Title: Cover for a boat, boat provided with such cover and method for protecting a boat using such cover
The invention relates to a cover for a boat, the cover comprising a covering, such as for example a tarp, and a frame supporting the covering. The cover can for example be used to cover a cockpit of a boat or extend over most of the deck of a boat.
It is known in the art to provide a metal, collapsible frame, made primarily of tubing, which can be folded or dismantled for storage, and which is erected when used. Commonly the frame has a fixed shape when erected, where after the covering is draped over the frame. It is also known to fold the covering with the frame, such that it stays attached to the frame, like a soft top of a car. After positioning the covering over the frame the covering is connected to the boat by appropriate means, mostly using snap fasteners. In order to function properly the covering needs to be pulled taut over the frame, such that no sagging occurs in which water could collect, forming puddles. Moreover by pulling the covering taut flapping of the covering is avoided, preventing damage to the covering, frame and/or boat, and even better preventing water and wind from getting under the cover.
It is often difficult to properly position the known covering on a boat. For example the covering may be cold and/or wet, making it shrink, requiring excessive force to be pulled taut and connected to the boat by said fasteners. This is especially difficult when the user has for example cold and/or wet hands. It is known to provide a frame with telescoping posts, such that after attaching the covering to the boat the frame can be expanded mechanically to some degree, for tautening the covering. This know cover is however relatively fragile, due to the telescoping frame parts, and complicated to use, because the frame has to be adjusted after the covering has been placed, meaning that the frame is hard to reach. Moreover, this still requires relatively much force and hence strength of the user. US6623322 discloses an inflatable life raft provided with an inflatable cover for covering occupants of the life raft. The cover comprises a frame which is inflatable. The cover is inflatable by use of a gas cannister, forcing pressurized gas into the inflatable frame. US5800225 discloses a similar inflatable life raft, for an airplane, with an inflatable cover. Again a gas canister is provided for forcing pressurized air into the life raft and cover frame, for inflating. A bellow type topping up pump can be provided for topping up pressure inside the life raft manually. These life rafts and covers are designed to be used temporarily, during a limited period of time, while being occupied or when people are in the vicinity of the life raft.
An aim of the present disclosure is to provide for an at least partly inflatable cover for a boat which is an alternative to the known covers. An aim of the present disclosure is to provide a partly inflatable boat cover which can be used for covering a boat over an extended period of time, preferably autonomously, without human intervention. An aim is to provide such boat cover which is easy to use. An aim is to provide such boat cover which is efficient and provides good coverage for at least a cockpit of a boat. An aim is to provide a boat cover which can be easily placed and removed. An aim is to provide a boat provided with an at least partly inflatable boat cover. An aim is to provide a method for placing and maintaining a boat cover on a boat, preferably during an extending period of time, while the boat has been moored, wherein the cover is at least partly inflatable. At least one of these and other aims are at least partly achieved with a boat cover, boat and/or method of the disclosure.
In an aspect a cover for a boat according to the disclosure comprises a covering and a frame for supporting the covering on a boat. The covering is provided with connecting elements for connection of the covering to the boat and/or to the frame. In a cover according to the disclosure the frame is at least partly inflatable. In a cover according to the present disclosure a pump is fluidly connected to the frame and/or a pressure tank is fluidly connected to the frame, for maintaining a pressure inside the frame between a set upper limit and a set lower limit.
By providing a frame which is at least partly inflatable, a covering can be easily placed with the frame at least partly deflated, such that the covering can be connected to the boat easily, without significant tension in the covering. Then when the covering has been properly attached to the boat, the frame can be inflated, thereby initiating tension on the covering and bringing the covering in the proper position and configuration, avoiding sagging, puddles and the like. Alternatively or additionally the frame can be connected to the boat, whereby the covering is connected to the frame. In such embodiment too the frame can be inflated for tensioning the covering. When the cover needs to be removed, the frame can be deflated at least partly again, for releasing the tension, such that the covering can be easily released.
By providing at least one of an air pump and a pressure tank, fluidly connected to the frame, pressure inside the frame can easily and preferably autonomously be controlled between a set lower limit and a set upper limit, such that the cover can be kept taut, but not too taut.
In a cover according to the disclosure in embodiments when an air pump is provided said air pump is integrated in the cover, especially in the frame. If a pressure tank is provided the pressure tank can be integrated in the cover, especially in the frame. In advantageous embodiments both a pressure tank and an air pump are provided, integrated in the frame. Thus a cover can be self-contained.
In embodiments in which a pressure tank is provided, the pressure tank is preferably fluidly connected to the frame in such a way that gas, especially air, can be fed into the frame from the pressure tank and gas, especially air, can be fed into the pressure tank from the frame. The pressure tank can for example be an expansion tank, preferably autonomously keeping pressure between said upper limit and said lower limit.
