Patent Publication Number: US-7587986-B2

Title: Modular personal pontoon boat

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
   This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/785,561, filed on Mar. 24, 2006, and by reference is incorporated in its entirety herein. 

   FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention relates to portable watercraft or floatation devices, and more particularly to personal pontoon boats. 
   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION AND RELATED ART 
   Lightweight and portable flotation devices, including pontoon boats, kick boats, float tubes, etc. have been increasingly popular in recent years, particularly with sport fishermen and white-water enthusiasts. Most of these devices rely upon inflatable tubes, pontoons, or bladders that consist of a thin, flexible membrane filled with pressurized air. These prior art devices are very lightweight and easily portable, and may be folded into a relatively compact shape. Prior art pontoons which are formed of a thin membrane such as vinyl are typically 0.015 inch thick. Others, such as polyurethane film are even thinner, such as about 0.009 inch. Such pontoons are generally uniform in thickness throughout, and are frequently heat-welded together from several flat pieces to form the tubular shape. 
   Because they are relatively thin, typical float tubes and pontoons are highly susceptible to puncture, such as from snagging fish hooks, rocks, branches, etc. Additionally, the sections of their construction are typically heat-welded together, creating seams that can present inherent weakness. Because of their thinness and pliability, when typical pontoons are punctured, they can collapse and lose their buoyancy. They can also be difficult to repair. Typical thin membrane pontoons are repaired in a manner similar to bicycle or automobile tires, using patches and chemical adhesives. Once repaired, the membrane may not be as strong as it was before. 
   Additionally, typical float tubes and pontoons are very susceptible to changes in temperature and barometric pressure. For example, many users first inflate their boat in the morning, when temperatures are cool. Then, by afternoon, when the ambient temperature has increased, the pontoon pressure will have increased such that air must be released from the pontoon to prevent it from bursting. When temperatures decrease again later in the day and toward evening, the pontoon pressure likewise drops, and the boat may no longer provide sufficient buoyancy. 
   Similarly, many pontoon boat users inflate their pontoons before leaving home, and then drive into a mountainous region at much higher altitude. In the course of gaining altitude, the barometric pressure and temperature will typically drop, increasing the relative pressure inside the pontoons, sometimes enough to cause the pontoon to burst. 
   Another problem with many prior art pontoons is that they are unnecessarily complex in their design. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   In light of the problems and deficiencies inherent in the prior art, the present invention seeks to overcome these by providing a modular personal flotation system, otherwise known as a pontoon boat or kick boat. The pontoon boat of the present invention comprises various modules, preferably molded in sections, that are fittable together to form one or more variants of a modular personal flotation system. For instance, the pontoon boat may comprise two separate rigid pontoon modules able to couple to and function with a separate seat module or seat assembly, also preferably molded. Each pontoon module may comprise cavities formed therein to accommodate gear and accessories, such as an asymmetric clover leaf rod or net holder. The rigid pontoon design makes inflation unnecessary and provides durability characteristics that make it particularly resistant to punctures. 
   The present invention features a modular personal pontoon boat that is portable and that comprises multiple modules, each having its own functional structure. For instance, the seat module has a functional structure configured to support a person on the pontoon boat, while the rigid pontoon modules have a functional structure to support both the seat module and an individual about the water. The modules of the pontoon boat are designed and intended to be removably coupled together, thus providing a break-down function and/or facilitating interchangeability with other modules. For instance, the seat module or seat assembly may be configured to detach from the pontoon modules in order to facilitate efficient transport in a vehicle or efficient storage. Alternatively, a damaged pontoon module may be easily interchanged with a new pontoon module. 
   The seat module may comprise a single structural component with no removable or assembled parts. Or, it may be made up of a plurality of components that fit together to form the seat module or at least a portion thereof. For instance, the seat may have a detachable seat back section. The seat module may couple directly to the pontoons, or it may couple to an intermediate frame module, which in turn is coupled to the pontoon modules. The seat module may be designed to hold one or more individuals, and may comprise various different ergonomic designs. The seat module may further comprise a luggage rack formed in the seat back section. 
