Patent Publication Number: US-2005138857-A1

Title: Transmitting control device for a navigable fishing apparatus and a fishing pole and transmitter assembly

Description:
RELATED PATENT DATA  
      This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/525,589, which was filed on Nov. 26, 2003, and which is incorporated by reference herein and made a part hereof. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD  
      The present invention pertains to a remote-controlled and self-propelled navigable fishing apparatus. More particularly, the present invention relates to transmitting control devices for use with remote-controlled and self-propelled fishing bobbers and fishing lures used in conjunction with fishing poles.  
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
      Numerous attempts have been made to realize navigable fishing apparatus, such as remote-controlled and self-propelled bobbers and fishing lures.  
      In one case, remote-controlled, miniature fishing boats have been utilized to deliver a lure to a desired location within a body of water. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,203,131; 5,293,712; 6,041,537; 6,263,611; and 6,520,105, herein incorporated by reference, are directed to such remote-controlled, unmanned fishing vessels. These various inventions are directed to devices that enable an angler to remotely position a lure or bait within a body of water. However, these miniaturized unmanned fishing devices are not capable of being affixed onto an existing fishing line and cast by an angler into a body of water. Secondly, improvements are needed in the manner in which input signals are delivered to such devices for remotely navigating the devices within a body of water.  
      Secondly, various devices are directed towards remotely controlling a fishing bobber within a navigable body of water. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,638,585 and 5,086,581, herein incorporated by reference, are directed to fishing bobbers that contain a propulsion unit and a remotely-controlled system for navigating the bobber within a body of water. Although these devices enable an angler to navigate the positioning of a bobber within a body of water, improvements are needed in the manner in which input signals are delivered to such devices when navigating the devices within a body of water.  
      Thirdly, self-propelled fishing devices in the form of fishing lures are also known in the art. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,077,929 and 6,760,995, herein incorporated by reference, disclose self-propelled and navigable fishing lures that can be remotely controlled and navigated within a body of water, including at various depths and plan view locations within the water. However, improvements are needed in the manner in which input signals are delivered to such devices when navigating the devices within a body of water.  
      Finally, various devices are known for remotely transmitting control signals to a remote-controlled and self-propelled fishing apparatus. By way of example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,463,597; 6,584,722; and 6,758,006, herein incorporated by reference, show various fishing poles that include a control module that has transmitting circuitry that is attached onto an exterior portion of a fishing pole. However, these electronic modules tend to be rather bulky and obtrusive, and inhibit an angler&#39;s casting technique. Accordingly, improvements are needed, particularly when incorporating transmitting control circuitry into a relatively compact fishing pole where existing control modules already tend to be rather bulky and obtrusive.  
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
      A fishing apparatus, such as a fishing bobber or a fishing lure, is provided in combination with a transmitter control device that is incorporated inside a handle component of a fishing pole to enable remote control of the apparatus, which is also self-propelled and navigable. According to one construction, the remote-controlled and self-propelled apparatus comprises a fishing bobber. According to another construction, the remote-controlled and self-propelled apparatus comprises a fishing lure. According to one construction, the transmitting control device comprises remote control transmitting circuitry that is installed within a handle of a fishing pole. The fishing apparatus is provided with a propulsion mechanism and steering mechanisms in conjunction with the control circuitry to enable navigation of the fishing apparatus along desired paths and in desired locations across or within a body of water.  
      According to one aspect, a transmitting control device is provided for a navigable fishing apparatus. The control device includes a fishing pole, a transmitter, and at least one input device. The fishing pole has a handle component. The transmitter is provided in the handle component. The at least one input device is supported by the handle and is electrically coupled with the transmitting control device to generate input signals from the transmitting control device for controlling a remotely-controlled and navigable fishing apparatus.  
      A fishing pole, a fishing bobber, and a fishing lure are provided with remote controls installed in the handle of the pole (or in a separate control unit) and receivers along with a propulsion mechanism and steering mechanisms are installed in the bobber or lure. This allows any angler to control various axes of movement of the bobber or lure from the handle of the angler&#39;s pole or via a separate control unit. This also allows the angler to place the bobber or lure in the position he chooses without repetitive casting efforts, or if he wants, he can also choose not to cast. Instead, he can physically start the bobber or lure at his side and control it to the location he wants.  
      According to one aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to the servo and electric motor. The servo then supplies the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving linkages attached to a rudder placed at the stern of the bobber or lure. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a propeller that resides at the stern and outside the body of the bobber or the lure. The power is provided by rechargeable batteries such as NiCads, Li-Poly or NiMH or non-rechargeable batteries such as alkaline batteries. The angler supplies input to the user controls on the handle and the signal is transmitted from the transmitter in the handle to the receiver in the bobber or lure.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to actuators and an electric motor. The actuators then supply the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving the rudder placed at the stern of the bobber or lure. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a propeller that resides at the stern and outside the body of the bobber or the lure.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signs from the transmitter and in turn supplies an electrical charge to current controlled wire that in turn changes length as a charge is applied or removed causing the rudder to move to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a propeller that resides at the stern and outside the body of the bobber or the lure.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies a signal to an electrical motor or several motors that turn a series of gears and move a rudder to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a propeller that resides at the stern and outside the body of the bobber or the lure.  
