WO2008088290A1

WO2008088290A1 - Dual function modular boat

Info

Publication number: WO2008088290A1
Application number: PCT/SG2007/000012
Authority: WO
Inventors: Aik Leong Ng
Original assignee: Aik Leong Ng
Priority date: 2007-01-15
Filing date: 2007-01-15
Publication date: 2008-07-24

Abstract

The present invention provides a modular boat consisting of a bow module, one or more modules to make up the mid section and a module for the stern. The modular boat comprising a plurality of modules, characterized as Module A, Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E, and Module F. The modular boat is assembled with Module A forming a bow of the modular boat, any one or more of Modules such as Module A. Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F in a number of combinations, forming the mid section and stern sections. After use, the modular boat can be disassembled into individual modules and stacked into each other, for transportation and when stored, said modules can be used as furniture components.

Description

DUAL FUNCTION MODULAR BOAT

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a modular boat which is assembled from two or more modules and when not in use, the modules can be disassembled and re-assembled for use as various components of home furniture.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Watersports have become increasingly popular in recent years, and have increased in variety, particularly those designed for personal use or use by only a few individuals at a time. However all boat owners be it small or medium or large boats face a problem with keeping their boat at a marina or moored to a wharf. Most boat owners and enthusiasts use their boats on weekends, thereby their boats are left idle at a marina or at a wharf.

Unfortunately, boating still remains one of the more exclusive and expensive forms of sporting activity. If a boating enthusiast were to keep a non-motorized boat, such as a simple sailboat or dingy, it is still expensive to purchase and maintain, and usually will require ample storage space.

The cost of keeping an idle boat, at marinas or wharfs which are usually far away from the homes of such boating enthusiasts is a major factor. Keeping the boat at the marina would mean leaving the boat idle and unused and at the same time exposed to the elements. Exposure to the elements would mean higher costs of maintenance, in the longer term.

Those who can monetarily afford to do so will often opt for dry storage of their watercraft at a marina or at a mooring. However, fees for slips, moorings or dry storage are substantial and tend to deter people who would otherwise choose to own their own personal watercraft.

If the owner desire to keep the boats at home, transportation and parking the boat at home is also a problem. Most small boats tend to be cumbersome to transport and usually require the use of a trailer to do so. Boat trailers themselves are costly, and in turn, boat trailers require large areas of parking space, which particularly is lacking in cities. Therefore taking a boat on a trailer and leaving both the trailer and boat at home while reducing the costs of upkeep at the marina, still leaves much to be desired since the boat and trailer are still taking up space and not of any use.

Thus, purchasing a boat is a major investment decision for many people. Even more importantly, once a boat is purchased, the owner of the boat has to deal with keeping the boat at a suitable place.

Modular boats could be a solution to the problems of keeping a boat at a marina. Such modular boats could be disassembled when not in use and assembled when it is to be put out to the sea.

Modular boats are known in the art. There are many examples of modular boats in prior art. An example is U S Patent No. 5 349 918 which proposes a modular twin hull boat for two persons which can be assembled and disassembled.

US Patent No. 6 325 014 similarly proposes a modular boat hull consisting of a bow and stern sections and at least one centre section. The sections connected by use of male and female locking portions which interlock the sections.

US Patent No. 6 619 224 describes a modular vessel with a variable hull and a plurality of boat forming modules with novel mechanism for sealing modular components.

US Patent No. 5,301,629 proposes a modular boat which can be disassembled into two or more sections for storage and which are stackable one on the other, for transportation and storage.

However, in these and other prior art documents, no one has proposed making use of the disassembled components for other functions. The components of the modular boats of the prior art when disassembled, are merely stored and do not serve any other use. The inventor has considered the problems of keeping a boat which when kept, serves no function and takes up space. What is desirable is a modular boat which can be disassembled and assembled easily to facilitate transportation and storage in a house. However, what is more desirable is if the modules when disassembled, the modules can be converted to other uses, thereby ensuring full utilization of a boat, both on water and off water. In this manner, the cost of irwestment in a boat could be readily justified.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a modular boat consisting of a bow module, one or more modules to make up the mid section and a module for the stern.

A first object of the invention is a modular boat comprising a plurality of modules, characterized as:-

Module A,

Module B,

Module C, Module D,

Module E, and

Module F

wherein said modules are assembled, with Module A forming a bow of the modular boat, any one or more of Module A. Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and

Module F forming the mid section and stern sections, the modules being assembled together such that the front of a module is joined to a back of another module, both modules joined together with connecting means to fopim a modular boat for recreational use and after which, said modular boat can be disassembled into individual modules for transportation and when stored, said modules can be used as furniture components.

Preferably, the modules for a modular boat has the following lengths, sizes and dimensions, identified as :- Module A - 1760 mm

Module B - 1830 mm

Module C - 1900 mm

Module D - 1900 mm Module E - 1800 mm

Module F - 1760 mm

Preferably, the lengths, sizes and dimensions, of Module A, Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F are correspondingly scaled so that these can be used as furniture components of different sizes.

Preferably, Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F has hulls which are elongate and U shaped trough in cross section.

Preferably, Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F has hulls which are elongate and ^u shaped trough in cross section.

Preferably, Module A, Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F has hulls with lights on the exterior and the interior of the hulls.

Preferably, the back face of Module A, the front and back faces of Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F has hulls with a plurality of holes.

Preferably, Module A, Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F has hulls with slots on the inner sides of the hulls.

Advantageously, Module A, Module B and Module C can be used as book shelves.

Advantageously, Module A can be stacked onto Module B and Module B stacked onto Module C to form a dining table or a coffee table with addition of a table top. Advantageouεsly, Module F can be stacked onto Module E and Module E stacked onto Module D to form a cabinet or a King Size Bed or A Queen Size Bed or beds of other sizes, depending on the sizes of the Modules.

