Guidance on motor for physcially challenged project

Help & Support Robot Parts
1

I’m working on a project for the physically challenged that I need some help - I’m working with folks that only have the ability to use 1 hand/arm so they need assistance with a number of things to be more independent. The project we have is for fishing - and there are two parts 1.) motorized fishing reel, and 2.) assistance with baiting. For the reel we’d like to use a standard Zebco like reel with the motor attached where the handle normally is - this will only be used for pan fish (2-3lbs) so the fish will not be big, but the motor still needs to be small, with high torque and I don’t want it destroyed if the motor stalls. The RPM should be 100-200 RPM, and there is a 12VDC source available. What would you recommend?

Thanks in advance
Dan Johnson

I’m sure I’ll have more questions when it comes to the bait assist :slight_smile:

2

Do you have an idea of the torque and size requirements? Just because a fish is 2-3 pounds, does not mean it won’t kick up a fight and require quite a bit more force to be reeled in.
Torque is calculated as force times distance.
Also, how would you want to control the actuator and do you have an idea of the parts you need?
You might try sketching it all in Google Sketchup (with accurate dimensions).

3

Thank you for the quick reply - I’ll draw something up and post it but here are my initial thoughts

  • The goal is to have something light weight and easy to use
  • I have not bought anything yet - I’m just planning and seeking input
  • there will be a utility box to hold the 12VDC battery, on/off switch, battery charge indicator, variable speed dial, and this is where I’d like to add the bait assist arm/gripper
  • Wire to connect the battery box to the rod/reel/motor
  • I assume the motor will be attached to the shaft where normally the reel handle would be
  • there will be a bracket attached tot he rod that will hold the motor in place
  • there will be a button on the reel or rod to activate the motor and pull in the line
  • I estimate the reel retrieves 6 inches on line / rotation
  • I estimate the max speed of the motor should be 150-200 RPM
  • I would like to have a variable speed for different uses (simple retrieve or using a spinner)
  • I estimate the max load to be 5lbs

Thanks for the input!
Dan