Downrigger Lure Reciprocation for Variable-Speed Trolling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing downrigger trolling systems lack the ability to impart a jerking or pulsating movement to fishing lures, which is crucial for attracting fish, especially in smaller bodies of water or areas with boat traffic, and existing solutions are limited in their ability to vary lure speed and are cumbersome to use.
Innovation Solution
A reciprocal trolling device for downrigger systems that superimposes a jerking movement on the steady movement of the lure by using a frame member with a reciprocating mechanism, adjustable keel member, and a line engagement system to release and wrap the fishing line around a wrapping cylinder, allowing the lure to flutter and adjust to trolling speed and fish type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a downrigger is employed for trolling, then the fishing lure can be pulled through the water at a relatively constant rate of speed, but the lure lacks the jerking or pulsating movement that provides greater attraction for fish
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a reciprocating mechanism that periodically engages and disengages the fishing line from the frame member, creating a jerking or pulsating movement in the lure. This periodic action superimposes variable speed motion on top of the steady trolling speed, making the lure more attractive to fish while maintaining controlled trolling capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic system where the fishing line can be captured and released by the reciprocating mechanism, allowing the lure to change its movement pattern from steady to jerking. The mechanism provides adjustable control over the reciprocating action, enabling the system to adapt between different trolling conditions and fish targeting requirements.
2Ease of manufacture
If a reciprocating mechanism is added to provide jerking movement, then fish attraction is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the reciprocating mechanism with the existing downrigger frame structure, integrating the line capture device, wrapping cylinder, and reciprocating member into a unified assembly that attaches to the standard downrigger cable. This merging approach reduces overall device complexity by utilizing existing structural elements rather than adding completely separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The reciprocating mechanism is designed to automatically capture and release the fishing line through water movement-driven rotation of the wrapping cylinder. The system uses the kinetic energy of the trolling motion itself to power the reciprocating action, eliminating the need for external power sources or complex control systems.
3Ease of manufacture
If the reciprocating mechanism continuously engages the line, then the lure maintains constant jerking motion, but the fisherman cannot easily retrieve the lure or adjust positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fishing line from continuous engagement with the reciprocating mechanism through the use of a release mechanism. When the fisherman needs to retrieve the lure or adjust positioning, the line can be released from the capture device, allowing the lure to be freely manipulated or retrieved without being caught in the reciprocating action.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides dynamic control over line engagement, allowing the fisherman to switch between the lure being actively reciprocating and being freely movable. This dynamic capability enables easy retrieval and positioning adjustment when needed while maintaining consistent jerking motion during normal trolling operations.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the drawing line is made adjustable to vary lateral movement, then adaptability to different fish types is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements adjustable parameters in the reciprocating mechanism, including the ability to modify the drawing line length and the reciprocating action characteristics. These parameter adjustments allow the system to adapt to different fish types, water conditions, and trolling speeds by changing the lateral movement and jerking patterns of the lure.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism is segmented into modular components, including an adjustable drawing line with beads or markers that can be repositioned or replaced, and separate adjustment controls for the reciprocating mechanism. This segmentation allows for easy modification of parameters without requiring complex reconfiguration of the entire device.
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
The device provides a perceptible jerking motion to the lure, enhancing fish attraction and allowing for independent adjustment of lure distance and movement, reducing entanglement, and enabling seamless fish retrieval without additional drag.
Implementation Method 1
the line is caused to wrap around a wrapping cylinder
Data Source
AI summary
An underwater fishing lure reciprocating device for downrigger trolling apparatus comprises a mounting member that is attached to the end of the downrigger cable and a reciprocating member movably mounted on the mounting member. The reciprocating member includes a clip for holding the fishing line which reciprocates with movement of the reciprocating member with respect to the mounting member. The reciprocating member to reciprocate a draw line that is connected to the fishing line when the device is being towed behind a boat. Desirably, the reciprocating member engages and releases the draw line when it is towed behind a boat. The engagement and release of the draw line causes the lure on the fishing line to travel at varied speeds behind the reciprocating device.