Ship deck extender

Abstract

To provide deck extension equipment for a personal watercraft.SOLUTION: A deck member is provided and cantilever-supported over a deck ridge of a personal watercraft. Deck extension equipment 100 is capable of including an attachment sleeve fixed to an upper deck of the personal watercraft in a state of having an attachment tab of a deck member 104 stored inside the attachment sleeve. The deck member 104 is capable of including an attachment mechanism having a placement position and a rotary cleat attached above the placement position composed to have attachments attached to the deck member 104. The deck member 104 is capable of having an indented groove member for having the attachments attached.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 17

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to personal watercraft, and more particularly to accessories for personal watercraft, such as deck extenders. [Background technology]

[0002] U.S. Patent No. 10,577,057 discloses a modular and removable platform for a conventional personal watercraft to provide storage and workspace above the rear deck of a PWC. The modular watercraft platform includes generally flat upper and lower surfaces supported by a plurality of vertical struts that space the platform's lower surface above the original rear deck of the watercraft.

[0003] U.S. Patent No. 9,517,824 discloses another conventional personal watercraft accessory, including a detachable rear extension for the aft end of the vessel, the rear extension housing a portion of the propulsion system and including longitudinal channels for directing passing water flow for propulsion of the associated vessel. The deck extension includes multiple surfaces and walls shaped to conform to portions of the lower hull below the vessel's waterline. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] At least one aspect of the invention disclosed herein includes the realization that a marine deck extender can be cantilevered. Such a deck extender can have an upper support surface that extends beyond the edge of the original ship deck, the deck having attachments and a support surface above the waterline that provide a significant portion or all of the structural support for the deck extender. For example, a marine deck extender can include a sleeve member secured to the upper deck and a deck section having a tab that penetrates the sleeve, the sleeve resisting lift-off of the tab. A further outboard portion of the deck extender can contact a portion of the ship's deck to provide support with sufficient strength to allow the outboard portion of the deck to cantilever over the edge of the ship. Furthermore, such a shape lends itself to a low profile, thereby avoiding separate vertical struts separating the removable deck from the ship's upper deck. Thus, the deck extender can have a low profile and the cantilevered structure can effectively extend the upper deck surface of the vessel beyond the edge of the vessel, for example, but without limitation, 4 inches or more.

[0005] In some embodiments, when the boat is stationary in the water, the upper surface of the deck extender, when attached in use, is generally or substantially parallel to the water surface. This can be advantageous because some boats have a sloped rear deck area, for example, aft of the rearmost seat, that slopes gently toward the waterline and away from the rear seats. This configuration is common and is more optimized for water sports and lighter boats. However, some users prefer to have additional, relatively horizontal, flat space at the rear of the boat to facilitate other activities according to their preferences. Therefore, providing an extended, flat surface that is generally parallel to the waterline of the boat can provide additional convenience for some users.

[0006] Thus, in some embodiments, a marine deck extender can comprise a deck member including an upper support surface, a lower surface, and first and second mounting tabs configured to have sufficient strength to cantilever the deck member aft of the upper deck of a personal watercraft. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a side view of a personal watercraft at rest in water and including a deck extender according to one embodiment. [Figure 1B] 1 is a schematic diagram of a personal watercraft having a deck extender and operating in a transitional state. [Figure 1C] 1 is a schematic diagram of a personal watercraft having a deck extender and operating in a planing condition. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a top view of a personal watercraft having a deck extender. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is an enlarged side view of the rear of a personal watercraft having a deck extender showing operation of the storage bin lid; [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is an enlarged perspective view of the rear of the personal watercraft with the mounting member installed and the deck extender removed; [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a partially exploded perspective view of the deck extender from an angled rear view showing the mounting tabs separated from the mounting sleeve of the deck extender assembly. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a rear view of the mounting sleeve of FIG. 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the mounting sleeve and mounting tab of the deck extender, as viewed from the rear right and below. [Figure 8A] FIG. 10 is an enlarged exploded side view of the mounting sleeve and mounting tabs. [Figure 8B] FIG. 10 is a side view of the mounting sleeve and deck extender moved together in an assembled state. [Figure 9A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the deck extender and sleeve removed from the vessel, seen from the upper left rear. [Figure 9B] FIG. 10 is an enlarged side view of an optional mounting groove included with the deck extender. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a plan view of the deck extender and sleeve of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the deck extender and sleeve of FIG. [Figure 12] 10 is a perspective view of the deck extender and sleeve of FIG. 9 as viewed from the right front and below. FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a modified embodiment of the deck extender with optional mounting equipment, viewed from below and slightly rear left. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a left side view of the deck extender of FIG. 13. [Figure 15] FIG. 14 is an enlarged bottom view of the deck extender of FIG. 13. [Figure 16] FIG. 14 is a rear view of the deck extender of FIG. 13. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another variation of a removable deck with an integrated telescoping boarding ladder in an optional extended position, viewed from above and slightly rearward to the left. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of a removable deck including four mounting assemblies, viewed from the upper left rear. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is an enlarged exploded perspective view of the attachment mechanism of the removable deck of FIG. 18. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is an enlarged perspective view of the mounting assembly of FIG. 19 in an open state. [Figure 21] FIG. 20 is an enlarged perspective view of the mounting assembly of FIG. 19 in a closed state. [Figure 22] 22 is a cross-sectional view of the mounting assembly of FIG. 19 in an open state, taken along section 22-22 of FIG. 20. [Figure 23] 23 is a cross-sectional view of the mounting assembly of FIG. 22 with the support leg partially inserted into the mounting assembly. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the mounting assembly with the mounting legs fully inserted. [Figure 25]FIG. 22 is a rear view showing the optional open, over-center catch mechanism that secures the mounting leg to the mounting mechanism of FIGS. 18-21. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a rear view of the over-center fastener of FIG. 25 in a closed position. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a side view of an attachment leg secured by an over-center fastener, showing additional clearance between the over-center fastening mechanism and the ends of the cleat portion of the attachment mechanism. [Figure 28] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an optional rack assembly connected to a removable deck, seen from diagonally above and behind the left. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the rack of FIG. 28 removed from the boat, seen from the upper left rear. [Figure 30] 29 is a perspective view of the rack of FIG. 28 as seen from diagonally below and in front of the right. [Figure 31] 29 is a perspective view of the rack of FIG. 28 as seen from diagonally above and behind the left, and an exploded perspective view as seen from the left. [Figure 32] FIG. 10 is a side view of the rack partially engaged with the removable deck during the installation procedure. [Figure 33] FIG. 1 is a side view of the rack fully seated on the removable deck. [Figure 34] A perspective view of an aesthetically pleasing optional design for the removable deck, seen from the front and top right. [Figure 35] 35 is a perspective view of the removable deck of FIG. 34 as seen from diagonally above and behind the right side. FIG. [Figure 36] FIG. 35 is a top view of the removable deck of the embodiment of FIG. 34. [Figure 37] 36 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 35 as seen from the lower right front. [Figure 38] 35 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 34 as seen from below and diagonally behind the right. [Figure 39] FIG. 35 is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 34. [Figure 40] FIG. 35 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 34. [Figure 41]FIG. 35 is a left side view of the embodiment of FIG. 34. [Figure 42] FIG. 35 is a rear view of the embodiment of FIG. 34. [Figure 43] FIG. 35 is a right side view of the embodiment of FIG. 34. [Figure 44] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aesthetically pleasing embodiment of a rack, viewed from the left rear and above. [Figure 45] FIG. 45 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 44. [Figure 46] FIG. 45 is a left side view of the embodiment of FIG. 44. [Figure 47] FIG. 45 is a rear view of the embodiment of FIG. 44. [Figure 48] FIG. 45 is a right side view of the embodiment of FIG. 44. [Figure 49] FIG. 45 is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 44. [Figure 50] FIG. 45 is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 44. [Figure 51] 45 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 44 as seen from the lower right front. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The invention disclosed herein has particular utility in accessories for personal watercraft, and is therefore described below in that description. However, the invention disclosed herein is applicable to other situations. Furthermore, the personal watercraft described below are described in several different configurations, including a static configuration in which the vessel floats in still water with a buoyancy-equivalent amount of water displaced; a transition configuration in which the vessel moves from a displaced state to a planing state during acceleration; and a planing configuration in which the vessel moves at a speed sufficient to support the vessel above the water surface with the hull wetted and with minimal contact with the water surface.

