Abstract: A mount bar for supporting video equipment in a motor vehicle in which an elongated bracket supports a pivotally mounted camera and a video image display in a frame selectively attached to the mount bar, with the opposing ends of the mount bar for being attached to headrest supports in a seat of the motor vehicle. Alternate embodiments of the mount bar are disclosed.

Abstract: A wearable and mobile multi-media data collection tool kit for creating an electronic investigation record. The wearable and mobile multi-media data collection tool kit includes an electronic multi-media “Case” file for processing a plurality of multi-media data collection input streams of multi-media investigation information into an electronic case file record, a man-to-machine visual interface or display integrated with the electronic multi-media case file for visually conveying the contents of the input streams of the multi-media investigation information. The took kit further includes a plurality of multi-media data collection tools for inputting the plurality of multi-media data collection input streams of the multi-media investigation information.

Abstract: An arm support device for steadying the wearer's weight bearing arm and transferring weight from the arm to the torso. The device is useful over a range of activities which require supporting an implement with one arm, including but not limited to videography, hunting, marksmanship, or fishing. The device comprises a shoulder strap with a cushion mounted thereon. The strap is looped over the head of the wearer and rests on the shoulder opposite the weight bearing arm. The adjustable strap crosses over the front of the wearer's body, under the weight bearing arm, and across the back of the wearer, returning to the shoulder. The strap thereby forms a continuous loop diagonally around the torso of the wearer. The cushion is slidably mounted to the strap, and in use, is positioned between the weight bearing arm and torso. In this manner, the weight is transferred from the arm inwardly to the torso and downwardly to the opposite shoulder.

Abstract: A camera mount for supporting a camera in a motor vehicle in which an elongated tubular body supports a pivotally mounted camera with the tubular body attached to headrest supports in a seat of a vehicle with the camera disposed substantially centrally relative to a central axis of the vehicle beyond a view point of an eye of an occupant of the seat nearest the centerline of the vehicle such that the imaging apparatus is unobstructed for receiving images by use of the seat.

Abstract: A camera carrying case includes a sleeve having a camera receiving hollow and a pair of opposite open ends that are individually configured to permit camera insertion into the hollow. A pair of spaced elastic expandable strips between the open ends each interconnect a pair of spaced longitudinal edge portions of the sleeve to permit the hollow to be enlarged to accommodate different size cameras and to form a pocket between the elastic expandable strips for receiving various articles. A flap is connected to one of the longitudinal edge portions to wrap about the sleeve, but not about the elastic expandable strips, and to unwrap from about the sleeve.

Abstract: A handle-bar camera support and method therefor, comprising a vertical support member, a camera receiving member, and a handle-bar coupling member allowing attachment of the vertical support member to the handle-bar of a vehicle. A camera can be secured to the handle-bar of a vehicle, thus allowing for stable recording during the use of the vehicle.

Abstract: A camera comprising a housing, and a carry strap attached to the housing to permit the carry strap to be longitudinally extended from the housing as a closed loop to receive one's hand in the closed loop and being elastic to be stretched around the housing to be stored on the housing, is characterized in that the carry strap has an ornamental figure which is arranged to be upstanding from the housing when the carry strap is stretched around the housing to be stored on the housing. Preferably, the carry strap has an integral platform that is wider than the remainder of the carry strap to serve as a support base for the ornamental figure. The platform is positioned on a top face of the housing, and the ornamental figure is upstanding on the platform, when the carry strap is stretched around the housing to be stored on the housing.

Abstract: A mount bar for supporting video equipment in a motor vehicle in which an elongated bracket supports a pivotally mounted camera and a video image display in a frame selectively attached to the mount bar, with the opposing ends of the mount bar for being attached to headrest supports in a seat of the motor vehicle. Alternate embodiments of the mount bar are disclosed.

Abstract: A hand strap for a portable apparatus is disclosed which can be easily and surely held by hand, prevents the apparatus from being dropped by accident, and reduces the cost. The hand strap is made up of a strap body implemented by one or two strings or strips anchored to the engaging portion of the apparatus, and a stop capable of being locked to the strap body at any desired position. The hand strap can therefore be held without requiring the user to put the user's hand in a loop. This allows the user to safely carry the apparatus simply by gripping the strap. A structure for mounting such a hand strap to the apparatus is also disclosed.