In advantageous embodiments of a cover of the disclosure a control is provided for controlling air pressure inside the frame, at least above said set lower pressure and below said set higher pressure. Preferably such control system is at least partly an active control system, electronically controlling the said pressure. The control system can comprise a pressure sensor. Alternatively or additionally the control system can comprise other sensors, such as for example a strain gauge, measuring tautness of the cover.
In advantageous embodiments an energizing system is provided, preferably comprising a battery, for energizing at least one of a pump, a pressure tank and a control, wherein the energizing system preferably is integrated in said cover.
In such embodiments especially the cover can be self-contained for maintaining pressure inside the frame and hence proper covering of a boat over an extended period of time, for example days or weeks, without the necessity of being connected to an outside power supply, such as a wall socket or generator, and substantially without human interference.
In advantageous embodiments the frame comprises a series of air tight tube elements, inflatable for providing semi rigid tubes for supporting the covering. Preferably the series of tube elements is interconnected, comprising an integrated volume.
In preferred embodiments the covering is connected to the frame, at least in positions spaced apart from the boat itself, for example along tube like elements of the frame, such that the covering can, when being pulled taut, cannot move relative to the frame. This will aid in keeping the shape and position of the cover during use. The covering can for example be connected to the frame using at least one of zippers, Velcro and snap fasteners. In embodiments the frame comprises at least one of an underpressure valve and an over-pressure valve. By providing an under pressure valve, air can be supplemented to the frame when the pressure in the frame drops below a desired level, for example due to cooling of the air around the boat. Air can for example be supplemented by using air from a pressure tank, or by using a pump. By providing an over-pressure valve it can be prevented that the pressure exceeds a desired maximum pressure, for example due to heating of the air inside the frame. In embodiments the frame can comprise an under-pressure valve and an over-pressure valve.
In advantageous embodiments a pump is connected to the frame. In the same or different advantageous embodiments a pressure tank is connected to the frame. As discussed a pump and/or a pressure tank can be used for supplementing air to the frame, when necessary. In preferred embodiments the pump and/or the pressure tank stay connected to the frame during use, with the frame inflated.
In advantageous embodiments a pressure sensor is provided, in the frame or connected to the frame, for during use sensing air pressure in the frame. This allows for control of the pressure by supplementing air or allowing air to escape, as described.
The covering can exist of a single part. In alternative embodiments the covering comprises at least two separate portions, interconnected to or interconnectable to each other and/or to the frame.
The disclosure is further directed to a boat, comprising a cover according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the frame is supported by at least one of a deck, a gunwale or a cockpit of the boat, wherein the covering is connected to the boat, and where in the frame is pressurized by air to such extend that the covering is pulled taut.
Preferably an air pump and/or a pressure tank are provided, fluidly connected to the frame of the cover, wherein a control is provided for controlling air pressure inside the frame, at least above a set lower pressure and preferably between a set lower pressure and a set higher pressure.
In advantageous embodiments the air pump and/or the pressure vessel are integrated in the cover, preferably in the frame. The cover preferably is autonomous, self-contained system which can be placed on and removed from the boat.
In the same or further embodiments a battery is provided for at least the control, wherein the battery is preferably integrated in the cover, more preferably in the frame. This allows for use of the cover without having to rely on external power supply.
In preferred embodiments the control is designed for autonomously keeping the air pressure in the frame between said set lower pressure and said set higher pressure, for keeping the cover taut during a period of time exceeding at least one day, preferably exceeding at least one week, especially during mooring of the boat while no people are present at the boat.
In a boat according to the disclosure the covering can be connected to the boat indirectly, for example via the frame being attached to the boat, or, preferably, directly, for example using snap fasteners, zippers and/or Velcro®. In advantageous embodiments the covering during use covers a cockpit of the boat, whereby the covering is connected to the boat at a periphery of the cockpit. Thus when inflating the frame the covering is pulled taut and is fixed to the boat, shielding the cockpit.
In further elaboration an air pump and/or a pressure tank can be provided in the boat, connected to or integrated in the frame of the cover, wherein a pressure system is provided, for during use controlling air pressure in the frame and/or in a pressurizing system connected to the frame, wherein the pressure system comprises the pump and/or the pressure tank and is preferably designed to control the air pressure in the frame at least above the set lower pressure and preferably between the set lower pressure and the set higher pressure.