   The pontoon modules comprise a hollow structure with a cavity formed therein, which cavities are designed to hold air. The pontoon modules further comprise a wall that defines the cavity, and that has a shape in the form of a tubular pontoon. The pontoons may also comprise one or more vent holes formed in the wall designed to facilitate the intake or purging of air. One or more fittings may be used to seal the vent holes and to prevent water from entering the vent holes during use of the pontoon boat. The fittings may be comprised of a sealing plug bonded into the vent hole, with a central bleeder screw that can be selectively removed by the user to allow the pontoon internal air pressure to equalize with ambient air pressure. This may be advantageous when shipping the pontoons as different destinations may have significantly different temperature or elevation changes. 
   The modularity of the pontoon modules allows them to be symmetrically configured so as to be interchangeable side to side and reversible front to back. Both ends of the pontoon modules may be given identical rounded, blunt shapes to remove the distinction between the bow end and stern end, and further allowing the pontoon modules to perform equally well during movement about the water in either direction. 
   In one exemplary embodiment the means for removably coupling the first and second rigid pontoon modules to the seat module may be integrally-formed with the modules themselves, such that each module is a self-contained unit which contains both the functional structure and the connection interface. In the case of the integrally-formed connection interface, the interface may be made from the same materials as the functional structure of the modules, or it could be made from a different material which is integrated into the operating structure either during or after its manufacture. 
   In another exemplary embodiment, the means for removably coupling the modules together comprises a flexible strap having hook and loop, snaps, buckles, or other similar types of fasteners operable therewith. For instance, the first and second rigid pontoon modules may be connected to the seat module by a system of low-cost nylon straps having hook and loop-type fastening strips, making for a secure assembly during use, while also enabling quick disassembly for transport or storage purposes. These straps can be used with a one-piece seat module, which eliminates complex connection systems typical of prior art pontoon boats or kick boats. 
   Alternatively, the straps can be configured to attach the pontoon modules to the seat module via an intermediate frame module, typically made of metal, which provides a connection interface altogether separate from the molded modules. The use of a metal frame module is particularly useful with larger models capable of supporting one or more occupants and having pontoon modules of greater size and flotation capacity. 
   The present invention further overcomes many of the problems of the prior art by providing a pontoon boat having various attractive design features. In some exemplary embodiments, the pontoon boat may comprise various modular components or modules comprised of rigid, seamless, hollow cavities, preferably formed by rotational or blow molding of a LLDPE (Linear Low Density Polyethylene) or HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) material. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings merely depict exemplary embodiments of the present invention they are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope. It will be readily appreciated that the components of the present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Nonetheless, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a perspective view of a modular pontoon boat in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 2  illustrates an exploded, perspective view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 3  illustrates a perspective view of a pontoon module in accordance with the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 4  illustrates an exploded, perspective view of a seat module in accordance with the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 5  illustrates a top view of a seat module in accordance with the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 6  illustrates an exploded, perspective view of a connection post and threaded connector in accordance with the embodiment of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 7  illustrates a sectional view of a connecting post, threaded connector and pontoon module in accordance with the embodiment of  FIG. 1  as seen from Section A-A identified in  FIG. 2 . 
       FIG. 8  illustrates front view of the embodiment of  FIG. 1  in both an unloaded and a loaded state; 
       FIG. 9  illustrates an exploded perspective view of a seat module and a pontoon module in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 10  illustrates a perspective view of a pontoon rod and net holder; 
       FIG. 11  illustrates a perspective view of a pontoon drain moat; 
       FIG. 12  illustrates a perspective and cross-sectional view of a pontoon bleeder valve; 
       FIG. 13  illustrates a perspective view of a modular pontoon boat in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 14  illustrates an exploded, perspective view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 13 , and 
       FIG. 15  illustrates a perspective view of a pontoon module in accordance with the embodiment of  FIG. 13 . 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS 
   The following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the invention makes reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof and in which are shown, by way of illustration, exemplary embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. While these exemplary embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, it should be understood that other embodiments may be realized and that various changes to the invention may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as claimed, but is presented for purposes of illustration only and not limitation to describe the features and characteristics of the present invention, to set forth the best mode of operation of the invention, and to sufficiently enable one skilled in the art to practice the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is to be defined solely by the appended claims. 
   Furthermore, the following detailed description and exemplary embodiments of the invention will be best understood by reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the elements and features of the invention are designated by numerals throughout. 
   The present invention describes a modular personal flotation system, otherwise known as a pontoon boat or kick boat, comprising a plurality of modular components fittable together to form one or more variants of a rigid pontoon boat. At least two of the modular components are rigid pontoons that can be attached to a seat module by a variety of means, including a connection interface which has been integrally formed into each module. 
