Multi-position automated convertible vberth for marine vessels

Abstract

A multiple position automated convertible V-berth system for marine vessels having a pair of independent bunks sections, and guide mechanisms for controlling the physical movement of the bunks from one configuration to another. Included is automatic actuation and electronic controls for activating movement of the bunks from one configuration to another in conjunction with the guide mechanism. The multiple position automated convertible V-berth system is convertible between a V-berth configuration and an island bed configuration, eliminates manual operation, and includes automatic deployment and retraction of a table.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 114,960, filed on Feb. 11, 2015.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT[0002]N / ABACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]1. Field of the Invention[0004]The present invention generally relates to cabins for marine vessels and more particularly to an automated and convertible V-berth having multiple positions and features.[0005]2. Description of Related Art[0006]Marine vessel and watercraft designs have included a variety of cabin eating, seating, and sleeping arrangements and designs for the boaters. Specifically, there are many different designs for master and quest berths pleasure crafts, luxury sport boats and yachts. Many berths provide the user with a V-berth as known in the industry, which commonly includes two separated sections of sleep beds, cushions or couches in a “V” configuration, and an open central area for accommodating individuals in...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The convertible sleep / seating system described in this patent is a highly automatic and efficient system that can change from a V-berth seating configuration to an island bedding configuration without the need for manual adjustment or extra furniture. This system uses a simple switch control to easily accommodate multiple positions between these configurations, and also includes a table and entertainment options. Overall, this system offers a flexible and cost-effective solution for multifunctional use on boats or other watercraft.

Problems solved by technology

However, many conventional berths require an operator to manually remove and reposition bed, support, table and / or furniture pieces, as well as store these units.

This proves to be laborious, cumbersome, inefficient and frustrating, especially when required on a daily basis.

Other conventional designs include power operated devices which control movement of certain pieces or units to aid in different elevations or configurations, however, none address the inventive subject matter herein.

A further problem is that berths do not provide both a fixed island bed and a V-berth within the same interior section of the boat.

Although prior designs have sought to improve the features, ergonomics and utility of V-berth and alternative bed / berth configurations and furniture, and may include certain power operated components to assist with movement or operation, these designs have failed to adequately maximize space, convertibility, or automation, and do not address or solve the problems mentioned above.

However, this reference does not describe specifics or particular means of accomplishing these options.

While these designs provide some optional features and units for convertible configurations for berths, dinettes and beds, they require particular structural mechanisms that are relatively limited in purpose and application, and do not address the need for an automated convertible bed of multiple configurations, which also accommodates seating and entertainment needs.

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