Abstract: A retractable boat awning or “bimini cover” is provided. The present retractable boat awning may replace existing awnings on a boat or may be added to a boat which lacks an awning. The present retractable boat awning has a first folding locking bar and a second folding locking bar which are concealed within a slim securing container when the device is not in use. To use the awning, the first and the second locking bar are rotated outward from the interior of the securing container and secure a protective awning fabric cover. The awning may be fully assembled into the usable form or may be collapsed into the stored securing container in around a minute.

Abstract: A convertible bimini top for a marine vessel has a cover frame, a support arm for supporting the cover frame above the marine vessel, the support arm having a lower end configured to be pivotably coupled to the marine vessel and an upper end pivotably coupled to the cover frame, a lower actuator coupled to the lower end of the support arm, the lower actuator being configured to pivot the support arm relative to the marine vessel to move the cover frame up and down relative to the marine vessel, and an upper actuator coupled to the upper end of the support arm and to the cover frame, the upper actuator being configured to pivot the cover frame relative to the support arm.

Abstract: A method performed by a first communication device operating in a wireless communications network. The first communication device obtains a first set of one or more values indicating an observed speed of a boat relative to a power of an engine of the boat. The speed and the first indication are obtained by from sensors in the boat. The first communication device then obtains a second indication of an external factor on the hull of the boat causing friction against water. The obtaining of the second indication is based at least on: the obtained first set, and a reference. The reference is based on one of: a) a threshold, and b) a mathematical model. The first communication device also initiates providing a third indication of the external factor to a device, based on the obtained second indication.

Abstract: A bimini having a collapsible frame and a top is disclosed. The collapsible frame, which has a first support and a second support that is pivotable relative to the first support about a pivot axis, is movable between a collapsed configuration and an extended configuration. The top, which has a first top portion that defines a cavity and a second top portion that is flexible, extends between the first and second supports. In the extended configuration of the collapsible frame, the top is taut between the first and second supports, and in the collapsed configuration of the collapsible frame, the second top portion is selectively at least partially stored in the cavity defined by the first top portion. A watercraft having the bimini is also disclosed.

Abstract: Windshield systems for boats and methods of using the same are described herein. The windshield systems described herein include a pass-thru section that rotates between open and closed positions about an axis located proximate the top end of the pass-thru section.

Abstract: A bimini for a boat includes a cover mountable to the boat and an inflation system arranged in fluid communication with the bimini. The bimini is transformable between a stowed position, a retracted position, and an extended position. The bimini is transformable between the retracted position and the extended position via operation of the inflation system.

Abstract: A bimini has a collapsible frame having a first support and a second support pivotable about a first pivot axis, a top, a tensioner having a first arm pivotally connected to the first support about a second pivot axis and a second arm pivotally connected to the second support about a third pivot axis and to the first arm about a fourth pivot axis, and a tension adjuster for adjusting a distance between the second and third pivot axes. The tensioner has an unlocked position where the fourth pivot axis is on a first side of a plane containing the second and third pivot axes, and a locked position where the fourth pivot axis is on a second side of the plane. In the locked position, the collapsible frame is not movable from an extended configuration and to a collapsed configuration. A watercraft having the bimini is also disclosed.

Abstract: Various implementations include a frame for supporting a bimini top. The frame includes base, forward, and aft assemblies. The forward assembly has a first portion and a second portion rotatably coupled to a forward portion of the base assembly. The aft assembly has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the aft assembly is slidably coupled to an aft portion of the base assembly. The forward and aft assemblies are movable between collapsed and extended positions. The forward or aft assembly is operatively coupled to a drive assembly such that rotation of a pulley of the drive assembly relative to the base assembly causes the forward or aft assembly to move between the collapsed and extended positions. Movement of the forward assembly from the collapsed position to the extended position causes the aft assembly to move from the collapsed position to the extended position.

Abstract: A jack device, system, and method pulls boat covers taut and protects against water pooling. An inflatable cylinder, when deflated, is positioned under a boat cover which is snapped into place. An inflating line extends from the cylinder to outside the boat. The cylinder is inflated through the line, from outside the boat, with the cover snapped in place. The cover is pulled taut and the inflating stops.

Abstract: An extendable and retractable boat awning device that is mountable on at least one side of a boat to a boat roof top so that when the awning device is opened it allows people in the water to swim or float in shade outside the boat and is retractable when it is no longer needed, or the boat is preparing to move wherein it generally includes a canopy assembly and a support base that is mountable to the roof of a boat wherein the canopy assembly is pivotally attached at one end to the support base by a plurality of pivoting support rods that support and extend a flexible canopy and the support base includes an encasement, encasement cover, a plurality of base mounting assemblies each having a mounting beam extending from a ceiling mounting plate wherein the ceiling mounting plate is mountable to a boat roof for supporting the boat awning device on the boat and that may be easily removed from the boat.

