Trolling motor device

Abstract

A trolling motor device including an extendable/retractable length drive unit. Preferably, the drive unit is a telescoping drive unit.

Description

CONTINUING INFORMATION

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/396,592 filed on Apr. 4, 2006 and U.S. application Ser. No. 11/341,506 filed on Jan. 30, 2006.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a trolling motor device, in particular to a retractable or telescoping trolling motor device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Currently, there exist a number of electrical powered trolling motors for use with smaller boats, in particular fishing or bass boats. Typically, the trolling motor is mounted on top of the deck at or adjacent the bow or stern of the fishing or bass boat.

The conventional trolling motor includes a mounting unit having a mounting plate, which is fastened to the deck of the boat. The drive unit is pivotably connected to the mounting unit so that the drive unit can be lifted upwards out of the water and pivoted by a pull cord connected to the mounting unit so that the drive unit then lays down flat on top of the deck of the boat for storage. To place the drive unit back in the water, the user again pulls upwardly on the pull cord to lift and pivot the drive unit down into the water.

The drive unit includes an upper steering unit connected to an upper end of a fixed length support shaft, and a lower drive unit connected to a lower end of the same support shaft. The support shaft is pivotably mounted to the mounting unit.

An electric battery (e.g. 12 volt, 24 volt) is electrically connected to a foot pedal control unit mounted on the top of the deck of the fishing or bass boat. A control cable extends from the foot pedal control unit to the upper steering unit of the drive unit. The foot pedal control unit controls both the steering of the drive unit, off/on switch of the drive unit, and the power level of the drive unit.

The long length of the drive unit requires that the mounting unit be long in length to allow the drive unit to be move in and out of the boat. The long length of the drive unit and mounting unit take up deck space and substantially interfere with the user fishing from the deck of the boat. Further, the amount of force required to lift the drive unit using the pull cord in and out of the boat is significant due to the long length of the drive unit.

The trolling motor device according to the present invention provides a significant improvement over existing trolling motors by reducing using less deck space for on board storage of the trolling motor device, making it easier and more convenient to move the drive unit of the trolling motor unit in and out of the water, and allowing for a significant variation or change in the operational height or length of the drive unit and respective depth in the water.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A first object of the present invention is to provide an improved trolling motor device.

A second object of the present invention is to provide an improved bow trolling motor device.

A third object of the present invention is to provide an improved transom trolling motor device.

A fourth object of the present invention is to provide an improved trolling motor device with an extendable/retractable drive unit.

A fifth object of the present invention is to provide a trolling motor device with a telescoping drive unit.

A sixth object of the present invention is to provide a trolling motor device with an improved mounting unit.

A seventh object of the present invention is to provide an improved trolling motor device with an improved drive unit.

An eighth object of the present invention is to provide an improved trolling motor device with an improved drive unit housing.

A ninth object of the present invention is to provide an improved trolling motor device including a combined drive unit and steering unit combined with an extendable/retractable or telescoping drive unit.

A tenth object of the present invention is to provide a trolling motor device having an improved mounting unit.

An eleventh object of the present invention is to provide a trolling motor device having a combined mounting unit and steering unit.

A twelfth object of the present invention is to provide a trolling motor device having a combined mounting and steering device.

A thirteenth object of the present invention is to provide a trolling motor device having a combined mounting and steering device in combination with an extendable/retractable drive unit.

A fourteenth object of the present invention is to provide a trolling motor device having a combined mounting unit and steering unit in combination with a telescoping drive unit.

A fifteenth object of the present invention is to provide a trolling motor device having a mounting unit including a mounting bracket connecting with a drive unit, the mounting bracket including a steering unit.

A sixteenth object of the present invention is to provide a trolling motor device including a telescoping drive unit in combination with breakaway steering.

A seventeenth object of the present invention is to provide a trolling motor device including a telescoping drive unit in combination with remote control steering.

An eighteenth object of the present invention is to provide a trolling motor device including a telescoping drive unit in combination with a mounting unit having steering provide through one of the support arms of the mounting unit.

A nineteenth object of the present invention is to provide a trolling motor device including a releasable stop mechanism for adjusting the operational height of a telescoping drive unit of the trolling motor device.

A twentieth object of the present invention is to provide a trolling motor device having an adjustable length drive unit.

The present invention is directed to an improved trolling motor device, in particular an improved bow mounted trolling motor device and an improved transom mounted trolling motor. The trolling motor device according to the present invention includes a mounting unit and a drive unit. Preferably, the drive unit is pivotably connected to the mounting unit in the bow mounted trolling motor device.

The mounting unit is configured to be mounted on top of the deck of the fishing or bass boat. For example, the mounting unit includes a mounting plate to be fastened to the deck of the fishing or bass boat (e.g. the mounting plate is provide with through holes for accommodating fasteners such as screws for securely attaching the mounting plates on top of the boat. Alternatively, the mounting unit can be connected to a side or top and side of the boat (e.g. transom mounted version of trolling motor device).

The drive unit includes an upper steering unit and a lower drive unit. A drive unit housing connects the upper steering unit to the lower drive unit. In some embodiments of the transom mounted version of the trolling motor device according to the present invention, the steering unit may be eliminated.

The bow mounted trolling motor device according to the present invention is preferably a bow trolling motor device to be mounted or installed at or adjacent to the bow of the boat, in particular on the upper deck of the fishing or bass boat. The trolling motor device according to the present invention is configured to be pivoted from a substantially horizontal resting or stowed position on top of the deck at the bow of the boat to a substantially vertical operating position for propelling the boat.

The trolling motor device according to the present invention includes a mounting unit connected to drive unit. Preferably, the drive unit is pivotally connected to the mounting unit. The mounting unit, for example, can include one or more mounting plates configured to be secured to the boat (e.g. upper surface of deck). The trolling motor device according to the present invention includes a drive unit that is extendable/retractable or telescoping to the change to length thereof to facilitate lifting or lower and pivoting of the drive unit back and forth between the substantially horizontal non-operating resting or stowed position to the substantially vertical operating position. Specifically, the trolling motor device according to the present invention is configured so that the drive unit is retracted to a compacted configuration when the drive unit is being pivoted. Further, the operational depth of the lower end of the drive unit in the water can be adjusted by raising or lowering the lower end of the drive unit relative to the upper end of the drive unit while the trolling motor is stopped or during operation thereof.

