Remote-Controlled Inflatable Fender System and Methods

Abstract

An inflatable fender system for a marine vessel provides one or more inflatable bladders with air control valves and residing along a fender substrate, a stanchion, a housing containing the stanchion, and one or more tracks disposed along the hull of the marine vessel for guiding and supporting the fender substrate. The fender system includes an inflator for inflating the one or more inflatable bladders, and a control system for sequential operation. The fender substrate comprises an inner layer and an outer layer, with air pockets forming the bladders. The substrate is fabricated from a durable, waterproof material. The system is designed for efficient storage and deployment, accommodating various hull contours and vessel features. Methods of use are also provided.

Claims

1. An inflatable fender system for a marine vessel, the marine vessel having a hull, and the inflatable fender system comprising: at least one pneumatic pump; a first stanchion; a first upper guide track extending along at least a portion of the hull; and a first fender substrate wound around the first stanchion; and wherein the first fender substrate comprises: a first end secured to the first stanchion, and a second end opposite the first end; a plurality of bladders residing along the first fender substrate between the first end and the second end; a top side operatively secured to the first upper guide track and configured to be moved along the first upper guide track as the fender substrate is unwound from the first stanchion; an air channel configured to move a flow of air from the at least one pneumatic pump into each of the plurality of bladders after the first fender substrate has been unwound from its respective stanchion, thereby forming a first fender system; and a valve controlling the flow of air from the at least one pneumatic pump into the plurality of bladders, and to hold air pressure in the plurality of bladders along the first fender substrate.

2. The inflatable fender system of claim 1, wherein: the hull has a port side and a starboard side; the first fender system resides on the port side; and the inflatable fender system further comprises: a second stanchion; a second upper guide track extending along at least a portion of the starboard side of the hull; and a second fender substrate wound around the second stanchion; and wherein the second fender substrate comprises: a first end secured to the second stanchion, and a second end opposite the first end; a plurality of bladders residing along the second fender substrate between the first end and the second end; a top side operatively secured to the second upper guide track and configured to be moved along the second upper guide track as the fender substrate is unwound from the second stanchion; an air channel configured to move the flow of air from the at least one pneumatic pump into each of the plurality of bladders after the second fender substrate has been unwound from the second stanchion, thereby forming a second fender system; and a valve controlling the flow of air from the at least one pneumatic pump into the plurality of bladders, and to hold air pressure in the plurality of bladders along the second fender substrate.

3. The inflatable fender system of claim 2, further comprising: a first housing residing adjacent to the hull of the marine vessel on its port side; and a second housing residing adjacent to the hull of the marine vessel on its starboard side; and wherein: the first stanchion resides within the first housing; the second stanchion resides within the second housing; and the valve controlling the flow of air from the at least one pneumatic pump into the plurality of bladders for each of the first fender system and the second fender system is a check valve.

4. The inflatable fender system of claim 3, wherein: each of the first fender substrate and the second fender substrate further comprises at least one bleed valve for controlling air flow out of the plurality of bladders as the respective fender substrates are wound around the respective stanchions, with the at least one bleed valve comprising a normally-closed, remote-controlled valve, with the valve remaining closed during inflation of the one or more inflatable bladders, and opened during deflation of the one or more inflatable bladders; and the first upper guide track and the second upper guide track are configured to guide and support the respective first and second fender substrates, with each of the first fender substrate and the second fender substrate being hung from its respective first and second upper guide tracks.

5. The inflatable fender system of claim 4, wherein each of the first upper guide track and the second upper guide track is secured to its respective side of the hull of the marine vessel in a horizontal orientation.

6. The inflatable fender system of claim 2, wherein: the valve controlling the flow of air from the at least one pneumatic pump into the plurality of bladders along the first fender system is a first pump of the at least one pneumatic pump; and the valve controlling the flow of air from the at least one pneumatic pump into the plurality of bladders along the second fender system is a second pump of the at least one pneumatic pump.

7. The inflatable fender system of claim 2, further comprising: a first tether at the second end of the first fender substrate, and a second tether at the second end of the second fender substrate, wherein the first tether and the second tether enable an operator to separately pull each of the first tether and the second tether in order to move the first and second fender substrates along the respective first and second upper guide tracks; and a first crank arm connected to the first stanchion, and a second crank arm connected to the second stanchion, with the first crank arm and the second crank arm enabling the operator to manually wind the first fender substrate and the second fender substrate around the respective first and second stanchions.

8. The inflatable fender system of claim 3, further comprising: an opening along the first housing for receiving the second end of the first fender substrate as it is unwound along the first upper guide track; an opening along the second housing for receiving the second end of the second fender substrate as it is unwound along the second upper guide track; a bearing platform in the first housing for supporting the first stanchion, and enabling the first stanchion to rotate along a vertical axis; and a bearing platform in the second housing for supporting the second stanchion, and enabling the second stanchion to also rotate along a vertical axis.

9. The inflatable fender system of claim 2, wherein the plurality of bladders within each of the first fender substrate and the second fender substrate are spaced along the respective first fender substrate and the second fender substrate to optimize protection of the vessel hull when the fender system is deployed.

10. The inflatable fender system of claim 2, further comprising: a first pulley residing along the port side of the marine vessel; a second pulley residing along the starboard side of the marine vessel; a first rope placed along the first pulley and connected to the second end of the first fender substrate; and a second rope placed along the second pulley and connected to the second end of the second fender substrate; wherein the first rope and the second rope are configured to enable an electric drive motor to pull the respective first and second fender substrates along the respective first and second upper guide tracks for deploying the inflatable fender system.

11. The inflatable fender system of claim 2, further comprising: a first motor associated with the first stanchion, configured to mechanically rotate the first stanchion in order to retract the first fender substrate back into the first housing; and a second motor associated with the second stanchion, configured to mechanically rotate the second stanchion in order to retract the second fender substrate back into the second housing.

12. The inflatable fender system of claim 11, further comprising: a first electrical crawler motor associated with the first upper guide track, configured to mechanically pull the second end of the first fender substrate along the first upper guide track in order to unwind the first fender substrate out of the first housing; and a second electrical crawler motor associated with the second upper guide track, configured to mechanically pull the second end of the second fender substrate along the second upper guide track in order to unwind the second fender substrate out of the second housing.

13. The inflatable fender system of claim 12, further comprising: a control system for activating the first and second motor and the at least one pneumatic pump in sequence, wherein (i) activating the first and second motors causes the respective first fender substrate and the second fender substrate to be pulled along the first upper guide track and the second upper guide track, respectively, while (ii) activating the at least one pneumatic pump causes air to flow through the at least one valve and into the plurality of bladders.

14. The inflatable fender system of claim 13, further comprising: a first lower track extending along at least a portion of the port side of the hull and running below and parallel to the first upper guide track; a second lower guide track extending along at least a portion of the starboard side of the hull and running below and parallel to the second upper guide track; and wherein each of the first fender substrate and the second fender substrate further comprises: a bottom side operatively secured to a respective lower guide track and configured to be moved along the lower guide track as the fender substrate is unwound from its respective stanchion.

