US20160229496A1

US20160229496A1 - Multi-position automated convertible vberth for marine vessels

Info

Publication number: US20160229496A1
Application number: US14/969,784
Authority: US
Inventors: Charles Dean Foss; Mark Eugene Robinson
Original assignee: Boston Whaler Inc
Current assignee: Boston Whaler Inc
Priority date: 2015-02-11
Filing date: 2015-12-15
Publication date: 2016-08-11
Also published as: WO2016130824A1

Abstract

A multiple position automated convertible V-berth system for marine vessels having a pair of independent bunks sections, and guide mechanisms for controlling the physical movement of the bunks from one configuration to another. Included is automatic actuation and electronic controls for activating movement of the bunks from one configuration to another in conjunction with the guide mechanism. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system is convertible between a V-berth configuration and an island bed configuration, eliminates manual operation, and includes automatic deployment and retraction of a table.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/114,960, filed on Feb. 11, 2015.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

N/A

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to cabins for marine vessels and more particularly to an automated and convertible V-berth having multiple positions and features.
2. Description of Related Art
Marine vessel and watercraft designs have included a variety of cabin eating, seating, and sleeping arrangements and designs for the boaters. Specifically, there are many different designs for master and quest berths pleasure crafts, luxury sport boats and yachts. Many berths provide the user with a V-berth as known in the industry, which commonly includes two separated sections of sleep beds, cushions or couches in a “V” configuration, and an open central area for accommodating individuals in the berth. They also typically have a removable table and support arms for use within the open area, along with optional insert(s) to complete a larger bed enclosing the open area, or manually movable sections to create a bed. However, many conventional berths require an operator to manually remove and reposition bed, support, table and/or furniture pieces, as well as store these units. The same is true when reconfiguring the units. This proves to be laborious, cumbersome, inefficient and frustrating, especially when required on a daily basis.
Other conventional designs include power operated devices which control movement of certain pieces or units to aid in different elevations or configurations, however, none address the inventive subject matter herein.
A further problem is that berths do not provide both a fixed island bed and a V-berth within the same interior section of the boat. The fixed island bed provides a superior sleeping quarters that is easy to access from a side; alternatively, the V-berth provides the open space for dining and entertainment.
Although prior designs have sought to improve the features, ergonomics and utility of V-berth and alternative bed/berth configurations and furniture, and may include certain power operated components to assist with movement or operation, these designs have failed to adequately maximize space, convertibility, or automation, and do not address or solve the problems mentioned above. For example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0018451 issued to Sahr, entitled Convertible Seat-Deck Arrangement for a Boat, describes a convertible seat/deck arrangement for a boat, having a generally open U-shaped or V-shaped seating arrangement, for example in a bow rider. In a first conventional configuration the deck arrangement provides horizontal seating around its periphery with an open central area; in a second configuration lower vertical deck elements are pivoted from a generally vertical position to a generally horizontal position which essentially completes an upright continuous horizontal surface for occupants. This reference describes pivotal legs to support the central deck elements in the horizontal position, as well as optional use of linear or rotational powered actuators to move the elements, and a linkage, slot or mechanical guide system to guide the deck elements as well. However, this reference does not describe specifics or particular means of accomplishing these options.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,714,043, issued to Sheppard, entitled Powered V-Berth Platform illustrates a powered V-berth platform in which a cushioned platform fills the “gap” in a V-berth for sleeping, and in its lowered position the platform acts as a chair or stool in the open area. By use of a control switch, a motorized vertical column with a power screw assembly is coupled to the platform such that it can be raised to a horizontal position within the open area of the V-berth. The platform thus fills the cutaway area of the V-berth to provide a continuous sleep area.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,924,798, issued to Lathers, entitled Recreational Boat Dinette/Sleeper relates to a convertible seat/dinette/sleeper system for boats, and U.S. Pat. No. 8,517,466, issued to Wizorek et al., describes a convertible boat seat which transforms a standard bench seat to a lounge/sleeper.
While these designs provide some optional features and units for convertible configurations for berths, dinettes and beds, they require particular structural mechanisms that are relatively limited in purpose and application, and do not address the need for an automated convertible bed of multiple configurations, which also accommodates seating and entertainment needs.
Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a better designed, more efficient multiple position, automated, convertible V-berth for boats which is selectively configured for an island bed or V-berth, provides for and accommodates a seating, dining and entertain configuration, and a system for marine vessels that provides optimum comfort and a variety of positions while maintaining simple operation and a unified appearance.
It is, therefore, to the effective resolution of the aforementioned problems and shortcomings of the prior art that the present invention is directed. However, in view of the marine vessel berth, seating and sleeping systems in existence at the time of the present invention, it was not obvious to those persons of ordinary skill in the pertinent art as to how the identified needs could be fulfilled in an advantageous manner.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides various embodiments of a configurable V-berth seating and sleeping system designed for use on marine vessels. The instant unique designs for a marine vessel relate to automated convertible V-berths, which convert from a common V-berth configuration with a table placed between two (2) separated sofas, seats, or bunk sections, to a larger island bed at the push of a button. Starting in the V-berth configuration, when a switch is pressed the table begins to lower until it reaches a lower limit switch which then triggers the V-berth bunk sections to begin to pivot inwardly until they reach the centerline of the boat. The table is accommodated beneath the bunk sections by way of a slot or opening in the frame of the opposing bunks. Once the bunks are in the center they reveal steps up either side of the island bed configuration. Pressing the switch in the other direction, the bunks begin to separate until they reach an outboard limit switch which then triggers the table to rise until it reaches its highest extent.
The convertible sleep/seating system is automated by simple switch controls and accommodates multiple positions between the V-berth seating and table configurations, and island bed configurations for sleeping or lounging. This system also automatically accommodates selective seating and entertainment configurations aside from the different bed types. It eliminates having to lower or remove tables to convert a berth, and the use of separate cushions and support members fill V-berth open areas. It also eliminates the need to manually move separate bunks together, and also automatically provides an island bed with stepped side-bed access. Finally, and most significantly, it eliminates the need to choose a boat with either a V-berth or an island bed, as both are provided with the instant invention at the selection of the occupants.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a multiple position, automatic convertible V-berth seating, sleeping and dining system.
It is another object of the present invention to accomplish the multiple position, automatic convertible V-berth seating, sleeping and dining system configurations with an operationally efficient and cost effective mechanical and electrical design.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a completely automated convertible berth configuration system which easily converts from a V-berth arrangement to an island bed arrangement and eliminates the need for manual operation or accessory furniture pieces.
Finally, it is an object of the present invention to provide a multiple position, automatic convertible V-berth seating, sleeping and dining system having all of the above features and objects.
In accordance with these and other objects which will become apparent hereinafter, the instant invention will now be described with particular reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of one embodiment of the convertible V-berth system of the present invention in an open V-berth configuration.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of one embodiment of the convertible V-berth system of the present invention in a closed island bed configuration.