Abstract: A portable camera support system (10) has a tubular main support body (14) extending along a generally vertical axis between an upper end (18) and a lower end (16) for movably supporting a motion picture camera (12). The support system (10) is adapted for operational use supporting the camera (12) in both a lower camera mode of operation and an upper camera mode of operation. In the lower mode, a camera yoke assembly (54) is pivotally coupled to the lower end (16) of the main support body (14) and maintained at the lowermost position. The yoke assembly (54) is adapted to pivotally support the camera (12) about its sides and thus eliminate the traditional base mounting. A power supply assembly (38) and operator handle (48) are supported along the length of the main support body (14). The system (10) is balanced so that the handle (48) is aligned with the center of gravity of the components. A camera cage support system (104) also supports the camera (12) from the sides without need for a base support.

Abstract: A camera housing includes a front cover part and a rear cover part which have two adjacent end portions provided with respective concavities that similarly extend inward to define adjacent concave surfaces of the two end portions. The two end portions continue over the concavities to form adjacent ribs spaced from the concave surfaces to permit an accessory for the camera housing to fit between the ribs and the concave surfaces. The accessory has at least one fastener that fits between the ribs and the concave surfaces and engages the ribs to hold the ribs together in order to prevent the front and rear cover parts from separating at the two end portions.

Abstract: An improved bracket for connecting a camera mount to rectangular supports for headrests in automobiles is disclosed. A camera support having extendable telescopic legs for bearing against a surface in the automobile provides improved support for larger, heavier cameras supported on the camera mount for recording images during operation of the automobile. A cushion pad attaches to a front or rear face of the camera mount, for example, to guard against bruises to a person operating the camera in a back seat of the automobile. Improved pivotable supports for the camera are also disclosed, whereby the camera is selectively positioned at a horizontal angle for recording images.

Abstract: A container for exposed film cartridges that permits swift, one-handed insertion of such cartridges while securely containing them after insertion is disclosed. A pouch with stiffened walls has a circular opening covered by overlapping flaps made of a flexible but resilient material through which cartridges may be inserted.

Abstract: A film carrier including a strap adapted to be worn by an individual and which is selectively connected to one or more belt segments which support a plurality of receptacles for housing rolls of film and wherein each receptacle includes a removable lid which is tethered to the belt segment on which the receptacle is supported.

Abstract: A quick release connector system is provided for interconnecting a frequently used portable accessory item with a support body. The system utilizes a clasp having a back wall spaced apart from a stationary wall. The stationary wall includes an enlarged opening from which extends a slot. A deflectable wall overlies the enlarged opening. A connector part forms the quick release connection with the clasp. It is attached to the portable accessory item via a post with an enlarged head. The post has a diameter less than the width of the slot and the head has a diameter greater than the width of the slot, but less than the enlarged opening. When the deflectable wall is flexed away from the enlarged opening, the head of the connector part will pass through the opening and slide behind the slot as the post is moved into the slot. The enlarged head behind the slot will prevent axial disengagement.

Abstract: A frame system that converts to a four-leg support base for use with backpacks. The base eliminates the need to carry a tripod or monopod. Two threaded bosses are use to accommodate attachments such as a shooting rest or to accommodate surveillance or test equipment. The main part of the frame replaces the top hoop found on many external frame backpacks. The frame has two angled members that accept a pair of legs. These legs are made of several parts to permit many configurations. The frame can be removed from the backpack as well. This makes a free standing base that can be used in seated or prone positions; it also leaves the pack portion free to be used separately. Nylon sides or hoods can be attached to make the pack assembly act as a blind or a windbreak. Also, an aluminum table can be attached to the frame for cooking, etc., as desired.

Abstract: A device for supporting a camera or similar device comprising; a vertical rod, a camera mount on top of said rod, a vertically positionable bracket which may be placed along or about said rod, an upper support arm attached to said bracket which can be both vertically and laterally about said rod and having a variable length and pad mounted to its end for bracing against a user, a lower support arm attached to said rod below the upper support arm being adjustable in length and having a lower pad attach to its end for bracing against a user's body so as to provide support and stability when using a camera attached thereto.

Abstract: A mount for use in an automobile to support a camera for recording images during operation of the automobile. The camera mount comprises an elongate member extending between and rigidly connected to the headrest supports in the seat of the car. A camera mounts to a pivotable support connected to the member with bolts extending through an elongate slot, whereby the camera is selectively positioned along the member. The elongate member connects to the headrest supports with j-bolts that are received through a pair of second slots in the elongate member. The j-bolts extend around the headrest supports and a nut threaded on the j-bolt secures the member to the headrest supports. An alternate embodiment is disclosed for vehicles which do not have separate headrest supports. A method of mounting a camera in an automobile is disclosed.

