LIFT ASSIST BIMINI

Abstract

A bimini system for a watercraft includes at least one support member and a bimini frame including at least one bow operably coupled to the at least one support member. A lift-assist device is configured to control movement of the at least one bow of the bimini frame. The lift-assist device is associated with the at least one support member.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/316,783, filed Mar. 4, 2022, and of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/409,405, filed Sep. 23, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

Stowing a bimini top for a tower structure that is associable with a watercraft can be difficult and inefficient from a standpoint of both a time and storage space. Accordingly, a need exists in the art for a bimini top that can be easily and efficiently stowed.

Watercraft are commonly equipped with adjustable awnings such as, for example, a convertible bimini top. Typically, a bimini top includes a collapsible frame assembly supporting a flexible cover. In many designs, the bimini top can be arranged in multiple positions including a closed position and a fully deployed position. In the closed position, the frame and cover are collapsed and may be held together via a boot that wraps around the collapsed cover. In the fully deployed position, the front support structure is positioned upwardly toward the bow of the boat while the rear support is positioned upwardly toward the stern, thus deploying the cover and providing shelter thereunder. Deployment of these convertible bimini tops is typically performed manually. However, these bimini tops can be large and cumbersome, and therefore difficult to maneuver.

SUMMARY

According to an embodiment, a bimini system for a watercraft includes at least one support member and a bimini frame including at least one bow operably coupled to the at least one support member. A lift-assist device is configured to control movement of the at least one bow of the bimini frame. The lift-assist device is associated with the at least one support member.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the lift-assist device includes a gas shock.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one support member is mountable to a support structure of the watercraft.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one bow further comprises a front bow and a rear bow, wherein both the front bow and the rear bow are rotatably mounted to the at least one support member.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the front bow is rotatable relative to the rear bow.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one support member further comprises a support bracket, the support bracket being rigidly coupled to the rear bow, wherein both the support bracket and the front bow are rotatable about an axis.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the lift-assist device is operably coupled to the support bracket to rotate the support bracket about the axis.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the lift-assist device further comprises a body and movable component movable relative to the body, wherein the body is coupled to the support bracket and the movable component is coupled to a base of the at least one support member.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the bimini frame is movable between a retracted position and a stowed position and a force generated by the lift-assist device is applicable to the bimini frame to move the bimini frame from the stowed position to the retracted position.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the force generated by the lift-assist device is applicable to the bimini frame to control a lowering of the bimini frame from the retracted position to the stowed position.

According to an embodiment, a bimini frame for a watercraft includes a rear bow, a front bow operably coupled to the rear bow, at least one support leg rotatably coupled to the rear bow and a stanchion mounted to the at least one support leg. The bimini frame is transformable between a retracted position and a stowed position and the stanchion is configured to support a portion the bimini frame in both the retracted position and the stowed position.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments in the retracted position, the at least one support leg is extended relative to the rear bow and in the stowed position, the at least one support leg is collapsed relative to the rear bow.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments in the stowed position, the at least one support leg is arranged parallel to the rear bow.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the stanchion further comprises a first side and a second side, wherein a length of the first side is different than a length of the second side.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the stanchion further comprises a first side, a second side, and a third side, wherein a length of the second side is different than a length of the third side.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the second side of the stanchion is engaged with the rear bow in the retracted position, and an interface between the second side and the third side of the stanchion is configured to support the bimini frame in the stowed position.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the interface between the second side and the third side of the stanchion is connectable to a bracket in the stowed position.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the interface between the second side and the third side of the stanchion further comprises a contoured region and a shape of the contoured region is configured to cooperate with the bracket.

In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the contoured region includes a recess and a pin of the bracket is receivable within the recess.

