulsion system includes a motor 172, such as a combustion engine or an electrical motor, operatively coupled to a propulsor, such as a propeller 174, to drive the propulsor. The motor 172 can be located within the interior 130 of the boat 100 and be connected to the propeller 174 by a drive shaft that extends through the hull bottom. The propeller 174 can be positioned beneath the hull bottom 119 and forward of the transom 114. The propulsion system, specifically the motor 172 and the drive shaft, can be arranged in a V-drive arrangement, allowing the engine to be located aft in the stern 108 of the boat 100 and further increasing the displacement of the stern 108 of the boat 100 for water sports, such as wake surfing or wake boarding. The propulsion system can be arranged in other inboard arrangements, such as a direct drive arrangement, which may be preferred for water ski boats where increased displacement is not desired.

A rudder 176 for turning the boat 100 can be positioned behind (e.g., aft of) the propeller 174. A user may turn the boat 100 by rotating a steering wheel 178 (FIGS. 1A and 1B) located at the control console 160. The steering wheel 178 is coupled to the rudder 176 such that turning the steering wheel 178 rotates the rudder 176. Any suitable steering system may be used, including mechanical rack-and-pinion systems connected to the rudder 176 by mechanical linkages, hydraulic steering systems, electronic steering systems, or the rudder 176 system shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,611,009, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. In other embodiments, for example, the steering wheel 178 may rotate the marine drive for outboard or sterndrives, or the nozzle for jet drives.

In this embodiment, the motor 172 and the propeller 174 may be operated by a user at the control console 160. The control console 160 can include a control lever that operates the speed of the motor 172, such as a throttle for the engine that engages the motor 172 with the drive shaft. The control console 160 can be used to support and enclose various controls for operating the boat 100. As noted above, the steering wheel 178 and the control lever may be located at the control console 160.

As shown schematically in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the boat 100 can include a controller 161 configured to operate various onboard systems. The controller 161 can be housed within the control console 160 and can be configured to manage components of the boat 100. In some embodiments, the controller 161 may be a standalone unit or integrated with other control systems onboard the boat.

The controller 161 can be a computing device comprising one or more processors 163 and memory 165. The processors 163 can be any suitable processing devices, including, but not limited to, microprocessors, microcontrollers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). The memory 165 includes one or more computer-readable media, such as non-transitory computer-readable media, flash memory, RAM, ROM, or other storage devices. The memory 165 stores data and computer-readable instructions executable by the processors 163 to perform various operations and control functions.

The instructions stored in memory 165 enable the controller 161 to manage and coordinate the operation of the boat's systems, including controlling a powered actuator 382 (FIG. 8) that adjusts the position of a tower and shade assembly 200. These instructions may be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination thereof, and may be executed in multiple threads or logical sequences to optimize system performance and flexibility. Furthermore, the architecture of the controller 161 can support distributed or combined control schemes across multiple computing devices as needed, allowing for scalable and modular system design.

The control console 160 can also include at least one display screen 167. The display screen 167 can visually render information, such as information retrieved from the controller 161, on the display screen 167 to present a variety of information about the status and operation of the boat. The control console 160 can include input devices 169 that are used to select various functions or options and operate various features and systems of the boat 100. Such input devices 169 may be operator controls. The input devices 169 can include a display screen 167, such as touchscreen display that has a plurality of user-selectable elements (or controls) that are displayed on the display screen 167. Other input devices 169 can include other static buttons and switches. These static buttons and switches are another example of user-selectable elements (or controls). Further input devices 169 can include the steering wheel 178 and the control lever, and portions thereof. The controller 161 can interface with the input devices 169, including the display screen 167. The input devices 169 can include a touchscreen display with user-selectable elements, physical buttons, switches, the steering wheel 178, and control levers. These devices enable an operator to select functions, adjust settings, and command system operations to operate the boat 100 and components and systems thereof. The display screen 167 can provide real-time visual feedback, presenting system status, operational parameters, and alerts retrieved from the controller 161.

The boat 100 is also equipped with an apparatus for towing a water sports participant. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the towing apparatus can be a tower 210 that can be used for towing a wakeboarder, for example. The tower 210 includes two legs: a left leg 220 and a right leg 230. The left leg 220 is attached on the port side of the longitudinal centerline 102 of the boat 100 and can also be referred to as a port leg. The right leg 230 is attached on the starboard side of the longitudinal centerline 102 of the boat 100 and can also be referred to as a starboard leg. As depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the left leg 220 and the right leg 230 are attached to the top perimeter surface of the deck 120 or hull 110. For example, the left leg 220 can be attached to the port gunwale 122 by a left base 240, and the right leg 230 can be attached to the starboard gunwale 124 by a right base 250. The left base 240 and the right base 250 can be directly attached to the top perimeter surface of the deck 120 or hull 110, such as the port gunwale 122 and the starboard gunwale 124 using any suitable means including, for example, bolts, fasteners, welding, and the like. More specifically, the left leg 220 includes an upper portion 222 and a lower portion 224, and the lower portion 224 is directly attached to the left base 240. Similarly, the right leg 230 includes and upper portion 232 and a lower portion 234 and the lower portion 234 is directly attached to the right base 250.