15. The inflatable fender system of claim 14, wherein: each of the first upper guide track, the first lower guide track, the second upper guide track, and the second lower guide track is adjustable to accommodate contours and configurations of the marine vessel; and each of the first lower track and the second lower track is disposed at a waterline of the marine vessel, and each of the first upper guide track and the second upper guide track is disposed at a rub rail of the marine vessel.

16. The inflatable fender system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of inflatable bladders further comprises a first layer of material comprising an inner layer, and a second layer of material comprising an outer layer, wherein an airtight air pocket is preserved between the inner layer and the outer layer.

17. The inflatable fender system of claim 16, wherein the inner and outer layers are fabricated from a durable, waterproof fabric selected from the group consisting of a coated textile, PVC fabric, PUL, TPU, polyester, nylon, vinyl, and combinations thereof.

18. The inflatable fender system of claim 1, wherein the air pocket created between the inner and outer layers within each of the plurality of inflatable bladders comprises an airtight and waterproof bladder sewn, glued, or welded into the fender substrates.

19. The inflatable fender system of claim 3, wherein the at least one pneumatic pump comprises: a first pneumatic pump residing in the first housing, and fluidically in communication with the plurality of inflatable bladders along the first fender substrate; and a second pneumatic pump residing in the second housing, and fluidically in communication with the plurality of inflatable bladders along the second fender substrate.

20. The inflatable fender system of claim 18, wherein: the air channel associated with the first fender substrate comprises a first air channel that feeds air into a first set of the plurality of inflatable bladders in the first fender substrate, and a second air channel that feeds air into a second set of the plurality of inflatable bladders in the first fender substrate; and the air channel associated with the second fender substrate comprises a first air channel that feeds air into a first set of the plurality of inflatable bladders in the second fender substrate, and a second air channel that feeds air into a second set of the plurality of inflatable bladders in the second fender substrate.

21. The inflatable fender system of claim 3, wherein: each of the first housing and the second housing is affixed to the hull of the marine vessel at a location forward a widest point of the marine vessel; and the inflatable fender system is deployed from forward to aft of the marine vessel, and is retracted from aft to forward of the marine vessel.

22. A method of deploying an inflatable fender system for a marine vessel, with the marine vessel comprising a hull having a port side and a starboard side, and the method comprising: providing a first inflatable fender system for the marine vessel, the first inflatable fender system comprising: a first pneumatic pump residing on the port side of the marine vessel; a first stanchion also residing on the port side of the marine vessel; a first upper guide track extending along at least a portion of the port side of the hull; a first fender substrate wound around the first stanchion, wherein the first fender substrate comprises a plurality of inflatable bladders; and an air channel configured to move a flow of air from the first pneumatic pump into each of the plurality of inflatable bladders after the first fender substrate has been unwound from the first stanchion, thereby forming a first fender system; a check valve controlling the flow of air from the first pneumatic pump into the plurality of bladders, and to hold air pressure in the plurality of bladders along the first fender substrate; and a bleed valve for controlling air flow out of the plurality of bladders as the first fender substrate is wound around the first stanchion, with the bleed valve comprising a normally-closed valve that is configured to be opened during deflation of the plurality of inflatable bladders; pulling the first fender substrate from the first housing along the first upper guide track; and activating the first pneumatic pump in order to inflate each of the bladders along the first fender substrate thereby deploying the first inflatable fender system.

23. The method of deploying the inflatable fender system of claim 22, wherein the first fender substrate comprises: a first end secured to the first stanchion, and a second end opposite the first end; a top side operatively secured to the first upper guide track and configured to be moved along the first upper guide track as the first fender substrate is unwound from the first stanchion.

24. The method of deploying the inflatable fender system of claim 23, wherein: the marine vessel comprises a first housing along the port side; and the first pneumatic pump and the first stanchion reside within the first housing.

25. The method of deploying the inflatable fender system of claim 23, further comprising: providing a second inflatable fender system for the marine vessel, the second inflatable fender system comprising: a second pneumatic pump residing on the starboard side of the marine vessel; a second stanchion also residing on the starboard side of the marine vessel; a second upper guide track extending along at least a portion of the starboard side of the hull; a second fender substrate wound around the second stanchion, wherein the second fender substrate comprises a plurality of inflatable bladders; and an air channel configured to move a flow of air from the second pneumatic pump into each of the plurality of inflatable bladders after the second fender substrate has been unwound from the second stanchion, thereby forming a second fender system; a check valve controlling the flow of air from the second pneumatic pump into the plurality of bladders, and to hold air pressure in the plurality of bladders along the second fender substrate; and a bleed valve for controlling air flow out of the plurality of bladders as the second fender substrate is wound around the second stanchion, with the bleed valve comprising a normally-closed valve that is configured to be opened during deflation of the plurality of inflatable bladders; pulling the second fender substrate from the second housing along the second upper guide track; and activating the second pneumatic pump in order to inflate each of the bladders along the second fender substrate thereby deploying the second inflatable fender system.

26. The method of deploying the inflatable fender system of claim 25, wherein the first fender substrate comprises: a first end secured to the second stanchion, and a second end opposite the first end; a top side operatively secured to the second upper guide track and configured to be moved along the second upper guide track as the second fender substrate is unwound from the second stanchion.

27. The method of deploying the inflatable fender system of claim 26, wherein: the marine vessel comprises a second housing along the starboard side; and the second pneumatic pump and the second stanchion reside within the second housing.

28. The method of deploying the inflatable fender system of claim 26, wherein: the first pneumatic pump acts as the check valve for the first inflatable bladder system; the second pneumatic pump acts as the check valve for the second inflatable bladder system.

29. The method of deploying the inflatable fender system of claim 27, wherein: the first inflatable fender system further comprises an opening along the first housing for receiving the second end of the first fender substrate as it is unwound along the first upper guide track; the second inflatable fender system further comprises an opening along the second housing for receiving the second end of the second fender substrate as it is unwound along the second upper guide track; the first housing comprises a bearing platform in for supporting the first stanchion, and enabling the first stanchion to rotate along a vertical axis; and second housing comprises a bearing platform for supporting the second stanchion, and enabling the second stanchion to also rotate along a vertical axis.

30. The method of deploying the inflatable fender system of claim 29, wherein: each of the first housing and the second housing is rotatable from a horizontal position, representing a sailing position, to a vertical position, representing a docking position; and the method further comprises rotating each of the first housing and the second housing before unwinding the respective first and second fender substrates.

31. The method of deploying the inflatable fender system of claim 26, wherein the inflatable fender system further comprises: a first tether at the second end of the first fender substrate, and a second tether at the second end of the second fender substrate; and a first crank arm connected to the first stanchion, and a second crank arm connected to the second stanchion; and wherein the method further comprises: pulling each of the first tether and the second tether in order to move the fender substrates along the respective first and second upper guide tracks; and rotating each of the first crank arm and the second crank arm in order to manually rewind the first fender substrate and the second fender substrate around the respective stanchions.

32. The method of deploying the inflatable fender system of claim 26, wherein the plurality of bladders within each of the first fender substrate and the second fender substrate are spaced along the respective first fender substrate and the second fender substrate to optimize protection of the vessel hull when the fender system is deployed.

