Abstract: A lens unit includes: a lens barrel; a movable section including a movable lens and configured to be moved in an optical axis direction relative to the lens barrel; a linear actuator configured to move the movable section in the optical axis direction; and a biasing blade spring including a holding portion for holding the movable section, a plurality of spring portions capable of being elastically deformed and biasing the movable section in the optical axis direction, and an attachment portion to be attached to the lens barrel. The plurality of spring portions of the biasing blade spring are configured to restraint a movement force produced at the movable section in a plane orthogonal to the optical axis.

Abstract: In the preferred embodiment, the camera system for a hunting weapon includes a camera subsystem, a mounting mechanism adapted to mount to the hunting weapon, a bushing located between the camera subsystem and the mounting mechanism and adapted to reduce the propagation of undesirable motion and vibrations from the hunting weapon to the camera subsystem, and an end cap connected to the bushing and selectively fastenable to the proximal end of the camera subsystem. The camera subsystem preferably has a distal end and a proximal end and including an image sensor located at the distal end and a memory device connected to the image sensor and accessed from the proximal end. The end cap preferably facilitates a waterproof seal of the memory device when fastened to the camera subsystem and allows access to the memory device when not fastened to the camera subsystem.

Abstract: A method and system are disclosed, may include a mounting device for a piece of equipment having an accessory receptacle. The mounting device may include at least two arms connected together providing at least two rotation axes, a mounting stud for mating with the accessory receptacle and connected to one of the two arms providing at least one rotation axis, and a mount for mating with an accessory of the equipment and connected to the other one of the two arms providing at least two rotation axes.

Abstract: The present invention provides a camera system which is provided with signal processing control means for changing the filter characteristic of parallel vibration signal processing means in conformity with the output signal of rotation vibration signal processing means and thereby can photograph an image suffering little from blur even during macro-photographing.

Abstract: A camera balance device (1) having a cardanically suspendable pendulum arm (5) which is at least partially straight and whereon a camera fixing device (7) is provided on one side of the cardanic suspension (3) and a modifiable fixing device (15) for counterweights is provided on the other side of the cardanic suspension (3). At least two independently movable fixing devices (17, 19) are provided.

Abstract: A digital camera is adapted for being mounted to a bow for archery. The camera comprises a self-contained digital unit within a housing and is protected from vibrational disturbances caused by the release of the bowstring. A viscoelastic material is used to reduce vibrations. The housing is water resistant to protect the internal circuitry of the camera from environmental elements encountered during hunting. A secure digital slot is connected to the digital camera circuitry and can accept a SD flash memory card. The camera may also be connected for transmitting images to an external device for viewing.

Abstract: A ball and race universal joint has an equipment mounting plate attached to and positioned above the race. The ball has a horizontal shaft extending there through with ends protruding from opposite sides of the ball. One or more elastic cords are connected to the protruding ends of the shaft. The elastic cords permit the apparatus to be attached between two mounting points located in or on a moving and/or vibrating platform at a level close to that of the mounting points and provide vibration isolation from the platform. The universal joint permits a camera or other equipment mounted on the mounting plate to be aimed in any direction. A base has a turntable with a pair of spaced uprights which may be used to provide the mounting points if such are not conveniently available in or on the platform.

Abstract: Disclosed is a cardiac suspension device (3) for a camera balance device (1), comprising two intersecting joint axes (G1, G2); one of said axes extending vertically (G2) (in a perpendicular manner) during operation and the other (G1) extending horizontally, in addition to an axis rotation (D) extending through the vertical joint axis (G2) and lying perpendicular to the horizontal joint axis (G1). A joint output fixing element (27) can be rotated around the vertical joint axis (G2) and is used to fix the cardanic suspension device (3) on the camera balance device (1). A joint input fixing element (25) can rotate around the axis of rotation (D) and is used to fix the cardanic suspension (3) to a support. A centering device (43) is provided in the region of the vertical joint axis (G2) and the horizontal joint axis (G1), enabling the relative position between the joint output fixing element (27) and the camera balance device (1) to be established without slip in said region.