Abstract: Described is a process for determining excitants, attractants, incitants and stimulants for members of the Penaeus genus of the Class Crustacea including but not limited to Penaeus setiferus, Penaeus aztecus and Penaeus vannamei, as well as apparatus for carrying out such process. The apparatus for carrying out the process includes static tank means, flow-through tank means and Y-maze means each equipped with variable-focus camera means taken alone or in combination with one another. The variable-focus camera means platform is also described and is part of our invention. Also described is a method for exciting and/or attracting and/or stimulating and/or inciting members of the Penaeus genus of the Class Crustacea including but not limited to Penaeus setiferus, Penaeus aztecus and Penaeus vannamei (referred to collectively as Penaeus spp.

Abstract: A circumferential closure for a bag which permits hinged opening of the bag at substantially all position on the circumference and selected full or partial closure. The closure comprises a single zipper (or similar closure mechanism) track wherein one end overlaps the track of the other end by being inserted therewithin. The zipper mechanism comprises four pull elements in two sets, arranged such that juxtaposition (or separated) sequence of the two sets of pairs provides for full closure of the zipper and wherein disposal of a set of pairs between another set of pairs provides for full opening of the zipper, wherein the closure is hinged at the site of the zippers.

Abstract: A body-mounted camera support which includes a generally ring-shaped, neck-encircling member to which a camera support assembly is pivotally connected. The camera support assembly includes a support platform for supporting the camera, a platform supporting track extending outwardly from the neck encircling member for slidably supporting the support platform, and a gripping handle assembly pivotally connected to the track for gripping by the user to quickly and easily position the track and the camera platform both elevationally and directionally relative to the user's body. When the camera is not in use, the camera support assembly depends downwardly from the neck encircling member and rests comfortably against the user's upper body. When the photographer desires to use the camera, the camera support assembly can be quickly raised and pointed by gripping the gripping handle assembly.

Abstract: An adaptable aiming support device includes a waist belt for securing the device to a person's waist. A rigid base plate is affixed to the waist belt and includes a bracket mounted thereon. An extendible and retractable support rod is mounted to and pivotable upon a pivot pin disposed within the bracket. The support rod extends from the bracket and includes a primary tube and a secondary tube in adjustable telescoping engagement with the primary tube. The distal end of the support rod is adapted to receive one of a set of interchangeable endpieces for supporting a device to be aimed (e.g., a gun, a camera, a binocular). A quick release pin mechanism is provided at the distal end to attach/remove a given endpiece (of the set of interchangeable endpieces) thereto/therefrom quickly and easily.

Abstract: A camera holder is provided which has a support structure which is generally a single arcuate bar. Attached to one end of the support structure is a body rest member, adapted to fit comfortably against the upper torso of the user. Attached to the other end of the support structure is a pair of lateral members extending laterally in opposite directions from the support structure. Attached to the support structure is a strap which is placed behind the neck of the user to support the furthermost end of the support structure. The camera holder of the invention provides a simple, lightweight and stable platform for holding a portable camera, especially a video recorder, without the necessity of the hands of the user.

Abstract: A carrier apparatus for holding an object such as a film canister is disclosed. The carrier comprises a flexible elastic body having a ring portion adapted to receive and hold the object therein, an eyelet portion having an aperture therethrough and an elongated flexible tail portion. The tail portion has a free end and a plurality of linearly spaced enlarged nodules thereon. The tail portion is sized to pass through the aperture in the eyelet portion. The nodules are sized to elastically deform and frictionally pass through the aperture in said eyelet portion when the tail portion is pulled through the aperture. In use, the free end of the tail portion may be bent around a support structure such as through a button hole and passed through the aperture through the eyelet portion.

Abstract: A restraining strap includes a waistband for circumferentially transversing the waist of the user having thereon a yoke. The yoke comprises a first length and a second length when extended from the waistband, where each of the first and second lengths has a proximal end fixedly attached to different locations on the waistband. A distal end of each of the first and second lengths are attached one to the other at or near each of the distal ends of the first and second lengths. Restrainers are positioned proximate the distal end to form a holder therebetween. The article may be enclosed by the holder such that the restraining maintains the suspended article from motion relative the user.

Abstract: A fixing apparatus for a portable telephone includes an engaging device connected to the portable telephone, a socket for detachably receiving the engaging device, and a cramp connected to the socket for fixing itself and the socket on an objective body such as a belt. The engaging device is allowed to slide in the socket and may be manually made to turn substantially ninety-degrees in the socket thereby being located in place in the socket. When the engaging device is located in place in the socket, it may be manually made to turn ninety-degrees in the socket and may be manually pulled to slide out from the socket.

