Cover for pontoon boat

Abstract

A quick-install cover system for a watercraft includes a cover having a cover body and a tension member that extends about a bottom of the cover body. The tension member is selectively tensionable to transform the cover from a loose configuration to a tightened configuration. At least one anchor point arranged at the watercraft. The tension member is coupled to the at least one anchor point when the cover is transformed from the loose configuration to the tightened configuration.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 755,629, filed Feb. 7, 2025, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a cover for a boat, and more particularly, to a cover for use with a pontoon boat.

[0003] It is well known to provide a boat with a cover to protect the inside of the boat when the boat is not in use. In many instances, boats utilize covers designed to be affixed to the boat via a plurality of snaps or other affixing mechanisms. The snap members are spaced about the entire perimeter of the cover to effect affixation thereof. For example, pontoon boats typically include a plurality of snap members affixed to the outboard side of the rails forming the perimeter fencing of the pontoon boat. Covers of this type are relatively difficult to install about the boat.BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0004] According to an embodiment, a quick-install cover system for a watercraft includes a cover having a cover body and a tension member that extends about a bottom of the cover body. The tension member is selectively tensionable to transform the cover from a loose configuration to a tightened configuration. At least one anchor point arranged at the watercraft. The tension member is coupled to the at least one anchor point when the cover is transformed from the loose configuration to the tightened configuration.

[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one anchor point is permanently affixed to the watercraft.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the watercraft is a pontoon boat and the at least one anchor point is affixed to a deck of the pontoon boat adjacent to a railing system.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the watercraft is a pontoon boat and the at least one anchor point is affixed to a railing system of the pontoon boat.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one anchor point is removably connected to the watercraft.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one anchor point is separable from the watercraft in unison with the cover.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the tension member is separable from the at least one anchor point.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one anchor point is mountable within a clearance formed between a deck and a railing system of the watercraft.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one anchor point is a horseshoe cleat.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one anchor point includes a base plate and a hook extending upwardly from the base plate. The tension member is engageable with the hook.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one anchor point includes a connector engageable with an opening formed in the watercraft. The connector has a feature and the tension member is engaged with an exterior surface of the feature.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one anchor point includes a bracket and a roller rotatably mounted to the bracket. The tension member is engaged with an underside of the roller.

[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one anchor point includes a flange extending from the bracket. The is being removably mountable to the watercraft.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one anchor point includes a resilient feature configured to engage a deck of the watercraft to stabilize the at least one anchor point.

[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one anchor point is arranged at an exterior of a hull of the watercraft.

[0019] According to an embodiment, a watercraft includes a deck and a railing system arranged at an upper surface of the deck. A quick-install cover system is removably connectable to the watercraft. The quick-install cover system includes a cover positionable in overlapping arrangement with the railing system. A tension member is arranged at the cover and connectable to a plurality to anchor points arranged proximate the railing system. The tension member is selectively tensionable to transform the cover from a loose configuration to a tightened configuration.

[0020] According to an embodiment, a pole mounting system for a quick-install cover system of a watercraft includes a support pole for supporting a cover having an engagement member arranged at a first end thereof. A receiving member is arranged at a deck of the watercraft. The engagement member and the receiving member form a quick-connect coupling

[0021] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the receiving member is an opening formed in the deck and the engagement member is droppable into engagement with the receiving member.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the receiving member includes a first magnet and the engagement member includes a second magnet.

[0023] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the support pole is retained in position underneath the cover absent one or more pieces of webbing.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The following descriptions should not be considered limiting in any way. With reference to the accompanying drawings, like elements are numbered alike:

[0025] FIG. 1A is side perspective view of an example of a pontoon boat according to an embodiment;

[0026] FIG. 1B is a top view of a portion of the pontoon boat of FIG. 1A according to an embodiment;

[0027] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of a pontoon boat having a tightened cover according to an embodiment;

[0028] FIG. 3A is a top view of a pontoon boat having one or more anchor points for anchoring a cover according to an embodiment;

[0029] FIG. 3B is a top view of a pontoon boat having a cover attached at one or more anchor points according to an embodiment;

[0030] FIG. 4A is a perspective side view of a pontoon boat having a cover attached to one or more anchor points about the railing system according to an embodiment;

[0031] FIG. 4B is a front view of the pontoon boat of FIG. 4A according to an embodiment;