33. The method of deploying the inflatable fender system of claim 26, wherein each of the first upper guide track and the second upper guide track is secured to its respective side of the hull of the marine vessel in a horizontal orientation, allowing the first and second inflatable fender systems to be deployed horizontally along the hull of the marine vessel.

34. The method of deploying the inflatable fender system of claim 26, wherein the inflatable fender system further comprises: a first motor associated with the first stanchion; and a second motor associated with the second stanchion; and wherein the method further comprises: activating the first motor in order to rotate the first stanchion, thereby retracting the first fender substrate back into the first housing; and activating the second motor in order to rotate the second stanchion, thereby retracting the second fender substrate back into the second housing.

35. The method of deploying the inflatable fender system of claim 34, wherein the inflatable fender system further comprises: a first electrical crawler motor associated with the first upper guide track; and a second electrical crawler motor associated with the second upper guide track; and wherein the method further comprises: activating the first electric crawler motor in order to pull the second end of the first fender substrate along the first upper guide track in order to unwind the first fender substrate out of the first housing; and activating the second electric crawler motor in order to pull the second end of the second fender substrate along the second upper guide track in order to unwind the second fender substrate out of the second housing.

36. The method of deploying the inflatable fender system of claim 35, wherein the inflatable fender system further comprises: a control system for activating the first and second motors and the first and second pneumatic pumps in sequence, wherein (i) activating the first and second motors causes the respective first fender substrate and the second fender substrate to be pulled along the first upper guide track and the second upper guide track, respectively, while (ii) activating the first and second pneumatic pumps causes air to flow through the valve and into the plurality of bladders.

37. The method of deploying the inflatable fender system of claim 26, further comprising: remotely opening the bleed valve contained within the first fender substrate to remove air contained within the plurality of inflatable bladders of the first fender substrate; remotely opening the bleed valve contained within the second fender substrate to remove air contained within the plurality of inflatable bladders of the second fender substrate; rewinding the first fender substrate around the first stanchion; and rewinding the second fender substrate around the second stanchion.

38. An inflatable fender for a marine vessel, comprising: a fender substrate fabricated from a water-resistant material, wherein the fender substrate comprises a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a top edge, and a bottom edge; an air channel extending along the fender substrate configured to receive pressurized air; a check valve configured to receive the pressurized air; a bleed valve configured to release the pressurized air; and a plurality of bladders disposed along the fender substrate, with each of the bladders being in fluid communication with the air channel; and wherein: the first end of the fender substrate is configured to be connected to a rotatable stanchion on the marine vessel; the fender substrate is configured to be wound around the stanchion in a roll when the stanchion is rotated in a first direction; and the fender substrate is configured to be unfurled from the stanchion and to extend along a hull of the marine vessel when the stanchion is rotated in a second direction opposite the first direction; thereby forming an inflatable fender when the plurality of bladders are inflated.

39. The inflatable fender for the marine vessel of claim 38, wherein: at least three of the plurality of bladders are equi-distantly spaced along the fender substrate; (i) the bladders comprise two layers of airtight material along the fender substrate; (ii) the bladders reside inside of a non-airtight fabric; or (iii) a combination thereof; the check valve resides proximate a first end of the fender substrate; and the bleed valve resides proximate a second end of the fender substrate, opposite the first end.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0084] So that the manner in which the present inventions can be better understood, certain illustrations, charts, and/or flow charts are appended hereto. It is to be noted, however, that the drawings illustrate only selected embodiments of the inventions and are therefore not to be considered limiting of scope, for the inventions may admit to other equally effective embodiments and applications.

[0085] FIG. 1 shows a right side (or starboard side) elevation view of an illustrative marine vessel. The marine vessel is outfitted with an inflatable fender system of the present invention, in one embodiment.

[0086] FIGS. 2A through 2F present a right side (or starboard side) elevation view of another illustrative marine vessel. In these views, an inflatable fender system of the present disclosure is progressively deployed.

[0087] FIG. 2A shows the marine vessel outfitted with an inflatable fender system of the present disclosure, in a second embodiment. In this view, the housing is shown in a transport position.

[0088] FIG. 2B is another side view of the marine vessel of FIG. 2A. Here, the housing is being rotated.

[0089] FIG. 2C is another side view of the marine vessel of FIG. 2A. Here, the housing has rotated 90 into its docking position.

[0090] FIG. 2D is another side view of the marine vessel of FIG. 2A. Here, an electronic crawler motor is pulling the fender substrate out of the housing. The electronic crawler motor moves along an upper guide track.

[0091] FIG. 2E is another side view of the marine vessel of FIG. 2A. Here the fender substrate continues to be pulled along the hull of the vessel according to Arrow U. The guide track is in a horizontal orientation, and supports the fender substrate.

[0092] FIG. 2F is another side view of the marine vessel of FIG. 2A. Here the fender substrate has been fully deployed along the hull of the vessel.

[0093] FIG. 2G shows the inflatable fender system being rewound back into the housing according to Arrow R.

[0094] FIG. 3 shows a right side (or starboard side) elevation view of the marine vessel of FIG. 1. Here, the marine vessel is outfitted with an inflatable fender system of the present invention, in a third embodiment.

[0095] FIG. 4 shows a right side (or starboard side) elevation view of the marine vessel of FIG. 1. Here, the marine vessel is outfitted with an inflatable fender system of the present invention, in a fourth embodiment. In the fourth embodiment, the inflatable fender system has an upper track supporting an upper fender substrate, and a lower track supporting a lower fender substrate. In this way, two levels of inflatable bladders are provided.

[0096] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a portion of an inflatable fender substrate, connected to a housing. The substrate has an inner layer and an outer layer. In this instance, individual bladders alternate along an interior surface and an exterior surface of the fender substrate.

[0097] FIGS. 6A through 6D present an enlarged portion of a fender substrate. A braided rope is shown woven or otherwise run through a top side of the fender substrate for support.

[0098] FIG. 6A is perspective view of the fender substrate residing between an upper guide track and a lower guide track. The inflatable fender system utilizes an electric crawler to advance the fender substrate and its individual bladders along the hull of a vessel.

[0099] FIG. 6B shows a portion of a fender substrate, configured to open by moving laterally relative to the hull of the vessel. This is referred to as a cut-out.

[0100] FIG. 6C shows a portion of a fender substrate, having an illustrative bleed valve.

[0101] FIG. 6D shows a portion of a fender substrate, with bladder lines extending from the air channel.

[0102] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of a stanchion, or roller. In this view, the fender substrate has been rewound around the stanchion.

[0103] FIG. 8 provides a flowchart showing steps for method of operating an inflatable fender system of the present invention, in one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SELECTED SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

[0104] The novel features characteristic of the embodiments of the present application are set forth in the appended claims. However, the embodiments themselves and further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0105] Wherever the phrase for example, such as, including, and the like are used herein, the phrase and without limitation is understood to follow unless explicitly stated otherwise. Similarly an example, exemplary, and the like are understood to be non-limiting.

[0106] The term substantially allows for deviations from the descriptor that do not negatively impact the intended purpose. Descriptive terms are understood to be modified by the term substantially even if the word substantially is not explicitly recited.

