CA2436201C - Fishing rod holder - Google Patents
Fishing rod holder Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2436201C CA2436201C CA002436201A CA2436201A CA2436201C CA 2436201 C CA2436201 C CA 2436201C CA 002436201 A CA002436201 A CA 002436201A CA 2436201 A CA2436201 A CA 2436201A CA 2436201 C CA2436201 C CA 2436201C
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- base unit
- disposed
- rotating unit
- unit
- holder
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- 235000014676 Phragmites communis Nutrition 0.000 claims description 17
- 210000003813 thumb Anatomy 0.000 claims description 7
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- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 241000251468 Actinopterygii Species 0.000 abstract description 17
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 abstract description 6
- 241000785736 Pholis crassispina Species 0.000 abstract description 5
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000004809 Teflon Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920006362 Teflon® Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 241000276420 Lophius piscatorius Species 0.000 description 1
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004075 alteration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005260 corrosion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007797 corrosion Effects 0.000 description 1
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- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
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- 238000006467 substitution reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; AVICULTURE; APICULTURE; PISCICULTURE; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
- A01K97/00—Accessories for angling
- A01K97/10—Supports for rods
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; AVICULTURE; APICULTURE; PISCICULTURE; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
- A01K97/00—Accessories for angling
- A01K97/12—Signalling devices, e.g. tip-up devices
- A01K97/125—Signalling devices, e.g. tip-up devices using electronic components
Landscapes
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Environmental Sciences (AREA)
- Animal Husbandry (AREA)
- Biodiversity & Conservation Biology (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Microelectronics & Electronic Packaging (AREA)
- Mechanical Means For Catching Fish (AREA)
Abstract
A fishing rod holder with a strike sensor that alerts the operator that a fish has been caught. The fishing rod holder allows for horizontal striking of fish either while trolling or still-fishing. The fishing rod holder consists of a rod holder support arm assembly, a rotating unit, a base unit and an optional mounting adapter. The rod holder may be mounted for horizontal striking on the top surface of a gunnel wall on a boat or other substantially flat horizontal surface. Alternatively, the mounting adapter may be used to mount the rod holder to a boat handle rail. The rod holder support arms are slidably engaged in the support arm assembly and allow for customized vertical orientation of the rod's tip with respect to the reel. In addition, the horizontal orientation of the rod may be customized to accommodate fishing technique and fishing conditions. Finally, there is a strike sensor to alert the operator that a fish has been caught.
Description
FISHING ROD HOLDER
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to fishing pole holders that may be used to strike a fish while trolling in a boat or while still-fishing.
BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
Fishing rod holders are historically used to aid anglers and facilitate their ability to fish while performing other tasks. Current fishing rod holders require the operator to either remove the rod to strike the fish or strike the fish in a vertical manner while the rod is in the holder. Because both of these methods are inefficient and ineffective, there is a need for a fishing rod holder that allows the operator to strike the fish using the more natural and more effective horizontal motion while the fishing rod is in the holder. In addition, current rod holders do not incorporate a sensor that alerts the operator when a fish is on the line.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A fishing rod holder with an alarm sensor that notifies the operator when a fish is on the line and then allows the operator to horizontally strike the fish either while trolling or still-fishing. The fishing rod holder consists of a rod holder support arm assembly, a rotating ~CA 02436201 2006-02-13 ._ unit, abase unit and an optional mounting adapter. The rod holder may be mounted for horizontal striking on the top surface of a gunnel wall on a boat or any other substantially flat horizontal surface. Alternatively, the mounting adapter may be used to mount 'the rod holder to a boat handle rail. The rod holder support arms are slidably engaged in the support arm assembly and allow for selectable vertical orientation of the rod's tip with respect to the reel.
In addition, the horizontal orientation of the rod :may be selectable to accommodate fishing technique and fishing conditions.
A principal object and advantage of the present invention is to alert the operator when a f sh is on the line.
A principal object and advantage of the present invention is to allow horizontal striking of hsh and ease of removal of the rod from the rod holder following a strike while either trolling or still-fishing.
Another principal object and advantage of the present invention is to allow the rod to be selectably-oriented in the vertical plane as well as the horizontal plane, depending on the fishing technique selected and the conditions.
The foregoing objects of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art vrrhen the. following detailed description of the invention is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and claims. Throughout the drawings, like numerals refer to similar or identical parts.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to fishing pole holders that may be used to strike a fish while trolling in a boat or while still-fishing.
BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
Fishing rod holders are historically used to aid anglers and facilitate their ability to fish while performing other tasks. Current fishing rod holders require the operator to either remove the rod to strike the fish or strike the fish in a vertical manner while the rod is in the holder. Because both of these methods are inefficient and ineffective, there is a need for a fishing rod holder that allows the operator to strike the fish using the more natural and more effective horizontal motion while the fishing rod is in the holder. In addition, current rod holders do not incorporate a sensor that alerts the operator when a fish is on the line.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A fishing rod holder with an alarm sensor that notifies the operator when a fish is on the line and then allows the operator to horizontally strike the fish either while trolling or still-fishing. The fishing rod holder consists of a rod holder support arm assembly, a rotating ~CA 02436201 2006-02-13 ._ unit, abase unit and an optional mounting adapter. The rod holder may be mounted for horizontal striking on the top surface of a gunnel wall on a boat or any other substantially flat horizontal surface. Alternatively, the mounting adapter may be used to mount 'the rod holder to a boat handle rail. The rod holder support arms are slidably engaged in the support arm assembly and allow for selectable vertical orientation of the rod's tip with respect to the reel.
In addition, the horizontal orientation of the rod :may be selectable to accommodate fishing technique and fishing conditions.
A principal object and advantage of the present invention is to alert the operator when a f sh is on the line.
A principal object and advantage of the present invention is to allow horizontal striking of hsh and ease of removal of the rod from the rod holder following a strike while either trolling or still-fishing.
Another principal object and advantage of the present invention is to allow the rod to be selectably-oriented in the vertical plane as well as the horizontal plane, depending on the fishing technique selected and the conditions.
The foregoing objects of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art vrrhen the. following detailed description of the invention is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and claims. Throughout the drawings, like numerals refer to similar or identical parts.
2~ BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRA~VINCS
Figure 1 is a side view of the apparatus in operation while attached to a boat gunnel wall.
Figure~2 is a perspective view of the apparatus attached to a horizontal surface such as a boat gunnel wall.
Figure 3 is an exploded view of the apparatus.
.. 2_ Figure 4 is a cmss-sectional view of the apparatus.
Figure 5 is a side elevation view of the mounting adaptor.
Figures 6-$ are perspective, top elevation, and side elevation views, respectively, of the quick-mount feature of the apparatus.
Figures 9 and IO are top views showing the apparatus installed on a boat gunnel .wall while the boat is trolling.
Figure 11 is an elevation view, corresponding with Figure 9, showing the strike sensor alarm components.
