Fishing Aid Elevator Mechanism for Non-Linear Lure Motion

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional fishing aids fail to mimic the natural non-linear movement of bait fish, limiting the vertical range and effectiveness of lures when trolling, as they typically move in a linear pattern, which reduces the chances of attracting fish.

Innovation Solution

A fishing aid comprising a housing, an actuator with counter-rotating propellers, and an elevator that moves in a reciprocally pivotal manner, creating a non-linear pattern when pulled linearly through the water, simulating the motion of an escaping bait fish by rotating a gear and pushrod mechanism.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional fishing aids move in a linear pattern when being pulled, then the device structure is simple, but the vertical range of lure presentation is limited and effectiveness is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevertical range of lure presentationVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fishing aid employs a dynamic structure where the elevator is pivotally connected to the housing, allowing it to move from a neutral position to elevated positions. This pivotal movement is actuated by a motor-driven mechanism that rotates the elevator between approximately 45 to 90 degrees, transforming the device from a static linear mover to a dynamic non-linear mover that can present lures at varying vertical depths

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention adds a vertical dimension to the otherwise linear horizontal movement by elevating the elevator above the housing. This creates a three-dimensional motion pattern where the fishing aid not only moves forward linearly but also varies its vertical position, expanding the lure presentation from a single-line trajectory to a multi-depth spatial pattern

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the fishing aid moves in a linear pattern, then the device complexity is low, but the natural motion of bait fish is not mimicked, reducing fishing effectiveness

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemimicry of natural motionVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fishing aid implements periodic action through the oscillating pivotal movement of the elevator. The motor drives the elevator through repeated cycles of elevation and return to neutral position, creating a rhythmic up-and-down motion that simulates the natural periodic movements of bait fish. This periodic action is controlled by the motor's rotation cycles, which can be adjusted to match different swimming patterns

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The dynamic pivotal connection allows the elevator to respond to water resistance and motor actuation, creating natural-looking irregularities in the motion pattern. The elevator's ability to pivot and return creates a dynamic, living-like movement rather than a rigid mechanical oscillation, enhancing the mimicry of natural bait fish behavior

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 fishing aid increases the vertical range of the lure presentation, enhancing the chances of catching fish by covering a larger area and mimicking the natural motion of bait fish, thereby improving fishing efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

the helix-shaped portion generating a rotation of the propeller and gear engaging portion due to a reaction with the body of water

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydrodynamic resistance: Drag

Data Source

PatentUS11974559B2Fishing aid
Publication Date: 2024.05.07 HANSON MATHEW SHERMAN
  • US11974559B2 patent drawing
  • US11974559B2 patent drawing
  • US11974559B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fishing aid includes a housing with a hollow interior, an actuator being coupled to the housing, and an elevator. The elevator being in a pivotal connection with the housing and being in a coupling connection with the actuator, such that the elevator is configured, through the actuator, for a reciprocally pivotal movement in a vertical direction when the fishing aid is being pulled in a linear direction through a body of water by a line connected to the housing. The reciprocal pivotal movement of the elevator causes a movement of the fishing aid in a non-linear pattern through the body of water. The fishing aid can be used on a surface of the body of water or can be fully submerged with an aid of a downrigger.