Camera Removable From Handheld Casing Patents (Class 396/27)
  • Patent number: 11637951
    Abstract: A remote control device for generating setting signals for a lens setting motor of a motion picture camera comprises a base part and an operating element rotatable relative to the base part for setting control commands for the lens setting motor; a position encoder for detecting a respective rotational position of the operating element and generating corresponding position signals; an evaluation and control device that is configured to determine setting signals for the lens setting motor in dependence on the position signals in accordance with a mapping rule; and an output device for transmitting the setting signals to the motion picture camera. In this respect, the mapping rule corresponds to at least one mathematical functional relationship and the remote control device has an input device via which the mathematical functional relationship can be configured by user input. A marking ring for a remote control device has a memory in which a readable coding is stored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Assignee: Arnold & Richter Cine Technik GmbH & Co. Betriebs KG
    Inventor: Hendrik Voss
  • Patent number: 11231638
    Abstract: A mobile device case includes a soft protective housing defining a camera-lens aperture and a touchscreen display aperture, and a lens attachment interface including a capture plate protruding into the camera-lens aperture sufficient to overlap a coupling interface of a removable lens assembly along the optical path of the miniature camera module, and a catch to facilitate stable locking coupling of the removable lens assembly in optical alignment with the miniature camera module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Assignee: Moment Inc
    Inventors: Marc Barros, Erik Hedberg, Robert John Lincoln, Miguel Christophy, Kent Suzuki, Josh Baxley, Phillip Pasqual, Jessica Livak, Audrey Louchart
  • Patent number: 11025802
    Abstract: A camera housing includes a first housing portion having a cavity to receive a camera and a second housing portion comprising a removable door to secure the camera in the cavity. The first housing portion includes a first fastening structure and a first hinge structure. The second housing portion includes a second fastening structure and a second hinge structure. The second hinge structure couples to the first hinge structure to form a hinge about which the removable door rotates. The second housing portion and the first housing portion enclose the cavity to secure the camera when the removable door is rotated into a closed position and the first fastening structure is coupled to the second fastening structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: GoPro, Inc.
    Inventor: Nicholas D. Woodman
  • Patent number: 11009776
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a camera system, comprising: a camera operative to capture an image, said camera comprising a power input port for coupling to a power supply assembly; a housing for supporting said camera, said housing comprising an opening, wherein said opening is arranged to provide access to said power input port; a removable panel engageable to said housing to cover said opening by a security fastener to secure said removable panel to said housing in a cover configuration, said removable panel comprising a formation for engaging with at least one portion of said power supply assembly in said cover configuration to restrain movement of said power supply assembly to maintain a coupled arrangement of said power supply assembly and said power input port in said cover configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Inventors: Robert George Grant, Graham Keith Lambert
  • Patent number: 10845958
    Abstract: System and method for controlling an image-recording device are disclosed. The image-recording device includes a control button. The method may include: starting a menu page, the menu page having a plurality of action instructions; receiving a press on the control button; when the press is a first preset press type, selecting one of the plurality of action instructions based on a sliding operation on the menu page, wherein one action instruction is selected at each time of sliding; and when the press is a second preset press type, executing a currently selected action instruction and closing the menu page. The first preset press type is one of a long press and a short press. The second preset press type is the other one of a long press and a short press. The long press has a longer pressing time than the short press.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Assignee: SHANGHAI XIAOYI TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Zhisong Qu, Xuewu Zhang, Changjiang Wei
  • Patent number: 10834916
    Abstract: A camera mount may include a base member having a rear face to face a support structure and a front face, the front face a curved guide surface, a camera support having a rear face facing the front face of the base member, the rear face of the camera support comprising a guide abutting surface and a retainer resiliently biasing the guide abutting surface against the curved guide surface to releasably retain the camera support at one of a plurality of different positions along the curved guide surface and at one of a plurality of different available orientations relative to the support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Inventor: Andrae T. D'Acquisto
