U.S. patent application number 15/594123 was filed with the patent office on 2017-10-12 for multiple mode artificial fishing lure.
The applicant listed for this patent is SPFM, L.P.. Invention is credited to BASIL E. BATTAH, ROBERT CASTANEDA.
Application Number | 20170290312 15/594123 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54354164 |
Filed Date | 2017-10-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170290312 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
CASTANEDA; ROBERT ; et
al. |
October 12, 2017 |
MULTIPLE MODE ARTIFICIAL FISHING LURE
Abstract
A multiple mode fishing lure that includes a main body portion
having a waterproof inner capsule, the waterproof inner capsule
containing an electronic circuit to produce sounds which mimic bait
fish. The electronic circuit includes a controller having
pre-recorded bait fish sounds replaceably stored thereon and
operationally coupled to a speaker to broadcast the bait fish
sounds, a power source for providing power to the components of the
electronic circuit, and a plurality of electrodes, wherein each
electrode can be actuated, and wherein actuation of at least one of
the plurality of electrodes gives an operational result. The
multiple mode fishing lure further includes at least one hook
coupled to the main body.
Inventors: |
CASTANEDA; ROBERT; (SAN
ANTONIO, TX) ; BATTAH; BASIL E.; (SAN ANTONIO,
TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SPFM, L.P. |
SAN ANTONIO |
TX |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
54354164 |
Appl. No.: |
15/594123 |
Filed: |
May 12, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14798315 |
Jul 13, 2015 |
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15594123 |
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14728781 |
Jun 2, 2015 |
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14798315 |
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13920786 |
Jun 18, 2013 |
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14728781 |
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61660898 |
Jun 18, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A01K 65/00 20130101;
A01K 99/00 20130101; G01S 19/13 20130101; G01G 23/32 20130101; A01K
93/00 20130101; A01K 97/00 20130101; Y02A 40/86 20180101; A01K
91/06 20130101; A01K 61/95 20170101; G01G 19/415 20130101; H04R
1/028 20130101; G01S 5/0027 20130101; G06K 7/10366 20130101; G01G
19/60 20130101; G01S 19/14 20130101; G01G 17/00 20130101; A01K
85/16 20130101; G08B 3/10 20130101; A01K 97/20 20130101; G01B 7/02
20130101; Y02A 40/80 20180101; A01K 93/02 20130101; G06K 7/10415
20130101; A01K 85/01 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A01K 85/01 20060101
A01K085/01; G06K 7/10 20060101 G06K007/10 |
Claims
1. A multiple mode fishing lure, comprising: a main body portion
having a waterproof inner capsule; said waterproof inner capsule
containing an electronic circuit to produce sounds which mimic bait
fish, said electronic circuit comprising: a controller having bait
fish sounds replaceably stored on reversibly programmable memory
therein and operationally coupled to: a speaker to broadcast said
bait fish sounds; a plurality of electrodes, wherein each of the
electrodes of said plurality of electrodes is actuated via an
actuation means, and wherein actuation of at least one electrode of
said plurality of electrodes gives an operational result; and a
power source for providing power to said electronic circuit; and at
least one hook coupled to said main body.
2. The multiple mode fishing lure of claim 1, wherein said
operational result is changing a power state of said multiple mode
fishing lure.
3. The multiple mode fishing lure of claim 2, wherein said
operational result is obtained by actuation of all of said
plurality of electrodes.
4. The multiple mode fishing lure of claim 3, wherein said
actuation means comprises a physical touch to said plurality of
electrodes.
5. The multiple mode fishing lure of claim 3, wherein said
actuation means comprises an aqueous solution between said
plurality of electrodes, thereby enabling electricity to flow
therebetween.
6. The multiple mode fishing lure of claim 1, wherein said
operational result is the changing of said bait fish sound
broadcast by said speaker.
7. The multiple mode fishing lure of claim 6, wherein said
operational result is obtained by actuation of a subset of said
plurality of electrodes.
8. The multiple mode fishing lure of claim 1, wherein at least one
of said plurality of electrodes is a hook hanger.
9. The multiple mode fishing lure of claim 1, wherein each of said
plurality of electrodes is a hook hanger.
10. The multiple mode fishing lure of claim 1, wherein said
controller turns off said multiple mode fishing lure after a
predetermined period of time has expired, unless there is
electrical conductivity on at least one of said plurality of
electrodes before said predetermined period of time occurs.
11. The multiple mode fishing lure of claim 1, wherein said
controller turns off said multiple mode fishing lure after a
predetermined period of time has expired, unless there is
communication with an external device before said predetermined
period of time occurs.
12. The multiple mode fishing lure of claim 1, further comprising
an aqueous ambient condition monitoring means for acquiring aqueous
ambient condition data, said aqueous ambient condition monitoring
means being communicably coupled to said controller, wherein said
controller is configured to transmit said aqueous ambient condition
data communicated from said aqueous ambient condition monitoring
means to an external device configured to read said aqueous ambient
condition data.
