MULTI-POSITION SEAT FOR A BOAT

Abstract

A multi-position seat for a boat is configurable to support a person in different positions, such as one or more seated positions and one or more standing positions. The multi-position seat can include a seat bottom, a bolster, and a rest. The bolster can be movable between a use position and an access position. In the use position, the bolster is located above the seat bottom, and in the access position, the bolster is displaced relative to the use position. The rest is movably mounted relative to the seat bottom and positionable in a leaning position and a retracted position. In the leaning position, the rest extends upwardly at an angle transverse to the seat bottom to support at least a portion of an occupant leaning against the rest. In the retracted position, the rest is displaced relative to the leaning position.

Claims

1. A multi-position seat comprising: a seat bottom including a primary seating surface positionable in a lower seating position; a bolster movably mounted relative to the seat bottom and including a bolster seating surface, the bolster being movable between a use position and an access position, wherein, in the use position, the bolster is located above the seat bottom and the bolster seating surface is higher than the primary seating surface in the lower seating position, and in the access position, the bolster is displaced relative to the use position to permit occupant access to the primary seating surface; and a rest movably mounted relative to the seat bottom and positionable in a leaning position and a retracted position, wherein, in the leaning position, the rest extends upwardly at an angle transverse to the seat bottom to support at least a portion of an occupant leaning against the rest, and in the retracted position, the rest is displaced relative to the leaning position to permit occupant access to at least one of the primary seating surface or the bolster seating surface.

2. The multi-position seat of claim 1, wherein the bolster is pivotable between the use position and the access position.

3. The multi-position seat of claim 1, wherein the seat bottom includes a front portion and a rear portion, the rest being positioned at the front portion of the seat bottom in the leaning position and at the rear portion of the seat bottom in the retracted position.

4. The multi-position seat of claim 3, wherein the rest is slidable between the front portion of the seat bottom and the rear portion of the seat bottom.

5. The multi-position seat of claim 3, wherein, when the rest is in the leaning position, the rear portion of the seat bottom is exposed to provide a secondary seating surface and the rest includes a rear-facing surface that forms a backrest for an occupant seated on the secondary seating surface.

6. The multi-position seat of claim 3, wherein the rest, in the retracted position, is positioned to be a backrest for an occupant seated on at least one of the primary seating surface or the bolster seating surface.

7. The multi-position seat of claim 6, wherein, when the rest is in the retracted position and the bolster is in the use position, the rest is positioned to be a backrest for an occupant seated on the bolster seating surface, and wherein, when the rest is in the retracted position and the bolster is in the access position, the rest is positioned to be a backrest for an occupant seated on the primary seating surface.

8. The multi-position seat of claim 1, wherein the seat bottom includes a front portion and a rear portion, and in the use position, the bolster is located above the front portion of the seat bottom.

9. The multi-position seat of claim 8, wherein, in the access position, the bolster extends forward of the seat bottom and includes an extension surface that forms an extended seating surface with the primary seating surface.

10. The multi-position seat of claim 8, wherein the rest includes a cutout shaped to accommodate at least a portion of the bolster when the rest is in the leaning position and the bolster is in the use position.

11. The multi-position seat of claim 10, wherein the bolster includes a front-facing bolster surface in the use position and the rest includes a front-facing rest surface in the leaning position, and when the rest is in the leaning position and the bolster is in the use position, the bolster is positioned within the cutout such that the front-facing bolster surface forms a continuous front-facing leaning surface together with the front-facing rest surface.

12. The multi-position seat of claim 10, further comprising a removable cushion positionable within the cutout when the rest is in the retracted position.

13. A boat comprising: a control console including one or more controls for operating the boat; and a multi-position helm seat positioned proximate the control console, the multi-position helm seat including: a seat bottom including a primary seating surface positionable in a lower seating position; a bolster movably mounted relative to the seat bottom and including a bolster seating surface, the bolster being movable between a use position and an access position, wherein, in the use position, the bolster is located above the seat bottom and the bolster seating surface is higher than the primary seating surface in the lower seating position, and in the access position, the bolster is displaced relative to the use position to permit occupant access to the primary seating surface; and a rest movably mounted relative to the seat bottom and positionable in a leaning position and a retracted position, wherein, in the leaning position, the rest extends upwardly at an angle transverse to the seat bottom to support at least a portion of an occupant leaning against the rest, and in the retracted position, the rest is displaced relative to the leaning position to permit occupant access to at least one of the primary seating surface or the bolster seating surface.

14. The boat of claim 13, wherein the seat bottom includes a front portion and a rear portion, the front portion being located closer to the control console than the rear portion, the rest being positioned at the front portion of the seat bottom in the leaning position and at the rear portion of the seat bottom in the retracted position.

15. The boat of claim 14, further comprising: a helm including the control console and the multi-position helm seat; and a helm-adjacent seating area located aft of the helm, wherein, when the rest is in the leaning position, the rear portion of the seat bottom is exposed to provide a secondary seating surface of a rear-facing seat positioned within the helm-adjacent seating area.

16. The boat of claim 15, wherein the helm-adjacent seating area includes an L-shaped seat comprising an elongated seat portion and a transverse seat portion extending in a direction transverse to the elongated seat portion, the secondary seating surface being at least a part of the transverse seat portion.

17. The boat of claim 16, wherein the elongated seat portion extends in a fore-and-aft direction of the boat.

18. The boat of claim 17, wherein the boat includes a side hull with an interior surface, the elongated seat portion is positioned adjacent to the side hull, and a seat back for the elongated seat portion is formed on the interior surface of the side hull.

19. The boat of claim 13, further comprising a multi-position passenger seat positioned opposite the multi-position helm seat, the multi-position passenger seat including: a seat bottom including a primary seating surface positionable in a lower seating position; a bolster movably mounted relative to the seat bottom and including a bolster seating surface, the bolster being movable between a use position and an access position, wherein, in the use position, the bolster is located above the seat bottom and the bolster seating surface is higher than the primary seating surface in the lower seating position, and in the access position, the bolster is displaced relative to the use position to permit occupant access to the primary seating surface; and a rest movably mounted relative to the seat bottom and positionable in a leaning position and a retracted position, wherein, in the leaning position, the rest extends upwardly at an angle transverse to the seat bottom to support at least a portion of an occupant leaning against the rest, and in the retracted position, the rest is displaced relative to the leaning position to permit occupant access to at least one of the primary seating surface or the bolster seating surface.

20. The boat of claim 19, further comprising: a helm including the control console and the multi-position helm seat; and a helm-adjacent seating area located aft of the helm, wherein, when the rest of the multi-position passenger seat is in the leaning position, the rear portion of the seat bottom of the multi-position passenger seat is exposed to provide a secondary seating surface of a rear-facing passenger seat positioned within the helm-adjacent seating area.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a boat equipped with a plurality of multi-position seats, including a multi-position helm seat and a multi-position passenger seat.

[0010] FIG. 2 shows a primary seating area of the boat shown in FIG. 1.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a helm seating area.

[0012] FIG. 4 shows a helm of the boat in FIG. 1, including a control console and the multi-position helm seat.

[0013] FIGS. 5A and 5B show the multi-position helm seat in a lower seated configuration, with FIG. 5B showing a person seated in the multi-position helm seat in the lower seated configuration.

[0014] FIGS. 6A and 6B show the multi-position helm seat in a raised seated configuration, with FIG. 6B showing a person seated in the multi-position helm seat in the raised seated configuration.