[0032] FIG. 5 is a detailed perspective view of an anchor point according to an embodiment;

[0033] FIG. 6 is a detailed perspective view of the anchor point of FIG. 6 during installation of a cover according to an embodiment;

[0034] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an anchor point having a tension member connected thereto according to an embodiment;

[0035] FIG. 8 is a plan view of an anchor point having a tension member connected thereto according to an embodiment;

[0036] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an anchor point according to another embodiment;

[0037] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an anchor point according to yet another embodiment;

[0038] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the anchor point of FIG. 10 installed about a pontoon boat according to an embodiment;

[0039] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of another anchor point having a tension member connected thereto according to an embodiment;

[0040] FIG. 12B is a top perspective view of the anchor point of FIG. 12A according to an embodiment;

[0041] FIG. 12C is a side perspective view of the anchor point of FIG. 12A according to an embodiment;

[0042] FIG. 12D is a schematic diagram of a cross-section of an installed anchor point according to an embodiment;

[0043] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a cover having an flap extending from the front of the railing to a front of the pontoon boat according to an embodiment;

[0044] FIG. 14 is a plan view of a watercraft having support poles mounted about the deck 22 according to an embodiment;

[0045] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a pontoon boat having one or more connections for a support pole according to an embodiment; and

[0046] FIG. 16 is a schematic cross-sectional diagram of a pole attached to a deck of a pontoon boat via a pole mounting system according to an embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and method are presented herein by way of exemplification and not limitation with reference to the Figures.

[0048] With reference now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, an example of a vehicle or watercraft, such as a boat is illustrated. The illustrated watercraft or boat 10 is a pontoon boat including one or more elongated pontoons. As shown, the boat 10 includes a pair of substantially identical pontoons 20a, 20b (FIG. 1A) arranged substantially parallel to one another; however, embodiments having another number of pontoons, such as three pontoons for example (see FIGS. 4A and 4B), are also within the scope of the disclosure. The pontoons 20a, 20b are secured proximate a bottom surface 23 of a deck 22. The pontoons 20a, 20b in combination with the deck 22 may form the hull of the boat 10. The deck 22 has a bow or forward portion 24, a stern or aft portion 26, and two opposite lateral sides 28, 30. The first pontoon 20a and the second pontoon may be positioned adjacent to the first lateral side 28 and the second lateral side 30, respectively. A longitudinal axis L of the boat 10 extends through a center of the bow 24 and a center of the stern 26.

[0049] Although not shown, it should be appreciated that the boat 10 may include one or more propulsion systems for moving the boat through water. In some embodiments, the one or more propulsion systems may include at least one of an outboard motor, an inboard motor, a jet powered motor, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the one or more propulsion systems may include propellers and / or impellers.

[0050] As shown, a railing system 32 may be mounted to and extend vertically upward from a top surface 34 of the deck 22. In some embodiments, the railing system is formed by one or more fences or fence portions 33. However, in other embodiments, the railing system may be formed as a unitary structure. The railing system 32 may extend about at least a portion of the deck 22, and in some embodiments, about an entire periphery of the deck 22. In an embodiment, the railing system 32 has one or more openings 36 (FIG. 1B) formed therein. Furthermore, the railing system 32 may include a door 38 (FIG. 1A) at one or more of the openings 36. Such a door 38 may be movable, for example rotatable, between a closed position, in which the opening 36 is sealed, and an open position, in which the opening 36 is exposed.

[0051] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, the boat 10 additionally includes a movable structure 40, such as a bimini, canopy, or marine top for example, mounted to the railing system 32 and / or to the deck 22. As shown, the movable structure 40 may include a movable frame 42 comprised of a number of structural members that support a piece of material 44. The frame 42 is movable between an extended position in which the movable structure 40 provides shade or shelter from the elements over at least a portion of the deck 22, and a collapsed position, in which the movable structure 40 is stowed. However, it should be appreciated that embodiments of a watercraft 10 that do not include such a movable structure are also contemplated herein. It should be appreciated that although the watercraft 10 illustrated and described herein is a pontoon boat, other types of watercraft, such as a speed boat or a sport boat for example, are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0052] With reference to FIG. 2, a cover 50 is typically installed over at least a portion of the watercraft 10 to prevent water and other debris from collecting inside the watercraft 10 when not in use. As shown, the cover 50 may be formed from a flexible, air impermeable, such as nylon, canvas, or another suitable weather-proof material for example. A bottom 52 of the cover 50 defines an opening (not shown) such that the cover 50 may be fitted to and secured about a portion of the watercraft 10, such as about a periphery of the railing system 32. The cover 50 may be dimensioned to conform closely to one or more exterior contours of the watercraft 10. For example, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the watercraft 10 is a pontoon boat and the cover 50 is sized to protect the play pen 35, which is the area of the deck 22 positioned within the railing system 32. In embodiments where the watercraft 10 is a different type of boat, the cover 50 may be configured to fit about the hull of the watercraft 10.

