The present invention relates to the field of water sports boats, in particular to a towing system for a water sports boat.

Water sports boats are commonly used as recreational vessels powered by one or more inboard engines to exercise water sports, for example on a lake or seaside. The term "water sports” as used herein shall refer generally to water activities utilizing a tow rope including wake boarding, knee boarding, water skiing, wakesurfing, etc. For example, during water skiing or wake boarding, the water sports boat pulls a person on skis or a wakeboard via the tow rope, which, at an appropriate speed, allows the person to remain above the water. The tow rope is towed on a towing system on the water sports boats and which tow rope can be grasped by the person.

A water sports boat commonly has a towing construction, e.g. a pylon or pole, mounted on the middle deck to attach the tow rope. Alternatively, the towing construction is attached to the respective sides of the boat. The towing construction can be extendable, e.g. to increase the height of jumps during wakeboarding, or collapsible, e.g. for reducing a height clearance of the boat.

These known constructions have the disadvantage of limiting the available space on the water sports boat. These constructions take up valuable space when they are collapsed, for example during the period of non-use.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a towing system for a water sports boat, wherein as little as possible use of available space of the water sports boat is required, or to provide at least an alternative towing system.

The object of the invention is achieved by a towing system for a water sports boat, the towing system comprising:

• a pivotable elongated member configured to be arranged on a deck of the water sports boat, the elongated member comprising o a lower end configured to be pivotally attached to the water sports boat, o an upper end, o a base extending between the lower end and the upper end, a hinge member configured to be arranged on the water sports boat around which the elongated member is configured to pivot, wherein the elongated member is pivotable between o a first position, wherein the hinge member is configured to arrange the elongated member underneath the deck or the base flush with the deck, and wherein the base is substantially parallel with the deck, and o a second position, wherein the hinge member is configured to allow the elongated member to be at an angle relative to the deck, and wherein the upper end is arranged above the deck.

The towing system according to the invention comprises a pivotable elongated member. The elongated member is configured to be arranged on a deck of the water sports boat. The deck is a platform or a part of an outside floor of the water sports boat. The deck for example allows to support people or equipment. The deck is for example a sundeck e.g. comprising automated sunbeds. Preferably, the deck is arranged near the rear of the boat, i.e. the stern.

The elongated member comprises a lower end, an upper end and a base. The lower end is configured to be pivotally attached to the water sports boat. Preferably, the lower end is arranged near the stern. The upper end defines the maximum height of the elongated member relative to the deck. The base extends between the lower end and the upper end. For example, the base is extendable.

The towing system further comprises a hinge member configured to be arranged on the water sports boat around which the elongated member is configured to pivot. For example, the hinge member is arranged near the lower end of the elongated member. For example, the hinge member comprises one or more bearings. The one or more bearings are for example attached to the lower end of the elongated member. The one or more bearings allow the elongated member to pivot relative to the deck. The elongated member is pivotable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the hinge member is configured to arrange the elongated member underneath the deck or the base flush with the deck. The water sports boat comprises a storage compartment underneath the deck to store the elongated member in the first position. The hinge member defines a rotation axis. Preferably, the rotation axis is perpendicular to the sailing direction of the water sports boat, wherein the rotation axis is oriented parallel to a width of the deck. The hinge member is for example arranged just below the surface of the deck. In the first position, the base is substantially parallel with the deck.

In case the base is flush with the deck, the elongated member is part of the deck. For example, the base has a plane surface which allows to support people or equipment when the base is flush with the deck. By having the base flush with the deck, the space taken by the storage compartment underneath the deck to store at least part of the elongated member in the first position can be kept small.

In an embodiment, the deck comprises a panel. The panel is configured to cover the elongated member when the elongated member is in the first position. The panel is configured to be folded open, e.g. automatically, to allow the elongated member to pivot from the first position to the second position. The panel for example comprises a plurality of subpanels which are hinged to the deck. When the panel is closed, the elongated member is hidden underneath the deck. Alternatively or in addition, the panel is removeable from the deck. The elongated member is configured to support the panel. For example, the panel is configured to rest on the base when the elongated member is in the first position. In an embodiment, one or more supports are attached to the elongated member, e.g. at the base. The one or more supports are configured to allow the panel to rest on the elongated member. Alternatively or in addition, one or more supports are attached to the panel.