  • Patent number: 10782519
    Abstract: A viewing method and apparatus are provided for inspecting a cleaned pipeline. The method comprises providing the viewing apparatus of a cleaned pipeline and pushing the viewing apparatus to an outlet end of the pipeline. During traverse of the pipeline a camera captures pictures of the interior of the pipeline and stores the pictures on an onboard memory. The captured pictures can be viewed on a screen to show the interior of the pipeline to provide a reference for cleaning, replacement or repair of the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: MUN SIONG ENGINEERING LIMITED
    Inventors: Wei-Bin Wang, Chien-Yuan Huang
  • Patent number: 10753530
    Abstract: A quick-release mounting structure of an action camera casing includes a casing for accommodating an action camera, an insert member, a circular sleeve, a fixing member, and a quick-release assembly. An underside of the casing is provided with a coupling portion. The insert member is in a cylindrical shape and has a pivot end at an upper end thereof. The pivot end and the coupling portion are pivotally connected together by a coupling bolt. The circular sleeve is provided with an axial slit. An underside of the circular sleeve is provided with a coupling end. The insert member is inserted into the circular sleeve. The fixing member is provided with a pivot portion. The pivot portion and the coupling end are pivotally connected together by a bolt assembly. The quick-release assembly includes a fastening collar. The fastening collar is fitted onto the circular sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: FUL CHEE ENT CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yu-Chen Liu
  • Patent number: 10754227
    Abstract: A cover for a camera body having a hot shoe and an attached lens has a flexible sleeve that has an opening for the end of the lens and an opening through which the camera body and lens can be inserted and through which the camera body can be manipulated. The sleeve is provided with a clear panel or window for viewing the camera body. The cover has a connector attached to the sleeve and protruding inwardly for detachable connection to the hot shoe of the camera body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: Think Tank Photo, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Allen Sturm
  • Patent number: 10705410
    Abstract: A shrinkable camera skin assembly for altering the appearance of a camera body includes a camera wrap is positionable around a camera body to alter the appearance of the camera body. The camera wrap has a plurality of openings therein each being aligned with respective structural features of the camera body. A lens wrap is wrapped around a body of a camera lens to alter the appearance of the body of the camera lens. A hood wrap is wrapped around a lens hood to alter the appearance of the lens hood. Each of the camera wrap, the lens wrap and the hood wrap is comprised of a heat shrink material. Thus, the camera, lens and hood wraps can shrink around the respective camera body, camera lens and lens hood.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Inventor: Jeffrey Wilson
  • Patent number: 10466806
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a control unit configured to perform control, in a first operation mode, to execute first processing in a case where a first detection unit, which is for detecting an operation indicating a first direction, detects an operation, to execute second processing in a case where the second detection unit, which is for detecting an operation indicating a second direction, detects an operation, and to execute third processing in a case where the second detection unit further detects an operation, and in a second operation mode, to execute fourth processing in a case where the first detection unit detects an operation, to execute fifth processing in a case where the second detection unit detects an operation, and to continuously execute the fourth processing in a case where the second detection unit further detects an operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Assignee: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Yuichiro Ishitsuka
  • Patent number: 10372021
    Abstract: A magnetic actuator can be slid in the X and Y direction along a housing or other substrate, and depressed in the Z direction, where desired, activating a button. This is accomplished by way of magnetically engaging one, two, or more ring magnets on either side of the substrate, defining a plane. Central magnets are placed within these ring magnets and can be held in place further by a circumferential sleeve between the central magnet and the ring magnet, as well as between a ring magnet and the substrate. By arranging the polarities of the magnets, the central magnet on one side of the substrate is held away from the substrate, while, on the other side, the central magnet is held against the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Inventor: Anthony S Lenzo
