Boat Seat Beverage Holder

A beverage holder attachment securable to a boat seat is provided. The beverage holder attachment includes (1) a flat plate having a length greater than its width, (2) at least one fastener opening adjacent a first end, each sized for a fastener to secure to the boat seat, (3) a cylinder attached via its base end, having diameter suitable for a specified size beverage container, (4) a hole centered within the base end to provide drainage, having diameter less than the cylinder diameter, and (5) first and second flection lines parallel each other extending across the width of the flat plate, providing for bending at the first and second flection lines to situate the base end of the cylinder offset from the flat plate via the specified distance, wherein the beverage holder attachment is securable to an underside of the boat seat to provide for placement of a beverage within the cylinder.

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Description
BACKGROUND

This invention pertains to boat seats. More particularly, this invention pertains to a beverage holder attachment for a boat seat. The beverage holder attachment includes a configurable height for the beverage receptacle portion and is attachable to the underside of a boat seat for maintaining a beverage within easy arm's reach of a fisherman while seated.

BRIEF SUMMARY

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a beverage holder attachment securable to a boat seat is provided. The beverage holder attachment includes (1) a flat plate having a length and a width so that the length is greater than the width, (2) at least one fastener opening adjacent a first end of the flat plate, each including an opening sized for a corresponding fastener to extend through and to secure the beverage holder attachment to the boat seat, (3) a cylinder having a base end and an open end with a diameter, and attached via the base to a second end of the flat plate, the cylinder diameter suitable for a specified size beverage container, (4) a hole centered within the base end of the cylinder, and extending through the flat plate to provide drainage, the hole having a hole diameter less than the cylinder diameter, and (5) a first flection line and a second flection line parallel each other and extending across the width of the flat plate, the first flection line being tangentially adjacent the cylinder, and the second flection line being a specified distance from the first flection line, together providing capability for bending the flat plate at the first flection line and at the second flection line to situate the base of the cylinder at a level offset from the flat plate via the specified distance, wherein the beverage holder attachment is securable to an underside of the boat seat to provide for placement of a beverage within the cylinder.

In one embodiment, the beverage holder attachment includes multiple fastener openings arranged in a configuration matching the underside of the particular boat seat. In another embodiment, the fastener openings are two pair of opposing slots in a crossing pattern matched to a rectangular pattern of openings. In various embodiments, the flat plate is made from at least one of aluminum, stainless steel, steel, galvanized steel, and plastic.

In one embodiment, the first flection line and second flection line respectively are indicia of locations for bends in the flat plate to provide for an offset of a base level of the base end of the cylinder from a main level of the flat plate.

In another embodiment, the flat plate and the cylinder are molded as a single piece item. In yet another embodiment, the flat plate and the cylinder are molded as a single piece item so that the flat plate and the base end of the cylinder are offset from each other.

In another embodiment, a beverage holder attachment securable to a boat seat is provided, that includes (1) a flat plate having a length and a width so that the length is greater than the width, (2) a plurality of fastener openings adjacent a first end of the flat plate, each fastener opening sized for a corresponding fastener to extend through the respective fastener opening and secure the beverage holder attachment to the boat seat, (3) a cylinder having a base end and an open end with a cylinder diameter, the cylinder attached via its base to a second end of the flat plate, the cylinder diameter suitable for a specified size beverage container, (4) a drain hole centered within the base end of the cylinder, and corresponding to an opening through the flat plate, the drain hole having a diameter less than the cylinder diameter, and (5) a first flection line and a second flection line parallel each other and extending across the width of the flat plate near the cylinder, together providing capability for bending the flat plate at each flection line to situate the base end of the cylinder at a level offset from the flat plate via a distance corresponding to the distance between the respective flection lines, wherein the beverage holder attachment is securable to the underside of the boat seat for placement of a beverage within the cylinder.

In another embodiment, a beverage holder attachment securable to a boat seat is provided, that includes (1) a flat plate having length and width, and the length greater than the width, and including a cylinder having a base end and an open end with a cylinder diameter, the cylinder attached via the base end to a receptacle end of the flat plate, the cylinder diameter suitable for a specified size beverage container, (2) a plurality of fastener openings adjacent an attachment end of the flat plate opposite the receptacle end, each fastener opening sized for a corresponding fastener to extend through the respective fastener opening to secure the beverage holder attachment to the boat seat, (3) a drain hole centered within the base end of the cylinder, and corresponding to an opening extending through the flat plate, and having a diameter less than the cylinder diameter, and (4) and first and second flection lines parallel each other and extending across the width of the flat plate near the cylinder, together providing capability for bending the flat plate at each flection line to situate the base end of the cylinder at a level offset from the flat plate via a distance corresponding to the distance between the flection lines, wherein the beverage holder attachment is securable to the underside of the boat seat for placement of a beverage within the cylinder.

