Patent Publication Number: US-2021169056-A1

Title: Aquatic trap

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This is a continuation-in-part claiming priority of Patent Cooperation Treaty Application Number PCT/US19/46381, filed Aug. 13, 2019, entitled “CRUSTACEAN TRAP,” which claims priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/719,822, entitled “CRAB POT,” filed Aug. 20, 2018. This is also a non-provisional claiming priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/039,029, entitled “AQUATIC TRAP,” filed Jun. 15, 2020. The prior applications are incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Aquatic traps, such as crab, prawn, and shrimp traps, are devices which are dropped off of fishing boats to the sea floor in order to catch crustaceans and fish. A variety of aquatic trap designs have been developed. 
     The basic elements of a crab trap, also referred to as a crab pot, generally include a cage with hinged doors that open inward only. Bait is fastened inside the cage. Crabs push the doors open to enter the cage, and the crabs become trapped inside when they are subsequently unable to push the doors outward. A long line is attached at the top of the cage, and a buoy is tied to an opposite end of the line. The buoy floats at the water&#39;s surface while the crab pot is left on the sea floor for a period of time. Prawn and shrimp traps are similar to crab traps, in that they are generally configured as cages that sink to the sea floor, and which have entrances that are more easily entered than exited. 
     Fishermen generally load multiple crab or prawn/shrimp traps on a boat, sail to their fishing grounds, bait the traps, and drop them overboard in various locations. The fishermen may then return to shore to retrieve additional traps as desired, repeating the operation as needed to deploy the desired number of traps. They then return to the traps, pull them back to the surface, and retrieve any crustaceans trapped inside. They may again make several trips as needed to return the traps to shore or to the next fishing grounds. 
     Fishing is labor intensive, and there is a need in the industry for improved trap designs which can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of fishing operations. 
     SUMMARY 
     This disclosure presents improved aquatic traps along with methods of manufacturing and using the improved traps. In some examples, an improved aquatic trap may comprise a trap frame. The trap frame can include a floor frame section and a ceiling frame section. The surface area of the ceiling frame section can be larger than the surface area of the floor frame section. A plurality of angled struts can connect the floor frame section to the ceiling frame section. The angled struts define a tapered or angled side between the floor frame section and the ceiling frame section. 
     The trap frame may be surrounded with mesh, including a floor mesh extending over the floor surface area, a side mesh extending over portions of the tapered side, and a ceiling mesh extending over the ceiling surface area. One or more entrances through the tapered side can comprise an entrance mesh extending inwardly from a portion of the tapered side to an entrance frame. The entrance frame can be movable with respect to the trap frame, and in some embodiments, the entrance frame can be a self-erecting entrance frame which lies flat when the trap is stacked, and which self-erects into a vertical orientation when the trap is unstacked, as described further herein. 
     The disclosed aquatic traps can allow nested stacking of multiple aquatic traps. First, the tapered sides of the traps allow nested stacking of traps. Second, the ceiling mesh can be releasable to allow nested stacking of multiple traps, and the ceiling mesh can be restorable for trap deployment. Third, entrance frames can also be movable or collapsible to facilitate nested stacking. For traps without self-erecting entrance frames, a tensioning element can pull the entrance frames inwardly to hold the entrance frames in place for fishing. The tensioning element can be released to allow the entrance frames to rotate, collapse or otherwise or move aside for nested stacking. 
     The disclosed traps can furthermore include features for adjusting trap weight. In an example embodiment, a weight bar can be affixed to the trap frame, and the weight bar can include attachment points for removable weighting elements. Further aspects of the invention are described in detail below. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Various features and attendant advantages of the disclosed technologies will become fully appreciated when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views, and wherein: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates an example trap frame along with entrance frames, a tensioning element and a weight bar. 
         FIG. 2  provides another view of the example trap frame introduced in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  illustrates the example trap frame introduced in  FIG. 1 , along with example entrance meshes installed at entrances thereof. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates the example trap frame introduced in  FIG. 1 , along with example side and floor mesh installed thereon. 
         FIG. 5  illustrates an example first complete trap. 
         FIG. 6  illustrates an example second complete trap. 
         FIG. 7  illustrates nested stacking of multiple traps. 
         FIG. 8  illustrates an example prawn and shrimp trap. 
         FIG. 9  illustrates an elevation view of the example prawn and shrimp trap introduced in  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 10  illustrates the example prawn and shrimp trap introduced in  FIG. 8 , and further comprising a collapsible ceiling mesh. 
         FIG. 11  illustrates an example self-erecting entrance frame, as well as a wide aspect ratio entrance frame. 
         FIG. 12  provides a front elevation view of another example self-erecting entrance frame. 
         FIG. 13  provides a side elevation view of the example self-erecting entrance frame introduced in  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 14  provides a side elevation view of an aquatic trap frame comprising a self-erecting entrance frame that uses the biasing mechanisms introduced in  FIG. 11  and  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 15  illustrates an example aquatic trap frame comprising a weight adjustment system. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Prior to explaining embodiments of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the details of construction or arrangements of the components and method steps set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. Embodiments of this disclosure are capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of the description and should not be regarded as limiting. 