  • Patent number: 10362217
    Abstract: This disclosure has disclosed a novel device for operating touch screen underwater, including a hollow shell, the shell includes a bottom shell and a middle frame. The bottom shell is provided with a camera window. The shell is provided with a partition plate. The partition plate divides the shell into a first chamber configured to accommodate a mobile phone, and a second chamber configured to accommodate a camera controller. The camera controller is provided with a plurality of buttons which are configured to control the mobile phone camera shooting. The middle frame is covered with a movable surface cover at upward side. The surface cover is provided with a transparent window for showing the screen at an upper part of the surface cover. The device in this disclosure can control the mobile phone to shoot underwater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2019
    Inventor: Xiuhong Deng
  • Patent number: 9904328
    Abstract: A protective cover in two parts for a portable electronic device includes a first cover, a second cover, and a locking mechanism. The first cover and the second cover form a receiving cavity, to receive a portable electronic device. The locking mechanism includes a movable member, a latch member, and at least one unlocking member. The latch member is engaged with the movable member, each unlocking member is configured for loosening restrictions on movement of the movable member. The movable member can be driven to rotate the latch member relative to the first cover to latch and lock the latch member to the second cover, or to unlatch and unlock the latch member from the second cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignees: NANNING FUGUI PRECISION INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chun-Ting Lan
  • Patent number: 9823157
    Abstract: An apparatus for close visual inspection of subsea pipelines comprises a housing with a chamber that has an open side. The open side is adapted to be placed in sealing engagement against the pipeline. The chamber is flooded with clear water to improve the visual view. It is also described an apparatus for identification of a plume exiting from a leak The apparatus comprises a housing defining a chamber with a water permeable side that is adapted to face downward during use, and thereby being exposed to the exiting substance. A gas pressurizing device for creates a gas/water interface within the housing. An imaging device arranged above the water surface is adapted to image the water surface and detect id the water surface is being disturbed by the plume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2017
    Assignee: Universitetet i Stavanger
    Inventors: Jasper Ahamefula Agbakwuru, Ove Tobias Gudmestad
  • Patent number: 9791893
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a first housing component including a side wall portion surrounding an electronic component; a concave portion provided in the side wall portion of the first housing component; a second housing component whose edge portion is arranged on the side wall portion of the first housing component; a seal member which has elasticity and waterproofness and which is arranged between the side wall portion of the first housing component and the edge portion of the second housing component; and a fixing component which includes a first claw portion that comes into contact with an upper surface of the edge portion of the second housing component and a second claw portion that fits into the concave portion of the side wall portion of the first housing component and which fixes the second housing component onto the first housing component by the first claw portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventors: Shingo Yamaguchi, Satoshi Watanabe, Hayato Shida
  • Patent number: 9787884
    Abstract: An audio capture system for a sports camera includes at least one “enhanced” microphone and at least one “reference” microphone. The enhanced microphone includes a drainage enhancement feature to enable water to drain from the microphone more quickly than the reference microphone. A microphone selection controller selects between the microphones based on a microphone selection algorithm to enable high quality in conditions where the sports camera transitions in and out of water during activities such as surfing, water skiing, swimming, or other wet environments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: GoPro, Inc.
    Inventors: Erich Tisch, Joyce Rosenbaum, Magnus Hansson, Evan L. Coons, Alexander Wroblewski
  • Patent number: 9699360
    Abstract: A camera housing includes an integrated expansion module for providing expanded functionality to a camera (e.g., a display screen). Different embodiments of the housing include different expansion modules for adding a variety of features to the camera when the camera is placed in the housing. Thus, a user may modify features of a camera by swapping the housing. Furthermore, a user may add a feature to an existing camera without needing to purchase a new camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2017
    Assignee: GoPro, Inc.