Abstract: A bimini system for use with a support structure includes a bimini assembly transformable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The bimini assembly includes a frame and a cover affixed to the frame. A gathering system includes a gathering mechanism associated with the cover. The gathering mechanism is movable to at least one of fold and gather the cover as the bimini assembly transforms from the open configuration to the closed configuration.

Abstract: The light source contains a gas-filled chamber with a plasma sustained by a focused beam of a continuous wave laser. The means for plasma ignition is a solid-state laser system which generates two pulsed laser beams: in a free running mode and in a Q-switched mode. The solid-state laser system contains single active element and its optical cavity is equipped with a Q-switch overlapping only part of a cross section of the intracavity laser beam. One pulsed laser beam provides an optical breakdown after which another pulsed laser beam ignites the plasma, the volume and density of which are sufficient for stationary sustenance of the plasma by the focused beam of the continuous wave laser. EFFECT: simplification of the design of the light source, increase of its reliability and ease of use, creating on this basis of powerful electrode-free high-brightness broadband light sources with high spatial and energy stability.

Abstract: A rail system for a pontoon boat is provided. The rail system allows for the addition and removal of a pontoon boat skin, as well as additional features and attachments without dismantling the rail system. The system may include detachable rail caps and/or rail attachments that hold the skin against the rail. The rails also include features to attach exterior attachments such as accents, bumpers, and inserts.

Abstract: The protective cover as described will protect the outer surface of a vessel from debris that may strike the vessel either in the water or during sporting events such as fishing. Any damage to a boat is typically expensive and time consuming and is generally to be avoided by the boat owner.

Abstract: A boat includes a bow and a stern, a deck between the bow and the stern, a longitudinal centerline extending from the bow to the stern dividing the deck into a port side and a starboard side, and a side shade assembly attached to the boat on one of the port side of the deck and the starboard side of the deck. The side shade assembly includes a frame and a side shade cover supported by the frame such that the side shade cover extends outboard beyond the deck in a direction away from the longitudinal centerline.

Abstract: Various implementations include a seat assembly having one or more track brackets, one or more slide brackets, and a seat bottom. A track face of each of the track brackets defines one or more tracks. A first end of each of the tracks is closer than a second end of the respective track to a fore edge and a bottom edge of the track bracket. The slide brackets include one or more pins slidably engaging one of the tracks. The slide brackets are slidable between a first slide position and a second slide position. At least one of the pins is located adjacent the first end of the track in the first slide position and one of the pins is located adjacent the second end of the track in the second slide position. The seat bottom is coupled to the slide brackets.

Abstract: A retractable shade system for attachment to a boat structure is disclosed. The retractable shaded system can include a housing removeable attachable to the existing boat structure. A pair of telescoping swing arms are pivotally connected at opposite ends of the housing, where the pair of swing arms are moveable between a folded and unfolded position. A retractable cover connected to the housing and movable between a furled position and an unfurled position. When the in the furled position, the retractable cover is positioned in the housing adjacent to the pair of telescoping swing arms, and in the unfurled position the retractable cover extends between and along the length of the unfolded pair of telescoping swing arms. The retractable cover is connected to ends of the parallelly unfolded pair of telescoping swing arms to form the shade/awning.

Abstract: An articulating top having a frame, a cover attached to the frame and a mounting bracket to attach the frame to a vehicle can be moved between a deployed position to provide shelter to an area below the top and a stowed position. The frame having main and secondary frame members in addition to one or more struts between a frame member and the vehicle to provide additional support to the frame such that the top can be used while the vehicle is in motion or in windy conditions. The top may also use one or more braces.

Abstract: The Boating Accessory is a multi-use fastener designed to attach to various surfaces or objects on a boat. The Boating Accessory may include a body hingedly connected to an arm with a suction mechanism that can be used to secure a corner onto either fiberglass or window glass. The Boating Accessory may include a clip with a rounded portion that can be used to attach to most stainless handles or deck railing with a strong spring for clamping. The clip is useful in attaching to fabrics or hard roofs with a friction member at the contact point. The multi-use fastener may be used to secure a shade anywhere on a boat to immediately and effectively block the sun's rays. When the sun moves lower to the horizon, the multi-use fasteners can be quickly repositioned.