[0015] FIGS. 7A and 7B show the multi-position helm seat in a standing configuration, with FIG. 7B showing a person resting on the multi-position helm seat in the standing configuration.

[0016] FIGS. 8A and 8B are perspective views of the multi-position helm seat with an insert cushion removed from the seat back. FIG. 8A shows the multi-position helm seat in the lower seated configuration, and FIG. 8B shows the multi-position helm seat in the raised seated configuration.

[0017] FIGS. 9A to 9D illustrate the process of converting the multi-position helm seat from the lower seated configuration to the standing configuration. FIG. 9A shows the multi-position helm seat in the lower seated configuration. FIG. 9B shows the multi-position helm seat in the raised seated configuration. FIG. 9C shows the seat back moving forward. FIG. 9D shows the multi-position helm seat in the standing configuration.

[0018] FIGS. 10A and 10B depict the multi-position helm seat with the seat back in a forward position and cushions omitted to show underlying structure.

[0019] FIGS. 11A and 11B are schematic illustrations of a sliding rail system used as a movement mechanism for moving the seat back. FIG. 11A is a top view, and FIG. 11B is a front view.

[0020] FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of an actuator-based movement mechanism for moving the seat back.

[0021] FIGS. 13A and 13B show the seat back and the sliding rail system mounted on a helm seat support structure. FIG. 13A shows the seat back in a rearward position, and FIG. 13B shows the seat back in the forward position.

[0022] FIG. 14 depicts a bolster of the multi-position helm seat in a use position with cushions omitted to show the underlying structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] As noted above, a boat operator may want to assume various different positions when operating the boat, such as seated or standing positions. The boat can include a helm, which includes a control console for operating the boat and a helm seat for the operator. The helm seat disclosed herein supports the operator in multiple different positions. More specifically, the helm seat can be configured in a plurality of configurations to accommodate the operator, including a lower seated position, a raised seated position, and a standing position. In the standing position, the helm seat provides a surface against which the operator can lean. The raised seated position and standing position can improve forward visibility, particularly when the bow of the boat is elevated, such as during acceleration, wake surfing, or planing.

[0024] In addition to improved visibility and comfort for the operator, space onboard a boat is often limited. The seating described herein can be configured for use in multiple orientations and positions, allowing a single seat to serve multiple functions within a compact footprint. Similar multi-position capabilities can also be applied to a passenger seat, enabling flexible use within a helm-adjacent seating area or other areas of the boat's layout.

[0025] FIG. 1 shows a boat 100 equipped with one or more multi-position seats 200. The boat 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes a pair of multi-position seats 200, specifically a multi-position helm seat 202 and a multi-position passenger seat 204. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the boat 100. The boat 100 includes a hull 110. The hull 110 includes a bow 112, a stern 114, a port side hull 116, and a starboard side hull 118. A longitudinal centerline 102 extends along the length of the boat 100 between the bow 112 and the stern 114, halfway between the port side hull 116 and the starboard side hull 118. The boat 100 further includes a deck 120 supported above the hull 110. The deck 120 includes a deck floor 122 that defines a walking surface for occupants.

[0026] The boat 100 includes an interior 130 extending between the bow 112 and the stern 114 and between the port side hull 116 and the starboard side hull 118. The boat 100 is depicted as a bowrider and includes a bow seating area 131 located in the bow 112 of the boat 100, a primary seating area 132 disposed aft of the bow seating area 131, and a stern seating area 136 located aft of the primary seating area 132. The primary seating area 132 and the bow seating area 131 can be separated by a windshield 104. The bow seating area 131 is located forward of the windshield 104, and the primary seating area 132 is located aft of the windshield 104. In FIG. 1, the bow seating area 131 and the primary seating area 132 are separated by a helm seating area 133. The helm seating area 133 can include the multi-position helm seat 202 and the multi-position passenger seat 204. The primary seating area 132 is adjacent to the helm seating area 133 and can also be referred to herein as a helm-adjacent seating area 134. The helm seating area 133 is located aft of the windshield 104.

[0027] A bow passageway 138 connects the helm seating area 133 with the bow seating area 131. In the boat 100 depicted in FIG. 1, the bow passageway 138 is located on the port side of the boat 100. A person can move between the primary seating area 132 and the bow seating area 131 by passing through the helm seating area 133 and along the bow passageway 138. In other embodiments, the bow passageway 138 can be located elsewhere on the boat 100, such as along the longitudinal centerline 102. Although described herein in reference to a bowrider, the multi-position seats 200 can be used with any suitable boat, including cuddies, center consoles, and cruisers, for example. The multi-position seats 200 can also be used with pontoon boats and multi-hull boats.

[0028] The bow seating area 131 includes one or more seats, such as a plurality of seats. Each seat includes a seat support structure 140. For these seats, the seat support structure 140 is formed as a raised portion of the deck 120, elevated relative to the deck floor 122. Each seat also includes a seat bottom 142 supported on the seat support structure 140. The seat bottom 142 includes a seating surface 144 for supporting a seated occupant. The seat bottom 142 can include a structural support member and a cushion disposed on the structural support member. The cushion can be formed of a soft but supportive material, such as foam, and may be covered with a marine-grade vinyl or other weather-resistant upholstery material. A seat back 146 is located above the seat support structure 140. The seat back 146 provides support for the back of a person seated on the seat bottom 142. In the depicted embodiment, the seat back 146 is formed integrally with inward-facing surfaces that define the bow seating area 131. These inward-facing surfaces can include surfaces connected to the port side hull 116 or the starboard side hull 118. This general seat structure, including the seat support structure 140, seat bottom 142, seating surface 144, and seat back 146, can also be used for other seats described herein. This discussion applies to other seats discussed below, unless the context indicates otherwise, or a seat is explicitly described differently.

[0029] The seats in the bow seating area 131 are arranged in a wraparound configuration. In the depicted embodiment, the layout forms a generally D-shaped seating arrangement. An aft-facing seat is located in the forward portion of the bow seating area 131, and a forward-facing seat is located in the aft portion of the bow seating area 131. Additional seats are located along the port side hull 116 and the starboard side hull 118 and can be used in various orientations, such as inboard-facing or as lounge-style seats. Other arrangements can also be used, such as a U-shaped wraparound configuration when the bow passageway 138 is located along the longitudinal centerline 102 of the boat 100.

[0030] A helm 150 for operating the boat 100 is located in the helm seating area 133. The helm 150 includes a control console 152 that houses various operational controls and instrumentation. In the depicted embodiment, the windshield 104 is mounted to the control console 152. The multi-position helm seat 202 is located at the helm 150 and provides seating for the boat operator. The helm 150, including the control console 152 and the multi-position helm seat 202, is located on the starboard side of the boat 100, but in other embodiments the helm 150 can be located in other locations. The multi-position passenger seat 204 is located on the opposite side of the boat 100 from the multi-position helm seat 202, which in FIG. 1 is the port side of the boat 100. The multi-position passenger seat 204 is separated from the multi-position helm seat 202. In this embodiment, a central passageway 154 separates the multi-position helm seat 202 from the multi-position passenger seat 204. The central passageway 154 is located between the multi-position helm seat 202 and the multi-position passenger seat 204. In the depicted embodiment, the central passageway 154 is aligned with the longitudinal centerline 102 of the boat 100, although other configurations are possible. The central passageway 154 connects the helm seating area 133 with the primary seating area 132.

