Device and method for autonomously seeking, then maintaining a constant depth while in motion through the water either by retrieval or being towed

Abstract

The present invention is a submersible device comprising a body encasing an enclosed compressible void capable of physically responding to changes in ambient pressure imparted by the device's depth underwater. This physical response to pressure changes actuates a dynamic dive plane. The forces imparted on the dive plane by the motion of the device through the water drives the device to seek, achieve and then maintain a predetermined depth. This device can be used for fishing applications and other underwater activities that benefit from dynamic depth control.

Claims

1. A submersible device with a pressure-actuated dive plane for controlling depth comprising: A submersible body exposed to an ambient pressure, A tow point on an exterior surface of the submersible body, A fishing hook on an exterior surface of the submersible body, A compressible bellows housed inside the submersible body, A connecting rod fixed to the bellows at an aft end of the connecting rod and fixed to a lever at a forward end of the connecting rod, The lever rotates about a fixed pivot point, The lever is fixed to a dive plane that rotates about the fixed pivot point, Wherein a change in the ambient pressure on the bellows causes an axial translation in the connecting rod that rotates said lever in order to control the rotation of the dive plane about the fixed pivot point.

2. A fishing lure comprising the submersible device of claim 1.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) FIG. 1: Top view of the device with forward dive plane configuration.

(2) FIG. 2: Top view of the device with mid-body dive plane configuration.

(3) FIG. 3: Side view of the device with the forward dive plane configuration.

(4) FIG. 4: Side view of the device with the mid-body dive plane configuration.

(5) 1. The dynamic dive plane [1], wherein the dive plane [1] may vary in shape, size, location on the body [2] and appearance. 2. The body [2] of the device, wherein the body [2] may vary in shape, size and appearance. 3. The compressible void [3] within the body [2]. 4. The pivot point [4] of the dynamic dive plane [1]. 5. The lever arm [5] is attached to the compressible void [3] and the dynamic dive plane [1]. 6. The point [6] of connection for the line attached to the device for pulling or towing. 7. The hook [7], for instance, when used as a device for catching fish; a camera, or any other device the user might attach to the body [2].