When the elongated member is in the first position, more space on the deck is available to utilise, for example during the period of non-use of the towing system. For example, persons are allowed to walk over the deck and/or the panel of the deck, when the elongated member is arranged underneath the deck, i.e. when the elongated member is in the first position. Alternatively, persons are allowed to walk over the elongated member, when the base is flush the deck, i.e. when the elongated member is in the first position.

The towing system according to the invention provides a solution to compactly store the elongated member. Additionally, for esthetical reasons it is more attractive to be able to hide the elongated member underneath the deck or to smoothly integrate the elongated member in the deck when the base is flush with the deck.

In the second position, the hinge member is configured to allow the elongated member to be at an angle relative to the deck. In the second position, the upper end is arranged above the deck. In the second position, when tow rope is attached to the elongated member, the elongated member can be used to exercise water sports, i.e. towing a water sporter via the elongated member as part of a water sporting activity. Alternatively, a bar is attached to the elongated member, wherein the bar is configured to be used to exercise water sports lateral to the water sports boat, e.g. lateral water skiing. The angle of the elongated member relative to the deck is adjustable. For example, if additional height of the elongated member is needed, the angle can be increased.

In an embodiment, the hinge member comprises a first hinge part configured to be attached to the water sports boat and a second hinge part configured to be attached to the elongated member or is part of the elongated member. The first hinge part is configured to be engaged to the second hinge part. The first hinge part and the second hinge part are configured to be arranged rotatably relative to each other. For example, the first hinge part is attached to the deck, whereas the second hinge part is attached to the lower end of the elongated member.

In a further embodiment, the second hinge part is part of the elongated member and is arranged at the lower end of the elongated member. The second hinge part is configured to allow the elongated member to pivot between the first position and the second position when the second hinge part is engaged to the first hinge part.

In an embodiment, the first hinge part comprises one or more first bearings and the second hinge part comprises a rod, wherein the one or more first bearings are rotatably attachable to the rod. The rod is oriented to the rotation axis, i.e. the rod coincides with the rotation axis. The rod is configured to rotate relative to the one or more bearings to allow the elongated member to pivot between the first position and the second position, and wherein the one or more first bearings are configured to attach the elongated member to the water sports boat rotatably about the rod. The one or more first bearings are for example rotational bearings. For example, the rod is part of the elongated member and is arranged at the lower end of the elongated member. The rod is configured to absorb lateral forces acting on the elongated member, e.g. due to the lateral swinging movement of a water sporter or inflatable. The lateral forces are guided to the rod via the lower end.

Alternatively, the first hinge part comprises a rod and the second hinge part comprises one or more first bearings, wherein the one or more first bearings are rotatably attachable to the rod. The rod is oriented to the rotation axis, i.e. the rod coincides with the rotation axis. The rod is configured to rotate relative to the one or more bearings to allow the elongated member to pivot between the first position and the second position, and wherein the one or more first bearings are configured to attach the elongated member to the water sports boat rotatably about the rod. The one or more first bearings are for example rotational bearings.

In an embodiment, the towing system further comprises an actuator configured to pivot the elongated member around the hinge member between the first position and the second position. By setting a desired angle, e.g. via a control unit, the actuator is configured to pivot the elongated member towards the desired angle. The actuator is for example arranged underneath the deck, e.g. below the elongated member when in the first position. For example, the water sports boat comprises a recess under the storage compartment, which recess is configured to accommodate the actuator. In a further embodiment, the actuator is arranged near the lower end of the elongated member. When the actuator pivots the elongated member around the hinge member towards the second position, it is easier to reach the space underneath the deck, for example to execute maintenance work, e.g. in the engine room.

In an embodiment, the actuator is a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder configured to extend or retract to pivot the elongated member around the hinge member between the first position and the second position. To pivot the elongated member from the first position to the second position, the cylinder extends and pushes against the elongated member such that the angle increases. To decrease the angle, e.g. to pivot the elongated member from the second position to the first position, the cylinder retracts. In an embodiment, the storage compartment comprises an opening. For example, the cylinder protrudes through the opening. The opening is dimensioned such that the cylinder is able to extend or retract without touching an edge of the opening.

In an embodiment, a room is arranged under the storage compartment of the deck. The room is for example an engine room. The room is for example configured to be covered by a room hatch, e.g. an engine room hatch. At least part of the room hatch is arranged below the elongated member. The room hatch is configured to be pivotably attached to the hinge member.