[0031] The primary seating area 132 includes one or more seats that can use the same general seat structure described above, including the seat support structure 140, the seat bottom 142 with the seating surface 144, and the seat back 146. The primary seating area 132 includes a port side bench seat 162 and a starboard side bench seat 164. In the depicted embodiment, the seat backs for the port side bench seat 162 and the starboard side bench seat 164 are formed on interior surfaces of the port side hull 116 and the starboard side hull 118, respectively. The primary seating area 132 also includes a transverse bench seat 166, which extends in the transverse direction of the boat 100.

[0032] A bench seat can support more than one seated occupant side by side. The seat bottom of a bench seat has a width sufficient to allow two or more occupants to sit next to one another in a lateral or transverse direction. In some embodiments, the occupants can sit next to one another without being separated by fixed armrests or structural dividers. The seat bottom can be a continuous cushioned surface supported on a single seat support structure or multiple support elements. The seat back for a bench seat can also extend across the width of the seat bottom and may be contoured or uniformly shaped. Bench seats can optionally include armrests or handholds at their ends but remain uninterrupted along their seating surface to accommodate adjacent occupants. The seat bottom of a bench seat is generally longer in the side-to-side direction across its seating surface than it is deep from front to rear. The side-to-side direction is referred to herein as a width direction and the depth direction is referred to herein as a length direction. While the port side bench seat 162, the starboard side bench seat 164, and the transverse bench seat 166 are described as bench seats, these seats can be other types of seats.

[0033] The stern seating area 136 includes an aft-facing seat. The stern seating area 136 can have different seating configurations or even be omitted in some embodiments. In the boat 100 depicted in FIG. 1, the stern seating area 136 includes a sun pad seat 168 as the aft-facing seat. The sun pad seat 168 can be located adjacent to or aft of the transverse bench seat 166, and in some embodiments can share structural or spatial continuity with the transverse bench seat 166.

[0034] The sun pad seat 168 is located forward of a reboarding platform 170 disposed at the stern 114 of the boat 100. The reboarding platform 170 includes an upper surface 176 that is generally horizontal and supports one or more occupants standing, sitting, entering the water, or exiting the water. The reboarding platform 170 extends aft from the boat 100 and includes a forward edge 172 and an aft edge 174. The forward edge 172 is the forward-most edge of the reboarding platform 170 and the aft edge 174 is the aft-most edge, which may also be referred to as a trailing edge. In the depicted embodiment, the reboarding platform 170 is formed integrally with the hull 110 and located above the transom. In other embodiments, the reboarding platform 170 can be formed as a separate structure and attached to the transom by brackets or other support structures.

[0035] In the depicted embodiment, the sun pad seat 168 is located on the port side of the boat 100 within the stern seating area 136. The sun pad seat 168 is disposed aft of the transverse bench seat 166 and forward of the forward edge 172 of the reboarding platform 170. A stern passageway 139 is provided along the starboard side of the boat 100 to connect the primary seating area 132 with the reboarding platform 170. In this configuration, the sun pad seat 168 is bounded on one side by the stern passageway 139 and on the opposite side by the port side hull 116. In other embodiments, the stern passageway 139 may be located in a different position, such as along the longitudinal centerline 102 or on the port side of the boat 100, and the sun pad seat 168 can be repositioned accordingly.

[0036] FIG. 2 shows the helm seating area 133 and the helm-adjacent seating area 134, which is the primary seating area 132 in this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a forward-looking view of the helm seating area 133 and the primary seating area 132. As noted above, the primary seating area 132 includes one or more seats, including the port side bench seat 162, the starboard side bench seat 164, and the transverse bench seat 166. As described with reference to FIG. 1, each of these seats includes a seat bottom 142 supported on a seat support structure 140. The seat support structure 140 is elevated relative to the deck floor 122 and provides vertical support for the seat bottom 142. Each seat bottom 142 can include a structural member underlying a cushion, with the structural member supported by the upper surface of the seat support structure 140. In addition, each of the seats can include a seat back 146 extending upwardly from the seat bottom 142. The seat back 146 provides back support for an occupant seated on the seating surface, and can include a cushion supported on a structural frame, as previously described. This arrangement applies to the port side bench seat 162, the starboard side bench seat 164, and the transverse bench seat 166, as shown in FIG. 2.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, the starboard side bench seat 164 has an L-shaped configuration, with an elongated seat portion 164a and a transverse seat portion 164b extending in a direction transverse to the elongated seat portion 164a. The elongated seat portion 164a extends along the starboard side hull 118 in a fore-and-aft direction, with the seat back 146 of the elongated seat portion 164a formed on the interior surface of the starboard side hull 118. The transverse seat portion 164b is located at one end, such as the forward end, of the elongated seat portion 164a, and extends in a port-and-starboard direction. The transverse seat portion 164b includes, as will be described in more detail below, the multi-position helm seat 202. The multi-position helm seat 202 can be selectively positioned in a forward-facing configuration, in which an occupant is seated facing forward and can operate the boat at the control console 152, or in an aft-facing configuration, in which an occupant is seated on the transverse seat portion 164b and faces aft into the primary seating area 132. In this embodiment, the multi-position helm seat 202 is integrated with the starboard side bench seat 164 and forms a continuous seating surface in the aft-facing configuration with the surrounding portions of the transverse seat portion 164b.

[0038] On the port side of the boat, the port side bench seat 162 and the transverse bench seat 166 together form a second L-shaped seating arrangement within the primary seating area 132. The port side bench seat 162 extends along the port side hull 116 in a fore-and-aft direction, with the seat back 146 of the port side bench seat 162 formed on the interior surface of the port side hull 116. The transverse bench seat 166 is located at one end, such as an aft end, of the port side bench seat 162, and extends in a port-and-starboard direction across the aft portion of the helm-adjacent seating area 134. As described above with reference to FIG. 1, the seat back 146 of the transverse bench seat 166 also forms the seat back for an aft-facing rest of the sun pad seat 168 in this embodiment. The multi-position passenger seat 204 is located at the opposite end of the port side bench seat 162 from the transverse bench seat 166, which is the forward end of the port side bench seat 162 in this embodiment. The multi-position passenger seat 204 can be selectively positioned in a forward-facing configuration or in an aft-facing configuration, in which an occupant is seated on a rear-facing passenger seat and faces aft into the primary seating area 132. In this embodiment, the multi-position passenger seat 204 is integrated with the port side bench seat 162 and forms a continuous seating surface in the aft-facing configuration with the surrounding portions of the port side bench seat 162.

[0039] As noted above, the central passageway 154 extends between the multi-position helm seat 202 and the multi-position passenger seat 204 to provide access between the helm seating area 133 and the primary seating area 132. The multi-position passenger seat 204 and the multi-position helm seat 202 can be located directly opposite each other on the port side and the starboard side, respectively, of the boat 100. The central passageway 154 separates the multi-position helm seat 202 and the multi-position passenger seat 204. In the depicted embodiment, a forward portion of the stern passageway 139 is formed between the elongated seat portion 164a of the starboard side bench seat 164 and the transverse bench seat 166. Here, angled end portions of the starboard side bench seat 164 and the transverse bench seat 166 are located to oppose each other and form the forward portion of the stern passageway 139 therebetween.

[0040] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the helm seating area 133. As described above, the boat 100 in the illustrated embodiment includes two multi-position seats 200 located in the helm seating area 133. These include a multi-position helm seat 202 and a multi-position passenger seat 204, which can be constructed in a similar manner. The following discussion focuses on the multi-position helm seat 202, but the same features and configurations also apply to the multi-position passenger seat 204 unless noted otherwise. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the multi-position helm seat 202 and the multi-position passenger seat 204 is located in a forward-facing configuration. While shown here as forward-facing, the multi-position seats 200 can also be installed in other locations on the boat 100 and oriented in other directions.

