OUTRIGGER ASSEMBLY COMPRISING LINE MANAGEMENT ASSEMBLY

Abstract

The invention is an improved telescoping outrigger system that automatically winds and unwinds rigging line as the system collapses and expands. The system includes at least three sections (a base section, a middle section, and a top section) configured to reduce the outrigger in size to about 3.5 feet in a collapsed orientation. The system also includes lower and upper clamping bushings and a tip that each include a roller mechanism to direct and control the winding of line. The system also includes lower and upper internal sleeve and plug assemblies that support the winding and unwinding action of the line during use.

Claims

1. A telescoping outrigger system with line management and internal rigging comprising: a base section including a first end and an opposed second end; a top section including a first end and an opposed second end; a middle section including a first end and an opposed second end; a lower clamping bushing positioned on the second end of the base section, the lower clamping bushing comprising: a plurality of roller guides that direct two rigging lines within the interior of the internal rigging a first extended orientation of the outrigger system and a second collapsed orientation of the outrigger system; and an interior that includes a first section positioned at the first end of the lower clamping bushing with a first diameter and a second section positioned at the second end of the lower clamping bushing with a second diameter that is less than the first diameter; an internal passageway that extends an interior length of the lower clamping bushing; a plurality of apertures positioned adjacent to the internal passageway of the lower clamping bushing, the plurality of apertures configured to allow a portion of rigging line to extend therethrough during the first extended orientation and the second collapsed orientation; an upper clamping bushing positioned on the second end of the middle section, the upper clamping bushing comprising: a roller guide that directs a rigging line within the interior of the internal rigging a first extended orientation of the outrigger system and a second collapsed orientation of the outrigger system; and an interior that includes a first section positioned at the first end of the upper clamping bushing with a first diameter and a second section positioned at the second end of the upper clamping bushing with a second diameter that is less than the first diameter; an internal passageway that extends an interior length of the upper clamping bushing; a plurality of apertures positioned adjacent to the internal passageway of the lower clamping bushing, the plurality of apertures configured to allow a portion of rigging line to extend therethrough during the first extended orientation and the second collapsed orientation; an upper plug comprising a first end defined by first upper plug section and a second end defined by a second upper plug section, wherein the first section includes an interior diameter that is greater than the interior diameter of the upper plug second section; a lower plug comprising a first end defined by first lower plug section and a second end defined by a second lower plug section, wherein the first section includes an interior diameter that is greater than the interior diameter of the lower plug second section; wherein the second end of the base section fits between the lower clamping bushing and the lower plug, and wherein the first end of the middle section is housed within the interior of the second section of the lower clamping bushing, fitting over the second section of the lower plug; wherein the second end of the middle section fits between the upper clamping bushing and the upper plug, and wherein the first end of the top section is housed within the interior of the second section of the upper clamping bushing, fitting over the second section of the upper plug; and wherein the top section is positioned within an interior of the middle section, and the middle section is positioned within an interior of the base section in the second collapsed orientation.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the base section, top section, and middle section each has a length of about 5-15 feet.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the first section of the lower plug has an internal diameter of about 1-2 inches and the internal diameter of the section of the lower plug is about 1-15 percent smaller than the internal diameter of the first section.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the first section of the lower plug has an internal diameter of about 1-2 inches and the internal diameter of the section of the lower plug is about 1-15 percent smaller than the internal diameter of the first section.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the top section includes a tapered tip comprising a roller guide.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the base section, top section, middle section, upper clamping bushing, lower clamping bushing, upper plug, and lower plug are constructed from carbon fiber, plastic, stainless steel, or combinations thereof.

7. The system of claim 1, further comprising at least one additional base section, middle section, or top section.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the base section, middle section, and top section have a circular cross-sectional shape.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the upper clamping bushing and lower clamping bushing are attached to middle section and base section, respectively, using adhesive, welding, or mechanical closures.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the top section includes a passageway that connects with the tip roller guide.