   The modular pontoon boat of the present invention provides several significant advantages over prior related inflatable pontoon boats and kick boats, some of which are recited here and throughout the following more detailed descriptions. First, a rigid pontoon has superior durability characteristics to that of inflatable pontoons, such as being virtually immune to punctures, thus improving water safety for users. Other advantages of a rigid structure include not requiring periodic inflation and/or deflation, being more tolerant of significant relative temperature and pressure changes than inflatable pontoons, and not substantially deforming in shape. Second, by being formed from a plurality of modules, the pontoon boat may comprise several different design variants. Indeed, it is contemplated that each modular component or module may comprise several different designs, each being interchangeable and fittable together to form one or more pontoon boat variants. And lastly, by forming the connection interface integral with the modules the total number of parts can be reduced and assembly of the individual modules into a pontoon boat can be simplified. 
   Each of the above-recited advantages will be apparent in light of the detailed description set forth below, with reference to the accompanying drawings. These advantages are not meant to be limiting in any way. Indeed, one skilled in the art will appreciate that other advantages may be realized, other than those specifically recited herein, upon practicing the present invention. 
   With reference to  FIG. 1 , an exemplary embodiment of the modular personal flotation system  10  comprises first and second rigid pontoon modules  20  and a seat module or seat assembly  50 . The means for removably fastening the pontoon modules to the seat module will be shown forthwith in the following drawings. The top surface  36  of the pontoon module can be formed with a variety of specialized recesses for securing and keeping readily available equipment and gear commonly used by sport fishermen, such as a fishing rod  12 , an ice chest  14  or a drinking cup  16 . 
   The user can normally propel the small pontoon boat using swimming fins or flippers—hence the name, “kick boat.” Although not to be considered limiting in any way, the exemplary modules making up the various rigid pontoon boat variants are preferably comprised of rigid, seamless components, formed of a relatively thick LLDPE or HDPE polymer material, and having unique shape and features described in the claims. 
   Given the design, the pontoon boat described is almost completely resistant to loss of flotation. The rigid configuration of the pontoon portions of the structure also makes them relatively immune to pressure variations. Consequently, if a boat is transported when temperatures are low, the boat will keep its shape and not fail when ambient temperature increases or outside pressure drops significantly. This allows the boat to retain its full buoyancy in a much wider variety of conditions where a thin membrane inflatable boat will vary widely in its performance, sometimes requiring periodic inflation or deflation. 
   Several different processes may be used to form the pontoon boat modules, such as by rotational molding or by blow molding. In the rotational molding process, the polymer material in the form of a powder is placed inside a mold. The mold is then heated as it is rotated, causing the powder to melt inside, and form the desired item. Regulation of the temperatures of various portions of the mold can be used to control the wall thickness of the resulting product. Higher temperature areas produce a greater thickness than lower temperature areas. 
   Although the portable pontoon boat as described is preferably made of a LLDPE resin suitable for rotational molding, or HDPE for blow molding, other materials exhibiting similar capabilities will be readily substitutable and are contemplated herein  FIG. 2  is an exploded view of the exemplary embodiment  10  shown in  FIG. 1  and is illustrative of the integrally-formed connection interface which can connect the pontoon modules  20  to the seat module  50 . Each pontoon module can have a number of interior passages  30  or slots formed in the sidewalls which can be configured to receive a connection post  60  extending from the seat module. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the interior passages are sealed and pass all the way through each pontoon module to exit the far sidewall. However, in other embodiments the interior passage may not pass all the way through the pontoon module, but instead may terminate after proceeding a minimum distance into the module necessary to establish a connection strong enough to support the combined weight of the seat module and an occupant. The interior passages can also have tapered faces  32  inside the openings on both sides of the pontoon module to provide positive contact against complementary tapered surfaces of the seat module or threaded connector  80 . 
   Also shown in  FIG. 2  is the seat module  50  which can be separated into a seat bottom  54  and a seat back  70 . The seat bottom can be formed from the same material as the pontoon modules and can be sealed and hollow to provide a portion of the buoyancy for the complete modular flotation system. Likewise, the seat back can also be formed of the same material as the pontoon modules and can be coupled to the seat bottom using another variation of an integrally-formed connection interface. 