According to an embodiment, a clip connectable to a bracket includes a body having a slot formed therein and a latch arranged within the body. The latch has an opening for receiving a post of the bracket. The latch is rotatable relative to the body between a first unlocked position and a second locked position. The latch is configured to automatically rotate from the first unlocked position to the second locked position in response to receipt of the post within the slot and the opening.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a bimini system having a bimini frame in an extended position according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a side view of the bimini system of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a bimini system having a bimini frame in a retracted position according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the bimini system of FIG. 3 according to an embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a bimini system having a bimini frame in a stowed position according to an embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a side view of the bimini system of FIG. 5 according to an embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a detailed side view of a support member when the bimini frame is in the extended position according to an embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the support member of FIG. 7 according to an embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a portion of a support member when the bimini frame is in the extended position according to an embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional of a support member when the bimini frame is in the retracted position according to an embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional of a support member when the bimini frame is in the stowed position according to an embodiment;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a portion of a support member when the bimini frame is in the stowed position according to an embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a plan view of the portion of a support member of FIG. 12 according to an embodiment;

FIG. 14 is a side view of a stanchion of the bimini frame when the bimini frame is in a retracted position according to an embodiment;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the stanchion of FIG. 14 according to an embodiment;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a stanchion of the bimini frame when the bimini frame is in a stowed position according to an embodiment;

FIG. 17 is a side view of the stanchion of FIG. 16 when the bimini frame is in a stowed position according to an embodiment;

FIG. 18 is a side view of a stanchion of the bimini frame when the bimini frame is transformed to a stowed position and the support leg is not fully collapsed according to an embodiment;

FIG. 19A is a cross-sectional view of a clip having a latch in a first unlocked position according to an embodiment;

FIG. 19B is a cross-sectional view of a clip having a latch in a second locked position according to an embodiment; and

FIGS. 20A and 20B are perspective view of the clip of FIGS. 19A and 19B according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the FIGS., an example of a bimini system 20 is shown. The bimini system 20 includes a bimini frame 22 that is adapted to support a covering or material thereon is illustrated. As shown, the bimini frame 22 may include several pieces that are formed from a strong, durable, corrosion-resistance material, such as a stainless steel or aluminum alloy for example, as will be described in more detail below. The bimini system may include at least one support member 24 operably coupled to the bimini frame. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the bimini system includes a substantially identical first support member 24a and second support member 24b coupled to a structure of a vehicle, such as the deck 12 of a watercraft or boat for example. The first support member 24a and second support member 24b may be coupled to the structure 12 directly, or alternatively, may be coupled to the structure 12 of the vehicle indirectly through another component, such as a side plate or bracket for example.

The bimini frame 22 includes at least one bow 26 connected to and extending between the first support member 24a and the second support member 24b. For example, each bow 26 typically includes a tubular member formed in a substantially U-shaped configuration having a crossbar extending between opposite side legs which are connected to the support members. However, a bow having another configuration is also contemplated herein. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the bimini frame 22 includes a rear bow 26r and a front bow 26f both of which are coupled to the first and second support members 24a, 24b. However, it should be understood that the bimini frame 22 illustrated and described herein is intended as an example only, and that a bimini frame 22 having any suitable configuration is within the scope of the disclosure. For example, the bimini frame 22 may have any number of bows, or alternatively, may have one or more members coupled to the first and/or second support members 24a, 24b individually.

The bimini frame 22 may additionally include one or more support bows 28. In an embodiment, the bimini frame 22 includes a generally u-shaped rear support bow 28r pivotally attached to the rear bow 26f. Because the height of the rear support bow 28r is less than the height of the rear bow 26f, for example less than half the height of the rear bow 26f, the rear support bow 28r may be connected to the rear bow 26f at a location closer to the bend or horizontally oriented portion than the ends of the rear bow. The horizontal portion of the rear support bow 28r may be arranged generally within the same plane as the horizontal portion of the rear bow (as shown), or alternatively, may be slightly vertically offset therefrom. In embodiments where the horizontal portion of the rear support bow 28r is elevated relative to the horizontal portion of the rear bow 26r, the bimini system 20 may have a slightly curved contour.

Alternatively, or in addition, the bimini frame 22 includes a generally u-shaped front support bow 28f pivotally attached to the front bow 26f. The height of the front support bow 28f is less than the height of the front bow 26f. As noted above, the horizontal portion of the front support bow 28f may be aligned with, or alternatively, may be vertically offset from the horizontal portion of the front bow 26f. Further, the pivotal connection between the front support bow 28f and the front bow 26f may, but need not be, arranged in the same horizontal plane as the pivotal connection between the rear support bow 28r and the rear bow 26r. It should be understood that embodiments including no support bows, a single support bow or more than two support bows are also contemplated herein.