[0041] The multi-position helm seat 202 includes a seat bottom 210, a bolster 220, and a rest 230. The seat bottom 210 is located on a helm seat support structure 240 that elevates the seat above the deck floor 122. The bolster 220 is located at a front portion 212 of the seat bottom 210 and is selectively movable relative to the seat bottom 210. The rest 230 can be a back rest 231. The back rest 231 extends upwardly from a rear portion 214 of the seat bottom 210 and provides support for an occupant when the multi-position helm seat 202 is in a seated configuration. The bolster 220 and the back rest 231 are each movable between multiple positions to accommodate different occupant orientations, as will be discussed in detail with reference to subsequent figures.

[0042] The helm seat support structure 240 is an example of a seat support structure 140, as discussed above. The seat support structure 140 can be an elevated portion of the deck 120 that is raised relative to the deck floor 122. In the illustrated embodiment, the helm seat support structure 240 is similarly elevated and includes an upper surface 242 (FIG. 13A) that supports the seat bottom 210 of the multi-position helm seat 202. As will be discussed further below, the upper surface 242 also supports the other portions of the multi-position helm seat 202. The multi-position passenger seat 204 is located on a passenger seat support structure 244, which can have a construction similar to the helm seat support structure 240.

[0043] FIG. 4 shows the helm 150, which is located in the helm seating area 133. As noted above, the helm 150 includes the control console 152 and the multi-position helm seat 202. The multi-position helm seat 202 is positioned relative to the control console 152 for an operator of the boat 100 to be seated or otherwise supported by the multi-position helm seat 202 and to comfortably operate the boat 100. The multi-position helm seat 202 can be located aft of the helm 150 and adjacent to the control console 152.

[0044] The control console 152 is used to support and enclose various controls for operating the boat 100. The control console 152 can include a steering wheel 182, one or more display screens 184, and one or more input devices 186. The control console 152 includes a dash 156. The steering wheel 182 can be mounted to the control console 152, such as to the dash 156. The steering wheel 182 can be used by the operator to steer the boat 100. The display screens 184 can also be mounted to the dash 156 and oriented to face the operator. The display screens 184 can display information related to boat operation, such as navigation, performance, and system status. In some embodiments, the control console 152 can include multiple display screens 184. A display screen 184 can be a touchscreen, and in such embodiments, the display screen 184 also functions as an input device 186. When the display screen 184 is a touchscreen, user-selectable options can be displayed directly on the screen and selected by the user through touch interaction. These user-selectable options can be presented as icons, virtual buttons, or similar graphical elements. When an icon is activated, the touchscreen generates a signal that is transmitted to a controller 190 for processing. Other input devices 186 mounted to the control console 152 can include static buttons or switches, which provide direct tactile control of various features or systems onboard the boat 100. These input devices 186 can also be coupled to the controller 190 to transmit signals corresponding to user selections.

[0045] The controller 190 is communicatively coupled to the display screens 184 and the input devices 186. The controller 190 can be a microprocessor-based device that includes a processor 192 and a memory 194. The processor 192 is configured to execute program instructions stored in the memory 194. The memory 194 can store executable instructions, system settings, operational parameters, and other data related to the operation of the boat 100. The controller 190 receives input signals from the display screens 184, when configured as touchscreens, and from other input devices 186, such as static buttons or switches. In response to the received input signals, the controller 190 can generate corresponding control signals for operating one or more systems or components of the boat 100. The controller 190 can also be configured to generate display content, such as user-selectable options, menus, or status indicators, and transmit that content to one or more of the display screens 184. The controller 190 can be mounted within the control console 152 or in another location onboard the boat 100, and communicatively coupled to the associated devices by wiring or other suitable communication links.

[0046] The control console 152 also includes one or more boat operation controls 180. The boat operation controls 180 can include various input components used by the operator to control navigation, propulsion, and onboard systems of the boat 100. The boat operation controls 180 can include, for example, the steering wheel 182, the display screens 184, the input devices 186, and a control lever 188. The control lever 188 can be used to control the throttle and to shift between drive states, such as forward, neutral, and reverse. The control lever 188 can be pivotable between a neutral position and a range of forward and reverse positions. When moved forward from the neutral position, the control lever 188 increases engine throttle and engages a forward gear to propel the boat 100 in a forward direction. When moved rearward from the neutral position, the control lever 188 engages a reverse gear and adjusts the throttle to propel the boat 100 in reverse. The control lever 188 can be mounted to the control console 152 or, in some embodiments, to an adjacent inboard sidewall of the hull 110. The boat operation controls 180 can also include other devices such as joysticks for thruster control, dials, rotary knobs, push buttons, toggles, sliders, or other manually actuated controls. The boat operation controls 180 can be communicatively coupled to the controller 190, which receives input signals from these devices and generates corresponding control signals for operating the relevant systems of the boat 100. Together, the controller 190 and the boat operation controls 180, including the steering wheel 182, display screens 184, input devices 186, and the control lever 188, enable the operator to manage and control the boat's movement, propulsion, and onboard systems.

[0047] The control console 152 can include a console support 158. The console support 158 can be a lower portion of the control console 152 that elevates and supports the dash 156 and the steering wheel 182. The console support 158 can be formed as an elevated portion of the deck 120, similar to the seat support structure 140 described above. The multi-position helm seat 202 can be located proximate to the control console 152 and spaced apart from the console support 158, such that an operator seated in the multi-position helm seat 202 can comfortably reach the steering wheel 182 and access the boat operation controls 180. The console support 158 and the helm seat support structure 240 are spaced apart with a section of the deck floor 122 extending between them. This portion of the deck floor 122 defines a foot surface 124 or footwell area for the operator while standing or seated to operate the boat 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the helm seat support structure 240 is spaced aft of the console support 158.

[0048] The multi-position helm seat 202 is positionable in a plurality of different configurations, including a lower seated configuration, a raised seated configuration, and a standing configuration. FIGS. 5A and 5B show the multi-position helm seat 202 in a lower seated configuration. FIG. 5B further shows an occupant 10, such as an operator, seated in the multi-position helm seat 202 in the lower seated configuration. When dimensions relative to the occupant 10 are given, the occupant 10 is an adult.

[0049] The seat bottom 210 of the multi-position helm seat 202 has a seating surface, which is referred to herein as a primary seating surface 216. The seat bottom 210 is supported by the helm seat support structure 240. The seat bottom 210 can be stationary, and the seat bottom 210 can rest or be affixed to the upper surface 242 (FIG. 13A) of the helm seat support structure 240. The seat bottom 210 includes a front portion 212 and a rear portion 214 taken relative to this seating configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the front portion 212 is a forward portion of the seat bottom 210 and the rear portion 214 is an aft portion of the seat bottom 210. The front portion 212 is located closer to the control console, while the rear portion 214 is located farther aft relative to the front portion 212, along the fore-and-aft direction of the boat. The front portion 212 and the rear portion 214 can each be separate cushions. The primary seating surface 216 extends over at least part of the upper surface of the seat bottom 210, such as the front portion 212 of the seat bottom 210.

