Drag Adjusting Reel Cam Mechanism for Manual Force Control
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fishing reel systems lack a convenient and precise method for manually adjusting the drag force applied to the fishing line, limiting the angler's control during fishing operations.
Innovation Solution
A drag adjusting reel assembly with a cam mechanism that allows for selective manual adjustment of the drag force, featuring a reel mount bracket, a line spool, a spool extension, and a drag adjusting lever with a cam surface that engages or disengages with a drag adjusting bracket to control the drag force applied to the fishing line.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional fixed drag system is used, then the structure is simple, but the angler cannot adjust the drag force during fishing operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed drag system into an adjustable one through a cam mechanism. The cam profile can be selectively positioned to change the drag force characteristics, allowing the system to adapt from a static configuration to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. This enables the reel to provide different drag forces based on fishing conditions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing the cam mechanism to be positioned at different locations along the cam surface, which directly changes the drag force parameter. By selecting different cam positions or using cams with different profiles, the drag force can be adjusted to match various fishing scenarios, achieving versatility without requiring a completely complex system redesign.
2Ease of operation
If drag adjustment mechanism is added, then drag force control is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the self-service principle by designing the cam mechanism to be self-retaining at different positions. The cam profile geometry itself provides the adjustment function without requiring additional locking mechanisms or complex control systems. The lever arm naturally positions the cam at different points along its surface, and the mechanism maintains its position through the inherent geometry of the cam and follower arrangement, reducing the need for additional operational steps.
3Measurement precision
If cam mechanism is used for drag adjustment, then precise drag control is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the drag adjustment function into discrete, selectable cam positions or interchangeable cam components. Rather than requiring continuous adjustment mechanisms, the system segments the drag force range into distinct settings that can be selected based on fishing conditions. This approach achieves precise drag control at specific levels while avoiding the complexity of continuous adjustment mechanisms.
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 precise and continuous adjustment of the drag force, allowing anglers to optimize line payout and retrieval, enhancing fishing control and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A drag adjusting lever may include a cam having a cam surface configured to selectively actuate the spool extension against the drag adjusting bracket
Data Source
AI summary
A drag adjusting reel assembly suitable for facilitating selective manual adjustment of a drag force applied to a fishing line may include a reel mount bracket configured for mounting on a fishing bow. A reel shaft may be carried by the reel mount bracket. A line spool may be drivingly engaged for rotation by the reel shaft. A drag adjusting mechanism may include a drag adjusting bracket carried by the reel mount bracket. A spool extension may extend from and be rotational with the line spool. The spool extension may be disposed adjacent to the drag adjusting bracket. A drag adjusting lever may include a cam having a cam surface configured to selectively actuate the spool extension against the drag adjusting bracket. The cam may be rotational between a free-spooling position in which the cam surface disengages or minimally engages the spool extension and the spool extension disengages or minimally engages the drag adjusting bracket, respectively, and a maximal drag, spool locking position in which the cam surface maximally engages the spool extension and the spool extension maximally engages the drag adjusting bracket. At least one lever arm may extend from the cam.