Braking device and fishing reel provided with same

Abstract

Provided are: a braking device capable of performing braking according to a spool rotation speed during casting, performing braking according to the spool rotation speed by centrifugal brake shoes capable of dynamically changing braking characteristics during casting, and achieving both improvement of casting distance and prevention of backlash; and a fishing reel equipped with the braking device. A braking device according to one embodiment of the present invention can be attached to a fishing reel having: a spool that is provided so as to be rotatable relative to a reel body and can wind a fishing line; and an operation unit that is provided to the reel body and rotates a rotor. The braking device is configured to comprise: centrifugal brake shoes that are provided to the spool and generate a braking force corresponding to the rotational speed of the spool; a friction member that is provided to the reel body and receives a first frictional force from the centrifugal brake shoes; an adjustment mechanism that can adjust the braking force by moving the friction member; a drive source that drives the adjustment mechanism; and a control unit that controls the drive source.

Description

Braking device, and fishing reel equipped therewith

[0001] This application claims priority under Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-190418 (filed October 30, 2024), the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The present invention relates to a braking device that enables both improved casting distance and prevention of backlash, and a fishing reel equipped therewith.

[0002] Conventionally, in double-bearing reels used for casting, a braking force is generated on the spool to prevent backlash that occurs when the spool's rotation speed exceeds the line payout speed during casting. One such spool braking device is the centrifugal braking device, which uses the centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the spool to brake the spool.

[0003] For example, in Patent Document 1, there is provided a spool braking device for a double-bearing reel having a reel body, a spool rotatably mounted within the reel body, and a handle rotatably mounted on one side of the reel body, the spool braking device for the double-bearing reel braking the spool, comprising: a first friction plate capable of contacting one end of the rotation axis of the spool; a second friction plate capable of contacting the other end of the rotation axis; and an adjustment member provided on the reel body for moving the first friction plate in the axial direction of the rotation axis. The first braking mechanism brakes the spool by sandwiching the rotation axis between the first friction plate and the second friction plate. A rotating member is disposed on the side of the spool opposite to the handle mounting side, is non-axially movable with respect to the rotation axis, and is rotatable in conjunction with at least the rotation of the spool in the yarn payout direction. The rotating member has a first end and a second end opposite to the first end, and at least one brake shoe swingably mounted on the rotating member between the first end and the center of gravity. A brake drum is disposed radially inward of the brake shoe, is capable of contacting the first end of the swinging brake shoe, and has a tapered surface on its outer peripheral surface whose outer diameter gradually increases toward the adjustment member. A moving mechanism is provided for axially moving and positioning the brake drum with respect to the rotation axis. The double-bearing reel spool braking device further comprises a second braking mechanism for braking the spool by centrifugal force, which is disclosed.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-000086

[0005] However, in the fishing reel according to Patent Document 1, due to being manually controlled, there is a problem that it is impossible to change the dynamic braking characteristics during casting.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a braking device capable of performing braking according to the spool rotation speed during casting and enabling dynamic change of the braking characteristics during casting, and a fishing reel equipped with the same, which can achieve both an increase in casting distance and prevention of backlash. Other objects of the present invention will become apparent by referring to the entire specification.

[0007] A braking device according to one embodiment of the present invention is a braking device that can be attached to a fishing reel having a spool that is rotatably mounted relative to a reel body and on which fishing line can be wound, and an operating part provided on the reel body for rotating a rotor, and comprises a centrifugal brake shoe provided on the spool that generates a braking force corresponding to the rotational speed of the spool, a friction member provided on the reel body that receives a first frictional force from the centrifugal brake shoe, an adjustment mechanism that allows the braking force to be adjusted by moving the friction member, a drive source that drives the adjustment mechanism, and a control unit that controls the drive source.

[0008] In a braking device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the braking force by moving the friction member such that the magnitude of the first friction force changes depending on the contact position with the centrifugal brake shoe.

[0009] In a braking device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the adjustment mechanism is configured to move the friction member in the axial direction of the spool.

[0010] A braking device according to one embodiment of the present invention further comprises a mechanical brake shoe provided on the spool and generating a braking force that does not change according to the rotational speed of the spool, the friction member receives a second frictional force from the mechanical brake shoe, and the adjustment mechanism is configured to adjust the braking force by moving the friction member such that the magnitude of the second frictional force changes depending on the contact position with the mechanical brake shoe.

[0011] In a braking device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the friction member is a single member that is movable via the adjustment mechanism by a single drive source.