In another embodiment, a beverage holder attachment securable to a boat seat is provided, that includes (1) a flat plate having a length and a width so that the length is greater than the width, (2) a plurality of fastener openings adjacent a first end of the flat plate, each fastener opening sized for a corresponding fastener to extend through the respective fastener opening and secure the beverage holder attachment to the boat seat, (3) a cylinder having a base end and an open end with a cylinder diameter, the cylinder attached via its base to a second end of the flat plate, the cylinder diameter suitable for a specified size beverage container, (4) a drain hole centered within the base end of the cylinder, and corresponding to an opening through the flat plate, the drain hole having a diameter less than the cylinder diameter, and (5) a first pair of flection lines parallel each other and extending across the width of the flat plate near the cylinder, and a second pair of flection lines parallel each other and extending across the width of the flat plat near the plurality of fastener openings, the first pair and second pair of flection lines together providing capability for bending the flat plate at each flection line to situate the base end of the cylinder at a level offset from the flat plate via a maximum distance corresponding to the sum of the distances between the respective flection lines, wherein the beverage holder attachment is securable to the underside of the boat seat for placement of a beverage within the cylinder.

Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the present invention will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following drawings and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and be within the scope of the present disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above-mentioned features will become more clearly understood from the following detailed description read together with the drawings in which:

FIG. 1-A is a perspective view illustrating a boat seat beverage holder attachment;

FIG. 1-B is a perspective view illustrating the boat seat beverage holder attachment in its altered configuration;

FIG. 2-A is a perspective view illustrating an alternative boat seat beverage holder attachment;

FIG. 2-B is a perspective view illustrating the alternative boat seat beverage holder attachment in its altered configuration;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the boat seat beverage holder attachment of FIG. 1-A;

FIG. 4 is a top view of the boat seat beverage holder attachment of FIG. 1-A;

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the boat seat beverage holder attachment of FIG. 1-A;

FIG. 6 is a side view of the boat seat beverage holder attachment of FIG. 1-B in its altered configuration;

FIG. 7 is a top view of the boat seat beverage holder attachment of FIG. 1-B in its altered configuration;

FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the boat seat beverage holder attachment of FIG. 1-B in its altered configuration;

FIG. 9 is a side view of the alternative boat seat beverage holder attachment of FIG. 2-B in its altered configuration;

FIG. 10 is a top view of the alternative boat seat beverage holder attachment of FIG. 2-B in its altered configuration;

FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the alternative boat seat beverage holder attachment of FIG. 2-B in its altered configuration;

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view illustrating securing of the boat seat beverage holder attachment of FIG. 1-A to the underside of a boat seat;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating the boat seat beverage holder attachment of FIG. 1-A secured to a boat seat;

FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view illustrating securing of the boat seat beverage holder attachment in its altered configuration as in FIG. 1-B to the underside of a boat seat;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating the boat seat beverage holder attachment in its altered configuration as in FIG. 1-B secured to a boat seat; and

FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating the alternative boat seat beverage holder attachment in its altered configuration as in FIG. 2-B secured to a boat seat.

 DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A beverage holder attachment for a boat seat is disclosed. The beverage holder attachment includes a configurable height for the beverage receptacle portion and is attachable to the underside of a boat seat for maintaining a beverage within easy arm's reach of a fisherman while seated.

FIG. 1-A is a perspective view illustrating a boat seat beverage holder attachment 100-A, and FIG. 1-B is a perspective view illustrating the boat seat beverage holder attachment 100-A′ in an alternative configuration. The beverage holder attachment 100-A and the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ are attachable to the underside of a removable boat seat. In the standard configuration, the beverage holder attachment 100-A includes a flat plate 110 having a group of fastener openings 112 near one end of the plate 110 and a receptacle 120 at the opposite end. The beverage holder attachment 100-A provides a receptacle 120 for placement of a beverage container such as a cup, can, or bottle, for example, within easy arm's reach of a person seated in the boat seat. In various embodiments, the receptacle 120 has a diameter of 3.5 inches, 4 inches, or any other size suitable for a particular size or range of sizes of a respective beverage container or group of beverage containers.

The beverage holder attachment 100-A also includes a pair of parallel flection lines 114a and 114b near the receptacle 120. The flection lines 114a and 114b are used as locations for use in configuring an alternative shape of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ where the receptacle 120 has the base level offset from the level of the flat plate 110. The alternative configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ provides the receptacle 120 at a different level (lower or higher) for placement of beverages within reach. Such a configuration would be useful, for example, where the person seated in the boat seat has longer arms than is typical or simply prefers to have their beverage situated further or closer than the average person.

FIG. 2-A is a perspective view illustrating an alternative boat seat beverage holder attachment 100-B, and FIG. 2-B is a perspective view illustrating the boat seat beverage holder attachment 100-B′ in its optional altered or adjusted configuration. The alternative boat seat beverage holder attachment 100-B and the alternative boat seat beverage holder attachment 100-B′ in its optional altered configuration are attachable to the underside of a removable boat seat. In the standard configuration, the alternative boat seat beverage holder attachment 100-B includes a flat plate 110 having a group of fastener openings 112 near one end of the plate 110 and a receptacle 120 at the opposite end. When secured to a boat seat, the alternative boat seat beverage holder attachment 100-B provides a receptacle 120 for placement of a beverage container such as a cup, can, or bottle, for example, within easy arm's reach of a person seated in the boat seat. In various embodiments, the receptacle 120 has a diameter of 3.5 inches, 4 inches, or any other size suitable for a particular size or range of sizes of a respective beverage container or group of beverage containers.