Figure I2 is a schematic diagram of the strike sensor alarm.
I0 Figure l3~corresponds with Figures 9 and 11 and is a top plan view illustrating the strike sensor circuit in the open position.
Figure 14 corresponds with Figure 10 and is a top plan view illustrating a closed strike sensor circuit.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
I 5 With reference to Figures 1 and 2, a fishing and 2 is shown secured within the fishing rod holder 1. The fishing rod holder 1 is shown attached to a boat 3. The fishing rod holder 1 comprises a rod holder support arzn assembly 8, a rotating unit 50 and a base unit ?6.
The rod holder support arm assembly 8 further comprises a sleeve holder 10 and support arms 2.0, a rod cap holder 30 and a support arms base 40. The sleeve holder 10 is 20 fixedly attached to an adaptor 11. The adaptor 11 is fixedly attached to thepmximal end 2z of the, support arms 20. The method for attachirig the sleeve holder 10 to the adaptor 11 and the adaptor 11 to the support arms 20 are well known in the art and include rivets, screws and other similar means. The support arms 20 are parallel to one another, are substantially smooth, and the central sections 26 thereof are bent upward resulting in a substantially 25 curvelinear profile. The .support arms 20 are fixedly attached to each other near the distal end '-- - -------~- - _r.-.__CA 02436201 2006-02-13 24 ofthe arms to prevent motion of the arms relative to one. another, forming a joint 28. The arms 20 may be joined by various means known in the art including, for example, welding or threaded screws. The distal end_24 of the arms 20 are shaped to ease the insertion of the fishing rod 2 into the support arms 20. In addition, the distal ends 24 of the arms 20 are S coated 25 to prevent corrosion and wear of the metal surface resulting from water and continuous contact with the fishing rod 2.
Referring now to Figures 2-4, the support arms base 40 has a substantially cylindrical profile and a splined central bore 48. It is understood that the cylindrical form is aesthetic and not functional. As a result, a wide variety of profiles may be selected. A
transverse groove 46 is disposed across the top surface 42 of the support arms base 40.
The width of the transverse groove 46 is substantially equivalent to the diameter of the splined central bore 48.
The rod cap holder 30 comprises a a transverse lip.36 disposed-along a bottom surface 34. When the rod cap holder 30 engages the support arms base 40, the transverse lip 36 engages the support arms base 40, forming two transverse channels 47 that slidably capture the support anus 20 between the rod cap holder 30 and the support arms base 40. The rod cap holder 30 has a substantially smooth central, bore 38 through which a thumb screw 106 or other fastening device is disposed. When the mounting post 58 on the rotating unit SO is engaged with the splined shaft 48 of the suppoit arms base unit 40, the arms support assembly 8 is secured to the rotating unit 50 by threadabiy engaging the thumb screw 106 that extends from the rod cap holder 30 to the threaded central bore 72 of the mounting post S8.
This screw 106 may be loosened to allow adjustment of the vertical orientation of the fishing _ rod 2 by sliding the support arms 20 forward or backward in the transverse channels 47 of the support aims assembly 8. The thumb screw 106 is then tightened to retain the support arms 20 in the desired orientation.
Figure 1 is a side view of the apparatus in operation while attached to a boat gunnel wall.
Figure~2 is a perspective view of the apparatus attached to a horizontal surface such as a boat gunnel wall.
Figure 3 is an exploded view of the apparatus.
.. 2_ Figure 4 is a cmss-sectional view of the apparatus.
Figure 5 is a side elevation view of the mounting adaptor.
Figures 6-$ are perspective, top elevation, and side elevation views, respectively, of the quick-mount feature of the apparatus.
Figures 9 and IO are top views showing the apparatus installed on a boat gunnel .wall while the boat is trolling.
Figure 11 is an elevation view, corresponding with Figure 9, showing the strike sensor alarm components.
Figure I2 is a schematic diagram of the strike sensor alarm.
I0 Figure l3~corresponds with Figures 9 and 11 and is a top plan view illustrating the strike sensor circuit in the open position.
Figure 14 corresponds with Figure 10 and is a top plan view illustrating a closed strike sensor circuit.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
I 5 With reference to Figures 1 and 2, a fishing and 2 is shown secured within the fishing rod holder 1. The fishing rod holder 1 is shown attached to a boat 3. The fishing rod holder 1 comprises a rod holder support arzn assembly 8, a rotating unit 50 and a base unit ?6.
The rod holder support arm assembly 8 further comprises a sleeve holder 10 and support arms 2.0, a rod cap holder 30 and a support arms base 40. The sleeve holder 10 is 20 fixedly attached to an adaptor 11. The adaptor 11 is fixedly attached to thepmximal end 2z of the, support arms 20. The method for attachirig the sleeve holder 10 to the adaptor 11 and the adaptor 11 to the support arms 20 are well known in the art and include rivets, screws and other similar means. The support arms 20 are parallel to one another, are substantially smooth, and the central sections 26 thereof are bent upward resulting in a substantially 25 curvelinear profile. The .support arms 20 are fixedly attached to each other near the distal end '-- - -------~- - _r.-.__CA 02436201 2006-02-13 24 ofthe arms to prevent motion of the arms relative to one. another, forming a joint 28. The arms 20 may be joined by various means known in the art including, for example, welding or threaded screws. The distal end_24 of the arms 20 are shaped to ease the insertion of the fishing rod 2 into the support arms 20. In addition, the distal ends 24 of the arms 20 are S coated 25 to prevent corrosion and wear of the metal surface resulting from water and continuous contact with the fishing rod 2.
Referring now to Figures 2-4, the support arms base 40 has a substantially cylindrical profile and a splined central bore 48. It is understood that the cylindrical form is aesthetic and not functional. As a result, a wide variety of profiles may be selected. A
transverse groove 46 is disposed across the top surface 42 of the support arms base 40.
The width of the transverse groove 46 is substantially equivalent to the diameter of the splined central bore 48.
The rod cap holder 30 comprises a a transverse lip.36 disposed-along a bottom surface 34. When the rod cap holder 30 engages the support arms base 40, the transverse lip 36 engages the support arms base 40, forming two transverse channels 47 that slidably capture the support anus 20 between the rod cap holder 30 and the support arms base 40. The rod cap holder 30 has a substantially smooth central, bore 38 through which a thumb screw 106 or other fastening device is disposed. When the mounting post 58 on the rotating unit SO is engaged with the splined shaft 48 of the suppoit arms base unit 40, the arms support assembly 8 is secured to the rotating unit 50 by threadabiy engaging the thumb screw 106 that extends from the rod cap holder 30 to the threaded central bore 72 of the mounting post S8.
This screw 106 may be loosened to allow adjustment of the vertical orientation of the fishing _ rod 2 by sliding the support arms 20 forward or backward in the transverse channels 47 of the support aims assembly 8. The thumb screw 106 is then tightened to retain the support arms 20 in the desired orientation.