In an embodiment, the hinge member comprises a third hinge part configured to be attached to the room hatch of the water sports boat, wherein the third hinge part is configured to be engaged to the first hinge part or the second hinge part. The third hinge part is configured to allow the room hatch to pivot relative to the deck. For example, the third hinge part comprises one or more second bearings, e.g. rotational bearings, attachable to the first hinge part or the second hinge part.

As an example, the first hinge part comprises one or more first bearings and the second hinge part comprises the rod, wherein the one or more first bearings are rotatably attachable to the rod. The rod is configured to rotate relative to the one or more first bearings to allow the elongated member to pivot between the first position and the second position, and wherein the one or more first bearings are configured to attach the elongated member to the water sports boat rotatably about the rod. The one or more first bearings are for example rotational bearings. The third hinge part comprises one or more second bearings, e.g. rotational bearings, attachable to the rod. The one or more second bearings are arranged to attach the room hatch to the elongated member rotatably about the rod. The room hatch is configured to pivot about the rod. Preferably, the room hatch and the elongated member are configured to pivot about the rotation axis independently from each other. Alternatively, the first hinge part comprises a rod and the second hinge part comprises one or more first bearings, wherein the one or more first bearings are rotatably attachable to the rod. The rod is configured to rotate relative to the one or more bearings to allow the elongated member to pivot between the first position and the second position, and wherein the one or more first bearings are configured to attach the elongated member to the water sports boat rotatably about the rod. The one or more first bearings are for example rotational bearings. The third hinge part comprises one or more second bearings, e.g. rotational bearings, attachable to the rod. The one or more second bearings are arranged to attach the room hatch to the elongated member rotatably about the rod. The room hatch is configured to pivot about the rod. Preferably, the room hatch and the elongated member are configured to pivot about the rotation axis independently from each other.

In an embodiment, the actuator is configured to pivot the room hatch to access the room, e.g. the engine room. For example, the actuator is a hydraulic cylinder which comprises a pushing member, which pushing member is configured to push against the room hatch to pivot the room hatch. Alternatively, the towing system comprises a second actuator, e.g. arranged in the room. The second actuator is for example a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder. The second actuator is configured to pivot the room hatch about the hinge member to access the room. By providing the second actuator, the room hatch and the elongated member are configured to pivot about the rotation axis independently from each other.

In an embodiment, the room hatch comprises the storage compartment configured to store the elongated member in the first position. The deck for example covers at least part of the room hatch. The storage compartment of the room hatch is for example covered by the panel. The panel for example comprises a plurality of subpanels which are hinged to the room hatch.

In an embodiment, the elongated member further comprises one or more attachment members arranged at the lower end and/or the base and/or upper end for attaching a tow rope or a bar. The bar is for example used for water skiing in a lateral position relative to the water sports boat. The attachment member is for example a hook or a strap. The position on the elongated member to attach the tow rope or the bar via an attachment member can be adjusted in view of personal preference. The position of attachment generally depends on the water sporting activity which the user prefers to execute. For example, for wakeboarding it is favourable to have the attachment high on the elongated member, i.e. near the upper end, to enable high jumps above the water surface. For water skiing it requires a stable attachment to the elongated member. Therefore, it is preferred to attach the tow rope near the centre of the base of the elongated member. This ensures that the risk of lateral swinging is reduced. With inflatables, e.g. an inflatable banana boat, it is the other way around. With inflatables one just wants to create a large swinging movement. Hence, it is preferred to attach the tow rope low on the elongated member, i.e. near the lower end.

By having multiple attachment members across the elongated member different water sports can be practiced.

In an embodiment, the one or more attachment members on the elongated member are configured to be moved or detached. The one or more attachment members are moveable along a longitudinal direction of the elongated member. By moving manually or automatically the one or more attachment members on the elongated member, the position and/or height of the one or more attachment members relative to the deck can be altered. This has the advantage that more variations are possible when the elongated member is in the second position. Based on the preferred water sports activity, the user can adapt the angle of the elongated member relative to the deck and/or the position of the attachment member on the elongated member.

In an embodiment, the elongated member comprises a guiding member and/or a holding member. For example, the guiding member and/or the holding member are arranged at the base of the elongated member. The guiding member is configured to guide the one or more attachment members along the longitudinal direction of the elongated member. The holding member is configured to hold the one or more attachment members in a fixed position on the elongated member, e.g. on the base.

