Abstract: A control method for an illuminating device, which is mounted on an aircraft having an image acquisition apparatus, includes obtaining attitude data of an image acquisition apparatus and rotating the illumination device, according to the attitude data of the image acquisition apparatus, to match an illumination area of the illumination device with a photographing area of the image acquisition apparatus.

Abstract: An optical unit has a lens frame that has a slit in a cylinder, and a blade driving device, comprising an insertion portion for insertion into the slit, wherein an opening, provided in the insertion portion, is disposed between lenses in a lens frame, wherein: the blade driving device comprises a frame that has a recessed lens frame storing portion with the insertion portion protruding; a cylinder of the lens frame comprises a pair of supporting faces that are perpendicular to the optical axis of the lens; and the lens frame storing portion of the frame has contact surfaces that contact each of a pair of supporting faces.

Abstract: An apparatus comprising a processor and a memory. The processor may be configured to (i) receive video frames captured by a capture device and (ii) perform video analysis on the video frames to extract metadata corresponding to objects detected in the video frames. The memory may be configured to (i) store co-ordinates corresponding to a plurality of regions of the video frames and (ii) provide temporary storage for the video frames to enable the processor to perform the video analysis. The video analysis may perform a different amount of processing for detecting the objects on each of the plurality of regions. One of the regions corresponds to a portion of the video frame comprising a hood of a vehicle.

Abstract: A camera device is equipped with at least one imaging unit for imaging a subject, a rotary motor for rotating the imaging unit at a prescribed rotation speed, an output unit for outputting images taken by the imaging unit, and a body which incorporates the imaging unit, the rotary motor, and the output unit. The output unit outputs at least one image, among the images, taken at an imaging position where the imaging unit and the subject are approximately parallel with each other.

Abstract: A camera includes a bracket, a lens base, a lens, a filter, a circuit board, and a photosensitive, chip. The bracket defines a first receiving space, a second receiving space, and a through hole. The through hole is in communication with the first receiving space and the second receiving space. The lens is mounted on the lens base. The filter is received within the first receiving space. The circuit board is mounted on the side of the bracket defining the second receiving space. The photosensitive chip mounted on the circuit board faces the through hole. The bracket includes a heating member and two conductive circuits. The filter is mounted on the heating member such that a periphery of the filter is in contact with the heating member. Each of the two conductive circuit layers is electrically coupled between the heating member and the circuit board to heat the filter.

Abstract: A camera apparatus for hiding a camera operator while continually walking/moving and recording 360-degree images or video, the apparatus including a frame having upper and lower arcuate members that define an operator cavity; and a support member positioned within the cavity that includes a means for carrying the apparatus by the camera operator; a front barrier following the arcuate members that substantially prevents viewing into the cavity, the front barrier having an upper segment that extends downward from the upper arcuate member and permits one way viewing out of the operator cavity; and a rod movably mounted to the frame and extending forward through the front barrier that is configured for attachment to a camera that captures 360-degree images or video.

Abstract: Imaging data or other data captured using a camera may be classified based on data captured using another sensor that is calibrated with the camera and operates in a different modality. Where a digital camera configured to capture visual images is calibrated with another sensor such as a thermal camera, a radiographic camera or an ultraviolet camera, and such sensors capture data simultaneously from a scene, the respectively captured data may be processed to detect one or more objects therein. A probability that data depicts one or more objects of interest may be enhanced based on data captured from calibrated sensors operating in different modalities. Where an object of interest is detected to a sufficient degree of confidence, annotated data from which the object was detected may be used to train one or more classifiers to recognize the object, or similar objects, or for any other purpose.

Abstract: The invention relates to a camera device (10), particularly as a parking assistance apparatus for a motor vehicle with a drive (50) which is in an operative connection via gear means with a camera (4) which is moveable between a retracted position (1) and a deployed position (2), a carriage (11) which embraces the camera (4) and is moveable together with the camera (4), wherein the gear means are configured in such a way that via a manual actuation from the outside (5) the camera (4) is moveable in a further additional position (3) going beyond the retracted position (1).