[0053] Unlike existing pontoon boat covers, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the bottom 52 of the cover 50 may not fit about the bow 24 and / or the stern 26 of the deck 22. As shown, the bow end 51 of the cover 50 may not generally extend beyond the front portion of the railing system 32 located near the bow 24. In embodiments where a movable structure 40, such as a bimini frame or tower is affixed to the watercraft 10, the movable structure 40 may be stowed at a location underneath the cover 50, as shown in FIG. 2, or may be stowed at a position above the cover 50.

[0054] The cover 50 additionally includes a fastening system 54 operable not only to attach the cover to the boat 10, but also to tighten the cover 50 about a portion of the boat 10, thereby creating tension in the cover 50. When properly installed and tightened, the cover 50 will remain securely in place, for example during trailering of the watercraft 10 which includes transport of the watercraft 10 on a trailer at speeds commonly associated with travel on a highway. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the cover 50 is configured to tighten about at least a portion of the railing system 32. For example, the bow end 51 of the cover 50 may wrap and tighten about a front of the railing system 32, an aft end 53 of the cover 50 may wrap around and tighten about a rear of the railing system 32 and / or the lateral sides of the cover 50 may wrap around and tighten about the sides of the railing system 32.

[0055] The affixing system 54 may include one or more tension members 56 that extend about the bottom 52 of the cover 50. In an embodiment, the bottom 52 or hem of the cover 50 includes one or more pockets (not shown), and the at least one tension member 56 is threaded through the one or more pockets. Although the at least one tension member 56 is illustrated as a piece of webbing or a strap in the FIGS., in other embodiments, the at least one tension member 56 may be a rope, cable, or another suitable member for example. The at least one tension member 56 may be a single and continuous tension member that extends about an entire periphery of the hem of the cover 50; however, embodiments where the tension member 56 is not continuous, such as where the tension member 56 includes a plurality of connected or separate tension members, or embodiments where the tension member 56 extends about only a portion of the hem of the cover 50 are also contemplated herein.

[0056] A force may be applied to the at least one tension member 56 to selectively tighten the at least one tension member 56, thereby restricting movement of the cover 50 relative to the watercraft 10. In an embodiment, a tightening mechanism (not shown), for example a ratchet, is operably coupled to the at least one tension member 56. However, it should be understood that other suitable tightening mechanisms, such as a winch, gearing, or pulley for example, are also within the scope of the disclosure. The tightening mechanism may be accessible via a pocket, an access panel, or a zippered slit 58. In the non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 4A-4B, the pocket 58 for accessing the tightening mechanism is arranged at the front 51 of the cover 50, such as at a position aligned with the front opening 36 of the railing system. Operation of the tightening mechanism applies a tension to the at least one tension member 56, thereby pulling the cover 50 taut about the watercraft 10. This tension is used to transform the cover 50 from a loose configuration to a tightened configuration

[0057] The cover 50 may be anchored at one or more anchor points arranged about a periphery of the watercraft 10. In an embodiment, the cover 50 is anchored about a watercraft by the tension member 56 at each of the anchor points. It should be appreciated that the boat 10 includes several fixtures, such as cleats or anchors mounted to the upper surface 34 of the deck 22. However, these fixtures are typically used for mooring or tying the watercraft to another vessel. The anchor points for anchoring the cover 50 during installation thereof are separate from these fixtures, as will be described in more detail below.