For example, the guiding member comprises a chain. The chain is integrated on the elongated member. The chain e.g. extends between the lower end and the upper end. The one or more attachment members are configured to be attached to the chain. The chain is moveable over the base. The chain is configured to be electrically driven by a motor unit. The motor unit is e.g. arranged at the lower end. By moving the chain, the one or more attachment members are moved along the longitudinal direction of the elongated member. Preferably, the chain is moveable from the lower end to the upper end, e.g. to raise the one or more attachment members, and/or the chain is moveable from the upper end to the lower end, e.g. to lower the one or more attachment members.

Alternatively, the guiding member comprises a guiding rod, which is arranged on the base of the elongated member. The guiding rod extends over the base, e.g. from the lower end to the upper end. The guiding rod is for example an Archimedes rod which is threaded. The guiding member further comprises an attachment ring. The attachment ring is configured to be arranged over the guiding rod. The attachment ring is configured to slide over the guiding rod. The attachment ring comprises the attachment member. The position of the attachment ring on the guiding rod is adjustable by sliding the attachment ring over the guiding rod, e.g. manually or automatically. Alternatively, the guiding member comprises an attachment rod. The attachment rod comprises an aperture, wherein the guiding rod is configured to be fitted through the aperture. The attachment rod is configured to slide over the guiding rod. The attachment rod comprises the attachment member. The position of the attachment rod on the guiding rod is adjustable by sliding the attachment rod over the guiding rod, e.g. manually or automatically.

In addition, a holding member is provided. For example, the holding member comprises a manual clicking mechanism wherein the guiding rod is provided with pressable pins. The attachment ring comprises at least one securing opening, wherein the pin is configured the engage the opening. By pressing the pressable pin the attachment ring is able to be moved over the guiding rod till the securing opening is located over the pin, wherein the pin will spring back to make a secure fixed connection between the attachment ring and the guiding rod, i.e. the pin is clicked in the securing opening. In order to move the attachment ring further, the pressable pin needs to be pressed again.

In an alternative or further example, the elongated member comprises a guiding slit. The guiding slit is arranged on an inner edge of the elongated member, e.g. at an inner edge of a support of the elongated member, along the longitudinal direction of the elongated member. The guiding slit extends over the base parallel to the guiding rod. Preferably, the guiding slit has at least the same length as the guiding rod. The guiding slit is configured to guide the attachment ring over the guiding rod.

Additionally, the elongated member comprises a guiding structure. The guiding structure is configured to be arranged in the guiding slit, which guiding structure is connectable to the attachment ring. When the attachment ring moves over the guiding rod, the guiding structure is configured to move along with attachment ring wherein the guiding structure moves through the guiding slit. The guiding structure is configured to hold the respective position of the attachment member on the guiding rod.

In an embodiment, the rod is configured to be rotated. By rotating the rod, e.g. via a motor unit arranged at an end of the guiding rod, the attachment ring slides over the guiding rod. In this case, the position of the attachment member on the elongated member can be varied automatically.

The one or more attachment members are detachable. When a particular attachment member is damaged or broken, it can be detached from the elongated member and replaced.

In an embodiment, when the elongated member is in the second position, the angle can be adjusted in view of personal preference. Preferably, the angle is between 1-60 degrees, preferably between 5-50 degrees For example, for wakeboarding it is favourable to have a relatively large angle, e.g. between 40-60 degrees. The situation wherein the angle is relatively large and by having the tow rope attached near the upper end of the elongated member, a wakeboarder is able to make high jumps and to have longer airtime for doing tricks. For water skiing, it is preferred to rather have a small angle, e.g. between 5--20 degrees. By additionally attach the tow rope near the upper end of the elongated member, an ideal situation is created for a water skier to have the tow rope as stable as possible, due to the longitudinal position relative to the water sports boat. This configuration also benefits the water skier ergonomically, as the height corresponds to the height of the arms of the water skier above the water surface.

For example, the desired angle can be inputted via an user interface. The user interface transmits an angle signal representative of the desired angle to the control unit. The control unit is configured to control the actuator based on the received angle signal to pivot the elongated member towards the second position having the desired angle. The actuator for example comprises one or more hydraulic pumps which are controlled by the control unit.

In an embodiment, the towing system further comprises an encoder. The encoder is configured to register rotation data of the elongated member and/or the room hatch. The rotation data is representative of the angle. The encoder for example uses mechanical, optical or magnetic sensors to detect rotational position changes, i.e. the angle, of the elongated member and/or the room hatch. For example, the angle between the elongated member and the deck is detectable by the sensor. The sensor is configured to transmit a rotation data signal representative of the detected angle. The control unit is configured to receive the rotation data signal to control the actuator based on the received rotation data signal.