[0012] In a braking device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the friction member is configured to change the positions of both the centrifugal brake shoe and the mechanical brake shoe by arranging them so that the range of movement of the centrifugal brake shoe and the mechanical brake shoe overlaps with the range of movement of the friction member.

[0013] In a braking device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the centrifugal brake shoe and the mechanical brake shoe are arranged on the same end side of the spool, the friction member is formed in a cylindrical shape and has a tapered surface formed on the end side of the spool, and the adjustment mechanism is configured to change the relative position of the friction member with respect to the adjustment mechanism by converting the drive from the drive source into axial movement of the spool to move the friction member.

[0014] A braking device according to one embodiment of the present invention further comprises a spool shaft provided on the spool and a support member provided on the reel body that pivotally supports the spool shaft, wherein the support member is configured to guide the axial movement of the friction member with its outer circumferential surface.

[0015] In a braking device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the mechanical brake shoe is arranged to move in the axial direction of the spool.

[0016] In a braking device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the centrifugal brake shoe and the mechanical brake shoe are arranged on the spool at positions facing each other in the radial direction of the spool.

[0017] A braking device according to one embodiment of the present invention is further configured to include a power supply that supplies power to the control unit and the drive source.

[0018] In a braking device according to one embodiment of the present invention, the drive source is a motor.

[0019] A fishing reel according to one embodiment of the present invention is configured to include any of the above-described braking devices.

[0020] According to the above embodiment, braking can be performed according to the spool rotation speed during casting, and braking can be performed according to the spool rotation speed by centrifugal brake shoes that allow for dynamic changes in braking characteristics during casting, thereby providing a braking device that can achieve both improved casting distance and prevention of backlash, and a fishing reel equipped therewith.

[0021] This is a cross-sectional view of a baitcasting reel 1 equipped with a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, fractured on a plane passing through the spool shaft when the braking force is high. This is a cross-sectional view of a baitcasting reel 1 equipped with a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, fractured on a plane passing through the spool shaft when the braking force is low. This is an exploded perspective view of some of the components of a baitcasting reel 1 equipped with a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. This is a cross-sectional perspective view of the configuration of the adjustment mechanism of the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. (a) This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the details of the adjustment mechanism of the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, and (b) This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the details of the adjustment mechanism of the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. This is a diagram illustrating the connection state of an electrical circuit including the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. This is a diagram illustrating the throwing of a lure or other throwable object using a fishing reel 1 equipped with a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] The braking device according to the present invention and embodiments of a fishing reel equipped therewith will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Components common to multiple drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals throughout the drawings. Please note that for the sake of clarity, each drawing is not necessarily drawn to an exact scale.

[0023] The fishing reel according to one embodiment of the present invention is of a type known as a double-bearing reel. First, the configuration of a general double-bearing reel, including the fishing reel according to one embodiment of the present invention, and the causes of backlash and methods for preventing it will be briefly explained.

[0024] In a double-bearing reel, such as a fishing reel according to one embodiment of the present invention, a spool on which fishing line can be wound is rotatably supported on the fishing reel body (frame). The user can rotate the spool in the forward direction (winding direction) using an operating part (operating means) such as a conventionally known handle, thereby winding fishing line onto the spool.

[0025] The double-bearing reel has a known clutch (not shown), which, when engaged, can transmit driving force from the operating means to the spool 2. On the other hand, when disengaged, the spool becomes rotatable, and in this state, applying an external force to the fishing line can cause the spool to rotate in the release direction.

[0026] When the spool's rotation speed exceeds the release speed of the lure or other projectile, slack occurs in the line, and if the amount of slack increases, line tangling (backlash) occurs. To prevent line tangling (backlash), a braking device is used to generate braking force on the spool. However, if this braking force is too great, it leads to a decrease in casting distance, while if the braking force is too small, the risk of line tangling (backlash) increases.

[0027] Next, a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4. The braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention is attached to a baitcasting reel 1, and Figures 1 to 4 show the configuration of a baitcasting reel 1 equipped with the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of a baitcasting reel 1 equipped with the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, broken across the plane passing through the spool shaft in a low braking force state. Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a baitcasting reel 1 equipped with the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, broken across the plane passing through the spool shaft in a high braking force state. Figure 3 shows an exploded perspective view of some of the components of a baitcasting reel 1 equipped with the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional perspective view of the configuration of the adjustment mechanism of the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] A baitcasting reel 1 equipped with a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a spool 2 on which fishing line can be wound, a frame (reel body) 3, a side plate 4, an operating part (handle) that can be rotated by the user, a transmission mechanism (gear, clutch) that transmits the rotational motion of the operating part (handle) to the spool, and a braking device 10 that can apply braking force to the spool 2.