[0009] Figure 1A is a side view of a personal watercraft 1 including a deck extender 100 according to one embodiment when the personal watercraft 1 is floating and stationary in water, Figure 1B shows the personal watercraft 1 in a transition state between a water-displaced state and a planing state, and Figure 1C shows the personal watercraft 1 in a planing state. Figure 2 is a plan view of the personal watercraft 1 including the deck extender 100. Figure 3 is an enlarged side view of the rear of the personal watercraft 1 with the deck extender 100 showing the operation of a lid over a rear storage area on the personal watercraft 1.

[0010] As shown in FIG. 1, the personal watercraft 1 includes a hull 2, a deck 3, a seat 4, and a steering wheel 5. The deck 3, also referred to as the upper deck, can be attached to the hull along a connecting flange. The deck 3 may include a seat base 3A. The seat 4 and the steering wheel 5 are located above the deck 3. The seat 4 and the steering wheel 5 are supported on the deck 3. As shown in FIG. 2, the seat 4 and the steering wheel 5 are located in the center of the personal watercraft 1 in the left-right direction. The seat 4 is located behind the steering wheel 5 and is supported by the seat base 3A. The seat 4 extends in the front-to-rear direction in a plan view. The seat 4 may be configured for three people, for example. The seat 4 is not limited to a three-person configuration, and may be configured for two people or one person.

[0011] As shown in FIG. 1 , the personal watercraft 1 further includes an engine 6 and a jet pump 7. The engine 6 is disposed within the hull 2. The jet pump 7 is disposed at the rear of the hull 2. The engine 6 is disposed forward of the jet pump 7. The seat 4 is disposed above the engine 6. The deck 3 includes a platform 8 disposed at the stern of the personal watercraft 1. The platform 8 slopes gently downward toward the waterline, away from the seat 4. The jet pump 7 is disposed below the platform 8. The jet pump 7 is driven by the engine 6.

[0012] Continuing with reference to FIG. 1 , the personal watercraft 1 is shown at rest, floating in water at the depth indicated relative to the waterline due to its buoyancy. The depth the personal watercraft 1 reaches below the waterline depends on the total weight and the volume of water displaced by the hull of the personal watercraft 1. As previously mentioned, the platform 8 forming the rear deck of the personal watercraft 1 slopes gently toward the waterline, away from the seat 4. According to some embodiments, the deck extender 100 can be configured such that its upper surface 120 extends generally parallel to the waterline when the personal watercraft 1 is at rest and floating in water. In some embodiments, the upper support surface 120 of the deck extender 100 is not perfectly parallel to the waterline, but may be closer to parallel to the waterline than the surface of the platform 8.

[0013] 1B, as the personal watercraft 1 accelerates in water from a stationary or slow moving position toward a planing position, the personal watercraft 1 undergoes a transitional position where the forward end of the personal watercraft rises out of the water. In some embodiments, the deck extender 100 can be configured so that the deck extender 100 does not contact the water surface when the personal watercraft 1 is in transition.

[0014] After further acceleration, the personal watercraft 1 reaches a planing state, such as that shown in Figure 1C. For vessels such as the personal watercraft shown in Figure 1, the planing state is reached at speeds exceeding 15-20 miles per hour. In the planing state, as shown in Figure 1C, a smaller area of ​​the bottom of the hull 2 ​​remains in contact with the water, and therefore a smaller amount of the hull 2 ​​is wetted during forward movement, thereby significantly reducing the hydrodynamic drag between the hull 2 ​​and the water.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 3 , a small portion of the platform 8 can be substantially horizontal below the aft end 4 a of the seat 4, but the aftmost portion of the platform 8 slopes gently downward toward the waterline W. As shown in FIG. 2 , the platform 8 is preferably rectangular in plan view. The right, left, and rear sides of the platform 8 are open. When the personal watercraft 1 is floating in the water, the platform 8 is located above the waterline W. Therefore, when the deck extender 100 is removed, a passenger can crawl out of a position on the platform 8 into the water by passing through the side or rear of the platform 8. Furthermore, a passenger can move from a position in the water onto the platform 8 by passing through the side or rear of the platform 8.

[0016] The jet pump 7 is configured to generate thrust by sucking in water from below and ejecting it rearward. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1 , the jet pump 7 includes an impeller 9 connected to the engine 6 and a steering nozzle 10 disposed rearward of the impeller 9. The impeller 9 is disposed within a flow path 11 provided within the personal watercraft 1. A first end of the flow path 11 defines an intake port 12 that opens at the bottom surface of the hull 2, and a second end of the flow path 11 defines an outlet port 13 that opens at the steering nozzle 10. The steering nozzle 10 is configured to turn right or left in response to operation of the steering handle 5.

