SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATING LINE RETRACTION ON A REEL

Abstract

A system and method are disclosed for automating extension and/or retraction of a line on a spool. The system detachably couples a spool of line to an automated winding portion such as a power drill, extends the line out from the spool in some embodiments, positions a distal end of the line at a desired position, performs an operation with the line, and automatically retracts the line. A winding portion, such as an electric drill, couples to a mounting end of a spool of line. The winding portion receives power from a power source and actuates to rotate the spool in a first direction for extending the line, and a second direction for retracting the line. A distal end of the line positions at a desired point away from the spool. An operation is performed with the line in conjunction with automated extension and retraction of the line. Finally, the winding portion powers refraction of the line back onto the spool.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to an automated rotary system, and more particularly relates to a method for powering the rotation of a spool of line to automatically extend and retract the line.

BACKGROUND

Description of the Related Art

The following background information may present examples of specific aspects of the prior art (e.g., without limitation, approaches, facts, or common wisdom) that, while expected to be helpful to further educate the reader as to additional aspects of the prior art, is not to be construed as limiting the present invention, or any embodiments thereof, to anything stated or implied therein or inferred thereupon.

An aspect of the prior art generally useful is that a spool is a usually low-flanged or unflanged cylinder on which thread, wire, cable, paper, film, straps, or tape is wound for distribution or use. In many instances, a cable reel is a round, drum-shaped object used to carry various types of electrical wires. Cable reels are used to transport electric cables, fiber optic cables and wire products.

Typically, a chalk line is a tool for marking long, straight lines on relatively flat surfaces, much farther than is practical by hand or with a straightedge. Often, a fishing reel is a cylindrical device attached to a fishing rod used in winding and stowing line. Modern fishing reels usually have fittings aiding in casting for distance and accuracy, as well as retrieving line.

Often, extending or rerating a line on a spool or reel is physically overwhelming due to the distance that the line must be retracted, and the weight of the line. Manually cranking the spool to wind up the line is time consuming and difficult. Also, during the operation of the line, winding or unwinding the line may be necessary. This may cause a user to lose focus on the operation on hand while trying to simultaneously wind the line onto the spool.

In view of the foregoing, it is clear that these traditional winding systems and methods for a line are not perfect and leave room for more optimal approaches.

SUMMARY

From the foregoing discussion, it should be apparent that a need exists for a system and method for automating a rotary system to drive a line by retraction and extension prior to, during, and after performing an operation with the line. Beneficially, such a system and method would provide a plurality of features and components efficacious for automatically extending a line to positioning a distal end of the line at a fixed point, and then automatically retracting the line back onto a spool after the operation is complete.

The present invention has been developed in response to the present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet been fully solved by currently available system. Accordingly, the present invention has been developed to provide a system and method for automating a rotary system to extend and retract the line in relation to a spool that overcomes many or all of the above-discussed shortcomings in the art.

The rotary system includes a plurality of modules configured to functionally execute the necessary steps of detachably coupling a spool of line to an automated winding portion, automatically extending the line out from the spool, positioning a distal end of the line at a desired fixed point, performing an operation with the line, and finally automatically retracting the line to be wound back onto the spool. In this manner, the distal end of the line may be automatically extended and positioned at a desired position for performing an operation, including, without limitation, forming a linear mark on a surface, forming a pattern on a surface, forming a boundary, forming a contour for tracing a linear shape, measuring a distance, creating a line tension for catching an object, and pulling an object towards the spool. After performing the operation from the extended position, an automated winding portion, which is coupled to the spool, rotates the spool to retract the line back onto the spool. In some embodiments, the rotary system extends and retracts the line from a spool that couples to an automated winding portion. The rotary system automatically drives the line about the spool with minimal manual labor. This is advantageous for heavy lines and lines that are extended over large distances. The line is driven in relation to the spool. The line is adapted to be wound and unwound onto an axial rod that is centrally located on the spool. A distal end of the line may be extended and affixed to a desired point away from the spool for performing the operation. The distal end may then be retracted by the winding portion automatically winding the spool.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the spool is operable to receive and release the line by automated winding. The spool may include a low-flanged or unflanged cylinder on which thread, wire, cable, paper, film, straps, or tape that is wound for distribution or use. In one embodiment, the spool is disposed between two integrally formed flanged ends. A spool handle end forms one end of the spool. A handle extends from the spool handle end of the spool to provide a grip for enhancing stability during operation and transporting the rotary system. A spool mounting end forms the other side of the spool. The spool mounting end may include a mounting protrusion configured to couple with the winding portion, whereby the winding portion couples to the spool mounting end to rotate the spool. Those skilled in the art, in light of the present teachings, will recognize that the winding portion may rotate the spool at variable angular velocities and torques, depending on the requirements of the operation. In some embodiments, the spool includes an axial rod disposed to extend between the spool handle end and the spool mounting end. The axial rod is configured to join with a proximal end of the line and carry the line during extension and retraction. The axial rod may include protrusions and indentations for providing a receptive surface for the line to be wound.