Abstract: A self leveling camera support apparatus and method for helping isolate a camera from rolling motion of a support structure. The apparatus includes a frame having a first end adapted to attach to the support structure and a second end with a pivotal connection. Also included, is a roll member adapted to attach the camera, the roll member is pivotally attached to the pivotal connection at an extension arm proximal end portion, the roll member also includes an extension arm distal end portion adjacent to support fingers for a camera mount. The roll member is operational to help the camera level from roll movement of the frame, resulting from a center of mass of the roll member, camera, and extension arm combined, the center of mass positioned between the pivotal connection and the frame first end, wherein the frame and the extension arm form a parallel to angular relationship.

Abstract: Disclosed is a cardanic suspension device (3) for a camera balance device (1), comprising two intersecting joint axes (G1, G2); one of said axes extending vertically (G2) (in a perpendicular manner) and the other (G1) extending horizontally, in addition to an axis of rotation (D) extending through the vertical joint axis (G2) and lying perpendicular to the horizontal joint axis (G1). A joint output fixing element (27) can be rotated around the vertical joint axis (G2) and is used to fix the cardanic suspension device (3) on the camera balance device (1). A joint input fixing element (25) can rotate around the axis of rotation (D) and is used to fix the cardanic suspension (3) to a support. A centering device (43) is provided between the joint input fixing element (25) and the joint output element (27), enabling the vertical joint axis (G2) and the axis of rotation (D) to move in relation to each other.

Abstract: A remote camera positioning and control system is disclosed that permits a sole operator to use and support a camera out of arm's reach. The system can include a handle module that incorporates, for example, an axially and rotationally moveable grip and a proximal handle grip ring and control cage for surrounding a camera control, such as a joystick.

Abstract: A self leveling camera support apparatus and method for helping isolate a camera from rolling motion of a support structure. The apparatus includes a frame having a first end adapted to attach to the support structure and a second end with a pivotal connection. Also included, is a roll member adapted to attach the camera, the roll member is pivotally attached to the pivotal connection, the roll member also includes an extension arm with a proximal end portion and a distal end portion adjacent to a counter balance weight. The roll member is operational to help the camera level from roll movement of the frame, resulting from a center of mass of the roll member, camera, extension arm, and counterbalance weight combined, the center of mass positioned between the pivotal connection and the frame first end, wherein the frame and the extension arm form a parallel to angular relationship.

Abstract: A generally C-shaped frame portion having upper and lower generally horizontal arms and a generally vertically positioned connecting member partially surrounds a camera receiving space. A plate pivotally mounted to the lower arm provides a mounting point for a camera and a plurality of gyroscopic stabilizers. One or more elastic cords rotatably attached to the upper arm permit the frame to be suspend from a suspension point in or on a moving and/or vibrating platform for swinging movement in any direction and rotation relative to the platform and provide vibration isolation from the platform. A collapsible stand having a heavy base, an upright and a cantilever arm may be used to provide the suspension point if one is not conveniently available in or on the platform.

Abstract: A camera stabilizer having a base onto which a camera is mountable. Two support members attach to the base by adjustable rods on each support member. A leveling device on the stabilizer permits a user to obtain a horizontally true picture. A mirror on the stabilizer permits a user to direct an external remote control device from the rear, onto the mirror, and reflected into a photosensor on the camera.

Abstract: A remote camera positioning and control system is disclosed that permits a sole operator to use and support a camera out of arm's reach. Various features of such a remote camera positioning and control system are disclosed. The positioner can include one or more beam modules having cross-sectional flexural rigidity that varies along the length of the beam module(s) by use, for example, of stiffening longerons, anchoring braces and relatively low density stabilizing webs. The camera can be mounted to the beam module by a front end assembly that is constructed to place the center of mass of the camera and the front end assembly along the neutral axis of the beam module over as great a range of motion as possible.