11. A telescoping outrigger system with line management and external rigging comprising: a base section including a first end and an opposed second end; a top section including a first end and an opposed second end; a middle section including a first end and an opposed second end; a lower clamping bushing positioned on the second end of the base section, the lower clamping bushing comprising: a plurality of roller guides that direct two rigging lines within the interior of the internal rigging a first extended orientation of the outrigger system and a second collapsed orientation of the outrigger system; and an interior that includes a first section positioned at the first end of the lower clamping bushing with a first diameter and a second section positioned at the second end of the lower clamping bushing with a second diameter that is less than the first diameter; an internal passageway that extends an interior length of the lower clamping bushing; a plurality of apertures positioned adjacent to the internal passageway of the lower clamping bushing, the plurality of apertures configured to allow a portion of rigging line to extend therethrough during the first extended orientation and the second collapsed orientation; an upper clamping bushing positioned between the second end of the middle section and the first end of the top section, the upper clamping bushing comprising: a roller guide that directs a rigging line within the interior of the internal rigging a first extended orientation of the outrigger system and a second collapsed orientation of the outrigger system; and an interior that includes a first section positioned at the first end of the upper clamping bushing with a first diameter and a second section positioned at the second end of the upper clamping bushing with a second diameter that is less than the first diameter; an internal passageway that extends an interior length of the upper clamping bushing; a plurality of apertures positioned adjacent to the internal passageway of the lower clamping bushing, the plurality of apertures configured to allow a portion of rigging line to extend therethrough during the first extended orientation and the second collapsed orientation; a lower sleeve positioned within the first section of the lower clamping bushing, wherein the lower sleeve includes: an outer diameter that is greater than the diameter of the second section of the lower clamping bushing; an inner passageway that extends an entire length of the lower sleeve; wherein the second end of the base section is positioned over the lower sleeve within the interior of the lower clamping bushing an upper sleeve positioned within the first section of the upper clamping bushing, wherein the upper sleeve includes: an outer diameter that is greater than the diameter of the second section of the upper clamping bushing; an inner passageway that extends an entire length of the upper sleeve; wherein the second end of the middle section is positioned over the upper sleeve within the interior of the upper clamping bushing.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein a portion of the lower sleeve extends past the lower clamping bushing, a portion of the upper sleeve expands past the upper clamping bushing, or both.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein the base section, top section, and middle section each has a length of about 5-15 feet.

14. The system of claim 11, wherein the interior diameter of the lower sleeve is about 1-2 inches and the interior diameter of the upper sleeve is about 1.5-2.5 inches.

15. The system of claim 11, wherein the top section includes a tapered tip comprising a roller guide.

16. The system of claim 11, wherein the upper sleeve and the lower sleeve each include at least one small wheel configured to direct the line.

17. The system of claim 11, wherein the base section, top section, middle section, upper clamping bushing, lower clamping bushing, upper plug, and lower plug are constructed from carbon fiber, plastic, stainless steel, or combinations thereof.

18. The system of claim 11, further comprising at least one additional base section, middle section, or top section.

19. The system of claim 11, wherein the base section, middle section, and top section have a circular cross-sectional shape.

20. The system of claim 11, wherein the upper clamping bushing and lower clamping bushing are attached to middle section and base section, respectively, using adhesive, welding, or mechanical closures.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] FIG. 1a is a perspective view of an externally rigged telescoping outrigger system in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0025] FIG. 1b is an exploded view of an externally rigged outrigger system in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0026] FIG. 2 is a top fragmentary view of a boat comprising an outrigger system in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0027] FIG. 3a is a perspective view of an outrigger system base section in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0028] FIG. 3b is a perspective view of an outrigger system middle section in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0029] FIG. 3c is a perspective view of an outrigger system top section in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0030] FIG. 4a is a cross-sectional view of an outrigger system base section in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0031] FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view of an outrigger system middle section in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0032] FIG. 4c is a cross-sectional view of an outrigger system top section in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0033] FIG. 5a is a bottom plan view of an outrigger system lower clamping bushing in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0034] FIG. 5b is a perspective view of an outrigger system lower clamping bushing in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0035] FIG. 5c is a cross-sectional view of an outrigger system lower clamping bushing in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0036] FIG. 5d is a cross-sectional view of an internally rigged outrigger system lower clamping bushing and lower plug in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0037] FIG. 6a is a perspective view of a lower plug in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0038] FIG. 6b is a sectional view of the lower plug of FIG. 6a in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0039] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of lower sleeve and lower clamping bushing with external rigging in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0040] FIG. 8a is a perspective view of a lower sleeve in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0041] FIG. 8b is a sectional view of a lower sleeve in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0042] FIG. 8c is a cross-sectional view of a lower sleeve in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0043] FIG. 9 is a front plan view of an outrigger system lower clamping bushing in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0044] FIGS. 10a and 10b are side views of a lower plug during internal rigging in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0045] FIG. 11 is a side view of a joined lower sleeve during external rigging applications in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0046] FIG. 12a is a side view of an upper clamping bushing in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0047] FIG. 12b is a sectional view of the upper clamping bushing of FIG. 10a in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0048] FIG. 13a is a perspective view of an upper plug in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0049] FIG. 13b is a sectional view of an upper plug in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0050] FIG. 14a is a perspective view of an upper sleeve in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0051] FIG. 14b is a sectional view of an upper plug in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0052] FIG. 15 is a front view of an upper clamping bushing in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0053] FIGS. 16a and 16b are side views of a joined upper plug and upper sleeve in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0054] FIG. 17 is a side sectional view of an upper clamping bushing cooperating with a middle section, upper section, upper sleeve, and upper plug in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0055] FIG. 18a illustrates a lower clamping bushing and upper clamping bushing arrangement in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0056] FIG. 18b illustrates a lower clamping bushing and upper clamping bushing arrangement in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0057] FIG. 19a is a side view of a top section and tip in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0058] FIG. 19b is a bottom view of FIG. 19a in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0059] FIG. 20a is a side view of an assembled outrigger system in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0060] FIGS. 20b and 20c are bottom perspective view of an assembled outrigger system in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0061] FIG. 20d is a front view of an assembled outrigger system in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0062] FIG. 20e is a rear view of an assembled outrigger system in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter

[0063] FIGS. 21a-21f are perspective views of rigging through the outrigger system in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0064] FIG. 22a-22d illustrate top, rear, back, bottom, and review views of a lower plug in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0065] FIGS. 23a-23d are top, front, bottom, and rear views, respectively, of the lower clamping bushing in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0066] FIG. 24a-24d illustrate top, rear, back, bottom, and review views of an upper plug in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0067] FIGS. 25a-25d are top, front, bottom, and rear views, respectively, of the upper clamping bushing in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0068] FIGS. 26a-26d are top, front, bottom, and rear views, respectively, of the system spike/tip for internal rigging in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0069] FIGS. 27a-27c are top, front, and rear views of the lower sleeve in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0070] FIGS. 28a-28c are bottom, front, and rear views of the lower clamping bushing in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0071] FIGS. 29a-29c are top, front, and rear views of an upper sleeve in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0072] FIGS. 30a-30c are bottom, front, and rear views of an upper clamping bushing in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0073] FIGS. 31a-31c are bottom front, and rear views of a spike/tip for external in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0074] FIG. 32a illustrates an externally rigged system in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0075] FIG. 32b illustrates an internally rigged system in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0076] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to preferred embodiments and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended, such alteration and further modifications of the disclosure as illustrated herein, being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure relates.

[0077] Articles a and an are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e., at least one) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, an element means at least one element and can include more than one element. It will be further understood that the terms comprises, comprising, includes, and/or including when used herein specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

[0078] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of components, conditions, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term about. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the instant specification and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0079] As used herein, the term about, when referring to a value or to an amount of mass, weight, time, volume, concentration, and/or percentage can encompass variations of, in some embodiments +/20%, in some embodiments +/10%, in some embodiments +/5%, in some embodiments +/1%, in some embodiments +/0.5%, and in some embodiments +/0.1%, from the specified amount, as such variations are appropriate in the disclosed packages and methods. Thus, the term about is used to provide flexibility to a numerical range endpoint by providing that a given value may be slightly above or slightly below the endpoint without affecting the desired result.

[0080] As used herein, the term and/or includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0081] Relative terms such as below or above or upper or lower or horizontal or vertical may be used herein to describe a relationship of one element, layer, or region to another element, layer, or region as illustrated in the drawing figures. It will be understood that these terms and those discussed above are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawing figures.

[0082] The embodiments set forth below represent the necessary information to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments and illustrate the best mode of practicing the embodiments. Upon reading the following description in light of the accompanying drawing figures, those skilled in the art will understand the concepts of the disclosure and will recognize applications of these concepts not particularly addressed herein. It should be understood that these concepts and applications fall within the scope of the disclosure and the accompanying claims.

[0083] All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., such as) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention, and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any unclaimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

[0084] Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0085] The presently disclosed subject matter is directed to an improved telescoping outrigger system 5 that automatically winds and unwinds rigging line as the system collapses and expands. As noted above, the outriggers are long poles that extend from a boat to spread out lines, allowing anglers to cover more area and catch more fish. The outrigger line runs in a loop up through eyelets on an outrigger and through a pulley or ring held off the gunwale.

[0086] As illustrated in FIGS. 1a and 1b, the collapsible outrigger system includes at least three sections (base section 10, middle section 15, and top section 20) configured to reduce the outrigger in size to about 3.5 feet in a collapsed orientation (e.g., at least/no more than about 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 feet). The system therefore can include more than three sections, such as a base section, top section, and a plurality of middle sections). The system also includes lower and upper clamping bushings 25 and 30 and tip 35 that each include a roller mechanism to direct and control the winding of line, as described in detail below. The system includes lower and upper internal sleeve or plug assemblies that support the winding and unwinding action of the line during use. Specifically, the system incorporates upper and lower plugs 40, 45 when internal rigging is used (e.g., the rigging is routed around the end of each tube section). Conversely, the system uses upper and lower sleeves 50, 55 for externally rigged outriggers (e.g., rigging is routed in between the various tube sections and exits the system). Thus, externally rigged outriggers only use the upper and lower sleeves, while internal rigged outriggers only use the upper and lower plugs. The phrase externally rigged outrigger refers to an outrigger that includes rigging on the exterior (e.g., outer) surface of the outrigger. The term internally rigged outrigger refers to outrigger that includes rigging that passes fully or partially through the interior (e.g., hollow inside) of an outrigger. The sleeves and plugs have the same or similar functions, but move the rigging differently as noted in detail below.