[0050] The bolster 220 can be mounted adjacent to the front portion 212 of the seat bottom 210. The bolster 220 is movable relative to the seat bottom 210. The bolster 220 can be movable between a lowered, or access, position (shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B) and a use position (shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B). In this access position, the bolster 220 does not substantially obstruct the primary seating surface 216, and the occupant 10 can be seated directly on the primary seating surface 216. In the lowered or access position shown, the bolster 220 extends forward of the seat bottom 210, such as forward of the front portion 212. A back surface of the bolster 220 can abut a front surface of the seat bottom 210, for example, or otherwise have a minimal gap therebetween. The bolster 220 includes an extension surface 222. The extension surface 222 faces upward in the lowered or access position, and can be a seating surface. More specifically, the extension surface 222 forms an extended seating surface 206 with the primary seating surface 216. The bolster 220 can be positioned to form a continuous surface with the primary seating surface 216. For example, and as shown in FIG. 6B, the buttocks of the occupant 10 are supported by the primary seating surface 216, and the underside of the thighs is supported by the extension surface 222 of the bolster 220.

[0051] The back rest 231 is selectively movable between different positions to reconfigure the multi-position helm seat 202. The back rest 231 is positionable in a leaning position, as will be discussed further below with reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B, and a retracted position. The back rest 231 is shown in the retracted position in FIGS. 5A and 5B. The back rest 231 is located above the rear portion 214 of the seat bottom 210. The front portion 212 is exposed, permitting occupant access to the primary seating surface 216. The back rest 231 includes a front-facing surface 232 that faces the front of the seat bottom 210, which is a forward direction in the illustrated embodiment. The back rest 231 extends upward from the seat bottom 210. More specifically, the front-facing surface 232 extends upward from the primary seating surface 216. The front-facing surface 232 can extend upward at an angle, such as an obtuse angle, relative to the primary seating surface 216. With this orientation, the front-facing surface 232 can angled rearwardly. In the lower seated configuration, the back rest 231 and, more specifically, the front-facing surface 232, supports the occupant's lower back and at least a portion of the occupant's upper back. In the illustrated embodiment, the back rest 231 does not extend high enough to contact the occupant's head.

[0052] FIGS. 6A and 6B show the multi-position helm seat 202 in a raised seated configuration. In this configuration, the bolster 220 is in a raised, or use, position. The use position elevates a bolster seating surface 224 above the primary seating surface 216, allowing the occupant 10 to be seated at a higher elevation than in the lower seated configuration. As shown in FIG. 6B, the buttocks of the occupant 10 are supported on the bolster 220, such as on the bolster seating surface 224, while the feet of the occupant 10 remain on the foot surface 124. The raised seating configuration can be beneficial in conditions where increased forward visibility is desired, such as when the boat is operating at bow rise or in congested navigation environments.

[0053] In the raised seating configuration, the bolster 220 is located above the front portion 212 of the seat bottom 210. The bolster 220 can be supported by one or more bolster movement mechanisms 400 (FIG. 14) that permit the bolster 220 to be pivoted, rotated, or otherwise displaced from the lowered or access position shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B. The bolster movement mechanism 400 can support the bolster 220 in the raised use position without requiring the occupant 10 to hold it in place. The bolster seating surface 224 can be the same surface as the extension surface 222 described above, and as the bolster 220 is moved from the access position to the use position, the extension surface 222 remains facing upward to be the bolster seating surface 224 in the raised position. Other configurations can be used, however, such as where the extension surface 222 and the bolster seating surface 224 are different surfaces of the bolster 220, such as the bolster seating surface 224 being a front surface of the bolster 220 when the bolster 220 is in the lowered or access position.

[0054] In the raised seating configuration, the back rest 231 remains in the retracted position above the rear portion 214 of the seat bottom 210. The front-facing surface 232 of the back rest 231 allows the occupant 10 to sit upright with their back supported and their hips elevated. The back rest 231 can serve as a support for the lower back of the occupant 10 when the occupant is seated on the bolster 220.

[0055] FIGS. 7A and 7B show the multi-position helm seat 202 in a standing configuration. In this configuration, the back rest 231 is in the leaning position, and the occupant 10 is standing at the helm 150. More specifically, the occupant 10 can be standing on the foot surface 124. The back rest 231 is located at or near the front portion 212 of the seat bottom 210 and extends upwardly from the seat bottom 210. In the leaning position, the back rest 231 can be positioned above the front portion 212 of the seat bottom 210, having been displaced forward from the rear portion 214. As the occupant 10 stands on the foot surface 124, the occupant 10 can lean backward against the front-facing surface 232 of the back rest 231 to be supported by the multi-position helm seat 202. This configuration allows the occupant 10 to operate the boat in a more upright posture while receiving support.

[0056] In the leaning position, the rest 230 can extend upward from the front portion 212 to form a generally continuous leaning surface with the seat bottom 210. The front-facing surface 232 of the rest 230 can be substantially flush with or offset only slightly from the front plane defined by the forward-facing surface of the seat bottom 210. This alignment allows the seat bottom 210 and the front-facing surface 232 of the rest 230 to define a continuous structure for supporting the lower back and pelvis of a standing occupant. The lateral edges of the rest 230 can remain within the outer bounds of the seat bottom 210 in the leaning position, preserving clearance for adjacent seating or helm features.

[0057] The bolster 220 can remain in the raised or use position above the front portion 212 of the seat bottom 210 in the standing configuration. The bolster 220 includes a front-facing surface 226 in the raised position. In the illustrated embodiment, the front-facing surface 226 of the bolster 220 and the front-facing surface 232 of the rest 230 form a continuous front-facing leaning surface 208. The leaning surface provides support for the back of the occupant 10 while standing at the helm 150. When the bolster 220 is in the raised position, the occupant 10 can stand on the foot surface 124 with ample space between the multi-position helm seat 202 and the steering wheel 182. This spatial clearance allows for increased range of movement, ease of transitioning between seated and standing positions, and comfort during operation, particularly in the illustrated embodiment where the helm seat support structure 240 is integrally formed with the deck 120 and is non-movable.

[0058] FIGS. 8A and 8B are additional perspective views of the multi-position helm seat 202. FIG. 8A shows the multi-position helm seat 202 in the lower seated configuration and FIG. 8B shows the multi-position helm seat 202 in the raised seated configuration. To facilitate positioning of the back rest 231 and the bolster 220 in the standing configuration, the back rest 231 can include a cutout 252. The cutout 252 can be shaped and sized to accommodate at least a portion of the bolster 220 when the back rest 231 is in the leaning position and the bolster 220 is in the use position. The cutout 252 is a recessed area of the back rest 231.

[0059] A removable insert cushion 254 can be positioned within the cutout when the back rest 231 is in the retracted position to fill the cutout 252 and provide a continuous front-facing seat back surface for the occupant 10. The insert cushion 254 is shown installed within the cutout 252 in FIGS. 5A and 6A. The insert cushion 254 can be removed to convert the multi-position helm seat 202 from one of the seated configurations to the standing configuration, allowing the back rest 231 to move forward and surround the bolster 220, or at least a portion thereof, in the leaning position.

[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, the bolster 220 has a depth, measured in the front-to-rear direction of the seat, that is received at least partially within the cutout 252. The cutout 252 also has a depth, and the depth of the cutout 252 is sufficient to accommodate a majority of the front-to-rear length of the bolster 220. In the illustrated embodiment, to accommodate the positioning discussed above, the depth of the cutout 252 is sufficient to accommodate substantially all of the front-to-rear length of the bolster 220. As used herein, substantially all refers to at least 90% of the depth of the bolster 220 being received within the cutout 252, such that only a minor portion of the bolster 220, such as an edge or surface curvature, may project outward beyond an opening 256 of the cutout 252. The cutout 252 also has a height, and the height is sufficient to permit the bolster 220 to fit within the cutout 252 between an upper surface of the cutout 252 and the seat bottom 210.