The tower 210 also includes a header 260. The header 260 is located in an upper portion 212 of the tower 210. More specifically, the header 260 is attached to the upper portion 222 of the left leg 220 and the upper portion 232 of the right leg 230. The header 260 spans the interior 130 of the boat 100, such as from the upper portion 222 of the left leg 220 to the upper portion 232 of the right leg 230, at a height suitable for passengers to pass underneath while standing. In addition, the tower 210 has a towline-attachment structure 262 in the upper portion 212 of the tower 210 (the header 260 in this embodiment). This towline-attachment structure 262 can be used to connect a towline suitable for towing a water sports participant, such as a wakeboarder. The towline-attachment structure 262 can be, for example, the towline-attachment assembly disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,539,886, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

The boat 100 includes a top shade 270. As depicted herein, the top shade 270 is connected to the tower 210 and, together with the tower 210, forms a tower and shade assembly 200. The following description will reference various features of the top shade 270 in conjunction with the tower 210, such as the left leg 220, the right leg 230, the left base 240, and the right base 250. Such features may also be applicable as a standalone shade assembly apart from the tower 210, such as without the header 260 and the towline-attachment structure 262. The top shade 270 can thus be referred to more generally as being part of a top shade assembly 202.

The top shade 270 can be used to protect the occupants of the boat 100 from the elements (e.g., sun and rain). The top shade 270 has a top shade cover 272 to provide protection from the elements. The top shade 270, including the top shade cover 272 or portions thereof, can be a hardtop where the top shade is a rigid material, such as aluminum or a composite material like fiberglass or a polymeric matrix composite (e.g., carbon-fiber composite). Alternatively, the top shade cover 272 can be a flexible top shade cover and the top shade 270 can be formed by stretching the top shade cover 272 over a frame, which is referred to herein as a top shade frame 280. The flexible top shade cover can be a canvas, such as a weather-proof or weather-resistant canvas, or other fabric material. The top shade cover 272 is depicted in FIG. 1A but omitted from the other figures herein for clarity.

The top shade 270 can be positioned on the boat 100 to cover at least a portion of the deck 120. For example, the top shade 270 can be positioned directly over one or more of the seating areas of the boat 100, such as the primary seating area 134. The top shade 270 can extend over at least a majority (e.g., greater than 50%) of the primary seating area 134. For example, in some embodiments the top shade 270 extends over the entire extent of the primary seating area 134 forward of the tower 210, including the control console 160. The top shade 270 may extend over at least a majority of the width of the boat 100 over the seating areas, such as over the entire width of the boat 100 from the port side 116 to the starboard side 118. The top shade 270 can extend over the full beam width of the boat 100, or over a portion of the full beam width, as measured at the widest extent from the port side 116 to the starboard side 118. For example, if a port edge of the top shade 270 and a starboard edge of the top shade 270 are located above the port gunwale 122 and the starboard gunwale 124, respectively, then the top shade cover 272 provides cover to the full beam width of the boat 100.

The top shade frame 280 can include a plurality of supports for the top shade cover 272. With the top shade cover 272 removed, the features of the top shade frame 280 can be seen in FIG. 1B. The top shade frame 280 can include a left support arm 282 and a right support arm 284. Each of the left support arm 282 and the right support arm 284 can be connected to the upper portion 212 of the tower 210 and extend therefrom. In this way the top shade 270 also is connected to the upper portion 212 of the tower 210 and extends therefrom. More specifically, the left support arm 282 can be attached, such as directly attached, to the upper portion 222 of the left leg 220 and extends from the left leg 220. Similarly, the right support arm 284 can be attached, such as directly attached, to the upper portion 232 of the right leg 230 and extends from the right leg 230. Here, each of the left support arm 282 and the right support arm 284 extends forward from the tower 210. More specifically, each of the left support arm 282 and the right support arm 284 extends forward from the left leg 220 and the right leg 230, respectively. The left support arm 282 and the right support arm 284 can be located above the port gunwale 122 and the starboard gunwale 124, respectively.

As noted above, the top shade 270 can include a top shade cover 272. The top shade cover 272 can span from the left support arm 282 to the right support arm 284. With the left support arm 282 and the right support arm 284 being connected to the upper portion 212 of the tower 210, the top shade cover 272 can be located at a height suitable for passengers to pass underneath while standing.