Abstract: A remote camera positioning and control system is disclosed that permits a sole operator to use and support a camera out of arm's reach. Various features of such a remote camera positioning and control system are disclosed. The positioner can include one or more beam modules having cross-sectional flexural rigidity that varies along the length of the beam module(s) by use, for example, of stiffening longerons, anchoring braces and relatively low density stabilizing webs.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for using camera attitude sensors with a camera. A camera assembly includes a tripod base, a tripod head interface mounted on the tripod base, a tripod head mounted on the tripod head interface and a camera mounted on the tripod head. The tripod head enables the camera to pan and tilt. The system also includes a first optical encoder for detecting the amount that the camera has been panned and a second optical encoder for detecting the amount that the camera has been tilted. Two inclinometers are mounted on the tripod head interface to measure attitude of the tripod head. Two gyroscopes (“gyros”) are mounted on the camera assembly. Data from the encoders, gyros and inclinometers are packaged and sent to graphics production equipment to be used for enhancing video captured by the camera.

Abstract: A remote camera positioning and control system is disclosed that permits a sole operator to use and support a camera out of arm's reach without external structural or personnel support. Various features of such a remote camera positioning and control system are disclosed. The positioner can include one or more beam modules having cross-sectional flexural rigidity that varies along the length of the beam module(s) by use, for example, of stiffening longerons, anchoring braces and relatively low density stabilizing webs. The camera can be mounted to the beam module by a front end assembly that is constructed to place the center of mass of the camera and the front end assembly along the neutral axis of the beam module over as great a range of motion as possible. The system can also include a handle module that incorporates, for example, an axially and rotationally moveable grip and a proximal handle grip ring and control cage for surrounding a camera control, such as a joystick.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a track system for a body-mounted camera support apparatus. The track system consists of parallel tracks with integrated mounting hardware for connecting the tracks to a camera support vest. The tracks are mounted in existing mounting locations reserved for a socket block and associated socket block supporting member found on commercially available support vests. The track can extend straight, semi-circular or in a combination of angular configurations around the operator. A sliding channel member is also provided adapted to receive and move along the parallel tracks. The sliding channel member may include friction reducing materials for prevention of seizing between the sliding member and parallel tracks. The sliding channel member further includes a socket block formed thereon for engagement of the camera support arm.

Abstract: An image stabilization system for use with a camera by a camera operator. The stabilization system includes a body member having a generally C-shape with a first end at one end of the C-shape and a second end at the other end of the C-shape with a top portion at the first end of the C-shape and a bottom portion at the second end of the C-shape. A monopod, made up of a plurality of elongated sections arranged in a telescopic manner to extend the length of the monopod, is operatively secured to the bottom of the C-shape. An adjustable camera mounting plate is secured to the body member. An elongated handle is secured to the body member by a universal joint for movably securing a first end of the handle member to the body member so that the handle member is movable in all directions. Weights may be secured to the body member to balance a camera on the mounting plate so that the camera is stabilized when the stabilization device is moved in any direction.

Abstract: A stabilizing platform for attachment to the bottom of a hand held camcorder to steady the filming of subjects with the use of fiber optics in the body of the platform to send remote control infrared signals to the infrared receiving port on the camcorder. The platform includes a two piece bar that is held together with a locking bolt and includes a mounting screw which attaches the camera to the top of the platform and also attaches a handle below the platform. A remote control is attached to the handle. The remote control also can be imbedded into the handle so that the infrared signal can go from the handle directly into the base of the camera body thus giving the user instant control of the signal, and improve the quality of the picture. A second infrared receiving port is located on the bottom of the camcorder so that the user may send remote infrared signals to camcorder from behind the unit.

Abstract: A stabilizing platform for attachment to the bottom of a hand held camcorder to steady the filming of subjects with the use of fiber optics in the body of the platform to send remote control infrared signals to the infrared receiving port on the camcorder. The platform includes a two piece bar that is held together with a locking bolt and includes a mounting screw which attaches the camera to the top of the platform and also attaches a handle below the platform. A remote control is attached to the handle. The remote control also can be imbedded into the handle so that the infrared signal can go from the handle directly into the base of the camera body thus giving the user instant control of the signal, and improve the quality of the picture. A second infrared receiving port is located on the bottom of the camcorder so that the user may send remote infrared signals to camcorder from behind the unit.

