| CPC E05B 47/023 (2013.01) [E05B 2047/0054 (2013.01); E05B 2047/0067 (2013.01); E05B 2047/0074 (2013.01)] | 20 Claims |

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1. A magnetic release mechanism for use with underwater fishing equipment comprising a buoyant element, the magnetic release mechanism comprising:
a base plate having an upwardly facing surface that includes a buckle recess and a release plate area, the area having a first end and a second end, the area overlying at least a portion of the buckle recess;
a buckle having a first end releasably received in the recess, wherein an aperture extends through a width of the buckle;
a release plate positioned in the area and extending at least partially through the aperture, the release plate having a first end and a second end;
a mechanical restraining member positioned proximate the first end of the area and inhibiting upward displacement of the first end of the release plate;
a permanent magnet positioned proximate the second end of the area and below the area, the permanent magnet generating a first magnetic field;
an electromagnetic coil positioned proximate the permanent magnet and configured to selectively generate a second magnetic field when energized; and
a magnetic sensor positioned below the area and between the permanent magnet and the first end of the area, the sensor being configured to detect the presence of a third magnetic field;
wherein, in a locked configuration, the electromagnetic coil is de-energized, upward displacement of the second end of the release plate is inhibited by a first magnetic force resulting from the first magnetic field, and an upward force exerted on the buckle by the buoyant element is insufficient to displace the first end of the buckle from the recess, and
wherein, in an unlocked configuration, the electromagnetic coil is energized, upward displacement of the second end of the release plate is inhibited by a second magnetic force resulting from the first magnetic field and the second magnetic field, the second magnetic force being less than the first magnetic force, and the upward force exerted on the buckle by the buoyant element is sufficient to displace the first end of the buckle from the recess.
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