The alternative boat seat beverage holder attachment 100-B also includes a first pair of parallel flection lines 114a and 114b near the receptacle 120 and a second pair of parallel flection lines 116a and 116b near the fastener openings. The flection lines 114a and 114b and flection lines 116a and 116b are used as locations for optionally configuring an altered or adjusted shape of the alternative boat seat beverage holder attachment 100-B′ where the receptacle 120 has the base level offset from the level of the flat plate 110. The altered configuration of the alternative boat seat beverage holder attachment 100-B′ provides the receptacle 120 at a different level (lower or higher) for placement of beverages within reach. Such a configuration would be useful, for example, where the person seated in the boat seat has longer arms than is typical or simply prefers to have their beverage situated further or closer than the average person.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the beverage holder attachment 100-A, FIG. 4 is a top view of the beverage holder attachment 100-A, and FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the beverage holder attachment 100-A. In the illustrated embodiment of a standard configuration, the beverage holder attachment 100-A includes a flat plate 110 having a group of fastener openings 112 near one end of the plate 110 and a receptacle 120 at the opposite end. In the illustrated embodiment, the flat plate 110 has a length that exceeds its width so that the receptacle 120 is extended away from the edge of the boat seat. The flat plate 110 is a metal material having sufficient rigidity to maintain a flat shape while supporting the weight of a beverage container in the receptacle 120. In various alternative embodiments, the flat plate 110 is made from aluminum, stainless steel, steel, galvanized steel, plastic, or other suitable materials that provide the strength, rigidity, and durability necessary for a solid structure to provide support for a beverage container placed within the receptacle.

In the illustrated embodiment, the flat plate 110 includes a plurality of fastener openings 112, through which a fastener, such as a bolt or screw, may extend for securing the beverage holder attachment 100-A to the underside of a standard boat seat. In the illustrated embodiment, the fastener openings 112 individually are slots arranged to correspond to a standard arrangement of openings on the bottom of a typical boat seat. In one embodiment, the fastener openings 112 comprise two pair of opposing slots in a crossing pattern matched, for example to a rectangular pattern of openings on the underside of a boat seat. Such varying arrangements provide for variation in the flat plate 110 structure and additional flexibility of receptacle 120 location during attachment.

A pair of parallel flection lines 114a and 114b are located near the receptacle 120. The parallel flection lines 114a and 114b are used as bend or flex locations to configure an alternative shape of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ where the receptacle 120 has the base level offset from the level of the flat plate 110. The alternative configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ provides the receptacle 120 at a different (lower or higher) level for placement of a beverage. This configuration is useful, for example, where a person in the boat seat has longer arms. In one embodiment, the parallel flection lines 114a and 114b are markings for approximate locations to flex or bend the flat plate 110 into an alternate configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′. In other embodiments, the parallel flection lines 114a and 114b are specifically structured for ease in bending, for example in a more structurally sturdy material that requires some give at the flex location for ease in flexing or bending.

In the illustrated embodiment, the beverage holder attachment 100-A also includes a beverage receptacle 120 for placement of a beverage container such as a cup, can, or bottle, for example, within easy arm's reach of a person seated in the boat seat to which the beverage holder attachment 100-A is secured. The receptacle 120 is a cylinder material attached at its base at the end of the flat plate 110 opposite the fastener openings 112. The base is attached so that the length of the receptacle 120 cylinder is perpendicular to the flat plate 110. In various embodiments, the receptacle 120 is made from the same material as the flat plate 110 and is attached in any manner common for such a material, such as welding for metals, or for thermoplastics, for example. In some embodiments, the receptacle 120 is made of a different material from the flat plate 110, but selected so that the respective materials are capable of being joined together via welding, adhesive, or other suitable material according to the specific materials involved.

In the illustrated embodiment, the receptacle 120 is a cylinder having a diameter suitable for a beverage container. The size of the cylinder corresponds to a diameter suitable for a range of beverage container sizes. In one embodiment, the receptacle 120 is a cylinder with a diameter of 3.5 inches. In another embodiment, the receptacle 120 is a cylinder with a diameter of 4 inches. Other sizes for the receptacle 120 are envisioned and considered to be within the scope of this disclosure. It should be noted that the actual diameter of the receptacle 120 for any particular embodiment is dependent on a desired size or range of sizes of a respective beverage container or group of beverage containers.