In an embodiment, the towing system further comprises a support bar for supporting the elongated member in the second position, wherein the support bar comprises a first end attachable to the elongated member, e.g. to the base, and a second end is configured to be fixedly attached to the water sports boat. The support bar provides additional support against high forces, which the elongated member has to endure, e.g. during a water sporting activity.

In an embodiment, when the elongated member is in the first position, the support bar is arranged below the elongated member. In case the elongated member is in the first position, the support bar is substantially parallel with the elongated member. By attaching the first end of the support bar to the base, the support bar is configured to pivot around the second end when the elongated member pivots between the first position and the second position.

In an embodiment, the second end of the support bar is configured to be fixedly attached to the room hatch of the water sports boat, e.g. the engine room hatch. In an embodiment, the elongated member is a pole. The pole has a cylindrical shape. The pole is for example made from a composite material.

Alternatively, the elongated member is U-shaped. The base of the U-shaped elongated member comprises two parallel bars. At the upper end, a third bar is arranged perpendicular to the parallel bars, wherein the third bar is connected to the parallel bars.

In an embodiment, the U-shaped elongated member is made out of one piece. For example, the second hinge part comprises the rod which is part of the elongated member.

In an embodiment, the lower end of the elongated member has a curved profile. The curved profile is for example C-shaped. By having the curved profile, there is a height difference between the upper end and the lower end. When the elongated member is arranged in a horizontal position, for example when the elongated member is in the first position, at least part of the elongated member is arranged lower than the lower end. Therefore, when the hinge member is arranged near the lower end, it is easier to arrange the elongated member underneath the deck. Additionally, the hinge member can be arranged on or above the deck to arrange the elongated member underneath the deck or the base flush with the deck.

According to a second aspect, the invention further pertains to a water sports boat comprising the towing system according to the invention.

In an embodiment, at least part of the room hatch is arranged below the elongated member, wherein the room hatch is configured to be pivotably attached to the water sports boat. The room hatch for example comprises the storage compartment configured to store the elongated member in the first position. The deck for example covers at least part of the room hatch.

In an embodiment, the water sports boat comprises a panel configured to be hinged to the deck, wherein in the first position of the elongated member, the panel is configured to cover the elongated member, and wherein the panel is pivotable and/or removeable to allow the elongated member to pivot from the first position to the second position. The storage compartment of the room hatch is for example covered by the panel.

In an embodiment, the panel comprises a plurality of subpanels which are configured to be hinged to the deck. In an embodiment, one or more supports are attached to the elongated member and/or the panel, wherein the one or more supports are configured to allow the panel to rest on the elongated member.

The invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the figures, in which in a non-limiting manner exemplary embodiments of the invention will be shown. The same reference numerals in different figures indicate the same characteristics in different figures.

In the figures:

Figs. 1a-b: Schematically show an embodiment of a towing system according to the invention for a water sports boat, wherein in Fig. 1a an elongated member is in the first position and in Fig. 1b the elongated member is in the second position;

Fig. 2: Schematically shows a towing system for a water sports boat as illustrated in Figs. 1a-b in more detail, wherein an elongated member is in a first position;

Figs. 3a-3b: Schematically show an elongated member (fig. 3a) and a room hatch (fig. 3b) as illustrated in fig. 2 in more detail to illustrate the pivot mechanism around a hinge member;

Fig. 4: Schematically shows a cross section of a side view of the towing system according to the invention, wherein an elongated member is in the second position.

Fig. 5: Schematically shows a cross section of a side view of the towing system according to the invention, wherein an engine room hatch is opened to expose an engine room;

Figs. 6a-6b: Schematically illustrate a part of an elongated member according to the invention in more detail, wherein the elongated member comprises an attachment member moveable along a longitudinal direction of an elongated member;

Figs. 7-8: Schematically show the towing system according to the invention in different configurations, wherein an elongated member is pivoted to a second position.

Figs. 1a-b schematically shows an embodiment of a towing system according to the invention for a water sports boats. Figs. 1a-b are a rear perspective view of the water sports boat 1. The water sports boat 1 comprises a front lounge 2 at the front (i.e. the bow), a helm compartment 3 including a helm for steering the water sports boat and a main lounge, a deck 4 and a platform 5 at the rear (i.e. the stern). The deck 4 is a platform or a part of an outside floor of the water sports boat 1. The deck 4 allows to support people or equipment. In this example, the deck 4 is a sundeck comprising automated sunbeds 4a.