Abstract: A gimbal comprises a carrying plate, a quick release assembly detachably mounted on the carrying plate and configured to detachably mount the gimbal on an unmanned aerial vehicle, and an angle adjusting mechanism rotatably disposed on the carrying plate and configured to connect with a load and to drive the load to rotate. The quick release assembly and the angle adjusting mechanism are arranged side by side on the carrying plate.

Abstract: A movable platform, comprising a structural element, a display structured and arranged to be coupled to the structural element, a first flexible support with a first end structured and arranged to be coupled to the structural element and a second end structured and arranged to be coupled to a support structure. The platform further comprises a sensor structured and arranged to provide data representative of movement of the display and at least one actuator, wherein the at least one actuator is structured and arranged to move the display based on at least one control signal. The platform further comprises a control module structured and arranged to send the at least one control signal to the at least one actuator, and operable to determine the at least one control signal based on the data representative of movement of the display and a reference signal.

Abstract: A retractable camera platform system allows a mounted camera to be hidden while not in use. The system retracts a camera platform into a recess in the ceiling, wall and the like of a room, building, hallway or other structure. The system includes the camera platform that opens a lowering assembly having doors so that the camera may deploy when needed. The lowering assembly or cover hides the camera and the associated frame structure when not in use. Actuators and linear slide tracks raise and lower the camera as desired. The lowering assembly may be removed from the frame structure.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are provided relating to improved mounting platforms for supporting a payload on a movable object. In one aspect, an apparatus for supporting a payload comprises: a first support member coupled to the payload and configured to rotate the payload; a second support member coupled to the first support member and configured to rotate the first support member relative to the second support member; and a flexible member electrically coupling the first and second support members, wherein a length of the flexible member winds around a portion of the first support member or second support member, such that the length winds up around the portion when the first support member is rotated in a first direction and unwinds from the portion when the first support member is rotated in a second direction.

Abstract: A shutter apparatus limits an image capturing area of an image-capturing apparatus for capturing an image. The shutter apparatus includes a base in which a hole is formed, and a restricting member that surrounds the image-capturing apparatus, wherein the restricting member is divided into a plurality of members, each being operated independently, and received and protruded through the hole of the base.

Abstract: A swing down mount system for mounting a camera gimbal or other viewing/recording device to a helicopter is disclosed. The system comprises a frame, an axle mounted on the frame, an arm attached to the axle, a camera gimbal or other device mounted on the arm, and one or more counterweights. During landing and takeoff, the system is positioned substantially horizontally below the fuselage of the helicopter so that the helicopter can touch down on the ground without interference from the system. In the air, the mount is able to position the camera gimbal below the skids or wheels of the helicopter so that the camera gimbal has a 360-degree field of view that is unobstructed by the structure of the helicopter. When the camera gimbal is moved from one position to another, the counterweights swing in opposition such that the lateral center of gravity remains substantially unchanged or within acceptable limits.

Abstract: A measuring device, in particular a measuring device for remote sensing, has a measuring instrument and an apparatus for movably mounting the measuring instrument. The apparatus has two non-parallel rotation axes. The rotation axes are different from a longitudinal axis of the measuring instrument. The measuring instrument is connected to a rotatable drive element via a power transmission element.

Abstract: A method of transporting a substrate with a substrate support, the method includes defining a frictional breakaway force between the substrate and the substrate support in a horizontal plane, moving the substrate in the horizontal plane along a horizontal trajectory, moving the substrate in a vertical direction along a vertical trajectory simultaneously while moving the substrate in the horizontal plane, and wherein the horizontal trajectory is determined based on the acceleration profile of the vertical trajectory and wherein the horizontal trajectory prevents the moving of the substrate from overcoming the coefficient of friction in the horizontal plane.

Abstract: A retractable camera platform system allows a mounted camera to be hidden while not in use. The system retracts a camera platform into a recess in the ceiling, wall and the like of a room, building, hallway or other structure. The system includes the camera platform that opens a door assembly or a cover so that the camera may operate when needed. The door assembly or cover hides the camera and the associated frame structure when not in use. An actuator and linear slide track raise and lower the camera as desired.