[0058] With reference to FIGS. 3-4B, a plurality of anchor points are generally identified at 60. At least one anchor point is positioned near a bow of the watercraft 10. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIGS. 3-4B, one or more anchor points 60a1, 60a2 are arranged proximate or directly adjacent to a front of the railing system 32 for example. These anchor points 60a1, 60a2 may be referred to herein as “front anchor points.” As shown, a first anchor point 60a1 may be arranged adjacent to a first side of a front opening 36 formed in the railing system 32 and a second anchor point 60a2 may be arranged adjacent to a second, opposite side of the front opening 36. The first and second anchor points 60a1, 60a2 may be generally horizontally aligned. In an embodiment, the pocket 58 containing the tightening mechanism is located between the first and second front anchor points 60a1, 60a2 when the cover 50 is installed about the watercraft 10.

[0059] Alternatively, or additionally, one or more anchor points may be located near the lateral sides 28, 30, i.e., the port and starboard sides of the boat 10. For example, a first laterally arranged anchor point 60b1, also referred to herein as lateral anchor point, is arranged at or proximate the port side 28 of the watercraft 10 and a second lateral anchor point 60b2 may be arranged a or proximate the starboard side 30 of the watercraft 10. The lateral anchor points 60b1, 60b2 may be aligned or coaxial with the front anchor points 60a1, 60a2. In such embodiments, the lateral anchor points 60b1, 60b2 may be arranged at the front of the railing 32, generally near the corners of the railing 32. However, in other embodiments the lateral anchor points 60b1, 60b2 may be longitudinally offset from the front anchor points 60a1, 60a2, such as toward in a direction toward the bow 24 for example.

[0060] The lateral anchor points 60b1, 60b2 may be arranged at an angle relative to the front anchor points 60a1, 60a2. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, each lateral anchor point 60b1, 60b2 is arranged near a respective front corner of the railing system 32 and is oriented substantially perpendicularly to the closest front anchor point 60a1, 60a2. However, in other embodiments, each of the lateral anchor points 60b1, 60b2 located near a front corner of the railing system 32 is arranged at an angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees relative to the front anchor points 60a1, 60a2.

[0061] In some embodiments, the watercraft 10 may alternatively, or additionally, include one or more additional anchor points 60c1, 60c2 arranged at another location about the railing system 32, such as at the back of the railing system 32 near the stern 26, or at the lateral sides proximate the stern 26 for example (see FIG. 2). In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a first anchor point 60c1 may be arranged adjacent at a side of an opening 37 formed in the back of the railing system 32 and a second anchor point 60c2 may be arranged adjacent to a second, opposite side of the opening 37. The first and second anchor points 60c1, 60c2 may be referred to herein as back anchor points and in some embodiments are generally horizontally aligned. Further, each of the front anchor points 60a1, 60a2 may, but need not be longitudinally aligned with a respective back anchor point 60c1, 60c2.

[0062] Although the anchor points 60a1, 60a2, 60b1, 60b2, 60c1, 60c2 have been generally described relative to a pontoon boat, it should be appreciated that such anchor points may be arranged at similar positions about the hull of another type of watercraft. For example, two front anchor points may be arranged at or near the bow, two lateral anchor points may be located near the corners formed between the bow and respective port and starboard sides, and one or more back anchor points may be formed at the stern of the hull. The total number of anchor points 60 arranged at any watercraft 10, may be less than ten, and in some embodiments, may be between two and eight.

[0063] As noted above, the tension member 56 of the cover 50 is connectable to each of the plurality of anchor points 60 to anchor the cover 50 relative to the watercraft 10. Anchor points 60 formed from any suitable material and formed with any suitable configuration operable to receive and retain the tension member 56 are contemplated herein. For example, in the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 5-8, an exemplary anchor point 60 is formed by a horseshoe cleat 100. The horseshoe cleat 100 may be formed from a metal, or from a plastic for example. As shown, the structure of the horseshoe cleat 100 may include a generally C-or U-shaped body having a first arm 102, a second arm 104, and a connector 106 extending between and coupling the first and second arms 102, 104. The first and second arms 102, 104 may be oriented generally parallel to one another, or in some embodiments, may extend outwardly away from one another. A clearance is defined between the first arm 102, second arm 104, and connector 106, and an anchor arm 110 extends from the connector 106 within the clearance.

[0064] A bottom (not shown) of the anchor arm 110 positioned closest to the deck 22 may have a smooth contour, such as a curved surface for example, to minimize friction with the tension member 56. A tension member 56 is installable about the horseshoe cleat 100 by extending the tension member 56 downwardly through the gap between the first arm 102 and the anchor arm 110, underneath the anchor arm 110, and extending the tension member 56 upwardly through the gap formed between the anchor arm 110 and the second opposite arm 104. As a result, the tension member 56 is looped underneath the anchor arm 110 for engagement therewith. In an embodiment, the anchor point 60 has a low-friction surface positionable in contact with the tension member 56 to prevent damage to the tension member 56. For example, the bottom surface of the anchor arm 110 may be a low-friction surface.