[0087] As explained in detail below, for internally rigged applications, the system will include base, middle, and top sections, as well as an upper bushing, lower bushing, and upper and lower plugs. The system will also include a tip/spike section. For externally rigged applications, the system includes the base, middle, and top sections, as well as a unique upper and lower bushing (when compared to the upper and lower bushings included with internally rigged systems), and upper and lower sleeves.

[0088] For externally rigged outriggers, the rigging is introduced from the lower clamping bushing to a lower sleeve where the rigging will be wound and return through lower clamping bushing 25 onto rollers of upper clamping bushing 30. One of the rigging lines then travels back to the boat. The second rigging line is passed through openings in the upper clamping bushing down to an upper sleeve assembly and is then reversed back through the upper clamping bushing and onto a roller of tip 35 where the rigging can return to the boat. Advantageously, system 5 allows a user to safely and securely telescope the outrigger from a first larger size to a second smaller size while the rigging is wound through the system. When the user desires to expand out the outrigger, the system allows the rigging to be unwound.

[0089] FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of an outrigger configured on boat 50. The term boat broadly refers to any aquatic vehicle of any size or type including (but not limited to) vessels, ships, yachts, pleasure craft, etc. As shown, outriggers 55 are configured as long poles that extend horizontally or about horizontally from sides 56 of the boat. The poles allow a user to reel in and release rigging lines 57 via a system of pulleys and clips. The outriggers are designed to spread the rigging lines out and away from the boat, creating a wider spread of lures/bait 58 and increasing the chances of catching fish. As noted above, conventional outriggers suffer from the presence of excess rigging line when the outriggers are telescoped in (e.g., not in use during travel). Particularly, as the outriggers are telescoped from a first (largest) length to a second (smaller) length, rigging line 50 pools within the boat.

[0090] Thus, when a telescoping outrigger is retracted to a closed position, the outrigger line is no longer taut and dangles freely onto the deck of the boat. Once the outrigger is fully retracted, a substantial amount of line can be deposited on the boat deck. The loose line presents a safety hazard (e.g., tripping danger). In addition, it is common on fishing boats to find a variety of deck clutter, including rigging lines, outtackle, etc., that are in motion due to the movement of the boat on the water. As a result, the mass of rigging line can easily become entangled with other items on the boat, requiring a large amount of time to disentangle the lines.

[0091] As noted above, outrigger system 5 includes base section 10, middle section 15, and top section 20 as illustrated in FIGS. 3a-3c. The base section includes first end 11 attached to the boat using any conventional mechanism (e.g., bolts, fasteners, welding) and opposed second end 12. Similarly, middle section 15 includes first and second ends 16, 17. Top section 20 includes first end 21 and opposed second end 22. The three sections are configured as hollow tubes, each with internal passageway 13, 18, 23 respectively.

[0092] Those skilled in the art will recognize that while only three sections are shown in this illustration, telescoping outriggers may have any desired number of extendable sections. For example, the system can include 2 sections, 3 sections, 4 sections, or more.

[0093] The length of the outrigger and the number of sections can be adjusted as needed to be suitable for the particular size and type of fish being sought.

[0094] As shown, the base, middle, and top sections can be configured with a circular cross-sectional shape. However, it should be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape of sections 10, 15, and 20 is not limited and any shape can be used (e.g., oval, square, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, pentagonal, and the like).

[0095] Sections 10, 15, and 20 can have any suitable lengths 14, 19, and 24, respectively, such as about 5-15 feet (e.g., at least/no more than about 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, or 15 feet). The term length refers to the longest horizontal distance between two ends of an element (e.g., between first and second ends 11, 12 of the base section). However, the presently disclosed subject matter is not limited and the outrigger sections can be configured with a length that is larger or smaller than the range given above.

[0096] In some embodiments, the length of the base section, middle section, and top section can be about the same length (e.g., about 5-15 feet). Thus, the system can be configured as an 18 foot outrigger with three 6 feet long sections in some embodiments. In other embodiments, a 20 foot outrigger can be configured with three 7 foot long sections or a 22 foot outrigger can be configured with three 7.5 foot long sections. In still other embodiments, a 24 foot outrigger can be configured with three 8 foot long sections. It should therefore be appreciated that any combination of lengths of the base, middle, and top sections can be used in an outrigger system.

[0097] Thus, the presently disclosed subject matter is not limited and one or more of sections 10, 15, and/or 20 can have a length that is different from one or more other sections. For example, the length of a section can differ from at least one other section by about 5-30%. The system can be configured as a 32 foot outrigger with a base section of length 14 feet, a middle section of length 10 feet, and a top section of 8 feet in some embodiments. It should be appreciated that the lengths of sections 10, 15, and 20 are not limited and can be configured in a variety of lengths.

[0098] Each section also includes an inner diameter of about 1-10 inches as shown in FIGS. 4a-4c. The term inner diameter refers to the largest dimension of an element, measured within the interior of the element, in a direction perpendicular to its axis of elongation. Thus, the base section inner diameter 60 can be at least/no more than about 2-10 inches (e.g., at least/no more than about 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, or 10 inches). Inner diameter 62 of the middle section can be about 1.5-9.5 inches (e.g., at least/no more than about 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, or 9.5 inches). Inner diameter 63 of the top section can be about 1-9 inches (e.g., at least/no more than about 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, or 9 inches). It should be appreciated that the inner diameters of the system sections are not limited to the ranges given above.