The bimini system 20 may additionally include a permanent or removable cover 30 (see FIG. 2), formed from any suitable material, including but not limited to canvas, plastic, etc. for example, that stretches across the upper surface of the bimini frame 22 and is secured thereto via one or more affixing mechanisms. Examples of such affixing mechanisms include Velcro®, ties, snaps, and other suitable fasteners. In an embodiment, best shown in FIG. 2, the cover 30 includes one or more openings or pockets 32 through which each of the bows 26 of the bimini frame 22 extend to couple the cover 30 to the bimini frame 22. Alternatively, the cover 30 may include flaps (not shown) that are configured to wrap about each of the bows 26 of the bimini frame 22 and secure to another portion of the cover 30.

With reference to FIGS. 7-12, an example of the interface between the bows 26f, 26r and a support member 24a, 24b is illustrated in more detail. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, each of the rear bow 26r and the front bow 26f is pivotally mounted to the first and second support members 24a, 24b. The bows 26r, 26f may be movable individually and/or in combination, relative to the first and second support members 24a, 24b. The support member 24a, 24b may include a base 34 rigidly affixed to the structure 12 of the vehicle and a movable support bracket 36 operably coupled to the base 34. The support bracket 36 may be permanently or removably attached or connected to the rear bow 26f. Although the support bracket 36 is illustrated as having a U-shape (see FIG. 8) positionable about multiple surfaces of the rear bow 26f, it should be appreciated that a support bracket 36 having any suitable configuration is within the scope of the disclosure. In an embodiment, the support bracket 36 is rigidly coupled to the rear bow 26r, such as via a bolt, pin, or other suitable coupling mechanism 38 positioned at or near an end 40 of the rear bow 26r. Accordingly, the support bracket 36 is configured to move in unison with the rear bow 26r.

The support bracket 36 may further be movably coupled, for example rotatably coupled, to the base 34. As shown, a pin 42 may be used to couple the end 44 of front bow 26f to the base 34, the pin defining the axis of rotation X of the front bow 26f relative to the base 34. In an embodiment, the support bracket 36 includes a hole (not shown), within which the pin 42 is received. In such embodiments, the axis of rotation X of the front bow 26f also serves as the axis of rotation defining the movement of the rear bow 26r. Although one or more of the walls 46 of the support bracket 36 are illustrated as being arranged between the front bow 26f and an interior surface 48 of the base 34, embodiments where a portion of the support bracket 36 is positioned adjacent to an exterior surface of the base 34 are also contemplated herein.

The bimini frame 22 is transformable between a first, extended position (see FIGS. 1, 2 and 7-9), and a second, retracted position (see FIGS. 3, 4, and 10). When the bimini frame 22 is in the extended position, the front bow 26f is rotated away from the rear bow 26f, such that the cover 30 coupled to the bimini frame 22 is arranged in an open configuration. In an embodiment, best shown in FIG. 7, in the extended position, the front bow 26f is arranged generally perpendicular to the rear bow 26r. In the retracted position, the front bow 26f and the rear bow 26r may be oriented generally parallel to one another, or alternatively, may be considered stacked on top of one another in a collapsed configuration. When the bimini frame 22 is in the retracted position, the cover 30 coupled to bimini frame 22 is in a closed configuration. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the front bow 26f is pivotable about the axis X relative to the support members 24a, 24b and the structure 12 to transform the bimini frame 22 from the extended position to the retracted position. During transformation from the extended position to the retracted position, the rear bow 26r may remain fixed relative to the base 34 of the support members 24a, 24b and/or the structure 12.

As shown, in FIGS. 5 and 6, the bimini frame 22 may also be movable between the second, retracted position, and a third, stowed position. In the stowed position, the collapsed bimini frame 22 is lowered relative to the structure 12. During the transformation form the second position to the third position, the position of the front bow 26f relative to the rear bow 26f may remain fixed. As shown, both the front bow 26f and the support bracket 36 coupled to the rear bow 26r may pivot about the axis X defined by pin 42 to lower the collapsed bimini frame 22 toward the structure 12. Accordingly, the second position of the collapsed bimini frame 22 may be considered a radar position, where the bows 26f, 26r are offset from the deck 12, thereby allowing an occupant of the vehicle to pass or walk underneath the collapsed bimini frame 22.