      According to still another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to the servo and electric motors. The serve then supplies the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving an articulating fin/body of the bobber or lure. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a propeller that resides at the stern and outside the body of the bobber or the lure.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to actuators and an electric motor. The actuators then supply the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving an articulating fin/body. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a propeller that resides at the stern and outside the body of the bobber or the lure.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies an electrical charge to current controlled wire that in turn changes length as a charge is applied or removed causing the articulating fin/body to move to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a propeller that resides at the stern and outside the body of the bobber or the lure.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies a signal to an electrical motor or several motors that turn a series of gears and move an articulating fin/body to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a propeller that resides at the stern and outside the body of the bobber or the lure.  
      According to still another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to the servo and electric motors. The servo motor then supplies the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving and articulating jet drive. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a jet drive that resides at the stern and outside the body of the bobber or the lure.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared transmitter and functional user control. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to actuators and an electric motor. The actuators then supply the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving an articulating jet drive. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a jet drive that resides at the stern and outside the body of the bobber or the lure.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies an electrical charge to current-controlled wire that in turn changes length as a charge is applied or removed causing the articulating jet drive to move to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a jet drive that resides at the stern and outside the body of the bobber or the lure.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies a signal to an electrical motor or several motors that turn a series of gears and move an articulating jet drive to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a jet drive that resides at the stem and outside the body of the bobber or lure.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to the servo and electric motors. The servo motor then supplies the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving linkages attached to a rudder placed at the stern of the bobber or lure. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning an impeller.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to actuators and an electric motor. The actuators then supply the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving the rudder placed at the stern of the bobber or lure. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning an impeller.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies an electrical charge to current-controlled wire that in turn changes length as a charge is applied or removed causing the rudder to move to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning an impeller.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies a signal to an electrical motor or several motors that turns a series of gears and moves a rudder to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning an impeller.  
      According to still another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to the servo and electric motors. The servo then supplies the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving an articulating fin/body of the bobber or lure. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning an impeller.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to actuators and an electric motor. The actuators then supply the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving an articulating fin/body. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning an impeller.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies an electrical charge to current-controlled wire that in turn changes length as a charge is applied or removed causing the articulating fin/body to move to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning an impeller.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies a signal to an electrical motor or several motors that turns a series of gears and moves an articulating fin/body to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning an impeller.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to the servo and electric motors. The servo motor then supplies the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving linkages attached to a rudder placed at the stern of the bobber or lure. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a paddle wheel.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to actuators and an electric motor. The actuators then supply the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving the rudder placed at the stern of the bobber or lure. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a paddle wheel.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies an electrical charge to current-controlled wire that in turn changes length as a charge is applied or removed causing the rudder to move to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a paddle wheel.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies a signal to an electrical motor or several motors that turns a series of gears and moves a rudder to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a paddle wheel.  
      According to still another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to the servo and electric motors. The servo motor then supplies the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving an articulating fin/body of the bobber or lure. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a paddle wheel.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to actuators and an electric motor. The actuators then supply the function If steering the bobber or lure by moving an articulating fin/body. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a paddle wheel.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies an electrical charge to current-controlled wire that in turn changes length as a charge is applied or removed causing the articulating fin/body to move to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a paddle wheel.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies a signal to an electrical motor or several motors that turns a series of gears and moves an articulating fin/body to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lure either forward or backward by turning a paddle wheel.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to the servo and electric motors. The servo motor then supplies the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving linkages attached to a rudder placed at the stern of the bobber or lure. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lures either forward or backward by moving a flipper or articulating tail.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to actuators and an electric motor. The actuators then supply the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving the rudder placed at the stern of the bobber or lure. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lures either forward or backward by moving a flipper or articulating tail.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies an electrical charge to current-controlled wire that in turn changes length as a charge is applied or removed causing the rudder to move to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lures either forward or backward by moving a flipper or articulating tail.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies a signal to an electrical motor or several motors that turns a series of gears and moves a rudder to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lures either forward or backward by moving a flipper or articulating tail.  
      According to still another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to the servo and electric motors. The servo motor then supplies the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving an articulating fin/body of the bobber or lure. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lures either forward or backward by moving a flipper or articulating tail.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies the signal to actuators and an electric motor. The actuators then supply the function of steering the bobber or lure by moving an articulating fin/body. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lures either forward or backward by moving a flipper or articulating tail.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies an electrical charge to current-controlled wire that in turn changes length s a charge is applied or removed causing the articulating fin/body to move to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lures either forward or backward by moving a flipper or articulating tail.  
