Abstract: A foot controller system includes a foot controller having a base that engages a portion of a marine vessel when the foot controller is in an operable position. The foot controller also includes a foot pedal pivotable, with respect to the base, about a first axis, and rotatable, with respect to at least a portion of the base, about a second axis different from the first axis. The foot controller controls a first aspect of a marine motor system when the foot pedal is pivoted about the first axis and controls a second aspect of the marine motor system different from the first aspect when the foot pedal is rotated about the second axis.

Abstract: A trolling motor has a steering motor transmitting torque to a steering shaft, which is coupled to a lower propulsion unit such that rotation of the steering shaft rotates the propulsion unit about a steering axis. A controller is in signal communication with the steering motor. A foot pedal in signal communication with the controller has a foot pad pivotable about a pivot axis and sends electrical steering signals to the controller (and thus steering motor) in response to pivoting of the foot pad. A variable resistance device is coupled to the foot pedal and controllable to vary resistance to pivoting of the foot pad about the pivot axis based on a position, velocity, acceleration, and/or jerk of the steering shaft. Additionally or alternatively, the variable resistance device provides haptic feedback to a user via the foot pad to inform the user about information related to the trolling motor system.

Abstract: An underwater propulsion system is disclosed comprising a foot board with one or more battery-powered propulsion units. A throttle control system may be enabled in the foot board such that a movement of the user's foot controls the throttle. Flattened Lithium batteries allow thin lightweight construction of the foot board. Use of trolling motors as propulsion units provides thrust advantages over pre-existing underwater scooters.

Abstract: A user input assembly for controlling operation of a trolling motor assembly including a propulsion motor is provided herein. The user input assembly includes a support plate and a foot pedal defining a top surface that is configured to receive a user's foot thereon. The foot pedal is pivotably mounted to the support plate. A deflection sensor is in communication with the foot pedal and is configured to detect an angle of orientation of the foot pedal and output a signal corresponding with the angle of orientation of the foot pedal. The signal is receivable by a controller that is configured to control a direction of the propulsion motor of the trolling motor assembly. A feedback device is coupled with the foot pedal and configured to, in response to pivotal movement of the foot pedal about the first axis, provide a resistance force to the pivotal movement.

Abstract: The side mounted motors are attached to the left side and the right side of the kayak. The invention further comprises a pair of unique clamps for attaching the pair of side mounted motors to the kayaks. The unique clamps are configured to adjust the side mounted motors both horizontally and vertically to regulate placement and depth of the side mounted motors. In a preferred embodiment, the clamp has inter-changeable wedges that conform to different profiles of a kayak to provide a more secure fit.

Abstract: A foot pedal device for controlling an electric steer trolling motor and navigating a marine vessel. The foot pedal allows proportional control of the vessel such that the operator's foot movement on the foot pedal is proportional to an action by the trolling motor. The foot pedal includes a platform that pivots upon a base, an angular position monitor, and a controller; the controller is communicatively coupled to the angular position monitor and is configured to receive an angular measurement from the magnetic angle sensor and generate at least one control signal for a trolling motor of a marine vessel at least partially based on the angular measurement from the sensor.

Abstract: A multiple motor control system is provided for manipulating a propulsion system consisting of electric motors mounted on a water traversing vessel or watercraft. The control system incorporates a main shaft on which the electric motors are mounted and includes a steering system for turning the motors relative to the watercraft, a lifting system for raising and lowering the electric motors relative to the surface of the water and a trim mechanism for angling the direction of thrust of the electric motors so as to trim or level out the path of the watercraft as it travels through the water.

Abstract: A user input assembly for controlling operation of a trolling motor assembly including a propulsion motor is provided herein. The user input assembly includes a support plate and a foot pedal defining a top surface that is configured to receive a user's foot thereon. The foot pedal is pivotably mounted to the support plate. A deflection sensor is in communication with the foot pedal and is configured to detect an angle of orientation of the foot pedal and output a signal corresponding with the angle of orientation of the foot pedal. The signal is receivable by a controller that is configured to control a direction of the propulsion motor of the trolling motor assembly. A feedback device is coupled with the foot pedal and configured to, in response to pivotal movement of the foot pedal about the first axis, provide a resistance force to the pivotal movement.