[0017] When the impeller 9 is rotationally driven by the engine 6, water is drawn into the flow path 11 through the intake port 12. A portion of the flow path 11 downstream from the impeller 9 can be considered the high-pressure side of the jet pump 7. The water drawn into the flow path 11 through the intake port 12 is sent to the flow path 11 by the impeller 9 and ejected from the outlet through the steering nozzle 10. This generates thrust that propels the personal watercraft 1. When the steering handle 5 is operated, the direction of the steering nozzle 10 changes, changing the direction in which water is ejected from the steering nozzle 10. Therefore, the steering handle 5 is configured to change the direction in which water is ejected from the jet pump 7. The personal watercraft 1 is steered by operating the steering handle 5.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 1 , the personal watercraft 1 further includes a cooling water passage 14 and a wash water passage 15 disposed inside the personal watercraft 1. The cooling water passage 14 connects the engine 6 to the high-pressure side of the jet pump 7. A portion of the water sent to the flow path 11 by the jet pump 7 is supplied to the cooling water passage 14. Therefore, the water supplied to the cooling water passage 14 is supplied to a water jacket provided on the engine 6. This cools the engine 6.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 3 , the deck 3 includes a seat support portion 50 that supports the seat 4, and a cover 60 that covers the seat support portion 50 from the rear side at a height between the rear end 4 a of the seat 4 and the platform 8. The cover 60 includes an outer wall 19, and the seat support portion 50 includes an inner wall 20. The platform 8 and the inner wall 20 are preferably integral with each other, and the outer wall 19 is separate from the platform 8 and the inner wall 20.

[0020] The flush water passage 15 includes a first end 16 connected to the cooling water passage 14 and a second end 17 connected to the article storage space S1, which will be described in more detail below. The check valve 18 is configured to allow water to flow only in the direction from the second end 17 to the first end 16. Therefore, even if water flows from the cooling water passage 14 to the flush water passage 15, this water is stopped by the check valve 18. On the other hand, water supplied from the second end 17 to the flush water passage 15 passes through the check valve 18 and flows into the cooling water passage 14. The cooling water passage 14 and the water jacket can be cleaned with water supplied from the flush water passage 15.

[0021] Optionally, personal watercraft 1 may include a visible nozzle 8A located on platform 8. A passageway 8B may connect nozzle 8A to the high pressure side of jet pump 7. Passageway 8B may supply water from the high pressure side of jet pump 7 to nozzle 8A, which, during use, ejects water upward into the air.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 1A, the storage space S1 is located rearward of the engine 6. The storage space S1 is located at a height between the rear end 4a of the seat 4 and the platform 8. The storage space S1 is located forward of the rear end of the platform 8. As shown in FIG. 3, the outer wall 19 defines an opening O1 through which the storage space S1 can be accessed. The opening O1 penetrates the outer wall 19 in the front-to-rear direction. The opening O1 is located rearward of the storage space S1. The storage space S1 can be accessed from rearward of the opening O1.

[0023] As shown in Fig. 3, the outer wall 19 includes a lid 21 configured to open and close the opening O1. The deck 3 further includes a hinge 22 that connects the lid 21 and the deck 3. The hinge 22 is provided on a lower portion 21a of the lid 21. The lid 21 is rotatable about the hinge 22 between a closed position in which the lid 21 closes the opening O1 and an open position in which the lid 21 opens the opening O1. The hinge 22 is configured to function as a grip.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 2, the personal watercraft 1 further includes a mount grip 23 that is U-shaped in plan view and disposed along the rear of the seat 4. The mount grip 23 extends forward from the rear end 4a of the seat 4 along the rear of the seat 4. The mount grip 23 includes a grip portion 23a provided at the rear end of the mount grip 23. As shown in FIG. 1, the hinge 22 is disposed rearward of and lower than the grip portion 23a. Furthermore, the hinge 22 is disposed lower than the seat 4. The hinge 22 is closer to the platform 8 than the grip portion 23a.

[0025] By opening the lid 21, a passenger can place items in and take items out of the item storage space S1 through the opening O1 while standing on the platform 8 or the deck extender 100. Furthermore, because the opening O1 is located near the rear end 4a of the seat 4, the passenger can place items in and take items out of the item storage space S1 through the opening O1 while sitting on the seat 4. Furthermore, because the outer wall 19 is inclined so that the upper end 19a of the outer wall 19 is located further forward than the lower end 19b of the outer wall 19, a passenger sitting on the seat 4 can more easily access the item storage space S1 than, for example, if the outer wall 19 extended vertically. Therefore, the passenger can easily access the item storage space S1 from a position on the deck 3 or the seat 4.

[0026] Additionally, in some embodiments, the deck extender 100 may include a generally U-shaped removable deck member that includes a barb that provides a clearance around the bottom edge of the lid 21, thereby facilitating movement of the lid 21 between the closed and open positions, as shown in FIG.

[0027] 4-8, the deck extender 100 may include a mounting portion 102 and a deck member 104. The mounting portion 102 may include one or more mounting sleeve portions 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting portion 102 includes a right mounting sleeve 106 and a left mounting sleeve 108.

[0028] The mounting sleeves 106 and 108 may be generally channel-shaped in cross section. The mounting sleeves 106 and 108 are configured to attach to the front of the platform 8 on either side of the seat base 3A. In some embodiments, the mounting sleeve portions 106, 108 are configured to attach to the deck 3 just aft of the peak, which forms the footwell of the vessel 1. The footwell reaches its maximum depth along the side of the seat base 3A and reaches its peak just forward of the illustrated locations of the mounting sleeve portions 106, 108. The surfaces on either side of the seat base 3A extend generally horizontally in the area just aft of the seat base, then extend aft from the peak towards the platform 8, which may slope gently towards the waterline.

[0029] When positioned in this manner, the mounting sleeves 106, 108 form a generally low-profile superstructure of the deck and do not present an undue obstruction to access to the footwell. For example, water can enter the footwell during use of the personal watercraft 1. As the vessel accelerates at transition speed (FIG. 1B), water in the footwell can flow over the peak of the deck 3 at the rear of the footwell and exit aft. Because the mounting sleeves 106, 108 are generally low-profile, they do not substantially impede the exit of all of the water from the footwell during transition speed operation.