      According to another aspect, a fishing pole is provided with a radio frequency (RF) radio or infrared (IR) transmitter and functional user controls. The bobber or lure is provided with a radio receiver that receives signals from the transmitter and in turn supplies a signal to an electrical motor or several motors that turns a series of gears and moves and articulating fin/body to one side or the other. The electric motor supplies the function of moving the bobber or lures either forward or backward by moving a flipper or articulating tail.  
      According to another aspect, any one of the aspects stated above can be used in combination with any of the following types of user controls for transmitting signals to the bobber or lure: (1) Programmable controller chips; (2) infrared (IR); (3) radio frequency (RF); (4) programmable firmware; (5) blue tooth technology; (6) global positioning (GPS); (7) programmable software; (8) a separate hand-held unit that resides outside of the handle such as a transmitter from JR, Sony, Futaba or Hitech using any of the technologies stated in the aspects; (9) free flight control; (10) random configured control.  
      According to another aspect, any one of the aspects stated above can be used in combination with any of the following types of user controllers: (1) Joysticks; (2) force sensitive resisters (FSR); (3) finger touch pads; (4) push buttons/switches; (5) finger balls; (6) various potentiometers; (7) capacitive switching.  
      According to another aspect, any one of the aspects stated above can be used in combination with any of the following types of mechanisms for propulsion: (1) Gas motors; (2) solar motors; (3) rubber band motors; (4) steam motors; (5) wind-up motors; (6) CO2 cartridges; (7) air motors; (8) wind; (9) water or air currents; (10) electric motors.  
      According to another aspect, any one of the aspects stated above can be used in combination with any of the following types of power: (1) Alkaline batteries supplied from various vendors such as Duracell or Energizer; (2) nickel cadmium (NiCad) batteries supplied from vendors such as Sanyo or Panasonic; (3) lithium (LiPoly) batteries supplied from vendors like Kokam; (4) nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries supplied from vendors such as Sanyo or Panasonic; (5) solar; (6) water; (7) capacitors.  
      According to another aspect, any one of the aspects stated above can be used] in combination with any of the following types of drive mechanisms: (1) Direct drive; (2) shaft drive; (3) flex shaft drive; (4) coupling drive; (5) universal joint drive; (6) gear drive.  
      According to another aspect, any one of the aspects stated above can be used in combination with any of the following propulsion methods: (1) Float/water current; (2) propeller; (3) impeller; (4) jet drive—water; (5) jet drive—air; (6) flipper; (7) articulating fin/body; (8) paddle wheel; (9) wind.  
      According to another aspect, any one of the aspects stated above can be used in combination with any of the following locations for the propulsion methods: (1) The bow; (2) the stern; (3) the port; (4) the starboard; (5) the top; (6) the keel; (7) somewhere in between any of the above points.  
      According to another aspect, any one of the aspects stated above can be used in combination with any of the following steering mechanisms: (1) Rudder/elevator; (2) articulating fin/body; (3) articulating jet drive; (4) articulating motor drive; (5) multiple pulsating motors; (6) air blasts; (7) water brakes; (8) air brakes; (9) electro-magnets; (10) capacitance switching.  
      According to another aspect, any one of the aspects stated above can be used in combination with any of the following handles: (1) Various casting handle; (2) various spinning handle; (3) various articulating spinning handle; (4) various fly rod handle.  
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
      Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the following accompanying drawings.  
       FIG. 1  illustrates one fishing environment where an angler is retrieving a fish that has been caught using a remotely-controlled fishing lure and transmitting control device according to one aspect of the present invention.  
       FIG. 2  illustrates a second fishing environment where an angler is seated in a row boat and is retrieving a fish that has been caught using a remotely-controlled bobber and transmitting control device according to another aspect of the present invention.  
       FIG. 3  illustrates a third fishing environment where a handicapped angler is using a remotely-controlled lure and transmitting control device to direct movement of the lure to desired locations according to another aspect of the present invention.  
       FIG. 4  is an enlarged simplified perspective view of the remotely-controlled lure depicted in  FIG. 1 .  
       FIG. 5  is an enlarged simplified perspective view illustrating the remotely-controlled bobber of  FIG. 2 .  
       FIG. 6  is a perspective view of the remotely-controlled lure of  FIG. 3 .  
       FIG. 7  is a vertical centerline sectional view taken through the remotely-controlled lure of  FIG. 6 .  
       FIG. 8  illustrates a simplified functional block diagram for transmitting circuitry within a transmitting control device such as the devices depicted in  FIGS. 10 and 11 .  
       FIG. 9  illustrates a functional block diagram for a receiver-controlled device such as the receiver depicted in the remotely-controlled lure of  FIG. 7 .  
       FIG. 10  illustrates a fishing pole with a handle component that includes an integrated, or built-in transmitter control device with a joy stick input device and a push button on/off switch.  
       FIG. 11  is a sectional view of the handle component of  FIG. 10  taken along line  11 - 11  of  FIG. 10 .  
       FIG. 12  is a simplified perspective view of an alternative transmitting control device utilizing the control circuitry of  FIG. 8  according to another aspect of the invention.  
