Winding device

Abstract

This invention generally relates to a winding device and more particularly to an apparatus and method to rewind the line of marker buoys, pre-strung blanks, kite string reels, and similar objects. In general the winding device comprises a turning receiver adapted to contact the outer surface of one end of the object to be rewound and, with power from a power source, to rotate the object to rewind the line. The winding device also comprises an end piece adapted to contact the outer surface of the other end of the object and to hold the object in a desired position for rewinding. A winding device of the present invention may rewind the line of a variety of sizes, shapes and configurations of such objects.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] Priority is claimed from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 511,822 filed Oct. 15, 2003. The entire disclosure of this provisional application is considered to be part of the disclosure herein and is incorporated by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] This invention generally relates to a winding device and more particularly to an apparatus and method-to rewind the line of marker buoys, pre-strung blanks, kit string reels, and the like. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] A marker buoy is a floating device to mark a specific location on a body of water. Typically, a marker buoy includes a length of up to about 150 or more feet of line wrapped around the center and terminating with a lead weight. Marker buoys come in various sizes and shapes, and typically are barbell-like shaped, i.e., with opposing bulbous shaped ends to provide flotation connected with a connecting shaft for the line to wrap around. In existing marker buoys,...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Without the use of one or more marker buoys, the fisherman would not know if he is still in the desired location, due to a variety of factors, such as wind drift or actually catching a fish and losing his position in the middle of the lake.

A major drawback to using marker buoys is the time and aggravation required to rewind the line back around the buoy once the user decides to change locations.

Not only is this time consuming, it often is a considerable aggravation, particularly with cold water or inclement weather.

In addition to requiring a specially designed marker buoy, and thereby not working for existing marker buoys, this required tools that are not necessarily designed for open water environment and thereby susceptible to water damage.

Again, this winder would not work with any existing marker buoys, let alone a variety of marker buoys, but rather required a specially designed marker buoy.

Also, the detents in the specially designed marker buoy would be susceptible to clogging from mud, gravel, small rocks and other debris, which would require the user to inspect the detents before rewinding and clean them, if necessary.

As a result of their protrusion into the housing, the drive shaft and support shaft would be susceptible to breaking, bending or other damage to the two shafts themselves, as well as to other objects and users.

Further, this winder was not adaptable to a variety of shapes, sizes and configurations of existing marker buoys, among other shortcomings.

However, the receiver generally was not adapted to rewind different types or styles of marker buoys.

That device also did not support the other end of the marker buoy during rewinding or transport.

Images