In some embodiments, a winding portion couples to a spool mounting end of the spool, creating an integrally formed rotary system. The winding portion is configured to rotate the spool with minimal manual labor. The winding portion may include, without limitation, an electrical drill, a mechanical rotary system, and a motor. The winding portion includes a winding portion mounting end for coupling to the spool mounting end. The winding portion further comprises a winding portion handle end for joining with a power source and providing a grip to control the winding portion. A power source provides power to actuate the winding portion. The power source may include an external power source that attaches to the winding portion through a cable, or an internal power source, such as a battery. In one alternative embodiment, a solar panel recharges the battery when the device is not operating. In some embodiments, a guiding portion positions on the spool to help guide the line during extension and retraction, and also to provide tension on the line during retraction for an even winding.

A method of the present invention is also presented for automating a rotary system to extend and retract a line. The method in the disclosed embodiments substantially includes the steps necessary to carry out the functions presented above with respect to the operation of the described system. In one embodiment, the method includes an initial Step of coupling a winding portion to the spool. The winding portion couples to the spool to rotate the spool, thereby extending and retracting the line. A winding portion mounting end may include a socket that couples with a spool mounting end, such as a hexagonal nut. However, the coupling between the winding portion and the spool may include various means, including, without limitation, magnets, screws, clips, and rope. The handle is helpful in controlling the spool while winding. The handle, which extends from the spool handle end, is utilized as a brace to support coupling the winding portion to the spool.

The method may then proceed to a Step of providing power to the winding portion. The power allows the winding portion to rotate, and provides the winding portion with sufficient angular displacement and torque to rotate the attached spool. In one embodiment, the winding portion may include an electrical drill having a portable power source, such as a battery. However, the winding portion may include any automated device operable to manipulate the spool for extending and retracting the line.

In some embodiments, the method includes a Step of loading the spool with the line either automatically through the winding portion, or manually. The spool may include an axial rod that attaches to the line and rotatably winds to receive and carry the line. A proximal end of the line attaches to the axial rod. The handle, which extends from the spool handle end, is utilized as a brace to support the loading of the line onto the spool.

The method further includes a Step of extending a distal end of the line to a desired position. The line may be extended manually or by powering the winding portion to rotate in a first direction. Those skilled in the art will recognize that extending the line requires creating a tension on the line. The distal point may be affixed to the desired position as the winding portion draws away, or the distal end may be pulled from the spool directly.

An additional Step may include performing an operation with the line. The distal end of the line may be extended and positioned at a desired point for performing a desired operation, including, without limitation, forming a linear mark on a surface, forming a pattern on a surface, forming a boundary, measuring a distance, and creating a line tension for catching an object. The line may be automatically extended and retracted while the operation is performed. In this manner, a user may focus on the operation at hand without having to manually extend and retract the line. For example, without limitation, the line may be operable to draw straight lines by the action of a taut nylon string. The string, which, previously impregnated or coated with a loose dye such as chalk, is laid across a surface to be marked and pulled tight by retracting the line until it is taut. The string is then plucked or snapped sharply to cause the string to strike the surface, transferring the chalk to the surface along that straight line. In yet another operation, the line may include a rigid wire that forms a contour for tracing a straight or patterned line.