The rotating unit 50 has a substantially cylindrical .profile and further comprises a mounting post 58 fxedly attached to substantially the center of the top surface 52 of the rotating unit 50. The mounting post 58 has a threaded central bore 72 and a splined profile section. A rotational stop pin channel 60 is circumferentially disposed on the bottom surface 54 of the rotating unit 50 forming an outer lip 62 and an inner lip 64. A
rotational stop pin 66 is fixedly mounted in the rotational stop pin channel 60. The lower portion of rotating unit 50 comprises a substantially smooth lower cylinder 68. An anti-rotate pin 70 is fixedly attached to the bottom surface 69 of the lower cylinder 68: The lower cylinder 68 has a threaded central bore 74.
The base;unif 76 comprises a central bore 84 extending therethrough. The diameter of the central bore 84 widens approximately halfway though base unit 76, forming a central bore lip 90 when viewed from the bottom. ,The central bore 84 is partially lined with a flange bearing 86 that extends, and includes a flange lip 88, above the top surface 78 of the base unit 7G. The flange bearing 86 may be composed of Teflon or any similar material that allows for 1 S minimal rotational friction. When lined with the flange hearing 86, the central bore 84 rotatably engages the lower cylinder 68 on the bottom surface 54 of the rotating unit 50. The base unit 76 further comprises a rotational stop pin 92 extending from the top surface 78.
The stop pin 92 is ciroumferentially positioned to move within rotational stop pin channel 60, allowing for rotational contact between stop pin 66 and rotational stop pin 92 during operation.
A thrust bearing 9~ is disposed on the central bore lip 90 and may be composed of Teflon or other friction-minimizing material. The thrust bearing 94 is held in place by a bearing retainer 96. The bearing retainer 96 has a substantially smooth central bore 98 through which a retaining bolt 102 is disposed and an aperture 100 that receives the anti-rotate pin 70, stopping the complete rotation of the rotating unit 50 and preventing the 5_ retaining bolt 102 from backing out during operation. The retaining bolt I 02 threadably engages the threaded central bore 74 in the rotating unit's lower cylinder G8 thereby biasing the bearing retainer 96 against the thrust bearing 94 and connecting the base unit 76 to the rotating unit 50. The horizontal rotational tension is adjusted by tightening or loosening the retaining bolt 102. Compression washers 104 or other similar biasing means are used in conjunction with the retaining bolt 102 to provide the spring resistance necessary to offer minimal friction on the flange bearing 86 during rotation of the rotating unit 50. The bottom surface 80 of the base unit 76 has a plurality of threaded holes 108 to be used for mounting to a flat surface, using mounting screws 109 or similar means, or for attaching the mounting IO adaptor 111. y Referring now to Figure S, the mounting adaptor 1 I 1 is comprised of a top member 110 and a bottom member I I2. The top and bottom members l 10 and I 12 together form a substantially cylindrical cavity 1 i7 capable of securely fastening the fishing rod holder to boat handle rails or 'other similar structures. It is understood that in practice the cavity profile I 5 can take on virtually any shape as long as it is capable of fastening to boat handle rails or other similar structures. The top 110 and bottom 112 members are secured to the appropriate structure using mounting screws 1.09 or similar fastening means.
An alternate embodiment of the apparatus allowing for quick mounting and directional biasing of the fishing rod holder is provided for in. Figures 6-8.
This embodiment 20 requires a mounting block 118 with a top section i20 having a polygonal profile 134 with a diariveter,greater than that of the bottom section 126. The side surface 127 of the bottom section 126 of the mounting block 118 further has a plurality of apertures 140.
This embodiment includes a quick-mount adaptor 131 that is fixedly attached to the bottom surface 80 of the base unit 76. The adaptor has a polygonal profile cavity i32 that 25 matches the profile of the top section 120 of the mounting block 118 and which nonrotatabiy slidably engages the top section I20 of the mounting block I 18. When fully engaged, the tap surface 122 of the mounting block 118 is substantially disposed against the bottom surface 80 of the base unit 76 and the sides 132 of the polygonal profile of the quick mount adaptor 13I
are nonrotatably engaged with the side surfaces 121 of the top section 120 of the mounting unit I 18. A plurality of threaded holes 13G are disposed in the quick-mount adaptor I31 for fastening the adaptor 131 to the bottom of the base unit 7G. A mounting gaskeE
I 07 is further disposed between the adaptor 131 and the bottom of the base unit 7G. In addition, at least one aperture L28 is provided on the side surface 133 of the quick-mount adaptor 131: This aperture 128 is used to secure the fishing rod holder when the apparatus is engaged with the mounting unit 1h8 by insertion of~a fastening device such as a key or pin 130 as shown in Figures 7-8. The pin l 30 engages the aperture I28 on the quick-mount adaptar 131 and the aperture 140 disposed on the side surface 127 of the bottom section 12d of the mounting unit 118.
Turning now to Figures 11-14, the strike sensor will be discussed. The configuration 1 S of elements in Figures 11 and I3 correspond directly to those illustrated in Figure 9. In addition, the conf guration of elements in' Figure 14 correspond diiectly to those illustrated in Figure 10. The strike sensor allows the operator to detect when a f sh is on the fine fiom a location remote from the f shing rod 1. The strike sensor comprises a sensor rriagnet I42 mounted in the rotating unit 54, a reed switch I44 disposed in the base unit 76, and an alarm I46 disposed in the base unit 76. In the preferred embodiment, the alarm provides a sound to alert the operator. Figure 1~2 illustrates the schettiatic circuit for the strike sensor wherein the sensor magnet 142 is located proximal to the reed switch 144 with the reed switch still in the open position.
The strike sensor may be used when fishing using either a fonvard or backtvard trolling technique. Figure 13 illustrates this configuration. When a~fish strikes, the fishing _ 7_ rod holder is caused to rotate in the direction opposite the trolling boat until the rotating unit rotational stop pin 66 contacts the base unit rotational stop pin 92. As seen in Figure 14, this places the sensor magnet 142 in proximity to the reed switch 144, preferably directly over the top of the switch, which is normally in the open position, thus closing the circuit 150 and causing the battery-driven alarm 146 to sound.
OPERATLON OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
With the foregoing description of the present invention; its operation can now be fully explained.
With reference to Figures i and 2, the butt end 4 of the fishing rod 2 is received by the sleeve holder lOr and the rod 2 is allowed to rest against the conjunction.28 of the support arms 20. The vertical orientation of the tip 5 of the rod 2 with respect to the butt end 4 can be adjusted by loosening the thumb screw lOG and sliding the support arms 20 fonvardly within the transverse channels 47 bf the support arms assembly 8 or rearwardly to decrease the I S height ofthe rod tip 5. The fishing rod 2 can be oriented in a substantially vertical position by sliding the~support arms 20 completely forward, bringing the adaptor I I
into contact with the support arms assembly 8. Conversely, the rod tip 5 may be oriented below the butt end 4 of.the rod 2 in a less than horizontal position by sliding the support arms 20 back until the conjunction 28 between the support arrris 20 is contacted by the support arms assembly 8.