       FIG. 13  is a simplified perspective view of a second alternative transmitting control device over that depicted in  FIGS. 10 and 12 .  
       FIG. 14  is a simplified perspective view of a first type of input device used on the transmitting control device of  FIGS. 10, 12  and  13 .  
       FIG. 15  is a simplified perspective view of an alternative input device for use on a transmitting control device over that depicted in  FIG. 14 .  
       FIG. 16  is a simplified perspective view of a second alternative input device for use on a transmitting control device over that depicted in  FIG. 14 .  
       FIG. 17  is a simplified perspective view of a third alternative input device for use on a transmitting control device over that depicted in  FIG. 14 .  
       FIG. 18  is a simplified perspective view of a fourth alternative input device for use on a transmitting control device over that depicted in  FIG. 14 .  
       FIG. 19  is a simplified perspective view of a fourth alternatively constructed remote-controlled and self-propelled lure.  
       FIG. 20  is a simplified perspective view of a fifth alternatively constructed remote-controlled and self-propelled lure.  
       FIG. 21  is a simplified perspective view of a sixth alternatively constructed remote-controlled and self-propelled lure.  
       FIG. 22  is a simplified perspective view of a seventh alternatively constructed remote-controlled and self-propelled lure.  
       FIG. 23  is a simplified perspective view of a eighth alternatively constructed remote-controlled and self-propelled lure.  
       FIG. 24  is a simplified perspective view of a ninth alternatively constructed remote-controlled and self-propelled lure.  
       FIG. 25  is a simplified perspective view of a tenth alternatively constructed remote-controlled and self-propelled lure.  
       FIG. 26  is a simplified perspective view of an eleventh alternatively constructed remote-controlled and self-propelled lure.  
       FIG. 27  is a simplified breakaway perspective view illustrating one rudder assembly utilized with the remote-controlled, self-propelled lure of  FIGS. 5-7 , and  19 .  
       FIG. 28  is a simplified side view depicting one construction for a unitary drive module for use in a self-propelled lure or bobber.  
       FIG. 29  is a simplified side view depicting a first alternative construction for a unitary drive module for use in a self-propelled lure or bobber.  
       FIG. 30  is a simplified side view depicting a second alternative construction for a unitary drive module for use in a self-propelled lure or bobber.  
       FIG. 31  is a simplified side view depicting a third alternative construction for a unitary drive module for use in a self-propelled lure or bobber.  
       FIG. 32  is a simplified side view depicting a fourth alternative construction for a unitary drive module for use in a self-propelled lure or bobber.  
       FIG. 33  is a simplified side view illustrating a first propeller configuration for a self-propelled fishing apparatus, such as a self-propelled bobber or self-propelled lure.  
       FIG. 34  is a first alternative propeller configuration over that depicted in  FIG. 33 .  
       FIG. 35  is a second alternative propeller configuration over that depicted in  FIG. 33 .  
       FIG. 36  is a third alternative propeller configuration over that depicted in  FIG. 33 .  
       FIG. 37  is a fourth alternative propeller configuration over that depicted in  FIG. 33 .  
       FIG. 38  is a simplified, partial and perspective view for an electric motor as utilized in the lure of  FIG. 7 .  
       FIG. 39  is a simplified, partial and perspective view illustrating an alternative wind-up motor for driving a self-propelled fishing apparatus, such as a self-propelled bobber or self-propelled lure.  
       FIG. 40  is a simplified, partial and perspective view illustrating a second alternative wind-up motor for driving a self-propelled fishing apparatus, such as a self-propelled bobber or self-propelled lure.  
       FIG. 41  is a simplified plan view illustrating movement of a remotely-controlled lure as it is being towed behind a trolling fishing boat.  
       FIG. 42  is a simplified plan view showing remote-controlled positioning of a self-propelled bobber which has been positioned using a remote control and self-propelled motor without actually casting the bobber between a first position and a second position in order to place the fishing line into a desirable location on a body of water.  
       FIG. 43  is a simplified plan view showing repositioning of the bobber after the bobber has been cast to place the bobber and fishing line into desired locations on a body of water.  
       FIG. 44  is a simplified vertical view illustrating an angler in a fishing boat using a remote-controlled and self-propelled fishing lure that is capable of being maneuvered and repositioned at various locations and depths within the body of water.  
       FIG. 45  shows a typical side view of a remote-controlled and self-propelled bobber attached to a fishing pole.  
       FIG. 46  shows a typical side view of a remote-controlled and self-propelled lure attached to a fishing pole. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
      This disclosure of the invention is submitted in furtherance of the constitutional purposes of the U.S. Patent Laws “to promote the progress of science and useful arts” (Article 1, Section 8).  
      Reference will now be made to preferred embodiments of Applicants&#39; invention directed to transmitting control devices that are incorporated within a fishing pole for remote-controlling a navigable fishing apparatus such as a self-propelled fishing lure or bobber. While the invention is described by way of preferred embodiments, it is understood that the description is not intended to limit the invention to such embodiments, but is intended to cover alternatives, equivalents, and modifications which may be broader than the embodiments, but which are included within the scope of the appended claims.  
