U.S. patent application number 17/075330 was filed with the patent office on 2022-04-21 for trolling motor releasable bracket system and associated methods.
This patent application is currently assigned to Power Pux, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Power Pux, LLC. Invention is credited to Paul E. Payne.
Application Number | 20220119087 17/075330 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006253127 |
Filed Date | 2022-04-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220119087 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Payne; Paul E. |
April 21, 2022 |
TROLLING MOTOR RELEASABLE BRACKET SYSTEM AND ASSOCIATED METHODS
Abstract
The trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system is for
trolling motors (e.g., GPS guided trolling motors), includes its
own power plug within the assembly, and is configured to mount a
trolling motor to a vessel deck. The system includes a motor
bracket and a vessel bracket. The motor bracket includes a
receiving section to slidably receive the vessel bracket therein.
The motor bracket further includes a motor power cord section
including a motor power cord channel configured to route a motor
power cord and secure an associated motor power connector therein.
The vessel bracket includes a vessel power cord section including a
vessel power cord channel configured to route a vessel power cord
and secure an associated vessel power connector therein. And, the
motor power cord channel and the vessel power cord channel are
configured to align the respective motor power connector and the
vessel power connector, for automatic connection, upon the vessel
bracket being slidably received in the receiving section of the
motor bracket.
Inventors: |
Payne; Paul E.; (Cocoa,
FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Power Pux, LLC |
Wilmington |
DE |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Power Pux, LLC
Wilmington
DE
|
Family ID: |
1000006253127 |
Appl. No.: |
17/075330 |
Filed: |
October 20, 2020 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B63B 3/48 20130101; B63H
20/007 20130101; B63H 20/06 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B63H 20/00 20060101
B63H020/00; B63B 3/48 20060101 B63B003/48; B63H 20/06 20060101
B63H020/06 |
Claims
1. A trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system configured
to mount a trolling motor to a vessel deck, the system comprising:
a motor bracket configured to be mounted to a base of the trolling
motor; and a vessel bracket configured to be mounted to the vessel
deck; wherein the motor bracket includes a receiving section,
extending inwardly from a first end thereof, and configured to
slidably receive the vessel bracket therein; wherein the motor
bracket further includes a motor power cord section, extending
inwardly from a second end and to the receiving section, and
including a motor power cord channel configured to route a motor
power cord and secure an associated motor power connector therein;
wherein the vessel bracket includes a vessel power cord section,
extending inwardly from a first end thereof, and including a vessel
power cord channel configured to route a vessel power cord and
secure an associated vessel power connector therein; and wherein
the motor power cord channel and the vessel power cord channel are
configured to align the respective motor power connector and the
vessel power connector, for automatic connection, upon the vessel
bracket being slidably received in the receiving section of the
motor bracket.
2. The trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system according
to claim 1, wherein the motor bracket includes a first passageway
adjacent the receiving section, and the vessel bracket includes a
second passageway configured to align with the first passageway and
receive a locking pin therethrough.
3. The trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system according
to claim 2, wherein the motor bracket further comprises a locking
pin tab that protrudes from a side thereof adjacent the first
passageway; and further comprising a locking pin configured to rest
on the locking pin tab and extend through the first and second
passageways to lock the motor bracket to the vessel bracket and
lock the trolling motor to the vessel deck.
4. The trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system according
to claim 1, wherein the motor bracket includes at least one pattern
of base fastener holes configured to receive fasteners to secure
the motor bracket to the base of the trolling motor.
5. The trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system according
to claim 1, wherein the vessel bracket includes at least one
pattern of deck fastener holes configured to receive fasteners to
secure the vessel bracket to the vessel deck.
6. The trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system according
to claim 1, wherein the motor power cord section of the motor
bracket includes a motor power cord section cover that covers the
motor power cord channel to secure the motor power connector within
the motor power cord channel.
7. The trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system according
to claim 1, wherein the vessel power cord section of the vessel
bracket includes a vessel power cord section cover that covers the
vessel power cord channel to secure the vessel power connector
within the vessel power cord channel.
8. The trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system according
to claim 7, wherein the vessel power cord section cover includes an
outlet configured to route the vessel power cord externally of the
vessel bracket and into the vessel deck.
9. The trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system according
to claim 1, wherein the motor bracket and vessel bracket include
respective guide rails configured to provide the slidable
installation of the motor bracket onto the vessel bracket.