The plurality of supports can also include a plurality of transverse supports 286 spanning from the left support arm 282 to the right support arm 284. The transverse supports 286 can be used to support, such as directly support, the top shade cover 272 when the top shade cover 272 is a flexible cover, and the flexible cover can be stretched taut over the transverse supports 286. Each transverse support 286 can extend laterally between the left support arm 282 and the right support arm 284 at a height suitable for passengers to pass underneath while standing. Each transverse support 286 can be spaced apart from adjacent supports to provide distributed support for the length of the top shade cover 272. In some implementations, the transverse supports 286 can be formed as rigid structural elements having a variety of cross-sectional profiles. For example, the transverse supports 286 can include round tubular elements, square or rectangular hollow profiles, or other polygonal cross-sections depending on desired strength, weight, or aesthetic characteristics. The transverse supports 286 can be fixedly or removably coupled to the left and right support arms 282, 284 using fasteners, brackets, or integrated slots or channels, for example. The transverse supports 286 can be contoured or arched along their length to promote water runoff or to accommodate the natural sag of the flexible cover (i.e., the top shade cover 272) when tensioned. Additionally, the number and spacing of the transverse supports 286 can be selected to ensure the top shade cover 272 remains taut and sag-free under tension or wind load. Additionally, the aft-most transverse support 286 is shaped to have a recess, such as in the middle of the span, to accommodate the towline-attachment structure 262. As depicted in FIG. 1B, the recess extends inwardly from the back edge of the top shade 270.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are elevational views of the tower and shade assembly 200 in a raised position. FIG. 2A is a side view showing the right side of the tower and shade assembly 200, and FIG. 2B is a rear view of the tower and shade assembly 200, showing the right side of the tower and shade assembly 200. The following discussion of the features of the tower and shade assembly 200 will reference the right side of the tower and shade assembly 200, such as the right leg 230, the right base 250, and the right support arm 284. The left and right sides of tower and shade assembly 200 can be mirror images of each other, and thus the following discussion also applies to the left side of the tower and shade assembly 200, such as the left leg 220, the left base 240, and the left support arm 282. Additionally, in the following discussion, certain features and components will be described using 300-series reference numerals and will be described with respect to the right side of the tower and shade assembly 200. These 300-series features and components are described without the adjectives “left” or “right.” However, within this disclosure, the terms “left” or “right” may be added to indicate the feature's use or position on the left or right side of the tower and shade assembly 200. In other embodiments, however, the left and right side, such as the left leg 220 and the right leg 230, can have asymmetric constructions. For example, the following discussion can apply to the left side or the right side.

When the boat 100 is in use with passengers in the interior 130 of the boat 100, the tower and shade assembly 200 and the top shade 270 can be positioned in a raised position. Various features of the tower and shade assembly 200 in the raised position are discussed above, including the positioning of the top shade 270 to allow passengers to walk underneath.

As noted above, because of its height, the tower and shade assembly 200 may interfere with transportation and storage of the boat 100 when in a raised position. The tower and shade assembly 200 is convertible, and the tower 210 together with the top shade 270 is movable to a lowered position. In embodiments without the tower 210, the top shade assembly 202 is convertible and the top shade 270 is movable to a lowered position in a manner similar to that described below.

Each transverse support 286 has a chord line 288 between opposing mounting points on the left support arm 282 and the right support arm 284. The transverse supports 286 define a reference plane 274 based on the chord lines 288 of the transverse supports 286. While most transverse supports 286 lie in the reference plane 274, one or more transverse supports 286 can be positioned at a different vertical elevation, and such transverse supports 286 do not form part of the reference plane 274. In the raised position, the top shade 270 (more specifically, the reference plane 274) is generally parallel with respect to the floor 126 of the boat 100. Similarly, the top shade 270 (more specifically, the reference plane 274) is generally horizontal.

FIGS. 3A to 3C depict the tower and shade assembly 200 moving from the raised position to a lowered position. FIG. 3A shows the tower and shade assembly 200 in the raised position, and FIG. 3C shows the tower and shade assembly 200 in the lowered position. FIG. 3B depicts the tower and shade assembly 200 in an intermediate position between the raised position and the lowered position. The tower and shade assembly 200 has a dual-folding motion, with the left leg 220 and the right leg 230 folding and the top shade 270 pivoting to remain generally horizontal and generally parallel with the floor 126 of the boat 100.

