Lure Depth Measurement Device Using Angular Scale and Trigonometry

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for determining the running depth of artificial fishing lures during trolling are inaccurate and time-consuming, relying on trial and error, and require extensive data collection for various lure types and trolling parameters.

Innovation Solution

A device and method that measure the angle of the fishing line relative to the horizon, using simple trigonometry to calculate lure depth, with a static design and smartphone app for real-time calculations, allowing for precise placement of lures based on line length and angle.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional trial and error method with dive charts is used to determine lure depth, then data can be gathered for various lure types, but the method is inaccurate and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelure depth measurement accuracyVSAvoidtime required to gather diving data

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical trial-and-error method of charting lure depths with an optical measurement system using a theodolite or total station. These instruments use optical and electronic components to precisely measure angles and calculate depths mathematically, eliminating the need for repeated physical testing and manual charting while significantly improving measurement accuracy and reducing time requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If extensive data collection is performed for different lure types and trolling parameters, then comprehensive dive charts can be created, but the process requires countless hours of investment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereliability of lure depth dataVSAvoidefficiency of data gathering process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces time-consuming manual data collection with an automated optical measurement system. The theodolite/total station automatically measures angles and the system calculates depths using trigonometric relationships, enabling rapid data acquisition for multiple lure types and parameters without the countless hours of manual testing previously required.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a mathematical model that replicates the physical diving behavior of lures through angle and distance measurements. By capturing the essential geometric relationships (angle of line, distance from boat), the system creates a reliable digital representation of lure depth characteristics that can be applied across different trolling conditions without requiring exhaustive physical testing of every scenario.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Loss of information

If dive charts are created manually with pen and paper or memorized, then data can be stored for later use, but the process is tedious and retrieval is unreliable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveretention of lure depth dataVSAvoidsimplicity of data storage system

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual pen-and-paper charting with automated digital data capture and storage. The optical measurement system automatically records angle and distance measurements, and the system calculates and stores depth data in digital format, eliminating the need for manual transcription and memorization while ensuring accurate retention and easy retrieval of lure depth information.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

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

This solution increases accuracy and efficiency in determining lure depth, reducing the time and effort required to gather data and creating more reliable dive charts for strategic lure placement.

Implementation Method 1

By measuring an angle of fishing line relative to the horizon, simple trigonometry can be used to determine the depth of the bait in relation to the rod tip.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectTrigonometry:

Data Source

PatentUS11968968B1Device and methods of use for determining lure depth while trolling

Publication Date: 2024.04.30 RICE JEREMY

AI summary

A measuring device is provided for use in a method for determining the depth of a trolled lure. The measuring device has an angular scale divided into degrees to measure a dive angle and a bubble level affixed thereto for calibrating the angular scale relative to the horizon. A register pin affixed at a fulcrum of the angular scale forms a center point for a fishing line to rotate about in order to measure a dive angle. The register pin further includes a flange to ensure the fishing line is retained on an outer diameter of the register pin while the dive angle measurement is taken. A mounting device is provided adapted for affixing the measuring device within a boat in a manner that allows for leveling or calibrating.