[0061] The bolster 220 can be narrower in width than the seat bottom 210, the back rest 231, or both. This narrower width allows side portions 234 of the back rest 231 to extend downward along opposing lateral sides of the bolster 220 in the leaning position. The back rest 231 partially encircles the bolster 220. The bolster 220 has an overall three-dimensional form that is generally rectangular, such as a generally rectangular prism having opposing flat front and rear surfaces and rounded edges. The cutout 252 is shaped correspondingly to receive this rectangular form and allow the back rest 231 to surround the bolster 220 on multiple sides. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 256 of the cutout 252 is generally rectangular and elongated in shape, with a longer width dimension and shorter height. In alternative embodiments, the bolster 220 can have other three-dimensional geometries, such as curved, cylindrical, tapered, or trapezoidal forms, and the cutout 252 can be shaped to accommodate and receive the geometry of the bolster 220 accordingly.

[0062] FIGS. 9A to 9D illustrate the process of converting the multi-position helm seat 202 from the lower seated configuration to the standing configuration. FIG. 9A shows the multi-position helm seat 202 in the lower seated configuration. In this configuration, the back rest 231 is in the retracted position above the rear portion 214 of the seat bottom 210, and the bolster 220 is in the lowered or access position. The insert cushion 254 is positioned within the cutout 252, as shown in FIG. 5A. The insert cushion 254 can have a front-facing surface 258, and the insert cushion 254 can be positioned in the cutout 252 with the front-facing surface 258 of the insert cushion 254 forming a continuous surface with the front-facing surface 232 to support the back of the occupant 10. To begin the conversion process, the insert cushion 254 is removed from the cutout 252, clearing the space for movement of the back rest 231 and integration of the bolster 220. If the multi-position helm seat 202 is being converted from the lowered seating configuration to the raised seating configuration, the back rest 231 is stationary and the insert cushion 254 can remain in the cutout 252. To move from the lowered seating configuration to the raised seating configuration, the bolster 220 is moved from the lowered or access position shown in FIG. 9A to the raised or use position shown in FIG. 9B. The bolster 220 can be pivoted, for example in direction A in FIG. 9A.

[0063] FIG. 9B shows the multi-position helm seat 202 in the raised seated configuration. In this configuration, the bolster 220 is moved to the raised or use position above the front portion 212 of the seat bottom 210. The bolster seating surface 224 is elevated and oriented for use in either the raised seated configuration or the standing configuration. If converting the multi-position helm seat 202 from the lower seated configuration to the raised seated configuration, the process can stop here.

[0064] If converting the multi-position helm seat 202 to the standing configuration, the process continues with the step illustrated in FIG. 9C. The back rest 231 is moved from the retracted position to the leaning position. In the illustrated embodiment, the back rest 231 moves between the retracted position and the leaning position by sliding. As will be discussed in more detail below, the occupant 10 can release a securement mechanism 340 (FIG. 11B) using a handle 348 to allow the back rest 231 to freely move between the retracted position and the leaning position. FIG. 9C shows the back rest 231 being moved forward in direction B along the seat bottom 210, sliding from the rear portion 214 toward the front portion 212. During this movement, the cutout 252 advances forward and receives at least a portion of the bolster 220. FIG. 9D shows the multi-position helm seat 202 in the standing configuration. The back rest 231 is in the leaning position, and the cutout 252 surrounds the bolster 220. These steps can be reversed to convert the multi-position helm seat 202 from the standing configuration back to either the raised seated configuration or the lower seated configuration, depending on the desired arrangement and whether the bolster 220 and insert cushion 254 are repositioned accordingly.

[0065] When the back rest 231 is in the leaning position and the bolster 220 is in the raised position, the rear portion 214 of the seat bottom 210 is exposed and unobstructed. This exposed region defines a secondary seating surface 262. The secondary seating surface 262 can be used to form a rear-facing seat 260. With the multi-position helm seat 202 positioned as discussed herein, such as adjacent to the starboard side bench seat 164, the rear-facing seat 260 can be located within the helm-adjacent seating area 134. The rear-facing seat 260 allows the multi-position helm seat 202 to function in dual orientations, and contributes to increased flexibility in passenger layout, social seating arrangements, and efficient use of space within the interior 130. The rear-facing seat 260 shown in FIG. 9A is part of the multi-position helm seat 202, and can also be referred to herein as a rear-facing helm seat. Similarly, for the multi-position passenger seat 204, the rear-facing seat can be referred to herein as a rear-facing passenger seat.

[0066] An occupant can be seated on the rear-facing seat 260 facing aft, with their back supported by a rear-facing surface 236 of the back rest 231. More specifically, the back rest 231 includes a rear-facing surface 236 that supports the occupant's back in a manner similar to the front-facing surface 232. The rear-facing surface 236 can be located on an opposite side of the back rest 231 from the front-facing surface 232. The rear-facing surface 236 can have an orientation that mirrors the front-facing surface 232, such that the rear-facing surface 236 extends upward from the secondary seating surface 262 at an angle, such as an obtuse angle, relative to the secondary seating surface 262. With this orientation, the rear-facing surface 236 can be angled forwardly. The back rest 231 can have a triangular shape or a trapezoidal shape, as shown in FIG. 9D.

[0067] FIGS. 10A and 10B depict the multi-position helm seat 202 with the back rest 231 in the leaning position and cushions omitted to show the underlying structure. The back rest 231 can include a frame, which is referred to herein as a back rest frame 238. The back rest frame 238 can support one or more seat back cushions, such as a front cushion on which the front-facing surface 232 (FIG. 9D) is formed and a rear cushion on which the rear-facing surface 236 (FIG. 9D) is formed. In FIG. 10A, both of these cushions are omitted. The back rest frame 238 can be used to delineate, at least in part, the cutout 252.

[0068] FIG. 10B shows the multi-position helm seat 202 with the cushion forming the front portion 212 of the seat bottom 210 removed. The back rest 231 is movable between the retracted position and the leaning position by a back rest movement mechanism 300. The back rest 231 can be movable relative to the seat bottom 210, the helm seat support structure 240, or both using a variety of movement mechanisms. These mechanisms can include, for example, rail-and-slider systems, actuation assemblies, or other structural linkages that allow for front and rear translation of the back rest 231. In the embodiment shown, the back rest movement mechanism 300 comprises a sliding rail system 302.

[0069] FIGS. 11A and 11B are schematic illustrations of the sliding rail system 302. FIG. 11A is a top view, and FIG. 11B is a front view. The sliding rail system 302 can include one or more rails, such as a pair of rails 310. The pair of rails 310 can include a right rail 312 and a left rail 314 spaced apart from one another. The right rail 312 and the left rail 314 can be oriented generally parallel to each other. In the depicted embodiment, each of the right rail 312 and the left rail 314 is oriented in the direction of movement of the back rest 231, which corresponds to a front-and-rear direction of the multi-position helm seat 202 and a fore-and-aft direction on the boat. A corresponding slider is engaged with each rail. More specifically, the sliding rail system 302 includes a pair of sliders 320, including a right slider 322 that engages with the right rail 312, and a left slider 324 that engages with the left rail 314. As the sliders 320 move along the rails, they carry the back rest 231 between the retracted and extended positions in a guided and structurally supported manner.