Abstract: The invention relates to a suspension system designed for use with optical devices, such as video cameras. The camera suspension unit includes a platform, outer and middle frames, with the orthogonal intersecting axes of rotation at the midpoint of the unit, rotating drives to rotate the unit about the X, Y and Z axes all controlled by a control unit. The middle frame of the suspension unit is designed as a mechanical parallelogram, having a movable jointed foot, a piston-rod and two cranks, as well as two mechanical links, all of which have an axis of rotation parallel to the middle frame axis of rotation, which is parallel to the Y axis. The outer end of each mechanical link is fastened to a crank while the inner end is fastened to the frame. The inner ends are fastened in a rotatable manner, allowing for the rotation about an axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the cranks.

Abstract: A rotatable camera mount for mounting on a vehicle is described. The mount includes a generally vertically aligned shaft that is coupled to a vehicle via a coupling assembly. A body is rotatably disposed on the shaft and provides a camera-mounting flange along one side and tail and swing-weight assemblies extending from an opposite side. The tail assembly provides a wing that extends into an airflow passing the mount to direct the camera with respect to the airflow. The swing-weight assembly counteracts forces on a camera coupled to the mounting flange when the vehicle encounters a turn to direct the camera into the turn. Rotation of the body about the shaft can be dampened by fluid dampening, brake assemblies, friction dampening, and hard stops. The shaft can be oriented at angle with respect to vertical to bias directing of the camera in a desired direction.

Abstract: A gimbal system. The gimbal system may include space-saving features configured to accommodate one or more payload components, thus increasing the payload capacity of the gimbal ball without necessarily increasing the outer dimensions of the gimbal ball. Alternatively, or in addition, the gimbal system may include a motor configured to move at least one gimbal relative to another gimbal about a first axis, with the motor peripherally mounted distal the axis.

Abstract: A water resistant and electromagnetically shielded turret assembly, suitable for attachment to the undersurface of an unmanned surveillance aircraft. The turret, in its several variations, may contain one or more cameras, and may contain an internal positioning motor, which can be easily accessible for servicing.

Abstract: Embodiments include an assembly comprising: (a) a camera support structure comprising: a masthead disposed on the distal end of a mast wherein the masthead is configured to receive an imaging element; where a proximal end of the mast rotatably engaging an azimuth-elevation joint assembly wherein the azimuth-elevation joint assembly comprises a first angular actuator of a first rotational degree-of-freedom and a second angular actuator of a second rotational degree of freedom; and (b) a camera support structure housing comprising an aperture and a hatch wherein the hatch is resiliently biased to close the aperture; and wherein the camera support structure is configured to overcome the hatch resilient bias by at least one of: the release of a pin restraining a loaded spring and a rotational actuation of the mast via at least one of the first angular actuator and the second angular actuator.

Abstract: An aerostat assembly, specifically an aerostat assembly including one or more cameras for aerial photography and surveillance. The aerostat assembly includes a frame assembly having a pivot assembly joined to a balloon tether line. Thrusters on the frame allow an operator to maneuver the assembly to desired positions as well as rotate the frame assembly about the pivot assembly.

Abstract: An aerial photography mount that features a three-axis gimbal unit that is supported between two posts by elastic straps. Each of the axes rotates within precision bearings that enable smooth operation of a camera secured to the mount. The elastic straps, in conjunction with independently rotating bearings at the end suspension assemblies, provide a enhanced vibration isolation effect. The mount can be further stabilized by the attachment of gyroscopic stabilizers.

Abstract: Camera mount systems are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a camera mount system is provided, including a first and a second axial arm configured to mount a camera system. The camera mount system further includes a plurality of pistons configured to attach the first and the second axial arms to a vehicle frame. The camera mount system also includes a plurality of springs configured to attach the first and the second axial arms to the vehicle frame, wherein the first and the second axial arms are disposed underslung to the vehicle frame, and wherein the pistons enable a first movement of the first and the second axial arms about a geometric plane and the springs enable a second movement of the first and the second axial arms along an axis normal to the geometric plane.