Abstract: A motor controller receives user input from a receiver and may change the operating mode of the motor controller according to the operating conditions of a model vehicle. In some embodiments, the user manually selects a mode of operation for the motor. In other embodiments, the operating conditions, for example the speed, power output, or other condition, may automatically trigger a transition between a first mode and a second mode of operation of the motor.

Abstract: A steering system for a trolling motor includes a mechanical steering system having a mechanical steering input device and a mechanical linkage extending from the mechanical steering input device to a steering shaft of the trolling motor. Movement of the mechanical steering input device causes movement of the mechanical linkage, which in turn causes rotation of the steering shaft. An electromechanical actuation system is provided that is configured to be coupled to the mechanical steering system. A controller is in signal communication with the electromechanical actuation system and provides steering signals thereto. The electromechanical actuation system selectively actuates the mechanical steering system so as to rotate the steering shaft according to the steering signals provided by the controller. A method for steering a trolling motor is also provided.

Abstract: A pedal control is applied to a trolling motor shaft to allow the driver of a boat to control the direction of the trolling motor from nearly any location within the boat to which the trolling motor is attached, the pedal control having a mechanical adjustable length extension rod between an adjustable height arm on the pedal and a bracket mounted to the trolling motor shaft with a universal joint applied at each end of the extension rod, allowing placement at a variety of distances and a variety of angles from the pedal on the floor of the boat to the trolling motor. A cut-off switch is optionally applied to the pivotal footplate on the pedal to turn the trolling motor on or off or remain at a constant speed.

Abstract: A boat includes a boat deck having upper and lower deck portions and a deck transition portion. A mounting base is positioned so it extends proximate to the upper and lower deck portions and the deck transition portion. A foot operated trolling motor controller is carried by the mounting base and held at a desired orientation.

Abstract: A tension sleeve system that is selectively operable to engage a trolling motor system of a watercraft. The tension sleeve system is configured to fit over the area containing the lower portion of the trolling motor's stationary shaft and the middle portion (i.e., the exposed portion) of the swivel shaft, especially in proximity to the middle bearing area between the two shafts. The tension sleeve system is selectively operable to adjust feedback on any cable operated rotational steering system by applying an appropriate amount of tension between the trolling motor's stationary shaft and the swivel shaft, thus controlling the torque and/or energy generated by the propulsion motor and propeller. Clamps or other suitable devices can be used to apply the appropriate amount of tension between the trolling motor's stationary shaft and the swivel shaft by appropriately tightening the tension sleeve members against the external surfaces of the two shafts.

Abstract: A steering system for craft turns a motor from a fixed position to a secondary position. As a result, the craft turns right or left as desired by a user of the craft. A control unit instructs the steering system to turn the craft to a desired orientation. A steering motor is activated that turns a cam attached to a shaft. The shaft is attached to the motor. The cam also includes an indent and sensors to indicate when the motor is in the fixed position or a secondary position that corresponds to a maximum angle for turning the motor. The steering system returns the motor back to the fixed position when the user indicates the steering system is to stop turning, or when the secondary position is reached. The steering system returns the motor back to the fixed position without knowledge of the user. Thus, the motor stays in one of three positions unless instructed by the control unit to turn.

Abstract: A dual propulsion steering and control system for a watercraft which utilizes simple movement of an operator's feet to independently vary thrust from a pair of propulsion units, each mounted on opposite sides of the centerline of a watercraft. By varying the amount and direction of thrust on each side, the watercraft may be steered in a multitude of directions, propelled at varying speeds, and turned completely around in a short distance.

Abstract: Operation of an electric microswitch 14 for timing or other purposes during rowing is brought about by the rower moving the heels 8 of his/her shoes 3 in opposite sideways directions transitorily. A unit 10 containing the switch 14 involves two plates 19,20 that are tied by cords 11 to the two heels 8 respectively within the foot-well 6 of the boat, so as to slide relative to one another against a spring bias when the heels 8 move apart. The microswitch 14 operates in response to the sliding to energize an LED 16 for sending a light pulse via fibre-optic cable 23 to a timing unit 24. A modified unit 10 includes a wireless transmitter 25 in place of the LED 16, and an alternative modification involves two parallel fibre-optic cables 26,27 from the unit 24 and an optical block 32.