Abstract: An image stabilization system for use with a camera by a camera operator. The stabilization system includes a body member having a generally C-shape with a first end at one end of the C-shape and a second end at the other end of the C-shape with a top portion at the first end of the C-shape and a bottom portion at the second end of the C-shape. A monopod, made up of a plurality of elongated sections arranged in a telescopic manner to extend the length of the monopod, is operatively secured to the bottom of C-shape. An adjustable camera mounting plate is secured to the body member. An elongated handle is secured to the body member by a universal joint for movably securing a first end of the handle member to the body member so that the handle member is movable in all directions. Weights may be secured to the body member to balance a camera on the mounting plate so that the camera is stabilized when the stabilization device is moved in any direction.

Abstract: An image stabilization system for use with a camera by a camera operator. The stabilization system includes a body member having a generally C-shape with a first end at one end of the C-shape and a second end at the other end of the C-shape with a top portion at the first end of the C-shape and a bottom portion at the second end of the C-shape. A monopod, made up of a plurality of elongated sections arranged in a telescopic manner to extend the length of the monopod, is operatively secured to the bottom of the C-shape. An adjustable camera mounting plate is secured to the body member. An elongated handle is secured to the body member by a universal joint for movably securing a first end of the handle member to the body member so that the handle member is movable in all directions. Weights may be secured to the body member to balance a camera on the mounting plate so that the camera is stabilized when the stabilization device is moved in any direction.

Abstract: A nose pad for a camera includes a flat sheet portion and at least one projecting portion projecting from a front surface of the flat sheet portion. The projecting portion has an inclined surface at one side thereof so that when the nose pad is attached to the camera, a nose of a user can be put on the inclined surface to immovably hold the camera supported with hands. When a shutter switch is pushed, the camera can be held properly without moving the camera.

Abstract: An image stabilization system for use with a camera by a camera operator. The stabilization system includes a body member having a generally C-shape with a first end at one end of the C-shape and a second end at the other end of the C-shape with a top portion at the first end of the C-shape and a bottom portion at the second end of the C-shape. A monopod, made up of a plurality of elongated sections arranged in a telescopic manner to extend the length of the monopod, is operatively secured to the bottom of C-shape. An adjustable camera mounting plate is secured to the mounting plate to the body member. An elongated handle is secured to the body member by a universal joint for movably securing a first end of the handle member to the body member so that the handle member is movable in all directions. Weights may be secured to the body member to balance a camera on the mounting plate so that the camera is stabilized when the stabilization device is moved in any direction.

Abstract: An EFP lens device is attached to a mount frame of a lens supporter, and an adapter-type vibration isolator is fixed to the back face of the mount frame. An ENG camera is attached to the back of the vibration isolator. The vibration isolator automatically checks information about the focal length of the attached lens device, information about an extender, etc. and adjusts the amplitude of the correcting lens according to the vibrations of the lens. A lens information setting switch is provided at the vibration isolator so that a user can freely enter and change the lens inherent information through the lens information setting switch. A vibration ON/OFF switch and a sensitivity setting means are provided at a manual control part.

Abstract: A camera steadying device for steadying a camera while taking a picture. The camera steadying device includes a body member being designed for being coupled to the camera being held by a user. A flexible extension member extends from the body member. The flexible extension member is designed for being stepped on by the user opposite the camera whereby the flexible extension member resists upward vertical movement of the camera for steadying the camera when the user is taking a picture.