Abstract: A water resistant and electromagnetically shielded turret assembly, suitable for attachment to the undersurface of an unmanned surveillance aircraft. The turret, in its several variations, may contain one or more cameras, and may contain an internal positioning motor, which can be easily accessible for servicing.

Abstract: A device for supporting a camera to facilitate capturing stable images from a moving and vibrating platform, such as a helicopter includes a base plate and a vertical post attached to the base plate and extending upwardly from the base plate. A swing arm is fixed to the top of the vertical post in a manner that allows the swing arm to pivot around a vertical axis of the vertical post. A handle is attached to the swing arm and extends upwardly from the swing arm Suspended from the handle below the swing arm is a fixture for supporting the camera. The fixture supporting the camera includes that reduce the transmission of vibrations and shocks to the camera. The device for supporting a camera can be secured in place inside a helicopter without altering the structural integrity of the helicopter.

Abstract: A device for supporting a camera to facilitate capturing stable images from a moving and vibrating platform, such as a helicopter includes a base plate and a vertical post attached to the base plate and extending upwardly from the base plate. A swing arm is fixed to the top of the vertical post in a manner that allows the swing arm to pivot around a vertical axis of the vertical post. A handle is attached to the swing arm and extends upwardly from the swing arm Suspended from the handle below the swing arm is a fixture for supporting the camera. The fixture supporting the camera includes that reduce the transmission of vibrations and shocks to the camera. The device for supporting a camera can be secured in place inside a helicopter without altering the structural integrity of the helicopter.

Abstract: An aerial support structure for capturing an image of a target via a camera mounted thereon includes a support platform, a frame mounted to the support platform and a beam movably attached to the frame. A camera platform suspends and is axially spaced from the support platform by a plurality of support cables. An actuator is mounted to one of the support platform and the frame, and the actuator is associated with each of the plurality of support cables. Operation of the actuator causes the beam to move with respect to the frame, thereby moving the camera platform relative to the support platform.

Abstract: An optical imaging system is provided for an airborne platform or the like, including an image acquisition unit having an optical axis and configured for providing images in a direction along said axis, the image acquisition unit being mounted to a pointing mechanism configured for selectively pointing said optical axis in a desired direction. The system also has an optical shield configured for shielding said image acquisition unit from receiving undesired electromagnetic radiation from at least one direction different from said desired direction.

Abstract: A lightweight camera mounting assembly allowing for tilt and pan of a camera through a significant portion of a spherical range of views with minimal parts, minimal weight, and a full 360 degree freedom of rotation. A combined retraction and extension assembly for the camera is provided with minimal weight and complexity. The assembly includes doors which open to allow the camera to extend beyond the surface of a vehicle and to close to protect the camera and allow for landing of the vehicle without external skids.

Abstract: A shock and vibration isolator for a movie or video camera has a vertical axis system including a base, an arm pivotably attached to the base, and at least one spring connected to the base and to the arm. One or more dampeners are connected to the base and to the arm. A horizontal axis system is supported by the vertical axis system. A leveling linkage connects the vertical and horizontal axis systems. The leveling linkage has adjustment features that allow for compensation of camera lens angulation caused by movement of the camera supported on a vehicle rolling over rough or uneven ground.

Abstract: A light weight camera mounting assembly allowing for tilt and pan of a camera through a significant portion of a spherical rang of view with minimal parts count, minimal weight and minimal weight in the rotated portion of the assembly. A retraction/extension assembly for a light weight camera with minimal weight and complexity. Doors which open to allow a camera to extend beyond the surface of a vehicle and close to protect the camera and allow for landing of the vehicle without external skids.