[0030] 6-8, the mounting sleeve portions 106, 108 include first and second side rail portions 110, 112 and a central groove 114. An upper connecting wall 116 connects the side rail portions 110, 112 and extends beyond the groove 114. The upper connecting wall 116 has an inwardly facing surface 115 that contacts a portion of the deck 104, thereby functioning as a support surface for cantilevering the deck 104.

[0031] The side rail portions 110, 112 may include openings to accommodate fasteners that secure the rails 110, 112 to the platform 8. For example, threaded fasteners, such as lag screws (which may have tapered heads), may be inserted through the side rail portions 110, 112 and into the platform 8. In addition, the rails 110, 112 may include a countersunk upper orifice that accommodates the tapered head, threaded fastener. The threaded fasteners may be inserted into and / or penetrate the platform 8 to secure the sleeves 106, 108 to the platform 8. Optionally, the fasteners used to secure the mounting sleeves 106, 108 may be further secured with an adhesive to enhance a watertight seal with the platform 8. When the mounting sleeves 106, 108 are attached to the platform, their respective grooves 114 face downward, i.e., toward the deck.

[0032] 6-8, when the sleeves 106, 108 are attached to the deck 8, the groove 114 is configured to receive a portion of the removable deck member 104 and resist a lifting force of the received portion. Additionally, in this position, the support surface 115 faces away from the deck 8 and downward toward the deck 8, thereby being able to withstand support of the deck 104 in a cantilevered position.

[0033] 5, the removable deck member 104 can include at least one tab member 122. In the illustrated embodiment, the removable deck member 104 includes a right tab member 122 and a left tab member 124. The right and left tab members 122, 124 are configured to be received in the grooves 114 of the mounting sleeve portions 106, 108, respectively.

[0034] For example, with reference to Figures 6 and 8A, when the sleeves 106, 108 are attached to the deck 8, the groove 114 forms a rearward facing opening 117 into which the tabs 122, 124 can be inserted.

[0035] 8A, the groove 114 of the mounting sleeve portions 106, 108 has a variable depth. For example, the front of the groove 114 can have a first depth 130, and the rear of the mounting sleeve portions 106, 108 can have a second depth 132 that is greater than the first depth 130. In some configurations, this varying depth can be achieved by forming a top wall 116 of generally uniform thickness using rails 110, 112 that vary in height, decreasing toward the front and first depth 130 and increasing at the rear, which forms the second depth 132 at the rear of the mounting sleeve portions 106, 108. Additionally, in some embodiments, the bottom surfaces 111, 113 of the rails 110, 112 can be angled or curved to match the curvature of the corresponding portion of the platform 8.

[0036] 8, the tabs 122, 124 can be configured to be inserted into respective grooves 114 in the mounting sleeves 106, 108. In some embodiments, the tabs 122, 124 include upper surfaces 140 configured to rest against the inwardly facing surfaces 115 of the grooves 114.

[0037] Optionally, the lower surfaces 142 of the tabs 122, 124 can be curved or shaped to move away from the platform 8 or to complement and rest against the upper surface of the platform 8. For example, the lower surfaces 142 of the tabs 122, 124 can have a flat and / or generally curved shape that matches the upper surface of the platform 8 near the mounting sleeve portions 106, 108. Depending on the vessel, that portion of the platform 8 can be flat, horizontal, or have a gently curved shape. Other shapes can also be used.

[0038] 9A-12, the deck member 104 can be generally linear with a U-shaped portion 150. The U-shaped portion 150 can include a right arm portion 152, a left arm portion 154, and a barb portion 156 connecting the right and left arm portions 152, 154. The barb portion 156 can include a recess 157 configured to allow the deck member 104 to straddle the rear of the seat base 3A when the tabs 122, 124 are received within the mounting sleeve portions 106, 108, respectively. Additionally, the barb portion 156 can include a further recessed portion 157 formed to allow the lid 21 to move from a closed position to an open position (FIG. 3).

[0039] In some embodiments, the deck member 104 may include an opening in its rear edge that can form a handle. In other embodiments, the rear of the removable deck member 104 may be solid and have a separate handle 160 attached to the top surface. Other variations in handle configurations may also be used. In use, any such handle may be used by a user when re-emerging onto the deck member 104 from the water, and may also be used when carrying the deck member 104 during installation and removal.

[0040] The upper surface 120 of the deck member 104 may be formed to be generally flat. Additionally, the removable deck member 104 may be configured such that the upper surface 120 is generally horizontal when the tabs 122, 124 are received within the mounting sleeves 106, 108 and the personal watercraft 1 is at rest floating on water. Thus, the upper surface 120 may be considered to be generally parallel to the waterline of the personal watercraft 1.

[0041] Additionally, in some embodiments, the personal watercraft 1 to which the removable deck member 104 is attached includes a gently curved platform 8. The platform 8 may be convex and gently curve downward toward the waterline and away from the seat base 3A. Thus, in some embodiments, the underside 125 of the deck member 104 may include a gently curved lower surface portion, e.g., a concave arc in side view, and may be configured to support the gently curved, convex arc shaped upper surface of the platform 8.

[0042] In some embodiments, the underside 125 can be divided into multiple sections with grooves, dividers, and cuts so that the entire lower portion of the deck member 104 is not supported by the upper surface of the platform 8. Rather, the gaps, recesses, and cuts keep a substantial amount of the surface 125 in contact between the underside 125 and the platform 8 to reduce stress concentrations that occur with the use of multiple independent supports extending between the platform 8 and the member 104.

[0043] For example, the lower surface 125 may be configured to form multiple contact areas having an approximate total surface area of ​​20% or more of the footprint area of ​​the lower surface 125 on the platform 8. Such multiple contact areas help to distribute the load supported by the deck member 104.

[0044] 11 , the lower support surface 125 of the removable deck member 104 can be considered to outline a footprint identified by a three-times thick line 161 that circumscribes the perimeter of the portion of the support surface 125 that contacts the upper surface of the platform 8. A contact area 162 within the footprint 161, shown with light hatching in FIG. 11 , is the portion of the support surface 125 that contacts the upper surface of the platform 8. As shown in FIG. 11 , in some embodiments, the contact area 162 includes the forward-most portion of the footprint 161, the lateral-most portion of the footprint 161, and the aft-most portion of the footprint 161, or portions extending near these. Additionally, there are gaps, spaces, and discontinuities within the contact area 162. However, in some embodiments, the contact area 162 can be greater than 10% of the footprint. As previously mentioned, the contact area 162 can be 20% or greater of the footprint 161.