Abstract: A mount for use in the outdoors to support a camera for recording images of flora, fauna, and participants in outdoors-recreational activities. The camera mount comprises a pivot and a rotatable support plate atop a clamping mechanism, which will clamp upon square, rectangular, and round shaped shafts. A camera is statically fastened to the rotatable support plate by a thumbscrew extending through a round hole and tightened. The pivot and rotatable support plate mount to the clamping mechanism with a bolt extending through holes aligned in each and a threaded knob, that when tightened or loosened on the bolt adjusts compressive tension on the clamping mechanism; also, securing the desired angle of rotation. An embodiment is shown of an alternate position of the bottom of the clamping mechanism for mounting on smaller round shafts. A method of mounting a camera for use in the recording of flora, fauna, and participants in outdoors-recreational activities is disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a camera in a stable position from an individual's torso comprising, a storage compartment which is defined by upper and lower walls, opposite side walls and front and rear walls, the rear wall further comprising a proximal attachment surface and a distal attachment surface; a waist band with first and second locking elements attached to the proximal attachment surface of the rear wall, a neck band attached to the proximal attachment surface of the rear wall, a mono-pod receptacle with a mono-pod receiving bore, and at least one adjustable attachment means for fixedly positioning a mono-pod insertably received within the receiving bore.

Abstract: A hand held support for hand held cameras includes a first frame having a hand grip and a pivot mount spaced from the hand grip; a second frame pivotally mounted to the first frame at the pivot mount, and a camera mount on the second frame disposed below the pivot mount and adjustable to position the center of gravity of the camera relative to the pivot so that the camera remains in the desired level orientation upon pivoting of the support. An additional feature included adjustable weights on the frame and alternatively on the camera to adjust the center of gravity of the camera relative to the pivot axis of the inner frame.

Abstract: A multi-function support has a main body having a gripping surface, and at least one arm that is pivotably connected to the main body, with each arm having a resilient element and a gripping surface. A gripping space is defined between the gripping surface of the main body and the gripping surface of each arm, and each resilient element exerts a natural bias that normally pushes the gripping surface of the corresponding arm towards the gripping surface of the main body.

Abstract: A stabilized platform is stabilized to compensate for motion caused by waves, currents, wind, and other motion during land, air, and sea operations of a camera. Although the stabilized platform is primarily described as useful for supporting a camera, the platform may be used to support other articles or persons. The stabilized platform includes a stabilizing system connecting a payload platform to a base. The stabilizing system including at least two motors for rotating the payload platform with respect to the base about two perpendicular axes of rotation providing the payload platform with stabilization in two dimensions. A control system stabilizes the platform based on information provided by a first sensor package or other location for sensing motion of the vehicle and a second sensor package on the platform. The use of the second sensor package allows the stabilized platform to be self correcting. A camera when mounted on the payload platform may be manually or remotely controlled.

Abstract: A body mounted camera support system for isolating the camera from body motion includes two arms linked together. Each of the arms is a four bar linkage with two tension cartridges each extending between two adjacent ones of the links. Two of the links are extended to form the body of the arm. These links are tubular in cross section and receive the tension cartridge. A single pin, in association with a yoke at one open end of the tubular link, locks the cartridge in place. Each tension cartridge includes a draw bar and a canister with a compression spring operatively positioned therebetween. The spring is adjusted to include shims which bias the bowing of the spring under initial compression load. A PTFE coating on the canister and on the coil spring further reduces friction.

Abstract: A balancer system for hand-held cameras includes a camera mounting mechanism, a pendulum arm, at least one counterweight and a handgrip. The counterweight can be attached to the pendulum arm and the pendulum arm is connected to the camera mounting mechanism. The pendulum arm is pendulum mounted on the handgrip. The handgrip is configured as a hollow bell-shaped balancer (1) which is flared at least in its lower section, when in use, and the pendulum arm is a substantially straight pendulum rod (2) extending through the bell-shaped balancer (1).

Abstract: A method is disclosed for producing a still image of an object using an image pickup element, which captures an image as a plurality of pixels. The method includes calculating relative displacement amounts between positions of the object on a plurality of frame images taken by the image pickup element, producing a synthesized still image of the object as an image containing an amount of information N times as large as that of each of the frame images using the relative displacement amounts to shift and overlay the plurality of frame images, and carrying out an interpolation processing so that intervals between adjacent pixels distributed on said synthesized still image are substantially the same, by a Fourier series expansion of a distribution state of pixels on said synthesized still image.