The method further includes a Step of retracting the line after the operation completed. The winding portion actuates to automatically rotate in a second direction for winding the line back into the spool. A tension on the line can be created by pulling the distal end, or allowing the line to engage the guiding portion during retraction for an even winding operation. In some embodiments, the winding portion handle end is helpful in controlling the orientation of the rotary system and angular displacement and torque of the rotation.

Reference throughout this specification to features, advantages, or similar language does not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized with the present invention should be or are in any single embodiment of the invention. Rather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, discussion of the features and advantages, and similar language, throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.

Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the invention may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments of the invention.

These features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order that the advantages of the invention will be readily understood, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an embodiment of a spool coupled with an embodiment of a winding portion, in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating an embodiment of a spool, in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a process flow chart of a method of receiving incentive to exceed minimal purchases in accordance with the present invention; and

FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating an embodiment of a spool, in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided, such as examples of programming, software modules, user selections, network transactions, database queries, database structures, hardware modules, hardware circuits, hardware chips, etc., to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the invention may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.

The schematic flow chart diagrams included herein are generally set forth as logical flow chart diagrams. As such, the depicted order and labeled steps are indicative of one embodiment of the presented method. Other steps and methods may be conceived that are equivalent in function, logic, or effect to one or more steps, or portions thereof, of the illustrated method. Additionally, the format and symbols employed are provided to explain the logical steps of the method and are understood not to limit the scope of the method. Although various arrow types and line types may be employed in the flow chart diagrams, they are understood not to limit the scope of the corresponding method. Indeed, some arrows or other connectors may be used to indicate only the logical flow of the method. For instance, an arrow may indicate a waiting or monitoring period of unspecified duration between enumerated steps of the depicted method. Additionally, the order in which a particular method occurs may or may not strictly adhere to the order of the corresponding steps shown.

FIG. 1 depicts rotary system 100 for automating the refraction and extension of a line 104. The rotary system 100 is operable to couple to the spool, and automatically drive the line 104 about the spool 102 with minimal manual labor. This is advantageous for lines 104 that are extended over large distances and heavy lines 104. The line 104 is driven in relation to the spool 102. The line 104 is adapted to be wound and unwound onto an axial rod 204 that is centrally located on the spool 102. A proximal end 122 of the line 104 attaches to the axial rod 204. A distal end 120 of the line 104 may be extended and affixed to a desired point away from the spool 102 for performing an operation. The distal end 120 of the line 104 may then be retracted by automatically winding the line 104 onto the spool 102. The line 104 may include, without limitation, a string, a wire, a rope, a cable, a thread, a tape, and a strap. The line 104 may be configured to perform an operation simultaneous with automatic extension and retraction.

In one embodiment of the present invention referenced in FIG. 2, the spool 102 is operable to receive and release the line 104 by automated winding. The spool 102 may include a low-flanged or unflanged cylinder on which the line 104 is wound for distribution or use. In one embodiment, the spool 102 is disposed between two integrally formed flanged ends. A spool handle end 106 forms one end of the spool 102. A handle 108 extends from the spool handle end 106 of the spool 102 to provide a grip for enhancing stability during operation and transportation of the rotary system 100. A spool mounting end 110 forms the other side of the spool 102. The spool mounting end 110 may include a mounting protrusion 202 configured to couple with the winding portion 112, whereby the winding portion 112 couples to the spool mounting end 110 to rotate the spool 102 for extending and retracting the line 104. In one alternative embodiment, the spool 102 comprises an external sleeve for at least partially receiving the spool 102. The external sleeve may help protect the line 104 from external elements.

In some embodiments, the spool 102 includes an axial rod 204 disposed to extend between the spool handle end 106 and the spool mounting end 110. The axial rod 204 is configured to join with a proximal end 122 of the line 104 and carry the line 104 during extension and retraction. The axial rod 204 may include protrusions and indentations for providing a receptive surface for the line 104 to be wound. For example, without limitation, a pin from the proximal end 122 inserts inside an aperture in the axial rod 204. A hook in the aperture retains the line 104 and thus allows, with the rotation of the axial rod 204, the winding of the line 104. Suitable materials for the axial rod 204 may include, without limitation, a high density polymer, metal, alloys, fiberglass, and wood.