The retracted compact mode of the drive unit greatly facilitates the ease and convenience of a user pivoting the drive unit between these two basic positions (i.e. non-operating up position and operating down position). Further, the retracted compact mode of the drive unit significantly decreases the stowage space required on top of the deck for the trolling motor device (i.e. retracted compact mode of drive unit interferes less with user's operating space on deck).

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the trolling motor device according to the present invention, the drive unit is moved from a fully retracted position to a fully extended position, or from a fully extended to a fully compacted position quickly in a fast continuous movement. For example, the drive unit includes a manual device or manual actuating device (e.g. cord, cable, spring, belt, pulley, gear, crank, lanyard) to manually extend or retract the drive unit in fast continuous movement. Alternatively, the drive unit is provided with an automatic actuating device (e.g. hydraulic actuator, pneumatic actuator, electrical actuator, electro/magnetic actuator, powered rack and pinion) to move the drive unit between the extended position and retracted position, or from the retracted position to the extended position in a fast continuous movement. In a most preferred embodiment, the drive unit is provided with a powered actuating unit and control (e.g. remotely controlled hand on foot control or pedal, or on the drive unit itself) to automatically retract/extend the drive unit in a fast continuous movement.

In the most preferred embodiment, the drive unit is automatically retracted/extended while being automatically pivoted both in a fast continuous movement. In this manner, the drive unit is retracting/extending during the pivoting phase so that the drive unit is at least partially extended or fully extended when the drive unit reaches the substantially vertical or horizontal position. Alternatively, the drive unit can be configured so that the drive unit automatically extends only after the drive unit is fully pivoted from the substantially horizontal position to the substantially vertical position, however, there will exist a longer deployment time from the resting or stowed non-operating position to the fully deployed operational position when the drive unit is fully extended. However, in the most preferred embodiment, the drive unit quickly and easily extends or retracts while the drive unit is pivoted in and out of the boat again to optimize and reduce the time and effort to move the drive unit back and forth between the non-operating and operating positions. In an even more preferred embodiment of the trolling motor device according to the present invention, the drive unit is both automatically retracted/extended and pivoted (e.g. by powered actuators) and configured so that the drive unit is both pivoting and extending or retracting simultaneously again to increase the speed and reduce the time of deployment down into the water or retracting up to the resting or stowed position.

The drive unit of the trolling motor device according to the present invention is configured to extend or retract in overall length. In a preferred embodiment, the drive unit is provided with an extendable and retractable drive unit housing connecting an upper powered steering unit to a lower drive unit. For example, the drive unit housing can include an inner housing unit slidably disposed within an outer housing unit to form a drive unit housing assembly (e.g. a smaller diameter shaft slidably disposed within a larger diameter shaft).

The extendable or retractable drive unit housing can be provided with an actuator for extending or retracting the length of the drive unit housing assembly. The actuator can be a manually operated actuator (e.g. cord, cable, screw drive with hand crank, belt, manually operated screw actuator, cog belt, pulley), or can be a powered actuator (e.g. hydraulic actuator, pneumatic actuator, electric actuator, electromagnetic actuator, screw shaft). Alternatively, the drive unit can be configured to change in length by collapsing or folding in other manners versus a preferred telescoping arrangement.

The trolling motor device according to the present invention includes a mounting unit connected to a drive unit, preferably by a pivot connection. This arrangement allows the drive unit to be pivoted from a substantially horizontal storage position on the deck of the boat to a substantially vertical operational position. The trolling motor device according to the present invention also includes a control unit for controlling the steering, power on/off to the drive unit, forward/reverse operation, and the level of power to the drive unit. Preferably, the control unit is a foot pedal control unit connected to the drive unit by a control cable.

In a preferred embodiment, the foot pedal control unit is connected to the drive unit by a movable steering cable contained within the control cable. Further, the foot pedal control unit includes electronic controls connected by electrical wires extending from the foot pedal control unit to the drive unit contained within the control cable to control power on/off to the drive unit, control forward/reverse, and/or control the level of power to the drive unit from the boat battery. Specifically, the boat battery (e.g. 12 volt or 24 marine battery(ies)) is connected to the foot pedal control by a power cable.

The mounting unit includes a mounting bracket secured to the deck of the boat (e.g. by screw fasteners). The drive unit can be directly pivotally connected to the mounting unit. More preferably, the mounting unit including a pair of mounting brackets, including one connected to the deck of the boat, and one connected to the drive unit. At least one support arm, preferably two (2) support arms, pivotally connects the two mounting brackets together. In this manner, the support arm(s) can swing almost one hundred eighty degrees (180°) to lift and pivot the drive unit up and outwardly from the boat, or up and inwardly into the boat. The mounting unit is preferably connected at or adjacent the bow or transom of the boat.

The drive unit includes an upper steering unit connected to an upper end of a drive unit housing, and a lower drive unit connected to a lower end of the drive unit housing. The drive unit housing is preferably a telescoping drive unit housing including two, three or more telescoping drive unit-housing sections. In a preferred embodiment, the drive unit housing includes an upper housing unit with a lower housing unit slidably disposed within the upper unit housing. For example, the upper drive unit housing can be a larger size hollow shaft (e.g. cylinder having a circular, triangular, square, hexagon, octagon cross-sectional shape), and the lower housing unit can be a smaller size hollow shaft (e.g. cylinder having a circular, triangular, square, hexagon, octagon cross-sectional shape) slidably disposed within the larger diameter cylinder. The upper drive unit housing and/or the lower drive unit housing can have a traverse cross-sectional shape in the form of a circle, triangle, square, star, symmetrical, asymmetrical, or custom shaped such as the shape of an air foil to provide laminar flow about the drive shaft housing to reduce drag.

The drive unit housing can be configured so that both the upper drive unit housing and the lower drive unit housing turn together (i.e. upper drive unit housing is mechanically coupled to the lower drive unit housing while providing telescoping of the lower drive unit housing in and out of the upper drive unit housing). Alternatively, the upper drive unit housing can be independent of the lower drive unit housing (i.e. the upper drive unit housing is decoupled from the lower unit housing) requiring the lower drive unit housing to be directly connected to the steering mechanism or steering coupling. In the embodiment in which the upper drive unit housing is mechanically coupled to the lower drive unit housing, the upper drive unit housing can be directly connected to the steering mechanism or steering coupling, which in turn drives the lower drive unit housing.