[0029] The spool 2 is formed in a generally cylindrical shape, and fishing line can be wound around its outer circumference. Both ends are rotatably supported relative to the reel body 3 by bearings 21 and 22. When the spool 2 rotates forward, fishing line can be wound in, and when it rotates backward, fishing line can be released. Bearing 21 is fixed to the reel body 3, and bearing 22 is fixed to the reel body 3 via a side plate 4.

[0030] The user can rotate the spool 2 in the forward direction by operating the operating part (handle). The rotation of the operating part is transmitted to the spool 2 via a transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism consists of known reduction mechanisms, clutch mechanisms, and drag mechanisms. An example of a reduction mechanism is a gear speed-increasing mechanism or reduction mechanism consisting of a drive gear supported coaxially with the operating part and a pinion gear supported coaxially with the spool 2, which transmits the rotational operation of the operating part to the spool 2 at double speed or with double force.

[0031] Furthermore, the user can switch the power transmission state from the operating unit via the clutch mechanism. When the clutch mechanism is released, power transmission from the operating unit is disabled, and in this state, applying an external force to the fishing line allows the fishing line to be released. When the clutch mechanism is set to the transmission state, power transmission from the operating unit becomes possible, and in this state, operating the operating unit allows the fishing line to be reeled in. Note that the operating unit and transmission mechanism are equivalent to those used in known baitcasting reels, and therefore are not shown in the illustrations of this invention. Also, the baitcasting reel 1 may have known oscillator mechanisms, drag mechanisms, etc.

[0032] Next, a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. The configuration of the braking device 10 of the present invention will be described with reference to the figures. The braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention consists of a centrifugal brake shoe 11, a mechanical brake shoe 12, a spring member 13, a friction member 14, an adjustment mechanism 15, a motor 16, a power supply (for example, a battery) 17, a control board 18, and a watertight case 19.

[0033] The centrifugal brake shoe 11 is rotatably supported on the spool 2 by a rotation axis 111 that is offset from the rotation axis of the spool 2 (a vertical or nearly vertical axis). The rotation axis 111 is the center of gravity (center of gravity portion) 112 on one side and the contact portion 113 on the other. When the spool 2 rotates at high speed, a centrifugal force is generated at the center of gravity (center of gravity portion) 112 in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the spool 2. The contact portion 113 contacts the friction member 14 and, by receiving frictional force, can apply braking torque to the spool 2. At this time, the moment due to the contact force received by the contact portion 113 around the rotation axis 111 balances the moment due to the centrifugal force. The braking force received by the spool 2 changes depending on the position of the friction member 14, but the details of this will be described later.

[0034] The mechanical brake shoe 12 is pivotally supported so as to be able to move translationally in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the spool 2. The spring member 13 is configured to apply a biasing force between the spool 2 and the mechanical brake shoe 12. Depending on the position of the friction member 14, the mechanical brake shoe 12 and the friction member 14 come into contact, and the amount of charge (displacement) of the spring member 13 changes. The braking torque that the mechanical brake shoe 12 receives from the friction member 14 changes depending on the position of the friction member 14.

[0035] The friction member 14 is a generally cylindrical member and has a generally conical contact tapered surface 141 on the outer circumferential surface of one end. The friction member 14 also has a spirally arranged cam portion (cam groove) 142 on its outer circumferential surface near its center. The axial position of the friction member 14 is movable by an adjustment mechanism 15. The configuration of the adjustment mechanism 15 will be explained with reference to Figures 4 to 6. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the configuration of the adjustment mechanism of the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, as previously described. Figure 5(a) is a cross-sectional view illustrating the details of the adjustment mechanism of the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 5(b) is a cross-sectional view illustrating the details of the adjustment mechanism of the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the connection state of an electrical circuit including the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] As shown in the figure, the friction member 14 is supported on the side plate 4 so as to be immobile and translatably movable in the direction of the spool rotation axis. The cylindrical portion of the adjustment mechanism 15 is provided with a helical cam portion (cam groove) 142 with the spool rotation axis as its central axis. The adjustment member 15 is pivotally supported on the side plate 4 so as to be rotatable with the spool rotation axis as its central axis. The inner circumference of the adjustment member 15 has a follower pin 151 connected to the cam portion (cam groove) 142. As a result, by rotating the adjustment member 15, the friction member 14 can be translated in the axial direction.