[0045] 9A and 9B, the deck member 104 may also include one or more accessory mounting rails 165. The rails 165 may be configured to allow accessories to be adjustably attached to the deck member 104. Such accessories may be attached to the rails 165 by a variety of different types of mechanisms.

[0046] In some embodiments, the rail 165 can include a lower groove 166 that defines a recessed channel that accommodates a mounting fastener. Additionally, the rail member 165 can include a lower support surface 167 that extends to either side of the central groove 166. The rail 165 can also include an upper wall 168 and a top wall 169 that partially surround the central passage 165A. Thus, the central passage 165A can capture a portion of a fastener used to secure an accessory to the rail 165.

[0047] For example, an accessory including a lug (not shown) wider than the space between top walls 169 can be inserted into the end of rail 165 and slid to the desired position. A clamping mechanism can then be used to press the lug in passage 165A against the underside of top wall 169, thereby securing the accessory in place. A variety of different known clamping mechanisms can be used.

[0048] 9A and 10, the deck member 104 may include a plurality of rails 165 arranged in various locations and orientations. In the illustrated embodiment, the rails 165 are arranged in a rearwardly angled orientation such that the rails extend generally outward from the centerline of the deck member 104 and extend rearward when the deck member 104 is installed on the vessel.

[0049] 5 and 9A, in some embodiments, the rails 165 can be disposed within grooves formed in the top surface 120 of the deck member 104. For example, the top surface 120 of the deck extender can include one or more grooves 121 configured to accommodate the rails 165.

[0050] 9A, 9B, and 10, the deck member 104 can include a mat 171 attached to the upper surface 120. For example, the mat 171 can be a marine mat commonly used in the industry to provide a comfortable padded surface that can withstand a marine environment. The mat 171 can be positioned and secured near the groove 121 so that it extends above the upper surface of the end wall 169 of the rail 165. Additionally, the marine mat can be cut to have an aesthetically pleasing appearance with grooves or gaps between the various pieces. Additionally, the grooves between the pieces of the marine mat can be angled to enhance the drainage of water that may splash onto the deck member 104.

[0051] 9A, 10, 11, and 12, the deck member 104 may include a water conduit 174 attached to the deck member 104. The water conduit may include a water inlet end 175 and a water outlet end 176. The water conduit 174 may be attached to the deck member 104 with the water outlet end 176 located near the outer edge of the deck member. In the illustrated embodiment, the water outlet end 176 is located near the trailing edge of the deck member. The water conduit 174 may be configured to create an aesthetically pleasing water outlet during use. For example, the water inlet end 175 may be connected to the water passage 8B (FIG. 1) to receive pressurized water from the jet pump 7. The water conduit 174 may thus bypass an original OEM water outlet 8A that may be included on the personal watercraft to which the deck member 104 is connected.

[0052] 8B, with tabs 122, 124 inserted into mounting sleeve portions 106, 108, mounting sleeve portions 106, 108 can withstand an uplifting force generated in reaction to a load supported by upper support surface 120. For example, when deck member 104 is mounted as described above, lower surface 125 rests on a portion of the upper surface of platform 8. When a load L is applied to the portion of upper surface 120 that extends beyond the trailing edge of platform 8, the surface of platform 8 can act as a fulcrum F, thereby supporting an upward force F. U acts on the tabs 120, 124. The upward force F acting on the tabs U is counteracted by the mounting sleeve portions 106 , 108 , and more particularly by the threaded fasteners that hold the mounting sleeve portions 106 , 108 to the platform 8 .

[0053] Thus, the aft portion 105 of the deck member 104 can extend beyond the aft edge of the platform 8 by a cantilever length 170. The cantilever length 170 is also referred to as the cantilever length of the aft portion 105. In some embodiments, the cantilever length 170 can be at least 4 inches or greater. In some embodiments, the cantilever length is 6 inches, 8 inches, 10 inches, 12 inches, or greater. Thus, with the structural cantilever support provided by the mounting sleeve attached to only a portion of the vessel above the waterline, the upper surface 120 can provide a significant amount of additional generally horizontal support surface for use by users in various recreational activities.

[0054] In some embodiments, deck member 104 is designed to be strong enough to allow at least one human user to stand on top surface 120. For example, deck member 104 may be designed to allow an adult human weighing, for example, 200-300 pounds, to stand on the trailing edge of deck member 104, approximately at load L (FIG. 8B), which will create a torque about fulcrum F and exert an upward force F. U The deck member 104 may have tabs 122, 124 that are strong enough and integrated into the deck member 104 so that the downward force F is generated at the tabs 122, 124. Thus, the mounting sleeves 106, 108 secured to the platform 8 must be able to withstand the downward force F to withstand the torque generated by the load L. D (FIG. 8B). The deck extender 103 can be formed to have sufficient strength to withstand the torque generated by the load L. Thus, the deck member 104 can provide an effective extension of the vessel's platform 8 beyond the aft edge of the platform 8 by a cantilever distance 170 (FIG. 8B) without requiring additional below-the-water-line holes to be added to the vessel 1.

[0055] In some embodiments, the deck members 104 can be made of lightweight materials such as blow-molded or rotationally molded resin, hi some embodiments, the deck members 104 can be made of lighter-than-water materials and / or can include an internal cavity, optionally filled with foam to provide positive buoyancy.

[0056] 13-16 illustrate modifications of the deck extender 100, identified by reference numeral 100A, that include an optional support arrangement 180 configured to provide additional support for the cantilevered portion 105 of the deck extender 100A. For example, with reference to FIG. 19 , the rear support assembly 180 can include at least one support assembly 182 that extends from a portion of the personal watercraft 1 to a portion of the cantilevered length 170 of the removable deck member 104. In some embodiments, the rear support assembly 180 includes a right support assembly 182 and a left support assembly 184.

[0057] In some embodiments, each of the strut assemblies 182, 184 includes a lower mount portion 186 configured to attach to a portion of the lower hull of the personal watercraft 1 and an upper mount portion 188 configured to mate with the lower surface 125 of the removable deck member 104. For example, the upper mount portion 188 can be received within a mounting recess 191 in the lower surface 125. The mounting portion 188 can be fastened to the recess 191 using threaded fasteners or other types of fasteners.

[0058] The lower mounting portion 186 may be configured to mount to the hull 2 ​​of the personal watercraft 1. For example, in some embodiments, the lower mounting portion 186 may be secured to original-equipment mounting brackets 190 located on either side of a tunnel located in the underside of the hull of the personal watercraft.