Abstract: A new and improved apparatus for supporting a dial test indicator in a tooling machine comprising at least a pair of pivoting arms that are pivotally attached to a pair of pivoting ends which permit the arms to be positioned parallel to one another and operate in unison motion. This configuration allows the dial test indicator support to maintain constant latitude throughout a full of range of motion during adjustment thereof, resulting in an indicator support that can quickly assist in the acquisition of precise, accurate measurement of the workpiece. Further, the dial test indicator support requires no active adjustment of fastening screws and the alike during repositioning of the arms for progressive measurement of the workpiece.

Abstract: A sway bar arm (10) having on at least one end an attachment (12) (18) for connection to a camera with view screen (24). The arm provides a grasping surface and is effective primarily when angled in a direction counter to the camera's carry handle (16). The photographer grasps the sway bar arm with one hand and the carry handle with the other hand, thereby lessening camera sway. Branches and curvatures of the arm (FIG. 2C (22)) provide clamping surfaces for accessories and grasping surfaces, especially for cameras without carry handles. The arm and its branches can accommodate built in remote camera controls and accessories.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a simple, versatile support frame for supporting a camera on different objects and surfaces in various dispositions. The support frame allows different adjustments to be quickly and easily made to position the camera as desired. In one embodiment, a device for supporting a camera comprises a neck configured to connect with the camera. A body has a body axis and is rotatably connected with the neck to pivot relative to the neck around a neck pivot axis which is generally perpendicular to the body axis. A left arm is rotatably connected with the body to pivot relative to the body around a left pivot axis. The left pivot axis is nonparallel to the neck pivot axis. A right arm is rotatably connected with the body to pivot relative to the body around a right pivot axis. The right pivot axis is nonparallel to the neck pivot axis. The left arm and right arm may be pivotable relative to the body independently of one another.

Abstract: A body mounted camera support system for isolating the camera from body motion includes two arms linked together. Each of the arms is a four bar linkage with two tension cartridges each extending between two adjacent ones of the links. Two of the links are extended to form the body of the arm. These links are tubular in cross section and receive the tension cartridge. A single pin, in association with a yoke at one open end of the tubular link, locks the cartridge in place. Each tension cartridge includes a draw bar and a canister with a compression spring operatively positioned therebetween. The spring is adjusted to include shims which bias the bowing of the spring under initial compression load. A PTFE coating on the canister and on the coil spring further reduces friction.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a tiltable mounting for a TV camera or the like comprising a base (11), a camera support (16) mounted on the base to tilt about a first horizontal axis to either side of a neutral, upright position, and a counterbalancing mechanism (12) for holding the support with a payload upright or in any rotational position to which it is moved from said upright position. The counterbalancing mechanism comprising an elongate guideway (29) having one end coupled to the support at an eccentric location (23) to said first horizontal axis. A guide (27) with which the guideway (29) is slidably engaged is pivotally mounted on the base about a further horizontal axis spaced from said first axis such that tilting movement of the mounting about the first axis from the neutral position causes the guideway to slide with respect to the guide.

Abstract: A body mounted camera support system for isolating the camera from body motion includes two arms linked together. Each of the arms is a four bar linkage with two tension cartridges each extending between two adjacent ones of the links. Two of the links are extended to form the body of the arm. These links are tubular in cross section and receive the tension cartridge. A single pin, in association with a yoke at one open end of the tubular link, locks the cartridge in place. Each tension cartridge includes a draw bar and a canister with a compression spring operatively positioned therebetween. The spring is adjusted to include shims which bias the bowing of the spring under initial compression load. A PTFE coating on the canister and on the coil spring further reduces friction.