      In an effort to prevent obscuring the invention at hand, only details germane to implementing the invention will be described in great detail, with presently understood peripheral details being incorporated by reference, as needed, as being presently understood in the art.  
      There are a variety of techniques by which anglers can fish. One type of fishing is performed as shown in  FIG. 1  in which an angler  100  stands along the bank of a river or other body of water (or even stands in the water) and casts a lure  400  from a fishing pole  102 , then retrieves the lure and/or a fish. The lure  400  is attached to the pole by a fishing line  104  using an eyelet  490  (shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5 ). Optionally, a bobber  1400  (see  FIG. 2 ) can be used. A reel  106  is attached to the fishing pole  102 , and used to reel in line on which the bobber  1400  or lure  400  is affixed. In an alternative fishing technique shown in  FIG. 2 , the angler  100  is positioned in a rowboat  108 . The boat  108  is preferably anchored or drifting through the water. In another alternative fishing technique shown in  FIG. 3 , the angler  100  is handicapped and is sitting in a wheelchair  110  on a dock  109 . In this case, a self-propelled underwater lure  2400  is attached to line  104 .  
       FIGS. 4-6  show the lure  400 , bobber  1400 , and lure  240 , respectively, in their functional positions in the water. From this position the angler  100  can activate a remote system or transmitting control device  52  located in the handle  111  (of  FIGS. 10 and 11 ) by pushing forward on a joystick  132  (also see  FIG. 12 ). An input signal is sent to a receiver  142  (of  FIG. 9 ) which relays the signal and with the battery  146  starts the motor  148  that turns the propeller  1124  allowing the lure  400  (or bobber) to move forward. Respectively, if angler  100  pulls the joystick  132  backward, the motor  148  then reverses the direction of the propeller  1124  and the lure  400  moves backwards. If angler  100  wants to turn the lure  400  left or right, he can do so by moving the joystick  132  in any direction he wants, left or right, while concurrently moving the joystick  132  either forward or backward. The transmitter  134  sends out the signal to receiver  142  (of  FIG. 9 ) and with the battery  146  starts the motor  148  and turns the propeller  1124  and concurrently a signal is sent to a servo motor  144  that rotates a servo arm  150  in the direction input by the user, which in turn turns a rudder  1126  (of  FIG. 7 ) left or right. Anti-torque fins  416  (of  FIG. 6 ) can also be provided as required to prevent the unwanted counter-rotation of lure  400  due to the rotating propeller  1124 .  
      Lure  400  is navigated into any position chosen by angler  100  by engaging the propeller and turning the rudder to selected positions. The lure  400  can be cast into the water or it can be placed into the water next to the angler  100 . Subsequently, an angler  100  can control the lure  400  from either starting point. The angler  100  can manipulate the lure  400  into various directions to navigate around obstacles and position lure  400  into areas that are hard to reach by casting a line. Alternatively, an angler  100  can continually work a lure  400  along a path mimicking a swimming fish as shown in  FIGS. 41-44 . The ability to maneuver lure  400  minimizes casts and allows the angler  100  to access multiple hard-to-reach locations as well as allowing the lure  400  to be in the water for a longer given time. This allows for a greater potential in catching fish. Alternatively, a bobber  1400  can be navigated into a desired position using the same techniques.  
       FIG. 4  illustrates one construction for a navigable fishing apparatus comprising a remote-controlled and self-propelled fishing lure  400 . Lure  400  includes receiving circuitry contained therein, such as receiving circuitry  140  as depicted in  FIG. 9 . However, lure  400  includes an optional oscillating fin  118  that is used to propel lure  400  in a forward direction. Additionally, a positionable dive plane  120  is provided at a forward end of lure  400  for adjusting depth of lure  400  as lure  400  is propelled forward via oscillation of fin  118 . A pair of treble hooks  114  is also provided on body  122  of lure  400  to enable engagement of a fish onto line  104 . An eyelet  490  is provided on dive plane  120  for tying lure  400  onto an end of fishing line  104  using any of a number of presently known fishing knots.  
       FIG. 5  illustrates an alternatively constructed navigable fishing apparatus comprising a remotely-controlled and self-propelled fishing bobber  1400 . Bobber  1400  was previously depicted in  FIG. 2  and includes receiving circuitry  140  as illustrated in  FIG. 9 . A pair of leader lines  105  and  107  are each affixed beneath bobber  1400  for attaching snell hooks  116 , respectively. Hooks  116  typically receive live bait, such as a worm. Self-propelled bobber  1400  includes a pivotally positionable rudder  126  and a propeller  124 . Preferably, propeller  124  is driven via a flex shaft. Optionally, propeller  124  is driven via a shaft drive that has a universal drive joint between two rigid cylindrical shafts. Bobber  1400  is driven forward via rotation of propeller  124  and is positioned in a horizontal plane by varying the positioning of rudder  126  while driving propeller  124 . Rotatably positioning of rudder  126  to desired positions while driving propeller  124  enables the movement of bobber  1400  in a forward direction. Receiving circuitry within bobber  1400  receives input commands from a user via a transmitting control device that is integrated within the handle of a fishing pole (see  FIGS. 10 and 11 ). Receiving circuitry within bobber  1400  receives commands for activating and driving propeller  124  as well as rotatably positioning rudder  126  to locations that are desired by a user and which are dictated by input signals received via a user of a transmitting control device.  