Preferably, tfee modular boat has a plurality of modules which can be stacked one on top of the? other by a user when transported from the user's home to the sea or water, said modules assembled together, for use and thereafter disassembled after use, and stacked one on top of the other for transportation back to the user's home.

Preferably, tFhe modular boat can be assembled by using a combination of a plurality of rroodules, to form a bow, a mid section and a stern section.

Preferably, thie modular boat has a bow formed from Module A.

Preferably, fee modular boat has a mid section formed from a combination of any one or more Mocfiule B, Module C or Module D or Module E or Module F.

Preferably, the modular boat has a stern section formed from a combination of any one or more modules of Module A, Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E or Module F.

Preferably, the back of a module can be joined to the front of the next module by simple connection means.

Alternatively_^ the back of a module can be joined to the front of the next module by slot in coannection means with rollers wherein the front of one module is slotted into the bacfe of the adjoining module and each module has rollers to facilitate the slotting in together of modules.

Alternatively,, the back of a module can be joined to the front of the next module by slot in connection means with a linear rubber grip wherein the front of one module is slfotted into the back of the adjoining module and each module has linear rubber grips ϊo facilitate the slotting together of modules. Preferably, the simple connection means allows the back of a hull of the front module and the front of the back module to be joined through use of a plurality of corresponding holes so that when the back of the module is joined to the front of a hull of the adjoining module, said holes being brought into alignment and a bolt is inserted through each hole, and the bolt tightened with a nut.

Preferably, the simple connection means allows a rubber washer to be inserted between the back of a hull of the front module and the front of the back module to be joined, said rubber washer also having a plurality of holes corresponding to the holes in the back of the hull of the front module and in the front of the hull of the back module.

Alternatively, said rubber washer is inserted between each hole in the back of the hull of the front module and each hole in the front of the hull of the back module to be joined.

Preferably, the slot in connection means with rollers allows the back of a hull of the front module and the front of the hull of the back module to be joined using a plurality of corresponding holes so that when the back of the hull of the front module is joined to the front of a hull of the adjoining module, said holes being brought into alignment and a bolt is inserted through each hole, and the bolt tightened with a nut and further secured by magnets around the bolt, if necessary.

Advantageously the slot in connection means with rollers further allows the back of a module to be joined to the front of the next module by slot in connection means with rollers wherein the front of one module is slotted into the back of the adjoining module and the back of the adjoining module and front of the adjoining module have rollers to facilitate the slotting in together of modules.

Preferably the slot in connection means with a linear rubber grip allows the back of the hull of the front module and the front of the hull of the back module to be joined using a plurality of corresponding holes so that when the back of the hull of the front module is joined to the front of a hull of the adjoining module, said holes being brought into alignment and a bolt is inserted through each hole, and the bolt tightened with a nut and further secured by magnets around the bolt, if necessary.

Advantageously the slot in connection means wtth a linear rubber grip allows the back of a module to be joined to the front of the next module by slot in connection means with a linear rubber grip wherein the front of one module is slotted into the back of the adjoining module and each module has linear rubber grips to facilitate the slotting in together of modules.

Preferably, a rubber washer is additionally inserted between the back of a hull of the front module and the front of the back module to be joined, said rubber washer having a plurality of holes corresponding to the holes in the back of the hull of the front module and in the front of the hull of the back module.

Alternatively, a rubber washer is inserted between each hole in the back of a hull of the front module and each hole in the front of the back module to be joined.

Preferably, the modular boat can be assembled with Module A forming a bow of the modular boat, any one or more of Module A. Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F forming the mid section and stem sections, wherein an outboard motor can be attached to the stern.

Advantageously, the modular boat can be assembled with Module A forming a bow of the modular boat, any one or more Modules of Module A. Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F forming the mid section and stern sections, wherein the sides of the modular boat so formed can be attached with one or more outboard motors.

Advantageously, one or more of the modules of Module A. Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F can be purchased and assembled to form the modular boat, with Module A forming a bow of the modular boat, any one or more of Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F forming the mid section and stern sections and wherein one or more modules of Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F can be left out if a smaller modular boat is desired, to meet specific requirements of the owner.

Preferably, the modular boat can be assembled and used in the seas, on rivers and lakes for recreational purpose or used in the seas, on rivers and lakes by police or military and disassembled after such usage, and stored on land and used as furniture components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 A and 1 B are top view and side view respectively, of a modular boat according to this invention, which uses a configuration of combinations of six different types of modules, identified and referred herein as Module Type A, Module Type B, Module Type C, Module Type D, Module Type E and Module Type F.

Fig. 2 A and 2 B shows two arrangements of the three modules, including the bow Module Type A (hereinafter referred to as Module A ) together with Module type B (hereinafter referred to as Module B') and Module type C (hereinafter referred to as Module C), to make furniture components.

Fig. 3A and 3 B shows two arrangements of the another three modules - Module Type D (hereinafter referred to as Module D), Module Type E (hereinafter referred to as Module E) and Module Type F (hereinafter referred to as Module F), to make furniture components.

FIG. 4 A and 4 B are a top view and side view of one configuration of a modular boat of the invention, assembled using five modules, Module A, Module B, Module C, Module D and Module E.

FIG. 5 A and 5 B are side view and cross section view of another configuration of a modular boat of the invention, assembled with four modules, Module A, Module B, Module C and Module D. FIG. 6 A and 6 B are top view and cross section side view of another configuration of a modular boat of this invention assembled with three modules, Module A, Module B and Module C.

FIG. 7 A and 7 B are top view and cross section side view of yet another configuration of a modular boat of this invention, with two modules, Module A and Module B, being the configuration for the smallest modular boat.

