Electronic catfish clonk for generating frequency-controlled underwater pressure waves to attract catfish (Siluris glanis)

Abstract

Device for generating frequency-controlled underwater acoustic pressure waves to attract catfish (Silurus glanis), comprising: a waterproof sound generator housing with a planar, vibrating membrane plate; an electromechanical vibration-generating element arranged inside the housing, preferably designed as an electrodynamic linear actuator; an electronic unit with voltage conversion and power amplification circuitry; and a mounting device for detachably positioning the sound generator housing in the water; wherein the electronic unit is designed such that the frequency, pulse rate, pulse duration, and pause time are variably parameterizable and the generated pressure pulses cover a frequency spectrum optimized for the attraction behavior of catfish.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a device for generating underwater acoustic pressure wave signals, in particular for replicating the impulses generated by a catfish stick to attract catfish (Silurus glanis). State of the art

[0002] Known electronic systems play back recorded audio signals via underwater speakers and do not generate sufficiently steep pressure increases. Mechanical catfish sticks require manual operation, are irregular in their stroke frequency and intensity, and, if used improperly, lead to user errors that do not attract fish but rather scare them away. Additionally, they produce disruptive noise above the water's surface and create spray in the boat. Manual use is particularly difficult on larger predator fishing boats with elevated seating or standing positions, as it is hard to maintain a consistent angle and force of strike. Object of the invention

[0003] Provision of a compact, robust, and battery-operated device that generates uniform, reproducible pressure waves with steep pressure increases without manual operation. The frequency spectrum of these waves is experimentally determined or calculated and optimized to target the attraction behavior of catfish (Silurus glanis). The device should be barely perceptible and non-disruptive above the water's surface, produce no splashing water in the boat, and ensure reliable signal transmission – even on larger boats or from the shore. Experimental results

[0004] Tests have shown that the responsiveness of catfish can be significantly improved with the device according to the invention. Mechanical catfish lures practically only generate a fixed or only partially variable frequency and allow for imprecise manual control of intensity and interval. The device according to the invention enables very weak to very strong pressure pulses and covers a broad spectrum of stimulus frequencies, which keeps the fish curious for longer and prevents them from becoming desensitized too quickly. A particular advantage is that the pulse spectrum corresponds to the optimal frequency range for the stimuli elicited by catfish. Energy efficiency and operating time

[0005] The device is designed for operation with standard low-voltage power sources, such as 12-volt batteries. The internal electronics automatically adjust the supply voltage to the requirements of the vibration-generating element. This also allows operation with higher input voltages without affecting functionality or signal quality. The low power consumption enables energy-efficient operation for several hours to days, especially in automatic intermittent mode. Ease of use and flexibility

[0006] The system is controlled wirelessly via a mobile application on smartphones or tablets. This leaves the angler with both hands free, allowing them to fully concentrate on fishing. Frequency, intensity, interval, and pause time can be adjusted as needed; an automatic mode delivers the selected pulses independently over a defined period, while pulses can be triggered manually at any time. Further advantages of the invention

[0007] The device features a powerful electromechanical actuator with high lifting force, enabling precise and reproducible pulse shaping. The vibration-resistant and robust housing is designed for continuous operation, ensuring reliable function even under harsh conditions on the water. Even at maximum output, the device exhibits low airborne noise emissions above the waterline and is not disruptive to the surrounding environment. The fully enclosed design prevents splashing into the boat and facilitates handling. The electronic unit is maintenance-free and requires no calibration; it is ready for immediate use (plug-and-play). A stainless steel diaphragm ensures corrosion resistance and a long service life. A soft-start function with a power-on delay protects the diaphragm and power supply from voltage spikes during startup and increases the overall lifespan.Operation in the low-voltage range is safe; the device is cold-resistant down to -10 °C and therefore suitable for year-round use. Thanks to its simple mounting on standard transom poles and its positioning on the transom, the system is universally retrofittable and suitable for both experienced users and beginners. Example of implementation (Fig. 1)

[0008] As in Fig.As shown schematically in Figure 1, the sound generator housing (6) with diaphragm plate (7) is attached to the transducer pole (2) via the circumferential fixing clamp (5). The transducer pole is detachably mounted to the transom (13) by means of a transducer bracket / clamp (1). A lower mounting block / adapter (4) positions the cylinder flush; the clamp / clip (3) provides transverse decoupling. The connecting cable (9) leads to the electronics case (10) and is connected to an external battery (12) via a quick-connect fitting (11). The waterline (WL) defines the immersion depth of the diaphragm. Parts list 1 Transducer bracket / clamp holder (screw clamp on the transom) 2 Transmitter rods (preferably GRP) 3 clamps / clips on the transmitter rod for attaching the crossbar (rubber-decoupled) 4 Lower mounting block / adapter on the transmitter rod (flush with the cylinder) 5 Circumferential fixing clamps on the housing 6 Sound generator housings (complete cylinder) 7 Membrane plate (bottom, stainless steel) 8 Housing connection spigots / cover with feedthrough (actuator inside, not shown) 9. Supply / signal cable from the case to the housing along the transmitter rod 10 electronics cases (waterproof, control / power unit) 11 Quick-connect / coupling connection of the power supply 12 External 12V battery 13 Transom (mounting surface of the boat) WL Waterline (Reference)

Claims

[1] Device for generating frequency-controlled underwater acoustic pressure waves for attracting catfish (Silurus glanis), comprising: a waterproof sound generator housing with a planar, vibrating membrane plate; an electromechanical vibration-generating element arranged inside the housing, preferably designed as an electrodynamic linear actuator; an electronic unit with voltage conversion and power amplification circuitry; and a fastening device for detachably positioning the sound generator housing in the water; wherein the electronic unit is designed such that the frequency, pulse rate, pulse duration and pause time are variably parameterizable and the generated pressure pulses cover a frequency spectrum optimized for the attraction behavior of catfish. [2] Device according to claim 1, characterized bythat the electronic unit has a wireless radio connection and can be controlled via a mobile application on a smartphone or tablet. [3] Device according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized by , that operating modes are provided for single pulses, multiple pulses, frequency sweeps, escape noises and an automatic mode. [4] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by that the output power is continuously adjustable from 0% to 100%. [5] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by that the electronic unit has overcurrent, reverse polarity and short-circuit protection. [6] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by, that the device can be operated with an external low-voltage source and has internal voltage adjustment, enabling energy-efficient operation for several hours to days with commercially available 12-volt batteries or comparable low-voltage sources. [7] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by that the sound generator housing is waterproof up to an operating pressure of 16 bar and remains functional in a temperature range of -10 °C to +60 °C. [8] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by that the electronic unit has a soft-start function with a switch-on delay to protect the diaphragm and power supply from voltage spikes. [9] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by that the membrane plate is made of stainless steel. [10] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized bythat the fastening device comprises a detachable transducer rod, preferably made of GRP or an electrically non-conductive material, which can be mounted on the transom of a boat. [11] Device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by that the fastening device includes an elastomeric vibration decoupling to reduce the transmission of structure-borne noise to the boat.

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