Abstract: A digital camera pedestal with cable in neck is provided which may comprise a base member, a neck, and a camera housing. The base member can comprise a surface mount, a cable exit annulus, and a neck mount. The surface mount and said neck mount can attach together forming an interior cavity. A cable enters the cavity through the neck mount, and exits through the cable exit annulus. An annular neck member is rotatably attached to the neck mount, such that it can rotate in a vertical plane, and a camera housing member is in turn rotatably attached to the neck member, where the housing member can rotate in a horizontal plane.

Abstract: A digital camera pedestal with cable in neck is provided which may comprise a base member, a neck, and a camera housing. The base member can comprise a surface mount, a cable exit annulus, and a neck mount. The surface mount and said neck mount can attach together forming an interior cavity. A cable enters the cavity through the neck mount, and exits through the cable exit annulus. An annular neck member is rotatably attached to the neck mount, such that it can rotate in a vertical plane, and a camera housing member is in turn rotatably attached to the neck member, where the housing member can rotate in a horizontal plane.

Abstract: A system for providing self-alignment of an appendage or other movable part comprising an input device, a self-aligning clutch, a processor, a feedback sensor, and a timer. The input device drives a set of gears including a partial output gear. The self-aligning clutch is coupled to the output gear and moves the appendage in response to the rotational motion of the output gear. The self-aligning clutch includes a flexible link for transferring energy from the output gear to the appendage and for maintaining the relative alignment between the appendage and the output gear. When an obstruction prevents the appendage from moving to the desired position, the flexible link stores energy. After the obstruction is removed, the flexible link releases the stored energy to move the appendage so that the relative alignment between the output gear and the appendage is maintained. The self-aligning clutch prevents damage to the servo when an external force is applied to the appendage.