Abstract: A lightweight camera mount allowing tilt and pan of a camera turret through a significant portion of a spherical range is disclosed. The camera turret comprised of two hemispheres has a full 360 degree freedom of pan rotation and up to 140 degree of tilt rotation. The mount includes a tilt assembly embedded within the turret and a pan assembly external to the turret. The tilt assembly in communication with a tilt feedback device provides a tilt movement to the turret. The pan portion in communication with a pan feedback device provides a pan movement to the turret. The mount is configured to be mounted on a land based vehicle, a water based vehicle, or an aerial vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention is a camera system having a rigid camera frame to receive a removable shutter and serve as a releasable attachment point for the camera lens system and image receiving means. An adaptor and wedge have complementary contact points that allow constant alignment and orientation of the system components after removal and reattachment without recalibration or realignment. The camera system may be used in a photographic imaging system such as an airborne reconnaissance system.

Abstract: An optical imaging system is provided for an airborne platform or the like, including an image acquisition unit having an optical axis and configured for providing images in a direction along said axis, the image acquisition unit being mounted to a pointing mechanism configured for selectively pointing said optical axis in a desired direction. The system also has an optical shield configured for shielding said image acquisition unit from receiving undesired electromagnetic radiation from at least one direction different from said desired direction.

Abstract: An optical bench for mounting in an interior compartment of a flight pod has a substantially flat top surface. A bottom surface is attached to the top surface. The bottom surface is shaped to conform to a shape of the interior compartment of the flight pod. A core material is placed between the top surface and the bottom surface.

Abstract: An image display method in which a position of a shot image of the ground surface having been taken from the air is specified three-dimensionally, a photographic area on the ground surface having been shot is obtained by computation, and a shot image is transformed in conformity with the photographic area thereof and thereafter displayed being superposed on a map of geographic information system, and in which landmarks are extracted from a map of a geographic information system and a shot image respectively, and the corresponding landmarks are compared, whereby a parameter for use in computing a photographic area having been shot is compensated.

Abstract: A gimbal system. The gimbal system may include space-saving features configured to accommodate one or more payload components, thus increasing the payload capacity of the gimbal ball without necessarily increasing the outer dimensions of the gimbal ball. Alternatively, or in addition, the gimbal system may include a motor configured to move at least one gimbal relative to another gimbal about a first axis, with the motor peripherally mounted distal the axis.

Abstract: An aerial support structure for capturing images of objects in an observed area includes first and second anchors and at least one transport cable mounted to at least one of the first and second anchor. A balloon is mounted to the at least one transport cable and is movable relative to the first and second anchors. A camera is suspended from the balloon.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for a support mechanism are provided. The support mechanism includes an engagement pin including an engagement surface and a latch surface wherein the engagement pin is coupled to a base. The support mechanism also includes a pawl that includes an engagement surface complementary to the pin engagement surface and a latch surface complementary to the pin latch surface wherein the pawl is biased toward engagement of the pawl latch surface with the pin latch surface. The support mechanism also includes a ring latch that includes an annular ring having a toothed edge, the ring latch is coupled to the pawl such that the pawl extends axially away from the ring latch in a direction opposite the toothed edge.

Abstract: An aircraft fuselage element (26) with a fuselage body (30) which forms an internal cavity (40) and which includes a viewing window (32, 34). To provide for taking substantially distortion-free high-resolution pictures in the infrared wavelength range and from a large angular range the fuselage body (30) is mounted for rotation about an axis of rotation (36).

Abstract: An aerial photography apparatus that comprises a remote controlled piloted aircraft, a platform, a camera, and a remote wireless transmitter for operating and controlling the apparatus. The remote controlled piloted aircraft is attached to the top side of the platform. The camera is attached to the bottom side of the platform using a rigid member having a rotatable joint. The remote controlled piloted aircraft lifts and moves the apparatus to a desired location at a specific altitude above a particular property where the panoramic aerial photograph is to be taken. Depending upon the wind forces exerted upon the remote controlled piloted aircraft and the resulting orientation of the aircraft to maintain the camera at the desired location, the rotatable joint enables the gravitational weight of the camera to naturally gravitate to a vertical orientation or position relative to the ground. Alternatively, cushions in the platform or a suspension system may be used to achieve this position for the camera.