[0107] The term about, when used in connection with a numerical value, refers to the actual given value, and to the approximation to such given value that would reasonably be inferred by one of ordinary skill in the art, including approximations due to the experimental and or measurement conditions for such given value.

[0108] For purposes of this disclosure, the term water-resistant refers to a material, component, or device that prevents ingress of water to a degree ensuring proper functionality under specified conditions, such as duration, pressure, temperature, and water type. Additionally, for the purposes of this disclosure, the term waterproof refers to a material, component, or device that substantially or completely prevents ingress of air and water under specified conditions, such as duration, pressure, temperature, and water type.

[0109] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words comprise, comprising, and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of including but not limited to.

[0110] FIG. 1 shows a right side (or starboard side) elevation view of an illustrative marine vessel 105. The marine vessel 105 has an elongated hull 107 that is designed to float in a body of water such as an ocean or a large lake (not shown). The hull 107 displaces water in accordance with Archimedes principle, allowing the vessel 105 to be buoyant. The hull 107 may be referred to as a main body or structural frame of the vessel 105.

[0111] The marine vessel 105 includes a front end (or bow) 109. The bow 109 is sometimes referred to as the forward portion of the vessel 105. The marine vessel 105 also includes a rear end (or stern) 111. The stern 111 is sometimes referred to as the rear or aft portion of the vessel 105.

[0112] The vessel 105 also includes a series of windows 102 as well as one or more deck levels. The vessel 105 will also have a left side (the port side of the vessel), a right side (the starboard side of the vessel), and walls (or bulkheads). Point W shown in FIG. 1 represents a point along the hull 107 where the vessel 105 is at its widest point. The overall width of the vessel 105 is often referred to as the beam of the vessel.

[0113] The shape, size, and configuration of the hull 107 of the boat 105 may vary depending on the type and purpose of the vessel 105. Additionally, for purposes of this disclosure, the term vessel may be used interchangeably with the terms boat or marine vessel, and may refer to any type of commercial, military, recreational, special-purpose, utility, inland, coastal, or ocean-going vessel. Non-limiting examples of such vessels include cruise ships, yachts, super yachts, offshore fishing boats, sailboats, pontoons, catamarans, and speedboats.

[0114] Regardless of its configuration, it is desirable to protect the hull 107 of the vessel 105, particularly when the vessel 105 is docked in a port or marina. Docking the vessel 105 may include placing the vessel 105 in a slip or at a point of mooring. To accomplish protection for the hull 107 of the vessel 105, an inflatable fender system 100 is provided.

[0115] The inflatable fender system 100 first comprises a fender substrate 110. The fender substrate 110 is fabricated from a durable, waterproof material. Suitable examples include coated textile, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) fabric, polyurethane laminate (PUL), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyester coated with PVC, nylon, vinyl, and combinations thereof.

[0116] The fender substrate 110 may have two layers of material, comprising an inner layer and out outer layer. Air pockets are selectively located between the inner layer and the outer layer, forming inflatable bladders 115. The bladders 115 may be formed by selectively sewing, glueing, or welding the inner and outer layers together. Thus, the fender substrate 110 is essentially support material for the bladders 115. In one arrangement, the bladders comprise (i) two layers of airtight material along the fender substrate; (ii) bladders placed inside of a non-airtight fabric; or (iii) a combination thereof.

[0117] The bladders 115 seen in FIG. 1 have been spaced apart in equi-distant relation. Of interest, the substrate 110 and supported bladders 115 traverse the widest point W of the hull 107. The ensures best protection for the vessel 105. In one aspect, the location of the bladders 115 are spaced apart in such a manner as to optimize protection against collisions with other vessels or the point of docking. In one aspect, at least three of the bladders 115 are equi-distantly spaced.

[0118] The inflatable bladder system 100 includes a pump 150. The pump 150 is preferably a pneumatic pump designed to inject compressed air into the respective bladders 115. The pneumatic pump 150 is configured to selectively inflate each of the inflatable bladders 115 to a suitable pressure. The pump 150 may be storable within a housing 125 along the hull, or may comprise an external pump affixable to the inflatable fender system 100.

[0119] A desired pressure provided by the pump and contained within each of the one or more inflatable bladders must be of a suitable pressure to both maintain the integrity of each of the one or more bladders and provide adequate cushioning and protection such that the bladders do not collapse when the vessel contacts another object. In one aspect, the bladders 115 are kept at 0.5 to 3.5 psi.

[0120] An air channel 152 extends from the pump 150 and along the substrate 110. A check valve 120 resides along the air channel 152. The check valve 120 allows air to move from the pump 150 to the bladders 115. Preferably, the check valve 120 opens at 4 psi, and holds pressure in the bladders 115 while and after they are inflated. As an alternative, the check valve 120 may be, a ball valve, a butterfly valve, or other suitable flow control valve. Alternatively, the valve 120 is a solenoid valve operated by a controller. In this instance, the valve 120 may be remotely controlled.

[0121] In one aspect, each bladder 115 has its own separate isolation valve 154. The isolation valves 154 may also be solenoid valves that are remotely controlled, such as through a control system, allowing air to be selectively moved into or out of individual bladders 115. Thus, for example, if one bladder 115 is damaged or punctured and can no longer hold air pressure, the isolation valve 154 associated with that bladder 115 can be closed. This prevents fluid communication with the air channel 152. If all isolation valves 154 are opened at once, then all bladders 115 can be inflated simultaneously.

[0122] The fender substrate 110 has a first end 112 and a second end 114. The fender substrate 110 additionally has a top side 116 and a bottom side 118. It can be seen that the first end 112 is connected to a stanchion 130. The stanchion 130 serves as a roller mechanism, and is supported by a bearing surface 132. In one aspect, the bearing surface is an electric drive motor designed to impart a rotational force relative to the hull 107.

[0123] In a further embodiment, the inflatable fender system 100 may further comprise a first bearing disposed on a bottom end of the stanchion 130, and a second bearing disposed on a top end of the stanchion 130. The first and second bearings ensure proper rotation and alignment of the stanchion 130 during deployment and retraction of the inflatable fender system 100.

[0124] The stanchion 130 functions in deployment, retraction, and storage of the inflatable fender system. During deployment, the stanchion 130 rotates in a first direction to unwind the fender substrate 110. During retraction, the stanchion 130 rotates in a second direction to wind (or rewind) the fender substrate 110. Beneficially, the stanchion 130 embodies a circumference and a diameter suitable for fitting within a housing 125 when the fender substrate 110 is in a deployed state, and also when in a retracted state. The stanchion 130 and the coiled fender substrate 110 are of suitable size to be storable within the housing 125 affixed to the hull 107. The fender substrate 110 collapses flat as it is rewound around the stanchion 130 and as air is released from the bleed valve (shown at 657 in FIG. 6C).

[0125] The fender substrate 110 remains affixed to the stanchion 130 when deployed. For the purposes of this disclosure, rotating in a first direction may include rotation in either a clockwise or a counterclockwise direction. Additionally, rotating in a second direction may include rotation in either the clockwise or counterclockwise direction, provided that rotation in the second direction is an opposite direction of rotation when compared to rotation in the first direction.