FIG. 8 A and 8 B are top view and cross section side view of another configuration of a modular boat of this invention, with two modules, Module A and Module A, being another combination of the smallest modular boat.

FIG. 9 A and 9 B are top view and cross section side view of another configuration of a modular boat of this invention, with another combination of four modules, using two types of Modules, Module A and Module B in a combination of Module A, Module B, Module B and Module A.

FIG. 10 A and 10 B are top view and cross section side view of another configuration of a modular boat of this invention with another combination of six modules using three types of modules, Module A, Module B and Module C in a combination of Module A, Module B, Module C, Module C, Module B and Module A.

FIG. 11 A and 11 B are top view and cross section side view of another configuration of a modular boat of this invention with a combination using many modules, with the mid section consisting of a plurality of modules of Module D.

FIG. 12 A and 12 B are top view and cross section side view of another configuration of a modular boat of this invention with another combination using many modules, with the mid section consisting of a plurality of modules of one type, being Module F.

FIG. 13 A and 13 B are top view and cross section side view of another configuration of a modular boat of this invention with a combination using many modules, with the mid section consisting of a plurality of modules of one type, being Module E. FIG. 14 A and 14 B are top view and cross section side view of another configuration of a modular boat of this invention, with a combination using many modules, with the end section consisting of a plurality of modules of one type, being Module F.

FIG. 15 A and 15 B are top view and cross section side view of another configuration of a modular boat of this invention with a combination using many modules, with the end section consisting of a plurality of modules of one type, in this instance Module E.

FIG. 16 A and 16 B are top view and cross section side view of another configuration of a modular boat of this invention with another combination using many modules, with the end section consisting of a plurality of modules of one type, being Module D.

FIG. 17 A and 17 B are top view and cross section side view of another configuration of a modular boat of this invention with a combination using many modules, with the mid section and end section consisting of a plurality of modules of one type, being Module B.

FIG. 18 A and 18 B are top view and cross section side view of another configuration of a modular boat of this invention with a combination using many modules, with the mid section consisting of a plurality of modules of two types, being Module B and C and the end section consisting of a plurality of modules of another type, Module F.

FIG. 19 A and 19 B are top view and cross section side view of another configuration of a modular boat of this invention, with the mid section consisting of Module B and Module C and the end section consisting of Module B and Module C.

Fig. 2OA, Fig 2OB and Fig 2OC illustrates a first method of connection between each module.

Fig 21A shows a perspective view of how two modules are connected using the first method of connection between two modules and Fig 21 B shows a cross section of a rubber washer used in the first method of connection. Fig. 22A, Fig. 22B and Fig 22C shows a first option for a second method of the connection. The first option for the second method of connection (referred to as " Slot In connection with rollers ") proposes slotting in of one Module into another. In Fig 22A, Fig. 22B and Fig. 22C, the Slot-in Connection with rollers is used to connect Module D with Module E and Module E with Module F.

Fig. 23A, Fig 23B and Fig. 23C shows a second option for a second method of the Slot In Connection (referred to as " Slot In Connection with grips"). This second option proposes slotting in of one Module into another with rubber grips to facilitate the slotting process. The second option of Slot In connection with grips is for connecting Modules such as Module D, Module E and Module F.

Fig. 24 shows views of a typical perspective view of a module.

Fig. 25A shows an external side view of a typical modular boat accessorized with side lights (interior and exterior).

Fig. 25B shows a cross section view of the side of a typical modular boat accessorized with side lights (interior and exterior).

Fig. 26 A and Fig. 26B shows top view and cross section view of a configuration of modular boat of the invention, proposed for use by the police or military, assembled with four modules, Module A, Module B, Module C and Module D.

Fig. 27 shows a top view of another configuration of a modular boat for use by the police or military.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The invention will be better understood by way of the following non-limiting detailed description of a few configurations of modular boats with reference to the drawings.

The invention of the present application is a modular boat which consists of several interconnectable modules. The invention proposes the use of six types of modules, which have been labeled and referred herein as Module A, Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F.

The invention thereby enables the construction of boats or aquatic vehicles of different lengths using a combination of the standard modules. Besides the use of such modular boats for recreation, the modular boat of this invention can be used as a rescue boat or for military purposes.

In the subsequent description, the use of such a modular boat for recreation purpose is illustrated.

A boat owner may select and purchase any number of modules to make the modular boat. The modular boat comprises a module being the aft section, one or more modules to make the mid section and the stern section. Depending on the number of modules connected, the boat would be of varying length.

The modules when not in used, can be disassembled and used as components for furniture.

By way of further illustration, the lengths of the various modules are:

Module A - 1760 mm (which is also the bow module)

Module B - 1830 mm

Module C - 1900 mm Module D - 1900 mm

Module E - 1800 mm

Module F - 1760 mm

The dimensions of Module D, Module E and Module F would allow the modules to be converted to use as Queen Size Bed. The dimensions of Module D, Module E and Module F can be correspondingly re-sized to change the Modules to be converted to use as King Size Bed or beds of other sizes. The modular boat consists of three basic sections, namely an bow section, a mid section and a stern section. Various types of modules can be connected in a number of combinations. However, to enable the modules to be joined together according to the connection proposed in this invention, the modules are of varying widths. The module with the smallest width is Module A, which can only be fitted as the bow section. The front of Module B is of the same width as the back of Module A. However, the back of Module B is wider and matches the width of the front of Module C. The back of Module C is of the same width as the front of Module D. The back of Module D is of the same width as its front. From the description, it can be seen that the widths of the backs of Module A, Module B and Module C are slightly larger than their fronts.