Preferably, the upper drive unit housing is mechanically coupled to the lower drive unit housing throughout the travel of the lower drive unit housing in and out of the upper drive unit housing. In this manner, the steering registration between the upper drive unit housing and the lower drive unit housing is maintained throughout the travel up or down of the lower drive unit housing within the upper drive unit housing. Alternatively, the drive unit housing can be configured so that the upper drive unit housing and lower drive unit housing are not coupled during part of the travel of the lower drive unit housing up and down within the upper drive unit housing, and then become mechanically coupled during another portion of the travel there between. For example, the upper drive unit housing and the lower drive unit housing are decoupled when the lower drive unit housing is fully retracted within the upper drive unit housing, and then become coupled when the lower drive unit housing is partially or fully lowered or extended from the upper drive unit housing.

The upper steering unit is electrically connected to the lower drive unit by at least one, preferably two or three electrical wires. Preferably, the electrical wires are bundled together as a drive unit power cable (e.g. coiled flexible power cable) disposed with the drive unit housing to accommodate telescoping of the lower drive unit housing from the upper drive unit housing. Alternatively, the drive unit power cable can be provided on a spring biased reel or spool located within the drive unit (e.g. upper steering unit or lower drive unit) to accommodate the change in length of the drive unit power cable. The control cable located between the foot pedal control unit and the drive unit directs power from the boat battery to the upper steering unit and down through the drive unit power cable contained within the drive unit housing to the lower drive unit containing an electrical motor (e.g. 12 volt, 24 volt, 36 volt, DC electrical motor). Again, the control for power on/off and the control for the level of power is preferably controlled by the foot pedal control unit preferably provided on the deck of the boat.

The trolling motor device according to the present invention preferably includes a drive unit, including combined steering and telescoping features. In a preferred embodiment, the lower drive unit housing is preferably at least partially retracted up into the upper drive unit housing (i.e. at least partially compacted) prior to the step of lifting and pivoting the drive unit from a substantially vertical down operational position into the boat and then situated in a substantially horizontal up non-operational resting or stowed position laying on top of the deck of the boat. In this manner, the center of gravity of the drive unit is significantly moved upwardly due to the retraction of the lower drive unit housing into the upper drive unit housing. This greatly reduces the effort and force required to pivot the drive unit into the boat providing significant convenience to the user. Further, the space required for storing the compacted drive unit on the deck of the boat is significantly decreased (e.g. by one-half).

In one preferred embodiment of the trolling motor device according to the present invention, the lower drive unit housing is retracted into the upper drive unit housing manually (i.e. without the assistance of a powered device, drive or actuator) greatly simplifying the mechanism and mechanics involved with retracting the lower unit housing into the upper unit housing (e.g. by use of a rope, cable, lanyard, wire, rod, belt can be utilized for retracting the lower drive unit housing into the upper drive unit housing). For example, the lower end of a cable can be connected (inside or outside) to the lower housing unit, and an upper end of the cable can be provided with a gripping handle so that the user can lift up and retract the lower housing unit into the upper housing unit. The cable can be disposed within both the lower housing unit and the upper drive unit housing and come out of the upper steering unit, or the cable can be connected to the lower drive unit housing and connect with the mounting unit by passing the upper housing unit.

In other preferred embodiments of the trolling motor device according to the present invention, the lower drive unit housing is lifted up and retracted into the upper housing unit by providing a powered device, drive or actuator inside, or outside, or part of the drive unit or drive unit housing. The powered actuator provides for automatic or non-manual retraction of the lower drive unit housing into the upper drive housing. For example, the actuator can be a hydraulic actuator, pneumatic actuator, electric actuator, electromagnetic actuator, powered rack and pinion, powered rack and worm gear, powered screw actuator, or some other suitable powered device, drive or actuator that can be located inside, outside and/or a part of the drive unit or drive unit housing.

The powered device, drive, or actuator can be controlled by a separate controller located on the drive unit (e.g. upper steering unit), or more preferably on the foot pedal control unit.

In a manually actuated embodiment of the trolling motor device according to the present invention, the lower drive unit housing is freely slidable within the upper drive unit housing. In this manner, when the cable is pulled by the user, the lower drive unit housing is lifted up and retracted into the upper unit housing, and upon further pulling of the cable by the user the drive unit is pivoted via the mounting unit into the boat in a fast continuous movement. To place the drive unit into operation, the user lifts up the upper steering unit while pushing outwardly to pivot the drive unit off the boat. As the drive unit pivots from a substantially horizontal position to a substantially vertical position the lower drive unit housing begins to freely slide and extend or telescope out of the upper drive unit housing under its own weight until fully extended. The weight of the lower drive unit maintains the lower drive unit housing fully extended from the upward drive unit housing during operation of the trolling motor device.

Optionally, the lower drive unit housing is locked in the fully extended position from the upper drive unit housing so there exists no chance of sliding movement between the upper drive unit housing and the lower drive unit housing during operation of the drive unit. The locking device can be a spring-loaded pin, latch, lever, slide or some other suitable mechanical locking device. The locking device can be manually operated, or can be operated remotely by use of a linkage, rod, cable, electronic actuator, electromechanical actuator, hydraulic actuator, pneumatic actuator, or by some other suitable device for remotely releasing the locking device. Further, an additional locking device can be configured to also lock the lower drive unit housing into the upper drive unit housing when the lower drive unit housing is fully retracted within the upper drive unit housing. In this manner, the upper drive unit housing and lower drive unit housing are locked together during the pivoting operation in and out of the boat. This additional locking device can be operated manually or remotely as discussed above for the first locking device.

Another preferred embodiment of the trolling motor device according to the present invention includes a combined mounting unit and steering unit. Preferably, the steering unit is integrated or incorporated within a mounting bracket of the mounting unit, which mounting bracket connects to the drive unit. Preferably, this combined mounting unit and steering unit arrangement is also combined with the extendible/retractable or telescoping drive unit according to the present invention, however, this combined mounting unit and steering unit arrangement can be utilized with a fixed length drive unit.

This combined mounting unit and steering unit arrangement provides the advantages of: 1) making the drive unit more compact (i.e. overall length of drive unit is reduced); 2) making the drive unit easier to rotate between stowed and operational positions; 3) reducing the length of the control cable: 4) reducing the possibility of the control cable being damaged; 5) eliminating the control being in the way of the user especially while fishing; and 6) reducing the size of the drive unit when stowed on deck to keep out of the way of the user.