Abstract: This hard top boat cover is designed for panels to fit the bow, middle, and stern section of different width and length size boats of similar design through using a “mix and match” system. This means that each section will have more than one panel that can be chosen from for a proper fit. The result is a hard-shell boat cover that can be created for different width and length boats solving the problem of having just one size cover that fits one size boat. The cover's overlap design allows it to fit several boats without interference from gunnel attachments or interior boat obstructions. The cover's design works with an adjustable bracket brace that holds the panel covers up over the boat while being held down by straps that connect it to the boat trailer. The bracket brace design can be placed on a range of gunnel widths and at locations on the gunnel that adjust to the width of the beam of the boat for a snug fit without scarring the gunnel.

Abstract: The invention relates to devices, systems, and methods that involve automatically lifting a boat cover above an interior of the boat.

Abstract: Systems and techniques for a pontoon covering system are described herein. In an example, a pontoon cover on a spindle is mounted to the rear of the pontoon using a one or more mounting brackets, the mounting bracket including a first portion configured to translate longitudinally with respect to second portion. The cover can be positioned over a support structure connected to the pontoon. The support structure may al low the cover, including a cover securing member support to be aligned with a cover securing member attached to the side of the pontoon. The cover may be secured in the front by a front securing member, and pulled taut over the support structure by turning a handle connected to the spindle while the cover securing member is secured or engaged at least partially within the cover securing member support.

Abstract: A telescoping boat tower (1800), including: a center section (1814); a first support (1802) secured to a first end of the center section, the first support including a first telescoping assembly (1804); and a second support (1808) secured to a second end of the center section, the second support including a second telescoping assembly (1810). The first telescoping assembly and the second telescoping assembly cooperate to raise and lower the center section between a first position and a second position. The center section includes an integrated sun lounge platform (1820) configured as a cockpit cover for a boat, the sun lounge platform including a seating arrangement (1822).

Abstract: Disclosed are an extendable and retractable fairing for a container ship and a control method thereof. The extendable and retractable fairing includes a controller, a support skeleton, a wind velocity detector, a first flexible deflector, second and third flexible deflectors, and accommodation mechanisms. The third flexible deflectors are sequentially arranged between the first and second flexible deflectors; the support skeleton includes guide-track grooves; the second and third flexible deflectors each are slidably provided in a corresponding guide-track groove; the accommodation mechanisms each include an accommodation winding tube and a drive motor; the accommodation winding tube is provided at one side of a deck at the bow; the drive motor is connected to the accommodation winding tube; the wind velocity detector is provided on the first flexible deflector; and the second and third flexible deflectors each are provided in the accommodation winding tube.

Abstract: An articulating top having a frame, a cover attached to the frame and a mounting bracket to attach the frame to a vehicle can be moved between a deployed position to provide shelter to an area below the top and a stowed position. The frame having main and secondary frame members in addition to one or more struts between a frame member and the vehicle to provide additional support to the frame such that the top can be used while the vehicle is in motion or in windy conditions. The top may also use one or more braces.

Abstract: A ship security device is disclosed including a barrier and a panel. The security device may transition between a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration the security device is unassembled and at least the barrier may be arranged in a storage configuration in which the barrier curves or bends through a first angle, and in the second configuration the security device is assembled in an arrangement for use, in which the security device may be assembled around a rail. In the second configuration at least a part of the panel is orientated to be substantially vertical, and the barrier is curved, bent or folded through a second angle, which is greater than the first angle, to protrude away from the panel in a horizontal direction, perpendicular from a plane extending vertically through the rail, to provide an overhang on an exterior side of the rail.

Abstract: Methods and systems for providing coverings and related support structures are provided. In various embodiments, methods and systems of the disclosure are suitable for and well adapted for use with small watercraft such as rafts. Methods and systems of the present disclosure provide a means for quick and easy assembly and disassembly of shadings and coverings as well as convenient storage.

Abstract: A combination radar arch and bimini top includes a radar arch securable on a boat deck over a boat cabin and a bimini top assembly secured to the radar arch. The bimini top assembly includes at least one bimini top base secured on the radar arch, a bimini arm pivotally connected to the bimini top base, and a spring-loaded roller assembly secured to the radar arch and including a canopy connected between the radar arch and the bimini arm. The bimini top base has a drive mechanism coupled with the bimini arm that is configured to displace the bimini arm between a retracted position and an extended position.

Abstract: A device for holding a boat fender in place at an installation site, such as a dock. The device including a main fabric body that is foldable and has a first end, an opposing second end, a first side, and an opposing second side. The device further includes first and second adjustable fasteners configured to attach the second end to the first end for allowing the main fabric body to cradle and hold the boat fender. A boat fender strap has a first end that is attached to the main fabric body and an opposing second end that is detachably attached to the main fabric body. The boat fender strap is configured to pass through a center hole of the boat fender for securely attaching the boat fender to the main fabric body.