[0065] Another example of a structure 118 used to form an anchor point 60 is illustrated with reference to FIG. 9. As shown, the structure 118 of the anchor point includes a base plate 120 and a hook 122 protruding upwardly and away from the base plate 120. A clearance 124 may be defined between the hook 122 and an upper surface 126 of the base plate 120. While the structure 118 is illustrated as being formed from a metal material, it should be appreciated that embodiments where the structure 118 is formed from another suitable material, such as a plastic or a composite material for example, are also within the scope of the disclosure. Similar to the horseshoe cleat, the structure 118 may be fixedly mounted to a portion of the watercraft 10, such as to the deck 22 or to the railing system 32. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the structure 118 is affixed to the watercraft 10 via one or more fasteners (not shown) extendable through holes 128 formed in the base plate 120. However, the structure 118 may be attached to the watercraft 10 in any suitable manner.

[0066] The structure 118 of the anchor point 60 may be positioned such that the distal end 130 of the hook 122 extends in a direction away from the railing system 32. During installation of the cover 50, the tension member 56 can be slid into the clearance 124 between the hook 122 and the base plate 120. Engagement between the tension member 56 and the hook 122 will restrict separation of the cover 50 from the anchor point formed by structure 118. In an embodiment, the surface of the hook 122 facing toward the base plate 120 and configured to contact the tension member 56 when coupled to the structure 118 is a low-friction surface.

[0067] With reference now to FIGS. 10-11, a structure 140 used to form an anchor point 60 for anchoring the cover 50 during installation of the cover about the watercraft 10 is illustrated according to another embodiment. As shown, the anchor point 60 includes a bracket 142 and a roller 144 rotatably mounted to a bracket 142. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the bracket has a C or U-shaped configuration, and the roller 144 is rotatably mounted at a position between opposing sides of the bracket 142. The roller 144 may be positioned such that a clearance 146 is defined between a bottom of the roller 144 and the adjacent surface 148 of the bracket 142. Further, a width of the roller 144 may be generally equal to, or in some embodiments, may be greater than a width of the tension member 56. Accordingly, the tension member 56 of the cover 50 may extend through the clearance 146 underneath the roller 144 and may engage a surface of the roller 144. In an embodiment, the material of the roller 144 may be selected to has a low-friction surface engageable with the tension member 56. In other embodiments, a coating may be applied to the exterior of the roller 144 to achieve a low-friction surface.

[0068] In an embodiment, the structure 140 defining an anchor point, such as a front anchor point 60a1, 60a2 for example, may be fixedly mounted to the watercraft 10, such as to the deck 22 or to the railing 32. In such embodiments, one or more fasteners may couple the bracket to the deck 22 or to the railing system 32. However, in other embodiments, such as shown in the FIGS., the structure 140 may be coupled to the cover 50 and therefore is separable from the watercraft 10 with the cover 50. In such embodiments, the structure 140 is removably mountable to the watercraft 10 and forms a connection with the watercraft 10 that is separate from the connection formed by the tightened tension member 56 and the watercraft 10.

[0069] In embodiments where the structure 140 is removably attachable to the watercraft 10, each bracket 142 may include a feature used to couple the bracket 142 to the watercraft 10. With reference to FIG. 10, in an embodiment, a flange 150 extends from a surface of the bracket 142, such as from a back 152 of the bracket 142 for example, in a direction away from the roller 144. As shown, the flange 150 may be oriented generally perpendicular to the back 152 of the bracket 142. Although the flange 150 is illustrated as being oriented generally parallel to the rotational axis of the roller 144, in other embodiments, the flange 150 may extend at another angle thereto. In an embodiment, the flange 150 includes a resilient feature 154 to stabilize the flange 150. As shown, the feature 154 may be a tab that protrudes at a downward angle from a distal end 156 of the flange 150 in a direction toward of the bracket 142.