The receptacle 120, or beverage receptacle, includes a drain hole 122 at its base for allowing liquid to exit from the receptacle 120. In one typical embodiment, the flat plate 110 includes an opening corresponding to the drain hole 122. The drain hole 122 is typically centered within the base of the receptacle 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the drain hole 122 is about the size of a pencil diameter. In other embodiments, the diameter of the drain hole 122 may be larger. In any case, the diameter of the drain hole 122 is less than the cylinder diameter and small enough so that the beverage container does not slip through the drain hole 122.

FIG. 6 is a side view of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′, FIG. 7 is a top view of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′, and FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′. In the illustrated embodiment, the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ is shown in the optional or altered configuration and includes a flat plate 110 having a group of fastener openings 112 near one end of the plate 110 and a receptacle 120 at the opposite end. The flat plate 110 is shown bent at flection line 114a and at flection line 114b so that the receptacle 120 is offset at its base from the level of the flat plate 110. The beverage holder attachment 100-A′ provides a receptacle 120 for placement of a beverage container such as a cup, can, or bottle, for example, within easy arm's reach of a person seated in the boat seat. In various embodiments, the receptacle 120 has a diameter of 3.5 inches, 4 inches, or any other size suitable for a particular size or range of sizes of a respective beverage container or group of beverage containers.

In the illustrated embodiment, the optional or altered configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ includes a flat plate 110 where the receptacle 120 base level is offset from the level of the flat plate 110. The flat plate 110 is flexed or bent at the flection lines 114a and 114b to provide the offset for the receptacle 120. Specifically, the flat plate 110 is bent upward or downward at flection line 114b and bent again at flection line 114a. In one embodiment, the bends at each flection line 114a and 114b are approximately 90 degrees each so that the plane of the receptacle 120 base is substantially parallel with the main portion of the flat plane 110. It should be noted that the flection lines 114a and 114b can be bent at other combinations of angles to provide an offset so that the receptacle 120 base is substantially parallel with the main portion of the flat plate 110. It should be understood that the flection lines 114a and 114b provide for capability to offset the base of the receptacle 120 at a parallel plane above or below the main portion of the flat plane 110. That is, the base level of the receptacle 120 is offset from the level of the main portion of the flat plane 110. Such a configuration is useful, for example, where the person seated in the boat seat has longer or shorter arms than is typical or simply prefers to have their beverage situated further or closer than the average person.

In the illustrated embodiment having the optional or altered configuration, the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ includes a flat plate 110 having a group of fastener openings 112 near one end of the plate 110 and a receptacle 120 at the opposite end and offset from the main level of the flat plate 110. The flat plate 110 has a length that exceeds its width so that the receptacle 120 is extended away from the edge of the boat seat. The flat plate 110 is a metal material having sufficient rigidity to maintain a flat shape while supporting the weight of a beverage container in the receptacle 120. In various alternative embodiments, the flat plate 110 is made from aluminum, stainless steel, steel, galvanized steel, plastic, or other suitable materials that provide the strength, rigidity, and durability necessary for a solid structure to provide support for a beverage container placed within the receptacle, even with the base of the receptacle 120 offset from the main level of the flat plate 110 due to the bends at the flection lines 114a and 114b.

In the illustrated embodiment having the optional or altered configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′, the flat plate 110 includes a plurality of fastener openings 112, through which a fastener, such as a bolt or screw, may extend for securing the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ to the underside of a standard boat seat. In the illustrated embodiment, the fastener openings 112 individually are slots arranged to correspond to a standard arrangement of openings on the bottom of a typical boat seat. In one embodiment, the fastener openings 112 comprise two pair of opposing slots in a crossing pattern matched, for example to a rectangular pattern of openings on the underside of a boat seat. Such varying arrangements provide for variation in the flat plate 110 structure and additional flexibility of receptacle 120 location during attachment.

A pair of parallel flection lines 114a and 114b are located near the receptacle 120. The parallel flection lines 114a and 114b are used as locations to configure the optional shape of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ where the receptacle 120 has the base level offset from the level of the flat plate 110. The optional or altered configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ provides the receptacle 120 at a lower (or higher) level for holding a beverage. This configuration is useful, for example, where a person in the boat seat has longer arms. In one embodiment, the parallel flection lines 114a and 114b are markings identifying locations where the flat plate 110 is flexed or bent into the alternate configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′. In other embodiments, the parallel flection lines 114a and 114b are specifically structured to facilitate the bends in the flat plate 110 that provide the alternate configuration structure. One example of such structural bend facilitation is in a more structurally sturdy material that requires added give for ease in flexing or bending. In another embodiment, the optional configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ is manufactured with the bends already in place.

In the illustrated embodiment, the optional beverage holder attachment 100-A′ also includes a beverage receptacle 120 for placement of a beverage container such as a cup, can, or bottle, for example, within easy arm's reach of a person seated in the boat seat to which the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ is secured. The receptacle 120 is a cylinder material attached at its base at the end of the flat plate 110 opposite the fastener openings 112. The base is attached so that the length of the receptacle 120 cylinder is perpendicular to the flat plate 110. In various embodiments, the receptacle 120 is made from the same material as the flat plate 110 and is attached in any manner common for such a material, such as welding for metals, or for thermoplastics, for example. In some embodiments, the receptacle 120 is made of a different material from the flat plate 110, but selected so that the respective materials are capable of being joined together via welding, adhesive, or other suitable material according to the specific materials involved.