10. A trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system configured
to mount a trolling motor to a vessel deck, the system comprising:
a motor bracket configured to be mounted to a base of the trolling
motor; a vessel bracket configured to be mounted to the vessel
deck; a motor power cord and an associated motor power connector; a
vessel power cord and an associated vessel power connector; and a
locking pin; wherein the motor bracket includes a receiving
section, extending inwardly from a first end thereof, and
configured to slidably receive the vessel bracket therein; wherein
the motor bracket and vessel bracket include respective guide rails
configured to provide the slidable installation of the motor
bracket onto the vessel bracket; wherein the motor bracket further
includes a motor power cord section, extending inwardly from a
second end and to the receiving section, and including a motor
power cord channel configured to route the motor power cord and
secure an associated motor power connector therein; wherein the
vessel bracket includes a vessel power cord section, extending
inwardly from a first end thereof, and including a vessel power
cord channel configured to route the vessel power cord and secure
an associated vessel power connector therein; wherein the motor
power cord channel and the vessel power cord channel are configured
to align the respective motor power connector and the vessel power
connector, for automatic connection, upon the vessel bracket being
slidably received in the receiving section of the motor bracket;
and wherein the motor bracket includes a first passageway adjacent
the receiving section, and the vessel bracket includes a second
passageway configured to align with the first passageway and
receive the locking pin therethrough to lock the motor bracket to
the vessel bracket and lock the trolling motor to the vessel
deck.
11. The trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system according
to claim 10, wherein the motor bracket further comprises a locking
pin tab that protrudes from a side thereof adjacent the first
passageway to support a proximal end of the locking pin.
12. The trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system according
to claim 10, wherein the motor bracket includes at least one
pattern of base fastener holes configured to receive fasteners to
secure the motor bracket to the base of the trolling motor.
13. The trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system according
to claim 10, wherein the vessel bracket includes at least one
pattern of deck fastener holes configured to receive fasteners to
secure the vessel bracket to the vessel deck.
14. The trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system according
to claim 10, wherein the motor power cord section of the motor
bracket includes a motor power cord section cover that covers the
motor power cord channel to secure the motor power connector within
the motor power cord channel.
15. The trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system according
to claim 10, wherein the vessel power cord section of the vessel
bracket includes a vessel power cord section cover that covers the
vessel power cord channel to secure the vessel power connector
within the vessel power cord channel.
16. The trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system according
to claim 15, wherein the vessel power cord section cover includes
an outlet configured to route the vessel power cord externally of
the vessel bracket and into the vessel deck.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of boating, and
more particularly to systems, devices and methods for releasably
mounting a trolling motor to a vessel deck.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] A trolling motor is a self-contained unit that includes an
electric motor, propeller and controls, and is affixed to an
angler's boat, either at the bow or stern. Trolling motors are
often lifted from the water to reduce drag when the boat's primary
engine is in operation. The trolling motor provides auxiliary power
for precision maneuvering of the boat, to enable the angler to cast
bait to where the fish are located. Trolling motors designed for
this application are typically mounted in the bow.
[0003] An 1895 article in Scientific American entitled "A Portable
Electric Propeller for Boats" stated: "Briefly described, it
consists of a movable tube which is hinged at the stern of the
boat, much as an oar is used in sculling. The tube contains a
flexible shaft formed of three coils of phosphor bronze. This tube
extends down and out into the water, where it carries a propeller,
and at the inboard end an electric Motor is attached, which is
itself driven by batteries."
[0004] The electric trolling motor was invented by O. G. Schmidt in
1934 in Fargo, N. Dak., when he took a starter motor from a Ford
Model A, added a flexible shaft, and a propeller. Because his
manufacturing company was near the Minnesota/North Dakota border,
he decided to call the new company Minn Kota. The company still is
a major manufacturer of trolling motors.
[0005] Modern electric trolling motors are designed around a
12-volt, 24-volt or 36-volt brushed DC electric motor, to take
advantage of the availability of 12-volt deep cycle batteries
designed specifically for marine use. The motor itself is sealed
inside a watertight compartment at the end of the shaft. It is
submerged during operation, which prevents overheating. The
propeller is fitted directly on to the prop shaft.
[0006] Hand controlled trolling motors are attached to the boat
with a clamp. On/off and speed controls may also be foot-operated
and built into a pedal that also controls the steering mechanism.