[0037] Furthermore, the outer circumference of the adjustment member 15 has a gear portion 152 driven by a pinion gear 161 provided on the motor 16. This allows the motor 16 to adjust the axial position of the friction member 14 via the adjustment member 15. To precisely position the friction member 14, an electrical circuit as shown in Figure 6 may be configured as an example. By placing a position detection sensor 25 (e.g., a magnetic sensor) on the side plate 4 and a detected member (e.g., a magnet) on the friction member 14, a signal corresponding to the position of the friction member 14 can be obtained. This signal is sent to the control unit (calculation unit, microcontroller) 18, which drives the motor driver 24 according to the position, and by appropriately rotating the motor 16 in forward and reverse directions, the position of the friction member 14 can be accurately determined. These electrical components are arranged on a printed circuit board on which predetermined electrical wiring is printed. The printed circuit board, together with the power supply (e.g., a battery) 17 and the motor 16, is housed in a watertight case 19.

[0038] The space between the watertight case 19 and the side plate 4 is appropriately sealed with waterproof means such as gaskets or waterproof double-sided tape to prevent water leakage from the outside and contamination of foreign matter. In the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the gear section 152 is driven directly by a pinion gear attached to the motor, but it may be reduced using gears or the like as needed. In addition, the shaft of the pinion gear protruding from the side plate may be appropriately waterproofed with an O-ring or the like.

[0039] Next, using Figure 5, the mechanism by which the braking force changes depending on the position of the friction member 14 in the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be explained. As shown in Figure 5(a), when the friction member 14 is in the axial right position, the centrifugal brake shoe 11 rotates until it contacts the friction surface. When the centrifugal brake shoe 11 is subjected to further centrifugal force in this state, the moment generated by this centrifugal force balances the reaction force F received from the inclined plane. The reaction force F is given by: F = M × R × L1 / L2 × ω ２ This is the result. The braking force is the reaction force F multiplied by the coefficient of friction, and is proportional to the square of the rotational speed ω of the spool 2. However, M: mass of the centrifugal brake shoe 11 L: distance from the center of rotation 111 to the center of gravity 112 θ: angle between the radial direction (centrifugal force direction) of the spool 2 and the center of rotation 111 to the center of gravity 112 L1: axial component of the distance from the center of gravity 112 to the center of rotation 111 L2: distance between the perpendicular from the tapered surface passing through the contact portion 113 and the center of rotation 111 R: distance from the spool rotation axis to the center of gravity 112 Here, L1 = Lsin θ, and around θ ≈ 0, L1 is roughly proportional to θ. Also, the amount of movement of the friction member 14 is roughly proportional to θ. Therefore, by designing the position of the center of gravity and the shape of the contact portion so that this region is included, the braking force can be set to increase in roughly proportion to the amount of movement of the friction member. In reality, R and L2 are also functions of θ, but for the sake of simplicity, they will be considered constant. This condition can be achieved by making the shape of the brake shoe 11 appropriate. Furthermore, if the changes in R and L2 cannot be ignored, although the relationship between the amount of movement of the friction member and the braking force is not proportional, the effect of adjusting the braking force by moving the friction member can be achieved.

[0040] In the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the friction member 14 is capable of contacting not only the centrifugal brake shoe 11 but also the mechanical brake shoe 12. The mechanical brake shoe 12 is, for example, supported so as to be able to move linearly in the radial direction relative to the spool 2 and is biased in the inward radial direction by a spring member 13. Here, considering the effect of centrifugal force, the mechanical brake shoe 12 may be, for example, supported so as to be able to move linearly in the axial direction relative to the spool 2 and biased in the axial direction by the spring member 13. When the friction member 14 is on the right side in the axial direction as shown in Figure 5(a), the friction member 14 and the mechanical brake shoe 12 are in a non-contact state. If the friction member 14 is gradually moved to the left in the left-right direction (axial direction of the spool 2) as viewed from the paper (towards the spool 2), the friction member 14 and the mechanical brake shoe 12 will eventually come into contact. If the mechanical brake shoe 12 is moved further to the left (towards the spool 2) in the left-right direction (axis direction of the spool 2) as viewed from the paper, the mechanical brake shoe 12 moves radially outward from the spool 2, the spring member 13 is charged, and the mechanical brake shoe 12 receives a reaction force corresponding to the amount of charge of the spring member 13. As a result, the spool 2, on which the spring member 13 is provided, receives a braking force due to friction. The braking force by the mechanical brake shoe 12 is a constant value determined by the amount of charge of the spring member 13, i.e., the amount of movement of the friction member 14, and is almost independent of the rotational speed of the spool 2. In the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, when the friction member 14 is moved to the left, both the braking force by the centrifugal brake shoe and the braking force by the mechanical brake shoe 12 increase. Also, when the friction member 14 is moved to the right, both the braking force by the centrifugal brake shoe and the braking force by the mechanical brake shoe 12 decrease.