Abstract: An improved docking system for a watercraft and a propulsion assembly therefor wherein the docking system comprises a plurality of the propulsion assemblies and wherein each propulsion assembly includes a motor and propeller assembly provided on the distal end of a steering column and each of the propulsion assemblies is attachable in an operating position such that the motor and propeller assembly thereof will extend into the water and can be turned for steering the watercraft.

Abstract: A boat including a hull and a floor positioned within the hull. A pedal mount is secured to the floor. The pedal mount defines a pedal recess sized to receive a pedal for controlling a trolling motor.

Abstract: A mounting arrangement for a boat's propulsion motor that permits steering of the boat by remote control. A preferred embodiment includes a bracket for attachment to a boat, and a steerable mounting plate to hold the motor. An orientation of the mounting plate is adjusted by an electric motor adapted to rotate a pinion gear for engagement with an arcuate rack gear. Desirably, a portable wireless control cooperates with a receiver including steering-control circuitry to effect operation of the steering motor. In one aspect of the invention, the receiver is structured for tool-free decoupling from the arrangement to provide theft security. It is also desirable to include a polarity-control circuit to resist damage to the steering-control circuitry by application of an electric power signal of improper polarity.

Abstract: A portable foot pedestal is provided for supporting a foot switch trolling motor controller for a boat. The portable foot pedestal includes a substantially planar member having an upper surface and a bottom surface for supporting the foot switch controller. A plurality of adjustable support members is provided for supporting the planar member. The support members include substantially spherical end portions for contacting a bottom surface of the boat. A plurality of fastening members is provided for coupling the planar member to the support members. The substantially planar member includes apertures for receiving the support members. The support members are individually adjustable for adjusting the height and angle of the planar member with respect to the bottom surface of the boat.

Abstract: A kit is provided permitting a retrofit conversion of an existing trolling motor to foot pedal operation.

Abstract: A foot-operated control for controlling both speed and steering of a trolling motor for a watercraft, the foot-operated control in communication with the trolling motor and comprising a base and a foot interface. The foot interface is pivotally connected at a generally central point by a pivot to the base, the pivot separating and defining a first end and second end of the foot interface, such that depressing the first end directs the trolling motor to steer the watercraft to the right and depressing the second end directs the trolling motor to steer the watercraft to the left.

Abstract: A kit for converting a conventional surfboard into a motorized one, to assist a surfer in paddling away from shore, includes a small motor attachable to the surfboard and a control remote. The electric motor is built directly into a rudder or fin, attachable to the surfboard without any structural modification to the board. The remote control is wireless and worn on the surfer's hand or wrist. With a motorized surfboard propelling the surfer forward at a low rate of speed, it is unnecessary for the surfer to exert considerable energy paddling out to catch another wave.

Abstract: A boat positioning apparatus and system are disclosed. The apparatus and system may include a boat having a hull, an outboard motor, and a thruster. The thruster has a housing that is secured to the transom to maintain a fixed position relative to the transom. The housing is disposed above a slip stream that occurs when the boat is on plane. A reversible electric motor is disposed in the housing, and a shaft passes through the housing, with propellers affixed to each end of the shaft. A switch, preferably a foot switch, is operably connected to the reversible electric motor. The reversible electric motor may be connected to the same battery used for the outboard motor. Hook and loop fasteners may be used to provide flexibility in positioning the switch in the boat. In an alternate embodiment, the boat positioning system is built into an outboard motor. In the alternate embodiment, a water intake line supplies water to a pump.

Abstract: A foot control unit for controlling the directional orientation of a trolling motor. The foot control unit includes an upper pivotal foot pedal and a lower flat base member to which the foot pedal is pivotally attached. The foot control unit further includes an offset hinge consisting of an upper hinge member pivotally attached at a first end thereof to the foot pedal and a lower hinge member pivotally attached at a first end thereof to the base member, the hinge members being pivotally attached to each other at respective ends thereof which are opposite from said first ends thereof, and a detent mounted on the offset hinge unit and responsive to a predetermined degree of pivotal movement of the upper hinge member with respect to the lower hinge member to provide a temporary stop in the pivotal movement.