   In the illustrated exemplary embodiment the seat bottom is configured with four connecting posts, two per side, which are configured to fit snuggly inside complementary interior passages formed in the pontoon modules. The connection posts have threaded ends  62  configured to be rotationally engaged by a threaded connector  80 . Upon assembly and tightening, the threaded connector pushes upon the tapered surface  32  just inside the opening of the interior passage, forcing the pontoon module to ride directly onto the connection post and creating a frictional locking force between the outer surface of the connection post and the inner surface of the interior passage. Tightening the threaded connector can also press the tapered surface in the opposite opening of the interior passage directly against a complementary tapered surface  92  at the base of the connecting post. This supplements the frictional locking force created within the interior passage of the rigid pontoon module. 
   The rigid pontoon module  20  of the present invention is shown in  FIG. 3 . The pontoon modules each comprise a wall that defines their shape and internal cavity, and that are extremely resistant to punctures. The pontoon modules are capable of indefinitely retaining the air within their cavities. Advantageously, and unlike prior related designs, the pontoon sections require no inflation, such as via an air pump or air compressor. In addition, the walls can withstand relative pressure changes without substantial change or deformation in their shape. The top surface  36  of each pontoon module is contoured to be parallel to the water surface, and is uniquely equipped with specialized recesses to receive and stabilize equipment such as a fishing pole, a fish net, a small plastic tackle box, a fish finder, a dry box, a six-pack beverage cooler, and/or a cup or mug. These recesses can include a cup holder  38 , a rod and net holder  40 , a storage bin  42 , and an ice chest/utility box holder  44 . 
   Moreover, the pontoon modules may also be formed so as to comprise different sized and configured compartments molded inside the pontoon, such as a dry storage compartment  46  which is accessible through a friction plug  48 . The compartments may be used to secure and protect various items such as clothing or valuables from accidental loss or moisture. 
   The end sections  22  of the pontoon modules taper to rounded, blunt ends that enable the pontoon boat to be more easily propelled through the water via flippers. In one aspect, both ends of the pontoon modules may be given the identical shape, the distinction between a bow end and a stern end being removed and the pontoon modules being able to perform equally well during movement about the water in either direction. Moreover, the symmetrical configuration of the end sections facilitates interchangeability side to side and reversibility front to back with respect to the seat module. The end sections can also be formed with corner flanges  28  having holes providing additional functionality, such as allowing the user to attach a cord to tie off the pontoon boat while in the wilderness or store the pontoon boat when not in use. 
   According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the two interior passages  30  can be configured with different offset distances between the centerlines of the interior passages and the centerline of the pontoon module, which in effect moves the center of gravity of the assembled flotation system slightly away from the centerline of the pontoon module. By combining this feature with the capability of reversing the pontoon modules front to back, the assembled flotation system can provide multiple trim adjustments to better accommodate users of different sizes, shapes and weights. 
   Given the rigid and durable design, these pontoons are almost completely resistant to loss of flotation. The rigid configuration of the pontoons also makes them resistant to pressure variations. Consequently, if a pontoon is inflated at low altitude or when temperatures are low, the pontoon will keep its shape and not burst when ambient temperature increases or outside pressure drops significantly. This allows the pontoon to retain its full buoyancy in a much wider variety of conditions where a thin membrane inflatable will vary widely in its performance, sometimes requiring periodic inflation or deflation. 
   The end sections  22  are preferably thicker, or comprise an increased wall thickness, than the remainder of the pontoon. This thickness makes the end sections more resistant to damage from impact, etc., which is a high safety concern with inflatable pontoons. In addition, the end sections can be identically-shaped to allow the pontoon modules to be reversible front to back and interchangeable side to side with respect to the seat module. 
   The polymer material of the pontoons is easier to repair than prior art pontoons. They are molded of a thermoplastic material, when if cut or punctured, may be repaired simply by applying heat. Simply pressing a hot knife or other item against the damaged area causes the polymer material to bond together, usually resulting in a repair that is just as strong as the original undamaged material. Moreover, there is no need for unsightly patches, chemical adhesives, and the drawbacks that are associated with them. For additional repair strength, it is also possible to add more polymer material to the damaged area during the heating repair process. 