Thus, the rod tip 5 may be oriented vertically in any position between these t<vo extremes relative to the butt end 4 of the rod 2. Once the desired rod orientation has been established, the thumb screw I06 is then retightened, fixedly retaining the support arms 20 in the support arms assembly 8. In this manner, the support anus 20 are captured in the transverse channels 47 created by the rod cap holder 30 and the support arms base 40. The thumb screw I Q6 is threadably engaged with the threaded central bore 72 of the ~ rotating unit's splined .mounting posf 58. .
_ g_ With the vertical orientation of the fishing rod holder established, the fishing rod holder's horizontal orientation may now be described. There are three elements that provide customization of horizontal orientation. First, as indicated by Figures 6-.8, the mounting ' block I 18 and the interior side surfaces I32 of the quick-mount adapter I31, have slidably engageable and complementary pmf les. This allows quick-mount adapter 131 to be disengaged'by removing the pin 13.0, rotating the adapter 13I such that the rod 2 is directed over the fishing area and the adapter 131 reengaged with the mounting block I
I8 and reseeured with the pin 130. Second, the engagement of the splined profile located in the central bore 48 ~of the support arms base 40 with the mounting post 58 of the rotating unit 50 allows the operaioT to orient the fishing rod holder using a full 360 degrees of horizontal motion. The transverse channels 47 created by the rod cap holder 30 and the support arms base 40 allows for two directional positions, 180 degrees from each other, for the fishing rod 2 at any given splined engagement. The third component available to establish proper horizontal orientation of the fishing rod 2 involves the rotational stop pin 92 on the base unit 76. The rod holder apparatus may be rotated approximately 355 degrees in either direction from the rotational stop pin 92 on the base unit 76. This pin 92 determines where the fishing rod holder's rotation wilt be stopped as it contacts the rotational stop pin 66 on the rotating unit 50. .
If trolling, the apparatus is preferably mounted with the base unit's rotational stop pin 92 oriented substantially as shown in Figures 9 and 10. The arrow, in Figure 9 indicates the direction of travel of the boat 3. The transverse channel 47 in the support arms assembly 8 is oriented to allow the rod 2 to be held out over the water. The rod 2 is free to rotate in the direction opposite that of the moving boat 3 until the rotating unit's rotational stop pin 66 and the base unit's rotational stop pin 92 come into contact, preventing further horizontal rotation.
However, if the strike sensor is used, it is preferable to troll with the rod holder configured such that the rotating unit's rotational stop pin 66 and the base unit's rotational stop pin 92 are not in contact as.in Figure 9. This horizontal position is attained by adjusting the horizontal rotational tension of the fishing rod holder by tightening or loosening the retaining bolt 102 as indicated in Figures 3 and 4 Figures 11-I4 illustrate the strike sensor which alerts the operator when a fish is on the line: Generally, as noted, the rod holder 1 is used while trolling in either a forward or backward trolling motion. Refernng particularly to Figures 1 l and 13, the orientation of the fishing rod holder as illustrated iri both Figures corresponds to that of Figure 9 to. illustrate the sensor component positioning when in the trolling position. Irt this instance, the rotational . unit's rotational 'stop pin 66 and the base unit's rotational stop pin 92 are not in contact and the strike sensor is not activated.
Activation of the strike sensor,.by closing the circuit 150 is illustrated in Figure 14.
When a fish strikes, the fishing rod holder rotates horizontally until the rotational stop pin 66 -of the rotating unit 50 contacts the rotational stop pin 92 of the base unit.
'~6. In this configuration, the magnet 142 is positioned proximally, preferably directly over, the reed switch I44. The reed switch 144 is normally in the open position, as indicated iii Figure 12.
When the magnet 142 is positioned aver the reed switch 144, the Switch closes, creating a closed circuit 1 SO which causes the alarm to sound, notifying the operator that-a fish has been hooked. The reed switch I44 then closes in response to the magnetic field, completing the circuit ISO and allows the current from the battery source 148 to flow to the alarm I46. The use of.a reed switch 144, embedded within the assembled fishing rod holder, eliminates the need for any external switches. In addition, placing the sensor components within the fishing rod holder renders the strike sensor virtually waterproof and splash resistant.
The horizontal rotational tension of the f sting rod holder is adjusted by tightening or loosening the retaining bolt 102 which is shown in Figures 3 and 4. This feature is important for two reasons. First, since the drag of the fishing line and the bait attached thereto during trolling tends to cause the fishing rod holder to rotate horizontally, a certain horizontal rotational tension is necessary to counteract the force of the water during the trolling action in order to prevent the rod holder from simply rotating such that the rotating unit rotational stop pin 66 and the base unit rotational stop pin 92 come into contact. This enables the operator to take into account trolling speed, the type of fzshing; e.g., fishing in contact with-the bottom, and external weather and water conditions. This lessens the likelihood of obtaining a "false positive"strike alan-n. Second, the horizontal rotational tension cans used to fine tune,the alarm sensitivity depending on the type of fishing lure that is being used. By way of example, a large bill bait may require a more resistance to horizontal rotation than would a small billed bait to account for the difference in drag between the two types of bait.
Generally, when a fish is detected, the operator may strike the fish in a horizontal manner by rotating the apparatus as described herein. The fishing rod may then be quickly, easily and-smoothly removed from the apparatus at any time to facilitate reeling the f sh in.
The above specification describes certain preferred embodiments of this invention.
This specification is in no way intended to limit the scope of the claims.
Other modifications, alterations, or substitutions may now suggest themselves to those skilled in the art, all of which are within the spirit and scope of the present invention. It is therefore intended that the present invention be limited only by the scope of fhe attached claims below:
rotational stop pin 66 is fixedly mounted in the rotational stop pin channel 60. The lower portion of rotating unit 50 comprises a substantially smooth lower cylinder 68. An anti-rotate pin 70 is fixedly attached to the bottom surface 69 of the lower cylinder 68: The lower cylinder 68 has a threaded central bore 74.
The base;unif 76 comprises a central bore 84 extending therethrough. The diameter of the central bore 84 widens approximately halfway though base unit 76, forming a central bore lip 90 when viewed from the bottom. ,The central bore 84 is partially lined with a flange bearing 86 that extends, and includes a flange lip 88, above the top surface 78 of the base unit 7G. The flange bearing 86 may be composed of Teflon or any similar material that allows for 1 S minimal rotational friction. When lined with the flange hearing 86, the central bore 84 rotatably engages the lower cylinder 68 on the bottom surface 54 of the rotating unit 50. The base unit 76 further comprises a rotational stop pin 92 extending from the top surface 78.