[0070] During installation of a cover 50 having one or more structures 140 coupled to the tension member 56, the bracket 142 of each structure 140 may be positioned near the deck 22 of the watercraft 10, with the back 152 of the bracket 142 proximate or abutting against an exterior surface of the railing system 32. To couple the structure 140 to the watercraft 10, the flange 150 extending from the bracket 142 is inserted into a small clearance, identified generally at 158 in FIG. 12, formed between a bottom of the railing system 32 and the upper surface 34 of the deck 22. When installed, the resilient feature 154 may be compressed between the railing system 32 and the upper surface 34 of the deck 22. The bias of the resilient feature 154 exerts a force on both the railing system 32 and the deck 22, thereby restricting unintended movement of the structure 140 within the gap 158. Installation of the flange 150 into the gap 158 beneath the railing system 32 retains the bracket 142 in position about the railing system 32, even as the tension member 56 is tightened and an upward force is applied by the tension member 56 to the structure 140 via the roller 144. It should be appreciated that although the structure 140 is illustrated as having a flange 150 removably engageable with the railing system 32 of the watercraft 10 to form an anchor point 60 of the cover 50, any feature or mechanism removably engageable with a portion of the watercraft 10 to couple the structure 140 thereto is within the scope of the disclosure.

[0071] With reference now to FIGS. 12A-12D, another example of a structure 160 operable to form an anchor point 60 of a cover 50 is illustrated. As shown, the structure 160 may be a connector removably engageable with an opening 162 (see FIG. 12D) formed in the watercraft 10. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the connector 160 includes a shaft 164 selectively lockable within the opening 162, such as via a ball detent 166 or other suitable quick-connect mechanism. The ball detent 166 may be retractable into the interior of the shaft 164 to remove the shaft 164 from the opening 162 and therefore to decouple or separate the connector 160 from the watercraft 10.

[0072] The connector 160 may include a feature 170 formed at the end 168 of the shaft 164 positionable adjacent to the exterior of the watercraft 10, such as an exterior of the railing system 32 or to a hull for example. The feature 170 may be generally cylindrical in shape, similar to a roller or bearing for example. The tension member 56 of the cover 50 may be designed to slidably engage the surface 172 of the feature 170. The feature 170 may be formed from a material, or may include a coating such that the exterior surface 172 of the feature 170 engageable with the tension member 56 has a reduced friction, thereby reducing the likelihood of damaging the tension member 56.

[0073] In an embodiment, the exterior surface 172 of the feature 170 is contoured to include a first sloped region 174a and a second sloped region 174b. The first and second sloped regions 174a, 174b may be oriented in opposite directions such that a peak is formed at a center of the feature 170 along a longitudinal axis of the connector 160. However, it should be appreciated that embodiments where the feature 170 has a uniform surface and embodiments where the surface 172 has another configuration are also within the scope of the disclosure. In an embodiment, a cap 176 may be arranged at the outermost end of the connector 160, abutting against the feature 170. The cap 176 may form a barrier to restrict separation of a tension member 56 from the connector 160.

[0074] To quickly install a cover about the watercraft 10, one or more connectors 160 are installed within one or more openings 162 formed about the watercraft 10, such as at the locations of the front anchor points 60a1, 60a2, lateral anchor points 60b1, 60b2, and / or rear anchor points 60c1, 60c2 as previously described herein. Once the shaft 164 of a connector 160 is fully inserted into the opening 162, the connector 160 is locked in position via the ball detent. The cover 50 may then be positioned such that the tension member 56 is arranged at an underside of each feature 170, between the cap 176 and the surface of the watercraft 10. This engagement between the tension member 56 and the feature 170 of each connector 160 anchors the tension member 56 at each respective connector 160 about the watercraft 10. Tension may then be applied to the tension member 56 to tighten the cover 50 about the watercraft 10, such as about the railing system 32 or hull for example. Although the connectors 160 are described as being installed prior to positioning of the cover 50 over the watercraft 10, it should be appreciated that embodiments where the connectors 160 are installed after the cover 50 is positioned about the watercraft 10 and embodiments where the connectors 160 are installed simultaneously with the positioning of the cover 50 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0075] Regardless of the configuration of the anchor points 60 and whether the anchor points 60 are permanently fixed to the watercraft 10 or are removably connectable to the watercraft via the cover 50, once the cover 50 is positioned about a watercraft 10 and the tension member 56 is engaged with the anchor points 60, operation of the tightening mechanism applies a tension to the tension member 56, thereby pulling the cover 50 taut about the railing system 32 or hull of the boat 10. This increase in tension is used to transform the cover 50 from a loose configuration (not shown), to a tightened configuration, as shown in FIG. 3. The one or more anchor points 60a1, 60a2, 60b1, 60b2 arranged proximate the front of the railing system 32 prevent movement of the cover, such as by maintaining the bottom of the cover 50 in close proximity to the deck 22 along the front of the railing system 32 while the cover 50 is tightened. This is contrary to existing covers which typically have a plurality of clips spaced approximately 12 inches apart for connecting the body of the cover 50 to the deck 22 or to railing system 32. In addition, existing covers typically form an arch at the front of the railing system 32. In an embodiment, such as shown in FIG. 13, the cover 50 may include an additional flap 180 or bonnet configured to extend beyond the front of the railing system 32 to a front 24 of the deck 22 to further facilitate sealing of the cover 50 against the deck 22.