Steering may be via electronically controlled servo motors, or in
early-model (and late-model low-end units), a push-pull cable. Foot
controlled trolling motors require a specialized mounting bracket
that bolts horizontally to the deck. An advantage of foot controls
is that fisherman has both hands free for fishing and landing the
hooked fish. On the other hand, it is sometimes hard to coordinate
foot work with hands, especially in wavy and windy conditions.
Wireless remote control may be available on high-end late-model
trolling motors. Servo-controlled steering and speed control both
respond to a wireless device (e.g. including geolocation data, such
as Global Positioning Satellite GPS), either in a foot pedal or a
key-fob transmitter.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 10,155,579 to Marcio is directed to an
electric propulsion system for small boats and kayaks. Each
trolling motor is connected to a motor mount stub that clicks into
a main system mount that straddles the gunnels of a boat. In
Marcio, FIG. 3 is a Wiring Integration within the Main System
Mount, and FIG. 4 Shows how the main power wires of the motor are
connected to the lugs on each motor stub. FIG. 5 shows how the boat
operator "mechanically" connects a trolling motor to each motor
mount stub. It is described therein that the motor wiring simply
attaches to lug studs on the motor mount stubs and that the two
power cords of each motor are bundled so as not to flop around and
connect to lug bolts (see FIG. 4) under the Motor Mount Stub. There
are no self-contained electrical connectors in the system.
[0008] Also, U.S. Pat. No. 6,431,923 to Knight et al. (Johnson
Outdoors Inc.) is directed to a Trolling Motor Bow Mount that
includes a base, a chassis, and an actuation mechanism. FIG. 2 is a
side elevational view illustrating the trolling motor system of
FIG. 1 being dismounted from the boat via a bow mount system. FIG.
3 is a sectional view of the bow mount system of FIG. 2 taken along
lines 3-3. FIG. 4 is a sectional view of the bow mount system of
FIG. 3 illustrating a chassis lowered onto a base of the bow mount
system. Although the mount of Knight et al. includes interleaving
dovetails on the base and chassis for mounting the motor to a
vessel, there is no description of self-contained electrical
connectors within the base and chassis.
[0009] Additionally, U.S. Pat. No. 10,689,081 to Shields is
directed to a mount and control system for an electric outboard. As
described in this reference, in some embodiments, the wire harness
connects to the motor and terminates at a quick electrical
disconnect which couples to an electrical extension at a location .
. . that is in the dry storage and approximately underneath the
hatch. It is further described that the location allows for easy
access to the disconnect and provides for simple and quick
attachment and detachment of the wire harness when installing or
removing parts of the mount and control system.
[0010] However, even though the reference discusses a "quick
electrical disconnect", such disconnect is not integrated with the
mounting or fastening components.
[0011] What is needed is a trolling motor quick release bracket
system that includes its own power plug within the assembly to more
easily mount and dismount the trolling motor onto/from the
vessel.
[0012] This background information is provided to reveal
information believed by the applicant to be of possible relevance
to the present invention. No admission is necessarily intended, nor
should be construed, that any of the preceding information
constitutes prior art against the present invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] With the above in mind, embodiments of the present invention
are related to a trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system
that includes its own power plug within the assembly to more easily
mount and dismount the trolling motor onto/from the vessel and
reduce associated wires on the boat deck.
[0014] The embodiments of the invention are directed to a trolling
motor releasable mounting bracket system for trolling motors (e.g.,
GPS guided trolling motors) that includes its own power plug within
the assembly. It may be designed as an Original Equipment
Manufacturer (OEM) system for new boats and/or as an aftermarket
system to retrofit with most pre-drilled mounting patterns for
those who wish to convert from a previous quick release
product.
[0015] This and other objects, advantages and features in
accordance with the present embodiments may be provided by a
trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system configured to
mount a trolling motor to a vessel deck. The system includes a
motor bracket configured to be mounted to a base of the trolling
motor, and a vessel bracket configured to be mounted to the vessel
deck. The motor bracket includes a receiving section, extending
inwardly from a first end thereof, and configured to slidably
receive the vessel bracket therein. The motor bracket further
includes a motor power cord section, extending inwardly from a
second end and to the receiving section, and including a motor
power cord channel configured to route a motor power cord and
secure an associated motor power connector therein. The vessel
bracket includes a vessel power cord section, extending inwardly
from a first end thereof, and including a vessel power cord channel
configured to route a vessel power cord and secure an associated
vessel power connector therein. And, the motor power cord channel
and the vessel power cord channel are configured to align the
respective motor power connector and the vessel power connector,
for automatic connection, upon the vessel bracket being slidably
received in the receiving section of the motor bracket.