[0059] In some personal watercraft 1, the mounting bracket 190 is provided as an original part with a factory-installed hull penetration that secures the bracket 190 to the hull 2. In some personal watercraft 1, the bracket 190 is used to secure a folding boarding step 8C ( FIG. 1 ) that assists a user in re-emerging onto the personal watercraft 1 from the water. Thus, when using the removable deck extender 100, the factory-installed folding boarding step 8C can be removed while the mounting bracket 190 remains in place and the struts 182, 184 are secured to the existing bracket 190. Thus, the strut assembly 180 can provide additional support for the cantilevered portion 105 of the removable member 104 without requiring any additional hull penetrations below the waterline.

[0060] 13-17, the removable deck extender 100, 100A may further include an optional retractable ladder assembly 200. In some embodiments, the retractable ladder assembly may include a telescoping side tube assembly 202 provided with a plurality of crossbars 204 that function as rungs of the extended ladder.

[0061] Optionally, the removable deck member 104 may include a ladder channel 210 (FIGS. 12 and 15) configured to accommodate the telescoping ladder assembly 200. For example, the channel 210 may be a generally linear channel in the lower surface 125 of the deck member 104. The channel 210 thus forms a pocket with the upper surface of the platform 8 when the deck member 104 is attached to the personal watercraft 1. Thus, in the stowed position (FIGS. 12 and 15), the ladder assembly 200 is largely enclosed by the lower surface 125 and the upper surface of the platform 8. The configuration and construction of telescoping ladder assemblies, such as the ladder assembly 200 shown in FIGS. 20-22, are well known in the art. Other types of ladder assemblies may also be used.

[0062] 18-21, the removable deck member 104 may optionally include attachment mechanisms configured to provide attachment locations for additional cargo or accessories. In the illustrated embodiment, the removable deck member 104 includes four spaced apart attachment mechanisms 300, with two mechanisms 300 located toward the front end of the removable deck member 104 and two attachment mechanisms 300 located toward the rear end of the removable deck member 104. Other arrangements of attachment mechanisms and other numbers of attachment mechanisms may also be used.

[0063] 19, the attachment mechanism 300 can include a frame member 302 and an anchor member 304. The anchor member 304 can be mounted for movement between a stowed position (FIG. 21) and a deployed position (FIGS. 19 and 20).

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, the frame member 302 extends generally circularly around a central opening 306. Additionally, the frame member 302 includes a plurality of fastener openings 308 configured to receive threaded fasteners 310 for securing the frame member 302 to the removable frame member 104.

[0065] The anchor member 304 can have any shape and is optionally shaped to engage a securing device such as a rope, bungee cord, bungee cord hook, strap, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, the anchor member 304 is cleat shaped.

[0066] The cleat 304 can include a central stem 310 having an upper end 314 and a lower end 312 connected to the frame member 302. The upper end 314 can include a pair of extension arms 316 extending laterally away from the central stem 310. The arms 316 can be configured to provide mating surfaces for securing the aforementioned devices. Additionally, optionally, the arms 316 can include lateral ends 318 having downwardly curved tips that can be configured to provide further mating with a securing device.

[0067] Optionally, the stem member 310 may include a central opening 320. The central opening 320 may be sized to accommodate a securing device such as a bungee hook, rope, etc. A hinge pin mechanism (not shown) may connect the lower end 312 of the anchor member 304 to the frame member 302.

[0068] Optionally, anchor member 304 can include a detent mechanism 322 configured to bias anchor member 304 into the stowed position ( FIG. 21 ) and the deployed position ( FIG. 20 ). For example, detent mechanism 322 can include a detent member and a spring that biases the detent member to a position that projects outward from the outer surface of bottom end 312 at a position offset from the bottom surface of bottom end 312, thereby providing over-center interaction with another surface in a well-known manner.

[0069] Optionally, the mounting mechanism 300 can be secured over a mounting recess 330 defined by the removable deck member 104. For example, the recess 330 can optionally be smaller in at least one dimension than the bottom surface of the frame member 302 and can extend below at least a portion of the bottom surface of the frame member 302. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the recess 330 is generally groove-shaped, defining a concave arcuate groove disposed adjacent the support surfaces 332, 334. The two support surfaces 332, 334 can be sized to support the bottom surface with a portion of the frame member 302 and can include an opening 336 configured to align with the opening 308 in the frame member 302 and thereby receive the threaded fastener 310 during assembly.

[0070] With recess 330 so positioned, a portion of frame member 302 rests above the open upper end of recess 330, thereby forming a receptacle 340 in channel 330 beneath frame member 302. For example, with reference to FIG. 20 , frame member 302 and recess 330, when assembled, form receptacle 340 therebetween. Receptacle 340 can be used for an optional mode of operation to secure accessories to attachment mechanism 300.

[0071] 20 and 21 , when anchor member 304 is in the stowed position, trunk 310 and arm 316 fit within opening 306. Thus, anchor member 304 can be oriented so that it is essentially flush with frame member 302 when in the stowed position.

[0072] Additionally, optionally, the recess 330 and surfaces 332, 334 can be further recessed from the top surface 120 of the removable deck member 104. For example, with reference to Figure 19, the recess 330 and surfaces 332, 334 can be located within a further recessed portion 338 that can have a depth approximately equal to the height of the frame member 302, such that when installed in the orientation shown in Figure 21, the top surface of the frame member 302 is substantially flush with the surrounding portion of the top surface 120 of the removable deck member 104.

[0073] Additionally, optionally, as previously described, deck member 104 may include matting 171 disposed around recess 330 and / or recess 338. In some embodiments, recess 338 is sized such that the top surfaces of frame members 302 are positioned at the same or substantially the same height, or are recessed from the top surface of matting 171 surrounding attachment mechanism 300.

[0074] 22-24 illustrate optional uses for receptacle 340. As shown in FIG. 22, frame member 302 is mounted over recess 330, forming receptacle 340. As previously discussed, receptacle 340 can be used in optional configurations for mounting accessories. For example, FIG. 23 includes a diagram of an optional structure for an accessory, including leg 350 and mounting toe 352 extending from the bottom of leg 350. Mounting leg 350 can be provided at the bottom of any of a variety of accessories, examples of which are described below with reference to FIGS. 28-33.

[0075] In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting leg 350 has a cross-section that is smaller than the opening 306 in the frame member 302. Thus, the lower end of the mounting leg 350 fits within the opening 306.