       FIG. 6  illustrates a second alternative construction for a navigable fishing apparatus comprising another construction for a remotely-controlled and self-propelled fishing lure  2400 . Lure  2400  includes a pair of anti-torque fins  416  that are provided on opposite sides of lure  2400  to prevent rotation of lure  2400  as a result of rotation of propeller  1124 . Rudder (or fin)  1126  is similarly rotatably positioned in response to user input commands that are delivered to lure  2400  via a transmitting control device within a fishing pole handle. Likewise, propeller  1124  is driven in rotation in response to user input commands that are received from a transmitting control device to lure  2400  using control circuitry in the form of receiving circuitry  140  (of  FIG. 9 ).  
       FIG. 7  illustrates construction of the internal components for the remotely-controlled and self-propelled fishing lure  2400  of  FIG. 6 . It is understood that lure  400  of  FIG. 4  and bobber  1400  of  FIG. 5  are constructed with similar components using substantially identical receiving circuitry to drive a propeller (or a fin) and to position a rudder (or fin).  
      Although not shown herein, it is further understood that an additional servo motor can be provided in the device of  FIG. 7  in order to position a pair of rotatable fins, similar to anti-torque fins  416  (see  FIG. 6 ). However, such fins are rotatably positionable in order to function as dive planes that enable a user to navigate lure  2400  to various depths by changing the angle of attack on fins  416  while driving lure  2400  in a forward (or reverse) direction via rotation (or counter-rotation) of propeller  1124 .  
      As shown in  FIG. 7 , self-propelled lure  2400  includes a direct current (DC) electric motor  148  that is provided within a watertight and sealed interior of lure  2400 . An exit shaft on motor  148  extends through a localized seal in a housing for lure  2400  in order to drive propeller  1124  in rotation outside of the housing of lure  2400  for driving lure  2400  in a forward direction (and, optionally, a reverse direction). A servo motor  144  is used to reposition a servo arm in various rotatable positions to rotate a rudder  1126  to desired rotary positions to change direction of lure  2400  when viewed in plan view. A receiver  142  comprises receiving circuitry  140  (see  FIG. 10 ) for directing operation of motor  148  and servo motor  144 . A battery  136  supplies power to control and receiving circuitry within receiver  142 , as well as to servo motor  144  and drive motor  148 .  
       FIG. 8  illustrates transmitting circuitry  130  that is incorporated within a handle component for a handle on a fishing rod, as depicted below with reference to  FIGS. 10 and 11 . More particularly, a logic function block diagram is illustrated in  FIG. 8  to show how a user provides input signals via a joystick  132  to navigate a fishing apparatus such as a self-propelled fishing lure or fishing bobber into desired positions within a body of water. For example, inputs from joystick  132  are sent to transmitter  134  comprising transmitting circuitry. Transmitting circuitry includes an antenna that transmits wireless signal information to a receiver  142  (see  FIG. 9 ) which has similar receiving circuitry and a receiving antenna therein. A battery  136  supplies power to transmitting circuitry  130 . An on/off switch  138  enables a user to turn power supply on and off from battery  136  for transmitting circuitry  130 .  
       FIG. 9  illustrates a logic function block diagram for a remotely-controlled and self-propelled lure. Alternatively, a remotely-controlled and self-propelled bobber can have similar circuitry configured to move either a propeller or fin and one or more rudders or dive planes. As shown in  FIG. 9 , a receiver  142  provides receiving circuitry  140  that receives a signal that has been transmitted from transmitting circuitry  130  (of  FIG. 8 ). In this manner, a user can provide input signals that are received via receiver  142  and which are used to direct operation of a servo motor  144  and a drive motor  148  in order to properly position a rudder  1126  and propeller  1124 , respectively, to a user-desired position. In this manner, a user can navigate a self-propelled lure (or bobber) to desired positions within a body of water by sending desired input signals via receiver  142  to servo motor  144  and drive motor  148 . A supply of power is provided via a direct current (DC) battery  146  to receiver  142 , servo motor  144 , and drive motor  148 . Servo motor  144  pivotally positions a servo arm  150  in order to move a rudder to a left position, a right position, or an intermediate position. Likewise, drive motor  144  can be configured to drive a propeller  1124  in either a forward direction or a reverse direction. Furthermore, drive motor  148  can be turned off in order to stop motion of propeller  1124  so as to position a lure in a desired, stationary position within a body of water. It is further understood that dive planes can be added to the circuitry of  FIG. 9  via the addition of another servo motor(s) and servo arm(s) in order to rotatably position dive planes in a manner that can be used to adjust the depth of a lure as it is being propelled through a body of water via rotation of propeller  1124 .  