Abstract: A bow mount trolling motor for a boat is disclosed. The bow mount trolling motor includes a chassis adapted to be mounted to a bow of the boat, a lower propulsion unit and at least one shaft supporting the lower propulsion unit and pivotally coupled to the chassis about a first axis. The at least one shaft pivots in a first direction about the first axis from a deployed position to a stowed position. The at least one shaft pivots in an opposite second direction about the first-axis when the at least one shaft of the lower propulsion unit encounters an obstruction while the boat is moving in a forward direction.

Abstract: The trolling motor system includes a chassis adapted to be coupled to a boat, a housing pivotally coupled to the chassis, a lower propulsion unit, at least one shaft supported by the housing and coupled to the lower propulsion unit at a first end and a drive system including at least one actuator. The at least one shaft extends along a first axis. The first end is movable relative to the housing along the first axis. The drive system includes at least one actuator, a linear drive, a pivot drive and a coupler. The linear drive moves the first end of the first shaft along the first axis while the pivot drive pivots the housing about a second axis. The coupler connects the actuator and the pivot drive to pivot the housing. In one embodiment, the coupler connects the actuator and the pivot drive based upon the position of the at least one shaft along the first axis.

Abstract: A battery gauge for an electric trolling motor is disclosed. The battery gauge includes a battery that is configured to supply power to the trolling motor. The battery gauge also includes a motor speed setting switch that is configured to supply a signal representative of the motor speed setting. The battery gauge also includes an electronic circuit configured to sense at least one battery parameter that is representative of the battery charge. The electronic circuit is also configured to receive an electrical signal that is representative of the speed setting. The electronic circuit further is configured to determine the remaining battery charge time based on the at least one battery parameter and the speed setting.

Abstract: An idle stop for a certain type of motor boat throttles. The throttles involved have a pedal pivotally mounted on a base, an eccentric carried by the base and actuated by the pedal and a receptor mount connected to a side wall of the base. The idle stop includes a tab extending out from the pedal, the tab having a threaded aperture through which an adjustable bolt extends. A fixed edge on a side of the base provides a surface for the bolt to come into contact with, and thus limit rearward movement of the pedal.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a trolling motor, comprising a foot operable control assembly with a rotatable plate operationally connected to the trolling motor so that the rotational motion of the plate will rotate the trolling motor to steer the boat. In one embodiment, the means to activate the trolling motor speeds are operationally connected to the trolling motor and placed in a circle around the rotatable control plate. In another embodiment the operator can place a chair on the rotatable plate to steer the boat and activate the trolling motor speeds with his foot. In still another embodiment the control assembly has a rotatable shaft with a chair attached to steer the boat and the trolling motor speed control means are operatively connected to the trolling motor and placed remotely from the control assembly so that the speed control means are accessible to the foot of an operator.

Abstract: A foot operated control for controlling both the steering and speed of a trolling motor that is mounted on a boat. The foot control includes an on-off switch disposed on a conically shaped, rotatable foot plate which can support an operator's entire body weight when operating and can be accessed by the foot of an operator from plural sides without repositioning the foot control on a boat deck. The rotatable foot plate overlays a thrust bearing that is secured to a flat bodied base plate. When the foot plate is rotated by the operator's foot, motion is transferred through a mechanism, e.g. a rack and pinion, that is recessed in base plate. The rack is connected to the trolling motor by a flexible control cable, and when foot plate is rotated, the trolling motor rotates up to a desired one to one angular ratio with foot plate.

Abstract: A foot throttle for boats wherein an eccentric is rotated by operation of a foot pedal and wherein the eccentric is biased directly against an adjustable limiter thus eliminating imprecise positioning of the throttle caused by loose tolerances in the pedal mechanism which actuates the eccentric.

Abstract: A trolling motor system comprises a trolling motor having a propeller rotatably driven thereby. The motor is connected to a rotating tube or column mounted to the boat. A control head is mounted at the upper end of the column. A steering motor in the control head controls rotational position of the trolling motor. The control head houses a control circuit for controlling speed of the trolling motor as well as position of the steering motor to steer the boat. A foot pedal is positioned in the boat in proximity to the control head. The foot pedal includes a plurality of user actuable switches for commanding operation of the steering motor and trolling motor. The commands are transmitted via radio frequency to a receiver in the control head. The receiver decodes the commands and transfers the command to the control circuit.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a trolling motor, comprising a rotatable, foot-operated bearing assembly operationally connected to the trolling motor so that rotational motion of the bearing assembly is transferred to produce rotation of the trolling motor. The apparatus is configured so that, regardless of whether the trolling motor is mounted to the front or the back of the boat, the boat will move in the direction of rotation of the bearing assembly. In one embodiment of the invention, the bearing assembly may support a swivel chair whereby rotation of the chair results in rotation of the trolling motor.