   Alternate processes are used to form the pontoon, by rotational molding or by blow molding. In the rotational molding process, the polymer material in the form of a powder is placed inside a mold. The mold is then heated as it is rotated, causing the powder to melt inside, and form the desired item. Regulations of the temperatures of various portions of the mold can be used to control the wall thickness of the resulting product. Higher temperature areas produce a greater thickness than lower temperature areas. 
   Although the portable pontoon boat as described is made of a LLDPE (Linear Low Density Polyethylene) resin suitable for rotational molding, other materials exhibiting similar capabilities will be readably substitutable. For example, any carbon polymer materials, particularly those suited for blow molding, can form the basic polymeric unit. 
   Although the embodiments of the invention discussed above and illustrated in the figures describe a modular rigid pontoon boat having two pontoon modules on either side of a removable seat module, wherein the pontoon boat is designed primarily for fishing or hunting, it is contemplated that the present invention may also be configured to form various other pontoon boat variants. For example, the concepts discussed herein may be used to form a pontoon boat used for low impact exercise. In this embodiment, the pontoon modules may be configured differently, if desired, as well as including grab or stability handles to improve kicking efficiency. One skilled in the art will appreciate the design of these and other exemplary embodiments. 
   The seat module  50  is shown with additional detail in  FIG. 4 . The seat module can comprise a single, unified structure providing both bottom and back support to an occupant. However, the seat module can also be separated into a seat bottom  54  and a seat back  70 , as shown in an exemplary embodiment. Separating the seat module into a bottom portion and a back portion provides several advantages. Firstly, it is easier to package and ship two relatively flat structures than a single rigid seat structure that has an “L” shaped profile. Secondly, it is possible to standardize on a seat bottom configuration while offering a variety of seat back options to better fit the wide range lower back configurations requested by customers. For instance, some users may prefer a flexible seat back face  72  to accommodate a more active fishing and casting style, while others may desire a firmer lumbar support to accommodate health issues with their lower backs. Separating the seat module into two different elements with a standard connection interfaces can better provide for user preferences while minimizing the size of the shipping container. The seat module may further comprise a luggage rack formed in the seat back section. 
   Referring again to  FIG. 4 , the seat bottom can have a molded seat  56  formed in the surface thereof to provide comfort to an occupant spending lengthily periods of time in the seat module. The molded seat can also have a series of drain holes  58  formed in its surface to help drain any splash water that may become trapped in the molded bottom. Moreover, if vehicle access to the water is restricted, the drain holes can be configured to double as slots to receive a backpacking harness, which may then be used to carry the pontoon boat over rough terrain by foot. For many adults, the exemplary embodiment of  FIG. 1  is light enough to carry for a short distance. The user only needs to attach the backpacking harness. 
   Moreover, in another aspect, a molded seat of a different size can be formed in the underside of the seat bottom, and the seat bottom can be configured to be reversible top to bottom to provide additional comfort to occupants of various sizes. 
   In an exemplary embodiment, the seat bottom is configured with four integrally-formed connecting posts  60  which are molded together with the seat bottom. The connecting posts are sized to fit within and extend all the way through the complementary interior passages of the rigid pontoon modules, with two connecting posts per pontoon module. The connecting posts have threaded ends  62  which are attachable by a threaded connector (not shown) which serve to couple and secure the pontoon modules and the seat module together. 
   The seat bottom can also have an integrally-formed support slot  64  on a top surface which is configured to be removably coupled with the support pedestals  74  of the seat back  70 . The support pedestals can have a bottom surface  76  which provides vertical support and alignment for the seat back, and in an exemplary embodiment may also have a detent tongue  78  which extends downward further than the support bottom. As shown in  FIG. 5 , the detent tongue is configured to engage a mating detent groove  68  located in the bottom of the support slot  64  when the bottom surface of the support pedestal lands against the flat face of the support slot bottom  66 . 
   The detent tongue of the support pedestal can further be configured to snap into a locking position within the detent groove of the support slot. For instance, both the detent tongue and the detent groove can be made of the same rigid thermoplastic used for the pontoon modules, which is rigid against changes in air pressure but slightly flexible under an applied load. Forming a slight protrusion on the surface of either structure which is aligned with a similarly sized and shaped indentation on a complementary surface allows the protrusion to snap into the indentation when the two structures are brought into the proper position. However, the detent tongue can still be pulled away from the detent groove if sufficient force is applied to temporarily deflect the protrusion enough to allow it to slip out of the indentation. 