The combined mounting unit and steering unit can be configured to also allow the drive unit to be rotated between stowed and operational positions. Specifically, the control cable can be designed or configured to remain fully intact and connected during the rotation of the drive unit by using a specialized steering cable and electrical cable connectors (e.g. bell cranks, rotating shafts, cams, linkages) or more flexible and bendable type steering cable and electrical cable that allow for substantial rotation or bending (e.g. 180 degrees) between sections of the steering cable and electrical cable. The cable control can be designed to bend at one point or multiple points. Further, the control cable can be separated into the wire cable and electrical cable within the mounting unit and then the wire cable and/or electrical cable can be designed to bend at one point or multiple points. Alternatively, one or both of the wire cable and/or electrical cable can be designed or configured to connect/disconnect during rotation of the drive unit. Specifically, sections of the wire cable and/or the electrical cable can connect when the drive unit is lowered to its operational position, and disconnected when the drive unit begins to be rotated to its stowed position.

In a preferred embodiment, sections of the wire cable located within the mounting unit connect when the drive unit is lowered to its operational position, and disconnected when the drive unit begins to be rotated upwardly towards its stowed position. Further, in this preferred embodiment, the electrical cable bends and remains fully intact and connected during rotation of the drive unit up or down.

A preferred embodiment of the trolling motor device according to the present invention includes a break away steering mechanism. Specifically, the drive unit and mounting unit are configured to accommodate relative movement therebetween when the drive unit hits an underwater obstruction during use to avoid breakage of the trolling motor device. For example, the break away steering mechanism can allow for translational and/or angular movement of the drive unit relative to the mounting unit. The break away steering mechanism is preferably tailored to accommodate the adjustable length drive unit (e.g. telescoping drive unit) to prevent damage between an upper portion of the drive unit and a lower portion of the drive unit (e.g. telescoping parts). The break away steering mechanism is preferably configured to break away with less force than normally required for a single piece drive unit due to the more fragile structural configuration of an adjustable height drive unit (e.g. telescoping drive unit).

The steering mechanism for the trolling motor device according to the present invention can be a mechanical steering mechanism, as described above, or preferably is a remote control steering unit. For example, the foot pedal is configured to generate an electromagnetic signal to remotely control (i.e. without a wire) a steering unit provided on or connected to the drive unit of the trolling motor device. The wireless control arrangement eliminates the need for the conventional prior art steering cable. Remote control steering combined with an adjustable height unit (e.g. telescoping drive unit) provides for many advantages of a much more compact unit for transitioning in and out of the water and onto the deck of the boat, and elimination of the awkward conventional prior art control cable which tends to be in the way and subject to breakage. This wireless arrangement combined with the adjustable height drive unit (e.g. telescoping drive unit) greatly reduces the overall size and ease of operation of the trolling motor device.

The adjustable height drive unit (e.g. telescoping drive unit) according to the present invention can be configured to change height by the use of manual, mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and/or pneumatic actuation. A simple manual and mechanical height adjustment is preferred in many applications due to the simplicity, ease of operation and durability of such adjustable height mechanism for the adjustable height drive unit (e.g. telescoping drive unit). For example, a handle to be actuated by a user's hand to lift and lower (i.e. shorten and lengthen) the adjustable height drive unit can be suitable for some applications. More specifically, a handle attached to a wire or cable connected internally within the adjustable height drive unit to change the height of the drive unit can be a good arrangement. For instance, a user grips the handle and lift upwardly to both reduce the height of the drive unit, and serially or simultaneously actuates the mounting device to raise the drive unit onto the deck of the boat in a one-step or two-step operation. To return the drive unit to the water, the user simples again lifts up on the handle to drop the drive unit into the water and continues to release the handle to allow the drive unit to lengthen to its operational length.

In such an embodiment, it is desirable to provide a height adjustment to adjust the operational length of the drive unit to accommodate different boats or uses of the trolling motor device. It is desirable that the height adjustment for the drive unit can be achieved quickly and easily by a simple actuation of the height adjustment. For example, a releasable locking mechanism can be used to adjust the operational height of the drive unit. For example, a separate handle connected to a release pin locking mechanism can control the height adjustment by the user. The release pin locking mechanism can be configured so as to be operational when the drive unit is in or out of the water.

The adjustable height unit according to the present invention is preferably a telescoping drive unit. However, other arrangements such as a side-by-side upper drive unit and lower drive unit slidably connected together can be utilized. The upper drive unit and lower drive unit can be moved relative to each other manually, mechanically, electrically, pneumatically and/or hydraulically depending on the design and application of the trolling motor device.

Another embodiment of the trolling motor device according to the present invention is a transom mounted trolling motor device. The transom mounted trolling motor device according to the present invention can include steering or not include steering depending on configuration and/or application. Further, the transom mounted trolling motor in some embodiments is configured to pivot in and out of the water, and in other embodiments the drive unit is fixed to the mounting unit. In the fixed embodiment, it is preferred that the length of travel of the lower end of the drive unit relative to the upper end of the drive unit is sufficient to raise the lower end of the drive completely out of the water for storage thereof without the need to pivot same out of the water. Further, preferably the operational depth of the lower end of the drive unit is adjustable during operation of the trolling motor device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a preferred embodiment of the trolling motor device according to the present invention having a separate mounting unit and separate steering unit.

FIG. 2A is a side elevational view of the trolling motor device shown in FIG. 1, placed in a resting or stowed position.

FIG. 2B is a side elevational view of the trolling motor device shown in FIG. 1, in a transitional position being pivot down towards an operational position.

FIG. 2C is a side elevational view of the trolling motor device shown in FIG. 1, shown in its operational position, with the lower drive unit in its upper most position or otherwise fully retracted position.

FIG. 2D is a side elevational view of the trolling motor device shown in FIG. 1, in an operational position with the lower drive unit in its lower most position or otherwise fully extended position.

FIG. 3 is a partial and cross-sectional side elevational view of the trolling motor device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is an exploded broken away partial and cross-sectional side elevational view of the trolling motor device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic side view of a drive unit housing hydraulically actuated.

FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic side view of a drive unit housing pneumatically actuated.

FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic side view of a drive unit housing actuated by a separate actuator.

FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic side view of a drive unit housing actuated by a rack and pinion arrangement.

FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic side view of a drive unit housing actuated by a rack and worm gear arrangement.

FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic side view of a drive unit housing manually actuated by a cable and handle.

FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of another preferred embodiment of the trolling motor device according to the present invention having a combined mounting unit and steering unit.

FIG. 12 is a partial broken away side elevational view of the mounting unit with mounting bracket of the trolling motor device shown in FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a transverse cross-sectional view of the mounting bracket, as indicated in FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a transverse cross-sectional view of the lower bracket arm, as indicated in FIG. 12.

