Troll Depth Measurement Using Insertion Angle and Line Length
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for estimating trolling depth in fishing are inaccurate due to the complexity of factors influencing line curvature, leading to misjudged depths and potential missed fish populations or snagging of the bottom.
Innovation Solution
Development of simplified mathematical equations and instruments that allow for accurate trolling depth calculations using only line length and insertion angle, eliminating the need to consider weight, trolling speed, and line diameter, with accompanying charts and mobile app implementations for easy measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional methods use basic trigonometry assuming constant line angle, then the measurement method is simple, but the measurement precision is poor due to line curvature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the complex four-parameter problem (line diameter, weight, trolling speed, line length) into a simplified two-parameter solution (line length and insertion angle only). The mathematical model shows that over commonly used ranges, variations in line diameter, weight, and speed change the insertion angle in proportion to troll depth, allowing these parameters to be eliminated from direct measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts only the essential parameters (line length and insertion angle) needed for accurate troll depth measurement, separating them from the non-essential parameters (line diameter, weight, trolling speed) that were previously thought to be necessary. This extraction simplifies the measurement process while maintaining accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If accurate troll depth estimation uses complex equations considering four factors, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces the number of parameters from four to two by demonstrating that line diameter, weight, and trolling speed collectively influence the insertion angle in a predictable proportional relationship. This allows the complex four-factor equations to be simplified to depend only on line length and insertion angle, dramatically reducing computational and measurement complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The simplified equations and instruments work universally across different line diameters, weights, and trolling speeds without requiring separate calibration or adjustment for each parameter. A single insertion angle measurement accounts for the combined effect of all three eliminated parameters, making the tool universally applicable.
3Ease of operation
If anglers estimate line depth using basic trigonometry, then the ease of operation is high, but the reliability is poor due to considerable error in weighted lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains the simplicity of trigonometric measurement by using only insertion angle and line length, but improves reliability by using a corrected mathematical model that accounts for line curvature effects. The new equations properly relate insertion angle to troll depth without assuming constant line angle, eliminating the considerable errors of conventional methods.
Data Source
AI summary
Described are instruments for measuring troll depths of a line, of a known length, drawn through water and having a proximal line end out of the water and a weighted, distal line end in the water. The instruments include a reference to align with the line near the proximal line end to sense the insertion angle of the line. A nonlinear depth scale marks troll depths as a polynomial function of the length and angle of insertion, the angle of insertion measured relative to e.g. a horizontal or vertical reference.