Retractable mast for sailboats

Abstract

A retractable mast for sailboats. The mast, which retracts telescopically, comprises an inner core containing air sealed air chambers, either separated or coextensive, which are pressurized when the mast is fully extended. A compressed air bottle or air compressor driven by the boat engine supplies pressurized air to raise the mast. Valves control the pressure release for extension or retraction. The mast may also be operated hydraulically or by stored or generated pressurized gas. The air chambers may contain inflatable bags to retain the pressurized air in each chamber. A stiffener may be erected adjacent the fully extended mast to maintain it in the fully extended position. The stiffener also holds rings which travel along its length for holding the main sail when hoisted. A bracket mounts to the mast and extends around the stiffener, providing for rotatably mounting the boom aft of the stiffener.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.