As noted above, the right leg 230 has an upper portion 232. The right leg 230 also includes a lower portion 234. The lower portion 234 of the right leg 230 is pivotably attached to the right base 250 at a leg pivot 310 (FIG. 4A) to rotate about a leg pivot axis 312 between the raised position and the lowered position. The leg pivot axis 312 can extend in a direction transverse to the longitudinal centerline 102 of the boat 100, such as perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline 102, and the right leg 230 can pivot in a forward direction or an aft direction (or a backwards direction) to move from the raised position to the lowered position. As shown in FIGS. 3A to 3C, for example, the right leg 230 rotates in direction A about the leg pivot axis 312 to move from the raised position to the lowered position. In the depicted embodiment, direction A is an aft direction (a backward direction) and the upper portion 232 rotates aft (or backward) and downward to move from the raised position to the lowered position.

As the legs (e.g., the right leg 230) pivot, the top shade 270 automatically folds simultaneously with the movement of the legs (e.g., the right leg 230). This dual-folding motion occurs as a result of a single action, which in this embodiment is a manual operation that involves pulling down on the legs (e.g., the right leg 230). As will be shown in more detail in the figures discussed below, an internal (e.g., hidden) linkage 270 (FIG. 5A), such as a tie-bar link, allows the dual-folding motion with only a single action. More specifically, the top shade 270 is pivotably attached to the upper portion 232 of the right leg 230 at a shade pivot 320 (FIG. 6) about a shade pivot axis 322. The shade pivot axis 322 can be oriented parallel to the leg pivot axis 312, and the shade pivot axis 322 thus extends in a direction transverse to the longitudinal centerline 102 of the boat 100, such as perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline 102. As the right leg 230 moves from the raised position to the lowered position, the top shade 270 folds toward the legs (e.g., the right leg 230) by rotating about the shade pivot axis 322 in direction B. The top shade 270 can pivot to remain generally horizontal and generally parallel with the floor 126 of the boat 100 throughout the tower and shade assembly 200 moving between the raised position and the lowered position.

To move the tower and shade assembly 200 from the lowered position (FIG. 3C) to the raised position (FIG. 3A) the process and directions are reversed. In the lowered position, the top shade 270 is located closer to the deck 120, such as closer to the floor 126, than in the raised position. Likewise, the upper portion 232 of the right leg 230 is located closer to the deck 120, such as closer to the floor 126, than in the raised position, and the upper portion 232 of the right leg 230 is located closer to the top perimeter surface of the deck 120 or hull 110, such as closer to the starboard gunwale 124, than in the raised position.

FIGS. 4A to 4C show the right base 250 and the connection of the lower portion 234 of the right leg 230 thereto. The right leg 230 and the right base 250 can be constructed to have a frame structure defining a leg interior volume 330 (FIG. 5A) and a base interior volume 340. The right leg 230 can include one or more leg cover panels 331 (FIGS. 3A to 3C) to enclose the leg interior volume 330, and the right base 250 can include one or more base cover panels 342 (FIGS. 3A to 3C) to enclose the base interior volume 340. FIG. 4A is a detail view of the right base 250 with one of the base cover panels 342 removed to show the base interior volume 340. More specifically, FIG. 4A shows an inboard side of the right base 250 with the inboard base cover panels 342 removed. FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the right base 250 with the right leg 230 in the raised position, and FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view of the right base 250 with the right leg 230 in the lowered position. Each of FIGS. 4B and 4C are taken from a perspective similar to FIG. 4A.

As noted above, the lower portion 234 of the right leg 230 is pivotably attached to the right base 250 at the leg pivot 310 to rotate about the leg pivot axis 312 between a raised position and a lowered position. This pivotable movement is facilitated by a pivot mechanism 350 housed within the right base 250 and coupled to the right leg 230. The pivot mechanism 350 may include mechanical and actuator components that facilitate or control rotation about the leg pivot axis 312.

The leg pivot 310 can include a pivot pin 314 extending through aligned apertures or bores in the lower portion 234 of the leg and the right base 250, defining the leg pivot axis 312. The pivot pin 314 can be supported by bushings or bearings, such as sleeve bushings, ball bearings, or roller bearings, to facilitate smooth and durable rotation about the leg pivot axis 312. In some implementations, a clevis and tang arrangement may be used, where a forked clevis portion of the base receives a tang of the leg, and a pivot pin spans the clevis to define the axis of rotation. Washers or spacers may be used to maintain alignment and reduce axial play. Other types of pivotable connections can be used.