[0076] Additionally, attachment leg 350 includes a foot portion 360 extending from a lower end of attachment leg 350. In some embodiments, foot 360 can have a longitudinally extending shape that generally complements recess 330. For example, in some embodiments, foot 360 can have a width that is approximately equal to and / or slightly less than the width of recess 330. Thus, the fit between foot 360 and recess 330 can provide more secure alignment therebetween during use.

[0077] 23 , during use, support leg 350 can be inserted into opening 306, after which toe portion 352 can be wedged under a portion of frame member 302 into receptacle 340. Support leg 350 can then be rotated downward in the direction of arrow P to the position shown in FIG. 24 . As shown in FIG. 24 , the toe portion is captured within receptacle 340 by a portion of frame member 302. Thus, any upward movement of support leg 350 is limited by frame member 302. Additionally, movement in other directions is limited by the close fit between the outer surface of the foot and the outer surface of recess 330.

[0078] 25-27 , an additional anchoring device can be used to prevent upward or pivotal movement of the support leg 350 relative to the attachment mechanism 300. For example, a fastening mechanism 400 can be used to secure the anchor member 304 to a portion of the support leg 350. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism 400 can be configured to provide resistance to rotation of the support leg 350 relative to the attachment mechanism 300. In some embodiments, the fastener 400 can be configured to provide additional biasing or tension to hold the leg or foot 360 seated on the underside of the recess 330. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism can be configured to operate according to an over-center principle of operation.

[0079] For example, in some embodiments, the fastening mechanism 400 can include a pull hook portion 402 having one or more hook members 403, a lever member 404, and a base portion 406. The pull hook portion is connected to the lever member 404 at a drop hook pivot axis 408. The lever member 404 can be directly connected to the base 406 at a base pivot axis 410. Optionally, one of the pull hook portion 420 or the lever member 404 can be slightly resilient. Thus, the fastening mechanism 400 can be configured to deform the resilient one of the pull hook portion 420 or the lever member 404 to cause tension or compression, thereby providing a biasing force. The structure and operation of such over-center fastening mechanisms are well known in the art.

[0080] 25, the fastening mechanism 400 can be configured such that in the open position shown in FIG. 25, the fastening mechanism 400 has sufficient slack to allow the draw hook portion to engage the arm 316 of the anchor member 304. In this position, the distance between the end of the draw hook 402 and the pivot axis 410 is a first distance.

[0081] 25 and 26, as the draw hook 402 is pushed in the direction of arrow C, the draw hook pivot axis 408 passes the base pivot axis 410, thereby drawing the end of the draw hook 402 upward against the anchor member arm 316 and compressing the lever member 404. Now that the base pivot axis 408 is on the other side of the draw hook's axis of rotation, the lever member 404 pushes downward on the base 406, thereby placing the fastener 400 in an over-center, locked position with the bottom of the foot 360 pressed against the recess 330.

[0082] In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 27, the draw hook 402 can be configured with a sufficiently thin hook member 403 that an additional gap 405 remains at the outer end of the arm 316 to provide additional clearance for securing additional ropes or hooks when the fastening member 400 is in use.

[0083] 28-31, the deck extender 100 can be used to support a variety of different types of equipment. One example of an accessory that can be connected to the deck extender 100 is a rack assembly 500. The rack assembly 500 can include a support frame assembly 502 and a support surface assembly 504, and can optionally include a sidewall assembly 506.

[0084] 30 , the support frame assembly 502 can include one or more support legs 510. In the illustrated embodiment, the support frame assembly includes a pair of front legs 512 and a pair of rear legs 510. In some embodiments, the rear leg members 510 can be formed from a generally U-shaped rear leg member 514 having opposite ends forming leg portions 510. A central portion 516 of the leg member 514 is connected to the leg portions 510.

[0085] Similarly, the front legs 512 can be formed as opposite ends of a front leg member 518 having a central portion 520 connecting the leg portions 512. In some embodiments, the front leg portion 512 can include the foot portion 360 described above with reference to Figures 23 and 24. The frame assembly 502 can also include side members 522, 524 connecting the rear and front leg members 514 and 518.

[0086] The support platform 504 may include a support member 530 and may optionally include a configuration of one or more pieces of matting 532, which may be marine matting, and may optionally include borders, spaces, or gaps to define an aesthetically pleasing appearance. The support member 530 may be connected to the leg members 514, 518 and / or the side frame members 522, 524 to provide rigid support to the legs 510, 512.

[0087] 31 , the sidewall assembly 506 can be formed with one or more sidewall portions 540. Optionally, the sidewall assembly 506 can comprise a first sidewall portion 540 and a second sidewall portion 542. Optionally, in some embodiments, one or both of the sidewall portions 540, 542 are configured to be adjustably mounted relative to the support assembly 504, e.g., adjustably laterally relative to the support 504.

[0088] In some embodiments, each of the supports includes a base member 544. The base member 544 can be a structural member having any cross-section or configuration. Additionally, the sidewalls 540, 542 can include one or more upper structural members 546 extending upwardly from the base member 544. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper structural members 546 are generally U-shaped members having a tubular cross-section.

[0089] First and second ends 548, 550 of upper structural member 546 are attached to base member 544. Additionally, upper structural member 546 extends upwardly from first and second ends 548, 550 to a vertical extension 552 connecting first and second ends 548, 550. Upper structural member 546 extends upwardly generally perpendicular to support surface portion 504 to define a sidewall for support portion 504.

[0090] Optionally, an accessory mounting plate 552 can be attached to upper structure member 546. Accessory mounting plate 552 can include a number of differently sized and configured openings to provide a variety of different mounting options for attaching other accessories, tools, or devices thereto. Additionally, upper structure member 546 can include an optional mat 554 attached to its upper surface to, for example, provide a comfortable gripping surface for the user.

[0091] The base member 544 can be fixedly or slidably interlocked with the frame assembly 502. For example, in some embodiments, the sidewall portion 540 includes one or more laterally extending support members 560, 562. The members 560, 562 can have first ends 564, 566 fixed to the base member 544. Additionally, the members 560, 562 can have a length sufficient for a permanent, permanent connection with the support frame assembly 502 or for a sliding or adjustable interlock with the frame portion 502.