Abstract: A trolling motor system comprises a trolling motor having a propeller rotatably driven thereby. The motor is connected to a rotating tube or column mounted to the boat. A control head is mounted at the upper end of the column. A steering motor in the control head controls rotational position of the trolling motor. The control head houses a control circuit for controlling speed of the trolling motor as well as position of the steering motor to steer the boat. A foot pedal is positioned in the boat in proximity to the control head. The foot pedal includes a plurality of user actuable switches for commanding operation of the steering motor and trolling motor. The commands are transmitted via radio frequency to a receiver in the control head. The receiver decodes the commands and transfers the command to the control circuit.

Abstract: A foot throttle for boats wherein an eccentric is rotated by operation of a foot pedal and wherein the eccentric is biased directly against an adjustable limiter thus eliminating imprecise positioning of the throttle caused by loose tolerances in the pedal mechanism which actuates the eccentric.

Abstract: A fishing boat equipment mounting system is provided including a boat having a horizontal deck included therewith with a plurality of seat post holes formed therein for releasably receiving a plurality of seat posts. Next provided is at least one mounting plate including a top face and a bottom face with a periphery formed therebetween. The periphery is defined by a pair of linear parallel side edges and semi-circular end edges. Each mounting plate further has a gripping layer situated along the entire bottom face. A seat post bore and a plurality of mounting apertures are formed between the top and bottom face. By this structure, fishing equipment may be mounted on the top face of the mounting plates and the seat post bore of one of the mounting plates may be aligned with one of the seat post holes of the deck of the boat. Thereafter, one of the seat posts may be situated through the seat post hole and bore, thereby maintaining the mounting plate and fishing equipment in a constant orientation.

Abstract: A system (8) for controlling from a remote position the direction and speed of a trolling motor (16) that includes a steering motor (24) for turning the trolling motor (16), an optical receiver (22) coupled to the steering motor (24) and to a throttle (26), which is coupled to the trolling motor (16), and one or more reflectors (30, 40). An operator (10) may use a transmitter (18, 20) to develop an optical signal (34) representing a desired direction and speed for the trolling motor (16). Optical reflectors (30) assure delivery of the optical signal (34) to the optical receiver (22) notwithstanding potential obstacles (31).

Abstract: A remote-control, foot-operated unit for use with trolling motors on boats is revealed. The unit has a snap-together design that does not use screw fasteners extending through holes. As a result, the sensitive electronic components are completely sealed from contact with any water or water vapor. The snap design has a back-up feature to prevent accidental snap-release in the event of shock loading. The assembly fits together as a sandwich, effectively positioning a sealing component in juxtaposition with the snap arrangements to promote a secure connection around the periphery of the unit, as well as a tight sealing engagement between the sandwich components to, in effect, isolate the sensitive electronic components from exposure to any moisture.

Abstract: A control system for a fishing boat trolling motor comprises a pair of cables running from a first pulley on the motor shaft to a second pulley on a bearing assembly that supports a swivel chair so that rotation of the chair produces rotation of the trolling motor. The cables are arranged so that, regardless of whether the trolling motor is mounted to the front or the back of the boat, the boat will be moved in the direction the chair is rotated and two degrees of motor rotation are produced for each degree of chair rotation. The on/off or forward/off/reverse switch for the motor is also attached to a control panel on the chair and rotatable therewith. The switch is preferably positioned to be operated by movement of the user's leg and biased in the off position. Preferably, a motor polarity reversing switch and speed control are also operated from the control panel with the on/off switch.

Abstract: A warning system embodied in a remote control system which includes a warning circuit and which alerts the individual operating the system if the position of a controlled member of the system does not correspond with the position of the remote operator of the system within a preset period of time after the operator is moved.