     FIG. 6  further illustrates the interaction between the connection post  60  and the threaded connector  80 . The threaded connector functions in a manner similar to a common wing nut, only much larger. The connector has a tubular body  82  with threads  84  formed in the inner surface. The threads are configured to engage with the threaded end  62  of the connection post. The pitch and length of the threads can be set up to draw the threaded connector up the length of the threaded portion of the connection post with roughly a single rotation of the threaded connector. 
   The threaded connector has a circular handle  86  which can be used to directly turn the connector by hand, without the requirement for any additional tooling. Indeed, it is desirable to prevent the use of tooling such wrenches and plies which can easily damage thermoplastic components of the exemplary embodiments. Configuring the threaded connector to be hand tightened is a distinct advantage over the prior art as it greatly facilitates the assembly of the modular pontoon boat, especially when assembly transpires in a wilderness setting where tools may not be readily available. The handle can further be sub-divided into a number of curved sections or finger grooves  88  which allow for easier grasping of the threaded connector. The circular handle is connected to the tubular body by a transition portion that comprises a tapered face  90 . 
   The interaction between the connection post of the seat module, the internal passage of the pontoon module and the threaded connector is shown in the cross-sectional drawing of  FIG. 7  as taken along cross-section A-A, originally identified in  FIG. 2 . In  FIG. 7 , the connection post  60  of the seat module  50  has been introduced into the internal passage  30  of the pontoon module  20 . Threaded connector  80  has also been inserted into the opposite end of the internal passage and rotationally engaged with the threaded end of the connection post, drawing the threaded connector up the connection post until the tapered face  90  of the threaded connector comes into contact with the complimentary tapered face  32  of the pontoon module. Continued turning of the threaded connector forces the pontoon module further up the connection post until the tapered face  32  on the opposite end of the internal passage comes into contact with tapered face  92  at the base of the connection post. Upon reaching this position, the pontoon module becomes firmly attached to the seat module. 
   The connection post can also have a tapered section  94  have a lesser degree of taper than tapered face  92 , but nonetheless is configured to contact a section of the internal passage  96  formed with a matching shallow degree taper. These two surfaces of the connection post and the internal passage can be configured to contact each other simultaneous with the contact of the other tapered faces, but because of the smaller degree of taper the corresponding area of contact is much larger inside the internal passage, and having a greater contact area results in a larger frictional force acting to secure the modules together. 
   Also illustrated in  FIG. 7  is the slight downward incline angle  52  of the connection post  60  relative to the seat module  50  as it extends away from the seat module. The connection post can be given the downward angle to initially orient the pontoon modules  20 , or more specifically, to initially orient the top surface  36  of the pontoon modules, on an incline leading away from the seat module. In an exemplary embodiment the downward angle is approximately 3 degrees. 
   Incline angle  52  is further illustrated in  FIG. 8(   a ), which shows an exemplary embodiment of the pontoon boat  10  in which both pontoon modules  20  are given a downward incline relative to the seat module  50 , or more particularly, to seat bottom  54 . The pontoon modules are configured with an angled alignment to facilitate the leveling of the top surface  36  of the pontoon modules after an applied load  98  has been applied to the seat bottom, as shown in  FIG. 8(   b ). Such an applied load can be created by the weight of an occupant. Configuring the connection posts, and therefore the pontoon modules, with an initial incline angle provides advantages over the prior art by compensating for the inherent flexibility in a modular personal flotation system to create a level working surface for occupants of the pontoon boat when in use. 
     FIG. 9  is illustrative of another exemplary embodiment  110  of the present invention in which the connection interface between the seat module  120  and the pontoon module  114  is a single winglet  122  configured to fit into a side slot  116  in the pontoon module. The side slot can extend all the way through pontoon module, or can only extend as far as necessary to provide an adequate connection interface between the seat module and the pontoon modules. 
   An additional aspect of a pontoon module  140  of the present invention is displayed in  FIG. 10(   a ), in which a fishing tool  148  such as a fishing rod is received and removably secured by a rod and net holder  142 . As further shown in  FIG. 10(   b ), the rod and net holder  142  can have an asymmetric cloverleaf configuration in which a number of circular peripheral lobes  144  surround and connect with a central recess  146 . The lobes can be of varying diameters to match the handle diameters of common fishing tools, such as fishing rods, fishing nets and the like. The lobes and central recess can also be formed with sufficient depth to secure a fishing tool that is simultaneously secured in the both the central recess and a peripheral lobe, such as a fly fishing rod and reel, wherein the reel is located at the base of the fly fishing rod and received partially within a lobe. 