13. The multiple mode fishing lure of claim 1, further comprising a
radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag programmed with fishing
lure information, and wherein an external device is configured to
read said RFID tag to obtain said fishing lure information.
14. The multiple mode fishing lure of claim 1, wherein said
controller further includes fishing lure information, said multiple
mode fishing lure further comprising a Bluetooth transceiver
capable of communicating said fishing lure information with an
external device.
15. The multiple mode fishing lure of claim 14, further comprising
an aqueous ambient condition monitoring means for acquiring aqueous
ambient condition data and communicably coupled to said controller,
wherein said external device is further configured to read said
acquired aqueous ambient condition data.
16. The multiple mode fishing lure of claim 1, further comprising a
wireless transceiver for communicating information between said
multiple mode fishing lure and an external device, wherein said
external device updates said sounds replaceably stored on said
controller which said sounds are broadcast via said speaker.
17. The multiple mode fishing lure of claim 1, wherein said speaker
is a piezoelectric brass speaker.
18. A system, comprising: a multiple mode fishing lure, comprising:
a main body portion having a waterproof inner capsule; said
waterproof inner capsule containing an electronic circuit to
produce sounds which mimic bait fish, said electronic circuit
comprising: a controller having reversibly programmable memory with
bait fish sounds replaceably stored thereon and operationally
coupled to: a speaker to broadcast said bait fish sounds; a
plurality of electrodes, wherein each of the electrodes of said
plurality of electrodes is actuated via an actuation means, and
wherein actuation of at least one electrode of said plurality of
electrodes gives an operational result; and a power source for
providing power to said electronic circuit; and at least one hook
coupled to said main body; and an external device communicably
coupled to said controller of said multiple mode fishing lure and
configured to store said bait fish sounds on said reversibly
programmable memory and read fishing lure information therefrom.
Description
STATEMENT OF PRIORITY
[0001] The present application is a continuation of U.S.
Nonprovisional application Ser. No. 14/798,315, titled "Systems and
Methods for Monitoring and Communicating Fishing Data" and filed
Jul. 13, 2015, which is a continuation-in-part and claims priority
to U.S. Nonprovisional application Ser. No. 14/728,781, titled
"Multiple Mode Artificial Fishing lure" and filed on Jun. 2, 2015,
which is a continuation-in-part and claims priority to U.S.
Nonprovisional application Ser. No. 13/920,786, titled "Multiple
Mode Artificial Fishing Lure" and filed on Jun. 18, 2013, which
claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/660,898,
titled "Multiple Mode Artificial Fishing Lure," filed Jun. 18,
2012.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to an aquatic life
simulation apparatus capable of producing sounds to mimic aquatic
life and reading the environmental conditions of the water. More
specifically, the present disclosure relates to an aquatic life
simulation apparatus that closely replicates the natural behavior
and sounds of live bait species and other aquatic species, both
with regard to physical appearances and sound patterns, is capable
of reading the environmental condition of the water, and is
configured to communicate with surface electronic devices capable
of changing various characteristics of the apparatus based on the
changes in the environmental conditions of the water.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Early on, mankind relied on fishing as a means of survival.
However, over the years, fishing has evolved from solely a means of
survival to a sport. In addition to the reasons for fishing itself
having changed, so have the methods employed. While the first
fisherman may have relied on rudimentary spears, nets, or even
their bare hands to capture fish, today anglers heavily rely on
live bait or artificial lures.
[0004] There is a variety of live bait available for use, and even
a much wider array of surprisingly sophisticated fishing lures
available to bolster the success of any fisherman. These lures come
in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. This, in part, is a
result of the fact that each size, shape, and color scheme of a
particular lure strongly affects the success or failure of a
fisherman under particular conditions. For example, a lure having
reflective properties may be particularly useful for top water use
on a sunny day. That is, as the lure is reeled in it will shimmer
in the sun in a manner to attract surrounding fish.
[0005] An overwhelming majority of anglers agree in one very
important aspect--artificial lures are far superior in catching
fish and ease of use when compared to natural bait. It is estimated
that out of all the professional or semi-professional fish anglers,
ninety percent prefer the use of artificial lures over live bait.
Such is the result for several reasons. Artificial lures can be
easily switched out with one another to maximize productivity
according to changing conditions. Also, artificial lures are
generally cheaper than live bait. Moreover, live bait is not
allowed in all professional and non-professional fishing
tournaments. Finally, artificial lures are extremely durable--they
can be used over and over again, while live bait obviously has a
short operating life and is seasonal.
[0006] The development of better lures is further spurred on by the
ever-increasing popularity of fishing as a competitive sport. In
fact, there is constantly growing number of publications, media
websites, blogs and other types of informative news dedicated to
the sport of fishing. Moreover, it is not uncommon to come across
television programming dedicated solely to fishing. In light of the
growing popularity of the sport, and the endless combinations for
lure design, a tremendous amount of time and effort is devoted to
producing the very best lure. It is not uncommon for a company to
spend several thousands of dollars on the research and development
of a single artificial lure alone.
