Storage device for boating accessories

Abstract

A storage device for an overhead cover of a boating vehicle. The storage device provides additional storage space for accessories and personal items being stored on a boat, and provides portable and easy access to the items. In one embodiment of the invention, the storage device is removably secured to the overhead cover of the boat. In this case, the storage device is removable and transportable for use with other vehicles. In an alternative embodiment, the storage device is formed integral with the overhead cover.

1 . A top for use with a vehicle, comprising: 
 a storage apparatus removably attached to the top and configured to hold the equipment, wherein the storage apparatus is collapsible with the top.    
   
   
       2 . The top according to  claim 1 , wherein the storage apparatus is secured to the top at a plurality of locations by a corresponding number of securing members.  
   
   
       3 . The top according to  claim 1 , wherein the storage apparatus is secured to a frame of the top at a plurality of locations by a corresponding number of securing members.  
   
   
       4 . The top according to  claim 3 , wherein the frame apparatus is removably attached to the vehicle along side walls of a passenger compartment.  
   
   
       5 . The top according to  claim 1 , wherein the storage apparatus is expandable to accommodate a variety of equipment.  
   
   
       6 . The top according to  claim 1 , wherein the storage apparatus is formed integral with the top, such that additional securing members are not required.  
   
   
       7 . A storage apparatus for use with an overhead cover and designed to carry equipment, comprising a casing configured to be removably secured to the overhead cover and to store the equipment.  
   
   
       8 . The storage apparatus according to  claim 7 , wherein the casing includes a plurality of securing members for removably securing the storage apparatus to the overhead cover.  
   
   
       9 . The storage apparatus according to  claim 7 , wherein the casing includes a plurality of securing members for removably securing the storage apparatus to a frame of the overhead cover.  
   
   
       10 . The storage apparatus according to  claim 8 , wherein the casing forms a receptacle with a closure at one end for reception of the equipment.  
   
   
       11 . The storage apparatus according to  claim 10 , wherein at least a portion of the casing is waterproof.  
   
   
       12 . A top, comprising a collapsible storage apparatus having a storage area defined substantially by a size of the top and formed integral therewith for securing to a frame of a boating vehicle.  
   
   
       13 . An overhead storage apparatus for storage of accessories and attachable to a cover of a boating vehicle, comprising: 
 a frame configured to be secured to the boating vehicle; and    a canopy top configured as the cover and removably secured to the frame, wherein    the overhead storage apparatus is collapsible and comprised of a flexible material having a receptacle for storage of the equipment and removably secured to the cover or frame of the boating vehicle at a plurality of locations by a plurality of securing members.    
   
   
       14 . The overhead storage apparatus according to  claim 13 , wherein the overhead storage apparatus includes at least one internal storage section to store additional accessories separate from the receptacle.  
   
   
       15 . The overhead storage apparatus according to  claim 13 , wherein the receptacle has an opening at one end and is configured for closure.  
   
   
       16 . The overhead storage apparatus according to  claim 15 , wherein the opening is secured using a fastening device.  
   
   
       17 . An overhead storage apparatus of a boating vehicle for storage of equipment and accessories, comprising: 
 a frame configured to be secured to the boating vehicle; and    a canopy top configured as the cover and removably secured to the frame, wherein    the storage apparatus is collapsible and comprised of a flexible material having a receptacle for storage of the equipment and accessories and formed integral with the top, such that additional securing members are not required.