Those skilled in the art, in light of the present teachings, will recognize that the winding portion 112 may rotate the spool 102 at variable angular displacements and torques, depending on the requirements of the operation. The angular displacement of the winding portion 112 is the angle in radians through which a point on the spool 102 has been rotated about the axial rod 204. The point moves in a circle of radius r. Having moved an arc length s, the angular position of the spool 102 is θ relative to its original position, where θ=s/r. The winding portion 112 also requires sufficient torque to retract the line 104 against a resistance. Those skilled in the art will recognize that Torque, τ is the twisting effect of a force F applied to the rotating spool 102, which is at position r from the axial rod 204. Mathematically, τ=r×F.

In some embodiments, the winding portion 112 couples to a spool mounting end 110 of the spool 102, creating an integrally formed rotary system 100. The winding portion 112 is configured to rotate the spool 102 with minimal manual labor. This is advantageous for lines 104 that extend large distances, and heavy lines 104. The winding portion 112 may include, without limitation, an electrical drill, a mechanical rotary device, and a motor. The winding portion 112 includes a winding portion mounting end 114 for coupling to the spool mounting end 110. In one embodiment, the winding portion mounting end 114 may include socket configured to couple with the spool mounting end 110. However, in other embodiments, the winding portion mounting end 114 may couple to the spool mounting end 110 through other means, including, without limitation, magnets, screws, clips, bolts, and adhesives. The winding portion 112 further comprises a winding portion handle end 116 for joining with a power source 118 and providing a grip to control the winding portion 112. The power source 118 provides power to actuate the winding portion 112. The power source 118 may include an external power source that attaches to the winding portion 112 through a cable, or an internal power source, such as a battery that couples to the winding portion handle end 116. In some embodiments, a guiding portion positions on the spool 102 to help guide the line 104 during extension and refraction, and also to provide tension on the line 104 during retraction for an even winding. In one alternative embodiment, a solar panel recharges the power source 118 when the rotary system 100 is not operating.

In various embodiments of the present invention, the rotary system, or reel or spool, may be unwound by hand without the use of a powered device.

In one alternative embodiment, the rotary system 100 may include a plurality of spools that work together in a pulley configuration to changes the direction or magnitude of a force, such as the weight of the line 104 or line tension. In yet another alternative embodiment, the spool 102 may comprise additional shapes, such as an oval, a square, and a triangle. In another alternative embodiment, the rotary system 100 may be utilized in conjunction with a fishing rod to help reel in fish, whereby the winding portion may couple to the fishing reel. In yet another alternative embodiment, the rotary system 100 may be incorporated in a variety of rotary devices, including, without limitation, a sewing bobbin, a camera film rotation, and electronic equipment. In yet another alternative embodiment, the rotary system 100 may be utilized to help lay out telephone wire across large distances.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a process flow chart of a method 300 of automating the extension and refraction of a line 104 in accordance with the present invention. The method 300 in the disclosed embodiments substantially includes the steps necessary to carry out the functions presented above with respect to the operation of the described rotary system 100. In one embodiment, the method includes an initial Step 302 of coupling the winding portion 112 to the spool 102. The winding portion 112 couples to the spool 102 to rotate the spool 102, thereby extending and retracting the line 104. A winding portion mounting end 114 may include a socket that couples with a spool mounting end 110, such as a hexagonal nut. However, the coupling between the winding portion 112 and the spool 102 may include various means, including, without limitation, magnets, screws, clips, and rope. The handle 108 is helpful in controlling the spool 102 while winding the line 104. The handle 108, which extends from the spool handle end 106, is also utilized as a brace to support coupling the winding portion 112 to the spool 102.

The method may then proceed to a Step 304 of providing power to the winding portion 112. The power allows the winding portion 112 to rotate, and provides the winding portion 112 with sufficient angular displacement and torque to rotate the attached spool 102. In one embodiment, the winding portion 112 may include an electrical drill having a portable power source 118, such as a battery. However, the winding portion 112 may include any automated device operable to manipulate the spool 102 for extending and retracting the line 104.

In some embodiments, the method includes a Step 306 of loading the spool 102 with the line 104 either automatically through the winding portion 112, or manually. The spool 102 may include an axial rod 204 that attaches to the line 104 and rotatably winds to receive and carry the line 104. A proximal end 122 of the line 104 attaches to the axial rod 204. The handle 108, which extends from the spool handle end 106, is utilized as a brace to support the loading of the line 104.