In the optional or altered beverage holder attachment 100-A′, the receptacle 120 is a cylinder having a diameter suitable for a beverage container. The size of the cylinder corresponds to a diameter suitable for a range of beverage container sizes. In one embodiment, the receptacle 120 is a cylinder with a diameter of 3.5 inches. In another embodiment, the receptacle 120 is a cylinder with a diameter of 4 inches. Other sizes for the receptacle 120 are envisioned and considered within the scope of this disclosure. It should be noted that the actual diameter of the receptacle 120 for any particular embodiment is dependent on a desired size or range of sizes of a respective beverage container or group of beverage containers.

The receptacle 120, or beverage receptacle, includes a drain hole 122 at its base for allowing liquid to exit from the receptacle 120. In one typical embodiment, the flat plate 110 includes an opening corresponding to the drain hole 122. The drain hole 122 is typically centered within the base of the receptacle 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the drain hole 122 is about the size of a pencil diameter. In other embodiments, the diameter of the drain hole 122 may be larger. In any case, the diameter of the drain hole 122 is less than the cylinder diameter and small enough so that the beverage container does not slip through the drain hole 122.

FIG. 9 is a side view of an alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′ in its optional or altered configuration, FIG. 10 is a top view of the alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′, and FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′. In the illustrated embodiment, the alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′ is shown in the optional or altered configuration and includes a flat plate 110 having a group of fastener openings 112 near one end of the plate 110 and a receptacle 120 at the opposite end. The flat plate 110 is shown bent at flection lines 114a and 114b and also at flection lines 116a and 116b so that the receptacle 120 is offset two steps or layers at its base from the level of the flat plate 110. The alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′ provides a receptacle 120 for placement of a beverage container such as a cup, can, or bottle, for example, within easy arm's reach of a person seated in the boat seat. In various embodiments, the receptacle 120 has a diameter of 3.5 inches, 4 inches, or any other size suitable for a particular size or range of sizes of a respective beverage container or group of beverage containers.

In the illustrated embodiment, the optional or altered configuration of the alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′ includes a flat plate 110 where the receptacle 120 base level is offset two steps or layers at its base from the level of the flat plate 110. The flat plate 110 is flexed or bent at the flection lines 114a and 114b and again at flection lines 116a and 116b to provide the two step (two layer) offset for the receptacle 120. The two step offset provides a stair step lowering of the receptacle 120 from the level of the flat plate 110. The maximum offset provided corresponds to the cumulative distance between both respective pair of flection lines as well as any distance created by the angle of that portion of the flat plate 110 between the two pair of flection lines. In one embodiment, this total is the distance between flection lines 114a and 114b added to the distance between flection lines 116a and 116b. An additional embodiment, would include the distance added by angling the portion of flat plate 110 between the two pair of flection lines. Specifically, the flat plate 110 is bent upward or downward at flection line 114b and bent again at flection line 114a to provide for one step of the two step offset. Also, the flat plate 110 is bent upward or downward at lection line 116b and bent again at flection line 116a to provide for a second step of the two step offset. In the illustrated embodiment, the bends correspond so that the step near the receptacle is in the same direction (up or down) as the step near the fastener openings 112. It should be noted that the steps can also be in opposing directions, that is one step up and the other step down, to accommodate different styles or shapes of boat seats.

In one embodiment, the bends at each pair of flection lines 114a and 114b and also flection lines 116a and 116b are approximately 90 degrees each so that the plane of the receptacle 120 base is substantially parallel with the main portion of the flat plane 110. It should be noted that the flection lines 114a and 114b and also flection lines 116a and 116b can be bent at other combinations of angles to provide an offset so that the receptacle 120 base is substantially parallel with the main portion of the flat plate 110. It should be understood that the flection lines 114a and 114b and flection lines 116a and 116b provide for capability to offset the base of the receptacle 120 at a parallel plane above or below the main portion of the flat plane 110. That is, the base level of the receptacle 120 is offset from the level of the main portion of the flat plane 110. Such a configuration is useful, for example, where the person seated in the boat seat has longer or shorter arms than is typical or simply prefers to have their beverage situated further or closer than the average person.

In the illustrated embodiment having the optional or altered configuration, the alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′ includes a flat plate 110 having a group of fastener openings 112 near one end of the plate 110 and a receptacle 120 at the opposite end and offset from the main level of the flat plate 110. The flat plate 110 has a length that exceeds its width so that the receptacle 120 is extended away from the edge of the boat seat. The flat plate 110 is a metal material having sufficient rigidity to maintain a flat shape while supporting the weight of a beverage container in the receptacle 120. In various alternative embodiments, the flat plate 110 is made from aluminum, stainless steel, steel, galvanized steel, plastic, or other suitable materials that provide the strength, rigidity, and durability necessary for a solid structure to provide support for a beverage container placed within the receptacle, even with the base of the receptacle 120 offset from the main level of the flat plate 110 due to the bends at the flection lines 114a and 114b and at flection lines 116a and 116b.