The towing system 6 according to the invention is arranged on the deck 4. The towing system 6 comprises a pivotable elongated member 7. The elongated member 7 is pivotable between a first position (see fig. 1a) and a second position (see fig. 1b). The elongated member 7 comprises a lower end 7a, an upper end 7b and a base 7c. The lower end 7a is pivotally attached to the water sports boat 1. The lower end 7a is arranged near the stern. The upper end 7b defines the maximum height of the elongated member 7 relative to the deck 4. The base 7c extends between the lower end 7a and the upper end 7b. For example, the base 7c is extendable.

The towing system 6 comprises a hinge member 8 (see fig. 1b) around which the elongated member 7 is configured to pivot. The hinge member 8 is arranged near the lower end 7a of the elongated member 7. The hinge member 8 defines a rotation axis 11 (see dotted line in fig. 1 b). The rotation axis 11 is perpendicular to the sailing direction of the water sports boat 1 , wherein the rotation axis 11 is oriented parallel to a width of the deck.

In the first position (fig. 1a), the hinge member 8 is configured to arrange the elongated member 7 underneath the deck 4. The deck 4 comprises a panel 4b. The panel 4b covers the elongated member 7 in the first position. The panel 4b is configured to be folded open, e.g. automatically, to allow the elongated member to pivot from the first position to the second position (see Fig. 1b). The panel 4b comprises two subpanels which are hinged to the deck 4. When the panel 4b is closed, the elongated member 7 is hidden underneath the deck 4. Each subpanel can be removed from the deck 4.

When the elongated member 7 is in the first position, more space on the deck 4 is available to utilise, for example during the period of non-use of the towing system 6. For example, persons are allowed to walk over the deck 4, when the elongated member 7 is arranged underneath the deck 4.

The towing system 6 according to the invention provides a solution to compactly store the elongated member 7. Additionally, for esthetical reasons it is more attractive to be able to hide the elongated member 7 underneath the deck 4.

In the second position, as shown in Fig. 1b, the elongated member 7 makes an angle a relative to the deck 4. In the second position, the upper end 7b is arranged above the deck 4. In the second position, when tow rope is attached to the elongated member 7, the elongated member 7 can be used to exercise water sports, i.e. towing a water sporter via the elongated member 7 as part of a water sporting activity. The angle a is adjustable. For example, if additional height of the elongated member 7 is needed, the angle a can be increased.

The elongated member 7 further comprises attachment members 9 arranged at the lower end 7a, the upper end 7b and the base 7c for attaching tow rope or a bar. The attachment members 9 are straps and/or hooks. The position on the elongated member 7 to attach the tow rope or the bar via an attachment member 9 can be adjusted in view of personal preference. The position of attachment generally depends on the water sporting activity which the user prefers to execute. For example, for wakeboarding it is favourable to have the attachment high on the elongated member 7, i.e. near the upper end 7b, to enable high jumps above the water surface. For water skiing it requires a stable attachment to the elongated member 7. Therefore, it is preferred to attach the tow rope near the centre of the base 7c of the elongated member 7. This ensures that the risk of swinging is reduced. With inflatables, e.g. an inflatable banana boat, it is the other way around. With inflatables one just wants to create a large swinging movement. Hence, it is preferred to attach the tow rope low on the elongated member 7, i.e. near the lower end 7a. By having multiple attachment members 9 across the elongated member 7 different water sports can be practiced.

The towing system 6 further comprises an actuator 10 configured to pivot the elongated member 7 around the hinge member 8 between the first position and the second position. In the shown example, the actuator 10 is a hydraulic cylinder configured to extend or retract to pivot the elongated member 7 around the hinge member 8 between the first position and the second position. By setting a desired angle a, e.g. via a control unit, the actuator 10 pivots the elongated member 7 towards the desired angle a. The actuator 10 is arranged underneath the deck 4 in fig. 1a.

Fig. 2 schematically shows the towing system as illustrated in Figs. 1a-b in more detail, wherein the elongated member is in a first position. The elongated member 7 is II- shaped. The base 7c of the U-shaped elongated member 7 comprises two parallel bars. At the upper end 7b, a third bar is arranged perpendicular to the parallel bars, wherein the third bar is connected to the parallel bars. The U-shaped elongated member 7 is for example made out of one piece.