[0007] Despite the tremendous variety in available lures and their
technological advances in recent years, all currently available
lures are limited in view of the present disclosure. That is, while
a staggering amount of time and effort has been dedicated to
developing the most effective size, shape, and color combination
for particular lures, each of these lures lacks an important
dimension provided by the present apparatus.
[0008] The currently available technology is not configurable to
have an effective appearance and produce acoustical signals to
entice surrounding fish. Such acoustical signals alert fish to the
lure and help the fish determine lure location. Additionally,
current technology is not capable of being programmed to mimic
natural live bait species.
[0009] In view of the limitations associated with available lures,
including their inability to produce acoustical signals and
resulting limited ability to attract fish, a great need exists for
an artificial lure that offers the same benefits as available lures
and additionally attracts fish via acoustical signal patterns.
[0010] One advantage of such an artificial lure may be cost
reduction. Some fisherman may employ a "croaker" fish or "croaking"
bait. Currently, the only option a fisherman has when using Croaker
fish as bait is to purchase actual, live bait. Typically, these
types of bait are purchased by a standard size bucket-full at a
cost of approximately twenty dollars per bucket. With typical use,
a bucket-full of such bait lasts about a half day. As such, a full
day of fishing while using this type of bait costs approximately
forty dollars for bait alone. Thus, there remains a need for a lure
which simulates the croaker bait, but is reusable, thus reducing
bait cost.
[0011] Another problem with current bait and lures is the inability
to monitor aquatic life and report findings back to the angler.
Such information may assist the angler in determining whether
conditions are prime for fishing and/or what type of bait is best
suitable for the present conditions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a
multiple mode fishing lure that includes a main body portion having
a waterproof inner capsule, the waterproof inner capsule containing
an electronic circuit to produce sounds to mimic bait fish. The
electronic circuit includes a controller having bait fish sounds
replaceably stored thereon and operationally coupled to a speaker
to broadcast the bait fish sounds, a power source for providing
power to the electronic circuit, and a plurality of electrodes,
wherein each electrode may be actuated via an actuation means, and
wherein actuation of at least one of the plurality of electrodes
gives an operational result. The multiple mode fishing lure further
includes at least one hook coupled to the main body.
[0013] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a
multiple mode fishing lure, wherein the operational result is
changing a power state of the fishing lure.
[0014] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a
multiple mode fishing lure, wherein the operational result is
obtained by actuation of all of the plurality of electrodes.
[0015] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a
multiple mode fishing lure, wherein the actuation means comprises a
physical touch of the plurality of electrodes.
[0016] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a
multiple mode fishing lure, wherein the actuation means comprises
an aqueous solution between the plurality of electrodes, thereby
enabling electricity to flow therebetween.
[0017] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a
multiple mode fishing lure, wherein the operational result is
changing the bait fish sound broadcast by the speaker.
[0018] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a
multiple mode fishing lure, wherein the operational result is
obtained by actuation of a subset of the plurality of
electrodes.
[0019] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a
multiple mode fishing lure, wherein at least one of the plurality
of electrodes is a hook hanger.
[0020] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a
multiple mode fishing lure, wherein each of the plurality of
electrodes is a hook hanger.
[0021] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a
multiple mode fishing lure, wherein said controller turns off the
multiple mode fishing lure after a predetermined period of time has
expired, unless there is electrical conductivity on at least one of
the plurality of electrodes before the predetermined period of time
occurs.
[0022] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a
multiple mode fishing lure, wherein the controller turns off the
multiple mode fishing lure after a predetermined period of time has
expired, unless there is communication with an external device
before the predetermined period of time occurs.
[0023] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a
multiple mode fishing lure, further comprising an aqueous ambient
condition monitoring means for acquiring aqueous ambient condition
data and communicably coupled to the controller, wherein an
external device is configured to read the acquired aqueous ambient
condition data from the multiple mode fishing lure.
[0024] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a
multiple mode fishing lure, further comprising a radio-frequency
identification (RFID) tag programmed with fishing lure information,
and wherein an external device is configured to read the RFID tag
to obtain the fishing lure information.
[0025] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a
multiple mode fishing lure, wherein the controller further includes
fishing lure information, the multiple mode fishing lure further
including a Bluetooth transceiver capable of communicating said
fishing lure information with an external device.
[0026] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a
multiple mode fishing lure, further comprising a wireless
transceiver for communicating information between the multiple mode
fishing lure and an external device, wherein the external device
can update the sounds replaceably stored on the controller which is
broadcast via the speaker.
[0027] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a
multiple mode fishing lure, wherein the speaker is a piezoelectric
brass speaker.