FIG. 15 is a transverse cross-sectional view of both the mounting bracket and the lower bracket arm in a raised open position.

FIG. 16 is a transverse cross-sectional view of both the mounting bracket and the lower bracket arm is a lowered closed position.

FIG. 17 is a top planar view of the mounting bracket of the mounting unit shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 18 is a bottom planar view of the lower bracket arm of the mounting unit shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 19 is a side longitudinal cross-sectional view of a lower portion of the mounting unit shown in FIG. 12 with the lower bracket arm in a raise open position with the sections of the wire cable disconnected.

FIG. 20 is a side longitudinal cross-sectional view of a lower portion of the mounting unit shown in FIG. 12 with the lower bracket arm in a lowered closed position with the sections of the wire cable connected together.

FIG. 21 is a side elevational inside view of the mounting unit shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 22 is a partial broken away longitudinal cross-sectional side view of the mounting bracket of the mounting unit shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 23 is an elevational view of the trolling motor device with the drive unit in a vertical orientation prior to encountering a submerged object.

FIG. 24 is a side elevational view of the trolling motor device shown in FIGS. 1 and 23 showing the drive unit in an inclined orientation after encountering a submerged object to illustrate the break away feature.

FIG. 25 is another embodiment of the trolling motor device according to the present invention having a remote control, power control and steering arrangement.

FIG. 26 is a diagrammatic view of the remote control power and steering control system.

FIG. 27 is a side elevational view of another embodiment of the mounting unit.

FIG. 28 is a side cross-sectional view of a further embodiment of the trolling motor device according to the present invention.

FIG. 29 is a side elevational view of an even further embodiment of the trolling motor device according to the present invention.

FIG. 30 is a detailed partial broken away cross-sectional view showing the construction of the adjustable height mechanism.

FIG. 31 is a side elevational view of an even further embodiment of the mounting unit for use with the trolling motor device according to the present invention.

FIG. 32 is a side elevational view of another further embodiment of the trolling motor device according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A preferred embodiment of the trolling motor device 10 according to the present invention is shown in FIGS. 1-4.

The trolling motor device 10 includes a mounting unit 12 connected to a drive unit 14 by a pivotable connection 16. The mounting unit 12 includes a mounting plate 12a having a pair of inwardly extending flanges 12b to be secured by fasteners 18 (e.g. stainless or brass screws) to an upper surface of the deck 20 of the boat 22.

The drive unit 14 includes an upper steering unit 24 connected to an upper end of drive unit housing 26, and a lower drive unit 28 connected to a lower end of the drive unit housing 26. The upper steering unit 24 includes a rack and pinion arrangement for mechanically rotating the drive unit housing 26b, 26d for steering the boat 22. The lower drive unit 28 is fitted with a propeller 30, and includes an electric drive motor (e.g. 12 volt, 24 volt, 36 volt DC electric motor) for rotating or driving the propeller 30.

The trolling motor device 10 includes a boat battery 32 electrically connected to a foot pedal control unit 34. The foot pedal control unit 34 is electrically connected to the drive unit 14, in particular the upper power steering unit 24, by control cable 36. The foot pedal control unit 34 is configured to control the on/off, speed and polarity (i.e. forward or reverse) of the lower drive unit 28, and for also controlling the upper steering unit 24 for steering the boat 22.

The detail construction of the trolling motor device 10 according to the present invention is shown if FIGS. 3 and 4.

The drive unit 14 includes an upper drive unit housing sleeve 26a. An upper drive unit housing 26b is rotatably disposed and retained within the upper drive unit housing sleeve 26a. The upper end of the upper drive unit housing 26b includes an extension 27 accommodating a gear 42 (FIG. 3). The control cable 36 includes a steering cable 44 having an end fitted with a rack 46 providing a rack and pinion arrangement with gear 42. The foot pedal control unit 34 moves the steering cable 36 back and forth, and in turn moves the rack 46 back and forth acting on the gear 42 to rotate the upper drive unit housing 26b for steering the drive unit 14 by use of the foot pedal control unit 34.

The control cable 36 contains electrical wires 48a, 48b, 48c, extending between the foot pedal control unit 34 and the upper steering unit 24. The electrical wires 48a, 48b, 48c are contained within a drive unit electrical cable 50 (i.e. power cable), which extends from the upper steering unit 24 through the drive unit housing 26 to the lower drive unit 28. The drive unit electrical cable 50 is preferably coiled to be extendable and retractable to change length to accommodate the change of length of the drive unit housing 26 (i.e. lower drive unit housing 26d retracting into upper drive unit housing 26b).

As shown in FIG. 1, the upper drive unit housing 26b is provided with a sealing plate 52, elastrometric seal 54 and cable fastener 56 for sealing and anchoring the upper end of the drive unit electrical cable 50 within the drive unit housing 26. The lower drive unit housing 26d is provided with a sealing plate 58, elastrometric seal 60 and a cable fastener 62 for sealing and anchoring a lower end of the drive unit power cable 50 within the lower drive unit housing 26d. The sealing plate 58 is located so as to provide a cavity 64 for accommodating the drive unit electrical cable 50 when the lower drive unit housing 26b is fully retracted into the upper drive unit housing 26a.

The lower drive unit housing 26d can be extended/retracted or otherwise telescoped from the upper drive unit housing 26b by manually or powered actuation. A variety of examples for telescoping the lower drive unit housing 26d in and out of the upper drive unit housing 26b are shown in FIGS. 5-10.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the drive unit housing 126 is hydraulic actuated to drive the lower drive unit-housing 126d into and out of the upper drive unit housing 126b. A hydraulic pump 170 is supplied with hydraulic fluid from reservoir 172. A hydraulic control unit 174 is connected between supply/return lines 176, 178 for controlling the upward and downward movement of the lower drive unit housing 126d in and out of the upper drive unit housing 126b.

In the embodiments shown in FIG. 6, the drive unit housing 226 is pneumatically actuated. An air compressor 280 is connected to pneumatic control unit 282 by a high-pressure line 284. The pneumatic control unit 282 is connected to the drive unit housing 226 by supply/return lines 286, 288.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the drive unit housing 326 is actuated by a separate powered actuator 390. The powered actuator 390 can be a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, an electric actuator, or electromagnetic actuator. Further, the powered actuator 390 is shown disposed within the drive unit housing 326, however, alternatively the actuator 390 can be located outside or as a part of the drive unit housing 326 itself.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the upper drive unit housing 426b is provided with a pinion 492 cooperating with a rack 494 provided on the lower drive unit housing 426d. The pinion 492 can be manually actuated or powered actuated directly or remotely.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the upper drive unit housing 526b is provided with a worm gear drive 596 and the lower drive unit housing 526d is provided with a rack 598. The worm gear drive 596 can be manually or power actuated directly or remotely.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, a cable 671 is connected at its lower end to the lower drive unit housing 626d, and extends upwardly through the upper drive unit housing 626b. An upper end of the cable 671 is provided with a handle 673 to raise and lower the lower drive unit housing 626d within the upper drive unit housing 626b.