[0041] Thus, in the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the braking force of two braking means (i.e., the braking means by centrifugal brake shoe 11 and the braking means by mechanical brake shoe 12) can be adjusted by one adjustment mechanism (adjustment means), and it becomes impossible to adjust each braking means independently. However, when used as a casting brake for a fishing reel, the disadvantage of not being able to control them independently is almost negligible. When braking force is needed, both the braking force by the centrifugal brake shoe 11 and the braking force by the mechanical brake shoe 12 can be increased, and on the other hand, when braking force is not needed, both the braking force by the centrifugal brake shoe 11 and the braking force by the mechanical brake shoe 12 can be decreased. In this way, by adjusting the two braking means with one adjustment means, the number of adjustment means required becomes one, and the overall size and cost of the device can be reduced.

[0042] Next, an example of a method for braking the spool 2 when casting a lure using a fishing reel 1 equipped with a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. Casting process: The lure is cast, the spool reaches its maximum speed, gradually slows down, and hits the water. 1: Initial settings are made to prevent backlash when the spool rotation is at its maximum speed. 2: If backlash occurs as the speed gradually decreases, the brake setting is gradually strengthened according to the spool rotation speed and elapsed time. If the braking in the latter half is too strong due to the lure weight, casting method, etc., the brake setting is gradually weakened. (Effect) By making it possible to change the brake characteristics in the middle of casting, the braking force can be optimized over the entire casting section under various conditions, and as a result, both backlash prevention and improved casting distance can be achieved. 3. Maximize braking force upon landing (no need to thumb the spool). Alternative control: Braking can be adjusted according to the casting distance, or by detecting the amount of line slack and braking accordingly.

[0043] Next, referring to FIG. 7, a specific example of casting a projectile such as a lure using the fishing reel 1 equipped with the braking device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be further described. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the casting of a projectile such as a lure using the fishing reel 1 equipped with the braking device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and shows the change over time of the rotational speed of the spool 2 when casting a projectile such as a lure. Note that the vertical axis represents the rotational speed of the spool, and the horizontal axis represents time.

[0044] Here, the process from casting the lure until it hits the water will be explained by dividing it into four regions: (1) acceleration region, (2) maximum speed region, (3) cruising region, and (4) hitting water region. First, in the (1) acceleration region, when the user swings the fishing rod, the projectile (for example, a lure or the like) receives tension from the fishing line and is given an initial velocity. After that, at an appropriate timing, when the user makes the spool 2 freely rotatable, the spool 2 receives tension from the fishing line and starts to rotate. As long as the amount of fishing line released from the spool 2 does not exceed the speed of the lure, the spool 2 continues to be tensioned by the fishing line and continues to accelerate. During this time, the lure gradually changes its trajectory due to the tension from the fishing line. This acceleration region often lasts from 80 to 150 ms after the start of casting (cast). Also, in this acceleration region, since the spool 2 always receives tension from the lure, no line twist occurs, and there is no need to generate a large braking torque in the braking device.

[0045] Next, in the (2) maximum speed region, the spool 2 continues to receive tension from the fishing line, and eventually the flying speed of the lure and the release speed of the fishing line balance out. At this time, the spool 2 reaches its maximum speed. The maximum speed of the spool 2 is often about 10,000 to 40,000 rpm depending on the conditions in the case of a general double-bearing reel. If no braking torque is generated in the spool 2, the tension of the fishing line at this time becomes zero. After casting, while the lure continues to decelerate due to air resistance and the like, the spool 2 continues at its maximum speed due to inertia. As a result, the release speed of the fishing line exceeds the flying speed of the lure, and line twist or backlash occurs. Since the speed of the spool 2 is at its maximum speed, the backlash generated at this timing tends to grow rapidly. To prevent this, a braking torque is generated in the spool by the braking device.

[0046] It is desirable that the braking torque be approximately equal to the air resistance received by the lure and fishing line multiplied by the spool radius. Since the air resistance received by the lure increases as the flight speed increases, the required braking torque also increases according to the flight speed of the lure. In addition, the required braking torque is easily affected by various factors such as the attitude, trajectory, weight, shape of the lure, the way of swinging and characteristics of the fishing rod, and the influence of the wind, and thus is easily influenced by conditions. In the braking device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the braking torque generated in such a case is mainly generated by the braking portion by the centrifugal brake shoe 11. Thereby, even if the flight speed of the lure changes, the braking torque also changes accordingly, so that it is easy to optimize the braking torque without adjusting the position of the friction member 14.