[0076] The cover 50 and anchor points 60 as described herein may be part of a quick-install cover system. In an embodiment, the quick-install cover system additionally includes one or more support poles 200 positionable about the deck 22 of the boat 10, underneath the cover 50, to support the cover 50 and prevent water from pooling on top of the cover 50. The support poles 200 may be integrated into the cover 50 or alternatively, may be separate therefrom.

[0077] A lower end of each support pole 200 is positionable in contact with the deck 22, and in some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 14, a plurality of straps or pieces of webbing 210 may be attached to the support pole 200 proximate a second, opposite end thereof. The straps 210 may be windably coupled to the support pole 200 via a webbing attachment device (not shown). In use, the plurality of straps 210 extend radially outwardly from the support pole 200 and are connectable to a plurality of peripheral attachment points located at various positions of the watercraft 10, such as about the railing system 32 for example. When the straps 210 are deployed in such a manner, the straps 210 and the at least one support poles 200 provide an underlying structure for supporting the cover 50. The positioning of the at least one support pole 200 and the webbing straps 210 may retain the cover 50 in a desired position to prevent pooling of water on the top surface thereof. However, embodiments where the support poles 200 do not include straps 210 that are extendable therefrom are also contemplated herein.

[0078] With reference to FIGS. 15-16, each support pole 200 may be removably mountable to the deck 22 via a pole mounting system. In an embodiment, the pole mounting system is configured to retain each support pole 200 in position underneath the cover 50 absent the use of one or more pieces of webbing 210 as described with reference to FIG. 14. One or more receiving members 202 may be formed at or near the upper surface 34 of the deck 22, such as within the play pen 35 for example. Each support pole 200 may include an engagement member 206, such as arranged at a bottom first end 204 of the pole 200 for example, that is connectable with a corresponding receiving member 202 to mount the pole 200 to the deck 22.

[0079] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 15, each receiving member 202 is an opening formed in the deck 22, and each engagement member 206 is a detent or other quick-connect coupling that is lockable within in the receiving member 202 to restrict separation of the pole 200 from the receiving member 202. The engagement member 204 and the receiving member 202, in combination, form a quick-connect coupling that may be easily disengaged, such as by manual application of a force to an actuator on the pole for example. In other embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 16, the receiving member 202 may be a first magnet and the engagement member 206 located at the pole 200 may be a second magnet. It should be appreciated that the embodiments of the engagement member 206 and receiving member 202 illustrated and described herein are intended as an example only and that any suitable quick connect coupling for mounting a pole 200 at a corresponding location about the deck 22 is contemplated herein.

[0080] Because the watercraft 10 often pulls forward into a slip for mooring, it may be desirable to install the cover 50 from the back 26 of the watercraft 10 toward the front 24 of the watercraft 10. During this cover installation process, the one or more support poles 200 may be dropped into engagement with a corresponding receiving member 202 at one or more desired locations. The opening at the bottom 52 of the cover 50 may then be place over the railing system 32 and on top of the one or more support poles 200 protruding upwardly beyond the railing system 32. During this placement of the cover 50, the cover 50 may be anchored to the watercraft 10 at one or more anchor points 60 by coupling the tension member 56 of the cover 50 to the anchor points 60 as previously described herein. With the cover 50 anchored, an operator may apply a tension to the tension member 56 to tighten the tension member about the watercraft 10, thereby pulling the cover 50 taut.