[0028] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a
system that includes a multiple mode fishing lure which includes a
main body portion having a waterproof inner capsule, wherein the
waterproof inner capsule contains an electronic circuit to produce
sounds which mimic bait fish. The electronic circuit includes a
controller having reversibly programmable memory with bait fish
sounds replaceably stored thereon and operationally coupled to a
speaker to broadcast the bait fish sounds, a plurality of
electrodes, wherein each electrode of the plurality of electrodes
is actuated via an actuation means, and wherein actuation of at
least one electrode of the plurality of electrodes gives an
operational result; and a power source for providing power to the
electronic circuit; and at least one hook coupled to the main body.
The system further includes an external device communicably coupled
to the controller of the multiple mode fishing lure and configured
to store the bait fish sounds thereon and read fishing lure
information therefrom.
[0029] In view of the foregoing and other related objectives, the
present disclosure provides a highly innovative aquatic life
simulation apparatus. Most embodiments, generally, have a very
durable exterior body and are air brushed to the likeness of a
particular species. That is, the air brush finish adds detail to
the apparatus so that it can take on several appearances--any of
which can be selected according to conditions and desires.
[0030] A novel feature of the present disclosure is the fishing
lure's inner capsule and combination of components contained
therein. In most preferred forms, the inner capsule is waterproof
and contains a "sound chip," capable of producing acoustical
patterns very closely resembling those of any number of aquatic
species. The desired result may be to entice surrounding fish or
simply to replicate a particular species within its natural
environment. In the preferred form, this sound chip is
operationally coupled with a power source and a speaker.
Remarkably, this sound chip is embedded with acoustical information
associated with any number of specific aquatic species.
[0031] As mentioned, the sound chip may emit several distinct
acoustical patterns, and in one preferred form, the apparatus of
the present disclosure will be able to accurately reproduce the
sounds and movements associated with creatures eaten by game fish.
For example, a particularly effective embodiment of the present
disclosure is capable of performing the sound and pattern of
"croaking" associated with species commonly preyed upon by game
fish. By way of further example, the sound chip may repeat a
pattern where it emits acoustical signals for a period of time and
then remains dormant for a period of time. In some embodiments, the
emission and dormant periods of time may be the same. Such a
pattern may be preferred in that it allows for the "jerk and reel"
procedure commonly preferred by fisherman.
[0032] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure include other
novel features such as realistic appearing eyes and body members.
That is, these embodiments include LEDs throughout the apparatus
eye and along the body. Such characteristic is particularly useful
in replicating the effect of the sun reflecting from aquatic
life.
[0033] Other embodiments of the present disclosure allow the
apparatus to acquire data relating to environmental conditions of
fish habitats. The apparatus contains instrumentation that can
record pressure, temperature, turbidity, and pH levels among
others. The apparatus further contains algorithms to modify the
acoustical patterns emitted based on the recorded data. The color
and frequency of the light emitted from the LEDs is determined by
algorithms based on the data collected by the apparatus.
[0034] Another novel feature disclosed herein allows the apparatus
to communicate with electronic devices such as onboard computers,
depth finders, tablets, hand-held PDAs and smart phones. These
embodiments include wireless communication hardware, such as WiFi,
Bluetooth, or radio frequency antennas. A custom application is
loaded onto personal electronic devices that are programmed to
receive recorded data through similar wireless communication
hardware. The application also allows the user to send commands to
the apparatus to modify acoustical patterns and LED
performance.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0035] FIG. 1A is a side view of an aquatic life simulation
apparatus, according to one or more embodiments.
[0036] FIG. 1B is a view of the electronics arranged within the
inner capsule of the apparatus, according to one or more
embodiments.
[0037] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the aquatic life simulation
apparatus capable of data acquisition and wireless communication,
according to one or more embodiments.
[0038] FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of electronics arranged
within the inner capsule, according to one or more embodiments.
[0039] FIG. 3B displays the internal components, sensors, and
processors of the aquatic life simulation apparatus, according to
one or more embodiments.
[0040] FIG. 4 displays the functions of the custom application
device used in one embodiment of the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 5 displays the communication between the custom
application, device, and the lure, according to one or more
embodiments.
[0042] FIG. 6 displays the data interaction between the custom
application and the lure, according to one or more embodiments.
[0043] FIG. 7 displays the communication between the custom
application and the lure, according to one or more embodiments.
[0044] FIG. 8 displays other uses for the custom application and
device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 9 displays the data exchange between the custom
application and an alternative Sports Aquatic Marine Instruments
(SAMI) units, according to one or more embodiments.
[0046] FIG. 10 displays communications between the custom
application and multiple SAMI devices, including the lure,
according to one or more embodiments.
[0047] FIG. 11 displays the interaction between multiple SAMI
devices while the lure is in the water, according to one or more
embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0048] Referring to FIG. 1A, the aquatic life simulation apparatus
(the multiple mode fishing lure) of the present disclosure is
generally designated by numeral 40. Apparatus 40, in some
embodiments, is one of three primary colors: copper, bronze, or
chrome. In further embodiments, apparatus 40 may be finished with
some material to further enhance the reflective value of apparatus
40. While the preferred embodiment is thought to be most beneficial
when having a metallic-type finish as mentioned above, other useful
embodiments are envisioned where apparatus 40 may be of other color
scheme. For instance, a neon color combination scheme is thought to
be particularly useful for attracting fish under certain
conditions.