Abstract: A pull-pull foot control device for controlling the angular position of a trolling motor mounted for pivotal movement on a boat. The device including a base plate mounted in a spaced relation to the trolling motor, a pedal pivotally mounted on the base plate with a pulley mounted on the base plate rearwardly of the foot pedal, a first cable having one end connected to the foot pedal and the other end connected to the trolling motor, and a second cable having one end connected to the foot pedal and the other end connected to the other side of the trolling motor, the second cable being wrapped around the pulley so that pivotal motion of the foot pedal in one direction will pull the trolling motor in one direction and pivotal motion in the other direction will pull the motor in the other direction.

Abstract: A simple to construct and utilize apparatus mounts a trolling motor control pedal and a seat in a fishing boat to provide optimum user comfort and control. A substantially planar plate has a control pedal mounted on its top surface near a first end of the plate, and has a sleeve for receiving the pedestal or post of a seat (chair) near the second end of the plate. Extending downwardly from the bottom surface of an intermediate portion of the plate is a shaft mounting the plate to the boat deck for rotation about a substnatially vertical axis of rotation. Beneath the pedestal-receiving sleeve is a rubberized non-skid material adhesively secured to the bottom surface of the plate to engage the boat deck and retard movement of the plate when a fisherman's weight is on the chair.

Abstract: A remote switching system for an electric trolling motor mounted to a boat includes at least one remote switching station secured to the boat and provided with a foot operated push-button switch actuator, the actuator configured for actuating the switch either momentarily or continuously by movement of the actuator by the operator's foot. A power circuit is designed to connect the remote switching station to the motor in a way which will conserve power and prevent corrosion.

Abstract: A leisure boat is provided in a round form having a diameter of about 1 to 2 meters, and includes propeller means provided at a position closer to its bow from the center of the boat and the bow and having a mechanism for changing its driving direction and sensor means provided on the outside of the boat for sensing external force. The sensor means is so connected to the propeller means that when the boat comes in contact or collision with another boat, etc., the sensor means detects the resulting external force to transmit it to the propeller means, thereby changing its driving direction.

Abstract: A servo controlled trolling motor steering system provides improved speed and steering control. The system includes apparatus for mounting the motor on a boat for rotation about an axis to effect steering of the boat. A foot pedal includes a base and a foot pad pivotally mounted to the base, the foot pad being pivotal by a user to command a desired steering direction. A membrane potentiometer senses rotational position of the motor to develop an electrical signal representative of the rotational position, the signal comprising a steering feedback signal. A second membrane potentiometer senses pivotal position of the foot pad relative to the base to develop an electrical signal representative of the pivotal position, the signal comprising a steering command signal.

Abstract: A foot operated steering mechanism (12) for conventional trolling motors (10) is provided which can be readily retrofitted to the motor (10) without interfering with normal manual control and steering of the motor (10). The steering mechanism (12) includes a pivotal plate (52) mounted proximal to the steering shaft (22) of the motor (10), along with a flexible, strap-like connector (72) secured to the plate (52) and shaft (22). A foot operated actuator (16) is connected via a cable (106) to plate (52), so that selective shifting of the actuator (16) effects corresponding pivoting of the shaft (22).

Abstract: A foot pedal to boat deck fastening system comprises a bracket mountable to a boat deck and a two-piece fastener. Each fastener piece has releasable, self-fastening connector elements on one face which fasten the two pieces when the pieces are pressed together and which release the two pieces when the two pieces are pulled apart, and a self-adhesive on an opposite surface for securing one piece to the bracket and the other piece to the foot pedal so that the foot pedal can be fastened to the boat deck by fastening the two pieces together.

Abstract: A propulsion and steering system for dual motors mounted to a boat, especially of the trolling type, which incorporates a pair of foot pedals which are electrically connected between a battery and the motors and which are operable to independently control the direction of thrust and speed of the motors so that the motors are used to both propel and steer the boat.

Abstract: A servo controlled trolling motor steering system provides improved speed and steering control. The system includes apparatus for mounting the motor on a boat for rotation about an axis to effect steering of the boat. A foot pedal includes a base and a foot pad pivotally mounted to the base, the foot pad being pivotal by a user to command a desired steering direction. A membrane potentiometer senses rotational position of the motor to develop an electrical signal representative of the rotational position, the signal comprising a steering feedback signal. A second membrane potentiometer senses pivotal position of the foot pad relative to the base to develop an electrical signal representative of the pivotal position, the signal comprising a steering command signal.