[0099] Each section also includes an outer diameter of about 1.5-15 inches. The term outer diameter refers to the longest point measured from an outermost wall to an opposed outermost wall. Thus, the base section outer diameter 65 can be at least/no more than about 2.5-10.5 inches (e.g., at least/no more than about 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, or 10.5 inches). Outer diameter 66 of the middle section can be about 2-10 inches (e.g., at least/no more than about 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5 or 10 inches). Outer diameter 67 of the top section can be about 1-10 inches (e.g., at least/no more than about 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, or 10 inches). It should be appreciated that the outer diameters of the system sections are not limited to the ranges given above.

[0100] To allow the outrigger system to telescope, the inner diameter of the base section is configured to be larger than the outer diameter of middle section 15 (e.g., allowing the middle section to be housed within the interior of the base section. Similarly, the inner diameter of the middle section is configured to be larger than the outer diameter of top section 20 to allow the top section to be housed within the interior of the middle section. As indicated above, outrigger system 5 further includes lower and upper clamping bushings 25 and 30. Lower clamping bushing 25 is attached to second end 12 of the base section using any conventional mechanism (e.g., clamps, adhesive, welding, and the like). The upper clamping bushing is positioned on the second end of middle section 15 using any desired method. Thus, the lower clamping bushing is positioned between base section 10 and middle section 15, while the upper clamping bushing is positioned between the middle section and top section 20. The upper and lower clamping bushings act as stops for the sleeves or plugs to ensure that the various outrigger components cannot inadvertently be separated when used with internal and external outrigging applications.

[0101] One embodiment of lower clamping bushing 25 is illustrated in FIGS. 5a-5d. It should be appreciated that the lower clamping bushing is used for both external and internal rigging applications.

[0102] As shown, the lower clamping bushing includes first end 70 positioned over second end 12 of the base section in both internal and external rigging applications. The lower clamping bushing also includes opposed second end 71. The term bushing refers to a sheath that allows one or more rigging lines to pass therethrough.

[0103] As shown, the lower clamping bushing includes a plurality of lower bushing roller guides (e.g., rollers or wheels) that function to direct two rigging lines within the interior of the system for as described in detail below. Specifically, the lower clamping bushing directs two lines into the pole for both externally rigged and internally rigged applications.

[0104] The lower clamping bushing first end 70 includes first roller guide 75 and second end 71 includes a pair of roller guides 76 that extend beyond the second end. The term roller guides refers to components that include small rollers that rigging line passes over. The rollers reduce friction, allowing the line to move smoothly during telescoping and advancing of the outrigger. Thus, the roller guides direct the external and internal rigging lines during telescoping and expanding of the outrigger, as well as maintain line integrity. In some embodiments, each roller guide includes a grooved wheel 80 that functions to guide a portion of rigging line through an adjacent opening, as shown in FIG. 5a. The rigging line is directed through the center of the wheel (e.g., within groove 81). The wheel is positioned within housing 85 that protects the wheel and rigging line from damage, as well as ensures that the line remains on the wheel. The lower clamping bushings for both external and internal rigging applications include the noted features.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 5c, the interior of the lower clamping bushing includes first section 90 with a first inner diameter 95 that is sized and shaped to accommodate the lower plug in internal rigging systems. The interior of the lower plug accommodates the second end of the lower plug as described below. Inner diameter 95 of the first section of the lower clamping bushing can be about 1, 5, 10, 15, or 20 percent greater than the outer diameter of a first end of lower plug 45, as shown in FIG. 5d. The lower clamping bushing also includes second section 91 with smaller internal diameter 92 that houses a second section of the lower plug in internal rigging applications. The entire lower plug therefore fits within the interior of the lower clamping bushing during internally rigged systems.

[0106] One embodiment of lower plug 45 is illustrated in FIGS. 6a and 6b. As noted above, for internally rigged systems, the lower clamping bushing cooperates with a lower plug. Lower plug 45 comprises first end 105 defined by first lower plug section 110. The lower plug also includes second end 106 positioned adjacent to second lower plug section 106. As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 6b, the interior diameter 115 of the first section is greater than the interior diameter 116 of the second section. For example, in some embodiments, the interior diameter of the first section is about 1.8 inches (e.g., at least/no more than about 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, or 3 inches). The inner diameter of the second section is at least/no more than about 1, 5, 10, or 15 percent smaller than the inner diameter of first section 110. Thus, internal passageway 120 tapers from the lower plug first end to the second end.

[0107] In externally rigged outrigger applications, first section 90 of lower clamping bushing 25 cooperates with a lower sleeve instead of a plug, as shown in FIG. 7.