[0070] The right slider 322 and the left slider 324 can be connected to each other by a cross member 326. The cross member 326 spans laterally between the sliders 320 and provides a rigid structural link to maintain alignment and coordinated movement. The sliders 320 can be fixed to opposing ends of the cross member 326. In some embodiments, the cross member 326 is a flat elongated member, such as a metal or composite plate, but other structural forms can be used. For example, the cross member 326 can also be formed as one or more rods or beams. The cross member 326 helps ensure that the sliders 322, 324 move in parallel along the left and right rails 312, 314 to reduce the risk of cocking or binding during movement. In certain embodiments, the cross member 326 can also provide a mounting location for additional features, such as a securement mechanism or the back rest frame 238, as can be seen in FIG. 10B.

[0071] FIG. 10B also illustrates various features of the sliding rail system 302. In FIG. 10B, the back rest frame 238 is attached to the cross member 326, such as by fasteners, but in other embodiments the back rest frame 238 and the cross member 326 can be integrally formed. Additionally, the cross member 326 and the back rest frame 238 are supported in an elevated position relative to the right slider 322 and the left slider 324. More specifically, one or more struts 330 support the back rest frame 238 and the cross member 326 in the elevated position. The struts 330 may be formed as brackets, molded risers, or other load-bearing members. In the depicted embodiment, a right strut 332 is attached, such as directly attached, to the right slider 322 and attached, such as directly attached, to the cross member 326 to support the cross member 326 in the elevated position relative to the right slider 322. Similarly, a left strut 334 is attached, such as directly attached, to the left slider 324 and attached, such as directly attached, to the cross member 326 to support the cross member 326 in the elevated position relative to the left slider 324. The right strut 332 is attached to a left end region of the cross member 326, and the left strut 334 is attached to a right end region of the cross member 326, with the cross member 326 spanning between the right strut 332 and the left strut 334.

[0072] Referring back to FIGS. 11A and 11B, each of the right rail 312 and the left rail 314 includes a slot 316 formed along the length of the rail (e.g., the right rail 312 or the left rail 314). More specifically, each of the right rail 312 and the left rail 314 includes rail body 317, and the slot 316 is formed therein. The slot 316 can have different shapes. In the depicted embodiment, the slot 316 has a T-shaped profile. Other shapes can be used for the slot and rail body, including rectangular, dovetail, or U-shaped profiles. One or more flanges 318 extend laterally from the rail body 317. These flanges 318 can be fastened, such as by screws, or otherwise secured to the upper surface 242 (FIG. 13A) of the helm seat support structure 240 (FIG. 13A). The corresponding slider (e.g., the right slider 322 or the left slider 324) includes a projection 328 shaped to fit within the slot 316. In the depicted embodiment, the projection 328 is shaped to correspond to the profile of the slot 316. The shape of the projection 328 can vary, and may include rectangular, rounded, or interlocking geometries depending on the slot configuration, such as having a T-shaped profile as depicted in FIGS. 11A and 11B. This engagement allows the slider (e.g., the right slider 322 or the left slider 324) to slide along the rail (e.g., the right rail 312 or the left rail 314) while being retained within the slot 316. The T-shaped slot and mating projection arrangement constrains vertical and lateral movement of the slider (e.g., the right slider 322 or the left slider 324) while permitting controlled linear translation along the fore-and-aft direction of the rail (e.g., the right rail 312 or the left rail 314).

[0073] The sliding rail system 302 can include a securement mechanism 340 for releasably holding the back rest 231 in one or more positions along its range of motion. The securement mechanism 340 can prevent unintended movement of the back rest 231 and can be used to secure the back rest 231 in the retracted position, the leaning position, or both. In the illustrated embodiment, the securement mechanism 340 includes a pin 342 that is biased by a biasing member 344 toward an engaged position. The pin 342 can be aligned with one or more openings 346 formed in the rail, such as the right rail 312 as depicted in FIGS. 11A and 11B. When the pin 342 is received within one of the openings 346, the slider, such as the right strut 332, is retained in position and movement is restricted. A handle 348 is operably connected to the pin 342 and configured to retract the pin 342 against the biasing member 344. When the handle 348 is lifted upwards (see FIG. 9C), the pin 342 disengages from the opening 346, allowing the slider to move along the rail. The user can release the handle 348 when the pin 342 aligns with another opening 346 to secure the back rest 231 in a different position.

[0074] The securement mechanism 340 shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B is implemented as a cable latch system. The pin 342 can be mounted on one of the sliders 320, such as the right slider 322, and connected to the handle 348 by a flexible cable. Raising the handle 348 retracts the cable and withdraws the pin 342 from the opening 346 against the force of the biasing member 344. When the handle is released, the biasing member 344 urges the pin 342 back into engagement with the next available opening 346. This configuration allows for remote or conveniently located actuation of the securement mechanism 340 without direct access to the pin 342 itself. For example, the handle 348 can be located on a side surface of the back rest 231 for operation during movement of the back rest 231.

[0075] Other types of securement mechanisms can be used in place of the illustrated cable latch system. For example, the retention element used to hold the back rest 231 in position can take the form of a detent, locking element, or engagement member. The corresponding receptacle or constraint structure can be referred to more generally as a registration feature, detent recess, or receiver. In the illustrated embodiment, the pin 342 functions as a locking element that engages with a receiver (i.e., the opening 346) to restrict motion. In other embodiments, spring-loaded levers, cam-lock assemblies, or mechanical detents can be used to provide similar engagement. Electromechanical variants, such as solenoid-actuated locking elements or actuators with integrated positional locking features, can also serve as securement mechanisms. These alternative designs allow for varying levels of user input, holding strength, and integration with onboard electronics.

[0076] FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment of the back rest movement mechanism 300. In this embodiment, the back rest movement mechanism 300 includes a sliding rail system 304 that is similar to the manually actuated sliding rail system 302 described above. The same reference numerals will be used for the same or similar features, and a detailed discussion of such features is omitted here. In this sliding rail system 304, instead of being moved manually, the back rest 231 is moved using an actuator 350. The actuator 350 can be a linear actuator, such as an electric linear actuator, a hydraulic actuator, or a pneumatic actuator. The actuator 350 includes an extendable and retractable ram 352 that is operatively connected at one end to the cross member 326. The actuator 350 is also connected at the other end to the helm seat support structure 240 (FIG. 13A), such as to the upper surface 242 (FIG. 13A). Actuation of the ram 352 drives the cross member 326 along the pair of rails 310, which in turn moves the sliders 320 and the back rest 231 between the retracted and leaning positions.

[0077] A user input device is provided in electrical communication with the actuator 350. In the depicted embodiment, the user input device is a rocker switch 354. The rocker switch 354 includes distinct controls for front and back movement of the back rest 231, such as by extension and retraction of the ram 352. In this embodiment, the securement mechanism 340 is not required, as the actuator 350 resists unintended movement. However, additional locking features or stops can optionally be provided for redundancy or safety.

[0078] FIGS. 13A and 13B show the back rest 231 and the sliding rail system 302 mounted on the helm seat support structure 240. FIG. 13A shows the back rest 231 in a rearward position, and FIG. 13B shows the back rest 231 in a forward position. The back rest movement mechanism 300 can be mounted on the upper surface 242 of the helm seat support structure 240. More specifically, the rails of the sliding rail system 302 can be secured directly to the upper surface 242. For example, the flanges 318 can be fastened, such as by screws, or otherwise secured to the upper surface 242 of the helm seat support structure 240. With the back rest frame 238 being supported in an elevated position by the struts 330, the back rest frame 238 is elevated relative to the helm seat support structure 240 to form a gap 336. More specifically, the gap 336 is formed between the cross member 326 and the upper surface 242 of the helm seat support structure 240. The gap 336 can be sized to allow the seat bottom 210 to be located between the back rest frame 238 and the helm seat support structure 240, and the back rest frame 238 can thus move over the upper surface of the seat bottom 210, such as the primary seating surface 216, the secondary seating surface 262, or both.