FIG. 1C is a perspective view of one embodiment of the convertible V-berth system of the present invention in an intermediate position between the open V-berth configuration and the closed island bed configuration.

FIG. 2A is a top plan view of one embodiment of the convertible V-berth system of the present invention in an open seating configuration.

FIG. 2B is a top plan view of one embodiment of the convertible V-berth system of the present invention in a closed seating configuration.

FIG. 3A is a bottom plan drawing view of one embodiment of the convertible berth system of the present invention in an open V-berth configuration.

FIG. 3B is an exploded partial drawing view taken along line B of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the convertible V-berth system of the present invention in a closed island bed configuration.

FIG. 5A is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of the convertible V-berth system of the present invention in an open seating configuration.

FIG. 5B is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of the convertible V-berth system of the present invention in a closed seating configuration.

FIG. 5C is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the convertible V-berth system of the present invention illustrating an open configuration for seating in conjunction with a central hub providing utility features.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to FIG. 1A, shown is a perspective view of the multiple position automated and convertible V-berth system 10 of the present invention in an opened configuration. The v-berth system includes a left bunk section 12 and a right bunk section 13 which form a V-shaped configuration toward the center hub 11. In some embodiments, the V-berth system is designed within the bow area of the vessel, such that the left and right sections 12 and 13 converge toward the center hub 11. Also shown are bunk section bases 112 and 113 which form the support structure for the respective bunk section 112 and 113. In some embodiments, each bunk section base 112 and 113 includes an elongated slot 19 that is configured to contain retractable table 14 when the system is operated. As such, disposed between the left and right sections 12 and 14 is a retractable table 14. Table 14 is supported by a telescoping support column 15. It can be seen that in this open configuration occupants can be seated upon the bunks 12 and 13 with sufficient leg area above deck 16 and beneath table 14. This configuration is a typical configuration for utilizing the vessel during cruising or entertaining, dining and the like.
FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the convertible berth system 10 in a closed, sleeping position. It can be seen that left and right sections 12 and 13 have automatically moved into position such that they are now aligned with one another in direct contact in the center of the berth area forming a bed. Table 14 is no longer visible, as it has been retracted beneath the left and right sections 12 and 13. In some embodiments, the left and right sections 12 and 13 articulate about central hub 11 to reach the full closed, sleeping position shown. In this position, around the perimeter of the bed can be seen left and right steps 17 and 18 which are now accessible such that one can access the now-formed bed easily from either side, as well as from the front.
FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the V-berth system 10 shown in an intermediate position between the open and closed positions shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. Starting in the open position, the system is activated by way of a remote switch which begins operation by retracting the table 14 downward. In some embodiments, the table 14 retracts to its lowest position such that the table 14 itself is at an elevation matching that of the elongated slot 19 of each bunk section 12 and 13. Once the table 14 reaches its lowest position, a limit switch engages such that the left and right bunk section 12 and 13 begin to move inward by rotating about central hub 11. The slots 19 of the respective bunk sections 12 and 13 are aligned with the table such that they receive at least a portion of the table 14 on either side. Accordingly, the table 14 remains protected and concealed from view once the system 10 reaches the closed position shown in FIG. 1B. When the system is activated again to move from the closed position to the open position, the bunk sections 12 and 13 separate to their widest, open position and then a limit switch is engaged such that the table 14 to moves upward to its tallest position.