[0108] As illustrated, lower sleeve 100 is sized and shaped to fit within first section 90 of the interior of the lower bushing. Because the diameter of second section 91 is smaller than first section 90, the lower sleeve remains in the first section of the lower bushing only. Inner diameter 95 of the first section of the lower clamping bushing can be about 1, 5, 10, 15, or 20 percent greater than the outer diameter of the lower sleeve. A portion of the lower sleeve extends past the lower bushing, as shown in FIG. 7.

[0109] FIG. 8a illustrates one embodiment of lower sleeve 100 that cooperates with the lower bushing for externally rigged applications. As shown, the lower sleeve includes interior passageway 125 that passes the entire length of the sleeve. The sleeve also includes first and second ends 130, 131, as shown. In some embodiments, the lower sleeve can be cylindrically shaped.

[0110] The interior diameter 135 of the lower sleeve can be about 1.8 inches (e.g., at least/no more than about 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, or 3 inches). As shown in FIG. 8b, the outer diameter 136 of lower sleeve 100 can be 2-3.5 inches (e.g., at least/no more than about 2, 2.5, 3, or 3.5 inches). As noted above, inner diameter refers to a measurement made on a hollow object, from one inside wall to the opposite inside wall. The outer diameter therefore is the measurement made from the outside wall to the opposite outside wall. Thus, the outer diameter is the straight-line segment that passes through the center of the cross-sectional shape of an element, where the endpoints of the straight-line segment are positioned on an outer edge, as shown in FIG. 8c.

[0111] Lower clamping bushing 25 also includes a plurality of apertures sized and shaped to allow a portion of rigging line to pass there through during telescoping and advancing of the outrigger (for both internally rigged and externally rigged applications). As shown in FIG. 9, first aperture 140 can be positioned adjacent to first roller guide 75. A second pair of apertures 141 can be positioned adjacent to the grooved wheels of second roller guides 76. An additional pair of apertures 142 can be positioned between the second roller guides (e.g., allowing for the winding of line).

[0112] As shown in FIG. 10a, base section 10 fits between the lower clamping bushing and the lower plug in internally rigged applications. Thus, first section 110 of the lower plug is housed within the interior of the base section. The first section is positioned within the interior of the first section of the lower clamping bushing. The first end of middle section 15 is housed within the interior of the second end of the lower clamping bushing, fitting over second end 106 of the lower plug, as shown in FIG. 10b. Thus, second section 111 of lower plug 45 is housed within the interior of the middle section when the system is assembled.

[0113] In externally rigged outrigger systems, base section 10 is positioned over lower sleeve 100 within the interior of the lower clamping bushing. As shown in FIG. 11, the base section is housed within lower clamping bushing first section 90 and is configured to house the lower sleeve during external rigging applications. Thus, the lower section is positioned between the lower clamping bushing and the lower sleeve. The first end of the middle section 15 fits within the interior of second section 91 of the lower clamping bushing, as illustrated.

[0114] Similar to the configuration of the base section, system 5 also includes upper clamping bushing 30 positioned between middle section 15 and top section 20. The upper clamping bushing used with internally rigged applications differs from the upper clamping bushing used with externally rigged applications. Specifically, the elements have different rollers and move different as illustrated in FIGS. 25a-d (internally rigged) and FIGS. 30a-c (externally rigged applications).

[0115] Specifically, the upper clamping bushing is attached to second end 17 of the middle section using any conventional mechanism (e.g., clamps, adhesive, welding, and the like). One embodiment of upper clamping bushing 30 is illustrated in FIGS. 12a-12b. As shown, the upper clamping bushing includes first end 145 that is positioned over second end 17 of the middle section. The upper clamping bushing also includes opposed second end 146. As shown, the upper clamping bushing includes first roller guide 150 that functions to direct a rigging line as described in detail below. As with the lower clamping bushing, the roller guide includes a grooved wheel 151 that functions to guide a portion of rigging line through an adjacent opening. The rigging line is directed through the center of the wheel (e.g., within a wheel groove). The wheel is positioned within a housing that protects the wheel from damage.

[0116] As shown in FIG. 12b, the upper clamping bushing includes first section 155 with a first inner diameter 160 that is sized and shaped to accommodate an upper plug (in internally rigged applications) or an upper sleeve (in externally rigged applications). The upper clamping bushing further includes second section 156 with inner passageway diameter 161 that is less than the diameter of first section 155. The inner diameter of second section 151 is less than the inner diameter of the first section of the upper clamping bushing. For example, inner diameter 161 of the second section of the upper clamping bushing can be about 1, 5, 10, 15, or 20 percent less than the inner diameter of first section 155, as shown in FIG. 12b.