Another preferred embodiment of the trolling motor device 710 is shown in FIGS. 11-22. In this embodiment, the upper steering unit 24 (FIG. 1) is eliminated by combining and integrating the upper steering unit into the mounting unit 12 (FIG. 1), preferably in the mounting bracket 712d resulting in the arrangement shown in FIG. 11.

The trolling motor device 710 includes a mounting unit 712 connected to a drive unit 714 by a pivotable connection 716 (716a, 716b, 716c, 716d). The mounting unit 712 includes a mounting plate 712a having a pair of inwardly extending flanges 712b to be secured by fasteners 718 (e.g. stainless or brass screws) to an upper surface of the deck 720 of the boat 722.

The drive unit 714 includes a mounting bracket 712d connected to an upper end of the drive unit housing 726, and a lower drive unit 728 connected to a lower end of the drive unit housing 726. The mounting bracket 712d includes a rack and pinion arrangement for mechanically rotating the drive unit housing 726 for steering the boat 722. The lower drive unit 728 is fitted with a propeller 130, and includes an electric drive motor (e.g. 12 volt, 24 volt, 36 volt DC electric motor) for rotating or driving the propeller 730.

The trolling motor device 710 includes a boat battery 732 electrically connected to a foot pedal control unit 734. The foot pedal control unit 734 is mechanically and electrically connected to the drive unit 714 by control cable 736. The foot pedal control unit 734 is configured to control the on/off, speed and polarity (i.e. forward or reverse) of the lower drive unit 728, and for also controlling the steering unit contained in the mounting bracket 712d for steering the boat 722.

The detail construction of the trolling motor device 710 according to the present invention is similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, however, the upper steering unit 724 (FIGS. 3 and 4) is integrated into the mounting bracket 712d (FIG. 11).

The drive unit 114 including an upper drive housing sleeve 726a connected to the mounting bracket 712d. A rotatable upper drive unit housing 726b is disposed within the upper drive housing sleeve 726a. The upper drive unit housing 726b is rotatable relative to the upper drive unit-housing sleeve 726; however, the upper drive unit housing 726b is secured (e.g. snap ring, set screw) within the upper drive unit housing sleeve 726a from movement up or down. The upper end of the upper drive unit housing 726b includes an extension 727 accommodating a gear 742 (FIG. 22). The control cable 736 includes a cable section 712 having an end fitted with a rack 746 providing a rack and pinion arrangement with gear 742. The foot pedal control unit 734 moves the cable section 712 back and forth, and in turn moves the rack 746 back and forth acting on the gear 742 to rotate the upper drive unit housing 726b for steering the drive unit 714 by use of the foot pedal control unit 734.

The control cable 736 contains separate wires 748a, 748b, 748c (FIG. 22) extending between the foot pedal control unit 7134 and the mounting bracket upper steering unit 724. The electrical wires 748a, 748b, 748c are contained within an electrical cable 750, which extends through the control cable 736 extending between the foot control unit 734 and the mounting unit 712, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. The electrical cable 750 separates from the control cable 736 within the mounting unit 712 (FIG. 12), and is directed into and through the upper bracket support arm 712b, and then into the mounting bracket 712d (FIG. 22). The electrical cable 750 is flexible enough to withstand substantial bending when the upper bracket support arm 712b is rotated approximately one hundred eighty degrees (180°) when the drive unit 714 is rotated back-and-forth between the raised stowed position and the lowered operational position.

The electrical cable 750 is preferably coiled (FIG. 22) at a position between the upper bracket support arm 712b and the mounting bracket 712d to accommodate a change in angle between the mounting bracket 712d relative to the upper bracket support arm 712b as the drive unit 714 is rotated between the raised stowed position and the lower operational position. Specifically, the mounting bracket 712d rotates approximately ninety degrees (90°) relative to the upper bracket support arm 712b when rotating the drive unit 714 between the upper stowed position to the lower operational position.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the drive unit housing 724 has the same or similar construction to the drive unit housing 24 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4.

The lower drive unit housing 726d can be extended/retracted or otherwise telescoped from the upper drive unit housing 726b by manual or power actuation. A variety of examples for telescoping the lower drive unit housing 726d in and out of the upper drive unit housing 726b can be utilized the same or similar to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 5-10.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11-22, the steering cable is configured to connect up when the drive unit 714 is rotated down to the lowered operation position, and disconnects when the drive unit 714 is rotated up to the raised stowed position. This arrangement allows for rotation of the drive unit 714 without breaking or damaging the steering cable. Specifically, the steering cable includes two steering cable sections 800 and 802 (FIGS. 17-20), which become mechanically coupled when the drive unit 714 is rotated into the lowered operational position, and become uncoupled when the drive unit 714 is raised to the upper stowed position. Other arrangements are possible so the steering cable remain coupled irregardless of rotational position of the drive unit 714 by use of a special mechanical coupler configured to accommodate angular rotation or misalignment of the steering cable (e.g. pivots, shafts, bell cranks, levers, linkage, and other mechanical components). Preferably, the electrical cable 750 is configured to remain connected irregardless of position to eliminate the need for any electrical contacts subject to the environmental corrosion, and to prevent electrical shorting or shocking; however, such an electrical connect/disconnect arrangement is possible.

In the arrangement shown in FIG. 12, the control cable 736 is a combined cable, and includes the steering cable section 800 and the electrical cable 750 (FIG. 21), which separate apart within the mounting unit 712. The steering cable section 800 is configured or designed to couple and uncouple with steering cable section 802. Specifically, the steering cable section 800 is coupled when the mounting bracket 712d (FIG. 12) is fully lowered to the operating position (i.e. lower bracket support arm 712c is fully lowered onto the mounting bracket 712a), and then uncoupled when the mounting bracket 712d is lifted upwardly from the mounting bracket 712a.