[0047] Next, in the (3) cruising region, after reaching the maximum speed, the lure continues to be obliquely thrown while receiving air resistance and gravity, and the spool 2 continues to decelerate by the braking device. If the braking torque becomes too large, the lure receives a tension from the fishing line to the rear, so that the throwing distance becomes short. If the braking torque becomes too small, the fishing line release speed from the spool 2 exceeds the flight speed of the lure, resulting in line snarling or backlash. If the optimal braking torque is defined as the braking torque that maximizes the flight distance, the optimal braking torque is influenced by the air resistance received by the lure (weather conditions and the shape of the lure), the trajectory of the lure, etc. And the set value (position of the friction member 14) for generating the optimal braking torque in the cruising region may be different from the position of the friction member 14 in the (2) maximum speed region. In the present invention, during casting, the reel state detection sensor 23 (a sensor that detects the speed and acceleration of the spool 2, the tension of the fishing line, a motion sensor related to casting, and the amount of line snarling) is used to estimate the optimal braking torque, and the position of the friction member 14 is calculated according to the estimation. Then, by moving the position of the friction member 14 each time, it is possible to maintain the optimal braking torque in the section from the start to the end of casting.

[0048] Next, in (4) the water impact region, when the lure hits the water or the ground, it receives a large resistance force from the water surface or the ground and decelerates rapidly. When using a typical reel, the lure often hits the water about 1 to 4 seconds after the start of casting, and in that case the spool speed is often about 2000 to 5000 rpm, and the spool 2 continues to rotate due to inertia. Therefore, if the spool 2 is not braked, line slack or backlash will occur. The braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention is preferably used in the region in which the spring member is charged and a large braking torque is generated by the mechanical brake shoe 12. This makes it possible to obtain sufficient braking torque even when the spool is moving at a low speed, such as when the lure hits the water.

[0049] Conventional braking systems required the user to visually confirm the lure's landing on the water and apply braking with their finger (thumbing), or to pre-apply a large braking force / torque. When the user performed thumbing, there was a problem that the casting distance could be reduced or backlash could occur depending on their skill level. In particular, visual confirmation of the lure's landing on the water could be difficult at night, in bad weather, or when casting lures long distances, making it difficult to optimize the braking torque in such situations. Furthermore, if enough braking torque was applied to prevent backlash upon landing, a large braking torque would be required throughout the entire casting motion, resulting in a loss of casting distance.

[0050] In contrast, the braking device 10 and fishing reel 1 equipped therewith, according to one embodiment of the present invention, can detect when the spool 2 speed falls below a predetermined value, or when it detects that the reel is about to hit the water, by adjusting the position of the adjustment member to generate a large braking torque. This makes it possible to effectively suppress backlash when the reel hits the water without having to perform a thumbing operation at the time of impact. Thus, in the braking device 10 and fishing reel 1 equipped therewith, according to one embodiment of the present invention, the braking torque of both braking means can be adjusted with a single adjustment member, making it possible to optimize the braking torque according to various situations.

[0051] Furthermore, in the braking device 10 and fishing reel 1 equipped therewith according to one embodiment of the present invention, the adjustment member is configured to be adjustable by a motor, so that the necessary braking torque can be generated at any time even during casting, making it possible to achieve both extended flight distance and prevention of backlash over a wide range.

[0052] A braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention is a braking device 10 that can be attached to a fishing reel 1 having a spool 2 that is rotatably mounted relative to a reel body 3 and on which fishing line can be wound, and an operating part (not shown) provided on the reel body 3 that rotates a rotor (not shown), and is configured to include a centrifugal brake shoe 11 provided on the spool 2 that generates a braking force corresponding to the rotational speed of the spool 2, a friction member 14 provided on the reel body 3 that receives a first frictional force from the centrifugal brake shoe 11, an adjustment mechanism 15 that allows the braking force to be adjusted by moving the friction member 14, a drive source 16 that drives the adjustment mechanism 15, and a control unit 18 that controls the drive source 16.

[0053] According to the braking device 10 and fishing reel 1 equipped therewith, according to one embodiment of the present invention, braking can be performed in accordance with the spool rotation speed during casting, and braking can be performed in accordance with the spool rotation speed by centrifugal brake shoe 11 which allows for dynamic changes in the braking characteristics during casting, thereby providing a braking device that can achieve both improved casting distance and prevention of backlash, and a fishing reel equipped therewith.