The method further includes a Step 308 of extending a distal end 120 of the line 104 to a desired point. The line 104 may be extended manually or by powering the winding portion 112 to rotate in a first direction. Those skilled in the art will recognize that extending the line 104 requires creating a tension on the line 104. The distal point may be affixed to the desired position as the winding portion 112 draws away, or the distal end 120 may be pulled from the spool 102 directly.

An additional Step 310 may include performing an operation with the line 104. The distal end 120 of the line 104 may be extended and positioned at a desired point for performing a desired operation, including, without limitation, forming a linear mark on a surface, forming a pattern on a surface, forming a boundary, measuring a distance, and creating a line tension for catching an object. The line 104 may be automatically extended and retracted while the operation is performed. In this manner, a user may focus on the operation at hand without having to manually extend and retract the line 104. For example, without limitation, the line 104 may be operable to draw straight lines by the action of a taut nylon string. The string, which is coated with a loose dye such as chalk, is laid across a surface to be marked and pulled tight by retracting the line 104 until it is taut. The string is then plucked or snapped sharply to cause the string to strike the surface, transferring the chalk to the surface along the newly formed straight line. In yet another operation, the line 104 may include a rigid wire that forms a contour for tracing a straight or patterned line.

The method 300 may include a final Step 312 of retracting the line 104 after the desired operation with the line 104 is completed. The winding portion 112 actuates to automatically rotate in a second direction for winding the line 104 back into the spool 102. A tension on the line 104 can be created by pulling the distal end 120, or allowing the line 104 to engage the guiding portion during retraction for an even winding. In some embodiments, the winding portion handle end 116 is helpful in controlling the orientation of the rotary system 100 and angular displacement and torque of the rotation.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating an embodiment of a spool, in accordance with the present invention. This shown embodiment comprises a cantilevered handle jutting perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the shown reel for winding or distending the string by hand.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

1. A rotary device to automate the retraction of a line, the rotary device comprising:

a handheld power drill, the handheld power drill being configured to automatically rotate, the power drill further comprising a winding portion mounting end for mounting a detachable device;

a spool, the spool being configured to carry the line, the spool being disposed to detachably join with the power drill, the spool being operable to be rotated by the power drill for retracting the line, the spool comprising a spool mounting end, the spool mounting end being configured to couple to the power drill mounting end, the spool further comprising a spool handle end, the spool handle comprising a handle for helping to control the rotary device; and

a power source, the power source being operable to power the winding portion.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the line comprises a chalk line for creating a mark on a surface.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the power drill end comprises a portable power source.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the power drill end comprises a socket configured to couple with the spool mounting end.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the spool mounting end comprises a hexagonal nut configured to couple with the power drill mounting end.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the axial rod is disposed to extend between the spool handle end and the spool mounting end.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the spool comprises an external sleeve for at least partially receiving the spool.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the spool comprises a guiding portion for helping to guide the line during retraction, and for providing tension on the line during extension and retraction.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the power source comprises a portable battery.

10. The device of claim 1, further comprising a handle for manually retracting and winding line back onto the device.

11. A method for automating rotation of a line, the method comprising the steps of:

coupling a winding portion to a spool;

providing power to the winding portion;

loading the spool with a line automatically;

extending a distal end of the line from the spool automatically;

performing an operation with the line; and

retracting the line automatically.

12. The method of claim 12, wherein the step of coupling winding portion to a spool comprises detachably coupling a winding portion mounting end to a spool mounting end.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the winding portion comprises an electrical drill.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the line comprises a string.

15. The method of claim 12, wherein the step of providing power to the winding portion comprises a portable power source positioned on the winding portion mounting end.

16. The method of claim 12, wherein the step of loading the spool with a line comprises attaching a proximal end of the line with axial rod.

17. The method of claim 12, wherein the step of extending a distal end of the line from the spool comprises creating tension on the line and actuating the winding portion in a first direction to wind up the line on the spool.

18. The method of claim 12, wherein the step of retracting the line comprises actuating the winding portion in a second direction to wind up the line on the spool.