The steering cable section 800 (FIG. 17) is configured to couple and uncouple with a steering cable section 802 (FIG. 18) that connects to the rack 742 cooperating with the pinion 746 (FIG. 22). The steering cable section 712 includes a sliding bracket coupler 702 having a receiving hole 704 (FIG. 18) and the steering cable section 800 includes a sliding bracket coupler 706 having a pin 708 (FIG. 17). The pin 708 of the sliding bracket coupler 706 is configured or designed to fit into the receiving hole 704 of the sliding bracket coupler 702 to mechanically couple the steering cable section 800 to the steering cable section 802.

The sliding bracket coupler 702 is slidably received within a channel 713c defined by a pair of rails 713b (FIGS. 14 and 18) provided on the lower bracket support arm 712c. The sliding bracket coupler 706 is slidably received within a channel 713a of horizontal bracket support 712e of bracket 712a (FIGS. 13 and 17). The sliding bracket couplers 702, 706 slide along the center and length of the mounting bracket 712a and overlap each other. The sliding bracket couplers 702, 706 can be made of suitable material (e.g. metal and/or plastic), and are configured (e.g. sized and shaped) to fit, slide and be contained within the channels 713a and 713b, respectively.

In FIG. 19, the sliding bracket coupler 702 is disengaged from the sliding bracket coupler 706 due to the lower bracket support arm 712c being slightly raised above the horizontal bracket support 712e when the drive unit 714 is rotated upwardly to the raised stowed position In FIG. 19, the sliding bracket coupler 702 is engaged with the sliding bracket coupler 706 due to the lower bracket support arm 712c being lowered onto the horizontal bracket support 712e. In this manner the steering cable section 800 is coupled and uncoupled from the steering cable section 802 based on the position of the lower bracket arm 712c verses the horizontal bracket support 712e. Again, when the drive unit 714 is fully lowered to its operational position, the steering cable sections 800, 802 are coupled together, and when the drive unit 714 is tilted and lifted from the mounting bracket 712a, the steering cable section 802 becomes uncoupled from the steering cable section 800.

When the sliding bracket coupler 702 is lowered onto the sliding bracket coupler 706 there may exist some slight misalignment between the pin 708 of the sliding bracket coupler 706 and the receiving hole 704 of the sliding bracket coupler 702. The pin 708 and receiving hole 708 can be designed to accommodate some misalignment (e.g. self-aligning pin with round head and self-aligning receiving hole with beveled inlet). Alternatively, the trolling motor device 710 can be configured to automatically align the pin 708 with receiving hole 708 when the drive unit 714 is being lowered onto the mounting bracket 712a. Further, if there is any misalignment between the pin 708 and receiving hole 708, then the user can move the foot pedal 734 back-and-forth slightly until the pin 708 aligns with the receiving hole 708.

In a preferred embodiment of the trolling motor device 10, shown in FIG. 1, the trolling motor device 10 including a “break-away steering” feature exhibited in FIGS. 23 and 24.

The break-away steering feature accommodates the situation when the lower end of the drive unit 26 encounters a submerged object, in particular when the front end of the electric motor 28 encounters a submerged object so as to prevent damage or breakage of the trolling motor device 10. The break-away steering feature, for example, can be accomplished by providing a slip connection between the member 12c and the mounting unit 12d so that if a force or torque on the drive unit 26 exceeds a certain threshold, then the connection will allow slippage so that the drive unit 26 can tilt by angle ∝, as shown in FIG. 24. Specifically, the pin 16d can be replaced with a threaded bolt and knob for adjusting the degree of tightening of the mounting bracket 12d against the mounting unit 12d to adjust the threshold level for slippage. The support member 12c is provided with a slot instead of a through hole so that the threaded rod 16d of mounting bracket 12d can slide within the slots of the bracket 12c length wise to allow tilting of the mounting bracket 12d relative to the mounting unit 12. Alternatively, the mounting bracket 12c can be configured to slidably collapse or telescope at an adjustable threshold again to provide the break-away steering feature.

Another embodiment of the trolling motor device 10′ according to the present invention is shown in FIGS. 25 and 26.

The trolling motor device 10′ utilizes a remote control system for controlling the steering, forward/reverse, and/or power level of the trolling motor device 10′. Specifically, the remote control system 900 includes a remote control transmitter 902 and a remote control steering unit 904. This arrangement eliminates the need for a cable extending between the foot pedal 34′ and the drive unit 14′. The remote control system 900 can be configured to only control the steering of the drive unit 14′ or configured to only control the power level (i.e. rpm) of the electric motor 28′. The remote control transmitter 90 and remote control steering unit 904 can be powered by the boat battery 38. Again, the power level of the drive unit 14′ can also be configured to be remotely controlled, or alternatively, the power level control is still hard wired between the foot petal 34′ and the drive unit 14′ with only remote control steering.

Another embodiment of the mounting unit 712′ according to the present invention is shown in FIG. 27. In this embodiment, the steering/power cable 736′ is passed through the lower support bracket 712c′ instead of the upper support bracket 17b′ for connecting the foot pedal (not shown) to the drive unit (not shown).

A further embodiment of the trolling motor device 1010 according to the present invention is shown in FIG. 28.

In this embodiment, the telescoping drive unit 1026 is configured so that the upper telescoping cylinder 1026a moves in and out or otherwise telescopes from the lower telescoping section 1026d the opposite of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1. This is an alternative arrangement with regards to the telescoping configuration. The telescoping sections 1026a, 1026d can have a specific traverse cross-sectional shape (e.g. triangular, square, pentagon, hexagon, octagon) so that the telescoping sections 1026a, 1026d turn together as a unit (i.e. locked angularly) while still allowing telescoping there between.

Another further embodiment of the trolling motor device 1110 according to the present invention is shown in FIGS. 29 and 30.

The trolling motor device 1110 is provided with an adjustable height locking mechanism 1150 for adjusting the extended length of the drive unit 1114. The locking mechanism 1150 includes a movable pin 1152 provided with a washer/stop 1154 and a coil spring 1154 to bias the locking pin 1152 against the telescoping section 1126d. The locking pin 1152 cooperates with one of a plurality of circumferential grooves 1156a-f provided in the outer surface of the telescoping section 1126d.

The locking mechanism 1150 includes a pivoting lever or bell crank 1160 pivotably connected and supported by a support arm 1161 connected to the drive unit section 1126. A push rod or lanyard 1162 is pivotably connected to one end of the bell crank 1160 as shown. The opposite end of the bell crank 1160 is pivotably connected to the locking pin 1152. When the push rod or lanyard 1152 is pulled upwardly, the locking pin 1152 is retracted from the groove 1158d in the surface of the telescoping section 1126d to allow the telescoping section 1162d to slide upwardly or downwardly depending on the adjustment to be made in the height of the drive unit 1114. The push rod or lanyard 1162 is provided with a handle 1164 to actuate the push rod or lanyard 1162.