Transformation of the bimini frame 22 between a first position, a second position, and/or a third position may be performed manually. However, in an embodiment, at least one lift-assist device 50, such as a gas shock for example, is operably coupled to the rear bow 26r to facilitate movement of the rear bow 26r between the stowed position and the retracted position when a manual force is applied thereto. One lift-assist device 50 may be sufficient to control the manual movement of the rear bow 26r. However, in other embodiments, the bimini system 20 may include two lift-assist devices 50 coupled to opposing sides of the rear bow 26r. Further, although the lift-assist device 50 is illustrated as being located within a support member 24a, 24b, such as within the interior of the base 34 for example, embodiments where a lift-assist device 50 is located at another position are also contemplated herein.

As shown, the lift-assist device 50 includes a first portion fixedly coupled to the base 34 of the support member 24a, 24b and a second portion operably coupled to the rear bow 26r, such as to the support bracket 36 affixed to the rear bow 26r for example. In an embodiment, the lift-assist device 50 includes a body 52 and a piston or other movable component 54 configured to translate linearly relative to the body. The body 52 may be the second portion mechanically coupled to the support bracket 36 and the piston 54 may be the first portion mechanically coupled to the base 34. However, embodiments where the body 52 is coupled to the base 34 and the piston 54 is coupled to the support bracket 36 are also within the scope of the disclosure. Further, it should be understood that embodiments where the lift-assist device 50 has another configuration, and where the movable component 54 is configured to move in another manner, such as rotate for example, relative to the body 52 are also contemplated herein. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the second portion of the lift-assist device 50 is pivotably coupled to the support bracket 36, such as via a pin 56 for example. The first portion of the lift-assist device 50 my also be pivotally coupled to the base 34 via a pin or other suitable connection mechanism 58.

In operation, as the bimini frame 22 is raised from the stowed position to the retracted position, the movable portion 54 of the lift-assist device 50 is biased away from the fixed portion 52 thereof. As a result, the translation or other movement of the movable portion 54 relative to the fixed portion 52 applies a force to the support bracket 36. The force applied to the end of the support bracket 36 causes the support bracket 36 to rotate about the axis X defined by the pin 42. In an embodiment, the configuration of the lift-assist device 50 is selected such that when the lift-assist device 50 is in the extended configuration, the bimini frame 22 is in the retracted position, and therefore the support bracket 36 is in a corresponding position relative to the base 34. Further, the resistance provided by the lift-assist device 50 when moving the movable portion 54 towards the fixed portion 52 may facilitate a controlled lowering of the bimini frame 22 toward the structure 12.

In an embodiment, the connection between the lift-assist device 50 and the bimini frame 22 relative to the axis of rotation of the support bracket 36 is designed to apply the greatest amount of force to the bimini frame 22 when the frame 22 is in the stowed position and is heaviest to move. Specifically, the geometry of support bracket 36 and its connection with the lift-assist device 50 may be intended to maximize the force applied by the lift-assist device 50 to the support bracket 36 when the bimini frame 22 is in the stowed position. As the bimini frame 22 rotates toward the retracted position, and the geometry between the lift assist device 50 and the support bracket 36 changes, the force applied by the lift-assist device 50 reduces.

With reference again to FIGS. 1-6, in an embodiment, the bimini frame 22 additionally includes at least one support leg 60 extending from the rear bow 26r. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a first support leg 60a is connected to and extends from a portion of the rear bow 26r aligned with the first support member 24a and a second support leg 60b is connected to and extends from a portion of the rear bow 26r aligned with the second support member 24b. The first and second support legs 60a, 60b may but need not be substantially identical.

The at least one support leg 60a, 60b is pivotally mounted to the rear bow 26r, such as via pin 61 for example, and is rotatable between an extended configuration (FIGS. 1-4) and a collapsed configuration (FIGS. 5-6). The support leg is in the extended configuration when the bimini frame 22 is in extended and retracted positions and the support leg is in the collapsed configuration when the bimini frame is in the stowed position. In the collapsed configuration, the support leg 60a, 60b may be oriented substantially parallel to the rear bow 26r, and in the extended configuration, the at least one support leg 60a, 60b extends at an angle to the rear bow 26r. In the extended configuration, the support leg 60a, 60b is configured to support or stabilize the bimini frame 22 at a location offset from the structure 12. Therefore, in an embodiment, the distal end 62 of the at least one support leg 60a, 60b is connectable to a bracket or connector 64 to selectively lock the support leg 60a, 60b in the extended position. As shown, the bracket 64 may be an H-bracket including a pin 66 or post extending between opposite sides of the bracket 64. In such embodiments, the distal end 62 of the support leg 60a, 60b may include a hook defining a slot 68 (best shown in FIG. 6) configured to receive a portion of the H-bracket 64, such as the post 66 for example, therein.