[0092] For example, in some embodiments, the rack assembly 500 can include one or more receiving tubes 570, 572 secured to the frame assembly 502 and configured to receive the members 560, 562 for slidable engagement therein. The lengths of the members 560, 562 and the receiving tubes 570, 572 can be configured to allow the side walls 540, 542 to be laterally adjustable a desired amount. Optionally, the rack 500 can include manually operable clamps (not shown) that allow the side walls 540, 542 to be laterally adjustable and locked in a desired position. Additionally, the rack assembly 500 can include a limiter assembly including a mechanism configured to prevent the walls 540, 542 from being fully withdrawn from the receiving tubes 570, 572 without unlocking the locking or limiter mechanism using a tool.

[0093] 32 and 33, as previously described, the front legs may include the feet 360 described above with reference to Figures 23 and 24. Thus, with the toes 352 of the feet 360 inserted into the receptacles 340 (Figures 23-24), the rack assembly 500 may be secured to the deck extender 100 by first moving the rack assembly 500 to the position shown in Figure 32, and then rotating the rack assembly downward in the direction of arrow P until the rear legs 510 are moved into the openings 306 of the rear mounting assemblies 300, as shown in the position shown in Figure 33.

[0094] Optionally, a catch mechanism 400 can be used to secure the rear leg 510 to the rear mounting assembly 300, thereby preventing upward movement of the rear leg 300 relative to the deck extender 100. Thus, with the rear leg 510 secured against upward movement by the catch mechanism 400, the front leg 512 is secured against upward movement by movement of the plurality of toes 352 within the plurality of bays 340. In some embodiments, the front leg 512 can also be provided with a catch mechanism 400.

[0095] In some embodiments, the deck member 104 and mounting sleeves 106, 108 may be packaged and sold as a kit to add the deck extender 100 to a personal watercraft.

[0096] FIG. 34 illustrates optional aesthetically pleasing features of the deck extender 100.

[0097] 44-51 show an optional aesthetic look for rack assembly 500.

[0098] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the present invention. It should be understood that it is obvious to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Claims

1. first and second mount members configured to attach to an upper deck of a personal watercraft, the first and second mount members including first and second support surfaces, respectively, configured to face downward when the first and second mount members are attached to the upper deck of the personal watercraft; a deck member including an upper support surface, a lower surface, and first and second mounting tabs; the first and second mounting tabs are configured to fit onto the first and second support surfaces of the first and second mounting members, respectively, from below and onto the upper deck of the personal watercraft from above; the upper support surface has a dimension large enough to extend beyond an outer edge of the upper deck of the personal watercraft when the first and second mounting tabs are positioned below the first and second support surfaces, respectively, and above the upper deck of the personal watercraft; 1. A deck extender kit for a personal watercraft, wherein, in use, the first and second mounting members are configured to cantilever the deck member with a portion of the deck member extending beyond an edge of the personal watercraft.

2. the underside of the deck member defines a footprint for contacting an upper surface of the upper deck of the personal watercraft and defines a contact area with the upper surface of the personal watercraft; The deck extender kit of claim 1 , wherein the contact area is greater than 10 percent of the footprint.

3. 10. The deck extender kit of claim 1, further comprising at least one post configured to attach to an underside of the cantilevered portion of the deck member and to a portion of the hull of the personal watercraft.

4. 4. The deck extender kit of claim 3, wherein the at least one post is configured to attach to a boarding step bracket of a personal watercraft.

5. 10. The deck extender kit of claim 1, further comprising an attachment mechanism including a frame member, an opening defined by said frame member, and a pivot anchor member pivotally attached to said frame member, said frame member mounted over a recess on said deck member and defining a storage area between said recess and said frame member.

6. The deck extender kit of claim 5 , wherein the pivoting anchor member comprises a cleat.

7. The deck extender kit of claim 1 further comprising a ladder assembly attached to said deck member.

8. the lower surface of the deck member includes a recess; 8. The deck extender kit of claim 7, wherein the ladder assembly is mounted within the recess.

9. the deck extender kit further comprises a water conduit having a water inlet end and a water outlet end; 2. The deck extender kit of claim 1, wherein the water conduit is attached to the deck member with the water outlet end oriented to discharge water upwardly against the upper support surface of the deck member.

10. 2. The deck extender kit of claim 1, wherein the deck member is configured to have sufficient strength to support a 200 pound person standing on the trailing edge of the deck member with only the first and second mounting tabs secured by the first and second mounting members.

11. 10. The deck extender kit of claim 1, wherein the deck member extends beyond the end of the personal watercraft by at least 4 inches.

12. The deck extender kit of claim 1 further comprising at least one channel member attached to said deck member and facing upwardly relative to said upper support surface.

13. 10. The deck extender kit of claim 1, wherein the deck member includes a generally U-shaped recess that spans the rear of a seat base of a personal watercraft.

14. a deck member for attaching to an upper deck of a personal watercraft, the deck member including an upper support surface, a lower surface, and first and second mounting tabs; 1. A deck extender for a personal watercraft, wherein the first and second mounting tabs are configured to have sufficient strength to cantilever the deck member over the aft portion of the upper deck of the personal watercraft.

15. the deck extender further comprising first and second mounting members configured to attach to an upper deck of a personal watercraft; the first and second mounting members including first and second support surfaces, respectively; 15. The deck extender of claim 14, wherein the first and second support surfaces face downwardly toward and are configured to contact the first and second mounting tabs, respectively.

16. 15. The deck extender of claim 14, wherein the deck member further includes a boarding ladder recess and a ladder assembly disposed within the boarding ladder recess.

17. 17. The deck extender of claim 16, further comprising an attachment mechanism including a frame member, an opening defined by said frame member, and a pivot anchor member pivotally attached to said frame member, said frame member mounted above a recess on said deck member and defining a storage area between said boarding ladder recess and said frame member.

18. an upper deck including an upper deck surface; first and second mounting members removably coupled to the upper deck and including first and second downwardly facing support surfaces, respectively; a deck member including an upper support surface, a lower surface, and first and second mounting tabs configured to fit onto the upper deck surface from above and below the first and second downwardly facing support surfaces, respectively; the first and second downward support surfaces are configured to withstand upward movement of the first and second mounting tabs, and the upper deck surface is configured to withstand downward movement of the first and second mounting tabs, such that the deck member is cantilevered with a portion of the deck member beyond an outer edge of the upper deck.

19. 20. The personal watercraft of claim 18, wherein said deck member further includes at least one grip located at the rear of said deck member.

20. the upper deck further includes first and second rearward-facing openings; the first and second downwardly facing support surfaces are disposed adjacent the first and second rearwardly facing openings, respectively; 20. The personal watercraft of claim 18, wherein the first and second rearwardly facing openings receive the first and second mounting tabs, respectively.

Images