Accessories for boats and systems and methods for installation and removal of such accessories

Abstract

Accessories for boats, and in particular folding inflatable boats, are described. The accessories may be installed and removed from the boats rapidly and easily, hence not impeding folding of the boats for transport or storage.

1 . A boat comprising: 
 a. a deck including a receptacle; and    b. an accessory firmly connected to the deck but removable therefrom, the accessory (i) being fitted into the receptacle in use and (ii) including a quick-release fastener received by the receptacle in use.    
   
   
       2 . A boat according to  claim 1  further comprising at least one buoyancy tube.  
   
   
       3 . A boat according to  claim 2  further comprising a transom to which an outboard motor may be mounted and in which the accessory is a console.  
   
   
       4 . A boat according to  claim 3  further comprising means for connecting the console to any outboard motor mounted to the transom.  
   
   
       5 - 6 . cancelled  
   
   
       7 . A boat according to claim  61  in which the receptacle is included in a plate incorporated into the deck.  
   
   
       8 . A boat according to  claim 7  in which the deck is removable and comprises multiple foldable sections.  
   
   
       9 . A boat according to  claim 1  in which the accessory comprises a seat structure.  
   
   
       10 . A boat according to  claim 9  in which the seat structure comprises: 
 a. a seat; and    b. a container.    
   
   
       11 . A boat according to  claim 10  in which the container is a fuel tank.  
   
   
       12 . A method of making an inflatable boat having a length more compact for storage or transport, comprising: 
 a. deflating an inflatable element;    b. disconnecting at least one accessory from a deck spanning substantially the length of the boat; and    c. removing the deck.    
   
   
       13 - 20 . cancelled  
   
   
       21 . A boat according to  claim 1  further comprising at least one D-ring, connected directly or indirectly to the deck, for connecting the accessory thereto.  
   
   
       22 . A boat according to  claim 21  in which the D-ring is moveable and projects only slightly above the deck when not in use.  
   
   
       23 . A boat according to  claim 21  further comprising: 
 a. a plate to which the D-ring is attached;    b. a bottom plate positioned underneath the deck; and    c. a fastener connecting the plate and the bottom plate.