The stop pin 92 is ciroumferentially positioned to move within rotational stop pin channel 60, allowing for rotational contact between stop pin 66 and rotational stop pin 92 during operation.
A thrust bearing 9~ is disposed on the central bore lip 90 and may be composed of Teflon or other friction-minimizing material. The thrust bearing 94 is held in place by a bearing retainer 96. The bearing retainer 96 has a substantially smooth central bore 98 through which a retaining bolt 102 is disposed and an aperture 100 that receives the anti-rotate pin 70, stopping the complete rotation of the rotating unit 50 and preventing the 5_ retaining bolt 102 from backing out during operation. The retaining bolt I 02 threadably engages the threaded central bore 74 in the rotating unit's lower cylinder G8 thereby biasing the bearing retainer 96 against the thrust bearing 94 and connecting the base unit 76 to the rotating unit 50. The horizontal rotational tension is adjusted by tightening or loosening the retaining bolt 102. Compression washers 104 or other similar biasing means are used in conjunction with the retaining bolt 102 to provide the spring resistance necessary to offer minimal friction on the flange bearing 86 during rotation of the rotating unit 50. The bottom surface 80 of the base unit 76 has a plurality of threaded holes 108 to be used for mounting to a flat surface, using mounting screws 109 or similar means, or for attaching the mounting IO adaptor 111. y Referring now to Figure S, the mounting adaptor 1 I 1 is comprised of a top member 110 and a bottom member I I2. The top and bottom members l 10 and I 12 together form a substantially cylindrical cavity 1 i7 capable of securely fastening the fishing rod holder to boat handle rails or 'other similar structures. It is understood that in practice the cavity profile I 5 can take on virtually any shape as long as it is capable of fastening to boat handle rails or other similar structures. The top 110 and bottom 112 members are secured to the appropriate structure using mounting screws 1.09 or similar fastening means.
An alternate embodiment of the apparatus allowing for quick mounting and directional biasing of the fishing rod holder is provided for in. Figures 6-8.
This embodiment 20 requires a mounting block 118 with a top section i20 having a polygonal profile 134 with a diariveter,greater than that of the bottom section 126. The side surface 127 of the bottom section 126 of the mounting block 118 further has a plurality of apertures 140.
This embodiment includes a quick-mount adaptor 131 that is fixedly attached to the bottom surface 80 of the base unit 76. The adaptor has a polygonal profile cavity i32 that 25 matches the profile of the top section 120 of the mounting block 118 and which nonrotatabiy slidably engages the top section I20 of the mounting block I 18. When fully engaged, the tap surface 122 of the mounting block 118 is substantially disposed against the bottom surface 80 of the base unit 76 and the sides 132 of the polygonal profile of the quick mount adaptor 13I
are nonrotatably engaged with the side surfaces 121 of the top section 120 of the mounting unit I 18. A plurality of threaded holes 13G are disposed in the quick-mount adaptor I31 for fastening the adaptor 131 to the bottom of the base unit 7G. A mounting gaskeE
I 07 is further disposed between the adaptor 131 and the bottom of the base unit 7G. In addition, at least one aperture L28 is provided on the side surface 133 of the quick-mount adaptor 131: This aperture 128 is used to secure the fishing rod holder when the apparatus is engaged with the mounting unit 1h8 by insertion of~a fastening device such as a key or pin 130 as shown in Figures 7-8. The pin l 30 engages the aperture I28 on the quick-mount adaptar 131 and the aperture 140 disposed on the side surface 127 of the bottom section 12d of the mounting unit 118.
Turning now to Figures 11-14, the strike sensor will be discussed. The configuration 1 S of elements in Figures 11 and I3 correspond directly to those illustrated in Figure 9. In addition, the conf guration of elements in' Figure 14 correspond diiectly to those illustrated in Figure 10. The strike sensor allows the operator to detect when a f sh is on the fine fiom a location remote from the f shing rod 1. The strike sensor comprises a sensor rriagnet I42 mounted in the rotating unit 54, a reed switch I44 disposed in the base unit 76, and an alarm I46 disposed in the base unit 76. In the preferred embodiment, the alarm provides a sound to alert the operator. Figure 1~2 illustrates the schettiatic circuit for the strike sensor wherein the sensor magnet 142 is located proximal to the reed switch 144 with the reed switch still in the open position.
The strike sensor may be used when fishing using either a fonvard or backtvard trolling technique. Figure 13 illustrates this configuration. When a~fish strikes, the fishing _ 7_ rod holder is caused to rotate in the direction opposite the trolling boat until the rotating unit rotational stop pin 66 contacts the base unit rotational stop pin 92. As seen in Figure 14, this places the sensor magnet 142 in proximity to the reed switch 144, preferably directly over the top of the switch, which is normally in the open position, thus closing the circuit 150 and causing the battery-driven alarm 146 to sound.
OPERATLON OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
With the foregoing description of the present invention; its operation can now be fully explained.
With reference to Figures i and 2, the butt end 4 of the fishing rod 2 is received by the sleeve holder lOr and the rod 2 is allowed to rest against the conjunction.28 of the support arms 20. The vertical orientation of the tip 5 of the rod 2 with respect to the butt end 4 can be adjusted by loosening the thumb screw lOG and sliding the support arms 20 fonvardly within the transverse channels 47 bf the support arms assembly 8 or rearwardly to decrease the I S height ofthe rod tip 5. The fishing rod 2 can be oriented in a substantially vertical position by sliding the~support arms 20 completely forward, bringing the adaptor I I
into contact with the support arms assembly 8. Conversely, the rod tip 5 may be oriented below the butt end 4 of.the rod 2 in a less than horizontal position by sliding the support arms 20 back until the conjunction 28 between the support arrris 20 is contacted by the support arms assembly 8.
Thus, the rod tip 5 may be oriented vertically in any position between these t<vo extremes relative to the butt end 4 of the rod 2. Once the desired rod orientation has been established, the thumb screw I06 is then retightened, fixedly retaining the support arms 20 in the support arms assembly 8. In this manner, the support anus 20 are captured in the transverse channels 47 created by the rod cap holder 30 and the support arms base 40. The thumb screw I Q6 is threadably engaged with the threaded central bore 72 of the ~ rotating unit's splined .mounting posf 58. .