[0126] The top side 116 of the substrate 110 is supported by an upper guide track 135. Connection supports 165 connect the substrate 110 to the upper track 135. The connection supports 165 may be wheels or an electro-mechanical dolly, allowing the second end 114 of the substrate to be unfurled from the stanchion 130.

[0127] The upper guide track 135 is connected to and supported by the hull 107 of the vessel 105 by means of connectors 136. Preferably, the connectors 136 secure the upper track 135 in a horizontal orientation. In one aspect, the connectors 136 secure the upper track 135 to the hull 107 along the so-called rub-line of the vessel 105.

[0128] Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that boat hulls are almost never planar; rather, they have a concave curvature. Accordingly, the upper guide track 135 will be fabricated from a flexible, or compliant material, such as extruded aluminum or thermoplastic that can be bent to conform to the lines and curvature of the hull 107. The guide track 135 may be installed in ten foot lengths and may have short lateral relief cuts to aid in flexibility. The upper guide track may be installed on both the port side and the starboard side of the vessel 105.

[0129] In one aspect, the fender substrate 110 is deployed and retracted manually. During deployment, the second end 114 of the substrate is pulled by one or more crew members using a tether 140. The tether 140 is of suitable length to be accessible by the crewman located on the vessel 105 and by a dockworker located a distance from the vessel 105. The tether 140 permits the operator to deploy the inflatable fender system 100 by pulling the fender substrate 110 across the upper guide track 135. Stated another way, applying tension to the tether 140 causes the substrate 110 to unwind from the stanchion 130.

[0130] The top side 116 of the substrate 110 moves along the upper track 135 until the substrate 110 is fully unwound. At that point, the substrate 110 hangs from the upper track 135 gravitationally.

[0131] It is observed that the pump 150, the stanchion 130, and the bearing surface 132 reside together within the housing 125. The housing 125 serves to protect components of the inflatable fender system 100 and is affixed to the hull 107 of the vessel 105, preferably within the hull 107. Affixing the housing 125 to the hull 107 may be accomplished in several ways including by using removable fasteners, screws, bolts, and other suitable means for either removably affixing or permanently affixing the housing to the hull of the vessel 105. Connectors 160 are schematically shown for this purpose.

[0132] In the arrangement of FIG. 1, the housing 125 is affixed to the hull 107 of the marine vessel 105 at a location forward the widest point W of the marine vessel 105. In addition, the housing 125 is affixed to the hull 107 of the vessel 105 aft of an anchor and a hawsepipe of the vessel 105.

[0133] A window or opening 127 is formed in the housing 125, allowing the substrate 110 to traverse into and out of the housing 125.

[0134] As noted, the bearing surface 132 may represent an electric motor. The motor turns, or rotates the stanchion 130 relative to the hull 107 in order to unwind the substrate 110. This is in addition to, or in alternative to, the use of the tether 140 to move the second end 114 of the substrate 110 along the upper track 135. The direction of rotation is reversed when it is time to retract the substrate 110 back into the housing 125.

[0135] In one aspect, a crank arm, sometimes referred to as a tiller handle, 134 may be provided for the stanchion 130. The crank arm 134 allows a crew member or dock worker to rotate the stanchion 130 manually over the bearing surface 132. The crank arm 134 may rotated in a first direction to unfurl the substrate 110, and then rotated back in a second direction to wind the substrate 110 back through the window 127 and onto the stanchion 130. Optionally, an extender bar (not shown) is used to connect a tiller handle to a bore of the stanchion 130.

[0136] The crank arm 134 can be employed in lieu of an electric drive motor in the event of a power failure at the marina.

[0137] The inflatable fender system 100 is intended to protect the hull 107 of the marine vessel 105 in docking, maneuvering, mooring, and anchoring operations from collision, damage, and impact. Such collisions, damages, and impacts may arise from contact with other vessels, docks, quays, berths, and buoys.

[0138] FIG. 1 shows only one side of the marine vessel 105. It is understood that an identical fender inflation system 100 may be placed on the opposite side (the port side) of the vessel 105. In this instance, a separate (or second) housing will be placed on the other side of the vessel 105, with the second housing holding a second stanchion and a second fender substrate 110. The second fender substrate 110 will have its own upper track 135 and its own inflatable bladders 115.

[0139] FIGS. 2A through 2F present a right side (or starboard side) elevation view of another illustrative marine vessel 205. As with marine vessel 105 of FIG. 1, the marine vessel 205 has a hull 107. The vessel 205 also has a bow 109, a stern 111, and one or more decks 121. The vessel 205 also provides a plurality of windows, or portals, 102 along the hull 107. Other features seen in FIGS. 2A through 2F include a so-called hardtop 123 and a control center, or bridge 208.

[0140] In the views of FIGS. 2A through 2F, an inflatable fender system 200 is progressively deployed. The fender system 200 includes a rotatable housing 225. In FIG. 2A, the housing 225 is shown in a transport position. Also visible is an upper guide track 235.

[0141] In the arrangement of FIG. 2A, the housing 225 resides along the forward portion of the vessel 205. The housing 225 is in a horizontal orientation, which is the transport position. The housing 225 rotates about a connection point 227 with the hull 107. The connection point 227, which may be referred to as a hub, is in close proximity to the upper guide track 235. The housing 225 may be rotated about the hub 227 either manually or through an electric motor (not shown).

[0142] FIG. 2B is another side view of the marine vessel 205 of FIG. 2A. Here, the housing 225 is being rotated about the connection point 227.

[0143] FIG. 2C is another side view of the marine vessel 205 of FIG. 2A. Here, the housing 225 has been rotated 90 into a docking position.

[0144] FIG. 2D is another side view of the marine vessel 205 of FIG. 2A. Here, an electric crawler motor 224 is visible along the upper guide track 235. The crawler motor 224 is configured to pull a fender substrate out of the housing 225 and along the upper guide track 235. The crawler motor 224 is preferably gear-driven, and is powered by a rechargeable battery (not shown).

[0145] In FIG. 2D, a leading edge (or second end) 114 of a fender substrate 110 is visible. The fender substrate 110 is being pulled by the crawler motor 224. The crawler motor 224 moves from the forward portion of the vessel 205 towards the aft portion. Of importance, the rotational motor 132 follows the pull of the crawler motor 224 to provide an electric assist.

[0146] FIG. 2E is another side view of the marine vessel 205 of FIG. 2A. Here the fender substrate 110 continues to be pulled along the hull 107 of the vessel 205. The crawler motor 224 pulls the fender substrate 110 along the guide track 235, which is in a horizontal orientation. The fender substrate 110 is moving in the direction shown by Arrow U, showing that it is being unwound from a stanchion. It is understood that a stanchion, or roller (not seen) resides inside of the rotatable housing 225.

[0147] FIG. 2F is another side view of the marine vessel 205 of FIG. 2A. Here the fender substrate 110 has been fully deployed along the hull 107 of the vessel 205. Of interest, the fender substrate 110 comprises a plurality of inflatable bladders 115. The bladders 115 are individually inflated using a pneumatic pump, as discussed above in connection with FIG. 1. In the arrangement of FIG. 2F, the inflatable bladders 115 are equi-distantly spaced in close relation to provide full anti-collision coverage for the hull 107.