By using an air pump and/or a pressure tank air can be introduced into the frame in an easy manner. By using a control for controlling the inlet of air into the frame the pressure can be regulated automatically or at least semi automatically, above a desired, set lower pressure. For a boat covering it is preferable that this stays in a taut position over time, even when there is no person around for keeping an eye on said cover. For example boats are often left moored at a dock or kay or harbor or the like, substantially unattended for a relatively long period of time, for example days or weeks. During which time a conventional cover can slacken or be pulled too taut by stretching, for example due to changing weather conditions, especially temperature or humidity. When slackening sagging can occur, which can lead to water puddles on the cover or leaking because the covering does no longer fit closely against the boat. The covering could even come loose from the boat and/or frame. When the covering is pulled too taut damage can occur to the frame and/or covering, due to overstraining, and again the covering could be pulled partly free from the frame and/or boat, which could lead to leaking. By using an inflatable frame and an air pump and/or pressure tank the air pressure inside the frame can be adjusted at all times, in order to prevent both slackening and over-stretching. By using a pressure system for controlling the inlet of air into the frame and/or release of air from the frame, the air pressure inside the frame can be controlled over time, automatically or semi automatically, even without human interference during such time. Preferably a lower pressure is set in the pressure system as a minimum pressure, whereas an upper pressure can also be set in the pressure system as a maximum pressure.
The disclosure is further directed to a method for protecting a boat by providing a cover, the cover comprising a covering and a frame. According to an aspect of the disclosure the frame is at least partly inflatable. A method according to the disclosure is further characterized in comprising at least the steps of placing the frame with the covering on the boat, with the frame in an at least partly deflated state; attaching the covering to the boat; and inflating the frame, thereby pulling the covering taut.
With a method of the disclosure the cover, including the covering and the frame, can be placed easily on the boat, with the frame preferably in an at least partly deflated state and the covering attached to the frame. The covering can be attached to the frame before placing the cover on the boat or can be attached to the frame after placing the at least partly deflated frame on the boat. Then the covering can be connected to the boat easily, for example using snap fasteners, zippers or Velcro, as is known in the art. Because the frame has been deflated at least partly, no significant tension will be present in the covering during such attaching of the covering to the boat, which makes attaching easily possible without excessive force required. Then when the covering has been properly attached to the boat, the frame is inflated to a desired pressure, pulling the covering taut to a sufficient extend.
In preferred embodiments of a method of the disclosure air pressure inside the frame is measured and a control system is operated based on said measured air pressure, such that the air pressure is regulated in the frame by said control system between a set upper limit and a set lower limit, preferably autonomously.
After inflating the frame preferably air is released from the frame when the pressure inside the frame rises above a preset upper limit and/or air is introduced into the frame when the pressure inside the frame falls below a preset lower limit. More preferably at least after inflating the frame pressure inside the frame is measured using for example a pressure sensor, connected to a pressure system, wherein when the pressure measured falls below said lower limit a valve opens for allowing air into the frame from a pressure tank and/or provided by an air pump. If the pressure rises above said preset upper limit air may be released using an overpressure valve. Such valves are known in the art.
In a method of the disclosure preferably the control system comprises at least one of an air pump and a pressure tank, wherein the control system preferably is energized by at least a battery integrated in said cover. When air is released from the frame this can for example be fed into a pressure tank, such as an expansion vessel, for later use, if air again has to be fed into the frame for raising pressure, reducing energy consumption by the system.
With a method according to the disclosure preferably the pressure is controlled during an extended period of time, especially at least during more than one day, more preferably at least during more than a week, without human intervention. Thus a boat can be moored and maintained covered over a long period of time, with the covering be kept sufficiently taut.
The invention will be further elucidated on the basis of exemplary embodiments of a cover, boat and method of the disclosure, which are represented in the drawings. The exemplary embodiments are given by way of non-limitative illustration of the invention. In the drawings:
Fig. 1 shows a schematic perspective view a boat provided with a frame of a cover according to the disclosure;
Fig. 2 shows schematically in side view a boat with a cover, comprising a covering supported by a frame;
Fig. 3 shows a schematic perspective view of a cover according to the disclosure;
Fig. 4 shows a schematic view in cross section of a boat with a cover according to the disclosure, with the frame in inflated position;
Fig. 4A an enlarged view of a connection between the cover and the boat as shown in fig. 4; Fig. 5 shows a schematic view in cross section of the boat of fig. 4 with a cover according to the disclosure, with the frame in partly deflated position;
Fig. 5A an enlarged view of a connection between the cover and the boat as shown in fig. 5;
Fig. 6 shows schematically part of a cover of the disclosure, in cross sectional view, showing an embodiment of a connection between a covering and a frame of a cover;
Fig. 7 shows schematically part of a cover of the disclosure in an alternative embodiment, in cross sectional view, showing an embodiment of a connection between a covering and a frame of a cover;
Fig. 8 shows schematically an example of part of a cover, with inflated frame and rolled up side portions of a covering;
Fig. 9 discloses schematically part of a cover of the disclosure, in cross sectional view, showing a pump, control and battery integrated in the frame;
Fig. 10 discloses schematically part of a cover of the disclosure, in cross sectional view, showing a pressure tank, here shown as an expansion vessel, control and battery integrated in the frame;
Fig. 11 shows schematically part of a cover, especially of a frame according to the disclosure;
Fig. 12 discloses schematically part of a cover of the disclosure, in cross sectional view, showing a pressure tank with a pump, control and battery integrated in the frame; and
Fig. 13 discloses schematically part of a cover of the disclosure, in cross sectional view, with a pump connected to the frame, with a controller and a connector for connecting to a power source, such as a wall socket, connecting to the boat’s internal electrical system or an electrical system provided at the mooring. The embodiments shown and discussed are presented by way of example only. These should not be considered as limiting the scope of the disclosure. In the various embodiments the same or similar reference signs are used for the same or similar features.