   Another novel aspect of a pontoon module  160  of the present invention is illustrated in  FIG. 11 , in which a drain moat  164  is formed inside the perimeter walls former the ice chest and utility box recess  162 . In an exemplary embodiment, the ice chest and utility box recess is located in a center portion of a pontoon module and can be the largest of the special recesses molded into the top surface of a pontoon module. The opening  168  to the dry storage compartment can be located within the ice chest and utility box recess. To ensure that no splash water is retained within the recess and allowed to seep into the dry storage compartment, the drain moat can be formed inside the perimeter walls bounding the recess and can be fluidly connected to one or more drain slots  166 . The moat and the drain slots operate to direct away any water that may splash into the recess and to prevent any water or moisture from seeping down onto the contents or valuables stored underneath, as well as to quickly drain water that may otherwise fill the interior of the pontoon module. 
     FIG. 12(   a ) and  FIG. 12(   b ) illustrate a bleeder valve assembly  180  according to one exemplary embodiment. Indeed, the pontoon modules may also comprise one or more vent holes formed in their wall  182  designed to facilitate the intake or purging of air. One or more fittings may be used to seal the vent holes and to prevent water from entering the vent holes during use of the kick boat. The fittings may be comprised of a sealing plug, such as freeze plug  184 , bonded into the vent hole with a bonding material  188 , with a central bleeder screw  186  or bleeder valve that can be selectively removed by the user to allow the pontoon internal air pressure to equalize with ambient air pressure. As shown, the bleeder valve comprises a freeze plug having a recessed portion and an aperture formed in the recessed portion. A separate bleeder screw is operable with and removable from the aperture in the freeze plug to selectively open or seal the aperture, and thus to facilitate the intake or purging of air from the pontoon modules. 
   Another exemplary embodiment  200  of the modular personal flotation system of the present invention is illustrated in  FIG. 13 . This embodiment is similar to those discussed above in that it also comprises first and second rigid pontoon modules  220  and a seat module or seat assembly  250 . However, a frame module  270  has been interposed between the pontoon modules and the seat module to allow for additional features and advantages, such as a higher elevation of the seat module to facilitate the operation of a pair of oars  280 . The pontoon modules themselves can be larger to create the greater buoyancy force required by the higher seat module location. The frame module can attach to the top surface  236  of the pontoon modules and can be made of metal to provide the necessary strength and rigidity to function as an alternative connection interface between the pontoon modules and the seat module. Furthermore, and similar to the previously discussed embodiments, the top surface of the pontoon module can be formed with a variety of specialized recesses for securing and keeping readily available equipment and gear commonly used by sport fishermen, such as a fishing rod  212 , an ice chest  214  or a drinking cup  216 . 
     FIG. 14  is an exploded view of the embodiment  200  shown in  FIG. 13  and is illustrative of the features provided by a frame module  270  interposed between the seat module  250  and the pontoon modules  220 . The use of a intermediate frame module allows the seat module to be positioned above the pontoon modules and at a location further removed from the water, which can be advantageous if the user desires to stay dry when fishing. Moreover, the use of a metal frame module which may be configured to be stronger and stiffer than a molded structure of equivalent size allows the pontoon modules to be larger and spaced further apart. In an exemplary embodiment the frame module is made from aircraft quality aluminum segments that have been TIG welded together to form a strong, structurally rigid support structure. 
   While the user is still close enough to the water to propel the boat using swimming fins or flippers, the additional height of the seat module and width between the pontoon modules can allow the user to generate sufficient leverage to operate a pair of oars  280 . The oars can be mounted on oar supports  282  which can be located on the periphery of the frame to maximize the mechanical advantage to the user. In addition, the frame module can provide a pair of foot rests  276  to help the user apply more force when operating the oars, or simply to support the legs in a relaxed position while drifting. The foot rests can be adjustable such that the occupant may move them both forward and back to find the most comfortable position as well as pivot them out of the way if the user decides to place his feet in the water. The frame module can also provide a pair of arm rests  274 . 