[0016] Additionally, and/or alternatively, the motor bracket
includes a first passageway adjacent the receiving section, and the
vessel bracket includes a second passageway configured to align
with the first passageway and receive a locking pin
therethrough.
[0017] Additionally, and/or alternatively, the motor bracket
further includes a locking pin tab that protrudes from a side
thereof adjacent the first passageway, and a locking pin is
configured to rest on the locking pin tab and extend through the
first and second passageways to lock the motor bracket to the
vessel bracket and lock the trolling motor to the vessel deck.
[0018] Additionally, and/or alternatively, the motor bracket
includes at least one pattern of base fastener holes configured to
receive fasteners to secure the motor bracket to the base of the
trolling motor, and the vessel bracket includes at least one
pattern of deck fastener holes configured to receive fasteners to
secure the vessel bracket to the deck of the vessel.
[0019] Additionally, and/or alternatively, the motor power cord
section of the motor bracket includes a motor power cord section
cover that covers the motor power cord channel to secure the motor
power connector within the motor power cord channel.
[0020] Additionally, and/or alternatively, the vessel power cord
section of the vessel bracket includes a vessel power cord section
cover that covers the vessel power cord channel to secure the
vessel power connector within the vessel power cord channel.
[0021] Additionally, and/or alternatively, the vessel power cord
section cover includes an outlet configured to route the vessel
power cord externally of the vessel bracket and into the deck of
the vessel.
[0022] Additionally, and/or alternatively, the motor bracket and
vessel bracket include respective guide rails configured to provide
the slidable installation of the motor bracket onto the vessel
bracket.
[0023] Other objects, advantages and features in accordance with
the present embodiments may be provided by a trolling motor
releasable mounting bracket system configured to mount a trolling
motor to a vessel deck. The system includes a motor bracket
configured to be mounted to a base of the trolling motor, and a
vessel bracket configured to be mounted to the vessel deck. A motor
power cord has an associated motor power connector, and a vessel
power cord has an associated vessel power connector. The motor
bracket includes a receiving section, extending inwardly from a
first end thereof, and configured to slidably receive the vessel
bracket therein. The motor bracket and vessel bracket include
respective guide rails configured to provide the slidable
installation of the motor bracket onto the vessel bracket. The
motor bracket further includes a motor power cord section,
extending inwardly from a second end and to the receiving section,
and including a motor power cord channel configured to route the
motor power cord and secure an associated motor power connector
therein. The vessel bracket includes a vessel power cord section,
extending inwardly from a first end thereof, and including a vessel
power cord channel configured to route the vessel power cord and
secure an associated vessel power connector therein. The motor
power cord channel and the vessel power cord channel are configured
to align the respective motor power connector and the vessel power
connector, for automatic connection, upon the vessel bracket being
slidably received in the receiving section of the motor bracket.
The motor bracket includes a first passageway adjacent the
receiving section, and the vessel bracket includes a second
passageway configured to align with the first passageway and
receive a locking pin therethrough to lock the motor bracket to the
vessel bracket and lock the trolling motor to the vessel deck.
[0024] Additionally, and/or alternatively, the motor bracket
further comprises a locking pin tab that protrudes from a side
thereof adjacent the first passageway to support a proximal end of
the locking pin.
[0025] Additionally, and/or alternatively, the motor bracket
includes at least one pattern of base fastener holes configured to
receive fasteners to secure the motor bracket to the base of the
trolling motor, and the vessel bracket includes at least one
pattern of deck fastener holes configured to receive fasteners to
secure the vessel bracket to the deck of the vessel.
[0026] Additionally, and/or alternatively, the motor power cord
section of the motor bracket includes a motor power cord section
cover that covers the motor power cord channel to secure the motor
power connector within the motor power cord channel.
[0027] Additionally, and/or alternatively, the vessel power cord
section of the vessel bracket includes a vessel power cord section
cover that covers the vessel power cord channel to secure the
vessel power connector within the vessel power cord channel.
[0028] Additionally, and/or alternatively, the vessel power cord
section cover includes an outlet configured to route the vessel
power cord externally of the vessel bracket and into the deck of
the vessel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] Some embodiments of the present invention are illustrated as
an example and are not limited by the figures of the accompanying
drawings, in which like references may indicate similar
elements.