Module D, Module E and Module F are different from Module A, Module B and Module C in that their fronts and backs are of the same width.

It should also be noted that the width of the back of Module A and the width of the front and back of Module F are the same.

It should also be noted that the width of Module B and the width of Module E are the same.

It should be noted that the width of Module C and the width of Module D are also the same.

By way of example, the connection procedure for a configuration consisting of six modules is given herein, by referring to Fig 1 A and Fig 1 B. The bow consists of Module A. Module B is then connected to Module A. Module C is then connected to Module B. The mid section is then formed by connecting Module D to Module C . Module E is then connected to the back of Module D and to the front of Module F.

Since the front of Module B is approximately as wide as the width of the back of Module A , Module A can be joined to Module B. Since the front of Module C is approximately as wide as the width of the back of Module B, Module B can likewise be joined to Module C. Since the front of Module D is approximately as wide as the width of the back of Module C, Module C can be joined to Module D.

It must be noted that since the front of Module B is approximately as wide as the width of the back of Module A, Module A can accommodate Module B. Likewise, since the front of Module type C is approximately as wide as the width of the back of Module B₁ Module B when in an inverted position, can fit into Module C. It is possible for Module C to hold Module B and Module B can, in turn, hold Module A.

By use of such configurations, a combination of Module A can be stored within Module B which then is stored within Module C. By adding a table top, the combination of Module C, Module B and Module A can serve as a dining table. It is also possible to form a coffee table with smaller sized Module A, Module B and

Module C. The use of the Modules when disassembled, as book shelves or dining table or coffee table are shown in Fig. 2A and Fig. 2 B respectively.

The use of the Modules when disassembled, as cabinets or king-sized or queen sized beds are shown in Fig. 3A and Fig. 3 B respectively.

By joining various types of Modules, many configurations of boats of different lengths can be achieved as shown in Fig. 4 A and 4 B ail the way to Fig. 19 A and Fig 19 B.

Since the front and back of Module D are of the same width, it is possible to connect a plurality of Module D to make a long boat, as shown in Fig11 A and Fig 11 B. In this combination, the bow consists of Module A, the front of the mid section consists of Module B, Module C followed by a plurality of Module D, and with Module C and Module B forming the back of the mid section and the stern consisting of Module A.

Another variation of a long boat is by connecting a plurality of Module F to form a long mid section, as shown in Fig. 12 A and Fig 12 B. In this combination, the bow and stern each uses Module A, while the entire mid section consists of a plurality of Module F. Yet another variation is by adding a plurality of Module type ' E ' to form a long mid section, as shown in Fig. 13 A and Fig 13 B. In this combination, the bow and stern each uses Module A, while the entire mid section consists of a plurality of Module E, both the front and back of the mid section using Module B to connect the entire mid section to the bow and stern.

However, boats of very short lengths could also be configured as in Fig. 7A and 7 B which shows a boat consisting of Module A connected to Module B. A boat of two modules could also be achieved by joining Module A to another Module A, as shown in Fig. 8A and Fig. 8 B.

It should be noted that for all combinations and configurations using the Modules of this invention, the bow can only be formed by using Module A.

It should be noted that Module C and Module D are of the same length and height.

The mid section can consists of one or more mid section modules of varying dimensions, which can be joined together at each end and connected. Modules which can be used to form the mid section can be any Module other than Module A, i.e. Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F.

The stern consists of any Module other than Module A. Modules which can be used to form the stern can be Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F.

The stern section can adapted to have an outboard motor fitted to the back of that Module. The combinations of a bow module, one or more modules to make the mid section and a stern module would determine the length of the modular boat, as described herein and also as illustrated by the drawings. However, it should be noted that the illustrations and description of the various combinations are not exhaustive.

A description of the type of connection between modules is now given. Firstly, there are two methods of joining the modules:-

a. Simple connection b. Slot-In connection using rubber rollers or wheels to facilitate the slotting-in; Or c. Slot-in connection using rubber grips to facilitate the slotting-in

Simple Connection

A description of how the simple connection is carried out is by reference to Fig. 2OA , Fig 2OB and Fig 2OC. A portion of a modular boat is shown with Fig 2OA showing a top view of three Modules, Module D connected to Module E which is connected to Module F. Fig 2OB shows a cross section side view of Module D connected to Module E which is connected to Module F. A blown up view of the simple connection used between Modules D and E (portion ' Y ' of Fig. 20B) is shown in Fig. 20 C. Fig. 2OC shows a cross section side view of the back of Module D and front of Module E before connection of both Modules. Fig. 20 D shows a cross section side view of the back of Module D and front of Module E after the simple connection has been effected.

To join Module D to Module E, the back of Module D is pushed to meet with the front of Module Type E. A rubber washer piece 11 is slipped between the back of Module D and the front of Module E. Both Modules have a series of holes 21 along the front and back of the hull 20 of each module for insertion of bolts 12. When both front of Module D and back of Module E are placed together, with the rubber washer 11 in between, bolts 12 are inserted through the series of holes 21 in the front of the hull 20 of Module D and corresponding series of holes 21 in the back of the hull 20 of Module E, tightened with a corresponding nut 13 at the other end of the bolt 12 In this manner, the simple connection between Module D and E is made. Likewise, Module E and Module F are joined in same manner.

Fig. 21 A shows a perspective view of the back of one module joined to the front of another module, with the rubber washer 11 shown in between. The series of holes 21 along the back of the hull 20 of one Module and a corresponding series of holes 21 along the front of the hull 20 of the adjoining module is shown. The rubber washer 11 would likewise have a series of holes 21 with corresponding positions as the series of holes 21 in the Modules to be joined. Fig 21 B shows a cross section of a rubber washer 11 used in the first method of connection, being refeirred to as simple connection.