Abstract: An articulating top having a frame, a cover attached to the frame and a mounting bracket to attach the frame to a vehicle can be moved between a deployed position to provide shelter to an area below the top and a stowed position. The frame having main and secondary frame members in addition to one or more struts between a frame member and the vehicle to provide additional support to the frame such that the top can be used while the vehicle is in motion or in windy conditions. The top may also use one or more braces.

Abstract: The invention relates to a bimini-style boat cover frame having electronically actuated worm gear drive units, the worm gear drive unit mounted on a boat and connected to a front frame assembly and a back frame assembly that supports a canopy covering.

Abstract: An articulating top having a frame, a cover attached to the frame and a mounting bracket to attach the frame to a vehicle can be moved between a deployed position to provide shelter to an area below the top and a stowed position. The frame having main and secondary frame members in addition to one or more struts between a frame member and the vehicle to provide additional support to the frame such that the top can be used while the vehicle is in motion or in windy conditions. The top may also use one or more braces.

Abstract: A bimini system for use with a support structure includes a bimini assembly transformable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The bimini assembly includes a frame and a cover affixed to the frame. A gathering system includes a gathering mechanism associated with the cover. The gathering mechanism is movable to at least one of fold and gather the cover as the bimini assembly transforms from the open configuration to the closed configuration.

Abstract: The invention relates to devices, systems, and methods that involve automatically lifting a boat cover above an interior of the boat.

Abstract: A rigid weather guard for a center console of a power boat includes a rapidly deployable protective shield. The shield has a top edge, a bottom edge, a first side edge that is pivotably connectable with a portion of the boat, and a second side edge that is configured for connection with a gunwale of the power boat. The pivotable connection of the first side edge provides movement between an open and closed position. When in the open position, the second side edge is connected with the gunwale securing the shield in place to block adverse weather. Preferably, the protective shield has a transparent portion.

Abstract: A resilient clip can be used for covers for equipment. The resilient clip has a portion that can be inserted into a channel on the equipment, a portion that can be attached to a cover, and a portion that can be used to remove the clip from the channel.

Abstract: A boat having a windscreen attached to the boat without the use of tools. The boat has a T-top including a canopy supported in an elevated position by an upright support fixed to the boat. A rigid boat windscreen having a plurality of clamps is mounted to the rigid boat windscreen and also mounted to the upright support. The clamps are mounted to the support manually without the use of tools and the clamps each include a mount secured to the rigid screen and a C-shaped, flexible portion connected to the mount and positioned about the support.

Abstract: Systems and techniques for a pontoon covering system are described herein. In an example, a pontoon cover on a spindle is mounted to the rear of the pontoon using a one or more mounting brackets, the mounting bracket including a first portion configured to translate longitudinally with respect to second portion. The cover can be positioned over a support structure connected to the pontoon. The support structure may allow the cover, including a cover securing member support to be aligned with a cover securing member attached to the side of the pontoon. The cover may be secured in the front by a front securing member, and pulled taut over the support structure by turning a handle connected to the spindle while the cover securing member is secured or engaged at least partially within the cover securing member support.

Abstract: A drive mechanism for a bimini top with a pair of bimini arms supporting the bimini top includes a motor, a worm screw coupled with the motor for rotation by the motor, and a driven gear coupled with the worm screw. One of the pair of bimini arms is connected to the driven gear, and the driven gear is configured for displacement between a stowed position and an extended position by operation of the motor. A pivot hub engages the driven gear via an intermediate hub, and the other of the pair of bimini arms is connected to the pivot hub. The pivot hub and intermediate hub are configured for displacement between a down position and an up position by operation of the motor through the driven gear and the intermediate hub. A first arc spanned by the driven gear between the stowed position and the extended position is greater than a second arc spanned by the pivot hub between the down position and the up position.

Abstract: A cover assembly for a watercraft comprising a cover body having a front end, an air dam, and two lateral sides, wherein a non-uniform arch is formed at one of the lateral sides longitudinal to a direction of air flow. In addition, the non-uniform arch has a front portion having a radius between 400 inches to 300 inches, a back having a radius between 100 inches to 50 inches, and a central portion having a radius at least greater than 1000 inches.