Abstract: For extended long-post operation of a Steadicam®-type camera stabilizer while retaining static and dynamic balance throughout the entire range of post sizes and various component weights, the present invention is directed to an arrangement of telescoping posts, component positioning hardware, electrical wire retracting hardware, and optional hardware to augment rigidity.

Abstract: A blur preventing device of a camera includes a base portion having a depressed portion on one side thereof to allow a nose of a user to be inserted therein; a sebaceous matter absorbing layer disposed on a surface of the base portion including the depressed portion; and an adhesive layer disposed on a back surface of the base portion to be detachably attached to a back side of the camera. Since a user can hold the camera by pressing the nose against the back side of the camera through the blur preventing device, a picture without blur can be taken. Moreover, there is no risk of staining the back of the camera with the sebaceous matter since the blur preventing device is provided with the sebaceous matter absorbing layer.

Abstract: A camera stabilizer includes a camera attachment (22), an arm system (21, 5) carried by the attachment (22), a stabilising mass (6) which is carried by the outer free end-part of the arm system, and a handle (3) connected to the attachment (22) through the medium of a universal joint (32). The arm system includes two arm-parts (21, 5) which are collapsibly connected to one another through the medium of a pivot joint. The pivot joint is a vertical pivot joint that enables the arm-parts (21, 5) to be swung relative to one another in the horizontal plane, wherein the pivot joint includes means (44) for locking the arm-parts (21, 5) in selected horizontal angles relative to one another.

Abstract: A frame assembly for supporting a portable video or other camera. The assembly comprises a rigid frame, having a front, and a rear. A pair of shoulder rests are connected to the frame and constructed to rest on the shoulders of an operator. A pair of hand grips are connected to the front of the frame. A camera mount is disposed on the front of the frame for releaseably holding the video camera. Lastly, an adjustable counterweight member is connected to the rear of the frame, for balancing the center of gravity of the frame substantially over the shoulders of the wearer, when the camera is held by the mount. The camera mount and counterweight are preferably relatively slideably adjustable to balance the center of gravity of the frame assembly over the shoulders of the operator. In one embodiment, the counterweight is replaced by a gyroscope member of equal weight in order to retain static balance and imparts added dynamic stability to the frame assembly.

Abstract: A body mounted camera support system for isolating the camera from body motion includes two arms linked together. Each of the arms is a four bar linkage with two tension cartridges each extending between two adjacent ones of the links. Two of the links are extended to form the body of the arm. These links are tubular in cross section and receive the tension cartridge. A single pin, in association with a yoke at one open end of the tubular link, locks the cartridge in place. Each tension cartridge includes a draw bar and a canister with a compression spring operatively positioned therebetween. The spring is adjusted to include shims which bias the bowing of the spring under initial compression load. A PTFE coating on the canister and on the coil spring further reduces friction.

Abstract: A camera stabilization device includes an inner camera support having a roll axis about which the inner support rotates, and an outer support at least partially surrounding and rotatably engaging the inner support. The outer support includes a coupler that engages a camera support structure.

Abstract: Apparatus for stabilizing unwanted movement of a video camera during tilting, panning, zooming and other camera operations. The stabilizing apparatus includes an elongated balance arm, a pivotal support for supporting the balance arm about a fulcrum point, a camera mount, and a counterweight having a center of gravity below the fulcrum point. The camera mount and counterweight are shaped to position the combined center of gravity of the camera mount with camera and counterweight below the fulcrum point of the balance arm.

Abstract: A frame assembly for supporting a portable video or other camera. The assembly comprises a rigid frame, having a front, and a rear. A pair of shoulder rests are connected to the frame and constructed to rest on the shoulders of an operator. A pair of hand grips are connected to the front of the frame. A camera mount is disposed on the front of the frame for releaseably holding the video camera. Lastly, an adjustable counterweight member is connected to the rear of the frame, for balancing the center of gravity of the frame substantially over the shoulders of the wearer, when the camera is held by the mount. The camera mount and counterweight are preferably relatively slideably adjustable to balance the center of gravity of the frame assembly over the shoulders of the operator.