When the elongated member is in the first position, the elongated member 7 is configured to support the panel 4b. Two supports 21 are attached to the base 7c of the elongated member 7. The supports 21 are configured to allow the panel 4b to rest on the elongated member 7. In fig. 2, the panel is removed from the deck 4 to expose the elongated member 7. Alternatively, one or more supports are attached to the panel 4b.

The water sports boat 1 comprises a storage compartment 22 underneath the deck 4 to store the elongated member 7 in the first position. An engine room (not visible in fig. 2) is arranged under the storage compartment 22. The engine room is covered by an engine room hatch 23. At least part of the room hatch 23 is arranged below the elongated member 7. The engine room hatch 23 is pivotably attached to the hinge member 8.

Figs. 3a-3b schematically show the elongated member and the room hatch respectively as illustrated in fig. 2 in more detail to illustrate the pivot mechanism around the hinge member. The hinge member 8 comprises a first hinge part 8a attachable to the water sports boat and a second hinge part 8b which is part of the elongated member 7. The first hinge part 8a comprises four first bearings and the second hinge part 8b comprises a rod. The first bearings are rotational bearings. The rod is part of the elongated member 7. The rod is arranged at the lower end 7a of the elongated member 7. The rod is oriented to the rotation axis 11 , i.e. the rod coincides with the rotation axis 11. The first bearings are attached to the rod. The first bearings and the rod are arranged rotatably relative to each other. By attaching the bearings to the rod, the elongated member 7 can be attached to the water sports boat rotatably about the rod (see fig. 2).

The hinge member 8 comprises a third hinge part 8c attachable to the engine room hatch 23 of the water sports boat. The engine room hatch 23 comprises an engaging member 24. The engaging member 24 is configured to engage the rod of the elongated member 7. When the elongated member 7 is attached to the engine room hatch 23 via the engine member 24 and the rod, the third hinge part 8c allows the room hatch 23 to pivot relative to the deck 4. The third hinge part 8c comprises two second rotational bearings attached to the rod. The second rotational bearings are arranged to attach the room hatch 23 to the elongated member rotatably about the rod. The room hatch 23 is configured to pivot about the rod. Preferably, the room hatch 23 and the elongated member 7 are configured to pivot about the rotation axis 11 independently from each other.

The rod is configured to absorb lateral forces acting on the elongated member 7, e.g. due to the lateral swinging movement of a water sporter or inflatable. The lateral forces are guided to the rod via the lower end 7a.

Fig. 4 schematically shows a cross section of a side view of the towing system according to the invention, wherein an elongated member is in the second position.

The lower end 7a of the elongated member has a curved profile 30. The curved profile 30 is C-shaped. The C-shaped profile is illustrated in detail of the lower end 7a. By having the curved profile 30, there is a height difference between the upper end 7b and the lower end 7a. When the elongated member 7 is arranged in a horizontal position, for example when the elongated member is in the first position (see Fig. 1a), at least part of the elongated member 7 is arranged lower than the lower end 7a. By having the hinge member 8 arranged near the lower end 7a, it is easier to arrange the elongated member 7 underneath the deck 4. Additionally, the hinge member 8 can be arranged on or above the deck 4 to arrange the elongated member 7 underneath the deck 4 or the base 7c flush with the deck 4.

The water sports boat 1 comprises a recess 31 under the storage compartment 22, which recess 31 is configured to accommodate the hydraulic cylinder 10. The storage compartment comprises 22 an opening 32. The hydraulic cylinder 10 protrudes through the opening 32. The opening 32 is dimensioned such that the cylinder 10 is able to extend or retract without touching an edge of the opening 32.

An engine room 33 is arranged under the storage compartment 22 of the deck 4. The engine room 33 is covered by the engine room hatch 23. A control unit 34 is arranged in the engine room 33. The actuator 10 further comprises one or more hydraulic pumps 35 arranged in the engine room 33. The one or more hydraulic pumps 35 are controlled by the control unit 34.

For example, the desired angle a can be inputted via an user interface, e.g. via a touch screen arranged at the deck 4. The user interface transmits an angle signal representative of the desired angle to a control unit 34. The control unit 34 is configured to control the one or more hydraulic pumps 35 based on the received angle signal to pivot the elongated member 7 via the hydraulic cylinder 10 towards the second position having the desired angle.

Fig. 5 schematically illustrates the towing system as illustrated in Fig. 4, wherein the engine room hatch is opened to access the engine room.