In this disclosure by way of example a boat is shown as a sloop or longboat. It should be understood that a cover according to the disclosure can be used for other types of boats too, such as for example but not limited to sailboat, motorboats, rowing boat, barge, canoe or kayak or the like.
In this disclosure a covering is disclosed and discussed, which can be made of any suitable material and in any suitable manner, such as known in the art for boat covers and tarps. Examples of materials can be but are not limited to water proof textile, fabric, plastic or the like. A covering can be made using a single layer of material or two or more layers, such as for example a sandwich material, in which for example a heat insulating layer, wind breaker layer or the like can be used. The covering is at least partly pliable and/or flexible, such that it can for example be folded or rolled, and can be pulled taut.
In this disclosure taut should at least be understood as meaning stretched or pulled tight, not slack. In the taut position the covering will present no sagging in which water can accumulate, thus preventing the forming of water pools.
In this disclosure a frame should be understood as a construction of one or more elements for supporting the covering when for example the boat is in use, for example for forming a spray cover, or when the boat is docked, for example at a kay, in a harbor or on open water.
In this disclosure a rigid frame should be understood as at least meaning a frame which when sufficiently inflated, i.e. having an air pressure between a set lower limit and a set upper limit, is capable of stably supporting a covering pulled taut, able to withstand environmental forces like rain and wind. A frame according to the disclosure may be suitable to elastically deform when external forces are applied to it, but will regain its form when said forces are released.
In this disclosure mooring or moored should at least be understood as a position of a boat in which it is located at or near a dock, quay, harbor, coast or the like, in a substantially stationary position, held in position by for example a mooring line, anchor or the like, for a longer period of time, like days or weeks, without human occupancy of the boat.
In this disclosure terms like up, top, down, bottom, forward, rearward, side or sideways and the like will be used in their normal meaning, unless specifically defined otherwise, wherein for example a top or upper side of the cover is the side of the cover opposite the hull of the boat, the lower side of the cover being adjacent the deck and gunwales of the boat.
Fig. 1 shows a boat 1, comprising a hull 2 with a cockpit 3, surrounded by a gunwale 30 and a deck 4. In for example fig. 1 and 2 the gunwale 30 is a substantially flat part of the boat surrounding the cockpit 3. It will be understood that the gunwale can also be an upstanding edge surrounding the cockpit, as is known in the art. In fig. 1 the boat 1 is shown seen substantially from a stern 5 of the boat. A frame 6 is positioned on and/or against the gunwale 30, and extends over the cockpit 3. In this embodiment the frame 6 is an inflatable frame 6. The frame 6 is for example made of a plastic, air tight material, and comprises a series of air tight tube elements 7, inflatable for providing semi rigid tubes for supporting a covering 8. The frame 6 and covering 8 form or are at least part of a cover C for the boat 1 or a part thereof.
Fig. 2 shows the boat 1 with the cover C properly positioned, the frame C having been inflated by air pressure, the air pressure P preferably being between a lower limit Piow and an upper limit Phi h, as will be described hereafter in more detail.
In this embodiment as for example shown in fig. 1 — 3 the frame C comprises a series of upright tube like elements 7 A, horizontal upper and lower tube like elements 7B extending in a for-aft direction of the boat, connecting upper and lower ends 7C, 7D of the upright tube like elements 7 A, and curved tube like elements 7E extending in a cross direction of the boat, again connecting upper ends of upright tube like elements 7 A on opposite sides of the boat and frame. One or more further horizontal tube like elements 7B can be provided between two or more of the curved tube like elements 7E, for example parallel to the opposite sides or gunwales 30 of the boat. It will however be understood that a frame 6 according to the disclosure can be made differently, for example with tube like elements 7 extending in different directions or orientations, whereas for example instead of and/or next to tube like elements 7 other inflatable elements can be used, such as for example but not limited to inflatable mattress type elements.
Each tube element 7 has, as is for example schematically shown in fig. 6 and 7, a wall 9 enclosing an internal volume V7. The series of tube elements 7 can be interconnected, such that the internal volumes V7 of the series of tube elements 7 are interconnected, forming an integrated internal volume V of the frame 6. In alternative embodiments each tube element 7 can comprise an internal volume separate from the internal volumes of the other tube element 7, or some tube elements can have connected internal volumes, separate from individual or combined internal volumes of other tube elements 7.