[0148] It is observed that the bladders 115 as seen in FIG. 2F are flat. This means that they are not yet inflated. The bladders 115 are shown as having an oval profile; however, they may be of any geometry. Once inflated, the bladders 115 will protect the entire side of the vessel 205.

[0149] It is also noted that the fender substrate 110 of FIG. 2F also has a number of openings 117. When the fender substrate 110 is fully deployed, the openings 117 align with portals 102 of the vessel 205. To accomplish this requires that the fender substrate 110 be custom fit not only to the hull 107 of the marine vessel 105, but also its portals 102.

[0150] FIG. 2G shows the inflatable fender system 200 being rewound back into the housing 125. Arrow R indicates a direction of retraction.

[0151] It is observed that as the drive motor 390 rotationally winds the fender substrate 110 back into the housing 125 and around the stanchion 130, the electric crawler motor 224 is disengaged. This allows the substrate 110 to retract from the hull 107 of the vessel 105. Optionally, the electric crawler motor 224 provides a small amount of mechanical resistance to the top edge 116 of the fender substrate 110, keeping the substrate 110 taut during rewinding.

[0152] In the arrangement of FIGS. 1 and 2F, the housing 125, 225 is placed towards the bow 109 of the vessel 105, 205. In this arrangement, deployment of the inflatable fender system 100 or 200 causes the substrate 110 to be translated from the forward portion of the vessel towards an aft portion of the vessel 105, 205. However, in an alternate arrangement the housing 125, 225 may be placed towards the stern 111 of the vessel 105, 205.

[0153] FIG. 3 presents such an arrangement. FIG. 3 shows a right side (or starboard side) elevation view of the marine vessel 105 of FIG. 1. Here, the marine vessel 105 is outfitted with an inflatable fender system 300, in a third embodiment. In this arrangement, the inflatable fender system 300 is fully electro-mechanical.

[0154] In FIG. 3, the housing 125 is positioned towards an aft portion of the boat 105. The housing 125 again holds a stanchion 130. A bearing surface 390 is shown below the stanchion 130. In this case, the bearing surface is an electric motor 390. Activation of the motor 390 causes the stanchion 130 to rotate. Depending on the direction of rotation, the fender substrate 110 may be wound or it may be unwound.

[0155] The inflatable fender system 300 includes both an upper guide track 335 and a lower guide track 337. The upper guide track 335 holds and receives an infinite loop upper rope 380. Similarly, the lower guide track 337 holds and receives an infinite loop lower rope 382.

[0156] The ropes 380, 382 are secured to the fender substrates 110. Preferably, the ropes 380, 382 are sewn into the fabric of the fender substrate 110. In addition, the ropes 380, 382 are wound over respective pulleys 370, 372. The ropes 380, 382 are configured to deploy and retract the fender substrate 110. The pulleys 370, 372 may be constructed from any suitable material that substantially or completely inhibits corrosion such as plastic, aluminum, stainless steel, and combinations thereof. The pulleys 370, 372 may comprise guides or grooves that mate with the respective rope 380, 382.

[0157] Each of the upper guide track 335 and the lower guide track 337 is configured to guide and support the fender substrate 110. The guide tracks 335, 337 may be constructed from any suitable material that maintains desired structural strength and inhibits corrosion when exposed to marine environments. Suitable examples include aluminum, plastic, and stainless steel. Preferably, the upper guide track 335 is affixed to the hull 107 proximate the rub rail of the vessel 105. At the same time, the lower guide track 337 is preferably disposed below the upper guide track 335 and is affixed to the hull 107 proximate a waterline of the vessel 105.

[0158] In one arrangement, the upper 335 and lower 337 guide tracks are adjustable to accommodate contours and configurations of a desired marine vessel. For example, some hulls of vessels are substantially planar, whereas hulls of other vessels are sloped, curved, or non-uniform. The one or more tracks may be substantially planar to affix to substantially planar hulls or may be curved, angled, or bendable to accommodate hulls of vessels that are sloped, curved, and/or non-uniform.

[0159] In operation, activating the electric motor 390 will rotate a pair of pulleys. These comprise an upper pulley 370 and a lower pulley 372. Rotation of the upper pulley 370 causes the upper rope 380 to move, while rotation of the lower pulley 372 causes the lower rope 382 to move. The upper rope 380 is connected to the top side 116 of the fender substrate 110. At the same time, the lower rope 382 is connected to the bottom side 118 of the fender substrate 110. The upper 380 and lower 382 ropes may be constructed from a durable, stretch-resistant material selected from the group consisting of metal cable, nylon, manila, polyester, polypropylene, polyethylene, and combinations thereof.

[0160] It is understood that activation of the motor 390 causes the two ropes 380, 382 to move simultaneously, thereby pulling the fender substrate 110 to form the inflatable bladder system 300. Stated another way, the fender substrate 110 is pulled towards the forward portion of the boat 105 when the inflatable fender system 300 is deployed. In one aspect, the electric drive motor 390 moves in sync with the electric crawler motor 224 so that the substrate 110 unwinds as the crawler motor 224 moves along the hull 107 of the vessel 105.

[0161] Of interest, a control panel may be provided for operation of the motor 390. A control panel is shown schematically at 340. Activating the motor 390 causes the stanchion 130 to rotate in a first direction to deploy the inflatable fender system while activating the pump causes air to flow through the valves and into the one or more inflatable fenders 115.

[0162] FIG. 4 shows a right side (or starboard side) elevation view of the marine vessel 105 of FIG. 1. Here, the marine vessel 105 is outfitted with an inflatable fender system 400, in a fourth embodiment. In this fourth embodiment, the inflatable fender system 400 is disposed in a stacked configuration. This means that there is an upper fender substrate 415 and a lower fender substrate 416. The use of stacked substrates 415, 416 enables the system 400 to protect upper and lower portions of the hull 107 of the marine vessel 105.

[0163] In the arrangement of FIG. 4, it can be seen that a housing 125 is placed along the forward portion of the vessel 105. The housing 125 contains a stanchion 130. The stanchion 130 is connected to the first end 112 of the fender substrates 415, 416. The stanchion 130 is configured to wind and unwind the fender substrates 415, 416 in response to rotational movement. A single stanchion 130 is used to wind and unwind both fender substrates 415, 416.

[0164] As with the system 300 of FIG. 3, the system 400 of FIG. 4 relies upon an electric motor 390 to rotate the stanchion 130. In addition, the motor 390 turns an upper pulley 370 to move an infinite loop upper rope 380. Similarly, the motor 390 turns a lower pulley 372 to move an infinite loop lower rope 382.

[0165] A pneumatic pump 150 is again provided to inflate a plurality of bladders 115. Separate air channels 152, 156 are provided for the upper 415 and the lower 416 substrates. Specifically, air channel 152 moves air into the bladders 115 associated with the upper fender substrate 415, while air channel 156 moves air into the bladders 115 associated with the lower fender substrate 416. Additionally, separate valves 120, 320 are provided to input and release air into the respective air channels 152, 156.