     Embodiments according to  FIGS. 1-6  can optionally be used to catch crab, and so may be referred to herein as a crab trap. Embodiments according to  FIGS. 8-10  can optionally be used to catch prawn and shrimp, and so may be referred to herein as a prawn and shrimp trap. Embodiments according to  FIGS. 1-6  which incorporate wide aspect ratio entrance frames, illustrated in  FIGS. 11 and 12 , in place of the entrance frames illustrated in  FIGS. 1-6 , can optionally be used to catch flat fish, and so may be referred to herein as flat fish traps. However, it will be appreciated that all of the disclosed traps incorporate many similar elements, and any trap can be used as desired to attempt to catch any desired crustacean or fish. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an example trap frame, and  FIG. 1  further illustrates entrance frames, a tensioning element and a weight bar, in accordance with various aspects and embodiments of the subject disclosure. The trap frame  100  may be made, e.g., of stainless steel, rubber coated mild steel, Polly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) coated steel, or other suitably rigid and corrosion resistant material. In some embodiments, a trap frame  100  can be made of composite material, optionally through a 3D printing process. The trap frame  100  includes a floor frame section  104  defining a floor surface area. The term “surface area” as used herein does not necessarily imply the presence of a surface, but can be simply the area defined by the surrounding element. In the illustrated embodiment, the floor frame section  104  includes a circular ring at the bottom of the trap frame  100 . The trap frame  100  further includes a ceiling frame section  102  defining a ceiling surface area which is larger than the floor surface area. In the illustrated embodiment, the ceiling frame section  102  includes a circular ring at the top of the trap frame  100 . 
     The trap frame  100  further includes a plurality of angled struts, such as example angled strut  106  and example angled strut  122 , which connect the floor frame section  104  to the ceiling frame section  102  and define a tapered side between the floor frame section  104  and the ceiling frame section  102 . In the illustrated embodiment, there are nine (9) angled struts, although more or fewer angled struts may be appropriate for other embodiments. The tapered side between the floor frame section  104  and the ceiling frame section  102  comprises an outer “surface” of the conical shape defined by the trap frame  100 —although again, there is not necessarily any actual material surface, as will be understood from  FIG. 1 . In some embodiments, an angle at which the angled struts  106 ,  122  connect to the floor frame section  104  and the ceiling frame section  102  can comprise, e.g., a ten to twenty degree angle, for example, a fifteen degree angle, as measured from vectors extending normal (perpendicular) from the floor surface area or ceiling surface area, respectively. 
     Circular “escape rings”  120  can be attached between some of the angled struts. By Washington State law, crab traps must have at least two escape rings of four and one quarter (4.25) inches in size, located in the top half of the crab trap. Other jurisdictions may have other escape mechanism requirements and the trap frame  100  can be modified to comply with the applicable requirements. As an optional additional feature, crossbars  118  can extend between angled struts, as shown, to form escape windows for undersize crabs. The escape windows can be over the entrances to the trap, as shown. Vertical elements  119  can optionally divide escape windows into multiple sections as desired. 
     A lid  150  can be attached to the trap frame  100 , e.g., by hinge elements  152 . The lid  150  can be semicircular and openable and closable to access an interior of the trap without releasing a ceiling mesh, e.g., as illustrated in  FIG. 5 . The releasable ceiling mesh is discussed further in connection with  FIG. 6 . 
     Entrance frames  108  can also optionally be attached to the trap frame  100 . In the illustrated embodiment, entrance frames  108  are attached by entrance frame hinge elements  110  to support struts  116 , and support struts  116  are welded to the trap frame  100 . Support struts  116  can include elements extending inwardly from the trap frame  100  into the crustacean trap, as shown. Support struts  116  can optionally be braced to the angled struts  106  for better vertical strength, as shown. Support struts  116  can include crossbar elements that support the hinge elements  110 , as shown. Entrance frames  108  can rotate forward and backward on the support struts  116 , thereby allowing entrance frames  108  to rotate up for fishing, and down for nested stacking of traps. In another example embodiment, entrance frames  108  need not be attached to the trap frame  100 , for example as illustrated in  FIG. 8 . 
     In some embodiments the entrance frames  108  can comprise wide aspect ratio frames, with a relatively large width dimension and a relatively short height dimension, e.g., as illustrated in  FIG. 11  and  FIG. 12 . Furthermore, regardless of aspect ratio, the entrance frames  108  can optionally comprise self-erecting entrance frames, e.g., as illustrated in  FIG. 11 ,  FIG. 12 , and  FIG. 13 . Self-erecting entrance frames need not necessarily employ a tensioning element  130 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, one-way gates  112  are attached by gate hinges  114  to the entrance frames  108 . The illustrated one-way gates  112  can comprise “U” shaped metal elements with arms that extend downwardly below the crossbar elements of support struts  116 , so that the one-way gates  112  can swing inwardly into the trap, but cannot swing outwardly. 