_ g_ With the vertical orientation of the fishing rod holder established, the fishing rod holder's horizontal orientation may now be described. There are three elements that provide customization of horizontal orientation. First, as indicated by Figures 6-.8, the mounting ' block I 18 and the interior side surfaces I32 of the quick-mount adapter I31, have slidably engageable and complementary pmf les. This allows quick-mount adapter 131 to be disengaged'by removing the pin 13.0, rotating the adapter 13I such that the rod 2 is directed over the fishing area and the adapter 131 reengaged with the mounting block I
I8 and reseeured with the pin 130. Second, the engagement of the splined profile located in the central bore 48 ~of the support arms base 40 with the mounting post 58 of the rotating unit 50 allows the operaioT to orient the fishing rod holder using a full 360 degrees of horizontal motion. The transverse channels 47 created by the rod cap holder 30 and the support arms base 40 allows for two directional positions, 180 degrees from each other, for the fishing rod 2 at any given splined engagement. The third component available to establish proper horizontal orientation of the fishing rod 2 involves the rotational stop pin 92 on the base unit 76. The rod holder apparatus may be rotated approximately 355 degrees in either direction from the rotational stop pin 92 on the base unit 76. This pin 92 determines where the fishing rod holder's rotation wilt be stopped as it contacts the rotational stop pin 66 on the rotating unit 50. .
If trolling, the apparatus is preferably mounted with the base unit's rotational stop pin 92 oriented substantially as shown in Figures 9 and 10. The arrow, in Figure 9 indicates the direction of travel of the boat 3. The transverse channel 47 in the support arms assembly 8 is oriented to allow the rod 2 to be held out over the water. The rod 2 is free to rotate in the direction opposite that of the moving boat 3 until the rotating unit's rotational stop pin 66 and the base unit's rotational stop pin 92 come into contact, preventing further horizontal rotation.
However, if the strike sensor is used, it is preferable to troll with the rod holder configured such that the rotating unit's rotational stop pin 66 and the base unit's rotational stop pin 92 are not in contact as.in Figure 9. This horizontal position is attained by adjusting the horizontal rotational tension of the fishing rod holder by tightening or loosening the retaining bolt 102 as indicated in Figures 3 and 4 Figures 11-I4 illustrate the strike sensor which alerts the operator when a fish is on the line: Generally, as noted, the rod holder 1 is used while trolling in either a forward or backward trolling motion. Refernng particularly to Figures 1 l and 13, the orientation of the fishing rod holder as illustrated iri both Figures corresponds to that of Figure 9 to. illustrate the sensor component positioning when in the trolling position. Irt this instance, the rotational . unit's rotational 'stop pin 66 and the base unit's rotational stop pin 92 are not in contact and the strike sensor is not activated.
Activation of the strike sensor,.by closing the circuit 150 is illustrated in Figure 14.
When a fish strikes, the fishing rod holder rotates horizontally until the rotational stop pin 66 -of the rotating unit 50 contacts the rotational stop pin 92 of the base unit.
'~6. In this configuration, the magnet 142 is positioned proximally, preferably directly over, the reed switch I44. The reed switch 144 is normally in the open position, as indicated iii Figure 12.
When the magnet 142 is positioned aver the reed switch 144, the Switch closes, creating a closed circuit 1 SO which causes the alarm to sound, notifying the operator that-a fish has been hooked. The reed switch I44 then closes in response to the magnetic field, completing the circuit ISO and allows the current from the battery source 148 to flow to the alarm I46. The use of.a reed switch 144, embedded within the assembled fishing rod holder, eliminates the need for any external switches. In addition, placing the sensor components within the fishing rod holder renders the strike sensor virtually waterproof and splash resistant.
The horizontal rotational tension of the f sting rod holder is adjusted by tightening or loosening the retaining bolt 102 which is shown in Figures 3 and 4. This feature is important for two reasons. First, since the drag of the fishing line and the bait attached thereto during trolling tends to cause the fishing rod holder to rotate horizontally, a certain horizontal rotational tension is necessary to counteract the force of the water during the trolling action in order to prevent the rod holder from simply rotating such that the rotating unit rotational stop pin 66 and the base unit rotational stop pin 92 come into contact. This enables the operator to take into account trolling speed, the type of fzshing; e.g., fishing in contact with-the bottom, and external weather and water conditions. This lessens the likelihood of obtaining a "false positive"strike alan-n. Second, the horizontal rotational tension cans used to fine tune,the alarm sensitivity depending on the type of fishing lure that is being used. By way of example, a large bill bait may require a more resistance to horizontal rotation than would a small billed bait to account for the difference in drag between the two types of bait.
Generally, when a fish is detected, the operator may strike the fish in a horizontal manner by rotating the apparatus as described herein. The fishing rod may then be quickly, easily and-smoothly removed from the apparatus at any time to facilitate reeling the f sh in.
The above specification describes certain preferred embodiments of this invention.
This specification is in no way intended to limit the scope of the claims.
Other modifications, alterations, or substitutions may now suggest themselves to those skilled in the art, all of which are within the spirit and scope of the present invention. It is therefore intended that the present invention be limited only by the scope of fhe attached claims below:
Claims (14)
1. A fishing rod holder, comprising:
a support arm assembly, including a sleeve holder and one or more support arms for holding a fishing rod;
an arm support holder that slidably engages the support arms to allow vertical orientation of the fishing rod;
a rotating unit connected to the arm support holder;
a base unit rotatably engaged with the rotating unit, the rotating unit being capable of free horizontal rotation relative to the base unit; and a strike sensor disposed within the rotating unit and base unit.
a support arm assembly, including a sleeve holder and one or more support arms for holding a fishing rod;
an arm support holder that slidably engages the support arms to allow vertical orientation of the fishing rod;
a rotating unit connected to the arm support holder;
a base unit rotatably engaged with the rotating unit, the rotating unit being capable of free horizontal rotation relative to the base unit; and a strike sensor disposed within the rotating unit and base unit.
2. The fishing rod holder of claim 1 wherein the rotating unit is capable of approximately 355 degrees of free horizontal rotation relative to the base unit.
3. The fishing rod holder of claim 1, wherein the rotating unit further comprises a bottom surface wherein a circumferential channel is disposed thereon and a rotating unit rotational stop pin disposed within the circumferential channel.
4. The fishing rod holder of claim 3, wherein the base unit further comprises a top surface and a base unit rotational stop pin extending from the top surface such that the base unit rotational stop pin slidably engages the circumferential channel of the rotating unit when the base unit and the rotating unit are engaged, the rotating unit being capable of free horizontal rotation relative to the base unit until the rotating unit rotational stop pin and the base unit rotational stop pin are in contact.
5. The fishing rod holder of claim 1, wherein the strike sensor comprises a circuit, the circuit consisting of:
a direct current battery source disposed in the base unit;
a reed switch electrically connected to the battery source;
a sensor magnet disposed in the rotating unit, the sensor magnet being capable of being positioned in vertical proximity to the reed switch; and an alarm electrically connected to the battery source and the reed switch, the alarm receiving current when the reed switch closes.
a direct current battery source disposed in the base unit;
a reed switch electrically connected to the battery source;
a sensor magnet disposed in the rotating unit, the sensor magnet being capable of being positioned in vertical proximity to the reed switch; and an alarm electrically connected to the battery source and the reed switch, the alarm receiving current when the reed switch closes.
