Water vessel stabilization apparatus

Abstract

An apparatus attachable to a docking structure and configured for getting into and out of a small water vessel. The apparatus may comprise a support structure, a handrail, and a vessel retaining arm. The support structure may comprise a support rail fixed via a base to the dock. The handrail may be pivotally attached to the support structure such that in an unfolded configuration, the handrail extends perpendicular to the support rail, and in a folded configuration, the handrail is substantially parallel to the support rail. The vessel retaining arm may be attached to and freely pivot relative to a distal end of the handrail. In the unfolded configuration, the handrail may extend over the water vessel, allowing a user to grasp the horizontal and / or support structures while getting into and out of the water vessel.

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]1. Field[0002]Embodiments of the present invention relate to an apparatus for stabilizing a kayak or other small water vessel so that a person can more easily get into and out of the vessel.[0003]2. Related Art[0004]Getting into and out of kayaks and other small water vessels from a dock can be challenging for a number of reasons. First, wind or waves may cause the vessel to float in a direction away from the dock. Second, the user may tip the vessel over or fall out of the vessel while lowering themselves into it. Accordingly, a user may need something to stabilize themselves and / or the vessel as they get into and out of it.[0005]Many different types of devices have been developed in an attempt to alleviate these problems. For example, an overhead assist bar may be mounted between two adjacent docks or sections of a single dock and may be grasped by a user as the user gets into or out of a vessel. However, this requires that the two docks or dock sections be built c...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides an apparatus that can be mounted anywhere on a dock or pier over a body of water. It allows users to easily get into and out of small water vessels like kayaks or canoes. The apparatus consists of a support structure fixed to the dock or pier and a handrail that can pivot between a folded and unfolded configuration. The handrail can also have a vessel retaining arm that can be pivoted between a folded and unfolded configuration. The length of the handrail and vessel retaining arm can be adjusted via mechanical actuation. This invention provides a convenient and flexible way to access water vessels from various locations on a dock or pier."

Problems solved by technology

Getting into and out of kayaks and other small water vessels from a dock can be challenging for a number of reasons.

First, wind or waves may cause the vessel to float in a direction away from the dock.

Second, the user may tip the vessel over or fall out of the vessel while lowering themselves into it.

Moreover, although such bars help a user steady him or herself, they do not help stabilize the vessel itself.

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