       FIG. 1  furthermore illustrates a tensioning element  130 . The tensioning element  130  can comprise, e.g., a wire, a line, a twine, a cord fitted with a coil spring, or an elastic element such as a bungee cord, secured to the entrance frames  108 , in order to pull the entrance frames  108  inwardly. The tension applied by tensioning element  130  is countered by tension applied in an opposite direction by entrance mesh, as shown for example in  FIG. 3 . The entrance frames  108  can be held upright by the tensioning element  130  and the entrance mesh. 
     The tensioning element  130  can be releasable to allow the entrance frames  108  to collapse by rotating on the entrance frame hinge elements  110 , to facilitate nested stacking of multiple traps. Bait may be conveniently zip-tied or otherwise attached to the tensioning element  130 . 
     In some embodiments, springs or other biasing mechanisms may be used to bias the entrance frames  108  into either a vertical (restored) or horizontal (collapsed) position. For self-erecting entrance frames, such as illustrated in  FIG. 11  and  FIG. 12 , entrance frames can be biased into a vertical (restored) position, and entrance frames can be held upright by the biasing mechanism and the entrance mesh. When traps are stacked, self-erecting entrance frames can be forced to collapse into a horizontal (collapsed) position by the weight of a trap stacked above which overcomes the biasing mechanism. The self-erecting entrance frames therefore rotate on the entrance frame hinge elements  110 , to facilitate nested stacking of multiple traps. Bait may be conveniently attached anywhere within the aquatic trap  100 . 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the tensioning element  130  is shared by the three entrance frames  108  by extending between the entrance frames  108 . Alternatively, multiple tensioning elements  130  could be used, e.g., one tensioning element  130  for each of entrance frames  108 . Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the tensioning element  130  forms a full triangle. In some embodiments, tensioning element  130  need not complete the circuit, for example, it may include just two legs of the triangle and remain similarly functional. In some embodiments, tensioning element  130  can include a hook or other fastener to fasten and release tensioning element  130  from the entrance frames  108 . Alternatively, tensioning element  130  can comprise an elastic material to allow entrance frames  108  to rotate outwardly towards the sides of the trap. 
       FIG. 1  also illustrates a weight bar  140  attached to the floor frame section  104 . In the illustrated embodiment, the weight bar  140  is a thicker gauge than the trap frame  100 , and the weight bar  140  is configured in a “Y” shape consisting of three members joined at a middle of the floor surface area. The weight bar  140  is attached to the floor frame section  104  at a perimeter of the floor surface area. Weight bar  140  members may have threaded posts affixed thereto and extending upwardly therefrom, or, conversely, threaded holes into which threaded posts can be screwed, or other fasteners such as magnets, snaps, clips, ties, slots or the like. In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the threaded posts are designed to fit an anode  142  made of zinc or aluminum. The purpose of this anode  142  is to minimize electrolysis created by positively charged salt water moving through the trap while grounded to the sea floor, thereby preventing corrosion of the trap frame  100 . 
     In some embodiments, such as illustrated in  FIG. 15 , a weight bar can optionally be made of a relatively lightweight material, and the weight bar members may comprise fasteners such as threaded posts or the like, described above, for the purpose of attaching weights to the weight bar, thereby permitting adjustment of the trap weight. It can be desirable to adjust the weight of the traps for a variety of reasons, e.g., for different expected current strength, or to allow for lightweight storage and transport of the traps. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates multiple entrance frames  108  which can attach to multiple entrance meshes, as illustrated in  FIG. 3 , to form multiple entrances into the trap. While  FIG. 1  illustrates three entrance frames  108 , it will be appreciated that any number of entrance frames  108  can be included, for example, the trap can consist of three, six, nine, or twelve entrance frames  108  in various alternative embodiments. 
       FIG. 2  provides another view of the example trap frame  100  introduced in  FIG. 1 , in accordance with various aspects and embodiments of the subject disclosure. Repetitive description of like elements is omitted for the sake of brevity.  FIG. 2  illustrates an open lid  150  and a threaded post  202  extending from the weight bar  140 . The anode  142  can comprise a threaded hole to screw and unscrew the anode  142  on the threaded post  202 . While the example threaded post  202  extends from the middle of the weight bar  140 , the threaded post  202  can be positioned anywhere on weight bar  140 . Furthermore, embodiments can include multiple threaded posts  202  for multiple anodes  142 , or for attachment of weights as described in connection with  FIG. 15 . The threaded post  202  is one example fastener to fasten an anode  140  to the trap, other fasteners may be used in other embodiments. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates the example trap frame  100  introduced in  FIG. 1 , along with example entrance meshes installed at entrances thereof, in accordance with various aspects and embodiments of the subject disclosure. Repetitive description of like elements is omitted for the sake of brevity. The illustrated entrance meshes each comprise an upper mesh  302  having relatively larger mesh openings, and a lower mesh  304  having relatively smaller mesh openings. The smaller openings of the lower mesh  304 , e.g., a one and a half (1.5) inch mesh, can facilitate travel over lower mesh  304 , e.g., by crabs. The larger openings of the upper mesh  302 , e.g., a four (4) inch mesh, can comprise a same mesh as used for the floor mesh, ceiling mesh, and side mesh. 