6. The fishing rod holder of claim 1 further comprising a mounting adaptor, the adaptor fixedly attached to the base unit, the adaptor being capable of adjusting the horizontal positioning of the fishing rod holder.
7. A fishing rod holder comprising:
a support arm assembly including a sleeve holder and one or more support arms for holding a fishing rod;
an arm support holder that slidably engages said support arms to allow vertical orientation of the fishing rod;
a rotating unit connected to the arm support holder, the rotating unit having a bottom surface wherein a circumferential channel is disposed thereon, a rotating unit rotational stop pin being mounted within the circumferential channel;
a base unit that rotatably engages the rotating unit, the base unit having a top surface and a base unit rotational stop pin extending from the top surface such that the base unit rotational-stop pin slidably engages the circumferential channel of the rotating unit when the base unit and the rotating unit are engaged, the rotating unit being capable of approximately 355 degrees of free horizontal rotation relative to the base unit, the rotation stopped when the rotating unit rotational stop pin and the base unit rotational stop pin are in contact;
a mounting adaptor, fixedly attached to the base unit, the mounting adaptor being capable of adjusting the horizontal positioning of the fishing rod holder;
and a strike sensor comprised of a circuit, the circuit consisting of:
a direct current battery source disposed in the base unit;
a reed switch electrically connected to the battery source;
a sensor magnet disposed in the rotating unit, the sensor magnet being capable of being positioned in vertical proximity to the reed switch;
and an alarm electrically connected to the battery source and the reed switch, the alarm receiving current when the reed switch closes.
a support arm assembly including a sleeve holder and one or more support arms for holding a fishing rod;
an arm support holder that slidably engages said support arms to allow vertical orientation of the fishing rod;
a rotating unit connected to the arm support holder, the rotating unit having a bottom surface wherein a circumferential channel is disposed thereon, a rotating unit rotational stop pin being mounted within the circumferential channel;
a base unit that rotatably engages the rotating unit, the base unit having a top surface and a base unit rotational stop pin extending from the top surface such that the base unit rotational-stop pin slidably engages the circumferential channel of the rotating unit when the base unit and the rotating unit are engaged, the rotating unit being capable of approximately 355 degrees of free horizontal rotation relative to the base unit, the rotation stopped when the rotating unit rotational stop pin and the base unit rotational stop pin are in contact;
a mounting adaptor, fixedly attached to the base unit, the mounting adaptor being capable of adjusting the horizontal positioning of the fishing rod holder;
and a strike sensor comprised of a circuit, the circuit consisting of:
a direct current battery source disposed in the base unit;
a reed switch electrically connected to the battery source;
a sensor magnet disposed in the rotating unit, the sensor magnet being capable of being positioned in vertical proximity to the reed switch;
and an alarm electrically connected to the battery source and the reed switch, the alarm receiving current when the reed switch closes.
8. A fishing rod holder apparatus comprising:
a support arm assembly, including a sleeve holder for receiving the butt end of a fishing rod, said sleeve holder including:
a top surface;
a bottom surface;
a proximal end; and a distal end;
at least two support arms including:
a proximal end;
a distal end; and a central section therebetween;
said support arms being fixedly attached to said bottom surface of said distal end of said sleeve holder, said support arms being substantially separated from each other and parallel to each other with and having a substantially curvilinear profile, said support arms being connected to each other in at least one place in said central section, said support arms being bent outward and upward at said distal end so as to receivably support and retain the central section of a fishing rod;
a rod cap holder with a top surface and a bottom surface;
said bottom surface of said rod cap holder having a transverse lip;
and said rod cap holder having a central bore;
an arm support base unit including:
a top surface; and a bottom surface;
said top surface of said arm support base unit having a transverse groove disposed therein;
said arm support base unit further having a central bore with a splined profile;
a rotating unit including:
a top surface; and a bottom surface;
a circumferential edge;
a splined mounting shaft disposed substantially near the center of said top surface of said rotating unit;
said bottom surface having a rotational stop pin channel disposed circumferentially thereon forming an inner lip and act outer lip;
a rotational stop pin is fixedly attached in substantially the center of said rotational stop pin channel, said rotational stop pin is visible on said top surface of rotating unit, but not extending substantially above said top surface;
said rotational stop pin is disposed a fixed distance from the circumferential edge of said rotating unit;
a smooth shaft having a bottom surface is disposed substantially near the center of said bottom surface of said rotating unit;
an anti-rotate pin is fixedly attached to said bottom surface of said smooth shaft; and a threaded central bore is disposed within said splined mounting shaft and said smooth shaft;
a base unit including:
a top surface;
a bottom surface;
and a circumferential edge;
a central bore; and a flange bearing that partially covers said central bore and extends above said top surface forming a flange bearing lip, said central bore rotatably receives said smooth shaft on said rotating unit;
said central bore widens forming a lip, said flange bearing covers the narrow portion of said central bore;
said top surface further includes a rotational stop pin that is disposed at substantially the same distance from said circumferential edge of said base unit as said rotational stop pin disposed on said bottom of said rotating unit is disposed from said circumferential edge;
a thrust bearing is disposed on said lip within said central bore;
said thrust bearing is held in position by a bearing retainer, said bearing retainer having a substantially smooth central bore and an aperture to receive said anti-rotate pin;
a retaining bolt is disposed through compression washers and through said central bore of said bearing retainer; said retaining bolt threadably engages said threaded central bore of said smooth shaft of said rotating unit;
said splined central bore of said arms support base is engaged with said splined mounting shaft of said rotating unit;
said support arms are placed in said transverse groove of said arms support base and said rod cap holder engages said arms support base, said transverse lip of said rod cap holder is disposed between said support arms;
a thumb screw is disposed through said central bore of said rod cap holder and threadably engages said threaded central bore of said splined mounting shaft;
a means for adjusting the horizontal directional orientation of the rod;
a means for mounting said apparatus to a substantially flat surface or to substantially cylindrical objects, wherein said rotating assembly is rotatably engaged with said base unit; and a means for mounting said base unit to a substantially flat surface or to substantially cylindrical objects.