[0117] In internally rigged applications, upper plug 40 is positioned within the interior of the upper clamping bushing. FIGS. 13a and 13b illustrates one embodiment of upper plug 40 comprising first end 170 and opposed second end 171. The upper clamping bushing also includes first section 175 positioned adjacent to first end 170, and second section 176 positioned adjacent to second end 171. As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 13b, interior diameter 180 of the first section is greater than interior diameter 181 of the second section. For example, in some embodiments, the interior diameter of the first section is about 1.5 inches (e.g., at least/no more than about 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, or 3 inches). The inner diameter of the second section is at least/no more than about 1, 5, 10, or 15 percent smaller than the inner diameter of first section 175. Thus, internal passageway 185 tapers from the upper plug first end to the second end.

[0118] In externally rigged applications, upper sleeve 101 is housed within the interior of first section 155 of the upper clamping bushing. The upper clamp bushing in both external and internal rigging applications attach to the middle section in an assembled system. Further, both the sleeve and plugs stop when they contact the smaller diameter of the upper clamping bushing in both internally rigged and externally rigged applications. However, the upper clamping bushing used during internal rigged applications versus externally rigged applications move the line differently. Specifically, the internally rigged upper clamping bushing includes one small hidden wheel, as illustrated in the figures. In comparison, the externally rigged upper clamping bushing includes two larger wheels.

[0119] As illustrated in FIGS. 14a and 14b, the upper sleeve includes interior passageway 190 that passes the entire length of the sleeve. The sleeve also includes first and second ends 195, 196, as shown. In some embodiments, the upper sleeve can be cylindrically shaped.

[0120] The interior diameter 200 of the upper sleeve can be about 1.8 inches (e.g., at least/no more than about 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, or 3 inches). As shown in FIG. 14b, the outer diameter 201 of upper sleeve 101 can be 2-3.5 inches (e.g., at least/no more than about 2, 2.5, 3, or 3.5 inches).

[0121] Upper clamping bushing 30 also includes a plurality of apertures sized and shaped to allow a portion of rigging line to pass therethrough during telescoping and advancing of the outrigger. As shown in FIG. 15 (externally rigged upper clamping bushing), apertures 165 can be positioned adjacent to roller guides 150.

[0122] As shown in FIG. 16a, middle section 15 fits between the upper clamping bushing and the upper plug in internally rigged applications. Thus, first section 175 of the upper plug is housed within the interior of middle section 15 when seated first section 155 of the upper clamping bushing. First end 21 of top section 20 is housed within the interior of the second section 156 of the upper clamping bushing, fitting over second section 176 of the upper plug, as shown in FIG. 16b. Thus, second section 176 of upper plug 40 is housed within the interior of the top section when the system is assembled. The top section therefore is positioned between the upper plug and the upper clamping bushing.

[0123] In externally rigged outrigger systems, middle section 15 is positioned over upper sleeve 101 within the interior of the upper clamping bushing. As shown in FIG. 17, the middle section is housed within upper clamping bushing first section 155 and is configured to house the upper sleeve within the interior of the middle section. Thus, middle section 20 is positioned between the upper clamping bushing and the upper sleeve. The first end of top section 20 is housed within the interior of second section 156 of the upper clamping bushing, as illustrated.

[0124] FIG. 18a illustrates an assembled internal routing (with external rigging) outrigger system. As illustrated, lower clamping bushing 25 houses lower sleeve 100 within first section 90. Upper sleeve 101 is housed within first section 155 of upper clamping bushing 30. The assembled system also includes base section 10 and middle section 15 (not shown), as well as top section 20.

[0125] FIG. 18b illustrates an assembled internal routing (with internal rigging) outrigger system. As shown, lower clamping bushing 25 houses lower plug 45 within the lower clamping bushing interior. Specifically, the first section of the lower plug is housed within lower clamping bushing first section 90, while the second section of the lower plug is housed within second section 91 of the lower clamping bushing. Similarly, the first section of the upper plug is housed withing the first section 155 of the upper clamping bushing. Second section 176 of the upper plug is housed within second section 156 of the upper clamping bushing. The assembled system also includes base section 10 and middle section 15 (not shown), as well as top section 20.

[0126] FIGS. 19a and 19b illustrate one embodiment of top section 20. As shown, tip 35 is attached to second end 22 of the top section using any conventional mechanism (e.g., clamps, adhesive, welding, and the like). Tip 35 includes roller guide 210 defined by roller wheel 215 that includes a central groove 220. The roller guide is positioned at first end 36 of the tip (adjacent to the upper sleeve when the outrigger is fully assembled). The tip also includes tapered second end 37, as shown.

[0127] For external rigging applications, the outriggers use different spikes/tips compared to internal rigging applications. For example, internally rigged applications include a spike/tip with a hole in the middle, as shown.

[0128] FIGS. 20a-20e illustrate one embodiment of assembled outrigger system 5. Specifically, base section 10 is positioned to contact a boat at first end 11. The second end of the base section is housed within the first end of lower clamping bushing 25 in both internal and external rigging applications, as described above. The first end of middle section 15 is housed within the interior of the second end of the lower clamping bushing. The second end of the middle section is positioned within the first end of upper clamping bushing 30. The first end of top section 20 is housed within the second end of upper clamping bushing 30. The second end of the top section is attached to tip 35.