       FIG. 10  is a side elevational view of a fishing pole  102  having a fishing rod  103  and a handle  404  constructed according to techniques disclosed in pending U.S. Patent application Ser. Nos. 10/607,285 entitled “Fishing Rod” filed Jun. 25, 2003, and 10/655,792 entitled “Fishing Rod Connector, and Connector Assemblies for Fishing Poles” filed Sep. 4, 2003, both of which are herein incorporated by reference. Additionally, handle assembly  404  of  FIG. 11  includes a handle component  111  that includes a hollow chamber in which transmitting circuitry  130  (see  FIG. 8 ) is provided therein. More particularly, transmitting circuitry  130  includes a joystick  132  that extends laterally from handle component  111  and an on/off switch  138  that extends downwardly from handle component  111 . Transmitting circuitry  130  includes a transmitter  134  having a transmitting antenna extending therefrom. According to one construction, the transmitting antenna can be encased within handle component  111 . According to another construction, the antenna of transmitter  134  can extend externally of handle component  111  via a sealed aperture provided in handle component  111 . Additionally, a direct current (DC) battery  136  is also provided within handle component  111 .  
      More particularly, handle component  111  comprises a rigid aluminum tube  141  that is surrounded by a cork cover  143 . A plug  145  is provided in a distal end of tube  144  for threadingly receiving an end cap  147  that retains one or more counter weights  149  along such distal end of handle component  111 .  
      Weights  149  can be added or removed from handle component  111  in order to balance a fishing pole pursuant to techniques that were taught in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/679,224 entitled “Fishing Poles, Counter-Balancing Apparatus for Fishing Poles and Fishing Pole Handles, and Methods for Balancing Fishing Poles” and filed Oct. 2, 2003, herein incorporated by reference.  
      According to one construction, transmitter  134  includes transmitting circuitry  130  that is miniaturized in order to fit within tube  141 . Additionally, seals can be added to weights  149  and end cap  147  in order to seal the interior of tube  141  so as to protect electronic components encased therein. Likewise, joystick  132  and switch  138  can be provided with O-ring seals in order to seal joystick  132  and switch  138  with tube  141 .  
      One suitable construction for transmitting circuitry  130  comprises a 2.4 GHz ISM band transceiver, Model No. MC13192, sold by Freescale Semiconductor, Inc., 6501 William Cannon Drive West, Austin, Tex. 78735. Freescale Semiconductor, Inc. was previously referred to as Motorola&#39;s Semiconductor Products Sector (SPS) of Motorola, Inc. Such exemplary transmitting circuitry comprises transmitting and receiving circuitry configured in a miniature chip set that uses infrared (IR) technology and an accelerometer to transmit signals to a similar and compatible receiver. Such a transceiver supports IEEE 802.15.4 wireless standard supporting star and mesh networking. Such transceiver can also be used with a microcontroller (MCU) and accompanying software in order to provide a cost-effective and miniature solution for short-range data links and networks. Interfacing with an MCU can be accomplished by using a four-wire serial peripheral interface (SPI) connection, which can enable the use of a variety of processors. Accordingly, software and processors can be scaled in order to fit applications ranging from a simple point-to-point system, all the way through a complete networking solution.  
      Optionally, any of a number of known transmitting and receiving circuitries can be utilized for the implementations depicted in  FIGS. 8 and 9 . One suitable alternative construction for transmitter  130  of  FIG. 11  comprises a Hitech Laser  4  transmitter available from Hitech RCD USA, Inc., of 12115 Paine St., Poway, Calif. 92064. For example, a Cirrus Micro Joule FM receiver can be utilized for receiving circuitry. With respect to power supplies, respective batteries can comprise any DC batteries such as Triple A-type lithium rechargeable batteries or any other store-purchased small battery, such as a watch battery. Furthermore, one exemplary servo motor comprises a Cirrus CS-3 Micro Joule servo motor.  
       FIG. 12  illustrates a first alternative construction for a transmitter over that depicted in  FIGS. 10-11 . Likewise,  FIG. 13  illustrates a second alternative construction for a transmitter over that depicted in  FIGS. 10-11 .  
       FIG. 14  illustrates construction of joystick  32  including a pivotable X and Y axis base component  404  for directing X and Y axis positioning when navigating a navigable fishing apparatus such as a fishing lure or a fishing bobber. X axis motion will impart left and right positioning for a rudder, whereas Y axis positioning of joystick  132  will impart forward and reverse propulsion to a propeller.  
       FIG. 15  illustrates an optional construction for a user input device for a fishing pole transmitter comprising a finger touch pad  1132 .  
       FIG. 16  illustrates a second alternatively constructed input device comprising a finger ball input device  2132 .  
       FIG. 17  illustrates one construction for an on/off switch  3132  as implemented in the fishing pole of  FIGS. 9-10  and further illustrating another construction for a user input device.  