[0030] FIG. 1 is a bottom view of a trolling motor releasable
mounting bracket system with the vessel bracket received within the
motor bracket according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0031] FIG. 2 is a side view of the trolling motor releasable
mounting bracket system of FIG. 1.
[0032] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a trolling motor base
secured to the motor bracket of the trolling motor releasable
mounting bracket system of FIG. 1.
[0033] FIG. 4 is a perspective bottom view of the vessel bracket of
the trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system of FIG.
1.
[0034] FIG. 5 is a perspective bottom view of the trolling motor
releasable mounting bracket system secured to a trolling motor.
[0035] FIG. 6 is a perspective side view of the trolling motor base
secured to the motor bracket and ready for installation onto the
vessel bracket mounted to the deck of the vessel.
[0036] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the trolling motor base
secured to the motor bracket and installed onto the vessel bracket
mounted to the deck of the vessel.
[0037] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the trolling motor assembly
secured to the motor bracket, installed onto the vessel bracket
mounted to the deck of the vessel, and positioned for trolling
operation.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0038] The present invention will now be described more fully
hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which
preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention
may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be
construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather,
these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be
thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the
invention to those skilled in the art. Those of ordinary skill in
the art realize that the following descriptions of the embodiments
of the present invention are illustrative and are not intended to
be limiting in any way. Other embodiments of the present invention
will readily suggest themselves to such skilled persons having the
benefit of this disclosure. Like numbers refer to like elements
throughout.
[0039] Before describing the present disclosure in detail, it is to
be understood that this disclosure is not limited to parameters of
the particularly exemplified systems, methods, apparatus, products,
processes, and/or kits, which may, of course, vary. It is also to
be understood that the terminology used herein is only for the
purpose of describing particular embodiments of the present
disclosure, and is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of
the disclosure in any particular manner. Thus, while the present
disclosure will be described in detail with reference to specific
embodiments, features, aspects, configurations, etc., the
descriptions are illustrative and are not to be construed as
limiting the scope of the claimed invention. Various modifications
can be made to the illustrated embodiments, features, aspects,
configurations, etc. without departing from the spirit and scope of
the invention as defined by the claims. Thus, while various aspects
and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and
embodiments are contemplated.
[0040] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.
While a number of methods and materials similar or equivalent to
those described herein can be used in the practice of the present
disclosure, only certain exemplary materials and methods are
described herein.
[0041] Various aspects of the present disclosure, including
devices, systems, methods, etc., may be illustrated with reference
to one or more exemplary embodiments or implementations. As used
herein, the terms "embodiment," "alternative embodiment" and/or
"exemplary implementation" means "serving as an example, instance,
or illustration," and should not necessarily be construed as
preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or implementations
disclosed herein. In addition, reference to an "implementation" of
the present disclosure or invention includes a specific reference
to one or more embodiments thereof, and vice versa, and is intended
to provide illustrative examples without limiting the scope of the
invention, which is indicated by the appended claims rather than by
the following description.
[0042] It will be noted that, as used in this specification and the
appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an" and "the" include
plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.
Thus, for example, reference to a "sensor" includes one, two, or
more sensors.
[0043] As used throughout this application the words "can" and
"may" are used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the
potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning
must). Additionally, the terms "including," "having," "involving,"
"containing," "characterized by," variants thereof (e.g.,
"includes," "has," and "involves," "contains," etc.), and similar
terms as used herein, including the claims, shall be inclusive
and/or open-ended, shall have the same meaning as the word
"comprising" and variants thereof (e.g., "comprise" and
"comprises"), and do not exclude additional, un-recited elements or
method steps, illustratively.
[0044] Various aspects of the present disclosure can be illustrated
by describing components that are coupled, attached, connected,
and/or joined together. As used herein, the terms "coupled",
"attached", "connected," and/or "joined" are used to indicate
either a direct connection between two components or, where
appropriate, an indirect connection to one another through
intervening or intermediate components. In contrast, when a
component is referred to as being "directly coupled", "directly
attached", "directly connected," and/or "directly joined" to
another component, no intervening elements are present or
contemplated. Thus, as used herein, the terms "connection,"
"connected," and the like do not necessarily imply direct contact
between the two or more elements. In addition, components that are
coupled, attached, connected, and/or joined together are not
necessarily (reversibly or permanently) secured to one another. For
instance, coupling, attaching, connecting, and/or joining can
comprise placing, positioning, and/or disposing the components
together or otherwise adjacent in some implementations.