[0049] Apparatus 40 is characterized by inner capsule 1. In a
preferred embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 1B, inner capsule 1
houses and protects speaker 4, controller 10, battery 3, and motion
sensor 16. Inner capsule 1 holds speaker 4, controller 10, battery
3, and motion sensor 16 in a water-free (waterproof) environment,
and further acts as an impact absorbing means for these components.
As such, the components contained within capsule 1 are protected
from both water and incident forces by virtue of being contained
within capsule 1.
[0050] In a preferred embodiment, inner capsule 1 may be primarily
composed of rubber, plastic, fiberglass, or some combination
thereof. Other embodiments are particularly useful if speaker 4 is
not housed within capsule 1, but is adjacent to capsule 1 (not
shown) and remains in combination with the other referenced
components contained with capsule 1. In such embodiments, speaker 4
is a water-resistant or waterproof speaker appropriately sized to
fit within apparatus 40. Such speaker members are known, and will
be apparent to those skilled in the art.
[0051] As mentioned, operation of apparatus 40 involves the
components housed within capsule 1. In some embodiments, upon a
trigger event, such as impact with water or relative motion of
apparatus 40, controller 10 performs according to programming
stored on its memory. That is, embodiments are envisioned where
controller 10 is operationally coupled with motion sensor 16. In
such embodiments, motion sensor 16 reacts to changes in velocity of
apparatus 40. Upon sufficient reaction, motion sensor 16 signals
controller 10 to initiate performance. Controller 10 then acts
according to the reaction of motion sensor 16. This action may be
carried out for a determined time and then cease, or continue in
repeated fashion. Finally, one of the most novel aspects of the
present disclosure is the ability of controller 10 to accurately
and precisely replicate the acoustical patterns of a variety of
aquatic life. This replication is carried out according to stored
programming of controller 10.
[0052] As used herein, "memory" may be any type of storage or
memory known to those skilled in the art capable of storing data
and/or executable instructions. Memory may include volatile memory
(e.g., RAM), non-volatile memory (e.g., hard-drives), or a
combination thereof. Additionally, "reversibly programmable memory"
refers to any form of memory capable of storing data and/or
executable instructions received from a user-controlled device
(e.g., computer, smartphone, or tablet). Examples of such memory
include, without limitation, all variations of non-transitory
computer-readable hard disk drives, inclusive of solid-state
drives. Further examples of such may include RAM external to a
computer or controller or internal thereto (e.g., "on-board
memory"). Example embodiments of RAM may include, without
limitation, volatile or non-volatile memory, DDR memory, Flash
Memory, EPROM, ROM, or various other forms, or any combination
thereof generally known as memory or RAM. The RAM, hard drive,
and/or controller may work in combination to store and/or execute
instructions.
[0053] Controller 10 is further operationally coupled with, and
powered by, battery 3. In the preferred embodiment, battery 3 is a
relatively small, low voltage battery. Such is preferred as the
target weight of apparatus 40 is less than approximately one half
ounce.
[0054] Controller 10 is electronically coupled with speaker 4,
where speaker 4 emits acoustical patterns according to signals
received from controller 10. In the preferred embodiment, speaker 4
is of a "micro speaker" variety as known to those skilled in the
art, typically having a diameter of approximately less than one
inch. In one embodiment, speaker 4 is a piezoelectric brass speaker
as known to those skilled in the art.
[0055] Other useful embodiments are envisioned where some light
emitting means, such as a series of light emitting diodes (LED), is
further in combination with controller 10. In such embodiments, the
LEDs are activated upon signals received from controller 10. The
most beneficial arrangement of such light emitting means is
envisioned where LEDs are dispersed along the peripheral body of
apparatus 40 and/or placed as eye members. Such arrangement is
thought to be most beneficial in simulating real-life behavioral
characteristics. However, the LED can be position in practically
any part of the apparatus.
[0056] Referring now back to FIG. 1A, apparatus 40 may be further
characterized by support member 30. In the preferred embodiment,
support member 30 aligns with capsule 1 and is configured to ensure
apparatus 40 remains engaged with a fishing line. Support member 30
imparts rigidity and strength to apparatus 40 and may be configured
to directly receive and mate with a hook 32.
[0057] Support member 30 may also receive a hook connection means
34. Hook connection means 34 may be a fishing line of sufficient
strength to withstand the force exerted by an expected fish snared
by hook 32. In each of these embodiments, support member 30, in
combination with hook 32, or in combination with both hook 32 and
hook the connection means 34, provide a mechanism whereby a fish
may take apparatus 40 within its mouth and then become snagged by
hook 32. As the fish attempts to retreat, support member 30, hooks
32, and possibly hook connection means 34, hold the fish engaged
with apparatus 40 while apparatus 40 remains secured to a fishing
line. Finally, other useful embodiments are envisioned where
capsule 1 is further configured to replace support member 30. That
is, by ensuring capsule 1 is of sufficient strength, capsule 1 may
directly receive and mate with hook 32 or hook connection means
34.