    Inventor: Nicholas D. Woodman
  • Patent number: 9594294
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a mount for a wired device, the mount comprising: a base (10), an attachment part (20) provided with a terminal (21), and an eccentric hinge (14) having a first pivot (15) a second pivot (16), said second pivot (16) being movable relative said first pivot (15) in a plane defined by a first direction X parallel to said mount plane (42) and by a second direction Z normal to said mount plane (42), said attachment part (20) being releasably connectable to said base (10) by means of said eccentric hinge (14), wherein said attachment part (20), when connected to said base (10), is movable between an open position, providing access to said terminal (21), and a closed position. The distance (d) between said first pivot (15) and said second pivot (16) in said closed position has a first component (dX) in said first direction X and a second component (dZ) in said second direction Z, said first component (dX) being greater than said second component (dZ).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Assignee: Axis AB
    Inventor: Olle Linden
  • Patent number: 9395031
    Abstract: A camera mount is configured to securely couple a camera to an object. The camera mount includes a rail mount component and a sliding mount component which can be securely coupled, resulting in a low profile, easy to use camera mount. The rail mount component includes a rail base and two rail wings. The sliding mount component is configured to be inserted into the rail mount component. The sliding amount component further includes two levers and a sliding base with a plurality of protrusions for coupling to a reciprocal mount component. Each lever of the sliding mount component includes a pin and wedge that abut the inside of the rail base to secure the sliding mount component to the rail mount component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignee: GoPro, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher Aaron Clearman
  • Patent number: 9241096
    Abstract: A camera system includes a camera and a housing that is structured to at least partially enclose the camera. The camera includes a touch-sensitive surface that can be used to receive user input. The camera housing includes a touch-through membrane in a position that allows the membrane to align with the touch-sensitive surface when the camera is placed in the housing. The membrane transfers a user's gestures so that any touch gestures that are performed on the exterior surface of the membrane are transferred to the touch-sensitive surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2016
    Assignee: GoPro, Inc.
    Inventors: Rudy L. Samuels, Fabrice Barbier, Evan L. Coons, David C. Northway
  • Patent number: 9075292
    Abstract: A method for camouflaging a trail camera in a variety of natural environments by sequentially using a variety of interchangeable camouflaged covers. Also disclosed is a camouflaged cover for a trail camera, and a kit containing a plurality of variously camouflaged covers for camouflaging a trail camera in a variety of natural environments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Inventor: Gavin Brown
  • Patent number: 8903229
    Abstract: A universal underwater enclosure has a spherical shell having a hollow in which a camera, camcorder, or other device can be inserted, a lens attached to the shell that can be opened to insert a device, and glove assemblies extending into the hollow for manipulation of a device placed therein. The glove assemblies have fingers and not full gloves, reducing the dimensions of the enclosure—thereby minimizing buoyancy. A mounting system attaches to a device's tripod mount receptor, fixes the device, and allows it to be adjusted in three dimensions. A pressure equalization system relieves stress on the enclosure, which exhibits neutral buoyancy. A flash mounted on the shell operates independently of any device. Modular lens pods replace the lens to accommodate various other lenses. The glove assemblies have perimeter lips secured to the shell by fasteners and a bezel around teardrop-shaped cut-out holes in the shell. The fingers allow access to all of a device's controls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: SalamanderSkinz, LLC
    Inventors: Peter Ghali, Jay Huntington
  • Patent number: 8787745
    Abstract: The invention comprises an underwater camera housing having a body and handles on the body. The body also carries a pad positioned on the body so that the pad is accessible for use by a user substantially without the user being required to remove a hand from the most adjacent handle. The pad is able to be pressed at any point of its periphery and links mounted on the body between the pad and, in use, a position adjacent the controls of a camera are such that by pressing the pad the camera controls can be operated. The links comprise a compound lever system which in use extend between the pad and the multi selector of the camera when positioned within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Nauticam International Limited
    Inventor: Yuk Shing Lai
  • Patent number: 8786696
    Abstract: An improved protector allows the operation of camera buttons to operate at greater depths through use of a “see-saw” mechanism proximate the camera buttons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventor: Kenneth Kam-Sing Ho
  • Patent number: 8781312