[0166] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a portion of an inflatable fender substrate 110. At a first end 112, the fender substrate 110 is mechanically attached to a stanchion, or roller 130. The stanchion 130, in turn, sets atop an electric drive motor 390. As discussed above, the electric drive motor 390 is configured to apply a rotational force to the stanchion 130 in either direction. At a second end, the fender substrate 110 is connected to an electric crawler motor 224. The crawler motor 224 pulls the fender substrate 110 during deployment of the fender system 200.

[0167] Intermediate the stanchion 130 and the motor crawler 224 is an upper guide track 335. The substrate 110 hangs from the upper guide track 335 once it is deployed and the bladders 115 are inflated. Optionally, a cording 155 is sewn into the top side 116 of the fender substrate 110. The cording 155 provides a durable material for connecting to the upper guide track 335. Alternatively and more preferably, the fender substrate 110 is supported by a series of hanging tabs, with the tabs being received into a groove along the respective guide track 335.

[0168] In FIG. 5, the fender substrate 110 has two types of bladders. The first type, denoted at 115O, inflates outwardly, that is, away from the surface of the hull 107. The second type, denoted at 115I, inflates inwardly, that is, towards the surface of the hull 107. The bladders 115O are inflated by feeding air under pressure through air channel 152O. At the same time, the bladders 115I are inflated by feeding air under pressure through air channel 152I.

[0169] Air A is supplied by a pneumatic pump (seen in FIG. 1 at 150). Air enters an upper portion of the housing 125. The circled portion 129 of FIG. 5 may be referred to generally as an inflator. The inflator sits over the hub (shown at 227 in FIG. 2A). Power cables may be supplied through the opening in the hull formed by the hub 227.

[0170] A first check valve 120I is placed along air channel 152I, while a second check valve 120O is placed along air channel 152O. The check valves 120I, 120O prevent injected air from moving backwards towards the stanchion 130, keeping the bladders 115I, 115O inflated. In one arrangement, the valves 120I, 120O are solenoids that may be remotely opened and closed. The valves 120I, 120O are opened before the substrate 110 is wound back onto the stanchion 130.

[0171] To form the bladders 115O, 115I, a second piece of material, e.g., PVC fabric, is welded onto the material of the substrate 110. A small air gap is left under the second piece of material. The bladders 115O, 115I form inflatable chambers that receive air at nominally 1.0 to 3.5 psi. The valves 120O, 120I may be designed to open at nominally 0.5 psi. Of interest, the air channels 152I, 152O may also be formed from air gaps left from the sewing or welding of elongated pieces of PVC fabric onto the substrate 110. A hollow chamber allows air to move.

[0172] Beneficially, bladders 115O and bladders 115I form a redundant system. If a puncture should occur along, for example, the air channel 152O or the bladders 115O, then the inflatable fender system 100 can still utilize the bladders 152I.

[0173] At the second end 114 of the fender substrate 110 is a pair of electric relief valves. Valve 157I is associated with air channel 152I, while valve 157O is associated with air channel 152O. Each of the relief valves 157I, 157O is a normally-closed valve, and is designed to hold air pressure within the respective air channels 152I, 152O after the bladders 115I, 115O are inflated. When the operator begins to retract, or rewind, the fender substrates 110 it is necessary to deflate the bladders 115I, 115O and to remove air from the air channels 152I, 152O. To do this, the relief valves 157I, 157O are energized and opened. Thus, as the drive motor 390 winds the fender substrate 110 back into the housing 125, air is released through the relief valves 157I, 157O.

[0174] FIGS. 6A through 6D present enlarged portions of a fender substrate 610. The fender substrate 610 is part of an inflatable fender system 600. The substrate 610 is divided into sections. These are denoted as Sections 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D.

[0175] FIG. 6A is perspective view of Section 6A. This presents a leading edge 618 of the substrate 610. Of interest, FIG. 6A shows an electric crawler motor 624. The electric crawler is used to advance the fender substrate 610 and its individual bladders 615 along the hull 107 of the vessel 105. As noted above, the crawler motor 624 is designed to pull the fender substrate 610 under the power of a rechargeable battery. This is in lieu of either manually pulling the substrate 610 using a tether 140, or using the pulleys 370, 372 and ropes 380, 382.

[0176] FIG. 6B is perspective view of Section 6B. This shows that a bottom edge 616 of the fender substrate 610 has been cut, forming a flap. The flap is configured to open by moving laterally relative to the hull 107 of the vessel 105. This may be referred to as a cut-out. The cutout allows the crew members access to any garages that may be behind the deployed fender system 600.

[0177] FIG. 6C is perspective view of Section 6C. This shows a portion of the fender substrate, having an illustrative bleed valve 657. As with relief valves 157I, 157O, bleed valve 657 is a normally-closed valve, and is designed to hold air pressure within the air channel 652 after the bladders 615I are inflated. When the operator begins to retract, or rewind, the fender substrate 610, the bleed valve 657 is opened and air is squeezed out of the bladders 615.

[0178] It is noted that in the view of FIG. 6C the bleed valve 657 is shown along the substrate 610 amongst the bladders 615. In reality, the bleed valve 657 will be located at or very close to the second end 614.

[0179] FIG. 6D is perspective view of Section 6D. This shows a portion of the fender substrate 610, with bladder valves 654 extending from the air channel 652.

[0180] In each of FIGS. 6A through 6D, the fender substrate 610 resides between an upper guide track 635 and a lower guide track 637. The electric crawler motor 624 moves along the upper guide track 635 to advance the fender substrate 610.

[0181] It can be seen in FIGS. 6A through 6D that the fender substrate 610 supports a plurality of inflatable bladders 615. An air channel 652 runs the length of the substrate 610, and feeds pressurized air to the individual bladders 615. Bladder valves 654 extend from the air channel 652 to each individual bladder 615, providing fluid communication between the air channel 652 and the inflatable bladders 615.

[0182] The fender substrate 610 has a leading edge 614, a top side 616, and a bottom side 618. To ensure proper mating of the guide tracks 635, 637 to the fender substrate 610, the inflatable fender system 600 may further comprise cording 655 positioned within an inner layer of the substrate 610. The cording 655 resides along the top side 616, and is engageable with the one or more guide tracks 635, 637 to guide the inflatable fenders 615 along the hull of the marine vessel 105. Mating of the inflatable fenders 615 with the guide tracks 635, 637 may be accomplished by grooves disposed in the guide tracks 635, 637 for receiving the cording 655.

[0183] Optionally, the substrate 610 includes one or more battens (not shown) sewn into or onto the substrate 610 in a vertical orientation. The battens provide vertical rigidity to the inflatable fender system 600.

[0184] Track mounts 636 are shown, and are used for connecting the upper 635 and lower 637 guide tracks to the hull of a vessel, such as vessel 105.

[0185] FIGS. 6A and 6C demonstrate that the upper 635 and lower 637 guide tracks have a curvature. The curvature may be custom-designed in order to match the curvature of the vessel's hull 107. More preferably, the curvature is simply a result of the installer bending a flexible material making up the guide tracks 635, 637. The guide tracks 635, 637 may be single, elongated rails. Alternatively, the guide tracks 635, 637 may be formed in sections as shown in FIGS. 6A through 6D. The sections, e.g., sections 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, may reside end-to-end, or may be spaced apart.