The engine room hatch 23 is pivotably attached to the hinge member 8. The engine room hatch 23 is for example opened manually by pivoting the engine room hatch 23 around the hinge member 8.

Alternatively, the towing system comprises a second actuator (not shown in fig. 5). The second actuator is for example arranged in the engine room 33. The second actuator is for example a hydraulic cylinder. The second actuator is configured to pivot the engine room hatch 23 about the hinge member 8 to access the engine room 33.

Figs. 6a-6b schematically illustrate a part of an elongated member according to the invention in more detail, wherein the elongated member 67 comprises an attachment member 69 moveable along a longitudinal direction of the elongated member 67.

By moving the attachment member 69 on the elongated member 67, the position and/or height of the attachment member 69 relative to the deck can be altered. This has the advantage that more variations are possible when the elongated member 67 is in the second position. Based on the preferred water sports activity, the user can adapt the angle of the elongated member 67 relative to the deck and/or the position of the attachment member 69 on the elongated member 67.

In Figs. 6a-6b, the elongated member 67 comprises a guiding rod 61, which is arranged on the base 67c of the elongated member 67. The guiding rod 61 extends over the base 67c. The guiding rod 61 is an Archimedes rod which is threaded. The elongated member further comprises an attachment rod 62. The attachment rod 62 comprises a threaded aperture (not visible), wherein the guiding rod 61 is fitted through the aperture. The attachment rod 62 is configured to slide over the guiding rod 61. The attachment rod 62 comprises the attachment member 69, which is a hook. The position of the attachment rod 62 on the guiding rod 61 is adjustable by rotating the guiding rod, e.g. manually or automatically, and laterally holding the attachment rod 62 causing the attachment rod 62 to slide over the guiding rod 61 due to the threaded structure of the guiding rod 61.

The elongated member 67 further comprises a guiding slit 63. The guiding slit 63 is arranged on an inner edge of the supports 64 arranged at the base 67c. The guiding slit 63 extends over the base 67c parallel to the guiding rod 61 along the longitudinal direction of the elongated member 67. The length of the guiding slit 63 is substantially equal to the length of the guiding rod 61. The guiding slit 63 is configured to guide the attachment rod 62 over the guiding rod. The attachment rod 62 is arranged in the guiding slit 61. The guiding slit 61 is configured to laterally hold the attachment rod 62, which prevents the attachment rod 62 to rotate around the guiding rod 61.

The elongated member further comprises a motor unit 65. The motor unit 65 is arranged near the base 67c of the elongated member 67. The motor unit 65 is configured to rotate the guiding rod 61 around its axis. By rotating the guiding rod 61 via the motor unit 65 the attachment rod 62 slides over the guiding rod 61 , e.g. from a lower position (fig. 6a) to a higher position (fig. 6b) on the elongated member 67 or vice versa. In this case, the position of the attachment member 69 on the elongated member 67 can be varied automatically.

Further, the attachment member 69 is detachable. When the attachment member 69 is damaged or broken, it can be detached from the elongated member 67 and replaced.

Figs. 7-8 schematically show the towing system according to the invention in different configurations, wherein the elongated member is pivoted to a second position. The hinge member is configured to allow the elongated member to be at an angle relative to the deck. The angle can be adjusted in view of personal preference. Preferably, the angle is between 1- 60 degrees, preferably between 5-50 degrees. For example, for wakeboarding it is favourable to have a relatively large angle, e.g. between 45-60 degrees. The situation wherein the angle is relatively large and by having the tow rope attached near the upper end of the elongated member, a wakeboarder is able to make high jumps and to have longer airtime for doing tricks. For water skiing, it is preferred to rather have a small angle, e.g. between 5-20 degrees.

In fig. 7, for example, the angle is relatively small, e.g. 10 degrees. Further, tow rope 71 is attached to the elongated member near the upper end. This configuration creates an ideal situation for a water skier to have the tow rope 71 as stable as possible, due to the longitudinal position in relation to the water sports boat 1. This position also benefits the water skier ergonomically, as the height corresponds to the height of the arms of the water skier above the water surface.

In fig. 8, for example, the angle is relatively small, e.g. 20 degrees. Further, a bar 81 is laterally fastened to the base of the elongated member. This configuration creates an ideal situation for a water skier, e.g. a barefoot water skier, to position himself next to the water sports boat 1 on an untouched flat water surface.