   As the seat module is entirely above the water and does not contribute to the buoyancy of the exemplary embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 14 , the seat module can be made with different configurations and materials. For instance, the seat module can be constructed with a folding seat back  254  that collapses against the seat bottom  252  when the pontoon boat is place in storage. And as it is less likely to come into contact with the water, the seat back can be padded to provide additional comfort to the occupant. The seat bottom can be attached to the frame module by any standard fastening method, including bolting and welding. 
   The configuration of the pontoon modules can also be modified to reflect the changes in the connection interface between the frame module and the pontoon modules. The top surface of the module  236  can be configured with a flat recess or support groove  230  to accommodate a support section  272  of the frame module. In the exemplary embodiment, the support groove is continuous from one side of the pontoon module to the other and with a length suitable enough to permit a short amount of front-to-back movement of the frame module within the groove. This front-to-back play in the location of the frame module on top of the pontoon modules allows the user to make trim adjustments and ensure that the frame and seat modules ride level on the pontoon modules. 
   The frame module can be removably coupled to the pontoon module using a connection interface comprised of different types, such as a flexible strap having hook and loop, snaps, buckles, or other similar types of fasteners operable therewith (not shown). For instance, the first and second rigid pontoon modules may be connected to the frame module by a system of low-cost nylon straps having hook and loop-type fastening strips, making for a secure assembly during use, while also enabling quick disassembly for transport or storage purposes. In another embodiment, the first and second pontoon modules may be coupled to the frame module using a strap having one or more cam-lock metal buckles. Those skilled in the art will recognize the many different types of connections that may be used. 
   The rigid pontoon module  220  of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 13  is shown in  FIG. 15 . As described hereinbefore, the pontoon modules each comprise a wall that defines their shape and internal cavity and are extremely resistant to punctures. The pontoon modules can be made of a thermoplastic material using rotational molding, blow molding or other similar process. The pontoons modules are capable of indefinitely retaining the air within their cavities and require no inflation. In addition, the walls can withstand relative pressure changes without substantial change or deformation in their shape. 
   The top surface  236  of each pontoon module is contoured to be parallel to the water surface, and is uniquely equipped with specialized recesses to receive and stabilize equipment such as a fishing pole, a fish net, a small plastic tackle box, a fish finder, a dry box, a six-pack beverage cooler, and/or a cup or mug. These recesses can include a cup holder  238 , a rod and net holder  240 , a storage bin  242 , and an ice chest/utility box holder  244 . The top surface can also be configured with two support grooves  130  which contact and removably couple the frame module, as previously described. 
   Moreover, the pontoon modules may also be formed so as to comprise different sized and configured compartments molded inside the pontoon, such as a dry storage compartment (not shown) which is accessible through a friction plug (not shown). The recesses may be used to secure and protect various items such as clothing or valuables from accidental loss or moisture. 
   The end sections  222  of the pontoon modules taper to rounded, blunt ends that enable the pontoon boat to be more easily propelled through the water via flippers or oars. As both ends of the pontoon modules are given the identical shape, the distinction between a bow end and a stern end is removed and the pontoon modules perform equally well during movement about the water in either direction. Moreover, the symmetrical configuration of the end sections allows the pontoon modules to be interchanged side to side and reversed front to back, as discussed above in relation to  FIGS. 1-12 . 
   The foregoing detailed description describes the invention with reference to specific exemplary embodiments. However, it will be appreciated that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims. The detailed description and accompanying drawings are to be regarded as merely illustrative, rather than as restrictive, and all such modifications or changes, if any, are intended to fall within the scope of the present invention as described and set forth herein. 
   More specifically, while illustrative exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described herein, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, but includes any and all embodiments having modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across various embodiments), adaptations and/or alterations as would be appreciated by those in the art based on the foregoing detailed description. The limitations in the claims are to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited to examples described in the foregoing detailed description or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive. For example, in the present disclosure, the term “preferably” is non-exclusive where it is intended to mean “preferably, but not limited to.” Any steps recited in any method or process claims may be executed in any order and are not limited to the order presented in the claims. Means-plus-function or step-plus-function limitations will only be employed where for a specific claim limitation all of the following conditions are present in that limitation: a) “means for” or “step for” is expressly recited; and b) a corresponding function is expressly recited. The structure, material or acts that support the means-plus function are expressly recited in the description herein. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined solely by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the descriptions and examples given above.