Multi-chambered structure

Abstract

A structure consists of an intermediate platform surmounted by at least one chamber of spherical or partially spherical form occupying a relatively major portion of the platform upper surface, and a plurality of smaller chambers on the underside of the platform. The preferred construction of the chamber walls is single panel monocoque. When used as a boat, the lower chambers may be buoyancy chambers. A string of such boats are well adapted for ocean-going transportation. The structure may be insulated and reinforced by the application of an interior layer of polycarbonate foam. Three or more underside chambers in mutually spaced apart relation constitute flotation chambers on which the vessel is supported. The chambers provides efficient, stable buoyancy, and promote effective streamlining for ease of movement over the water. Smaller versions may form play houses; miniature versions may serve as play toys.

1 . A lightweight structure having a deck surmounted by a substantially semi-spherical enclosure having at least one access door to the interior thereof, and a plurality of enclosed support structures in mutually spaced supporting relation beneath the deck.  
   
   
       2 . The structure as set forth in  claim 1 , wherein said support structures are substantially semi-spherical.  
   
   
       3 . The structure as set forth in  claim 1 , wherein said semi-spherical structure is of monocoque construction.  
   
   
       4 . The structure as set forth in  claim 2 , wherein said semi-spherical structures are of monocoque construction.  
   
   
       5 . The structure as set forth in  claim 1 , wherein said deck is substantially triangular in plan-form.  
   
   
       6 . The structure as set forth in  claim 1 , wherein at least one said structure has an insulative layer over at least a portion of the interior of the structure.  
   
   
       7 . The structure as set forth in  claim 3 , wherein said monocoque construction consists of a plurality of ribbed panels in mutually abutting, secured relation, said enclosure having at least one rib extending inwardly from said panels, within said enclosure.  
   
   
       8 . The structure as set forth in  claim 1 , having a pair of said access doors; said enclosure including at least one window.  
   
   
       9 . The structure as set forth in  claim 1 , wherein said deck is a composite structure of channel sections, having an upper and a lower sheathing to substantially enclose the deck, as a sealed structure.  
   
   
       10 . The structure as set forth in  claim 1 , being a boat, in combination with at least one outboard motor.  
   
   
       11 . The combination as set forth in  claim 9 , including access steps secured to said deck.  
   
   
       12 . A structure consisting of a deck surmounted by a substantially monocoque paneled enclosure having at least one access door to the interior thereof, wherein said enclosure has a wall consisting of a plurality of panels in mutually abutting relation.  
   
   
       13 . The structure as set forth in  claim 12 , wherein a plurality of said panels are windows.  
   
   
       14 . The structure as set forth in  claim 12 , wherein said enclosure is attached in substantially sealed relation to said deck.  
   
   
       15 . The structure as set forth in  claim 14 , including a plurality of enclosed support structures in mutually spaced supporting relation beneath the deck.  
   
   
       16 . The structure as set forth in  claim 15 , wherein said plurality of enclosed support structures are substantially identical; being arranged in mutually spaced relation beneath said deck