In this embodiment, the tower and shade assembly 200 is manually moved between the raised and lowered position. A user can manually pivot the right leg 230 about the leg pivot axis 312 to raise or lower the tower and shade assembly 200. The pivot mechanism 350 can include a biasing member that is configured to exert a biasing force on the right leg 230 to assist movement of the right leg 230 toward the raised position. The biasing member can be a gas spring 352 operatively coupled between the right base 250 and the right leg 230. The gas spring 352 applies a force, such as a biasing force, in direction C along a line of action 354a defined by its connection points to the right base 250 and the right leg 230, such as a base connection point 356 and a leg connection point 358. A line of pivot 354b is defined by the leg pivot axis 312 and the base connection point 356. The leg connection point 358 is vertically offset below the leg pivot axis 312, such that the line of action 354a does not intersect the leg pivot axis 312. This offset geometry ensures that the gas spring 352 applies a continuous rotational moment (e.g., in direction A′, which is opposite direction A discussed above) about the leg pivot axis 312 when the right leg 230 is in the lowered position, thereby assisting a user in raising the tower and shade assembly 200. The line of action 354a does not cross, and in the depicted embodiment, remains below, the line of pivot 354b. The force provided by the gas spring 352 (i.e., the biasing force) may be selected to be near neutral, counterbalancing the weight of the right leg 230 and other movable components of the tower and shade assembly 200 so that manual input is still required to move the right leg 230 but with reduced effort.

The gas spring 352 can be housed at least partially within the right base 250. The gas spring 352 is described as an example, and other biasing members may be used, including mechanical springs (e.g., coil springs or torsion springs), elastic bands, or pressurized hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders. In some embodiments, as will be discussed further below, the biasing member may be supplemented or replaced by a powered actuator, such as an electric, hydraulic, or electro-hydraulic linear actuator, configured to actively rotate the pivot mechanism 350 about the leg pivot 310.

The pivot mechanism 350 can include a lock 360 to selectively secure the right leg 230 in one or more fixed positions, such as the raised position, the lowered position, or both. The lock 360 ensures stability and prevents unintended movement of the right leg 230 about the leg pivot 310 during use or transport. The lock 360 can include, for example, a locking pin 362 that engages with one or more openings 364 formed in the right leg 230. Each opening 364 of the one or more openings 364 can correspond to one of the fixed positions. The locking pin 362 can be biased by a biasing member, such as a spring 368. The locking pin 362 can be biased by the spring 368 to engage with one of the openings 364, such as by being inserted into the opening 364. The locking pin 362 can be operable by a lever 366. The locking pin 362 can be withdrawn, via the lever 366, from the opening 364 to permit movement of the right leg 230. Other examples of suitable locks include latch assemblies, cam locks, toggle locks, and quick-release pins. In some embodiments friction-based or threaded fasteners may be used, and in others electromechanical solutions such as solenoid-actuated pins may be employed. The lock 360 may be partially or fully enclosed and optionally can include indicators to show locked or unlocked status.

FIGS. 5A to 5C depict the tower and shade assembly 200 and, more specifically, the top shade 270 moving from a raised position to a lowered position. FIG. 5A shows the tower and shade assembly 200 in the raised position, and FIG. 5C shows the tower and shade assembly 200 in the lowered position. FIG. 5B depicts the tower and shade assembly 200 in an intermediate position between the raised and lowered positions. As described above, a linkage 370 connects the top shade 270 with the right base 250 and guides or drives the pivoting motion of the top shade 270 such that the top shade 270 maintains a generally horizontal orientation throughout the movement of the leg 230.

The right leg 230 includes one or more struts, such as a forward strut 333 and a rear strut 335. The forward strut 333 and the rear strut 335 can be spaced apart from each other and can extend vertically between an upper structural plate 337 and a lower structural plate 339. The forward strut 333 and the rear strut 335 provide the primary structural support and define a load path for the weight and other forces on the top shade 270 and the upper portion 212 of tower 210 to be transmitted to the boat 100. The leg interior volume 330 can be defined between the forward strut 333 and the rear strut 335. The forward strut 333 and the rear strut 335 can define the leg interior volume 330 together with the upper structural plate 337 and the lower structural plate 339. One or more leg cover panels 331 (FIGS. 3A to 3C) can be applied to the right leg 230, such as to the forward strut 333, the rear strut 335, or both, to enclose the leg interior volume 330, concealing and protecting internal components such as the linkage 370. The linkage 370 is separate from the forward strut 333 and the rear strut 335.

The lower structural plate 339 is located on the lower portion 234 of the right leg 230. The lower structural plate 339 can include the aligned apertures for the leg pivot 310 and the one or more openings 364 for the lock 360. The lower structural plate 339 can thus include the leg pivot 310. As noted above, the top shade 270 is pivotably attached to the upper portion 232 of the right leg 230 at a shade pivot 320 about a shade pivot axis 322. The upper structural plate 337 is located on the upper portion 232 of the right leg 230. The upper structural plate 337 can include the shade pivot 320.