     The illustrated entrance meshes extend inwardly from respective portions of the tapered side of the trap frame  100 . Inward ends of the respective entrance meshes are attached to respective entrance frames  108  as well as the crossbar elements of respective support struts  116 . Outward ends of the respective entrance meshes attach to respective portions of the trap frame  100 .  FIG. 3  illustrates how the tensioning element  130  can be countered by tension in the entrance meshes in order to hold the entrance frames  108  upright. Release of the tensioning element  130  can allow the entrance frames  108  to rotate outward toward the tapered side of the trap frame  100 . 
       FIG. 4  illustrates the example trap frame  100  introduced in  FIG. 1 , along with example side and floor mesh installed thereon, in accordance with various aspects and embodiments of the subject disclosure. Repetitive description of like elements is omitted for the sake of brevity.  FIG. 4  includes a floor mesh  404  extending over the floor surface area of the trap frame  100 , and a side mesh  402  extending over a first portion of the tapered side, wherein additional side mesh panels extend over additional portions of the tapered side. In  FIG. 4 , side mesh  402  extends over a first portion of the tapered side, and a second portion of the tapered side, immediately to the right of side mesh  402 , is used for an entrance mesh extending inwardly from the second portion of the tapered side. Additional portions of the tapered side are used for additional side mesh panels and additional entrances. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates an example first complete trap in accordance with various aspects and embodiments of the subject disclosure. Repetitive description of like elements is omitted for the sake of brevity. First complete trap  500  includes the trap frame  100  introduced in  FIG. 1 , along with the other elements from  FIGS. 1-4  and a first example ceiling mesh  502  installed thereon. In  FIG. 5 , the ceiling mesh  502  comprises a web of flexible cord extending between the lid  150  and a back portion of the ceiling frame section  102 . When the lid  150  is closed, the ceiling mesh  502  extends over the entire ceiling surface area. When the lid  150  is open, the ceiling mesh  502  extends over half of the ceiling surface area, allowing for easy access to the interior of the crab trap. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates an example second complete trap in accordance with various aspects and embodiments of the subject disclosure. Repetitive description of like elements is omitted for the sake of brevity. Second complete trap  600  includes the trap frame introduced in  FIG. 1 , along with the other elements from  FIGS. 1-4  and a second example ceiling mesh  602  installed thereon. Like the ceiling mesh  502 , the ceiling mesh  602  comprises a web of flexible cord extending between the lid  150  and a back portion of the ceiling frame section  102 . The ceiling mesh  602  is furthermore releasable to allow nested stacking of multiple traps, and the ceiling mesh  602  is restorable for trap deployment. In the illustrated embodiment, a drawstring  604 , also referred to as a purse string, can be tightened to draw the ceiling mesh  602  together in the middle thereof. The drawstring  604  can then be pulled around the ceiling frame section  102  and secured, e.g., by a hook, to the ceiling mesh  602 , in order to secure the ceiling mesh  602  in a restored configuration for fishing. The drawstring  604  can be released to loosen the middle of the ceiling mesh  602 , allowing the ceiling mesh  602  to collapse into the crustacean trap to facilitate nested stacking of multiple traps. 
     In another variation of the illustrated second complete trap  600 , the floor mesh, e.g., floor mesh  404  such as illustrated in  FIG. 4 , can optionally also be releasable and restorable, e.g., by including a floor mesh drawstring similar to ceiling mesh drawstring  604 . Additionally, the floor frame section  104  introduced in  FIG. 1  can optionally include a lid similar to ceiling lid  150 , and the lid in the floor frame section  104  can be in addition to the ceiling lid  150 , or instead of the ceiling lid  150 . By fitting the floor frame section  104  with a drawstring, a lid, or both a drawstring and a lid, the second complete trap  600  can optionally be flipped over to fish in an upside-down orientation. Embodiments can optionally be configured to fish exclusively right-side-up, e.g., as illustrated in  FIG. 6 , exclusively upside-down, or in both right-side-up and upside-down orientations, allowing fishermen to select a desired orientation based on conditions. The weight bar  140  can optionally be removed or the illustrated embodiment can be modified to support embodiments that are configured to fish upside-down or both right-side-up and upside-down. 
       FIG. 6  furthermore illustrates a lid securing device  606  to secure the lid  150  in a closed position. In the illustrated embodiment, the lid securing device  606  comprises an elastic band attached to the ceiling frame section  102  and fitted with a hook, wherein the elastic band extends over the lid  150  and the hook attaches to the ceiling mesh  602  to secure the lid  150  in a closed position. In the illustrated embodiment, the lid securing device  606  comprises two leg members which attach to the lid  150 , and a third leg member which attaches to the two leg members and includes the hook to attach to the ceiling mesh  602 . The illustrated elastic band can be replaced by numerous other means to hold the lid  150  closed, as will be appreciated. A lid securing device  606  can comprise, e.g., a rubber band or rubber inner tube, or a stainless steel, coated steel, or plastic hook or clip, or a twine made of cotton, nylon, poly, or spectra. 