[0058] Apparatus 40 further has an outer member 50. Outer member 50
surrounds and substantially covers capsule 1 and support 30. Outer
member 50, in some embodiments, is shaped in a way that can house
all components and generate the pitch while being as hydro
dynamically efficient as possible and/or generating the same
underwater hydro force as fish the same size as the apparatus
40.
[0059] Also, member 50 primarily provides apparatus 40 with its
actual, final physical appearance. As such, in its most preferred
form, member 50 is comprised mostly of plastic or rubber, or some
composite thereof and finished with metallic-type appearing finish.
Such a finish is particularly useful as it reflects sunlight to
further attract predator attention. As mentioned, particularly
useful embodiments are envisioned where outer member 50 contains
LED or some other light-emitting means (such as micro-bulbs or
fiber optics members) along its length and along eyes 44. Such
embodiments, through their light emitting quality, and in
combination with acoustical signals sent from apparatus 40, further
attract the attention of surrounding fish.
[0060] Visual Stimulation Emitting Diodes (VSED) are, in some
embodiments, placed inside eyes 44 of outer capsule 50. VSEDs have
a recurring pattern of fading-in fading-out bright red, white,
green or white and dark, and repeating with a predetermined time
pattern. This process simulates that natural occurrence found in
most species of fish called "flashing," a natural occurrence of
sunlight reflecting on the surface of fishes' eyes while traveling
in the water at high speeds.
[0061] In some embodiments, controller 10 will communicate via
wireless communication platforms with surface on-board computers,
tablets, hand-held PDAs and smart phones to relay environmental,
water and structural conditions of fish habitats. In these
embodiments, controller 10 can be a Submersible Micro Integrated
Circuit (SMIC) and maybe located either inside or outside the lure.
For example SMIC can be located anywhere on the fishing boat as
illustrated in FIG. 8. FIG. 2 represents a block diagram of such an
embodiment of the aquatic life simulation apparatus, according to
one or more embodiments. In this embodiment, apparatus 40 features
speaker 4, controller 10, motion sensor 16, battery 3, water
direction measurement system 17, antenna 7, at least one LED 2,
water detection sensor 8, temperature sensor 15, and a plurality of
electrodes 22. According to one embodiment of the present
disclosure, the antenna 7 is 2.4 GHz antenna, the motion sensor 16
is a 3-axis accelerometer, the water detection sensor 8 is a micro
fluidic sensor, and temperature sensor is a thermocouple or other
temperature measuring device that is known to those skilled in the
art.
[0062] Such sensors and monitoring devices may comprise an aqueous
ambient condition monitoring means which acquire aqueous ambient
condition data. It will be appreciated that not all sensors and
monitoring devices are discussed herein, but the present disclosure
contemplates incorporation of any other sensors and monitoring
devices capable of obtaining information associated with the water
when the aquatic life simulation apparatus is cast into the
water.
[0063] In some embodiments, the antenna 7 enables various devices
(e.g. a surface on-board computer, tablet, hand-held PDA and/or
smart phone) to obtain information acquired by any of the an
aqueous ambient condition monitoring means, thus enabling the
angler to analyze the current fishing conditions and amend their
bait or fishing position to optimize the likelihood of catching a
fish.
[0064] In further embodiments, the same or another antenna 7 may be
a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag which is programmed to
include fishing lure information which may be read by an external
device (e.g., device 400 of FIG. 4). In other embodiments, the
controller 10 may include the fishing lure information and the
antenna 7 may be a Bluetooth transceiver capable of transferring
such fishing lure information to the external device. Such
information may be, for example, and without limitation, the lure
type and/or lure color. Such is advantageous as the Angler may then
take any device capable of reading the antenna 7 (e.g., RFID tag
and/or Bluetooth transceiver) and obtain the information, thereby
enabling understanding of which lures work best in certain
situations and are attracting the most fish.
[0065] In further embodiments, the controller 10 can be triggered
or controlled via the electrodes 22. The electrodes 22 may be
actuated via an actuation means, wherein actuation of at least one
of the electrodes 22 gives an operational result to the apparatus
40. Exemplary actuation means may include, for example and without
limitation, pressure on the electrode, human contact (physical
touch) with the electrode 22, or aqueous solution (e.g., water)
between two or more (possibly all) of the electrodes 22, thereby
enabling electricity to flow therebetween.
[0066] Actuation of the electrodes 22 may result in operational
results such as, for example and without limitation, changing a
power state of the apparatus 40 (e.g., off to on, or on to off) or
changing the aquatic sound output by the speaker 4 (e.g., which
bait fish sound is output). In some embodiments, the operational
result may be performed via actuation of less than all (a subset)
of the electrodes 22. In other embodiments, actuation of all
electrodes 22 may be required for the operational result to occur.