The frame comprises at least one valve 10 or other entry 10 for introducing air into the frame 6 for filling and pressurizing the internal volumes V7 of the tube elements 7. By said pressurized air the frame 6 will become rigid enough to support the covering 8. In fig. 1 a pressure tank 11 is shown, connected to the valve 10 by a line 12. The pressure tank 11 can have any suitable dimensions and configuration, and can for example be a vessel or comprise a series of vessels, and can be or comprise an expansion vessel, as is for example also shown in fig 10. An air pump 13, which can for example be an air compressor, is connected to or integrated with the pressure tank 11, for compressing air and introducing such compressed air into the pressure tank 11 and/or into the frame 6 through the valve 10. Filling the frame 6 with compressed air is also referred to as inflating, opposed to deflating, in which compressed air escapes from the frame 6.
A covering 8 is provided, which is supported by the frame 6, as is for example shown in fig. 2 and 3. The covering 8 is preferably connected to the frame 6, preferably such that the covering 8 will not move relative to the frame 6. The covering 8 can for example be connected to one or more of the tube like elements 7 of the frame 6. The covering 8 can be connected to the frame 6 for example but not limited to using at least one of zippers, Velcro and snap fasteners.
Fig. 6 shows part of an embodiment of a cover C in which the covering 8 is connected to the frame 6 using at least one zipper 20. In this embodiment a first part 20A of the zipper 20 extends in a length direction L of a tube like element 7, over an outward facing portion thereof, in this embodiment an upward facing portion. The second part 20B of the zipper 20 is attached to an inward facing side of the covering 8, such that by zipping the first part 20A and second part 20B of the zipper together, the covering 8 is attached to said tube like element 7. In the embodiment shown the tube like element is for example a curved cross member 7E, but could additionally or alternatively be one of the upper tube members 7B extending parallel to the gunwales 30.
Fig. 7 shows part of an embodiment of a cover C in which the covering 8 comprises at least two separate portions. A first portion 8A of the covering 8 is attached to one or, preferably, more of the tube elements 7B and/or 7E using for example again zippers as disclosed in fig. 6 or other means, such as for example Velcro® 21 as shown in fig. 7. The first portion 8A of the covering can for example be provided over a mid- section 6A of the frame 6. As is shown schematically in fig. 7, at least one second portion 8B of the covering 8 can be provided, which can be connected to a tube like element 7 again, for example using a zipper 20, Velcro® 21 and/or other means, such as snap fasteners. In this embodiment the second portion 8B comprises a flap 22 which can cover an edge portion of the first part 8A and can be attached thereto releasably by any suitable means, such as for example but not limited to Velcro® 22A. Thus a water tight connection is provided.
Fig. 9 and 10 each show an alternative embodiment of a cover C, for example as disclosed in fig. 3 — 8, for a boat, for example according to fig. 2, wherein a pump 13 and a pressure tank 11 respectively have been integrated in the frame 6. It will be clear that also a frame 6 can comprise both a pump 13 and a pressure vessel 11, preferably both integrated in the frame 6. In fig. 9 and 10 also a control 14, also referred to as a controller 14, and a battery 32 are shown, in these embodiments also integrated in the frame, the battery being designed and provided for at least energizing the control 14 and, if provided for, preferably also the pump 13.
In fig. 9 part of a cover C is shown, comprising tubes 7, wherein inside tube 7 A a pump 13 is shown, connected to the environment of the tube through an entry 10, for example a valve, such as a one-way valve, a tube, an opening or the like. The pump has an outlet 10A into the inner volume V7 for feeding air under pressure into the tubes 7 and thus into the frame 6. A sensor 15, preferably a pressure sensor 15 is connected to the controller 14 for sensing a pressure inside the frame 6, especially in the tube or tubed 7, on the bases of which air can be introduced into the frame using the pump or air can be released from the frame 6, for example through an outlet 33, which can for example be a pressure relief valve, for example mechanically or electrically operated.
In fig. 10 an embodiment of a cover C is shown, similar to that of fig. 9, in which a pressure vessel 11 is provided, in stead of a pump 13. In embodiments the pressure vessel 11 can be additional to a pump 13. In the embodiment shown in fig. 10 the pressure vessel 11 is designed as an expansion vessel, in this embodiment comprising a first compartment 11A and a second compartment 11B, separated from each other by a membrane 11C. In the first compartment a regulating pressure PHA is set, when the pressure P in the second compartment 11B is at the same level and the membrane 11C is thus in a middle position. The first compartment 11A is air tight, the second compartment 11B is in open communication with the inner volume of the frame 6 through passage 10A. Thus if the pressure P in the frame 6 is reduced, the membrane 11C will be pushed towards the second compartment 11B, forcing air into the volume V and raising the pressure again. If on the other hand the pressure rises in the volume V, air will be forced into the second compartment 11B, forcing the membrane 11C towards the first compartment 11 A, reducing the volume thereof and thus increasing pressure PUA. Hence the pressure P inside the frame can be regulated between a lower pressure Piow and a higher pressure Phigh.
