Folding top assembly with safety and convenience features
US7438015B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 6, 2007 |
| Grant date | Oct 21, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 6, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB63B17/02
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A powered bimini top is raised and lowered via a remote control. A power actuator operating the top includes a bi-directional reversible pump turned in one direction to lower the top to a fully retracted position and turned in the other direction to raise the top via hydraulic actuators. The top may alternatively be raised and lowered by a spring or a screw actuator. A rigid link is provided on either the watercraft or one of the main struts of the top. The pump, spring or screw actuator causes the main strut to be held against the rigid link (or the rigid link against the watercraft) with sufficient force to prevent substantial relative movement during transport. Secondary struts are biased toward corresponding main struts by elongated elastic cords. A pressure-responsive switch is provided on one of the struts to reverse direction of the top if the strut encounters an obstruction.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.