In some embodiments, the hooks 32 (FIG. 1) and/or hook connection
34, and/or hook hangers (where the hook couples to the apparatus
40, not shown) may double to also operate as the electrodes 22.
[0067] The controller 10 can be triggered to perform in several
ways. In various embodiments, controller 10 can be triggered to
perform as programmed when motion sensor 16 signals controller 10
that a sufficient change in velocity has occurred. Controller 10
adjusts the sound emitted from speaker 4 which, in turn, adjusts
the vibration frequency 20 emitted from the speaker 4. Water
detection sensor 8 can trigger the controller 10 when the apparatus
enters the water. The user can also trigger controller 10 to
perform through the antenna 7. It is envisioned that this
embodiment will enable the user to control certain aspects of the
apparatus through a custom application running on a personal
electronic device. Thus, controller 10 can be triggered to perform
as programmed by the user running the custom application. Once
triggered, controller 10 can perform as programmed or until it
receives a signal from antenna 7.
[0068] In other embodiments, the controller may be programmed to
turn off the apparatus 40 after a predetermined period of time has
expired, unless there has been electrical conductivity on at least
one of the electrodes 22 before the predetermined period of time
occurs or expires.
[0069] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, once
controller 10 is triggered, it acquires and transmits certain
environmental conditions to the user via the antenna 7. Temperature
sensor 15 sends water temperature to controller 10, while water
direction system 17 acquires the velocity of the water. Based on
these readings, controller 10 can perform automatically based on
pre-programmed algorithms changing the characteristics of the
apparatus. The readings will also be transmitted to the personal
electronic device via antenna 7. In other embodiments, controller
10 acquires and logs other environmental conditions of the water,
including turbidity, pH levels, plankton content, oxygen
saturation, thermo dine readings and toxic levels within the
habitat and surrounding areas.
[0070] FIG. 3A illustrates a cross-sectional view of electronics
arranged within the inner capsule 1. According to one embodiment,
the inner capsule includes the battery 3, speaker 4, and controller
10. The inner capsule may also include an LED 2 coupled to the
controller 10. FIG. 3B displays a layout of the electronic circuit
in inner capsule 1 of an embodiment with wireless capability. In
this embodiment, wireless controller 10 communicates with the
custom application through multiple wireless systems. First,
controller 10 can send and receive data through standard WiFi 2.4
GHz antenna 7. According to one embodiment of the present
disclosure, the controller 10 is also capable of communicating on
lower frequency channels via 315 MHz antenna 13 and 900 MHz antenna
18. Near field communication (NFC) and Bluetooth low energy (BLE)
technologies are also wireless communications methods used by
controller 10 via NFC antenna 11 and BLE antenna 14, respectively.
The plurality of wireless systems used by controller 10 allow the
custom application to be loaded and used on many different wireless
platforms.
[0071] The user can modify the performance of the apparatus using a
custom application loaded on an electronic device. It is envisioned
that the electronic device will send signals generated according to
the user's input that can be received by any of the wireless
platforms included in capsule 1. The wireless platform relays these
signals to controller 10. Controller 10 adjusts the sound emitted
from speaker 4 which, in turn, adjusts the vibration frequency
emitted from the speaker 14, or the light emitted from LED 2, or
any combination thereof, based on the signals received from the
user.
[0072] In some embodiments, the electrodes 22 and associated
embodiments previously discussed in FIG. 2, may be in the form of
hook hangers 24. As depicted, the lure includes a front hook hanger
24a, a belly hook hanger 24b, and a tail hook hanger 24c. As the
hook hangers 24 may be metal in some embodiments, they are ideal
for having duplicate functionality of both acting as an electrode
(e.g., electrode 22), but also functioning as a place to couple
hooks for catching fish. Turning to FIG. 4, the onboard equipment
computers, tablets, handheld PDA's and smart phones, depicted as
external device 400, can send commands to apparatus 40 via a custom
application to change wave sound pitch, change frequency of VSED
fading in and out and change color of VSED among others. The
apparatus has the ability to be turned off or on via the
application on devices smart phones, PDA's, PC, notebooks, tablets
or on board computer. According to one embodiment of the present
disclosure, the sound can be changed to a different sound or pitch
and/or shut off completely, the LED can be changed to different
colors or patterns and/or shut off completely. Different sounds,
pitches, patterns in the emitted sound and LED lights patterns can
be wirelessly uploaded to apparatus through application. This can
also be done through micro, mini and full size USB jacks. In
further embodiments, the controller 10 (FIG. 2) may be programmed
to turn off the apparatus 40 after a predetermined period of time
has expired, unless there is communication with the external device
400 before the predetermined period of time occurs or expires.