As discussed the pressure vessel 11 can control pressure P inside the frame 6 autonomously, between the two pressures Piow and Phigh. In fig. 10 additionally, as an option, a controller 14 and battery 32 are shown, connected to the pressure sensor 15. In such embodiment for example the controller can comprise a transmitter for sending out a signal to a receiver held by a user, with which signal for example the user can be informed of a pressure change, for example to a pressure exceeding a set high pressure or dropping below a set lower pressure, such that the user can take action. Alternatively or additionally the controller can be used for opening a pressure release valve 33 and/or activating a pump 13, for example an external pump 13 as shown in fig. 1 or an internal pump as shown in fig. 9, for increasing pressure inside the frame 6.
As discussed, in embodiments a cover C can comprise both a pump 13 and a pressure vessel 11 integral to the cover C, such as integral to the frame 6. In this sense integral should at least but not exclusively be understood as meaning that a pump or a pressure vessel or a battery or a controller or a sensor or the like is an integral part of the cover, for example by including the relevant part inside a tube 7, or in the volume V in a different position, or incorporated in a wall 9 of the cover C, in or as a connecting element between tubes 7 or other frame parts.
By integrating various parts in the cover C the cover can be self- contained, improving use of the cover C. Such cover does not have to rely on external parts, especially not if a battery or such power source also has been integrated in the cover. By providing an integrated power source such as a battery the cover does not have to rely on for example a battery of the boat, and thus the cover can be kept at a desired pressure over a long period of time, especially for days or weeks without the necessity of people intervening. Thus a boat covered with a cover C according to the disclosure can be moored and left substantially unattended for days or weeks at end.
Fig. 11 schematically shows an alternative embodiment of a cover C with integrated pump 13 and/or pressure vessel 11, controller 14 and battery 32, as well as a sensor 15. The outlet 10A of the pump cq passage of the pressure vessel 11 is provided such that it extends into an end 34 of a tube 7, as does the sensor 15 in this embodiment. The further parts of the pressurizing system 31, comprising the pump 13, pressure vessel 11, if provided, the battery 32 and the controller 14 extend outside the tube 7 for easy access, for example for changing a battery or for other maintenance. The pressurizing system 31 in this embodiment is shown, by way of example, resting during use on a gunwale 30 or other part of the boat.
In the embodiments comprising a battery or battery pack, such as but not limited embodiments according to fig. 11, the battery or battery pack can be an exchangeable battery or battery pack, which can be recharged, for example in a charger or by connecting it to an external power source. Additionally or alternatively a cover can be provided with a socket 40 for providing power to a battery 32 and/or control 14 and/or pump 13 and/or sensor 15 integrated in the frame 6.
Fig. 12 schematically shows a further alternative embodiment of a cover C of the disclosure, similar to e.g. fig. 10, wherein a pressure tank 11 is provided, connected to or comprising a pump 13 for feeding pressurized gas, especially air, into the pressure tank 11, for providing a readily available supply of pressurized air to be charged into the frame 6 when a pressure drop is sensed by the sensor 15. In such embodiments overpressure can be released preferably through an overpressure valve 16, whereas the pressure inside the pressure vessel can be maintained using the pump 13. In the embodiment shown in fig. 12 the pump 13 and pressure vessel 11 are shown inside the frame 6. It will however be clear that in similar embodiments the pump 13 and/or the pressure vessel 11 can be provided outside the frame 6. Similarly in all embodiments the control 14 and/or battery 32 can be provided either in the frame 6 or outside the frame 6.
Fig. 13 schematically shows an embodiment of a cover C of the disclosure, similar to fig. 1, wherein a pump 13, for example a compressor, and a control 14 are provided outside the frame 6 but connected to the cover C, wherein schematically a power plug 41 is shown for connecting to an external source of power, such as a mains or a power supply of the boat with which the cover C is used. A sensor 15 is shown inside the frame 6, for measuring pressure. As described in all embodiments alternatively or additionally pressure can be measured by the pump 13 or pressure vessel 11, measuring counter pressure when feeding air towards or into the frame 6, in a manner as is for example known from blood-pressure measuring devices.
In embodiments of the disclosure some or all of electrical and electronic components, such as for example a pump, control, sensor and/or battery can be solar powered at least in part, for example by a solar panel integral to the cover, such as but not limited to a flexible solar panel. Providing an integral cover C, comprising the frame 6, the covering 8 and the pressuring unit 31 with a battery or battery pack 32 the advantage can be obtained that the cover can be used for different boats without having to rely on for example a power supply of the boats, making it easier to use, for example by renting the cover out.
