Input on building bimini please

[SanDiegoChip]

Hi,
We are going to commission our bimin project out soon to have the frame built and the cover made. We would like some input on what should or would make a good bimini. We made our last one on our Catalina 30 so we have some knowledge on the subject.

We know it needs to be high enough to stand under with a hat on if possible. I am 6’ and there will be 1 inch of cockpit covering.

It needs to still fit the solar panels and possibly under the boom.

It will need to support three or four 135 Watt or so solar panels.

Will that require stern rail re-enforcement along the sides? We plan on re-enforcing the stern rail on the stern for dingy davits.

It should go far enough aft but how far?

It should shed rain outside of the cockpit.

It will have a piece attached to the dodger.

What are any thoughts on a window to see sail trim in the bimini?

What about thoughts on the tubing placement or style for access to the grill and wind generator pole? Also free elbow room to the T part of the T cockpit?

I kinda like the one attached that is of sister boat (Islander Freeport 36'). It seems to go to stern enough and we plan on having dingy davits. The frame would need to be different. This baot has a heard dodger top.

How far forward should it come or can it come and still see sail trim?

I was thinking at one time it could have another piece on the aft part that could fold out and down a bit for further shade. Kind of and extended awning. Good bad idea?

Thanks for your imput in advace,
Chip
s/v Elegant'sea IF36-B

[Architeuthis]

Ideas? Be sure it all comes apart easy. Some of mine is riveted for strength but then it only breaks down so are.

Hand holds. You will grap it going in and out and places like the stern were you will want to hang off it. It'll happen, I plan to install hand holds so I'm not grabbing the fabric or unsupported part.

They all interfer with seeing the sails, other boats, and everything else. Putting solar panels on the top is not going to help that. Make the window in the top larger than you think you need. Ours is too small but about average.

[scottyt]

if you putting panels on it i would make it like an arch. then you have davits off the back of it. also hang the panels off the back on the davits and maybe set one up to swing down for more shade. make it like CD's but attach the back of the bimini to the arch

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