Rotating T-Top for center console boat

Abstract

This invention provides a top (commonly called a T-Top) for a center console boat providing protection form the sun and elements for passengers, which a) may be easily attached to existing metal (typically stainless steel) grab rails on the fiberglass console structures on the center of the vessel, b) may be lowered by rotating forward or rearward for storage or clearance under bridges by rotating forward or rearward about fixed pivot points by removing positioning pins or bolts, c) provides open access completely around the perimeter of the boat without straps or other contrivances attached to the gunwales or perimeter of the boat, d) may utilize optional gas spring assistance for raising and lowering and e) may provide mounting for optional removable windshield, fishing rod holders, gear net storage, sound speakers, navigation equipment, interior lights and spot lighting. The top shall be constructed of rigid metal, metal tubing or plastic tubing and covered with a flexible or rigid material for protection from the elements. Typical T-Top designs are “fixed”, and do not allow the top to be lowered. Other “removable” T-Tops either a) must be lifted from the vessel (do not rotate) or require special mounting to the floor or fiberglass structure of the vessel.

1 . A boat top, intended to provide protection of the occupants of a center console type boat from the elements of sun, wind and rain, comprising
 a) a frame that is sufficiently rigid and stable to allow the vessel to be operated safely at normal operating, planning speeds;   b) mounted to the vessel by affixing pivot points with removable pins or bolts to the vessel's existing center console railing structure;   c) which requires no holes be drilled in or through or otherwise modifying the existing vessel's core structure (fiberglass, wood or aluminum) for the purpose of mounting the top;   d) which requires no mounting straps or brackets affixed to the perimeter of the vessel;   e) which allows the top to be removed or rotated forward or rearward to allow the vessel to return to its original height (prior to installing the top) to provide more vertical clearance for storage in garages, storage buildings, dry stacks or passage beneath low bridges or under trees;   f) and provides a mounting point for accessories such as windshields, spray shields, lights, rod holders, and antennas.