As is shown in for example fig. 2, 4 and 5, a lower edge portion 23 of the covering 8 can be connected to the boat 1, for example to the gunwales 30 and/or to a side of the boat and/or the deck 4, along a periphery of the cover 8, as is as such known in the art. To this end for example snap fasteners 24 can be used, as schematically shown in fig. 4A and 5A at a slightly larger scale. Thus the covering 8 will, when supported properly by the frame 6, cover the boat 1 or at least relevant parts thereof, such as the cockpit 3.
When using a cover C according to the disclosure preferably the following steps are followed.
The frame 6 is placed in position on the boat 1, resting for example on the gunwales 30 and/or deck 4. The frame 6 is placed in an at least partly deflated state, as shown in fig. 4, wherein the air pressure P is preferably low, for example below the set minimum air pressure Piow. In the deflated state the frame for example has a height Hi. As can be seen in this position the covering 8 can be placed over the frame 6 in an at least partly folded or crumpled or at least otherwise not taut state, such that the covering 8 can be draped over the frame 6 easily and, especially, the peripheral edge portion 23 can easily be connected to the boat 6 using the fasteners 24, such as snap fasteners.
After connecting the covering 8 to the boat 1, as shown in fig. 4 and 4A, the frame 6 is inflated or inflated further, such that the frame 6 assumes its desired upstanding configuration, as shown in fig. 5, in which it for example has a height H2 which is larger than the height Hi. By inflating the frame 6 the covering 8 is pulled taut. Thus tension is only created in the covering 8 after having attached the covering 8 to the boat 1, thus avoiding at least some of the problems of the known boat covers in a simple way.
In the inflated position as shown in for example fig. 2 and 5, the frame 6 preferably has an internal pressure P between the set lower pressure Piow and the set higher pressure Phigh, and can support the covering 8 properly, in taut configuration. In this position the frame is preferably elastically deformable at least partly if an excessive force is applied to the cover C, for example if a person mounts the cover C or something is dropped on the cover C. The frame and thus the cover will then regain its proper configuration again when said force is released again. A cover C with an inflatable frame 6 according to the disclosure can therefore be more robust than a rigid or adjustable frame according to the prior art as discussed. The frame 6 and especially the tube like elements 7 are hence semi rigid, meaning that they are rigid enough to properly support the covering in taut position, but are flexible and elastically deformable when a larger force is applied.
Fig. 8 shows part of a cover C, wherein especially a mid-section 6A is shown, in inflated position. The covering 8 is shown attached to the frame using zippers 20. The side portions 8A of the covering have been rolled up, such that for example air and light can pass into a cockpit 3 covered by the cover C.
A cover C according to the disclosure preferably comprises or is connected to a pressure system 31 for pressurizing the frame and maintaining the pressure P in the frame between limits, especially between a lower limit Piow and an upper limit Phigh. In the embodiment shown in fig. 1 by way of example the pressure system 31 comprises the air pump 13, which is provided with a controller 14 with which the pump 13 can be switched on and off. A pressure sensor 15 is provided with which the air pressure in the pressure tank 11 can be measured. When the sensor 15 registers that the pressure inside the pressure tank 11 drops below a pre- defined minimal pressure, which is higher than the pressure desired to be maintained inside the frame 6, additional air will be introduced into the pressure tank 11 in order to raise the pressure above the pre-defined minimal pressure for the pressure tank 11.
In embodiments the valve 10 is designed such that when the pressure P inside the frame 6 drops below a pre-set lower limit Piow desired for inflating the frame 6, the valve 10 will open and allow air to enter into the volume V of the frame 6, in an amount to bring the pressure again above said lower limit Piow. This air can be introduced into the frame 6 from the pressure tank 11 or directly by the pump 13. In the latter case the sensor 15 will for example register the air pressure inside the frame 6 or in a pressure tank 11 of the pump 13 itself. Alternatively the pump 13 can be switched on periodically, wherein counter pressure is measured for air being introduced into the frame 6, thus controlling whether the pump needs to introduce more air into the frame 6 or can be switched off again.
The frame 6 can be provided with a pressure release valve or overpressure valve 16, with which automatically pressurized air can be released from the frame 6, if the pressure inside the frame 6 is found to be too high, for example above a pre-defined or pre-set upper limit Phigh, for which the valve 16 can be designed or settable, in a known manner. Thus for example when the frame is warmed up in the sun, the pressure will rise inside the frame 6, which can lead to too high pressure, which can then be released by the release valve 16. If later on the frame cools down again, the pressure may drop which can then again be compensated by introducing air again, as discussed, by the pressurizing system 31. Additionally or alternatively the excess air can be stored in the pressure tank 11, for later use.