Abstract: An assembly for supporting a camera from an individual's body includes a storage case having an adjustable body encircling belt and a unipod stand having a vertically adjustable camera engaging portion. A mounting track is mounted to the storage case and the unipod stand includes a mounting base for engaging the mounting track to secure the unipod stand to the storage case. When mounted to a storage case supported from an individual's body, the individual's hands are free to adjust the camera and perform other tasks.

Abstract: An improved multi-purpose holster apparatus suitable for holding a variety of objects including flashlights, mobile telephones, tools, etc., wherein the apparatus comprises a rigid or semi-rigid frame defining a channel for receiving a belt, a female adapter protruding from the frame, an object support adapter which supports the object to be mounted to the frame and a male adapter extending from the object support adapter which mates with the female adapter for mounting the object and the object support adapter to the frame.

Abstract: The invention relates to a carrier device for appliances such as video cameras, which device facilitates the stable support of a video camera, in use. The device includes two carrier members that are pivotally connected at one of their ends, whereas their opposite ends are connected by a flexible strap element whereby the carrier members can be held in an operative configuration in which an acute angle is defined between them. A mounting structure is located on one of the carrier members at its pivotally connected end, permitting a video camera to be mounted on the carrier device and use of the camera by holding the carrier device against the shoulder of a person with the strap element abutting the shoulder. In this configuration the video camera can be conveniently directed at a target, whereas a part of its mass is effectively carried by the person's shoulder.

Abstract: A camera mounting assembly for a bicycle having a steering head and a seat post comprising two elongated beam members and support mounting members for mounting the beam members horizontally on the bicycle between the head and post. A camera mounting member is secured to the beam members by connecting members which permit selective securing of the camera mounting member in the direction of the elongation of the beam members. Additionally a stem mount for mounting a camera on the stem portion of the bicycle is provided which comprises a bracket having a plate portion and a C-shaped member connected to the ends of the plate.

Abstract: An assembly for operatively supporting a camera from an individual's body which includes a storage case having an adjustable body encircling belt and a tripod stand having a vertically adjustable camera engaging unit mounted thereto. The tripod stand includes locking elements at the base of each of its legs which are selectively engageable with cooperative locking elements mounted to the surface of the storage case whereby when the locking elements of the legs of the tripod stand and the storage case are engaged, the assembly is supported from the individuals body leaving the individual free to use their hands without having to support the camera.

Abstract: A multi-faceted photographer's vest (10) includes a half of a typical camera strap (12) extending from the right shoulder area, and a half of a typical camera strap (14) extending from the left shoulder area. Each camera strap half (12),(14) has a material end (16),(18) that is sewn or stitched to the vest (10) in the right and left shoulder areas, respectively, so that they are permanently and securely attached thereto. Each camera strap half (12),(14) also has a free end (20),(22) that lays approximately mid-torso, on the right and left sides, respectively, of a vest wearer (24). The free end (20),(22) of each camera strap half (12),(14) is attached to a camera (42) in a typical manner. The vest (10) also provides several pockets and compartments (44),(62) for storing photography related accessories and other items.

Abstract: The support arm of a camera stabilizing device is provided with a tensioning assembly which is mated to the support arm in a fashion which permits continuous adjustment of the geometric relationship between the end points of the tensioning assembly and the remaining structures which comprise the support arm. This can include adjustment of the frame of the support arm, or adjustment of an end point of the tensioning assembly relative to the frame of the support arm using a cable and drum arrangement coupled with a spring of appropriate size and tension.

Abstract: A reversible, deformable camera carrying case is disclosed wherein the latch for closing the case is formed by two flaps that wrap around the lenspiece. This case is especially useful for holding a camera having a longer lens. A clipping device attached to the case to ensure the camera is not separated from the case is also disclosed.

Abstract: A device for translating motion of an operator's wrist and arms into controlled movement of a motion picture camera or other instrument comprises a mounting plate, a pair of spaced outer yokes coupled thereto, a pivotal inner member pivotally mounted within each of the outer yokes at opposed pivot points defining a pivot axis, and a pair of hand grips rigidly mounted within the inner members at a selected angle to the pivot axis. The outer yokes are preferably open rings having a pair of free-ends, and the inner yokes are preferably closed rings.

Abstract: Multi-purpose holster apparatus is provided which is suitable for holding a variety of objects including portable tools, mobile telephones, flashlights, cameras, etc. The holster employs a rigid or semi-rigid frame which has a section which mates with a corresponding section on the object to be holstered. The frame is attachable to a belt or a waistband to allow a rapid drawing of the object that is holstered.