    Abstract: A protective cover for a camera having a lens and an image viewer, the protective cover comprises a molded elasticized housing forming a chamber having a body shaped portion and a lens shaped portion for receiving the camera and lens respectively. The housing has at least one opening with a peripheral edge. A fastening system is provided for the opening. The fastening system has an internal fastener attachable to a part of the camera and an external fastener attachable to the internal fastener. The internal fastener and external fastener capture therebetween the peripheral edge of the lens opening when secured to each other, and the external fastener is being movable from a rest view position to an alternate view position to view a wider area of the camera or lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventors: Jose Carlos Ferreira deSouza, Jr., Roberto Ferreira deSouza Miglioli
  • Publication number: 20140153914
    Abstract: A case that accommodates electronic components therein is described. The case includes a plurality of parts that are configured to engage with each other by a snap-fit joint. At least one part of the plurality of parts includes a groove unit. A width of the groove unit is gradually reduced away from the snap-fit joint. The groove unit is formed in an inner surface of the at least one part of the plurality of parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Masahiro Shirono
  • Patent number: 8718457
    Abstract: Disclosed camera cases are configured to be positioned around a camera such that the camera is retained within the case while remaining operable. The case can have a generally cuboid shape with front, rear, top, bottom, left and right sides. At least two of these sides can comprise at least one mounting feature, such as a threaded hole. The rear side can comprise a door configured to allow a camera to be inserted into the case. The rear door can comprise an adjustable portion that can be coupled to the rear door in at least two different positions, such that the case is adjustable to be used with cameras of different sizes. A trigger button on a side of the case can be configured to activate a camera button positioned on a top side of a camera within the case. The case can be dirt and moisture resistant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Unruly, LLC
    Inventors: Jim Clark, David A. deSousa
  • Publication number: 20140079378
    Abstract: A universal underwater enclosure has a spherical shell having a hollow in which a camera, camcorder, or other device can be inserted, a lens attached to the shell that can be opened to insert a device, and glove assemblies extending into the hollow for manipulation of a device placed therein. The glove assemblies have fingers and not full gloves, reducing the dimensions of the enclosure—thereby minimizing buoyancy. A mounting system attaches to a device's tripod mount receptor, fixes the device, and allows it to be adjusted in three dimensions. A pressure equalization system relieves stress on the enclosure, which exhibits neutral buoyancy. A flash mounted on the shell operates independently of any device. Modular lens pods replace the lens to accommodate various other lenses. The glove assemblies have perimeter lips secured to the shell by fasteners and a bezel around teardrop-shaped cut-out holes in the shell. The fingers allow access to all of a device's controls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: SALAMANDERSKINZ, LLC
    Inventors: Peter GHALI, Jay HUNTINGTON
  • Patent number: 8638392
    Abstract: A camera housing includes an integrated expansion module for providing expanded functionality to a camera (e.g., a display screen). Different embodiments of the housing include different expansion modules for adding a variety of features to the camera when the camera is placed in the housing. Thus, a user may modify features of a camera by swapping the housing. Furthermore, a user may add a feature to an existing camera without needing to purchase a new camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Woodman Labs, Inc.
    Inventor: Nicholas D. Woodman
  • Patent number: 8634710
    Abstract: Disclosed is an underwater camera housing capable of receiving and holding a camera having an electronic viewfinder and a proximity sensor. The housing carries an element to optionally allow or substantially prevent the operation of the proximity sensor. In one embodiment the mechanism to optionally allow or substantially prevent the operation of the proximity sensor includes a material substantially non-reflective to electromagnetic waves emitted for receipt by the proximity sensor. In a second embodiment the mechanism to optionally allow or substantially prevent the operation of the proximity sensor includes a substantially reflective device able to reflect sufficient electromagnetic waves emitted for receipt by the proximity sensor away from the proximity sensor so as to substantially prevent operation of the proximity sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Nauticam International Limited
    Inventor: Yuk Shing Lai
  • Patent number: 8627777
    Abstract: A water-resistant connector for use with fabric and sheet-like material comprises two plates stitched to each other on either side of and through the fabric or sheet-like material with at least one gasket made of an elastomeric material such as neoprene being placed between one of the plates and the fabric or sheet-like material. The gasket is stitched through and compressed between the plates so as to press against the stitching for water resistance. A suitable elastomeric material is a sheet of elastomeric compound adhered to either side of a reinforcing scrim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Think Tank Photo, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Sturm, Douglas Harland Murdoch