[0186] In one aspect, when the crawler motor 224 has pulled the second end 614 (or leading edge) of the substrate 610 to the end of the upper guide track 635, the crawler motor 624 will dock and the battery will be automatically recharged. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that once a yacht is docked, it may sit at the marina or dock for a period of days or even weeks, providing plenty of time for the battery to recharge. The crawler motor 624 will go into a neutral state, allowing the electric drive motor 390 to rewind the substrate 610 when it is time to launch the vessel 105.

[0187] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the stanchion 130 of FIG. 1. The stanchion 130 is seen residing within the housing 125. In this view, the fender substrate 610 has been wound around the stanchion 130. The window 127 is seen along the housing 125. Extending from the window 127 and residing on the upper guide track 635 is a groove 738.

[0188] FIG. 8 provides a flowchart showing steps for a method 800 of operating an inflatable fender system of the present invention.

[0189] In one embodiment, the method 800 first comprises affixing a guide track onto the hull of a marine vessel. This is provided in Box 810. Preferably, the guide track resides on the hull of the vessel in a horizontal orientation.

[0190] The method 800 next includes the step of affixing a housing to the hull of the marine vessel. This is seen in Box 820. In one aspect, the housing is connected to the hull by means of a pivoting hub. The pivoting hub allows the housing to rotate between a sailing position (seen in FIG. 2A) and a docking position (seen in FIG. 2C).

[0191] The housing has a stanchion, or roller. The stanchion may be in accordance with the stanchion 130 or 630 shown in any of FIG. 1, 3, 4, 5, or 6A as described above. The housing also has an elongated fender substrate. The fender substrate may be in accordance with the substrate 110 or 610 shown in any of FIG. 1, 2F, 3, 4, 5, or 6A as described above. In this respect, the substrate comprises a plurality of inflatable bladders spaced along its length. The substrate also has one or more bleed valves.

[0192] In any instance, the substrate is wound around the stanchion as shown in FIG. 7.

[0193] The method 800 also comprises rotating the stanchion in a first direction. The purpose is to unwind the fender substrate along the guide track. This step is shown in Box 830. A rotational force is applied to the stanchion in the first direction relative to the hull.

[0194] The step of Box 830 may be performed by manually rotating the stanchion using a tiller arm. Alternatively, an electric drive motor may be used. In this instance, the electric drive motor is remotely actuated.

[0195] The method 800 further includes pulling the fender substrate along the guide track. This is indicated at Box 840. The step of pulling the fender substrate may be performed manually, such as through use of the tether shown in FIG. 1. Alternatively, the step of pulling the fender substrate may be performed by actuating an electric crawler motor. The electric crawler motor moves the substrate along the guide track until it reaches an end of the guide track.

[0196] The method 800 next comprises actuating a pneumatic pump. This is shown at Box 850. Actuating the pump causes air to move under pressure into the bladders of the fender substrate. In this way, an inflatable fender system is formed. Optionally, a second pump is provided on the vessel, with the second pump being operated manually. This allows the bladders to be inflated in the event of a power failure.

[0197] The method 800 also includes remotely opening the one or more bleed valves. This is presented in Box 850. Opening the bleed valves causes air to bleed from the bladders of the fender substrate.

[0198] The method 800 then comprises rotating the roller within the housing in a second direction. This is provided at Box 860. Rotating the roller in a second direction causes the fender substrate to be rewound around the roller. Once again, this may be accomplished manually by rotating a tiller arm. Alternatively, this may be done mechanically by actuating the electric drive motor within the housing. As the substrate is wound onto the stanchion, air is squeezed out of the inflatable bladders.

[0199] It is understood that the method 800 may be duplicated with respect to an inflatable fender system residing on both sides of the vessel. Preferably, each inflatable fender system operates via a shared control system. The control system activates the electric drive motors and the pneumatic pumps.

[0200] The control system may include a handheld remote control, a mountable remote control, or controls affixed on or proximate to the housing. The control system may be wired or wireless. The control system is capable of facilitating both deployment and retraction of the inflatable fender system. During deployment of the inflatable fender system, the control system first activates the motor, causing the rollers to rotate in the first direction to deploy the fender substrates. Once the substrates have advanced along the upper guide tracks, the control system activates the pumps to cause air to flow through the valves and into the inflatable bladders. During retraction, the control system opens the one or more valves to release the air contained within the inflatable bladders. Once all or substantially all of the air is released, the control system activates the motor, causing the rollers to rotate in the second direction to retract the fender substrates. During retraction, excess air not already expelled via opening the relief valves is expelled.

[0201] Additional methods disclosed herein include:

[0202] A first method of manufacturing an inflatable fender system, comprising: [0203] constructing inflatable chambers directly from a suitable material; [0204] attaching the inflatable chambers to a mesh or webbed support material; [0205] incorporating the support material into one or more tracks mounted horizontally on a hull of a marine vessel; [0206] installing a pump, a roller, and a motor within a housing mounted at a forward end of the marine vessel; and [0207] sewing cording into the support material for engaging grooves in the one or more tracks.

[0208] A second method of manufacturing an inflatable fender system, comprising: [0209] affixing a first layer of material to a second layer of material to form a pocket disposed therewithin; [0210] incorporating one or more inflatable fenders within the pocket disposed between the first and second layers of material; [0211] attaching the first and second layers of material to one or more tracks horizontally mountable on a hull of a marine vessel; [0212] integrating a pump, roller, and motor within a housing mounted at a forward end of the marine vessel; and [0213] sewing cording into the first and second layers of material for engaging grooves in the one or more tracks.

[0214] Methods of manufacturing an inflatable fender system without an inner tube are also provided herein. In one embodiment, a method of manufacturing an inflatable fender system without an inner tube comprising: [0215] constructing inflatable chambers directly from a suitable material; [0216] attaching the inflatable chambers to a mesh or webbed support material; [0217] incorporating the support material into one or more tracks mounted horizontally on a hull of a marine vessel; [0218] installing a pump, roller, and motor within a housing mounted at a forward end of the marine vessel; and [0219] sewing cording into the support material for engaging grooves in the one or more tracks.

[0220] Methods of installing an inflatable fender system are also provided herein. In one embodiment, a method of installing an inflatable fender system comprising: [0221] removably affixing one or more tracks horizontally along a hull of a marine vessel; [0222] securing a housing at a forward end of the marine vessel; [0223] attaching one or more inflatable fenders to a roller contained within the housing; [0224] connecting a motor, spindle, and one or more pulleys together within the housing; [0225] connecting a pump to the one or more inflatable fenders; [0226] threading a rope through the one or more pulleys and the one or more inflatable fenders, the one or more pulleys connectable to the spindle within the housing; [0227] configuring the inflatable fender system to correspond to contours of the marine vessel, including creating cutouts for windows and portholes; and [0228] testing the deployment and retraction of the inflatable fender system using a remote control system to ensure proper operation.

[0229] Detailed embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the subject matter that may be embodied in various forms. It will be appreciated that modifications and variations stand within the intended scope of the subject matter as described above and as claimed below.