The rubber washer 11 need not be a single piece with a plurality of holes 21. It is possible that smaffer and different pieces of rubber washers 11 made to fit each of the plurality of holes 21 in the hull 20.

The simple connection means can be used to join any Module to any other module.

Slot In Method of connection

For slot-in method of connection, only modules which have narrower fronts and modules with wider backs can use this method. Therefore this slot-in method can only be used for ModJule D, Module E and Module F. These modules are suitable for this method of connection because it allows the front of a smaller and narrower module (Module E) to be accepted by the back of a bigger and wider module (Module D).

As stated earlier, there are two options for the Slot-In connection. The first option proposes the use of rubber rollers or wheels 14 to facilitate the slotting-in.

The second option proposes the use of rubber grips 16 to facilitate the slotting-in.

A description of the first option for slot-in method of connection using rubber rollers or rubber wheels 14 is now described.

Taking Fig. 22A and Fig 22B as exemplary illustration of the first option of the slot-in method using rollers 14, a portion of a modular boat is shown. Fig 22A showing a top view and Fig 22B showing a cross section side view of three Modules, Module D, Module E and Module. F being connected. A blown up view of the type of joint used in the slot-in connection is shown Fig. 22 C (side view of the joint before the two modules are connected) and Fig. 22 D (cross section side view of the joint after the two modules are connected). Both Fig. 22C and Fig 22D shows a blown up portion ' X ' of the connection between Module D and Module E, the portion X being shown in Fig. 22B.

Fig. 22C and Fig 22D shows in detail how the slot in connection between Module D and Module E is made.

To join Module D to Module E, the front of Module E is pushed to the back of Module D. As pointed out earlier, the back of Module D is wider than the front of Module E. Hence when the front of Module E is pushed into the back of Module E, the hull 20 of Module E will slide over the hull 20 of Module D. To make it easier for both modules to be pushed into each other, each end of the hull 20 of each modules have tiny wheels 14 to enable smooth connection. To strengthen the connection, a rubber washer 11 is inserted between the ends of both modules and a bolt 12 inserted through the connection. If necessary, a magnet 15 can also placed on each side of the bolt 12, the magnets 15 having opposing poles, so that the two magnets 15 facing each other are strongly attracted to each other, keeping the bolt 12 in place, securing the connection between the two modules.

The rubber washer 11 need not be a single piece with a plurality of holes 21. It is possible that smaller pieces of rubber washers 11 be used, each smaller rubber washer 11 used to fit each of the plurality of holes 21 in the hull 20.

A description of the second option for slot-in method of connection using rubber grips 16 is now described.

Fig. 23A - Fig 23D is an exemplary illustration of the second option for the slot-in method using rubber grips 16. Fig 23A showing a top view of the three Modules, Module D, Module E and Module F being connected. A blown up view of the type of joint used in the second option of slot-in connection is shown Fig. 23C (side view of the joint before the two modules are connected) and Fig. 23D (cross section side view of the joint after the two modules are connected). Fig. 23C and Fig 23D shows in detail how the slot in connection using rubber grips 16 is made between Module D and Module E. To join Module D to Module E, the front of Module E is pushed to the back of Module D. As pointed out earlier, the back of Module D is wider than the front of Module E. Hence when the front of Module E is pushed into the back of Module D, the hulls 20 of each module will interlock. To make it easier for both modules to be pushed into each other, the ends of the hulls 20 of each module have a length of flexible rubber grip 16 laid width wise across the end of each module, which enable easier joining of modules. To strengthen the connection, a rubber washer 1 1 is inserted between the ends of both modules and bolts 12 inserted through the connection. If necessary, a magnet 15 can be placed on each side of the bolt 12, the magnets 15 having opposing poles, so that the two magnets 15 are strongly attracted to each other, keeping the bolts 12 in place, securing the connection between the two modules.

The rubber washer 11 need not be a single piece with a plurality of holes 21. It is possible smaller pieces of rubber washers 11 be used, each smaller rubber washer 1 1 used to fit each of the plurality of holes 21 in the hull 20.

A description of how the modular boat consisting of six modules is assembled and disassembled is now given by reference to Fig 1 A and 1 B. The modular boat consist of six modules namely Module A, Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F. The method of connection is by way of simple connection.

Module A is always selected and used as the bow. The front end of Module B is then connected to the back end of Module A. A washer is first slipped between the back end of Module A and the front of Module B. Both Modules have a series of holes along the front of the hull 20 of Module B and along the back of the hull 20 of Module A. The series of holes 21 at the back of the hull 20 of Module A and a series of holes 21 along the front of the hull 20 of Module B correspond in position. When the back of Module A is joined to the front of Module B, the rubber washer 11 is then firmly wedged in between. Bolts 12 are then inserted through the holes 21 in Module A and then through the corresponding holes 21 in Module B. Nuts 13 are then used to tighten the bolts 12 holding Module A and Module B together. In same manner, the back of Module B is then connected to the front end of Module C. A rubber washer 11 is first slipped between the back end of Module B and the front of Module C. Both Modules have a series of holes 21 along the front of the hull 20 and the back of the hull 20. In this case, there is a series of holes 21 at the back of the hull 20 of Module B and a series of corresponding holes 21 positioned at the front of the hull 20 of Module C. When the back of Module B is pushed into the front of Module C, the rubber washer 11 is then firmly wedged in between. Bolts 12 are then inserted through the holes 21 in Module B and then through the corresponding holes 21 in Module C. Nuts 13 are then used to tightened the bolts 12 holding Module B and Module C together.

The same method of connecting Module C and Module D, Module D and Module E and then Module E with Module F is adopted. The end result is a modular boat consisting of Module A, Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F. An outboard motor can be installed to the back end of Module F.