FIG. 6 is a detail view of the upper portion 232 showing the connection between the right support arm 284 and the right leg 230. As discussed above, the top shade 270 is pivotably attached to the upper portion 232 of the right leg 230 at the shade pivot 320 about the shade pivot axis 322. The shade pivot 320 can be a pivot similar to the leg pivot 310 discussed above, and the discussion of the leg pivot 310 can apply to the shade pivot 320. The shade pivot 320 can thus include a pivot pin 324 extending through aligned apertures or bores in the upper portion 232 of the right leg 230, such as the upper structural plate 337 and the right support arm 284, defining the leg pivot axis 312.

Referring back to FIGS. 5A to 5C, the linkage 370 includes a lower portion, such as a lower end 371a, and an upper portion, such as an upper end 371b. The lower end 371a is pivotably connected to the base 250 at a linkage base pivot 373, and the upper end 371b is pivotably connected to the top shade 270 at a linkage top shade pivot 375. The linkage base pivot 373 includes a linkage base pin 377 that connects the linkage 370 to the base 250. Similarly, the linkage top shade pivot 375 includes a linkage top shade pin 379 that connects the linkage 370 to the top shade 270, such as to the right support arm 284. Other pivotable connections can be used for the linkage base pivot 373 and the linkage top shade pivot 375.

The linkage base pivot 373 is spaced apart from the leg pivot 310 in a first direction. Likewise, the linkage top shade pivot 375 is spaced apart from the shade pivot 320 in the same first direction. The first direction can be a forward direction or a rearward direction. As depicted, for example, the leg pivot 310 and the shade pivot 320 are each located on a rear portion of the right leg 230 and the first direction is a forward direction. This offset pivot geometry defines the path and rotation of the top shade 270 as the right leg 230 rotates between the raised position and the lowered position. The spacing between the pivots enables the top shade 270 to act as a driver or guide, ensuring the top shade 270 remains in a generally horizontal orientation or generally parallel to the floor 126.

The linkage 370 can be formed as a rigid bar configured to drive rotation of the top shade 270 in the direction B (e.g., downward and toward the leg) and in the opposite direction B′ (e.g., upward and away from the leg) as the right leg 230 pivots between the raised position and lowered position. The linkage 370 can be a tie-bar link. The rigid bar provides a non-deformable connection between the linkage base pivot 373 and the linkage top shade pivot 375 to maintain a controlled and repeatable motion path. While the rigid bar is generally linear in form, it may include a variety of cross-sectional geometries suited to structural and packaging requirements. For example, the bar may have a solid circular cross section, a rectangular cross section, a tubular or hollow profile, or a structural channel or flange shape. In some embodiments, the rigid bar may include localized reinforcements or contours to accommodate fasteners, bushings, or bearing surfaces at the pivot locations.

As the right leg 230 rotates, the right leg 230 moves relative to the right base 250 and the right support arm 284. The linkage 370 is located in the leg interior volume 330 and the linkage base pin 377, and the linkage top shade pin 379 can thus extend through a portion of the right leg 230 to connect the linkage 370 with the right base 250 or the right support arm 284, respectively. The right leg 230 can include features that accommodate the linkage base pin 377 and the linkage top shade pin 379 and allow for the relative movement of the right leg 230 with respect to the linkage base pivot 373 and the linkage top shade pivot 375. The right leg 230 can include, for example, guide slots that accommodate and constrain the motion of the linkage pins. For example, the upper structural plate 337 can include an upper slot 344 through which the linkage top shade pin 379 extends to connect the linkage 370 to the top shade 270, such as to the right support arm 284. The lower structural plate 339 can include a lower slot 346 through which the linkage base pin 377 extends to connect the linkage 370 to the base 250. Both the upper slot 344 and the lower slot 346 can be arcuate, with a curvature to match the motion path of the respective linkage pivot (i.e., the linkage base pivot 373 and the linkage top shade pivot 375) as the right leg 230 rotates between positions. A portion of the upper slot 344 can also be seen in FIG. 6, and the lower slot 346 can also be seen in FIGS. 4A to 4C.

The curvature and location of each slot are selected to match the desired pivot trajectory and ensure the linkage remains properly oriented throughout the motion. As the leg rotates, the linkage top shade pin 379 and the linkage base pin 377 move along their respective arcuate slots, allowing the linkage 370 to adjust its angular position while continuing to transmit motion. The upper slot 344 and the lower slot 346 can act as mechanical guide to ensure consistent and coordinated folding and unfolding of the top shade 270 with the motion of the right leg 230.

Positioning the linkage 370 within the leg interior volume 330 of the leg 230 provides several functional and structural benefits. By locating the linkage 370 within the leg interior volume 330, the tower and shade assembly 200 has a more compact and streamlined form, and the aesthetics of the tower are improved. The components of the linkage 370 and associated pivots and pins are concealed from view, which contributes to a cleaner external appearance and a more integrated visual design. This concealment is particularly desirable in recreational marine environments, where exposed mechanical hardware may be considered visually intrusive.