     With regard to meshes for use with the traps disclosed herein, the meshes may be made of any suitable material, e.g., a poly, nylon, spectra, PVC coated wire, stainless steel, or other web material. While ceiling meshes and entrance meshes are preferably made of flexible materials to allow for nested stacking, floor meshes and side meshes can optionally be rigid. Some portion of the mesh on a trap, e.g., a portion of the ceiling or side mesh, may comprise a cotton panel designed to eventually dissolve in seawater to allow escape from the traps, in the event that a trap is lost or otherwise left on the sea floor. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates nested stacking of multiple traps, in accordance with various aspects and embodiments of the subject disclosure.  FIG. 7  includes multiple traps  701 ,  702 ,  703 ,  704 ,  705 , and  706 . Trap  701  is nested inside trap  702 , trap  702  is nested inside trap  703 , trap  703  is nested inside trap  704 , and so on. As will be appreciated, the tapered sides of traps  701 ,  702 ,  703 ,  704 ,  705 , and  706  allow the traps to stack in the illustrated nested fashion. Nested stacking increases the number of traps that can be carried on a fishing boat, thereby improving efficiency of fishing operations. The mesh portions of the traps  701 ,  702 ,  703 ,  704 ,  705 , and  706  are not included in  FIG. 7  for clarity of illustration. While  FIG. 7  uses the traps of  FIGS. 1-6  as an example, the prawn and shrimp traps of  FIGS. 8-10  allow for nested stacking in similar fashion. 
       FIG. 8  illustrates an example prawn and shrimp trap, as an example of a trap in accordance with various aspects and embodiments of the subject disclosure. The elements of the prawn and shrimp trap  800  are generally similar to those of the trap illustrated in  FIGS. 1-6 , and similar materials and design considerations can be used. The ceiling mesh is omitted from prawn and shrimp trap  800  in  FIG. 8  in order to more clearly depict the other elements thereof. 
     Similar to the trap illustrated in  FIGS. 1-6 , the prawn and shrimp trap  800  comprises a trap frame comprising: a floor frame section  804  defining a floor surface area, and a ceiling frame section  802  defining a ceiling surface area, wherein the ceiling surface area is larger than the floor surface area. The illustrated floor frame section  804  and ceiling frame section  802  are circular, however, other shapes such as rectangles and polygons can be used in other embodiments. A plurality of angled struts  806  connect the floor frame section  804  to the ceiling frame section  802  and define a tapered side between the floor frame section  804  and the ceiling frame section  802 . 
     The trap frame for prawn and shrimp trap  800  further includes a middle frame section  806 , positioned between the floor frame section  804  and the ceiling frame section  802 , and defining a middle surface area between the floor surface area and the ceiling surface area. In the illustrated embodiment, middle frame section  806  is positioned below the midpoint between the floor frame section  804  and the ceiling frame section  802 . 
     The prawn and shrimp trap  800  can comprise a weight bar  840 , a floor mesh  826  extending over the floor surface area, and a side mesh  824  extending over portions of the tapered side, similar to the trap illustrated in  FIGS. 1-6 . However, in the illustrated embodiment, below the middle frame section  806  the side mesh  824  extends completely around the tapered side of the prawn and shrimp trap  800 , because the entrances are in portions of the tapered side that are above the middle frame section  806 . 
     Entrance meshes  822  extend inwardly from respective portions of the trap frame to respective entrance frames  810 . Entrance meshes  822  are wider at the tapered side, and become narrower as they extend to entrance frames  810 . The entrance frames  810  are attached to the entrance meshes  822  and form entrances into the crustacean trap  800 . Unlike the crab trap design illustrated in  FIGS. 1-6 , the entrance frames  810  for the prawn and shrimp trap  800  are free floating by remaining unattached to any rigid support struts. Tensioning elements  830  can pull the entrance frames  810  inwardly, countered by tension from the entrance meshes  822 , to hold the entrance frames  810  in their fishing positions. Tensioning elements  830  can be releasable, e.g., by hooking or otherwise releasably fastening to entrance frames  810 , to allow the entrance frames  810  to collapse by releasing tension on the entrance meshes  822 , to facilitate nested stacking of multiple crustacean traps. 