Abstract: Described herein are examples of a watercraft with a hull defining a hull cavity. A canopy may be removably coupled to the hull via a canopy interface. The canopy interface includes a first portion fixed to the hull and a second portion fixed to the canopy. The first portion defines an opening through the hull into the hull cavity. The second portion is configured to be removably coupled to the first portion to enclose and seal the opening whereby the canopy interface is configured to interchangeably couple any one of a plurality of different canopies including the canopy to the hull. Each canopy of the plurality of different canopies may include a different configuration that provides a different access opening into the hull cavity or reconfigures the hull with a different outer profile.

Abstract: An inflatable boat comprises a body and a tube. The tube is located adjacent to the body. A tensioning member is located between the body and the tube. The tensioning member couples the body to the tube such that a top surface of the body and a top surface of the tube are coplanar. The body can define at least one footrest groove to allow a user to lean and rest their feet on the body.

Abstract: Techniques for implementing and/or operating a deployment system that includes a vehicle frame of a deployment vehicle, a drive sub-system, which includes wheels secured to the vehicle frame, a swage machine, and a fluid power sub-system. The swage machine includes a grab plate, which interlocks with a grab notch on a pipe fitting to be secured to a pipe segment, which includes tubing that defines a pipe bore and a fluid conduit implemented in an annulus of the tubing, a die plate including a die, and a fluid actuator that actuates the grab plate toward the die plate to facilitate conformally deforming a fitting jacket of the pipe fitting around the tubing of the pipe segment. The fluid power sub-system selectively powers the drive sub-system or the swage machine based on a target operation to be performed by the deployment vehicle.

Abstract: An adjustable shade system for adding a shade to a boat includes a pair of adjustable shade supports, each of the pair of adjustable shade supports having a base configured to be securely installed in the gimbal connection of a rod holder, the base comprising a groove configured to connect to the gimbal connection of the rod holder and an outer diameter that is configured to fit tightly within a conventional rod holder. A rod extends from the base, and an adjuster having a connector is adjustably connected to the rod to allow vertical adjustment along a length of rod. A shade is connectable to the connectors of the pair of adjustable shade supports and also connectable to a structure of the boat or one or more additional adjustable shade support.

Abstract: An articulating top having a frame, a cover attached to the frame and a mounting bracket to attach the frame to a vehicle can be moved between a deployed position to provide shelter to an area below the top and a stowed position. The frame having main and secondary frame members in addition to one or more struts between a frame member and the vehicle to provide additional support to the frame such that the top can be used while the vehicle is in motion or in windy conditions. The top may also use one or more braces.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a bendable elongated assembly extendable over a watercraft. A coupler assembly is configured to couple the bendable elongated assembly to the watercraft. An engagement assembly configured to engage the bendable elongated assembly. This is done in such a way that the engagement assembly, in use, urges the bendable elongated assembly to bend and form an arched structure positioned over the watercraft once the bendable elongated assembly is extended over the watercraft and is coupled to the watercraft.

Abstract: An audio system in a marine vessel may be created or enhanced using existing parts of the marine vessel. One or more audio transducers may be secured directly to the windshield, and once connected with an audio input, the windshield acts as a transparent speaker.

Abstract: A shade canopy configured for use on all model Personal Watercrafts (PWC) is described. A Bimini Top provides shade from the sun to occupants of the PWC. The bimini top provides the ability to board and unboard from the sides of the PWC. This apparatus also folds and stores on the rear of the PWC and is contained in a zippered boot with straps. The bimini top supports a permanent or non-permanent mounting system to the hull to avoid hull modification. Two variants, a folding or telescoping support structure are available which facilitate accessories such as racks and coolers that attach to the rear of the PWC. Straps positioned around the PWC tension to the apparatus, ensuring the Bimini Top remains taut, and that the Bimini Top does not angle fore, aft, left or right. The straps are affixed to the PWC using existing mooring points on the PWC or via an add-on kit.

Abstract: A windshield assembly includes a windshield with a starboard side section, a port side section, and a center section between the starboard side section and the port side section. Transition areas of the windshield between the starboard side section and the center section and between the port side section and the center section, respectively, each include a transition radius. A bottom trim member is securable to a deck or frame with a profile including a starboard corner radius and a port corner radius. The bottom trim member supports the windshield and includes a pair of transition members disposed at the transition areas of the windshield. The transition members are configured to adapt the transition areas of the windshield to the deck profile.

Abstract: A canopy assembly for a barrier defined by at least two sides, wherein the canopy assembly including a cover assembly; and a bracket assembly, coupled to the cover assembly, wherein the bracket assembly includes at least a first bracket for coupling the cover assembly to the first side of the barrier and at least a second bracket for coupling the cover assembly to the second side of the barrier, wherein each of the at least first and second brackets have a cavity dimensioned to receive a plurality of differently dimensioned barrier top rails or wall surfaces.