a support arm assembly, including a sleeve holder for receiving the butt end of a fishing rod, said sleeve holder including:
a top surface;
a bottom surface;
a proximal end; and a distal end;
at least two support arms including:
a proximal end;
a distal end; and a central section therebetween;
said support arms being fixedly attached to said bottom surface of said distal end of said sleeve holder, said support arms being substantially separated from each other and parallel to each other with and having a substantially curvilinear profile, said support arms being connected to each other in at least one place in said central section, said support arms being bent outward and upward at said distal end so as to receivably support and retain the central section of a fishing rod;
a rod cap holder with a top surface and a bottom surface;
said bottom surface of said rod cap holder having a transverse lip;
and said rod cap holder having a central bore;
an arm support base unit including:
a top surface; and a bottom surface;
said top surface of said arm support base unit having a transverse groove disposed therein;
said arm support base unit further having a central bore with a splined profile;
a rotating unit including:
a top surface; and a bottom surface;
a circumferential edge;
a splined mounting shaft disposed substantially near the center of said top surface of said rotating unit;
said bottom surface having a rotational stop pin channel disposed circumferentially thereon forming an inner lip and act outer lip;
a rotational stop pin is fixedly attached in substantially the center of said rotational stop pin channel, said rotational stop pin is visible on said top surface of rotating unit, but not extending substantially above said top surface;
said rotational stop pin is disposed a fixed distance from the circumferential edge of said rotating unit;
a smooth shaft having a bottom surface is disposed substantially near the center of said bottom surface of said rotating unit;
an anti-rotate pin is fixedly attached to said bottom surface of said smooth shaft; and a threaded central bore is disposed within said splined mounting shaft and said smooth shaft;
a base unit including:
a top surface;
a bottom surface;
and a circumferential edge;
a central bore; and a flange bearing that partially covers said central bore and extends above said top surface forming a flange bearing lip, said central bore rotatably receives said smooth shaft on said rotating unit;
said central bore widens forming a lip, said flange bearing covers the narrow portion of said central bore;
said top surface further includes a rotational stop pin that is disposed at substantially the same distance from said circumferential edge of said base unit as said rotational stop pin disposed on said bottom of said rotating unit is disposed from said circumferential edge;
a thrust bearing is disposed on said lip within said central bore;
said thrust bearing is held in position by a bearing retainer, said bearing retainer having a substantially smooth central bore and an aperture to receive said anti-rotate pin;
a retaining bolt is disposed through compression washers and through said central bore of said bearing retainer; said retaining bolt threadably engages said threaded central bore of said smooth shaft of said rotating unit;
said splined central bore of said arms support base is engaged with said splined mounting shaft of said rotating unit;
said support arms are placed in said transverse groove of said arms support base and said rod cap holder engages said arms support base, said transverse lip of said rod cap holder is disposed between said support arms;
a thumb screw is disposed through said central bore of said rod cap holder and threadably engages said threaded central bore of said splined mounting shaft;
a means for adjusting the horizontal directional orientation of the rod;
a means for mounting said apparatus to a substantially flat surface or to substantially cylindrical objects, wherein said rotating assembly is rotatably engaged with said base unit; and a means for mounting said base unit to a substantially flat surface or to substantially cylindrical objects.
9. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said means for adjusting the vertical orientation of the fishing rod's tip with respect to the reel further includes sliding said substantially curvilinear support arms in said transverse channels forwardly or rearwardly, causing said support anus to raise or lower the rod's tip with respect to the rod's reel, and further including a means for securing said support arms in the desired position;
10. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said means for adjusting the horizontal directional orientation of the rod further comprises a mounting unit with a polygonal profile and a mounting adaptor, fixedly attached to said base unit, said adaptor having a profile that matches said polygonal profile of said mounting unit, said adaptor further slidably engaging said mounting unit and disposing said fishing rod holder in the desired direction.
11. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said means for adjusting the horizontal directional orientation of the rod further comprises using said splined mounting shaft and said splined central bore of said arms support base to directionally bias said apparatus.
12. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said means for adjusting the horizontal directional orientation of the rod further comprises a means for biasing the rod's.horizontal rotational motion in a given direction by orienting said rotational stop pin disposed on said rotating unit in desired direction, whereby said.
rotational unit is free to rotate circumferentially until said rotational stop pin disposed on said rotating unit contacts said rotational stop pin disposed on said base.
rotational unit is free to rotate circumferentially until said rotational stop pin disposed on said rotating unit contacts said rotational stop pin disposed on said base.
13. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said means for mounting includes a mounting unit having a top section and a bottom section;
said top section having a top surface and a bottom surface, said top section having a diameter that is larger than said bottom section, and said top section having a polygonal profile;
said bottom section having a side surface, said side surface having a plurality of apertures disposed thereon;
said apparatus further including a mounting adaptor having a side surface and a profile complementary to said top section of said mounting unit, said mounting adaptor fixedly attached to said bottom'surface of said base unit and slidably and nonrotatably engageable with said top section of said mounting unit;
said adaptor further including at least one aperture disposed on said side surface such that a fastening device may be disposed through said adaptor aperture and further engaging said mounting adaptor aperture.
said top section having a top surface and a bottom surface, said top section having a diameter that is larger than said bottom section, and said top section having a polygonal profile;
said bottom section having a side surface, said side surface having a plurality of apertures disposed thereon;
said apparatus further including a mounting adaptor having a side surface and a profile complementary to said top section of said mounting unit, said mounting adaptor fixedly attached to said bottom'surface of said base unit and slidably and nonrotatably engageable with said top section of said mounting unit;
said adaptor further including at least one aperture disposed on said side surface such that a fastening device may be disposed through said adaptor aperture and further engaging said mounting adaptor aperture.
14. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said mounting means includes:
a top member having a top surface, a bottom surface and a transverse cavity on said bottom surface;
a bottom member having a top surface, a bottom surface and a transverse cavity on said top surface;
said top surface of said top member is fixedly attached to said bottom surface of said base unit;
said bottom surface of said top member is fixedly attached to top surface of said bottom member, such that said transverse cavities form a substantially cylindrical cavity;
said cylindrical cavity used to mount said apparatus to boat handle rails or other similarly shaped object.
a top member having a top surface, a bottom surface and a transverse cavity on said bottom surface;
a bottom member having a top surface, a bottom surface and a transverse cavity on said top surface;
said top surface of said top member is fixedly attached to said bottom surface of said base unit;
said bottom surface of said top member is fixedly attached to top surface of said bottom member, such that said transverse cavities form a substantially cylindrical cavity;
said cylindrical cavity used to mount said apparatus to boat handle rails or other similarly shaped object.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002436201A CA2436201C (en) | 2003-07-29 | 2003-07-29 | Fishing rod holder |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002436201A CA2436201C (en) | 2003-07-29 | 2003-07-29 | Fishing rod holder |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2436201A1 CA2436201A1 (en) | 2005-01-29 |
| CA2436201C true CA2436201C (en) | 2006-06-13 |
Family
ID=34085283
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002436201A Expired - Lifetime CA2436201C (en) | 2003-07-29 | 2003-07-29 | Fishing rod holder |
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| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2436201C (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US20220378031A1 (en) * | 2021-06-01 | 2022-12-01 | John William Hayes | Fishing Rod Holder |
-
2003
- 2003-07-29 CA CA002436201A patent/CA2436201C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US20220378031A1 (en) * | 2021-06-01 | 2022-12-01 | John William Hayes | Fishing Rod Holder |
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| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2436201A1 (en) | 2005-01-29 |
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