In the illustrated embodiment having the optional or altered configuration of the alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′, the flat plate 110 includes a plurality of fastener openings 112, through which a fastener, such as a bolt or screw, may extend for securing the alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′ to the underside of a standard boat seat. In the illustrated embodiment, the fastener openings 112 individually are slots arranged to correspond to a standard arrangement of openings on the bottom of a typical boat seat. In one embodiment, the fastener openings 112 comprise two pair of opposing slots in a crossing pattern matched, for example to a rectangular pattern of openings on the underside of a boat seat. Such varying arrangements provide for variation in the flat plate 110 structure and additional flexibility of receptacle 120 location during attachment.

A first pair of parallel flection lines 114a and 114b are located near the receptacle 120. A second pair of parallel flection lines 116a and 116b are located near the fastener openings 112. Either or both pair of the parallel flection lines 114a and 114b and parallel flection lines 116a and 116b are used as locations to configure the altered or optional shape of the alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′ where the receptacle 120 has the base level offset, in one step or two steps, from the level of the flat plate 110. The optional or altered configuration of the alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′ provides the receptacle 120 at a lower (or higher) level for holding a beverage. This configuration is useful, for example, where a person in the boat seat has longer arms or just desires the beverage container at a less or greater distance than the average person. In one embodiment, the parallel flection lines 114a and 114b and also parallel flection lines 116a and 116b are markings identifying locations where the flat plate 110 is flexed or bent into the optional or altered configuration of the alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′. In other embodiments, the parallel flection lines 114a and 114b and also parallel flection lines 116a and 116b are specifically structured to facilitate the bends in the flat plate 110 that provide the optional configuration structure. One example of such structural bend facilitation is in a more structurally sturdy material that requires added give for ease in flexing or bending. In another embodiment, the optional configuration of the alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′ is manufactured with the various bends already in place.

In the illustrated embodiment, the alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′ also includes a beverage receptacle 120 for placement of a beverage container such as a cup, can, or bottle, for example, within easy arm's reach of a person seated in the boat seat to which the beverage holder attachment 100-B′ is secured. The receptacle 120 is a cylinder material attached at its base at the end of the flat plate 110 opposite the fastener openings 112. The base is attached so that the length of the receptacle 120 cylinder is perpendicular to the flat plate 110. In various embodiments, the receptacle 120 is made from the same material as the flat plate 110 and is attached in any manner common for such a material, such as welding for metals, or for thermoplastics, for example. In some embodiments, the receptacle 120 is made of a different material from the flat plate 110, but selected so that the respective materials are capable of being joined together via welding, adhesive, or other suitable material according to the specific materials involved.

In the optional or altered alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′, the receptacle 120 is a cylinder having a diameter suitable for a beverage container. The size of the cylinder corresponds to a diameter suitable for a range of beverage container sizes. In one embodiment, the receptacle 120 is a cylinder with a diameter of 3.5 inches. In another embodiment, the receptacle 120 is a cylinder with a diameter of 4 inches. Other sizes for the receptacle 120 are envisioned and considered within the scope of this disclosure. It should be noted that the actual diameter of the receptacle 120 for any particular embodiment is dependent on a desired size or range of sizes of a respective beverage container or group of beverage containers.

The receptacle 120, or beverage receptacle, includes a drain hole 122 at its base for allowing liquid to exit from the receptacle 120. In one typical embodiment, the flat plate 110 includes an opening corresponding to the drain hole 122. The drain hole 122 is typically centered within the base of the receptacle 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the drain hole 122 is about the size of a pencil diameter. In other embodiments, the diameter of the drain hole 122 may be larger. In any case, the diameter of the drain hole 122 is less than the cylinder diameter and small enough so that the beverage container does not slip through the drain hole 122.

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view illustrating securing of the beverage holder attachment 100-A to the underside of a boat seat 10, and FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating the beverage holder attachment 100-A secured to the boat seat 10. The beverage holder attachment 100-A is secured between a post 30 and brace 20 combination and the underside of the boat seat 10. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the beverage holder attachment 100-A is situated at the desired location and angle relative to the boat seat 10. Fastening bolts extend through openings in the brace 20, through the corresponding fastener openings 112 of the flat plate 110 and into openings on the underside of the boat seat 10. It should be noted that it is within the scope of this disclosure and envisioned that the fastener openings 112 of the flat plate be mated to any particular brace 20 and boat seat 10 combination as would be known in the field. It should also be clear that the beverage holder attachment 100-A may extend from the underside of the boat seat 10 in any convenient direction as corresponds to a particular arrangement of brace 20 and openings of the boat seat 10 underside.

FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view illustrating securing of the optional or altered configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ to the underside of a boat seat 10, and FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating the optional or altered configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ secured to the boat seat 10. The optional or altered configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ is secured between a post 30 and brace 20 combination and the underside of the boat seat 10. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the optional or altered configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ is situated at the desired location and angle relative to the boat seat 10. Fastening bolts extend through openings in the brace 20, through the corresponding fastener openings 112 of the flat plate 110 and into openings on the underside of the boat seat 10. It should be noted that it is within the scope of this disclosure and envisioned that the fastener openings 112 of the flat plate be mated to any particular brace 20 and boat seat 10 combination as would be known in the field. It should also be clear that the optional or altered configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ may extend from the underside of the boat seat 10 in any convenient direction as corresponds to a particular arrangement of brace 20 and openings of the boat seat 10 underside.

Additionally, it should be clear that the optional or altered configuration of the beverage beverage holder attachment 100-A′ may constructed so that the receptacle 120 is offset in an upward or downward direction from the level of the flat plate 110. That is, the base of the receptacle 120 can be lower than or higher than the flat plate 110 level.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating the optional or altered configuration of the alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′ secured to the boat seat 10. The optional or altered configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-B′ is secured between a post 30 and brace 20 combination and the underside of the boat seat 10. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the optional or altered configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-B′ is situated at the desired location and angle relative to the boat seat 10. Fastening bolts extend through openings in the brace 20, through the corresponding fastener openings 112 of the flat plate 110 and into openings on the underside of the boat seat 10. It should be noted that it is within the scope of this disclosure and envisioned that the fastener openings 112 of the flat plate be mated to any particular brace 20 and boat seat 10 combination as would be known in the field. It should also be clear that the optional or altered configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ may extend from the underside of the boat seat 10 in any convenient direction as corresponds to a particular arrangement of brace 20 and openings of the boat seat 10 underside.

Additionally, it should be clear that the optional or altered configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ and also of the alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′ may constructed so that the receptacle 120 is offset in an upward or downward direction from the level of the flat plate 110. That is, the base of the receptacle 120 can be lower than or higher than the flat plate 110 level.

From the foregoing description, it will be recognized by those skilled in the art that boat seat beverage holder attachments 100-A, 100-A′, 100-B, and 100-B′ that includes a flat plate 110, having a plurality of fastener openings 112 near one end and a receptacle 120 at the opposite end has been provided. The beverage holder attachment 100-A provides a receptacle 120 for placement of a beverage container such as a cup, can, or bottle, for example, within easy arm's reach of a person seated in the boat seat. The receptacle 120 may include varying diameters according to particular target beverage containers. The beverage holder attachment also provides parallel flection lines 114a and 114b and parallel flection lines 116a and 116b for use and/or guidance in configuring the alternative shape of the flat plate 110 suitable for an alternative configuration beverage holder attachment 100-A′ and 100-B′ where the receptacle 120 is offset from the layer of the flat plate 110.

The beverage holder attachments 100-A, 100-A′, 100-B, and 100-B′ provide a receptacle 120 for placement of a beverage container such as a cup, can, or bottle, for example, within easy arm's reach of a person seated in the boat seat. In various embodiments, the receptacle 120 has a diameter of 3.5 inches, 4 inches, or any other size suitable for a particular size or range of sizes of a respective beverage container or group of beverage containers.

The beverage holder attachment 100-A also includes a pair of parallel flection lines 114a and 114b near the receptacle 120. The parallel flection lines 114a and 114b are used as locations for use in configuring an altered or optional beverage holder attachment 100-A′ where the receptacle 120 has the base level offset from the level of the flat plate 110. The optional or altered configuration of the beverage holder attachment 100-A′ provides the receptacle 120 at a different level (lower or higher) for placement of beverages within reach.

The alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B also includes a first pair of parallel flection lines 114a and 114b near the receptacle 120 and a second pair of parallel flection lines 116a and 116b near the fastener openings 112. The two pair of flection lines, including parallel flection lines 114a and 114b and parallel flection lines 116a and 116b are used as locations for use in configuring an altered or optional alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′ where the receptacle 120 has the base level offset from the level of the flat plate 110. The optional or altered configuration of the alternative beverage holder attachment 100-B′ provides the receptacle 120 at a different level (lower or higher) for placement of beverages within reach.

While the present invention has been described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present invention without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that the present invention not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but that the present invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A beverage holder attachment securable to a boat seat, the beverage holder attachment comprising:

a flat plate having a length and a width so that the length is greater than the width;
at least one fastener opening near a first end of the flat plate, the at least one fastener opening sized for a corresponding fastener to extend through the fastener opening to secure the beverage holder attachment to the boat seat, so that the first end of the flat plate is securable to an underside of the boat seat;
a cylinder having a base end and an open end with a cylinder diameter, the cylinder attached via the base end to a second end of the flat plate, the cylinder diameter suitable for a specified size beverage container;
a hole centered within a the base end of the cylinder, the hole extending through the flat plate to provide drainage, the hole further having a hole diameter less than the cylinder diameter; and
a first flection line and a second flection line parallel each other and extending across the width of the flat plate, the first flection line being tangent to the base end of the cylinder, and the second flection line being a specified distance from the first flection line, together providing the flat plate bendable at the first flection line and bendable at the second flection line to situate the base end of the cylinder at a level offset from the flat plate via the specified distance,
wherein the beverage holder attachment is securable to the underside of the boat seat to provide for placement of a beverage within the cylinder.