After use, the modular boat can be disassembled. The nuts 13 on all the bolts 12 between the front of one Module and the back of the other Module are loosened, and then removed. The rubber washer 11 is then removed. The Modules can then be disassembled and stacked before these modules are transported to the home of the owner. In this example, Module A is stacked into Module B, which is then stacked into Module C. Module F is then stacked into Module E which is then stacked into Module D.

Upon arrival at the home of the owner, the six section modular boat can be disassembled and converted to furniture components, book shelves. Fig. 2 shows the arrangement of the three modules, including the bow Module A together with Modules B and Module C . The bottom of each of these modules has a means for attachment to the wall. All three modules (upon disassembly) are lined against the wall and place next to each other, in the manner " A", "B" and " C". Bow Module A is attached to the wall, for stability. Module B is then turned over and likewise attached to the wall. Module C is then arranged next to Module B. In this manner, all three modules can upon disassembly, be used as furniture components, which in this embodiment are shelves. Since Module A is dimensioned to fit into Module B and Module B is dimensioned to fit into Module C, Bow Module A can be fitted into Module B which are then fitted into Module C, all three modules can be also be adapted for use as a dinner table or coffee table. The usage of the three modules as furniture components, in this embodiment as coffee table (in Fig. 2A) or dining table as shown in Fig. 2B.

The last three modules, Module D, Module E and Module F in this first embodiment can likewise be disassembled and converted to furniture components. Fig. 3A shows the arrangement of the last three modules. The bottom of each of the modules also has a means for attachment to the wall. All three modules are lined against the wall next to each other, in the manner " D", " E " and " F ". Module D has attachment means for it to be attached to the wall, for stability. Module E is likewise attached to the wall. Module F is then arranged next to Module E and attached to the wall. In this manner, all three modules can upon disassembly, be used as furniture components, which in this embodiment are cabinets. Accessories such as cabinet doors can be added. Alternatively, the cabinets can remain opened, without any doors and still function as cabinets.

The inner side walls of each module can have grooves to allow for slotting of shelves, as shown in Fig. 24.

Since Module F is dimensioned to fit into Module E and Module E is dimensioned to fit into Module D, Module F can be fitted into Module E which are then fitted into Module D. In a different configuration, all three modules form a bed. The attachment means are so spaced so that if all three modules are fitted into each other, the attachment means lie on top of each other. In this manner, the attachment means serve to stablise the modules when used as a bed. Depending on the dimensions of the mid section modules, the bed can be a King sized or Queen sized bed or beds of other sizes. The usage of the last three modules as furniture components, in this embodiment as king sized or queen sized bed or beds of other sizes is shown in Fig. 3B

The advantage of this invention unlike the disassembled boats of the prior art is that the modules can be put to use as furniture components in the home during non-sailing use. The use of the modules as furniture components would ensure the disassembled components are not merely stored away from the sea or river. In this manner, a substantially long boat can be disassembled and put to alternative uses, thereby offering functionality with purpose during non-use.

If the owner of the modular boat wishes to use the boat, the owner would have to change use of the modules as furniture components in the house and get these ready for transport and assembly into the modular boat. Since the modules are dimensioned to fit into each other, the sections can be stacked onto each other, and transported to the seaside, for assembly. Likewise, upon completion of the boating, the entire modular boat could be disassembled and transported from the seaside, to the home of the owner, and readily converted to furniture components.

Construction of Modular boat using^' different configuration of Modules

FIG. 4 A and 4 B are a top view and side view of a modular boat with five modules constructed under this invention. In the variation, the modular boat is configured of five modules, consisting of a bow module A, connected to Module B, Module C, Module D and Module E . In this variation, the last module, Module E has an outboard motor attached at its end. ^•

FIG. 5 A and 5 B are side view and cross section view, length wise, of a modular boat with four modules constructed under the invention. In the variation, the modular boat consists of four modules, consisting of a bow module A connected to Module B, Module C and Module D. In this variation, the last module Module D has an outboard motor attached at its end.

Different modular boats can therefore be fitted using different Module types. The hulls 20 of the modules can be fitted with lights, for example on the exterior side of the hull 20 and interior of the hulls 20. The exterior lights 22 are used at night to attract the sea life surrounding the modular boat. The interior lights 23 can be switched on when the modular boat is on the water or when used as furniture components. The cross section view length wise similarly show the position of the lights, from the interior of the module. FIG. 6 A and 6 B are top view and cross section side view of a modular boat with three modules constructed under this invention. In this variation, the modular boat consists of only three modules, namely a bow Module A connected to Module B and Module C.

The smallest conceivable modular boat made under this invention consists of two modules, as shown in Fig. 7 A and 7 B. The smallest modular boat can consists of only a bow Module A connected to Module B. Alternatively, it can consist of Module A connected to another Module A as shown in Fig. 8A and 8B.

Due to the modular nature, the modular boat can also be constructed with a number of modules, fitted together in many configurations.

One configuration is shown in Fig. 10 A and 10 B. The modular boat consists of Module A, Module B, Module C joined to Module C, Module B and Module A.

A longer configuration can be obtained by joining Module A, Module B, Module C joined to a number of Module D before having as its stern, Module C, Module B and Module A. This is shown in Fig. 11 A and 11 B.

Another long configuration can be obtained by joining Module A at each end to a number of Module F. This is shown in Fig. 12 A and 12 B.

Where the bow and stem portion consists of a number of modules of increasing size such as Module C connected to Module B connected to Module A', but the mid section consists of one Module type such as Module F, as in the case of Fig. 12 A and 12 B, it is envisaged both methods of joining be used. In the example of a modular boat as shown in Fig 12A and 12 B, the bow and stern sections consisting of Module A, Module B, and Module C can be connected by using the Simple Connection Method. The mid-section consisting of a number of Module F can be connected together using the simple connection method.