The pump 13 can be connected to a mains, or is preferably provided with a battery pack 32, such that the system can operate autonomously. By using a cover C according to the disclosure the advantage is achieved that the covering can be applied more easily, requiring less strength than with known boat covers, in a simple manner. By using a pump 13 and/or pressure tank 11 and/or valves 10, 16 with which the pressure inside the frame 6 can be maintained between an upper and lower pressure automatically, the covering 8 can be maintained in a sufficiently taut position during a longer period of time, even without supervision by a user, for example when the boat 1 with the cover C is left unsupervised for a longer period of time, such as days or weeks or longer.
When the cover C needs to be removed or at least folded away, the frame 6 can be deflated at least partly, releasing tension in the covering 8. Then the lower edge 23 can be released from the boat 1 easily. Deflating the frame 6 moreover has the advantage that the volume of the cover is significantly reduced, for example for storage of the cover C.
The frame 6 is disclosed as fully inflatable. In alternative embodiments however the frame 6 can be made partly of rigid materials and partly inflatable. The pressure inside the frame 6 can in embodiments be monitored remotely, for example using a mobile phone, such that if the pressure rises above the set upper limit or drops below the set lower limit a user is informed and can, if desired, activate the pressure system 31 in order to adjust the pressure. For example such embodiments can be considered semi-automatic or semi-autonomous. In such embodiments preferably the pressure system 31 can both actively introduce air into the frame and remove air from the frame, for example by reversing the pump direction.
A cover according to the disclosure for a boat can comprise generally a covering and a frame for supporting the covering on a boat, wherein the covering is provided with connecting elements for connection of the covering to the boat and/or to the frame, and wherein the frame is at least partly inflatable.
In preferred embodiments a pump and/or a pressure tank can be fluidly connected to the frame, for maintaining a pressure inside the frame between a set upper limit and a set lower limit, preferably automatically and/or autonomously. Preferably the pump and/or pressure vessel are connected permanently to the frame, at least during use.
From the above description it will be apparent that in advantageous embodiments of the disclosure at least one of a pump, pressure vessel, control, battery and pressure sensor is integral to the cover, preferably integral to the frame. Preferably at least two, more preferably at least three of the above are integrated in the cover, preferably in the frame.
A boat according to the disclosure can comprise a cover according to the disclosure, wherein the frame is supported by at least one of a deck, a gunwale or a cockpit of the boat, wherein the covering is connected to the boat, and where in the frame is pressurized by air to such extend that the covering is pulled taut.
In preferred embodiments an air pump and/or a pressure tank are provided, fluidly connected to the frame of the cover, wherein a control is provided for controlling air pressure inside the frame, at least above a set lower pressure and preferably between a set lower pressure and a set higher pressure. In preferred embodiments the control is for automatically, autonomously controlling said pressure.
In embodiments a method according to the disclosure is provided for protecting a boat by providing a cover on the boat, the cover comprising a covering and a frame, wherein the frame is inflatable and is supported by the boat. In embodiments the method comprises the steps of placing the frame with the covering on the boat, with the frame in an at least partly deflated state; attaching the covering to the boat; and inflating the frame, thereby pulling the covering taut.
In preferred embodiments a method according to the disclosure is designed for providing said cover for a moored boat, wherein no people are present at or near the boat for actively controlling any such pressure. Preferably a method according to the disclosure at least comprises a step of maintaining said pressure in the frame between a set upper and a set lower limit autonomously.
The invention is by no means limited to the embodiments specifically shown and described here before. Many variants are possible thereof within the scope of the claims.
For example instead of an integral frame for a cover a frame could be provided which comprises different parts, wherein preferably at least one of the parts can be used separate from the or each other parts with a part of the covering, for example for forming a spray cover or sun cover on the boat during use. The covering can be assembled of two or more portions, for example for forming a midsection, a stern section and a bow section, which can be used together for forming a full cover, or separately for forming a partial covering of the boat or the cockpit. When used for a boat having a mast, such as a sail boat, the covering can be adapted to fit water tight against the mast, as is known in the art. The covering can also be connected to the lower side of the frame, such as to the tube elements 7B adjacent the gunwales and deck. In embodiments the frame can be made without the upstanding portions, for example such that the frame substantially is configured by the cross tube like elements 7E and upper longitudinal tube like elements 7B, such that the covering extends close to the cockpit of the boat. The covering can be connected to the frame by other means, such as for example but not limited to by adhering, such as by gluing or welding, or by providing tunnel like elements in the covering though which tube like elements of the frame can extend. The pressure system can comprise a expansion vessel type tank for maintaining pressure inside the frame.
These and many other variants are considered falling within the scope of the disclosure, including also any combination of features of the embodiments as disclosed.