Abstract: A camera lens case (10) is provided, having a generally tubular case body (4) with a plurality of adjustment strap assemblies (18) attached thereto such that the case body (14) may be constricted inward so as to closely support lenses (12, 54, 56 contained therein even when the lenses (12, 54, 56 may differ as to size or shape, or when the lenses are of irregular shape. A case lid (16) is flexibly attached to the case body (14) for securing the lenses (12, 54, 56 within the lens case (10) and a zipper (48) is provided for holding the case lid (16) closed. A belt loop (52) is provided for optionally carrying the camera lens case (10) thereby. The camera lens case (10 ) may optionally be used as a divider within a larger conventional camera bag (60).

Abstract: The support arm of a camera stabilizing device is provided with a tensioning assembly which is mated to the support arm in a fashion which permits continuous adjustment of the geometric relationship between the end points of the tensioning assembly and the remaining structures which comprise the support arm. This can include adjustment of the frame of the support arm, or adjustment of an end point of the tensioning assembly relative to the frame of the support arm using a cable and drum arrangement coupled with a spring of appropriate size and tension.

Abstract: A reusable carrying sleeve for a recyclable, single use camera is constructed of resilient foam and includes a peripheral wall section for surrounding a camera housing and a front panel joined to a forward part of the peripheral wall for forming a semi-enclosure around a camera inserted into the sleeve. The front panel has apertures and cut-outs sized and aligned to permit normal functioning of the camera lens, viewfinder, flash, and film winder. A carrying strap is affixed to the peripheral wall for toting around the sleeve and the retained camera. The peripheral wall includes an interior perimetal surface designed with a size and shape to frictionally grip the camera, while the exterior surface of the sleeve can appear plain or have virtually any decorative indicia, making the sleeve particularly attractive to variously aged photographers.

Abstract: Disclosed is a support apparatus for an optical instrument, such as a camera or binoculars. A generally rectangular mounting platform for holding the instrument in a preferred attitude includes a first securing slot for removable attachment of the instrument to the platform. A second securing slot provides removable attachment of additional accessories, such as an elongate brace comprising a plurality of interengaged tubes for telescoping extension of the brace. The brace extends downwardly from the platform when engaged therewith, providing a propping capability of the brace. Further, the elongate brace includes a belt engagement clip at its distal end such that the brace may be rested between a belt of a person and an associated garment adjacent to the belt for improved anchoring of the brace. The platform may provide two upwardly curved end portions for cradling a binocular therebetween, and a strap for holding the binocular in place on the platform.

Abstract: A carrying pack for photographic and similar equipment such as cameras and camcorders having a padded vest covering the chest of the photographer-user. The vest is secured to the user by detachable belt and straps extending to a lumbar member. The camera is secured to the shoulder area of the pack by floating adjustable straps. In the stored position, the camera assumes a position against the pad and is restrained by one or more adjustable retainer straps. In use, the camera may be quickly raised and the floating straps provide additional stability to steady the camera during use. An optional weather cover may be secured to the pad to cover the camera when not in use.

Abstract: A strapping structure for an optical instrument such as a camera, a video camera, a binocular and so on, which is capable of performing as more than two straps having different functions such as a grip strap and a shoulder strap. The strapping structure comprises a loop-shaped strap which is installed on the camera body, and a stopper provided on an intermediate portion of the loop-shaped strap. The stopper is shiftable along a longitudinal direction of the strap, and forms a large loop-shaped first strap serving for example as a shoulder strap and a small loop-shaped second strap serving for example as a grip strap. The loop-shaped strap, which is positioned adjacent to the camera body, is provided with a pad. This pad can be used as a pad receiving a back of hand or a shoulder pad.

Abstract: A shoulder rest member includes a support plate having a rotatable fastener directed orthogonally therethrough for securement to a camera base, with the rest structure further including a connecting plate orthogonally mounted to the support plate, with the connecting plate extending from the support plate to an arcuate saddle plate, having a concave support surface for accommodating an individual's shoulder thereon. The camera member is arranged for rotative mounting upon the support plate. A matrix of spring connected plates are optionally provided for spring mounting to the concave support.

Abstract: A body mounted camera support for use with cameras of different sizes and types. This support provides a hands-free, secure support for the camera either in the horizontal or vertical position. The support includes a shoulder yoke for balance and support. Attached to the yoke, in front of the shoulder, by means of a securing device, is the hinged camera support arm. The arm has a telescoping vertical support which moves vertically and secures to the waist belt. The arm also uses a hinged, interlocking device to allow itself to sit securely either in the horizontal position while in use, or in the vertical position while at rest. The camera is connected to the support arm by means of the camera linking device, whose topside screws into the screw hole in the camera, and whose bottom side is secured into slots on the support arm. Attached around the yoke are two straps which go down the back of the user. The straps attach to a belt which goes around the user's waist.