Ice Fishing Depth Finder Retractor With Spring Winding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ice fishing depth finders often interfere with the fishing process when the depth probe cord is not easily and efficiently retracted, leading to wasted time and disorganization.
Innovation Solution
A depth finder retractor system comprising a probe, a spool, and a retraction mechanism with a spring or motor-driven cable winding system, along with a slip ring assembly for electrical signal transfer, allowing for quick and neat retrieval of the probe from the water.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the depth probe cord is pulled up quickly by the angler to remove interference, then the probe is removed from the water faster, but the cord becomes strewn about the area and requires additional time to collect
Solution Approach 1:
The retractor device performs the action of collecting and organizing the cord in advance, before the angler needs to use it again. The spring mechanism continuously winds the cord onto the spool during descent, so that when the probe needs to be retrieved, the cord is already organized and ready for quick retraction without creating a tangled mess on the ice surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The retractor mechanism is self-activating through the spring-loaded spool that automatically winds the cord as it pays out during probe descent. The pawl and ratchet mechanism provides automatic one-way rotation control, eliminating the need for the angler to manually manage the cord during operation. The system serves itself by automatically organizing the cord without requiring user intervention.
2Device complexity
If a simple cord system is used for the depth probe, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to manual cord management
Solution Approach 1:
The spool is designed to rotate freely in one direction (during probe descent) while being constrained in the opposite direction (during retrieval) through the pawl and ratchet mechanism. This dynamic constraint allows the system to adapt its behavior based on the operational phase - permitting free cord payout during lowering while automatically winding during retrieval, thereby improving ease of operation without requiring complex manual controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical action of pulling and organizing the cord is replaced by an automated spring-driven winding mechanism. Instead of the angler manually managing the cord, the spring-loaded spool with pawl-ratchet mechanism automatically performs the winding function, substituting a simple automated mechanical system for complex manual operations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid and organized retrieval of the depth finder probe, minimizing interference with fishing operations and reducing time spent on retraction.
Implementation Method 1
The probe is extended from the retractor using manual force and the probe is retracted using a spring mechanism
Implementation Method 2
The spool is adapted to receive the cable for winding there around
Implementation Method 3
The pawl is biased against the ratchet teeth by a spring so that the spool is prevented from rotating
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of the invention comprises a retractor for use with a depth finder unit. The retractor includes a depth probe on a length of cord, a winding mechanism, a ratcheting slip ring assembly, and a housing.