FIG. 2A is a top plan view of the open configuration shown in FIG. 1A, and FIG. 2B is a top plan view of the closed configuration shown in FIG. 1B. From here it can be seen how left and right bunk sections 12 and 13 articulate towards each other about central hub 11 to operate from the open position to the closed position. Also, steps 17 and 18 can be seen more clearly, each disposed on either side of the bed formed by left and right bunk sections 12 and 13.
FIG. 3A is a partial bottom plan view of the view shown in FIG. 2A, depicting one embodiment of the mechanism by which left and right bunk sections 12 and 13 operate about central hub 11. In some embodiments, left and right bunk sections 12 and 13 include respective bunk frames 12′ and 13′. Left and right bunk guides 31 and 32 are attached to the respective sides of central hub 11 and provide arcuate action for the bunk sections 12 and 13. Actuators 33 and 34 are attached to the respective bunk sections 12 and 13, and in some embodiments, directly to left and right bunk frames 12′ and 13′. The detail of this engagement is shown in close-up FIG. 3B. When actuated, the actuators lengthen so as to move the respective bunk sections 12 and 13 along the respective bunk guides 31 and 32 in arcuate fashion. In some embodiments, the actuators 33 and 34 comprise electronic linear actuators. In other embodiments, the actuators 33 and 34 can comprise gas or hydraulic struts that are electronically activated by a remote switch. Also shown is table control mechanism 35 which assists the retracting action of the table 14 when the system is activated.
FIG. 5 illustrates the convertible berth system in a closed island bed configuration. The V-berth system 10 pivots together such that left and right bunk sections 12 and 13 form a bed. Also provided in some embodiments are wing cushions 40 and 42 which can pop up from the sides of the respective bunk sections 12 and 13 to complete the island bed with additional shoulder room. In this embodiment, step 17 and 18 become accessible such that an occupant can approach the island bed from either side. Optional lighting can be incorporated within the steps, about the lower section of the island bed, within the sides of the bow area, or the like.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention wherein a plurality of V- berth systems 50, 51 and 12 are provided inside the cabin of a marine vessel. These are illustrated each in an open configuration providing various seating positions and options. FIG. 4B is a top plan view in correlation to FIG. 4A depicting the systems 50, 51, and 52 in closed configuration such that each system provides a bed. FIG. 4C shows one V-berth system 53 consisting of left and right seat sections 55 and 56 in an open configuration about central hub 54. Central hub 54 is, in some embodiments, a utility piece including a cabinet 57, sink 58 and compartments 59.
The automation of the system 10 provides a single step operation of the entire system. With the push of a button, the table 14 lowers and bunk sections converge on the center line of the boat creating an island bed. With a push of the button again the bunks separate and the table rises for a dining configuration. The actuation of the berth allows for a conversion between a dinette and an island bed. When a limit switch or other electronic switch is triggered, the electric actuators move the bunk sections along the curved guides until the section meet. In some embodiments, there is an over current switch that limits the actuator and stops the bunk sections at the center of the boat. When reversed, the bunk sections articulate outboard until they reach an outer limit and then the table 14 telescopes up by means of an electric table control mechanism 35, such as a ram or strut or piston.
It is appreciated and understood that the present invention is designed to be modular for a wide variety of applications on a marine vessel without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, the bunk sections 12 and 13 may comprised a flat planar members for use as a bed when in the closed position. Alternatively, the sections 12 and 13 may be configured as chairs and/or sofas as depicted in other figures, while still being to be closed together to form sleeping or lounging furniture. Surrounding structure may also be provided, such as bulkhead padding shown in the figures or seat backs that enhance versatility and functionality. The materials selected need not be considered limiting, although various combinations of fiberglass, wood, resins, plastics, and the like can be incorporated in the final structure.
The instant invention has been shown and described herein in what is considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made therefrom within the scope of the invention and that obvious modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A multiple position automated convertible V-berth system for marine vessels, comprising:

a pair of bunk sections;

guide means for controlling physical movement of said bunks;

automatic actuation and electronic control means for activating movement of said bunk sections from one configuration to another in conjunction with said guide means;

said multiple position automated convertible V-berth system is convertible between a V-berth configuration and an bed configuration;

wherein in said V-berth configuration, sale pair of bunk sections are spaced apart and separated; and

wherein in said bed configuration said pair of bunk sections are pushed together to form a bed.

2. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system of claim 1, further including a telescoping table disposed between said pair of bunk section.

3. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system of claim 1, wherein said guide means comprises mechanical guides providing for arcuate movement of said bunks.

4. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system of claim 3, wherein said guide means includes electronic linear actuators to impart movement of said bunks.

5. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system of claim 4, wherein said automatic actuation and electronic control means is comprised of electronic switches and control circuits enabling operation of said electronic linear actuators.

6. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system of claim 1, further including a central hub about which said pair of bunk sections articulate.

7. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system of claim 6, wherein said guide means comprise guide members attaching said central hub to each of said bunk sections.

8. A multiple position automated convertible V-berth system for marine vessels, comprising:

a left bunk section and a right bunk section;

said bunk sections attached to and configured to articulate about a central hub;

a retractable table disposed between said bunk sections;

wherein in an open position said left and right bunk sections are spaced apart and separated; and

wherein in said closed position, said left and right bunk sections are brought together to form a bed and said retractable table is retracted downward and stored in said bunk sections.

9. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system for marine vessels of claim 8, wherein said bunk sections articulate by way of guides attaching said bunk sections to said central hub.

10. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system for marine vessels of claim 8, wherein in said closed position, said retractable table is accommodated by an elongated slot of each of said bunk sections.

11. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system for marine vessels of claim 8, wherein said bunk sections and said retractable table are automatically actuated and electronically controlled by way of one or more electronic switches operating one or more actuators.

12. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system for marine vessels of claim 12, wherein said one or more actuators comprise electronic linear actuators, hydraulic struts, rams, pistons, or combinations thereof.