       FIG. 18  illustrates yet another alternative construction for a user input device comprising a linear potentiometer switch  4132 .  
       FIG. 19  illustrates a fourth embodiment lure  3400  having an impeller  2124  comprising a circumferential array of propeller blades and a rudder  414 .  
       FIG. 20  illustrates a fifth alternatively constructed remote-controlled and self-propelled lure  4400  having a flipper that is moved laterally in order to propel lure  4400  in a forward direction.  
       FIG. 21  is a sixth alternatively constructed lure  5400  comprising a jet drive  420  that is configured to propel lure  5400  in a forward direction.  
       FIG. 22  illustrates a seventh alternatively constructed remote-controlled and self-propelled lure having a paddle wheel  422  carried by a body  400  of lure  6400 .  
       FIG. 23  is an eighth alternatively constructed lure  9400  having an articulating jet drive with an articulating nozzle.  
       FIG. 24  is a ninth alternatively constructed lure  8400  that has a water break, or flap, underneath each of a pair of stationary wings that can be extended and retracted to increase water drag on lure  8400  to break motion of lure  8400 .  
       FIG. 25  illustrates a tenth alternatively constructed lure  9400  having an articulating body that terminates in a propeller. By articulating the body segment, the propeller can be pointed in order to change the propulsion direction of lure  9400 .  
       FIG. 26  illustrates the utilization of multiple motor pods, each having a propeller thereon for driving a fishing apparatus such as a self-propelled lure or bobber.  
       FIG. 27  illustrates one construction for a rudder usable with any of the fishing apparatus, such as lures or bobbers disclosed herein.  
       FIGS. 28-32  illustrate various constructions for a unitary drive module that has an electric drive motor and a propeller therein.  
      For example,  FIG. 28  illustrates a drive module  160  having a motor shaft  162  on which a propeller is directly driven by motor shaft  162  rearwardly of the motor on the module  160 .  FIG. 29  illustrates a drive module having a draft shaft  164  that is flexibly coupled to the motor shaft to provide an angular drive for driving a propeller  124  at an angle.  FIG. 30  illustrates another construction for a module  360  having a flexible drive shaft  166  comprising a cylindrical spring that is provided within a tube in which it is rotated to drive propeller  124 .  FIG. 31  illustrates a third alternative construction for a drive module  460  having coupling/universal joints within a drive shaft  168  for driving a propeller  124 .  FIG. 32  illustrates a fourth alternative construction drive module  560  having a gear drive assembly  170  including a pair of gears  172  and  174  configured to drive a propeller  124  at the rear end of a motor.  
       FIGS. 33-37  illustrate various propeller configurations for a fishing apparatus. For example,  FIG. 33  shows a first propeller configuration  176  having a propeller  124  mounted on the rear of a fishing apparatus.  FIG. 34  shows a second configuration  276  with a propeller  124  at the forward end of a fishing apparatus (bobber or lure).  FIG. 35  shows a third configuration  376  with a propeller  124  provided in an intermediate cavity within a fishing apparatus.  FIG. 36  shows a configuration  476  with a pair of side mounted propellers  124  on a fishing apparatus.  FIG. 37  illustrates a fourth alternative configuration  576  having a top mounted propeller.  
       FIG. 38  illustrates one exemplary DC motor  148  having a motor housing  406 .  
       FIG. 39  illustrates a wind-up motor having an internal coil spring for driving a fishing apparatus, such as a lure or bobber.  
       FIG. 40  shows a second alternative motor construction comprising a gasoline motor  348  usable in a fishing apparatus such as a self-propelled bobber (or lure).  
       FIG. 41  illustrates navigation of a remotely-controlled lure  400  on the top surface of a body of water behind a trolling vessel comprising a motorized boat  108 .  
       FIG. 42  illustrates navigation of a self-propelled and remotely-controlled bobber  400  across the top surface of body of water which has been navigated from a boat  108  by an angler  100  without casting bobber  400  from a first position to a second position across a navigable course.  
       FIG. 43  is a plan view illustrating navigation of a bobber  400  from a first position to a second position after an angler  100  has cast the bobber from a boat  108 .  
       FIG. 44  illustrates navigation of a remotely-controlled and self-propelled fishing lure  400  from a first position to a second position beneath the surface of the water.  
       FIG. 45  illustrates a fishing pole  102  with a handle component  111  having a transmitter therein for controlling a self-propelled bobber  1400 . A reel  106  is affixed to a reel seat  404 . A joystick  132  and an on/off switch  138  are visibly positioned on handle component  111 .  
       FIG. 46  illustrates a fishing pole  102  with a handle component  111  having a transmitter therein for controlling a self-propelled lure  400 . A reel  106  is affixed to a reel seat  404 . A joystick  132  and an on/off switch  138  are visibly positioned on handle component  111 .  
      In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific as to structural and methodical features. It is to be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the specific features shown and described, since the means herein disclosed comprise preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpreted in accordance with the doctrine of equivalents.