[0079] To accommodate the movement of the struts 330 during front-and-rear translation of the back rest 231, one or more back rest strut slots 360 can be formed in the seat bottom 210. The back rest strut slots 360 are sized and positioned to receive the struts 330 as they slide during movement of the back rest 231 between the retracted position and the leaning position. In the depicted embodiment, the right strut 332 passes through a right strut slot 362 formed on the left side of the seat bottom 210, and the left strut 334 passes through a corresponding left strut slot 364 formed on the right side. The back rest strut slots 360 are formed in the cushions of the seat bottom 210, which remain stationary relative to the helm seat support structure 240. As the back rest 231 moves, the struts 330 slide through the respective back rest strut slots 360 without disrupting the surrounding cushion structure. This configuration allows for smooth guided movement of the back rest 231 while preserving the visual and structural integrity of the seating surface. The back rest strut slots 360 can be elongated in the direction of strut travel or shaped to match the movement path of the struts 330. The back rest strut slots 360 can extend through both the front portion 212 and the rear portion 214 of the seat bottom 210.

[0080] The sliding rail system 304 can also include a slider stop 329 positioned to limit the travel of each slider (e.g., the right slider 322 or the left slider 324) at each end of the slot 316. In this embodiment, the slider stop 329 is a pin that projects through the rail body 317 and forms a mechanical stop near the front and rear of the slot 316. The slider (e.g., the right slider 322 or the left slider 324) abuts the slider stop 329 at the end of its travel to prevent the projection 328 from exiting the slot 316. Other types of stops can be used, such as molded end caps, welded plates, or bracketed stops.

[0081] FIG. 14 depicts the bolster 220 in a use position with cushions omitted to show the underlying structure, including a bolster movement mechanism 400. Features of the bolster movement mechanism 400 are also shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B. The bolster movement mechanism 400 is used to move the bolster 220 between the use position (the raised position) and the access position (the lowered position). In the depicted embodiment, the bolster movement mechanism 400 is a four-bar linkage system 402. The four-bar linkage system 402 includes a set of links 410, with a right pair of links 412 on the left side of the bolster 220 and a left pair of links 414 on the right side of the bolster 220. Each pair of links 412, 414 connects the bolster 220 with the helm seat support structure 240. More specifically, each link 410 is pivotably connected at a first end to a hinge bracket 420. The right pair of links 412 is pivotably connected to a right hinge bracket 422, and the left pair of links 414 is pivotably connected to a left hinge bracket 424. The hinge brackets 420 are mounted to the upper surface 242 of the helm seat support structure 240, such as by a fastener. Each link 410 is also pivotably connected at its second end to the underside of the bolster 220. These attachment points are collectively referred to as bolster-side link mounts 430, and include a right bolster mount 432 and a left bolster mount 434. The right pair of links 412 are pivotably connected to the right bolster mount 432, and the left pair of links 414 are pivotably connected to the left bolster mount 434. The parallel arrangement of the right and left link pairs 412, 414 maintains alignment and stability during movement. As the bolster 220 moves between the access position and the use position, the links 410 rotate about their pivot connections at both the hinge brackets 420 and the bolster-side link mounts 430. The four-bar linkage system 402 provides a controlled compound motion path, lifting and translating the bolster 220 in a rearward and upward direction into the use position (direction C in FIG. 13A), and in a forward and downward direction (opposite direction C) into the access position.

[0082] The four-bar linkage system 402 allows the bolster 220 to move between the use position and the access position while maintaining the upward-facing orientation of the top surface of the multi-position seats 200. In the depicted embodiment, the same top surface serves as both the extension surface 222 (in the access position) and the bolster seating surface 224 (in the use position). Accordingly, the bolster seating surface 224 (the extension surface 222) remains upward facing throughout the movement of the bolster 220.

[0083] To accommodate the motion of the links 410 during movement of the bolster 220, one or more bolster link slots 440 can be formed in the front portion 212 of the seat bottom 210. The bolster link slots 440 are sized and positioned to receive the links 410 as they rotate through their arc of motion between the use position and the access position. In the depicted embodiment, the right pair of links 412 pass through a right bolster link slot 442 formed on the left side of the front portion 212, and the left pair of links 414 pass through a corresponding left bolster link slot 444 formed on the right side. The bolster link slots 440 are formed in the cushion of the seat bottom 210, which remains fixed relative to the helm seat support structure 240. As the links 410 move, they slide through the respective bolster link slots 440 without disturbing the surrounding cushion. This arrangement allows the bolster 220 to move freely while maintaining the integrity and comfort of the seat bottom 210. The shape of the bolster link slots 440 can be elongated or curved to match the travel path of the links 410.

[0084] Although the bolster movement mechanism 400 is depicted as a four-bar linkage system 402, other movement mechanisms can be used to reposition the bolster 220 between the use and access positions. In some embodiments, the bolster 220 can be mounted to pivot about a single fixed axis, such as a hinge or bracket that allows the bolster to rotate between positions. In other embodiments, the bolster 220 can be mounted on a sliding track or linear guide system that allows it to translate rearward and upward into the use position and forward and downward into the access position. The bolster movement mechanism 400 may also include gas springs, dampers, or powered actuators to assist or control the motion. Additionally, the bolster 220 may be constructed such that the extension surface 222 and the bolster seating surface 224 are formed on different portions of the bolster 220, as noted above.

[0085] As used herein, the term bench seat refers to a seat having a horizontally extended seating surface capable of supporting more than one seated occupant side by side. A bench seat can include a continuous or segmented seat bottom, with or without fixed dividers or armrests. The seat bottom is generally longer across its width than it is deep from front to back.

[0086] As used herein, the term generally horizontal refers to a surface or plane that is substantially parallel to the deck floor of the boat, allowing for angular deviations up to 5 degrees to accommodate construction tolerances or ergonomic shaping.

[0087] As used herein, the term generally parallel refers to two surfaces or planes that are aligned to within 5 degrees of one another, regardless of absolute orientation.

[0088] As used herein, the term generally [shape] refers to a three-dimensional structure that approximates the named geometric form, including structures having rounded edges, chamfers, surface contours, or other minor variations that do not alter the overall geometric identity of the form. For example, a generally rectangular form may include fillets, edge radiusing, or slight bulging, while still maintaining an overall rectangular prism shape.

[0089] As used herein, the terms forward (or fore), aft, port, starboard, inboard, and outboard are used in their customary sense in the marine and boating arts. Forward refers to a direction toward the bow of the boat, and aft refers to a direction toward the stern. Port and starboard refer to the left and right sides of the boat, respectively, when facing forward. Inboard denotes a direction toward the longitudinal centerline of the boat, and outboard denotes a direction toward the sides or outer edges of the boat.

[0090] Although this invention has been described with respect to certain specific exemplary embodiments, various modifications, adaptations, and alternatives will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of this disclosure. It is, therefore, to be understood that this invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described. Thus, the exemplary embodiments of the invention should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive, and the scope of the invention is determined by any claims supportable by this disclosure and the equivalents of the embodiments and structures discussed herein, rather than by the foregoing description.