Abstract: A gimbal system. The gimbal system may include space-saving features configured to accommodate one or more payload components, thus increasing the payload capacity of the gimbal ball without necessarily increasing the outer dimensions of the gimbal ball. Alternatively, or in addition, the gimbal system may include a motor configured to move at least one gimbal relative to another gimbal about a first axis, with the motor peripherally mounted distal the axis.

Abstract: An electro-optical roll-framing camera is described in which successive overlapping frames of scene imagery are generated by an electro-optical imaging array. Image motion compensation is performed electronically to stop or freeze image motion caused by the roll motion. The image motion compensation is performed by the array during the generation of the frames of imagery. The successive frames of imagery are made during a continuous roll motion of the entire camera (including the array). The image motion due to roll is stopped or frozen without mechanically stopping the roll motion, such as found in prior art step frame cameras. The roll framing cycles of the camera generate sweeping coverage of the terrain of interest. The roll rate for a given electro-optical array is a function of the frame size and the framing rate, and is controllable by a master camera control computer.

Abstract: A modular camera support and extension structure which removably mounts on the seat tracks of a conventional aircraft and extends through a cargo pod door during usage, including a box structure containing a plurality of vertical rails which support a tracking plate positioned inside the box structure with linear bearings around its periphery, slidably mounted on said rails for vertical movement from a retracted position to an extended position; a camera rotatably mounted on the bottom of said tracking plate about a vertical axis; a pair of actuating sprockets connected by a drive chain mounted on the box structure, the drive chain is connected to the tracking plate for moving the FLIR camera from its retracted position to its extended position; a box frame structure mounted on the aircraft skin which includes stops on the box frame which lockingly engage the tracking plate in its extended position.

Abstract: A modular camera support and extension structure which removably mounts on the seat tracks of a conventional aircraft and extends through a cargo pod door during usage, including a box structure containing a plurality of vertical rails which support a tracking plate positioned inside the box structure with linear bearings around its periphery, slidably mounted on said rails for vertical movement from a retracted position to an extended position; a camera rotatably mounted on the bottom of said tracking plate about a vertical axis; a pair of actuating sprockets connected by a drive chain mounted on the box structure, the drive chain is connected to the tracking plate for moving the FLIR camera from its retracted position to its extended position; a box frame structure mounted on the aircraft skin which includes stop means on the box frame which lockingly engages the tracking plate in its extended position and a drive means which forces the tracking plate against the stop means.

Abstract: A method for cutting trees (18) in the vicinity of a power line (10) using a topping saw (17) suspended from a helicopter (15) in such a way that the helicopter is flown in the direction of the power line (10) so close to the electricity wires (12) that the topping saw suspended from the helicopter cuts the desired tops of the trees. The cutting line (14) of the topping saw (17) is determined in such a way that the helicopter is flown with the help of a video camera (21) attached to the suspension bar (16) for the topping saw at an angle of 45° and a monitor (22) placed in connection with the helicopter's cockpit so that the video camera is kept directed towards the electricity wire (12) of the power line (10). The distance (a, b) of the point where trees are to be cut from the electricity wire (12) is determined by adjusting the distance (h) of the video camera from the cutting blade (20) of the topping saw (17).

Abstract: Optical image sensor mounting apparatus to mount an image sensor to a mount structure includes a frame with a pivot coupling and X-Y translation apparatus interconnecting the frame to the mount structure. The pivot coupling is operable to set the angular displacement between the frame and the mount structure and the X-Y translation apparatus is operable to set the translational displacement between the frame and the mount structure. A rotational coupling interconnecting the frame to the mount structure can also be provide, the rotational coupling operable to set the rotational displacement between the frame and the mount structure.

Abstract: An aerial photography mount that features a three-axis gimbal unit that is supported between two posts by elastic straps. Each of the axes rotates within precision bearings that enable smooth operation of a camera secured to the mount. The elastic straps, in conjunction with independently rotating bearings at the end suspension assemblies, provide a enhanced vibration isolation effect. The mount can be further stabilized by the attachment of gyroscopic stabilizers.