Another long configuration can be obtained by joining Module A to a number of Module F. This is shown in Fig. 14 A and 14 B. Another possible configuration can be obtained by joining a number of Module E to form the mid section and stern section with the bow section constructed using Module A and Module B. This is shown in Fig. 15A and 15 B.

It can be seen that the invention can be used to create a modular boat of different length, to fit the requirements of each individual boat owner. It is also possible for a boat owner to start with a small investment in the modular boat, say, purchasing Module A (bow module) and Modules B and C, as shown in Fig. 6A and 6B. Over time, the boat owner might desire to have a bigger boat, to accommodate one or two more persons in his modular boat. The boat owner can add say two modules of Module D and Module E to his three module boat, thereby increasing the boat to five modules, consisting of Module A (bow module), Modules B, C, D and E, getting a modular boat as shown in Fig. 4 A and Fig 4 B.

The owner of the modular boat consisting of five modules may however choose to go to sea with just four Modules - Module A, Module B, Module C and Module D and leave behind Module E. Alternatively, he may choose to go out to sea with a combination of Module A and Module B. Therefore the invention offers a boat owner flexibility in configuring the length and correspondingly the size of the modular boat, even with existing modules.

Having described the principle of assembly and use of the modules to make a modular boat of different lengths, a description of a module is now given.

Fig. 24 is a perspective view of a typical module. A typical module has a hull 20 in the form of an elongate trough with sides, all round. The shape of the hull 20 in cross section could also be U shaped or with straight sides and a flat bottom, being ^u shaped. Each module therefore has an opening opposite the bottom hull 20 of the module. The front and back of the hull 20 of each module has a plurality of holes 21 for insertion of the connecting bolts 12. The holes 21 are positioned such that the holes 21 on the front of the hull 20 corresponds to the holes 21 on the back of the hull 20 of the adjoining module. It should be pointed out that only the bow module (Module ' A' ) does not have an opening on the top, this module being closed on all sides, including top and bottom.

Fig. 25A shows an external side view of a typical modular boat accessorized with side lights.

Fig. 25B shows a cross section view of the side of a typical modular boat accessorized with side lights.

Such side lights on the exterior serve two purposes - for night fishing, to attract sea creatures such as shrimps. When disassembled, and used as cabinets, such lights enhances the functionality of the cabinets.

Such side lights on the interior similarly has two purposes - for use at night when out on the waters or when disassembled, and used as cabinets, such lights enhances the functionality of the cabinets.

The modular boat when assembled can also be equipped with other accessories such as navigational aids e.g. GPRS, navigational lights and even a canvas roof.

Although the invention had been described by referring to boats, the invention can be readily adapted for other floating vessels used in lakes and rivers. Its purposes can range from recreational use to police and military use. In Fig. 26 A and Fig. 26B are shown respectively the top view and cross section view of a configuration of modular boat of the invention, proposed for use by the police or military, assembled with all six modules, Module A, Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F.

Fig. 27 shows a top view of another configuration of a modular boat for use by the police or military. Attached to the stern and sides are outboard motors.

While many configurations of the modular boat of the invention have been described, it should be apparent, however, that various modifications, rearrangements, substitutions alterations and adaptations to those embodiments may occur to persons skilled in the art with the attainment of some or all of the advantages of the present invention. Accordingly, it should be clearly understood that the present invention is not intended to be limited by the particular features and structures hereinbefore described and depicted in the accompanying drawings. It is therefore intended to cover all such modifications, alterations and adaptations without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECT OF THE INVENTION

A modular boat of this invention which consists of several interconnectable modules enables the construction of boats or aquatic vehicles of different lengths from standard modules. A boat owner may select and purchase any number of modules to make the modular boat. Depending on the number of modules connected, the boat would be of varying length.

The invention also offers the boat owner the option of having a modular boat of varying length by not joining all Modules, choosing to have a smaller (and shorter modular boat) to take fewer persons and a bigger (and longer modular boat) to take more persons.

The modular boat when not in used, can be disassembled and transported back to the home of the owner and used as components for furniture. In this manner, storage and maintenance costs of the boat at a marina is avoided. It also offer the advantage of being used on land, as furniture components, thereby avoiding having to park a boat outside a house, taking up space.

Claims

1. A modular boat comprising a plurality of modules, characterized as:-

Module A,

Module B,

Module C,

Module D,

Module E, and Module F

wherein said modules are assembled, with Module A forming a bow of the modular boat, any one or more of Module A. Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F forming the mid section and stem sections, the modules being assembled together such that the front of a module is joined to a back of another module, both modules joined together with connecting means to form a modular boat for recreational use and after which, said modular boat can be disassembled into individual modules and stacked into one another, for transportation and when stored, said modules can be used as furniture components.

2. The modules for a modular boat as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein the lengths, sizes and dimensions, are identified as :-

Module A - 1760 mm Module B - 1830 mm

Module C - 1900 mm

Module D - 1900 mm

Module E - 1800 mm

Module F - 1760 mm

3. The modules for a modular boat as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein the lengths, sizes and dimensions, of Module A, B, C, D, E and F are correspondingly scaled so that these can be used as furniture components of different sizes.

4. The modules for a modular boat as claimed in any one of the preceding Claims, wherein Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F has hulls which are elongate and U shaped trough in cross section.

5. The modules for a modular boat as claimed in any one of the preceding Claims, wherein Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F has hulls which are elongate and u shaped trough in cross section.

