Inflatable sailboat

US6131532A · kind A · utility

Inventors

• William K. Winner · White Salmon, US
• David C. Johnson · Portland, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 15, 1998
• Grant date: Oct 17, 2000
• Expiry date: Jan 15, 2018

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B63B32/51
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

An inflatable sailboard consisting of an inflatable hull, a mast, a boom, and a sail, and optionally comprising a removable rigid deck and auxiliary devices such as mast supports and center boards attached to the hull by through-hull fittings. The hull of the invention consists of a plurality of independently inflatable compartments, has a relatively high beam width to length ratio, generally in the range of 1/3 to 2/3, and in preferred embodiments may be employed without mast, boom, or sail, and with an attached seat, as a kayak. The hull may also be towed by a boat or jet ski for sporting use, or may be used as a "boat trailer" to transport supplies or equipment. The sail of the invention incorporates head and foot cups adapted to attach the sail to the mast to control tension within the sail. Preferred masts for use with the invention are provided in a plurality of assemblable sections, and include an adjustable support for the boom and improved hull attachment means. The mast and boom optionally include a telescoping features to facilitate changing between sails of various sizes.