[0054] In a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the adjustment mechanism 15 is configured to adjust the braking force by moving the friction member 14 such that the magnitude of the first friction force changes depending on the contact position with the centrifugal brake shoe 11. This makes it possible to perform braking according to the spool rotation speed using the centrifugal brake shoe 11, which allows for dynamic changes in braking characteristics during throwing.

[0055] In a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the adjustment mechanism 15 is configured to move the friction member 14 in the axial direction of the spool 2. This leads to the concentration of components that generate braking force, making it possible to miniaturize the entire device.

[0056] In a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, a mechanical brake shoe 12 is provided on the spool 2 and generates a braking force that does not change according to the rotational speed of the spool 2. The friction member 14 receives a second frictional force from the mechanical brake shoe 12, and the adjustment mechanism 15 is configured to adjust the braking force by moving the friction member 14 so that the magnitude of the second frictional force changes depending on the contact position with the mechanical brake shoe 12. As a result, an appropriate braking force can be generated even when the speed decreases, and backlash can be prevented more easily and reliably (for example, thumbing the spool when it hits the water becomes unnecessary).

[0057] In a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the friction member 14 is a single member that is movable via an adjustment mechanism 15 by a single drive source 16. As a result, the friction member 14 and its adjustment mechanism 15 are integrated for each brake shoe (centrifugal brake shoe 11 and mechanical brake shoe 12), making it possible to reduce the number of parts and achieve lower costs and lighter weight.

[0058] In a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the range of movement of the centrifugal brake shoe 11 and the mechanical brake shoe 12 is arranged to overlap with the range of movement of the friction member 14, thereby enabling the friction member 14 to change the positions of both the centrifugal brake shoe 11 and the mechanical brake shoe 12. In this way, the members that generate braking force can be concentrated, making it possible to miniaturize the entire device.

[0059] In a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the centrifugal brake shoe 11 and the mechanical brake shoe 12 are arranged on the same end side of the spool 2 (the right side of the paper in Figure 1, the end of the spool 2 on the bearing 22 side), the friction member 14 is formed in a cylindrical shape and has a tapered surface formed on the end on the spool 2 side, and the adjustment mechanism is configured to change the relative position of the friction member with respect to the adjustment mechanism by converting the drive from the drive source into axial movement of the spool and moving the friction member. In this way, the members that generate braking force can be concentrated, making it possible to miniaturize the entire device.

[0060] In a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the device further comprises a spool shaft provided on the spool 2 and a support member (for example, a side plate 4 in Figure 1) provided on the reel body 3 and pivotally supporting the spool shaft, wherein the support member (for example, a side plate 4 in Figure 1) is configured to guide the axial movement of the friction member 14 with its outer circumferential surface. In this way, there is no need to provide a separate guide member for the friction member, thus reducing the number of parts and lowering costs.

[0061] In a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the mechanical brake shoe 12 is arranged to move in the axial direction of the spool 2. This makes it possible to reduce the effect of centrifugal force on the mechanical brake shoe 12.

[0062] In a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the centrifugal brake shoe 11 and the mechanical brake shoe 12 are arranged on the spool 2 at positions facing each other in the radial direction of the spool 2. This makes it possible to reduce the weight imbalance in the circumferential direction of the spool 2 and improve operational stability.

[0063] In the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the device is further configured to include a power supply 17 that supplies power to the control unit 18 and the drive source 16. In the braking device 10 according to the present embodiment of the present invention described above, for convenience, an example was used in which a battery 17 is placed inside the braking device 10 to supply power to the control unit 18 and the motor driver 24. However, the power supply 17 that supplies power to the control unit 18 and the motor driver 24 is not limited to a battery. Here, the power supply 17 can be a battery (including primary batteries and secondary batteries), a power supply receiving means capable of receiving power from a larger external power source, or a power generation means attached to a fishing reel or fishing rod. Furthermore, the power supply receiving means includes a connector that receives wired power from an external source and an antenna that receives wireless power from an external source. This eliminates the need to install a large-capacity battery inside the reel, making it possible to miniaturize the device and eliminating concerns about running out of battery power. Furthermore, power generation methods include photovoltaics that convert light energy into electricity, environmental power generation methods that convert energy such as temperature differences and vibrations into electricity, and power generation methods that use coils and magnets on the spool and reel body to convert the rotational motion of the spool into electricity. This makes it possible to miniaturize and extend the lifespan of batteries.