6. The modules for a modular boat as claimed in any one of the preceding Claims, wherein Module A, Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F has hulls with lights on the exterior and the interior of the hulls.

7. The modules for a modular boat as claimed in any one of the preceding Claims, wherein the back face of Module A, the front and back faces of Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F has hulls with a plurality of holes.

8. The modules for a modular boat as claimed in any one of the preceding Claims, wherein Module A, Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F has hulls^°with slots on the inner sides of the hulls.

9. A modular boat as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein Module A, Module B and Module C can be used as book shelves.

10. A modular boat as claimed in Claim 1, wherein Module A can be stacked onto Module B and Module B stacked onto Module C to form a dining table or a coffee table with addition of a table top.

11. A modular boat as claimed in Claim 1, wherein Module F can be stacked onto Module E and Module E stacked onto Module D to form a cabinet or a King Size Bed or A Queen Size Bed or beds of other sizes, depending on the sizes of the Modules.

12. A modular boat as claimed in Claim 1 comprising a plurality of modules which can be stacked one on top of the other by a user when transported from the user's home to the sea or water, said modules assembled together, for use and thereafter disassembled after use, and stacked one on top of the other for transportation back to the user's home.

13. A modular boat as claimed in Claim 1 wherein the modular boat can be assembled from a combination of a plurality of modules, to form a bow, a mid section and a stern section.

14. A modular boat as claimed in Claim 1 wherein the bow is formed from Module A.

15. A modular boat as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the mid section is formed from a combination of one or more Modules of Module B, Module C or Module D or

Module E or Module F.

16. A modular boat as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein the stern section is formed from a configuration of any one or more Modules of Module A or Module B, or Module C or Module D or Module E or Module F.

17. The connecting means for a modular boat as claimed in Claim 1 wherein the back of a module can be joined to the front of the next module by simple connection means.

18. The connecting means for a modular boat as claimed in Claim 1 wherein the back of a module can be joined to the front of the next module by slot in connection means with rollers wherein the front of one module is slotted into the back of the adjoining module and each module has rollers to facilitate the slotting together of modules.

19. The connecting means for a modular boat as claimed in Claim 1 wherein the back of a module can be joined to the front of the next module by slot in connection means with a linear rubber grip wherein the front of one module is slotted into the back of the adjoining module and each module has linear rubber grips to facilitate the slotting in together of modules .

20. The simple connection means as claimed in Claim 17 wherein the back of a hull of the front module and the front of the back module to be joined have a plurality of corresponding holes so that when the back of the module is joined to the front of a hull of the adjoining module, said holes being brought into alignment and a bolt is inserted through each hole, and the bolt tightened with a nut.

21. The simple connection means as claimed in Claim 17 having additionally, a rubber washer is inserted between the back of a hull of the front module and the front of the back module to be joined, said rubber washer also having a plurality of holes corresponding to the holes in the back of the hull of the front module and in the front of the hull of the back module.

22. The simple connection means as claimed in Claim 17 having additionally a rubber washer is inserted between each hole in the back of the hull of the front module and each hole in the front of the hull of the back module to be joined.

23. The slot in connection means with rollers as claimed in Claim 18 wherein the back of a hull of the front module and the front of the hull of the back module to be joined have a plurality of corresponding holes so that when the back of the hull of the front module is joined to the front of a hull of the adjoining module, said holes being brought into alignment and a bolt is inserted through each hole, and the bolt tightened with a nut and further secured by magnets around the bolt, if necessary.

24. The slot in connection means with rollers as claimed in Claim 18 wherein the back of a module can be joined to the front of the next module by slot in connection means with rollers wherein the front of one module is slotted into the back of the adjoining module and each module has rollers to facilitate the slotting in together of modules.

25. The slot in connection means with a linear rubber grip as claimed in Claim 19 wherein the back of a hull of the front module and the front of the hull of the back module to be joined have a plurality of corresponding holes so that when the back of the hull of the back module is joined to the front of a hull of the adjoining module, said holes being brought into alignment and a bolt is inserted through each hole, and the bolt tightened with a nut and further secured by magnets around the bolt, if necessary.

26. The slot in connection means with a linear rubber grip as claimed in Claim 19 wherein the back of a module can be joined to the front of the next module by slot in connection means with a linear rubber grip wherein the front of one module is slotted into the back of the adjoining module and each module has linear rubber grips to facilitate the slotting in together of modules.

27. The slot in connection means as claimed in Claim 18 or Claim 19 having additionally, a rubber washer inserted between the back of a hull of the front module and the front of the back module to be joined, said rubber washer having a plurality of holes corresponding to the holes in the back of the hull of the front module and in the front of the hull of the back module.

28. The slot in connection means as claimed in Claim 18 or Claim 19 having additionally a rubber washer is inserted between each hole in the back of a hull of the front module and each hole in the front of the back module to be joined.

29. A modular boat as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 2 which can be assembled with Module A forming a bow of the modular boat, any one or more Modules of Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F forming the mid section and stern sections, wherein an outboard motor can be attached to the stern .

30. A modular boat as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 2 which can be assembled with Module A forming a bow of the modular boat, any one or more Modules of Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F forming the mid section and stern sections, wherein the sides of the modular boat so formed can be attached with one or more outboard motors.

31. A modular boat as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 2, wherein one or more of the said modules can be purchased and assembled with Module A forming a bow of the modular boat, any one or more of Modules of Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F forming the mid section and stern sections and wherein one or more modules of Module B, Module C, Module D, Module E and Module F can be left out if a smaller modular boat is desired, to meet specific requirements of the owner.

32. A modular boat as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 2 which can be assembled and use in the seas, on rivers and lakes for recreational purpose or for police or military use and disassembled after such usage, and stored on land and used as furniture components.