[0081] In an embodiment, the cover 50 is shaped such that in the tightened configuration, the cover 50“cups” the at least one support pole 200. For example, the cover 50 may include a pocket or a sewn region (not shown) for receiving the top end 208 of the support pole 200. This pocket may be arranged directly behind the support pole 200, such as relative to a direction of movement of the watercraft 10 during trailering for example. By positioning the top end 208 of the support pole 200 within such a pocket or sewn region, engagement between the support pole 200 and the pocket stabilizes the support pole 200 and prevents the support pole 200 from falling backward, such as due to the forces acting on the cover 50, while the watercraft 10 being trailered. It should be appreciated that installation of a quick-install cover system as described herein may take mere minutes, such as 5 minutes of less for example, to install.

[0082] The term “about” is intended to include the degree of error associated with measurement of the particular quantity based upon the equipment available at the time of filing the application. For example, “about” can include a range of ± 8% or 5%, or 2% of a given value.

[0083] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,”“an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, element components, and / or groups thereof.

[0084] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment or embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this present disclosure, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope hereof.

Claims

1. A quick-install cover system for a watercraft comprising:a cover having a cover body and a tension member that extends about a bottom of the cover body, the tension member being selectively tensionable to transform the cover from a loose configuration to a tightened configuration; andat least one anchor point arranged at the watercraft, wherein the tension member is coupled to the at least one anchor point when the cover is transformed from the loose configuration to the tightened configuration.

2. The quick-install cover system of claim 1, wherein the at least one anchor point is permanently affixed to the watercraft.

3. The quick-install cover system of claim 2, wherein the watercraft is a pontoon boat and the at least one anchor point is affixed to a deck of the pontoon boat adjacent to a railing system.

4. The quick-install cover system of claim 2, wherein the watercraft is a pontoon boat and the at least one anchor point is affixed to a railing system of the pontoon boat.

5. The quick-install cover system of claim 1, wherein the at least one anchor point is removably connected to the watercraft.

6. The quick-install cover system of claim 5, wherein the at least one anchor point is separable from the watercraft in unison with the cover.

7. The quick-install cover system of claim 5, wherein the tension member is separable from the at least one anchor point.

8. The quick-install cover system of claim 1, wherein the at least one anchor point is mountable within a clearance formed between a deck and a railing system of the watercraft.

9. The quick-install cover system of claim 1, wherein the at least one anchor point is a horseshoe cleat.

10. The quick-install cover system of claim 1, wherein the at least one anchor point includes a base plate and a hook extending upwardly from the base plate, the tension member being engageable with the hook.

11. The quick-install cover system of claim 1, wherein the at least one anchor point includes a connector engageable with an opening formed in the watercraft, the connector having a feature and the tension member being engaged with an exterior surface of the feature.

12. The quick-install cover system of claim 1, wherein the at least one anchor point includes a bracket and a roller rotatably mounted to the bracket, the tension member being engaged with an underside of the roller.

13. The quick-install cover system of claim 12, wherein the at least one anchor point includes a flange extending from the bracket, the flange being removably mountable to the watercraft.

14. The quick-install cover system of claim 12, wherein the at least one anchor point includes a resilient feature configured to engage a deck of the watercraft to stabilize the at least one anchor point.

15. The quick-install cover system of claim 1, wherein the at least one anchor point is arranged at an exterior of a hull of the watercraft.

16. A watercraft comprising: a deck;a railing system arranged at an upper surface of the deck;a quick-install cover system removably connectable to the watercraft, the quick-install cover system including:a cover, the cover being positionable in overlapping arrangement with the railing system; anda tension member arranged at the cover and connectable to a plurality to anchor points arranged proximate the railing system, the tension member being selectively tensionable to transform the cover from a loose configuration to a tightened configuration.

17. A pole mounting system for a quick-install cover system of a watercraft, the pole mounting system comprising:a support pole for supporting a cover, the pole having an engagement member arranged at a first end thereof; anda receiving member arranged at a deck of the watercraft, wherein the engagement member and the receiving member form a quick-connect coupling.

18. The pole mounting system of claim 17, wherein the receiving member is an opening formed in the deck and the engagement member is droppable into engagement with the receiving member.

19. The pole mounting system of claim 17, wherein the receiving member is a first magnet and the engagement member is a second magnet.

20. The pole mounting system of claim 17, wherein the support pole is retained in position underneath the cover absent one or more pieces of webbing.

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