  • Publication number: 20130315577
    Abstract: Disclosed camera cases are configured to be positioned around a camera such that the camera is retained within the case while remaining operable. The case can have a generally cuboid shape with front, rear, top, bottom, left and right sides. At least two of these sides can comprise at least one mounting feature, such as a threaded hole. The rear side can comprise a door configured to allow a camera to be inserted into the case. The rear door can comprise an adjustable portion that can be coupled to the rear door in at least two different positions, such that the case is adjustable to be used with cameras of different sizes. A trigger button on a side of the case can be configured to activate a camera button positioned on a top side of a camera within the case. The case can be dirt and moisture resistant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2012
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Inventors: Jim Clark, David A. deSousa
  • Patent number: 8588596
    Abstract: A universal underwater enclosure has a spherical shell having a hollow in which a camera or other device can be inserted, a lens attached to the shell that can be opened to insert a device, and glove assemblies extending into the hollow for manipulating a device placed therein. The glove assemblies are not full gloves, reducing the dimensions of the enclosure—thereby minimizing buoyancy. A mounting system attaches to a device's tripod mount receptor, fixes the device, and allows it to be adjusted in three dimensions. A pressure equalization system relieves stress on the enclosure, which exhibits neutral buoyancy. A flash mounted on the shell operates independently of any device. Modular lens pods replace the lens to accommodate various other lenses. The glove assemblies have perimeter lips secured to the shell by fasteners and a bezel around teardrop-shaped holes in the shell. The fingers allow access to a device's controls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: SalamanderSkinz, LLC
    Inventors: Peter Ghali, Jay Huntington
  • Patent number: 8564950
    Abstract: This disclosure relates generally to an apparatus for covering at least part of a mobile computing device having a touch screen display and a switch that is actuated by a motion that is at least in part lateral to a surface of a housing that houses the mobile computing device. The apparatus includes an encasement that enables operation of the touch screen display and covers at least part of the mobile computing device that includes the switch, the encasement having an outer surface and an inner surface. The apparatus further includes a switch mechanism including a switch actuator protruding from the outer surface of the encasement and covered by a flexible seal attached to the encasement. The switch mechanism includes a switch interface provided proximate the inner surface of the encasement to contact the switch, and is coupled with the switch actuator such that a movement of the switch actuator controls a movement of the switch interface to actuate the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: TreeFrog Developments, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary Rayner
  • Patent number: 8544643
    Abstract: A waterproof camera case includes first and second case members and a lock mechanism for locking the first and second case members together. The lock mechanism includes a side flip hingedly connected to a side of the rear case member and moveable between a flip open position and a flip closed position where an inner surface of the side flip abuts against a side of the front case member. A press member is pivotable about a first shaft mounted on the inner surface of the side flip and moveable between a non-pressing position and a pressing position. A free distal side of the press member is configured to press against a ledge projected from the side of the front case member on a surface oppositely facing the rear case member. A lock member is slidable along a second shaft mounted on the inner surface of the side flip and moveable between an unlocked position and a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Zear Corporation Limited
    Inventor: Wai Lam William Yim
  • Publication number: 20130223828
    Abstract: In a camera according to the present invention, a lens barrel is detachably attached to a camera body, and a waterproof case accommodating the lens barrel therein is detachably attached to the camera body. A locking/unlocking mechanism locks and unlocks the lens barrel and the waterproof case. The locking/unlocking mechanism includes a lens barrel lock pin and a case lock pin disposed on the camera body, a pin hole formed in the lens barrel and into which the lens barrel lock pin can be fitted, another pin hole formed in the waterproof case and into which the case lock pin can be fitted, an unlocking button disposed on the camera body, and a relay mechanism which allows both the lock pins to retract individually and which retracts both the lock pins in accordance with an unlocking operation of the unlocking button.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: SANYO Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: SANYO Electric Co., Ltd.