With reference now to FIGS. 14-18, in an embodiment, a stanchion 70 is mounted to a surface of the at least one support leg 60, such as at the rear surface thereof 72, near the interface with the rear bow 26r. The stanchion 70 is generally triangular in shape and has a first side 74 affixed to the support leg 60 and having a first length and a second side 76 having a second length. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the second length is greater than the first length. However, it should be understood that embodiments where the second length is equal to or even shorter than the first length are also within the scope of the disclosure.

When the support leg 60 is in the extended configuration, at least a portion of the second side 76 of the stanchion 70 is engaged with or abuts the adjacent surface of the rear bow 26r. Accordingly, the stanchion 70 is positioned between the support leg 60 and the rear bow 26r to support the bimini frame 22 in an extended or retracted position. When the support leg 60 is in the collapsed configuration, and therefore the bimini frame 22 is transformed to a stowed position, a distal end of the second side 76, or alternatively, the interface between the second side 76 and a third side 78 of the stanchion, is configured to engage the bracket or connector 64. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the stanchion 70 includes a contoured region 80 arranged at the interface between the second and third sides or the stanchion. The shape of the contoured region is select to cooperate with a portion of the bracket 64, such as with the pin for example. As shown, the contoured region includes a groove or recess and the pin is receivable within the recess. This engagement between the bracket 64 and the stanchion 70 is configured to support the bimini frame 22 in the stowed position. Further, the contoured region may be shaped to facilitate engagement even the support leg 60 is not fully collapsed when the bimini frame 22 is lowered to the stowed position, as shown in FIG. 18. As shown, as a result of the shape of the contoured region 80, the engagement between the post 66 and an edge of the contoured region 80 will cause the stanchion 70 to rotate to properly seat the post 66 within the contoured region 80, thereby causing the support leg 60 to rotated to the collapsed configuration. Accordingly, the angles formed between the sides 74, 76, 78 of the stanchion 70 are selected to achieve proper engagement with the bimini frame 22 and/or the bracket 64 depending on the configuration of the bimini frame 22 and the support leg 60. It should be appreciated that although the bimini system 20 is illustrated in each of the FIGS. with the rear bow 26r being arranged closest to the stern or rear of the watercraft and the front bow 26f being positioned closest to the bow of the watercraft, embodiments where the entire bimini system 20 is rotated 180 degrees such that the rear bow 26r is facing the bow and the front bow 26f is facing the stern are also within the scope of the disclosure.

With reference now to FIGS. 19A-20B, an example of a clip or connector 100, such as arranged at the distal end of the at least one support leg 60a, 60b is illustrated in more detail. As previously noted, the bracket 64 mounted to the deck or structure 12 of the watercraft is configured to cooperate with the clip 100 to lock the support leg 60a, 60b in the extended position. As shown and previously described, the clip 100 includes a housing 102 having a slot 104 formed therein and configured to receive a portion of the bracket 64, such as pin or post 66 for example, therein. In an embodiment, the clip 100 may additionally include a latch 106 positioned within the interior of the housing 102 and rotatable relative to the slot 104. The latch 106 includes an opening or throat 108 configured to selectively trap or retain the post 66 within the slot 104, thereby coupling the clip 100 to the bracket 64. The latch 106 may include an input member or lever 110 protruding from a side of the housing 102 for manual operation of the latch 106 by a user.

When the latch 106 is in a first position (see FIG. 19A), the opening 108 formed in the latch 106 is generally aligned with the slot 104. When the latch 106 is in the second position (FIG. 19B), the latch 106 is rotated about its axis such that the opening 108 formed in the latch 106 is not aligned with the slot 104. In this rotated position, a portion of the latch 106 extends across the slot 104. In embodiments where the post 66 is positioned within the slot 104, and the portion of the latch 106 is arranged between the post 66 and an open end of the slot 104, the latch 106 restricts movement of the post 66 relative to the latch 106 and the slot 104.