[0073] Custom application 409 features many functions. There are
capacitive controls 401 that can be sent to the capsule. In the
embodiment displayed in FIG. 4, custom application 409 controls the
sound, LED color, LED effect, and vibration type of inner capsule
1. When the user desires to change the sound emitted from inner
capsule 1, he can do so using sound emission control 403. LED
control 404 allows the user to activate the LED and control the
amount of light emitted. Type of illumination control 405 and type
of fish sound control 406 are used to alter the type of
illumination and the type of fish sound is emitted from inner
capsule 1, respectively.
[0074] Controller 10 also, in some embodiments, has data
acquisition capability. Custom application 409 displays the data
stored by controller 10 in a user-friendly interface. The interface
helps the user determine control settings. Water property readings
407 are displayed in graph form so the user can see changes in
certain water properties over time. Environmental data readings 408
tell the user the conditions outside the water. Fish catching log
410 and time of catch 402 are also displayed.
[0075] On a typical day out on the lake, the user begins by
programming controller 10 via custom application 409 before inner
capsule 1 is cast as shown in FIG. 5. Inner capsule 1 collects data
while it is submerged. Once inner capsule 1 is pulled from the
water, the data collected is transferred to custom application 409.
Based on the data collected during the cast, the user can make
changes to the settings before the next cast through custom
application 409. Custom application 409 logs the data from inner
capsule 1 in real time once inner capsule 1 is out of the water as
shown in FIG. 7. Data is exchanged between inner capsule 1 and
custom application 409 each time inner capsule 1 exits the
water.
[0076] The current disclosure can be used alongside other Sports
Aquatic Marine Instruments (S.A.M.I.) as shown in FIG. 8.
Underwater unit 801 is attached to the boat such that it is
submerged the entire time the boat is in the water. Underwater unit
801 takes water property readings continuously including turbidity,
pH level, and water clarity. Underwater unit 801 is connected via
cable to on board control unit 804 which enables constant relay of
the data from underwater unit 801 to on board control unit 804. On
board control unit 804 is also in constant communication with
custom application 409 as shown in FIG. 9. The readings taken by
underwater unit 801 are combined with environmental data readings
408 (FIG. 4) to determine if the fishing conditions are good in
that location. Both on board control unit 804 and underwater unit
801 are powered by on board power source 803, typically the
battery.
[0077] Once inner capsule 1 is brought on board, custom application
409 will then send to and receive data from inner capsule 1, while
still being in communication with on board control unit 804, as
shown in FIG. 10.
[0078] In certain applications, inner capsule 1 communicates with
underwater unit 801 while submerged, as shown in FIG. 11.
Underwater unit 801 relays the data collected from inner capsule 1,
along with the data collected by underwater unit 801, to on board
control unit 804. The user can then receive real time data from,
and send real time commands to, inner capsule 1 as well as the
board control unit 804.
[0079] In some of these embodiments, similar to discussed above, a
tail chamber of apparatus 40 holds an RF "radio frequency" tag,
WiFi component and/or blue tooth transmitter to communicate with
top side on board computer, tablets, PDA and smart phones through
custom application 409 suited for this particular function of
programming, executing and reading certain environmental conditions
of habitats of aquatic life and the reaction of species in salt and
freshwater conditions. In such configurations, iOS, PC, Tablet,
Notebook, Smartphone, PDA with RF tag or WiFi components, or blue
tooth transmitter in NFC system integration (Near Field
Communication) permit communications with the underwater device and
on board controls.
[0080] In other embodiments, a headphone jack adapter is the
functioning device that affects the control of the underwater
observation device and give commands that executes color changing
in the exterior capsule 50 and VSED's. Pitch control and variance
also comes from commands from the adapter. An adapter is used in
conjunction with iOS, tablet, notebook, PC, smart phone, PDA
application and include different modes to control underwater
device for specific tasks while underwater. Finger control on
custom application 409 and push button tabs are the complete route
of the way commands are executed. Different sounds, pitches,
patterns and LED lights, patterns can be wirelessly uploaded to
apparatus through application. This can also be done through micro,
mini and full size USB jacks.
[0081] In still other embodiments, controller 10 in inner capsule 1
houses a proximity sensor embedded within controller 10 that senses
when to add decibels to the pitch and when to lower the decibel.
The proximity chip also controls the VSED feature of controlling
color and intensity of VSED color choice at the time of
observation. Detection of proximity of species in habitat
environment determines the amount of electrical current powering
controller 10, WiFi, NFC, and blue tooth chips through the
automatic proximity sensor embedded within inner capsule 1.
[0082] In still other embodiments, a micro video chip sensitive
transmitter is embedded inside inner capsule 1 or the on board
controller 804, and is capable of sending images to on-board
equipment tablets, PC's, notebooks, iOS devices, PDA, smart phones,
or navionic equipment that are running custom application 409.
[0083] Although the disclosure has been described with reference to
specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed
in a limited sense. Various modifications of the disclosed
embodiments, as well as alternative embodiments will become
apparent to persons skilled in the art upon the reference to the
description of the disclosure. It is, therefore, contemplated that
the appended claims will cover such modifications that fall within
the scope of the disclosure.
* * * * *