Abstract: This annular inflatable element comprises two ring-shaped elements interconnected by an inner closed belt and an outer closed belt. All these elements are welded together, and all the welds are of the sleeve coupling type without requiring any complementary or additional welding operation. The last sleeve-coupling weld is formed by placing the outer belt against the inner surface of the annular electrode, and the belt lips are folded firstly outwardly and then inwardly between the electrode and registering contra-electrodes. Paper welding barrier are interposed between the first and second folded portions of the belt lips, and the lips of the ring-shaped elements are placed against the contra-electrodes, respectively, so that the last two sleeve-coupling welds can be accomplished simultaneously. This invention is applicable notably to the manufacture of rubber dinghies.

Abstract: This inflatable boat comprising at least one hull consisting of at least first and second elements disposed side by side, inflatable separately, and one or a plurality of additional elements inflatable separately and adapted to support one or a plurality of relatively heavy members to be secured to the hull, in case the first inflatable element becomes inoperative. Preferably, the additional element is included in the volume of the first element and in the upper portion thereof, in the vicinity of the wall of the second element, so that when the first element becomes inoperative the second element can support the additional inflatable element and the heavy member is kept in a fixed position. This heavy member may consist for example of an outboard motor or a sail mast supporting structure.

Abstract: A rowlock fitting for inflatable boats made as a unitary whole having a sole with a peripheral flange for adherence to the boat. Two upstanding, rigid, reinforcing ribs centrally located on a same side of the sole and integral therewith and made of a same material reinforce the central portion of the rowlock fitting and preclude transfer of twisting forces to the boat by the oars when in use. The ribs intersect substantially normal to each other. A rigid socket for an oarlock is disposed at a region of intersection of the ribs and is encircled by this region. The rigid ribs extend radially from the socket.

Abstract: This sail mast supporting brace structure of Y or T configuration is intended for a single-hull boat and comprises three arms adapted to be secured one to the bow and the other two to the lateral portions of an inflatable hull; the side arms are adapted to cooperate with telesopic elements engaging the holes of rowlocks carried by said lateral portions. The arrangement is such that the boat can easily be operated with or without sails, without having to deflate the hull.