In an embodiment, the latch 106 is configured to automatically rotate from the first unlocked position to the second locked position in response to receipt of the post 66 therein. As the post 66 is received within the opening 108 of the latch 106, the post 66 applies a force to a surface of the latch 106 facing the opening 108. This force may cause the latch 106 to rotate about its axis from the first position to the second position. In an embodiment, the surface of the latch 106 is contoured, for example curved, to facilitate rotation from the first position to the second position. To release the post 66 and separate the clip 100 of the support leg 60a, 60b from the bracket 64, a user applies a force to the lever 110 of the latch, thereby rotating the latch from the second position to the first position. At the same time, a user may move, for example translate or rotate the housing 102 of the clip 100 away from the bracket 64. As a result, not only does the latch 106 rotate, but the post 66 translates within the opening 108 and slot 104, until separating from the clip 100.

All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.

The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) is to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention. Variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

Claims

1. A bimini system for a watercraft comprising:

at least one support member;

a bimini frame including at least one bow operably coupled to the at least one support member; and

a lift-assist device configured to control movement of the at least one bow of the bimini frame, the lift-assist device being associated with the at least one support member.

2. The bimini system of claim 1, wherein the lift-assist device includes a gas shock.

3. The bimini system of claim 1, wherein the at least one support member is mountable to a support structure of the watercraft.

4. The bimini system of claim 1, wherein the at least one bow further comprises a front bow and a rear bow, wherein both the front bow and the rear bow are rotatably mounted to the at least one support member.

5. The bimini system of claim 4, wherein the front bow is rotatable relative to the rear bow.

6. The bimini system of claim 4, wherein the at least one support member further comprises a support bracket, the support bracket being rigidly coupled to the rear bow, wherein both the support bracket and the front bow are rotatable about an axis.

7. The bimini system of claim 6, wherein the lift-assist device is operably coupled to the support bracket to rotate the support bracket about the axis.

8. The bimini system of claim 7, wherein the lift-assist device further comprises a body and movable component movable relative to the body, wherein the body is coupled to the support bracket and the movable component is coupled to a base of the at least one support member.

9. The bimini system of claim 1, wherein the bimini frame is movable between a retracted position and a stowed position and a force generated by the lift-assist device is applicable to the bimini frame to move the bimini frame from the stowed position to the retracted position.

10. The bimini system of claim 9, wherein the force generated by the lift-assist device is applicable to the bimini frame to control a lowering of the bimini frame from the retracted position to the stowed position.

11. A bimini frame for a watercraft comprising:

a rear bow;

a front bow operably coupled to the rear bow;

at least one support leg rotatably coupled to the rear bow; and

a stanchion mounted to the at least one support leg;

wherein the bimini frame is transformable between a retracted position and a stowed position, the stanchion being configured to support a portion the bimini frame in both the retracted position and the stowed position.

12. The bimini frame of claim 11, wherein in the retracted position, the at least one support leg is extended relative to the rear bow and in the stowed position, the at least one support leg is collapsed relative to the rear bow.

13. The bimini frame of claim 11, wherein in the stowed position, the at least one support leg is arranged parallel to the rear bow.

14. The bimini frame of claim 12, wherein the stanchion further comprises a first side and a second side, wherein a length of the first side is different than a length of the second side.

15. The bimini frame of claim 12, wherein the stanchion further comprises a first side, a second side, and a third side, wherein a length of the second side is different than a length of the third side.

16. The bimini frame of claim 15, wherein the second side of the stanchion is engaged with the rear bow in the retracted position, and an interface between the second side and the third side of the stanchion is configured to support the bimini frame in the stowed position.

17. The bimini frame of claim 16, wherein the interface between the second side and the third side of the stanchion is connectable to a bracket in the stowed position.

18. The bimini frame of claim 17, wherein the interface between the second side and the third side of the stanchion further comprises a contoured region and a shape of the contoured region is configured to cooperate with the bracket.

19. The bimini frame of claim 18, wherein the contoured region includes a recess and a pin of the bracket is receivable within the recess.

20. A clip connectable to a bracket, the clip comprising:

a body having a slot formed therein;

a latch arranged within the body, the latch having an opening for receiving a post of the bracket, the latch being rotatable relative to the body between a first unlocked position and a second locked position;

wherein the latch is configured to automatically rotate from the first unlocked position to the second locked position in response to receipt of the post within the slot and the opening.