     While the prawn and shrimp trap  800  illustrated in  FIG. 8  comprises three entrance meshes  822 , it will be appreciated that larger and smaller embodiments can be made. For example, versions with six, nine, twelve, or another number of entrances can be made according to the principles disclosed herein. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates an elevation view of the example prawn and shrimp trap introduced in  FIG. 8 , in accordance with various aspects and embodiments of the subject disclosure. Repetitive description of like elements is omitted for the sake of brevity.  FIG. 9  illustrates a sewing line  902  to sew mesh onto the trap frame. In general, the meshes disclosed herein can be tied, sewn, or otherwise attached to the trap frame. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates the example prawn and shrimp trap introduced in  FIG. 8 , and further comprising a collapsible ceiling mesh, in accordance with various aspects and embodiments of the subject disclosure. Repetitive description of like elements is omitted for the sake of brevity. In  FIG. 10 , a ceiling mesh  1002  extends over the ceiling surface area of the prawn and shrimp trap  800 . The ceiling mesh  1002  is releasable to allow nested stacking of multiple traps, and the ceiling mesh  1002  is restorable for trap deployment. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, a drawstring  1004 , similar to the drawstring  604  illustrated in  FIG. 6 , can be tightened to draw the ceiling mesh  1002  together in the middle thereof. The drawstring  1004  can then be pulled around the ceiling frame section  802  and secured, e.g., by a hook, to the ceiling mesh  1002 , in order to secure the ceiling mesh  1002  in a restored configuration for fishing. The drawstring  1004  can be released to loosen the middle of the ceiling mesh  1002 , allowing the ceiling mesh  1002  to collapse into the trap to facilitate nested stacking of multiple traps. 
       FIG. 11  illustrates an example self-erecting entrance frame, as well as a wide aspect ratio entrance frame, in accordance with various aspects and embodiments of the subject disclosure. In some embodiments, entrance frames such as illustrated in  FIG. 11  can be incorporated into traps such as illustrated in  FIGS. 1-6 . 
       FIG. 11  includes an entrance frame  1108  analogous to the entrance frame  108  introduced in  FIG. 1 , a support strut crossbar element  1116  analogous to the crossbar of support strut  116  introduced in  FIG. 1 , and entrance frame hinge elements  1110  analogous to the entrance frame hinge elements  110  introduced in  FIG. 1 . In addition,  FIG. 11  includes biasing mechanisms in the form of coils  1150 , which may also be described as torsion springs, wrapped around the support strut crossbar element  1116 , the coils  1150  each comprising a leg which can extend up a side of the entrance frame  1108  to an attachment point  1151 . The attachment point  1151  can comprise a weld or other means of affixing the coil leg on the entrance frame  1108 . 
     The coils  1150  can bias the entrance frame  1108  in an upward/forward direction. The entrance frame  1108  can be pushed back/down into a horizontal orientation, e.g., by hand or by the weight of another trap stacked on top of the entrance frame  1108 . However, when released, the coils  1150  can return the entrance frame  1108  to the upward/forward orientation. When an upper mesh, e.g., upper mesh  302  (illustrated in  FIG. 1 ) is in place, the coils  1150  can pull the upper mesh  302  tight and the upper mesh  302  can “pull back” on the entrance frame  1108  to hold the entrance frame  1108  in the vertical orientation. 
     In an aspect, the entrance frame  1108  can optionally be fitted with one or more one-way gates, such as the one-way gates  112  illustrated in  FIG. 1 . Alternatively, in some embodiments, an obstructing mesh can partially obstruct the opening of the entrance frame  1108 . For example, an upper mesh  302  can extend over the top of the entrance frame  1108  and extend downward to form an obstructing mesh curtain over the entrance frame  1108 . The obstructing mesh can optionally also be attached along at least portions of the sides of the entrance frame  1108 , in order to better obstruct exit from the trap. In still further embodiments, which may be appropriate for some applications, the entrance frame  1108  can remain unobstructed. 
     The entrance frame  1108  is a wide aspect ratio entrance frame. A wide aspect ratio entrance frame, as defined herein, is an entrance frame with a width to height aspect ratio equal or greater to 3:1. The width dimension illustrated in  FIG. 11  can be three or more times larger than the height dimension illustrated in  FIG. 11 . In some embodiments, wide aspect ratio entrance frames according to this disclosure can comprise entrance frames with a width to height aspect ratio equal or greater to 4:1. In some embodiments, wide aspect ratio entrance frames according to this disclosure can comprise entrance frames with a width to height aspect ratio equal or greater to 5:1. In some embodiments, wide aspect ratio entrance frames according to this disclosure can comprise entrance frames with a width to height aspect ratio equal or greater to 6:1. Wide aspect ratio entrance frames are particularly useful for catching flat fish. A variety of flat fish species exist and are of different sizes. Therefore the overall size of the illustrated entrance frame  1108  can range from small, e.g., about one foot wide, to quite large, e.g., about three or more feet wide. 
       FIG. 12  and  FIG. 13  illustrate another example self-erecting entrance frame in accordance with various aspects and embodiments of the subject disclosure.  FIG. 12  provides a front elevation view of the example self-erecting entrance frame  1208 , and  FIG. 13  provides a side elevation view of the example self-erecting entrance frame  1208 . The illustrated entrance frame  1208  can be a wide aspect ratio entrance frame, similar in dimensions to the entrance frame  1108  illustrated in  FIG. 11 . 
