Universal Trolling Motor Pedal with Adjustable Extension Rod
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pedal-operated trolling motor steering systems are limited in their ability to be positioned at various locations within a boat, lacking adjustable features and universal joint connections for flexible placement, and often require manual operation with both feet, restricting hands-free steering.
Innovation Solution
A pedal assembly with a universal ball joint connector system and adjustable length extension rod allows for versatile positioning and operation of electric trolling motors from any location within the boat, featuring a dead-man switch and on/off switch for hands-free control, enabling steering from multiple locations with a single foot.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed rod is used to connect the pedal to the motor shaft, then the structure is simple, but the pedal cannot be positioned at various locations within the boat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universal ball joint connectors that allow the extension rod to be dynamically positioned at various angles and locations. The ball joint mechanism enables the pedal assembly to adapt to different mounting positions and orientations on the boat, transforming a static fixed rod connection into a dynamic adjustable connection system.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection structure is divided into separate modular components: a pedal assembly, an extension rod with adjustable length, and universal ball joint connectors. This segmentation allows each component to be independently positioned and adjusted, enabling the pedal to be placed at various locations within the boat while maintaining structural integrity.
2Ease of operation
If the pedal is positioned close to the motor shaft, then the control response is immediate, but the operator cannot steer from any location within the boat
Solution Approach 1:
The extension rod acts as an intermediary element between the pedal and the motor shaft bracket. It transmits the steering force and motion from the pedal over a extended distance to the motor shaft, enabling the operator to control the motor from various locations within the boat while maintaining effective mechanical coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal ball joint connectors in the extension rod allow for dynamic positioning at various distances and angles from the motor shaft. This enables the pedal to be placed optimally for operator comfort and accessibility while still providing effective mechanical linkage to the motor shaft for immediate control response.
3Extent of automation
If manual operation with both feet is required, then precise control is achieved, but hands-free steering is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The pedal assembly incorporates a dead-man switch mechanism that automatically controls motor power based on pedal depression. When the operator's foot is on the pedal, the switch remains closed and power is supplied to the motor. When the foot is removed, the switch opens and power is cut off. This self-service mechanism enables reliable hands-free operation while maintaining precise control through the operator's foot presence or absence.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the extension rod length is fixed, then manufacturing is simple, but the pedal cannot be positioned at various distances from the motor
Solution Approach 1:
The extension rod incorporates an adjustable length mechanism with telescopic sections or movable joints that allow the rod length to be dynamically changed during installation and operation. This enables the pedal to be positioned at various distances from the motor shaft to accommodate different boat configurations and operator preferences, while the adjustment mechanism maintains structural integrity and mechanical coupling.
Data Source
AI summary
A pedal control is applied to a trolling motor shaft to allow the driver of a boat to control the direction of the trolling motor from nearly any location within the boat to which the trolling motor is attached, the pedal control having a mechanical adjustable length extension rod between an adjustable height arm on the pedal and a bracket mounted to the trolling motor shaft with a universal joint applied at each end of the extension rod, allowing placement at a variety of distances and a variety of angles from the pedal on the floor of the boat to the trolling motor. A cut-off switch is optionally applied to the pivotal footplate on the pedal to turn the trolling motor on or off or remain at a constant speed.