From an operational standpoint, internal placement of the linkage 370 minimizes the risk of unintentional contact with moving parts during movement of the tower and shade assembly 200. The controlled, guided motion within the right leg 230 allows the tower and shade assembly 200, including the top shade 270, to be stowed or deployed smoothly and predictably, without obstruction from external equipment or accessories. Furthermore, housing the linkage 370 within the interior volume provides environmental protection for the moving components.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the tower and shade assembly 200 in the raised position. As discussed above, the top shade 270 can be attached to the tower 210 separately from the towline-attachment structure 262. The top shade 270 is structurally and functionally separate from the towline-attachment structure 262. More specifically, the left support arm 282 and the right support arm 284 can be attached to the upper portion 222 of the left leg 220 and the upper portion 232 of the right leg 230, respectively, separately from the header 260 on which the towline-attachment structure 262 is mounted. The top shade 270 and the header 260 can be independently directly attached to the left leg 220 and the right leg 230.

The header 260 is connected directly to the upper portion 222 of the left leg 220 and the upper portion 232 of the right leg 230. The header 260 is distinct from the top shade 270, including the top shade frame 280. This separation allows towing and pulling forces applied to the header 260, via the towline-attachment structure 262, to be transmitted directly through the left leg 220 and the right leg 230, bypassing the linkage 370 and top shade frame 280. The linkage 370 and its associated pivots (e.g., the linkage base pivot 373 and the linkage top shade pivot 375) are not subjected to the high mechanical loads associated with towing. This configuration helps prevent stress concentrations or mechanical failure within the linkage system and preserves alignment and motion fidelity of the top shade 270 during movement.

The linkage base pivot 373 and the linkage top shade pivot 375 of the linkage 370 are not load-bearing under tow conditions (e.g., when a load is applied in direction D). Instead, tow loads are carried primarily by the structural geometry of the left leg 220 and the right leg 230, such as the forward strut 333 and the rear strut 335, and the engagement of the lock 360. Although the linkage 370 and top shade 270 retain the capacity to pivot under tow conditions, such motion is constrained by the locked condition of the left leg 220 and/or the right leg 230 at the leg pivot 310. In this way, the pivot geometry is arranged such that, under applied tow forces, the induced torque (direction E) is transferred through the leg pivot axis 312 and the locking pin 362, while the linkage 370 remains functionally disengaged from the towing load path.

FIG. 8 is a detail view of the right base 250 with an alternative pivot mechanism 380. FIG. 8 is similar to FIG. 4, with one of the base cover panels 342 removed to show the base interior volume 340. The pivot mechanism 380 is similar to the pivot mechanism 350, but instead of using a biasing member, such as a gas spring 352, the pivot mechanism 380 includes a powered actuator 382. The powered actuator 382 can be a linear actuator, such as an electric, hydraulic, or electro-hydraulic linear actuator, configured to actively rotate the right leg 230 about the leg pivot 310 in the manner discussed above.

The input devices 169 can include a tower position control 384, which is depicted in FIG. 8 as a rocker switch having distinct up and down positions. The tower position control 384 is depicted in FIG. 8 as a rocker switch with up and down positions. The tower position control 384 transmits user commands to the controller 161, which in turn actuates the powered actuator 382 to move the right leg 230 between the raised and lowered positions. The user operates the tower position control 384 by pressing the switch upward to command the controller 161 to actuate the powered actuator 382 to raise the right leg 230, thereby moving the tower and shade assembly 200 in direction A′ toward the raised position. Conversely, pressing the switch downward signals the controller 161 to activate the powered actuator 382 to lower the right leg 230, moving the tower and shade assembly 200 in direction A toward the lowered position. The controller 161 can continuously monitor the switch position (i.e., tower position control 384) and the actuator feedback to provide smooth, controlled movement of the tower and shade assembly 200. When the user releases the rocker switch (i.e., tower position control 384) to a neutral position, the controller 161 stops the powered actuator 382, maintaining the tower in its current position. In some embodiments, when a powered actuator 382 is used, the lock 360 can be omitted.

The tower and shade assembly 200 and the top shade assembly 202 discussed herein provide a dual-folding motion that is initiated and coordinated through a single user action. This synchronized motion is facilitated by an internally housed or hidden linkage 370, which not only enables smooth and reliable movement of both the top shade 270 and the legs 220, 230, but also contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal by concealing mechanical components within the structure. The enclosed linkage arrangement further enhances functionality by protecting moving parts. Moreover, in certain embodiments, the tower 210 incorporates a towline-attachment structure 262, and the force from towing loads applied to this structure is transmitted directly to the boat 100 through the load-bearing components of the left leg 220 and the right leg 230. This configuration isolates the hidden linkage 370 and top shade 270 from towing stresses, preserving their mechanical integrity and ensuring reliable operation of the folding system under load-bearing conditions.