  • Patent number: 8483554
    Abstract: An electronic device is provided that includes a housing, a waterproof air-permeable membrane, a door, an air pressure gauge and a watertightness detector. The housing defines an opening and includes an air vent. The waterproof air-permeable membrane blocks off the air vent. The door is shiftably coupled to the housing and movable between a first position that uncovers the opening and a second position that covers the opening. The door and the housing form a watertight structure when the door is in the second position. The air pressure gauge is disposed inside the watertight structure. The watertightness detector is configured to determine whether the housing and the door have maintained a watertight state based on changes in the air pressure inside the watertight structure when the door moves from the first to the second position. The changes in the air pressure are measured by the air pressure gauge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Aya Takimoto, Hirotsugu Matsuura, Yuji Tominaga
  • Patent number: 8457481
    Abstract: “Hermetic flexible bag to protect cameras and portable electronic equipment” which comprises a set formed by the following components: a flexible bag, UV filter, eye-window and in some embodiments the set can also present a flash support and a tripod connection. The flexibility of the manufacturing material enables that the same hermetic flexible bag be used with several types of equipment of similar shape and size. It also provides protection for the equipment without making its use difficult. The equipment is always protected and ready to be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventors: Roberto Ferreira de Souza Miglioli, Jose Carlos Ferreira De Souza
  • Patent number: 8437630
    Abstract: A camera housing for underwater use comprising a turbulence-reducing design, a recess for mounting a camera, attachment means, and stabilizing outer shell and keel design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventor: David Howard Wessner
  • Patent number: 8378210
    Abstract: A waterproof case for an electronic device includes a case portion configured to house an electronic device including a touch panel display, and an operation mechanism provided to the case portion and configured to operate the touch panel display of the electronic device, which is housed in the case portion, from an outside of the case portion. In the waterproof case, the operation mechanism includes a push button, a return spring configured to energize the push button toward the outside of the case portion, a moving lever configured to move in a pressing direction when the push button is pressed toward an inside of the case portion, and an operation lever configured to rotate in a direction approximately orthogonal to the pressing direction so as to bring a contact portion into contact with a predetermined region of the touch panel display when being pressed by the moving lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Maki Taguchi
  • Patent number: 8368748
    Abstract: An improved protector allows the operation of camera buttons to operate at greater depths through use of a “see-saw” mechanism proximate the camera buttons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventor: Kenneth Kam-Sing Ho
  • Patent number: 8295896
    Abstract: A waterproof cover for a mobile phone including: a cover body having the same outward appearance as a mobile phone to accommodate the mobile phone therein, the cover body being made of polyurethane in such a way that the cover body is in a close contact with the mobile phone to be accommodated therein, the cover body having a receiving hole formed on a front face of the cover body for allowing the mobile phone to be inserted into and removed from the cover body; and an adhesive member being continuously releasably-adhered on the front face of the cover body to seal and open the receiving hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Mayplus Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hyoung Jin Jeon
  • Patent number: 8265469
    Abstract: An operating mechanism for an underwater camera housing includes a shaft adapted to allow in use the shaft to pass through the wall of the underwater camera housing. A sealing element on the shaft allow in use the shaft to be sealed to the underwater camera housing in a substantially waterproof manner. A first pressure device is mounted on the shaft and positioned in use outside the underwater camera housing, and a second pressure device is associated with the shaft and positioned in use within the underwater camera housing. A torque adjustment element is provided between the first pressure device and the second pressure device such that in normal use any feel of resistance to movement of the second pressure device is increased when felt on the first pressure device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Nauticam International Limited
    Inventor: Yuk Shing Lai
  • Patent number: 8260128