[0129] Those skilled in the art will realize that the system elements can be fabricated from any suitable material. In some embodiments, the materials used to construct the system components are selected for the ability to withstand the environmental forces of a marine environment (e.g., exposure to saltwater, ultraviolet radiation, humidity, heat, etc.). Suitable materials can include (but are not limited to) carbon fiber, metal (e.g., stainless steel), or combinations thereof.

[0130] In use, the disclosed system includes aperture and guide rollers for guiding outrigger cords/rigging through cord/rigging passages to maintain an independent longitudinal displacement, thereby preventing entanglement. Accordingly, system 5 solves the problem of excess rigging lines when the outrigger collapses (e.g., is telescoped).

[0131] As noted above, it should be appreciated that the outrigger line is a closed loop of line. For internal routing with external rigging, the rigging line enters lower clamping bushing 25, turns on a pulley, and is routed in between the base section and the middle section to lower sleeve 100. As illustrated, each sleeve includes at least one small wheel 250 that acts as a pulley. The rigging line then turns on a pulley and runs back in between the middle section and base section through a passageway in the lower clamping bushing and continues externally to the upper clamping bushing 30. One rigging line can go back to the boat at this point. At the upper clamping bushing, the rigging line turns on a pulley to enter the middle section. The rigging line will then run in between the middle section and the tip section, traveling down to upper sleeve 101 where it turns on a pulley and runs back in between the middle and top section through a passageway in upper clamping bushing 30. Moving up externally to tip 35 of the outrigger, the rigging line then turns back towards the boat to close the rigging loop, as shown in FIGS. 21a-21c.

[0132] For the internal routing with internal rigging, the outrigger rigging line enters the outrigger at the lower clamping bushing 30. The line then turns on a pulley and runs down in between base section 10 and middle section 15 to the lower plug. At the lower plug, the line turns on a pulley to run in between the middle section tip section 35. The line then passes through a passageway in the upper plug to get to upper clamp bushing 25. One rig can go back to the boat at this point. In the upper clamp bushing is a hidden pulley that turns the rigging back in between the middle section and tip section. The rigging now goes to a pulley in the upper plug to go inside of the tip section, running up to the Spike/Tip. At the Spike/Tip, the line turns back to the boat to close the rigging loop, as shown in FIGS. 21d-21f.

[0133] FIGS. 22a-22d illustrate lower plug 45 (for internal rigging only) that includes roller guides. The lower plug is fastened to the bottom of middle section 15. FIGS. 23a-23d illustrate lower clamping bushing 25 with roller guides. The lower clamping bushing is attached to the top of base section 10. FIGS. 24a-24d illustrate upper plug 40 (for internal rigging only) including roller guides. The upper plug is attached to the first end of top section 20. FIGS. 25a-25d illustrate upper clamping bushing 30 for use with internal rigging. The upper clamping bushing is attached to middle section 15. FIGS. 26a-26d illustrate 35 tip/spike, for internal rigging only.

[0134] FIG. 27a-27c illustrate lower sleeve 100 (for external rigging only) with roller guides. FIGS. 28a-28c illustrate lower clamping bushing 25 for external rigging only, with roller guides. FIGS. 29a-29c illustrate upper sleeve 101 (for external rigging only) with roller guides. FIGS. 30a-30c illustrates upper clamping bushing 130 for use with external rigging. FIGS. 31a-c illustrate top section 135 tip/spike (for external rigging only).

[0135] FIG. 32a illustrates telescoping, internal routing with external rigging in accordance with some embodiments of system 5. FIG. 32b illustrates telescoping internal routing with internal rigging in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0136] The disclosed outrigger system includes many benefits over prior art outrigger systems. Specifically, system 5 provides added convenience for the user, keeping associated fishing boats cleaner and safer without loose lines.

[0137] The disclosed system can be easily installed and is easy to use, without requiring extensive training.

[0138] System 5 allows for the rapid telescoping and extending of outriggers with associated rigging (e.g., rigging lines) wound and unwound within the interior of the base, middle, and top sections. As a result, the rigging is kept neatly stored when not in use, avoiding tangled lines.

[0139] System 5 is aesthetically pleasing, providing for a cleaner look without excess rigging pooled on the boat deck.

[0140] The disclosed system allows a user to organize outrigger rigging/cords and thereby spend less time untangling rigging/cords and more time enjoying sport fishing.

[0141] The fishing application described herein is for illustrative purposes only. To this end, system 5 can be used with any type of telescoping elements, such as (but not limited to) flagpoles.

[0142] Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the embodiments of the invention are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the invention. Moreover, although the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings describe example embodiments in the context of certain example combinations of elements and/or functions, it should be appreciated that different combinations of elements and/or functions may be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. In this regard, for example, different combinations of elements and/or functions than those explicitly described above are also contemplated within the scope of the invention. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.