As used herein, the directional terms forward (fore), aft, inboard, and outboard have their customary meanings as understood in the marine and boating arts. Specifically, “forward” or “fore” refers to a direction toward the bow of the boat, while “aft” refers to a direction toward the stern. The term “inboard” denotes a direction toward the longitudinal centerline or central axis of the boat, whereas “outboard” indicates a direction away from the centerline, toward the sides or outer edges of the boat.

As used herein, the directional terms forward, backward, left, and right are defined relative to the tower and shade assembly. The terms “front” and “back” correspond to the forward and backward directions of the tower assembly, while “left” and “right” correspond to the left and right sides of the tower and shade assembly, respectively, when facing forward. These directional terms are understood with reference to the customary installation orientation of the tower and shade assembly on a boat. When installed, the assembly's forward direction typically aligns with the forward (fore) direction of the boat, and the backward direction aligns with the aftward (aft) direction. Similarly, the assembly's left side aligns with the port side of the boat, and the right side aligns with the starboard side. These terms can be used interchangeably with port, starboard, fore, and aft herein to provide consistent directional references both to the assembly itself and in its installed context on the boat.

The terms “coupled,” “fixed,” “attached,” “connected,” and the like, refer to both direct coupling, fixing, attaching, or connecting, as well as indirect coupling, fixing, attaching, or connecting through one or more intermediate components or features, unless otherwise specified herein.

As used herein, the terms “upper portion” and “lower portion” of the tower and shade assembly refer to locations along the vertical extent of the tower when the tower is in the raised position. The “upper portion” generally denotes the area of the tower closer to the top shade or canopy, while the “lower portion” denotes the area closer to the base or mounting point on the boat. With some components, such as the left leg and right leg, that have both an upper portion and a lower portion, these terms refer to distinct segments along the length of the component when the tower is in the raised position. In this context, the “upper portion” generally comprises the section of the leg extending downward from the top end, constituting approximately one quarter or less of the total length of the leg, including any features or attachments proximate to the top shade or canopy. Similarly, the “lower portion” generally comprises the section extending upward from the base or mounting interface, also constituting approximately one quarter or less of the total length of the leg. The remaining is an intermediate portion lying between these upper and lower portions.

As used herein, the term “vertically” or “vertical” refers to a direction or orientation that is generally perpendicular to the floor of the boat. This includes not only an exact perpendicular alignment to the floor but also orientations that are more vertical than horizontal.

As used herein, a reference plane for the top shade can be defined based on the chord lines of a subset of the transverse supports. Each chord line corresponds to a straight line extending between the attachment points of a given transverse support on the left and right support arms. When two or more transverse supports have chord lines that lie in a common geometric plane, that plane is referred to as the reference plane. The reference plane is used as a structural and geometric baseline for describing the orientation of the top shade and associated components.

As used herein, the term “generally parallel” in the context of the reference plane refers to a plane that is substantially parallel to the floor of the deck, allowing for slight variations in angular alignment due to mounting geometry, component tolerances, or intended curvature. Minor angular deviations, such as up to +10 degrees from the floor, still fall within the scope of “generally parallel” as long as the orientation preserves intended functionality, such as head clearance, shading coverage, and alignment with the structure of the boat.

As used herein, the term “generally horizontal”, in the context of the reference plane, refers to a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity (i.e., a plane that maintains a relatively consistent vertical height across its span in a static orientation). The term allows for slight curvature or angular deviation that does not materially affect the perceived horizontal orientation of the plane. Similar to the term “generally parallel,” “generally horizontal” may accommodate minor angular deviations, such as up to +10 degrees from true perpendicularity to the direction of gravity.

As used herein, the term “biasing member” refers to a class of mechanical components that applies a predetermined force or torque to influence the position, movement, or behavior of another part or mechanism. The biasing member provides a continuous or variable load in a specific direction to resist undesired motion, return a component to a default state, maintain contact, or stabilize a system. The biasing member can function passively to ensure that the system remains within a desired range or configuration. Biasing members include, but are not limited to, springs, elastomeric components, gas pistons, and other similar force-applying or energy-storing devices.

Although this invention has been described with respect to certain specific exemplary embodiments, many additional modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of this disclosure. It is, therefore, to be understood that this invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described. Thus, the exemplary embodiments of the invention should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive, and the scope of the invention to be determined by any claims supportable by this disclosure and the equivalents of the embodiments and structures discussed herein, rather than by the foregoing description.