    Abstract: A water-resistant connector for use with fabric and sheet-like material comprises two plates stitched to each other on either side of and through the fabric or sheet-like material with at least one gasket made of an elastomeric material such as neoprene being placed between one of the plates and the fabric or sheet-like material. The gasket is stitched through and compressed between the plates so as to press against the stitching for water resistance. A suitable elastomeric material is a sheet of elastomeric compound adhered to either side of a reinforcing scrim. A rain cover for a camera and lens includes a water-resistant connector attached on the outside to a neck strap and on the inside to a strap system secured to the camera and lens whereby the camera and lens can be supported by the neck strap when the rain cover is protecting the camera and lens. A gasket may be provided encircling an eyepiece of the camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Think Tank Photo, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Sturm, Douglas Harland Murdoch
  • Patent number: 8244118
    Abstract: A control system for an underwater camera housing, including a pin assembly within the housing wall. The pin has a clamp ring and a set of O-rings at an end of the pin. The pin is received into a well in the housing. A spring is received into a bushing also positioned within the well, with the pin inserted into the center of the spring, and the spring compressed against the seat of the bushing by the clamp ring. The pin is depress-able to contact a control button of the housed camera. The control system additionally includes a knob rotatably attached to the housing's exterior. The knob has a boss magnet to move a worker magnet positioned on the housing's interior. The knob is rotatable to move the boss magnet, and so move the worker magnet, to control functions of the housed camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Gregg M. Stansbury
  • Publication number: 20120189289
    Abstract: A universal underwater enclosure has a spherical shell having a hollow in which a camera or other device can be inserted, a lens attached to the shell that can be opened to insert a device, and glove assemblies extending into the hollow for manipulating a device placed therein. The glove assemblies are not full gloves, reducing the dimensions of the enclosure—thereby minimizing buoyancy. A mounting system attaches to a device's tripod mount receptor, fixes the device, and allows it to be adjusted in three dimensions. A pressure equalization system relieves stress on the enclosure, which exhibits neutral buoyancy. A flash mounted on the shell operates independently of any device. Modular lens pods replace the lens to accommodate various other lenses. The glove assemblies have perimeter lips secured to the shell by fasteners and a bezel around teardrop-shaped holes in the shell. The fingers allow access to a device's controls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Inventors: Peter Ghali, Jay Huntington
  • Patent number: 8200074
    Abstract: An underwater camera apparatus for use in obtaining photograph images of underwater structures is disclosed. The apparatus is comprised of a sealed box having a defined interior space with a transparent front face. A lens adaptor is mounted in an opening on the rear face of the box and a camera having a lens is mounted onto the lens adaptor. The box is provided with a removable cap plate allowable sealable access to the interior space of the box. The removable cap plate is used to fill the box with clear water to assist in making the apparatus buoyant neutral in an underwater environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Inventor: Paige Melancon
  • Patent number: 8155510
    Abstract: A universal underwater enclosure has a spherical shell having a hollow in which a camera, camcorder, or other device can be inserted, a lens attached to the shell that can be opened to insert a device, and glove assemblies extending into the hollow for manipulation of a device placed therein. The glove assemblies have fingers and not full gloves, reducing the dimensions of the enclosure—thereby minimizing buoyancy. A mounting system attaches to a device's tripod mount receptor, fixes the device, and allows it to be adjusted in three dimensions. A pressure equalization system relieves stress on the enclosure, which exhibits neutral buoyancy. A flash mounted on the shell operates independently of any device. Modular lens pods replace the lens to accommodate various other lenses. The glove assemblies have perimeter lips secured to the shell by fasteners and a bezel around teardrop-shaped cut-out holes in the shell. The fingers allow access to all of a device's controls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: SalamanderSkinz, LLC
    Inventors: Peter Ghali, Jay Huntington
  • Patent number: RE45179
    Abstract: A case for a portable electronic device such as cell phones, cameras, MP3 players and PDAs wherein said case includes material at the corners to provide protection to the electronic device. To reduce bulk at the corners and allow the material forming the case to conform with the contours of the device, the protection at the corners includes strips of material defining apertures there between. The apertures provide reduction in bulk and allow the case to conform to the corners of the device therein. Alternately, the protection at the corners can be provided by other structures co-molded into the corners of the cases. Such structures include material that is of a reduced thickness than other material used in the case, or structures that are formed to conform to the corners of the case. Such structures can be joined to the material forming the panels of the case by co-molding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Speculative Product Design, LLC
    Inventors: Patrick M. Bodkin, Gregg Flender, Mike Tracz