       FIG. 12  and  FIG. 13  include entrance frame  1208 , analogous to the entrance frame  108  introduced in  FIG. 1 , a support strut crossbar element  1216  analogous to the crossbar of support strut  116  introduced in  FIG. 1 , entrance frame hinge elements  1210  analogous to the entrance frame hinge elements  110  introduced in  FIG. 1 , and an upper mesh  1202  analogous to the upper mesh  302  introduced in  FIG. 3 . In addition,  FIG. 12  and  FIG. 13  include an example frame lever  1275  that extends from the entrance frame hinge elements  1210 , a floor frame section  1204  analogous to the floor frame section  104  introduced in  FIG. 1 , and biasing mechanisms in the form of elastic bands  1250  attached between the frame lever  1275  and the floor frame section  1204 . Example attachment points  1251  indicate attachments between the elastic bands  1250 , the frame lever  1275 , and the floor frame section  1204 . The elastic bands  1250  can be tied or otherwise fastened at the attachment points  1251 . 
     The elastic bands  1250  can pull the frame lever  1275  to bias the entrance frame  1208  in an upward/forward direction. The entrance frame  1208  can be pushed back/down into a horizontal orientation, e.g., by hand or by the weight of another trap stacked on top of the entrance frame  1208 . However, when released, the elastic bands  1250  can return the entrance frame  1208  to the upward/forward orientation. The elastic bands  1250  can pull the upper mesh  1202  tight and the upper mesh  1202  can “pull back” on the entrance frame  1208  to hold the entrance frame  1208  in the vertical orientation. 
     In some embodiments, the frame lever  1275  can form an angle θ with the entrance frame  1208 , as illustrated in  FIG. 13 . The angle θ can be between 90 and 180 degrees, e.g., 165 degrees. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the elastic bands  1250  can attach anywhere in a radially outward direction from the frame lever  1275 , and the elastic bands  1250  need not necessarily attach to the floor frame section  1204  as shown in  FIG. 12 . In an aspect, the entrance frame  1208  can optionally be fitted with one or more one-way gates, or with an obstructing mesh, or the entrance frame  1208  can remain unobstructed, as discussed above with reference to entrance frame  1108 . 
       FIG. 14  provides a side elevation view of an aquatic trap frame  1400  comprising a self-erecting entrance frame that uses the biasing mechanisms introduced in  FIG. 11  and  FIG. 12 , in accordance with various aspects and embodiments of the subject disclosure.  FIG. 14  includes a ceiling frame section  102 , a floor frame section  104 , angled struts  106 , support struts  116 , and a meshed entrance into the trap, which can be understood by reference to  FIGS. 1-6 . The meshed entrance includes a self-erecting entrance frame  1408 , with entrance meshes installed, e.g., including ceiling mesh  1402 . 
       FIG. 14  demonstrates the use of two different biasing mechanisms in connection with self-erecting entrance frame  1408 .  FIG. 14  includes a coil  1150  such as introduced in  FIG. 11 , and a frame lever  1275  with elastic bands  1250  such as introduced in  FIGS. 12 and 13 . While some embodiments can include two or more different biasing mechanisms as shown, other embodiments may include one biasing mechanism and omit the other biasing mechanism. 
       FIG. 15  provides a top view of an aquatic trap frame  1500  comprising a weight adjustment system, in accordance with various aspects and embodiments of the subject disclosure. The illustrated aquatic trap frame  1500  can include elements of any of the trap frames disclosed herein, e.g., elements of trap frame  100  such as illustrated in  FIG. 1 . For example, the aquatic trap frame  1500  can include a lid  150 , a top frame section  102 , a bottom frame section  104 , angled struts  106  that define a tapered side wall, and entrances. An example entrance is illustrated in  FIG. 15 . 
     The aquatic trap frame  1500  can furthermore be fitted with a weight bar  1540 , analogous to the weight bar  140  introduced in  FIG. 1 . However, in  FIG. 15 , the weight bar  1540  can optionally be lighter weight than the weight bar  140 , e.g., by making the weight bar  1540  from a same or similar material and gauge as other elements of the aquatic trap frame  1500 , such as the material used for top frame section  102  and bottom frame section  104 . Instead of being a fixed weight, the weight bar  1540  can be a part of a weight adjustment system that includes distributed weight attachment points  1541  and weights  1542 . The weight adjustment system comprising weight bar  1540 , weight attachment points  1541 , and weights  1542  can allow custom, reconfigurable weighting of the aquatic trap frame  1500 . 
