Multi-Bar Trolling Motor Mount for Secure Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trolling motor mounts lack a comprehensive mechanism to securely transition between stowed and deployed positions, often requiring complex actuation systems and lacking stability during deployment and stowing processes.
Innovation Solution
A multi-bar change point apparatus with side frame members, rotatable transverse rods, interconnecting links, stabilizer plates, and retainer assemblies that utilize resilient rollers and biases to securely position the trolling motor in either configuration, along with a release mechanism for seamless transitions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex actuation system is used to secure the trolling motor in both stowed and deployed positions, then the reliability of positioning is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic multi-bar linkage system that automatically transitions between stowed and deployed positions through controlled movement of the bars and joints. The system uses movable joints and linkages that adapt their configuration based on the desired position, eliminating the need for complex fixed actuation mechanisms while maintaining reliable positioning through geometric constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting mechanism is divided into multiple independent bars and linkages (first bar, second bar, third bar, fourth bar) that work together through defined joints. Each bar segment can move independently through specific ranges, allowing the system to achieve stable positioned states through the coordinated movement of segmented components rather than a single complex actuator
2Ease of operation
If a simple mounting mechanism is used to allow easy removal of the trolling motor, then the ease of operation is improved, but the stability during deployment and stowing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static mounting structure to a dynamic multi-bar linkage that actively controls the deployment and stowing motion. The movable joints and linkages provide guided motion paths that ensure stable transitions while maintaining the ability to easily remove the motor when in the stowed position through the natural geometry of the linkage system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates curved guide surfaces and arc-shaped motion paths in the joint connections between bars. These curved elements guide the trolling motor through smooth, controlled arcs during deployment and stowing, providing stability during transition while allowing easy removal when retracted to the stowed position through the defined curved path
Data Source
AI summary
A trolling motor mount to mount a trolling motor to a boat consisting of a multi-bar change point apparatus to lock the trolling motor in either a stowed position or a deployed position and a release assembly to unlock and move the multi-bar change point apparatus from either the stowed position to the deployed position or from the deployed position to the stowed position.