2. The beverage holder attachment of claim 1, wherein the at least one fastener opening comprises a plurality of fastener openings arranged in a configuration matching the underside of the particular boat seat.

3. The beverage holder attachment of claim 2, wherein the plurality of fastener openings comprise two pair of opposing slots in a crossing pattern matched to a rectangular pattern of openings.

4. The beverage holder attachment of claim 1, wherein the flat plate is one of:

aluminum;
stainless steel;
steel;
galvanized steel; and
plastic.

5. The beverage holder attachment of claim 1, wherein the first flection line and the second flection line respectively are indicia of a location for bends in the flat plate to provide for an offset of a base level of the base end of the cylinder from a main level of the flat plate.

6. The beverage holder attachment of claim 1, wherein the flat plate and the cylinder are molded as a single piece item.

7. The beverage holder attachment of claim 6, wherein the flat plate and a base level of the base end of the cylinder are offset from each other

8. A beverage holder attachment securable to a boat seat, the beverage holder attachment comprising:

a flat plate having a length and a width so that the length is greater than the width;
a plurality of fastener openings near a first end of the flat plate, each fastener opening of the plurality of fastener openings sized for a corresponding fastener to extend through the respective fastener opening to secure the beverage holder attachment to the boat seat, so that the first end of the flat plate is securable to an underside of the boat seat;
a cylinder having a base end and an open end with a cylinder diameter, the cylinder attached via the base end to a second end of the flat plate, the cylinder diameter suitable for a specified size beverage container;
a drain hole centered within a the base end of the cylinder, the drain hole extending through the flat plate, the drain hole further having a drain hole diameter less than the cylinder diameter; and
a first flection line and a second flection line parallel each other and extending across the width of the flat plate near the cylinder, together providing the flat plate bendable at the first flection line situated tangent to the base end of the cylinder and bendable at the second flection line to situate the base end of the cylinder at a level offset from the flat plate via a specified distance corresponding to a distance between the first flection line and the second flection line,
wherein the beverage holder attachment is securable to the underside of the boat seat to provide for placement of a beverage within the cylinder.

9. The beverage holder attachment of claim 7, wherein the plurality of fastener openings are arranged in a configuration matching the underside of the particular boat seat.

10. The beverage holder attachment of claim 8, wherein the plurality of fastener openings comprise two pair of opposing slots in a crossing pattern matched to a rectangular pattern of openings.

11. The beverage holder attachment of claim 7, wherein the flat plate is one of:

aluminum;
stainless steel;
steel;
galvanized steel; and
plastic.

12. The beverage holder attachment of claim 7, wherein the first flection line and the second flection line respectively are indicia of a location for bends in the flat plate to provide for an offset of a base level of the base end of the cylinder from a main level of the flat plate.

13. The beverage holder attachment of claim 7, wherein the flat plate and the cylinder are molded as a single piece item.

14. The beverage holder attachment of claim 13, wherein the flat plate and a base level of the base end of the cylinder are offset from each other.

15. A beverage holder attachment securable to a boat seat, the beverage holder attachment comprising:

a flat plate having a length and a width so that the length is greater than the width, the flat plate including a cylinder having a base end and an open end with a cylinder diameter, the cylinder attached via the base end to a receptacle end of the flat plate, the cylinder diameter suitable for a specified size beverage container;
a plurality of fastener openings near an attachment end of the flat plate opposite the receptacle end, each fastener opening of the plurality of fastener openings sized for a corresponding fastener to extend through the respective fastener opening to secure the beverage holder attachment to the boat seat, so that the attachment end of the flat plate is securable to an underside of the boat seat;
a drain hole centered within the base end of the cylinder, the drain hole extending through the flat plate, the drain hole further having a drain hole diameter less than the cylinder diameter; and
a first flection line and a second flection line parallel each other and extending across the width of the flat plate near the cylinder, together providing the flat plate bendable at the first flection line situated tangent to the base end of the cylinder and bendable at the second flection line to situate the base end of the cylinder at a level offset from the flat plate via a specified distance corresponding to a distance between the first flection line and the second flection line,
wherein the beverage holder attachment is securable to the underside of the boat seat to provide for placement of a beverage within the cylinder.
Patent History
Publication number: 20190125085
Type: Application
Filed: Oct 31, 2017
Publication Date: May 2, 2019
Inventor: James E. O'Neal (Marietta, GA)
Application Number: 15/798,822
Classifications
International Classification: A47C 7/68 (20060101); B63B 29/04 (20060101);