     The weight attachment points  1541  can comprise threaded posts, threaded holes, or other structures to attach and remove weights  1542 .  FIG. 15  illustrates one weight attachment point  1541 , understanding that additional weight attachment points  1541  are disposed under each of the weights  1542 . The weight attachment points  1541  can be distributed symmetrically around the perimeter of the aquatic trap frame  1500 . For example, weight attachment points  1541  can be positioned at an end of each member of the weight bar  1540 , at a same distance from the bottom frame section  104 , as shown. Further weight attachment points  1541  can be optionally be positioned in balanced, symmetrical fashion, on the weight bar  1540  or elsewhere on the aquatic trap frame  1500 . For example, a weight attachment point  1541  can be positioned in the center of the weight bar  1540 , as shown by the presence of a weight  1542  at that location. In addition to the weight attachment points  1541 , the weight bar  1540  can include an attachment point  1543  for an anode such as anode  142 , illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
     In an embodiment, the weight bar  1540  can be constructed of the same material as the rest of the aquatic trap frame  1500 , e.g., stainless steel, or optionally, composite material, optionally manufactured through a 3D printing process. Threaded nuts, e.g., half inch hex nuts, can be welded to the weight bar  1540  to serve as attachment points  1541 . Weights  1542  can be configured to removably attach to weight attachment points  1541 , e.g., weights  1542  can comprise threaded posts that screw into the threaded nuts. Weights  1542  can optionally be made of rubber-dipped metal, and can comprise, e.g., four inch diameter disks weighing about seven pounds. Alternatively, weights  1542  can be made of any suitable material, and can be of any size, shape, and weight as may be desired for particular embodiments. A variety of different weights  1542  can optionally be employed for different fishing conditions. Weights  1542  weighing about three pounds to about twenty pounds each should be suitable for most trap sizes and fishing conditions. 
     While the illustrated attachment points  1541  are on the weight bar  1540 , it will be appreciated that embodiments may vary by placing the attachment points  1541  in other locations, e.g., distributed around the floor section  104  of the aquatic trap frame  1500 . In such embodiments, the weight bar  1540  can optionally be eliminated from the aquatic trap frame  1500 . 
     The embodiments illustrated herein are examples only, and numerous variations are possible as will be appreciated. Variations in size, shape, and weight may be made. Example dimensions may be, e.g., two to six feet in diameter. Example shapes may be circular as shown herein, or oval, square, rectangular or triangular. Example weights may be six to one hundred twenty (120) pounds, most of which is determined by dimensions and frame sizing. Frame joints may be welded or cast, or held together with bolts or other fasteners. The number of entrance frames may vary, e.g., from one to twelve entrance frames. 
     To manufacture the disclosed crustacean traps, steps may generally include the following. While these steps may be performed in the described sequence, the sequence can also be modified as will be appreciated. Also, some of the steps may be omitted in connection with manufacturing some embodiments, e.g., fewer steps may be needed to manufacture the simpler prawn and shrimp embodiments disclosed herein. 
     The frame can be constructed of steel, composite, or other material as disclosed herein. Floor and ceiling frame sections can be made in their different sizes and welded together with angled struts to form a conical shape. The weight bar can then be added to the frame. The weight bar may be “Y” shaped or for example a double cross bar ranging in weight, length and thickness of steel (or other material) from one to one hundred twenty (120) pounds depending on the application (lighter for sport applications or heavier for ocean commercial applications). The escape rings may then be attached, typically no less than two and up to six escape rings, for faster release of small crabs and made from the same materials as the frame. 
     The entrance frames can be constructed of the same materials as the frame. Construction can comprise bending or shaping stainless steel or other materials, and attaching entrance frames with hinges such as swivel joints to allow rotation of the entrance frames. In some embodiments, entrance frames can be made of composite material through a 3D printing process. Once the entrance frames are made and optionally attached, the upper and lower entrance meshes can be attached. Side mesh can then be installed, including tapered panels between entrances and escape rings. Panels of webbing may be sewn or attached. The floor mesh may then be attached, by sewing or attaching mesh to the floor frame section. 
     In embodiments comprising one-way gate members, the one-way gate members can be installed by fitting them on the entrance frames. One-way gate members may be single or double and made of stainless or coated steel. 
     The lid can be attached to the frame. The lid can be fitted and the lid hinges can be welded to the ceiling frame section so that the lid can open manually by the operator of the trap. The lid can be closed and secured in its operating position with the lid securing device  606 . 
     The collapsing ceiling mesh can be attached to the trap by sewing or attaching half to ceiling frame section, and half to the lid. The collapsing ceiling mesh can be drawn closed by a purse string closure in the center of the top most portion of the trap. An elastic material such as bungee cord, rubber inner tube or rubber band and a plastic, stainless or coated steel hook or snap may be used on the end of the purse string to secure the collapsing ceiling mesh in the closed (restored) position during operation or unsecured/relaxed position for nesting the traps. 
     Finally, a dissolving panel of cotton or other material can be attached as a mesh section of the trap. 
     Methods of using the disclosed traps will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art. In general, methods may include releasing the ceiling mesh drawstring and the entrance frame tensioning element to collapse the ceiling mesh and entrance frames. The traps can then be stacked in a nested fashion. When restoring the traps for deployment, the traps can be unstacked and the ceiling mesh can be restored to its tightened position by pulling the drawstring tight and fastening the drawstring in a closed position. The lid may be opened, and the tensioning element(s) can be restored to restore the entrance frames in their fishing positions. Bait may be attached inside the traps, e.g., to the tensioning elements. The lid may be closed and fastened shut using the lid securing device. With a line and buoy attached to the trap, the trap is now ready to fish. The trap may be dropped overboard and the weight bar and tapered sides will guarantee that the trap lands on the sea floor in the correct upright position. 
     While various embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in art.