[0045] As used herein, directional and/or arbitrary terms, such as
"top," "bottom," "front," "back," "left," "right," "up," "down,"
"upper," "lower," "inner," "outer," "internal," "external,"
"interior," "exterior," "proximal," "distal" and the like can be
used solely to indicate relative directions and/or orientations and
may not otherwise be intended to limit the scope of the disclosure,
including the specification, invention, and/or claims.
[0046] Where possible, like numbering of elements have been used in
various figures. In addition, similar elements and/or elements
having similar functions may be designated by similar numbering
(e.g., element "10" and element "210.") Furthermore, alternative
configurations of a particular element may each include separate
letters appended to the element number. Accordingly, an appended
letter can be used to designate an alternative design, structure,
function, implementation, and/or embodiment of an element or
feature without an appended letter. Similarly, multiple instances
of an element and or sub-elements of a parent element may each
include separate letters appended to the element number. In each
case, the element label may be used without an appended letter to
generally refer to instances of the element or any one of the
alternative elements. Element labels including an appended letter
can be used to refer to a specific instance of the element or to
distinguish or draw attention to multiple uses of the element.
However, element labels including an appended letter are not meant
to be limited to the specific and/or particular embodiment(s) in
which they are illustrated. In other words, reference to a specific
feature in relation to one embodiment should not be construed as
being limited to applications only within said embodiment.
[0047] It will also be appreciated that where a range of values
(e.g., less than, greater than, at least, and/or up to a certain
value, and/or between two recited values) is disclosed or recited,
any specific value or range of values falling within the disclosed
range of values is likewise disclosed and contemplated herein.
[0048] It is also noted that systems, methods, apparatus, devices,
products, processes, compositions, and/or kits, etc., according to
certain embodiments of the present invention may include,
incorporate, or otherwise comprise properties, features, aspects,
steps, components, members, and/or elements described in other
embodiments disclosed and/or described herein. Thus, reference to a
specific feature, aspect, steps, component, member, element, etc.
in relation to one embodiment should not be construed as being
limited to applications only within said embodiment. In addition,
reference to a specific benefit, advantage, problem, solution,
method of use, etc. in relation to one embodiment should not be
construed as being limited to applications only within said
embodiment.
[0049] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes
only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the
description or the claims. To facilitate understanding, like
reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate
like elements common to the figures.
[0050] An embodiment of the invention, as shown and described by
the various figures and accompanying text, provides a system that
includes brackets configured to slidably engage for mounting the
motor to the vessel while also internally electrically coupling
(e.g., with self-contained electrical connectors) the motor to a
vessel power supply connector within the vessel bracket or puck.
The motor bracket includes a feature to route and secure the power
cord of the motor within the bracket and positioned for connection
to the corresponding electrical connector at one end of the puck
when the motor is slidably mounted to the puck and vessel. A
storage puck may be provided for mounting the motor (e.g. in the
garage) when not in use.
[0051] Some of the illustrative aspects of the present invention
may be advantageous in solving the problems herein described and
other problems not discussed which are discoverable by a skilled
artisan.
[0052] An embodiment of the present invention is directed to a
trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system and is described
below with reference to FIGS. 1-8. FIG. 1 is a bottom view of a
trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system 10 with a vessel
bracket 12 received within a motor bracket 14. FIG. 2 is a side
view of the trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system 10.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a trolling motor base 20, of a
typical trolling motor 22, and secured to the motor bracket 14 of
the trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system 10. FIG. 4 is
a perspective bottom view of the vessel bracket 12. FIG. 5 is a
perspective bottom view of the trolling motor releasable mounting
bracket system 10, including the motor bracket 14 being secured to
the trolling motor 22, and the vessel bracket 12 being received by
the motor bracket 14. FIG. 6 is a perspective side view of the
trolling motor base 20 secured to the motor bracket 14 and ready
for installation onto the vessel bracket 12 mounted to the deck 30
of a vessel 32. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the trolling motor
base 20 secured to the motor bracket 14 and installed onto the
vessel bracket 12 mounted to the deck 30 of the vessel 32. FIG. 8
is a perspective view of the trolling motor assembly 24 secured to
the motor bracket 14, via the motor base 20, and installed onto the
vessel bracket 12 mounted to the deck 30 of the vessel 32 and
positioned upright for trolling operation.