The trolling motor device 1110 is also provided with another handle 1168 and cable or cord 1170 to lift up the lower portion of the drive unit 1114 when conducting the height adjustment with the locking mechanism 1150. For example, the locking mechanism 1150 is actuated by pulling upward on the handle 1164 to release the locking pin 1152, and then the height of the lower portion of the drive unit 1114 is adjusted in the water by pulling or releasing the handle 1168 of the cable or cord 1170. When the height of the lower portion of the drive unit 1114 is selected, the user then releases the handle 1164 to allow the locking pin to connect with the particular groove 1158 a-f of the telescoping section 1126d to again lock or fix the length of the drive unit 1114 at a desired depth of the motor 1128 in the water.

A further embodiment of the mounting unit 712′ is shown in FIG. 31.

The mounting unit 712′ is provided with a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder 780′ to partially or fully assist the movement of the drive unit (not shown) in and out of the water. Specifically, the cylinder 780′ can help raise or lower the drive unit by powering the mounting unit 712′. For example, the cylinder 780′ is connected by an arm 782′ (i.e. rigid connection) to the upper support arm 712b′. Alternatively, the cylinder 780′ can be replaced by an electrical or mechanical actuator. In a preferred embodiment, the actuator 780′ is remotely controlled or controlled by the foot pedal (not shown) to provide assisted or hands free movement or transfer the drive unit in and out of the water.

Another further embodiment of the trolling motor device 1210 according to the present invention is shown in FIG. 32.

In the trolling motor device 1210 shown in FIG. 32, the drive unit is raised and lowered by a jack plate 1290 connected to the mounting bracket 1212d of the drive unit 1214. For example, the mounting unit 1212d is moved upwardly and downwardly on the jack plate 1290 by use of an actuator (e.g. hydraulic, pneumatic, electromagnetic, electric, mechanical or other type of actuator). The jack plate 1290 eliminates the need for a telescoping drive unit assembly. Alternatively, the jack plate 1290 can be combined with the telescoping assembly (see embodiment of FIG. 1) to substantially extend the range of distance of upward and downward movement of the motor 1228 into and out of the water.

Claims

1. A trolling motor device for a boat configured for propelling and steering the boat on water, said device comprising:

a mounting unit configured to connect to the bow of the boat, said mounting unit including a steering unit;

a drive unit connected to said steering unit of said mounting unit, said drive unit including:

a drive unit housing, said drive unit housing including an upper end connected to said drive unit of said mounting unit;

a lower drive unit connected to a lower end of said drive unit housing, said lower drive unit including an electrical motor driving a propeller, said drive unit being configured to substantially change in length between a fully extended position and a fully retracted position;

an adjustable length drive unit power cable extending between said steering unit and said lower drive unit and accommodated within said drive unit housing;

a foot pedal control unit mechanically and electrically connected by a control cable to said steering unit of said mounting unit, said foot pedal control unit configured to steer said drive unit and control electrical power to said lower drive unit;

a pivotal connection provided between said bow mounting unit and said drive unit, said pivotal connection configured to allow said fully collapsed drive unit to pivot between a fully raised resting position on a deck of the boat to a fully down operational position;

an actuating device configured to fully extend and retract said drive unit; and

a boat battery electrically connected to said foot pedal control unit to supply power to said drive unit.

2. A trolling motor device for a boat configured for propelling and steering the boat on water, said device comprising:

a mounting unit configured to connect to the boat, said bow mounting unit including a steering unit;

a drive unit including a lower drive unit, said drive unit including a drive unit housing having an upper end connected to said steering unit of said mounting unit and a lower end connected to said lower drive unit, said drive unit being configured to substantially change in length between a fully extended position and a fully retracted position while being rotated;

a pivotal connection provided between said bow mounting unit and said drive unit; and

a manually operated drive unit actuating device configured to manually extend and retract said drive unit.

3. A trolling motor device for a boat configured for propelling and steering the boat on water, said device comprising:

a mounting unit configured to connect to the boat, said bow mounting unit including a steering unit;

a drive unit including a lower drive unit, said drive unit including a drive unit housing having an upper end connected to said steering unit of said mounting unit and a lower end connected to said lower drive unit, said drive unit being configured to substantially change in length between a fully extended position and a fully retracted position;

a pivotal connection provided between said bow mounting unit and said drive unit, said pivotal connection configured to pivot said drive unit between a fully raised resting position on a deck of the boat to a fully down position;

a powered drive unit housing actuating device configured to fully extend or fully retract said drive unit; and

a control unit connected to said powered drive unit housing to extend and retract said lower drive unit housing unit into said upper drive unit housing unit.

4. A device according to claim 1, including an electrically actuated and controlled trim mechanism configured to selectively adjust the height of said lower drive unit once said drive unit is placed in its fully extended position.

5. A device according to claim 1, wherein said drive unit housing is a shaft.

6. A device according to claim 1, wherein said drive unit housing is configured to be extended or retract to extend and retract said drive unit.

7. A device according to claim 6, wherein said drive unit housing includes an upper larger diameter shaft and a lower smaller diameter shaft slidably disposed within said upper larger diameter shaft.

8. A device according to claim 1, wherein said drive unit and mounting unit are configured to simultaneously extend/retract said drive unit while rotating said drive unit.

9. A device according to claim 1, wherein said actuating device is a manually operated actuating device.

10. A device according to claim 9, wherein said actuating device is a cable.

11. A device according to claim 9, wherein said actuating device is a cord.

12. A device according to claim 1, wherein said actuating device is a powered actuating device.

13. A device according to claim 12, wherein said actuating device is a hydraulic actuator.

14. A device according to claim 12, wherein said actuating device is a pneumatic actuator.

15. A device according to claim 12, wherein said actuating device is an electric actuator.

16. A device according to claim 12, wherein said actuating device is an electromechanical actuator.

17. A device according to claim 12, wherein said actuating device is a separate powered actuating device.

18. A device according to claim 12, wherein a lower end of said cord is connected to said lower drive unit housing and an upper end of said cord is connected to a handle for raising and lowering said lower drive unit housing into and out of said upper drive unit housing.

19. A device according to claim 17, wherein said cord is disposed with in said drive unit housing.

20. A device according to claim 18, wherein said cord is located outside said drive unit housing.