[0064] In a braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, the drive source 16 is a motor.

[0065] A fishing reel 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention is configured to include any of the above-described braking devices 10. According to the fishing reel 1 equipped with the braking device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, braking can be performed in accordance with the spool rotation speed when casting, and braking can be performed in accordance with the spool rotation speed by centrifugal brake shoes that allow for dynamic changes in braking characteristics during casting, making it possible to achieve both improved casting distance and prevention of backlash.

[0066] As described above, a braking device 10 and a fishing reel 1 equipped therewith according to one embodiment of the present invention have been explained. However, the direction of movement and shape of the friction member 14 may be other than those described above. The shape of the mechanical brake shoe 12 also includes other forms besides those described above. For example, a configuration in which the mechanical brake shoe and centrifugal brake shoe are used together is conceivable, and for example, a configuration in which a spring force is generated when the friction member 14 is pushed all the way in is conceivable. Furthermore, the configuration of the adjustment mechanism 15 and the control method by the control unit 18 may also be other than those described above.

[0067] The dimensions, materials, and arrangements of each component described herein are not limited to those explicitly described in the embodiments, and each component can be modified to have any dimensions, materials, and arrangements that fall within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, components not explicitly described herein may be added to the described embodiments, and some of the components described in each embodiment may be omitted.

[0068] 1 Fishing reel (baitcasting reel) 2 Spool 3 Frame (reel body) 4 Side plate 10 Braking device 11 Centrifugal brake shoe 12 Mechanical brake shoe 13 Spring member 14 Friction member 15 Adjustment mechanism 16 Drive source 17 Power supply 18 Control unit (calculation unit, microcontroller) 19 Watertight case 21 Bearing 22 Bearing 23 Reel state detection sensor 24 Motor driver 25 Position detection sensor 111 Rotating shaft 112 Center of gravity (center of gravity part) 113 Contact part

Claims

1. A braking device that can be attached to a fishing reel having a spool that is rotatably mounted relative to the reel body and on which fishing line can be wound, and an operating part provided on the reel body for rotating a rotor, the braking device comprising: a centrifugal brake shoe provided on the spool for generating a braking force corresponding to the rotational speed of the spool; a friction member provided on the reel body for receiving a first frictional force from the centrifugal brake shoe; an adjustment mechanism that allows the braking force to be adjusted by moving the friction member; a drive source for driving the adjustment mechanism; and a control unit for controlling the drive source.

2. The braking device according to claim 1, wherein the adjustment mechanism adjusts the braking force by moving the friction member such that the magnitude of the first friction force changes due to a different contact position with the centrifugal brake shoe.

3. The braking device according to claim 1, wherein the adjustment mechanism moves the friction member in the axial direction of the spool.

4. The braking device according to claim 1, further comprising a mechanical brake shoe provided on the spool and generating a braking force that does not change according to the rotational speed of the spool, wherein the friction member receives a second frictional force from the mechanical brake shoe, and the adjustment mechanism adjusts the braking force by moving the friction member such that the magnitude of the second frictional force changes depending on the contact position with the mechanical brake shoe.

5. The braking device according to claim 1, wherein the friction member is a single member that is movable via the adjustment mechanism by a single drive source.

6. The braking device according to claim 4, wherein the friction member is configured to change the positions of both the centrifugal brake shoe and the mechanical brake shoe by arranging them so that the range of movement of the centrifugal brake shoe and the mechanical brake shoe overlap with the range of movement of the friction member.

7. The braking device according to claim 4, wherein the centrifugal brake shoe and the mechanical brake shoe are arranged on the same end side of the spool, the friction member is formed in a cylindrical shape and has a tapered surface formed on the end side of the spool, and the adjustment mechanism converts the drive from the drive source into axial movement of the spool to move the friction member, thereby changing the relative position of the friction member with respect to the adjustment mechanism.

8. The braking device according to claim 1, further comprising a spool shaft provided on the spool and a support member provided on the reel body for pivotally supporting the spool shaft, wherein the support member is configured to guide the axial movement of the friction member with its outer circumferential surface.

9. The braking device according to claim 4, wherein the mechanical brake shoe is arranged to move in the axial direction of the spool.

10. The braking device according to claim 4, wherein the centrifugal brake shoe and the mechanical brake shoe are arranged on the spool at positions facing each other in the radial direction of the spool.

11. The braking device according to claim 1, further comprising a power supply for supplying power to the control unit and the drive source.

12. The braking device according to claim 1, wherein the drive source is a motor.

13. A fishing reel equipped with a braking device according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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