[0053] Thus, the trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system
10 is configured to mount the trolling motor 22 to the vessel deck
30. Herein, the vessel deck 30 refers to any surface (e.g. top
deck, deck cap, floor, etc.) that can mount the vessel bracket 12
above the hull. The system 10 includes the motor bracket 14
configured to be mounted to the base 20 of the trolling motor 22,
and the vessel bracket 12 configured to be mounted to the vessel
deck 30. The motor bracket 14 includes a receiving section 40,
extending inwardly from a first end 15 thereof, and configured to
slidably receive the vessel bracket 12 therein. The motor bracket
14 and vessel bracket 12 include respective guide rails 74, 75
configured to provide the slidable installation of the motor
bracket 14 onto the vessel bracket 12.
[0054] The motor bracket 14 further includes a motor power cord
section 42, extending inwardly from a second end 16 and to the
receiving section 40, and including a motor power cord channel 44
configured to route a motor power cord 45 and secure an associated
motor power connector 46 therein. The vessel bracket 12 includes a
vessel power cord section 52, extending inwardly from a first end
thereof 17, and including a vessel power cord channel 54 configured
to route a vessel power cord 55 and secure an associated vessel
power connector 56 therein. And, the motor power cord channel 44
and the vessel power cord channel 54 are configured to align the
respective motor power connector 56 and the vessel power connector
46, for automatic connection, upon the vessel bracket 12 being
slidably received in the receiving section 40 of the motor bracket
14.
[0055] The motor bracket 14 includes a first passageway 64 adjacent
the receiving section 40, and the vessel bracket 12 includes a
second passageway 65 configured to align with the first passageway
64 and receive a locking pin 62 therethrough. The motor bracket 14
may further include a locking pin tab 60 that protrudes from a side
thereof adjacent the first passageway 64. The locking pin 62 is
configured to rest on the locking pin tab 60 and extend through the
first and second passageways 64, 65 to lock the motor bracket 14 to
the vessel bracket 12. This feature also locks the trolling motor
22 to the vessel deck 30. A lock may be used to secure the locking
pin 62 to the locking pin tab 60 and provide security for the
trolling motor 22 on the vessel 32 while being stored or
transported. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the
locking pin 62 extends through the brackets 12, 14; however, in
other embodiments, the locking pin 62 may include a U-shaped design
that does not extend out of the opposite side of the motor bracket
14. Other arrangements are also contemplated as long as the
brackets 12, 14 are locked together by the locking pin 62.
[0056] The motor bracket 14 may include one or more patterns of
base fastener holes 70 configured to receive fasteners to secure
the motor bracket 14 to the base 20 of the trolling motor 22.
Likewise, the vessel bracket may include at least one pattern of
deck fastener holes 72 configured to receive fasteners to secure
the vessel bracket 14 to the deck 30 of the vessel 32.
[0057] The motor power cord section 42 of the motor bracket 14
includes a motor power cord section cover 49 that covers the motor
power cord channel 44 to secure the motor power connector 46 within
the motor power cord channel 44. The motor power cord section cover
49 can be fastened to the motor bracket 14, with stainless steel
screws, for example. The vessel power cord section 52 of the vessel
bracket 12 includes a vessel power cord section cover 59 that
covers the vessel power cord channel 54 to secure the vessel power
connector 56 within the vessel power cord channel 54. The vessel
power cord section cover 59 can be fastened to the vessel bracket
12, with stainless steel screws, for example. The vessel power cord
section cover 59 includes an outlet 58 configured to route the
vessel power cord 55 externally of the vessel bracket 12 and into
the deck 30 of the vessel 32.
[0058] The trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system 10,
aka "Power Pux", is a quick release bracket with its own
self-contained power connectors or plugs 46, 56 designed to provide
electrical power to a 12-volt, 24-volt, or 36-volt trolling motor
22 at the moment the trolling motor is installed on the vessel 32.
The self-contained power connectors 46, 56 preferably are 60-amp
rated electrical connectors which together serve to transfer the
vessel battery power to the trolling motor 22 once the motor
bracket 14 and vessel bracket 12 are connected together.
[0059] The existing 8-gauge wires supplied from the trolling motor
22 are to be connected to the motor power cord 45 (e.g. two
supplied 8-gauge wires) exiting from the motor bracket 14. The
vessel power cord 55 (e.g. two supplied 8-gauge wires) will pass
through the top deck of the deck 30 of the vessel 32 and then
connect with the vessel's battery wires. A 60-amp surge protector
breaker may be recommended between the vessel power cord 55 and the
vessel battery or power supply. The vessel bracket should
preferably be sealed with marine caulking/sealant around the outlet
58 and mounting holes 72 on the top deck surface of the deck 30 to
prevent water leakage below the deck.
[0060] Once the brackets 12, 14 are properly affixed and secured to
the top deck and to the trolling motor 22 and the battery power
leads have been connected, the trolling motor assembly with the
motor bracket 14 can be slid forward on the vessels top deck and
slid onto the vessel bracket 12 aligning the guide rails 74, 75 and
pushed forward until the power connectors 46 and 56 latch together.
The locking pin 62 is slid into the passageways 64, 65 and may be
secured with an optional lock (e.g. a padlock) for theft
protection.
[0061] When the 60-amp surge protection breaker is turned on, the
trolling motor releasable mounting bracket system 10 will supply
the trolling motor 22 with power for safe operation (e.g. including
GPS guidance) without the need for external power cords and plugs
to trip on or entangle a user's fishing line.
[0062] The brackets 12, 14 may be made of a thermoplastic polymer,
for example, 11/2'' inch quality marine-grade High Density Poly
Ethylene (HDPE) that is cut and milled to desired specifications.
Size in length, width and height, as well as materials, can be
selected for different makes and models of vessels, trolling motors
or other requested applications as needed. Colors can vary
according to availability from the thermoplastic suppliers.
[0063] The present invention has been described above with the aid
of method steps illustrating the performance of specified functions
and relationships thereof. The boundaries and sequence of these
functional building blocks and method steps have been arbitrarily
defined herein for convenience of description. Alternate boundaries
and sequences can be defined so long as the specified functions and
relationships are appropriately performed. Any such alternate
boundaries or sequences are thus within the scope and spirit of the
claimed invention. Further, the boundaries of these functional
building blocks have been arbitrarily defined for convenience of
description. Alternate boundaries could be defined as long as the
certain significant functions are appropriately performed.
Similarly, flow diagram blocks may also have been arbitrarily
defined herein to illustrate certain significant functionality. To
the extent used, the flow diagram block boundaries and sequence
could have been defined otherwise and still perform the certain
significant functionality. Such alternate definitions of both
functional building blocks and flow diagram blocks and sequences
are thus within the scope and spirit of the claimed invention. One
of average skill in the art will also recognize that the functional
building blocks, and other illustrative blocks, modules and
components herein, can be implemented as illustrated or by discrete
components, application specific integrated circuits, processors
executing appropriate software and the like or any combination
thereof.
[0064] The present invention may have also been described, at least
in part, in terms of one or more embodiments. An embodiment of the
present invention is used herein to illustrate the present
invention, an aspect thereof, a feature thereof, a concept thereof,
and/or an example thereof. A physical embodiment of an apparatus,
an article of manufacture, a machine, and/or of a process that
embodies the present invention may include one or more of the
aspects, features, concepts, examples, etc. described with
reference to one or more of the embodiments discussed herein.
Further, from figure to figure, the embodiments may incorporate the
same or similarly named functions, steps, modules, etc. that may
use the same or different reference numbers and, as such, the
functions, steps, modules, etc. may be the same or similar
functions, steps, modules, etc. or different ones.
[0065] The above description provides specific details, such as
material types and processing conditions to provide a thorough
description of example embodiments. However, a person of ordinary
skill in the art would understand that the embodiments may be
practiced without using these specific details.
[0066] Some of the illustrative aspects of the present invention
may be advantageous in solving the problems herein described and
other problems not discussed which are discoverable by a skilled
artisan. While the above description contains much specificity,
these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any
embodiment, but as exemplifications of the presented embodiments
thereof. Many other ramifications and variations are possible
within the teachings of the various embodiments. While the
invention has been described with reference to exemplary
embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that
various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for
elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention.
In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular
situation or material to the teachings of the invention without
departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is
intended that the invention not be limited to the particular
embodiment disclosed as the best or only mode contemplated for
carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include
all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended
claims.
[0067] Also, in the drawings and the description, there have been
disclosed exemplary embodiments of the invention and, although
specific terms may have been employed, they are unless otherwise
stated used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for
purposes of limitation, the scope of the invention therefore not
being so limited. Moreover, the use of the terms first, second,
etc. do not denote any order or importance, but rather the terms
first, second, etc. are used to distinguish one element from
another. Furthermore, the use of the terms a, an, etc. do not
denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of
at least one of the referenced items. Thus, the scope of the
invention should be determined by the appended claims and their
legal equivalents, and not by the examples given.
* * * * *