Including Detailed Mount For Article (e.g., Camera) Patents (Class 248/187.1)
  • Patent number: 9386832
    Abstract: A protective handheld electronics case with integrated extension device, which may safely and securely extend an encased personal electronics device via a telescoping rod assembly. The telescoping rod assembly extends the personal electronics device beyond arms reach and locks the device at a specific recording angle set by the user. This function is specifically helpful when the camera is oriented on the user for self portraits. This function allows the user to ability to take self portraits or video without the undesirable need to fully extend the user's arms. Therefore, in general, a user is enabled to take self portraits with a greater field of view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Extendapic LLC
    Inventor: Steven L. Elgan
  • Patent number: 9383632
    Abstract: A stand (20) for video-photographic apparatuses comprises a support member (2), a support plate (3) which is fixed to the member (2) and which is intended to receive a video-photographic apparatus and which is provided with hooking means (4) for hooking the video-photographic apparatus to the support plate (3), a level indicator (5) which is suitable for indicating the positioning of the apparatus with respect to a horizontal plane and which is provided with fixing means (6) which are arranged for cooperating with corresponding fixing counter-means (7), the fixing counter-means (7) provided on the plate (3) in order to fix the level indicator (5) to the plate (3), wherein the fixing means (6) and the fixing counter-means (7) are configured in such a manner that the level indicator (5) can be fixed in at least two different positions on the plate (3), the positions being suitably spaced apart from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: LINO MANFROTTO+Co S.P.A
    Inventors: Paolo Speggiorin, Andrea Mendo
  • Patent number: 9329268
    Abstract: A parking sensor and observation system for a vehicle, including: an elongated housing, wherein the housing has a front side with first to third openings and a back side with an elongated opening, the first and third openings are adjacent to opposite ends of the housing, the second opening is located at a center portion of the housing; a first parking sensor disposed within the housing and having its proximity detector disposed in the first opening; a second parking sensor disposed within the housing and having its proximity detector disposed in the third opening; a camera disposed within the housing and having its lens disposed in the second opening; and a backing plate disposed at the back side of the housing to seal the elongated opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: VOXX INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
    Inventor: Christopher A. Luft
  • Patent number: 9298067
    Abstract: A camera mounting assembly includes a base member or plate for holding a camera and a side member or plate. In an exemplary embodiment, lower slots on the base plate or side slots on the side plate are gripped by a vertical support's quick-release mechanism to mount the camera in a landscape or portrait orientation, respectively, the camera being generally centered and evenly balanced over the support in either case. The side member is detachably fastened to the base member, which modular construction permits separately timed purchase of the base member and side member as allowed by the user's budget and further permits breakdown of the assembly for ease of transport. The side member may be generally L-shaped with a lower arm length less than the side arm length, which also facilitates transport. Other components may be detachably added such as a hand grip facilitating freehand shooting with the camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Assignee: Really Right Stuff, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph M. Johnson, Sr.
  • Patent number: 9243741
    Abstract: A telescoping monopod apparatus that is configured to hold a photographic instrument. The telescoping monopod apparatus includes a body that houses a control component and an electronic component. The body has a rotatable bottom end. The telescoping monopod apparatus includes a plurality of shafts disposed in an interior of the body. The upper end is opposite of the rotatable bottom end. The telescoping monopod apparatus includes a ball disposed on an uppermost shaft of the plurality of shafts. The telescoping monopod apparatus includes a spheroidal joint that is configured to receive the ball on a first end. The spheroidal joint is attached to a holder on a second end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Intellectual Fortress, LLC
    Inventor: Kevin Hwading Chu
  • Patent number: 9132779
    Abstract: A dash mount for securing a plurality of electronic devices to the front dash of a vehicle. The dash mount includes a base having a top surface with a top slot formed therein, as well as a rotatable mounting screw with a threaded portion extending upward, through the top slot, to project above the top surface. The dash mount also includes a support bracket having a first arm receivable within the top slot and a second arm with a device connector located at its distal end. The mounting screw extends through a straight aperture in the first arm to threadably engage with a first electronic device located on the top surface, to secure both the support bracket and the first device to the base, while the device connector on the second arm receives and supports a second electronic device in a location spaced from the first device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Assignee: Omix-Ada, Inc.
    Inventors: Ali Azadi, Jacob Heaven
  • Patent number: 9097962
    Abstract: A two-piece extendable L-plate provides clearance between a camera and a quick-release receiver securing the camera to a support permitting a camera having cables connected to the side of the camera's body to be secured in either a landscape or a portrait orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Inventors: Joseph M. Johnson, Sr., Matthew L. Burk
  • Patent number: 9097963
    Abstract: A camera mounting assembly includes a base member or plate for holding a camera and a side member or plate. In an exemplary embodiment, lower slots on the base plate or side slots on the side plate are gripped by a vertical support's quick-release mechanism to mount the camera in a landscape or portrait orientation, respectively, the camera being generally centered and evenly balanced over the support in either case. The side member is detachably fastened to the base member, which modular construction permits separately timed purchase of the base member and side member as allowed by the user's budget and further permits breakdown of the assembly for ease of transport. The side member may be generally L-shaped with a lower arm length less than the side arm length, which also facilitates transport. Other components may be detachably added such as a hand grip facilitating freehand shooting with the camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Inventor: Joseph M. Johnson, Sr.
  • Patent number: 9091377
    Abstract: An outdoor insulated pipe and duct mounting system includes a wall mounted receiver arranged to receive an insulated pipe or duct provided with an insulation pipe protector which connects and seals to the receiver. The combined system is able to accommodate insulated pipes of different sized diameters and can accommodate one or more inlets within the same receiver with a high degree of flexibility and unique mechanical connection security. The mounted wall receiver system is arranged to receive the insulated piping from any directional angle with a unique full rotation inlet capability. The system serves buildings with outdoor installed air conditioning line sets, insulated pipes, and conduit that have the need to penetrate the building envelope in order to be connected to the buildings indoor mechanical, plumbing, or electrical systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Inventor: Gabriel V. Lechuga
  • Patent number: 9070298
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a vehicle model is disclosed. The vehicle model includes a main vehicle module including a primary base and a number of components. The number of main vehicle module components is moveably mounted to the main vehicle module primary base. The vehicle model also includes a secondary vehicle module including a number of components. The main vehicle module and secondary vehicle modules are relatively positionable relative to one another to obtain a first and second vehicle configuration. The first and second vehicle configurations are different from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Vijitha Senaka Kiridena, Ksenia Kozak, Nanxin Wang, Jeffrey Allen Greenberg, Gary Steven Strumolo
  • Patent number: 9063397
    Abstract: A panoramic device includes a base member and a clamp member rotatably interconnected within a single plane of rotation with the base that includes a first rotatable knob to selectively inhibit the rotation of the clamp member with respect to the base. The upper surface includes a central region that is at a different elevation than another portion of the upper surface. The clamp includes a pair of opposed surfaces suitable to detachably secure a camera thereto. The one of the opposed surfaces is maintained in a fixed relationship with respect to the clamp member. The other one of the opposed surfaces is in a movable relationship with respect to the clamp member using a second rotatable knob. The first knob and the second knob are rotatably connected with respect to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Inventor: Joseph M. Johnson, Sr.
  • Patent number: 9052574
    Abstract: A two-piece extendable L-plate provides clearance between a camera and a quick-release receiver securing the camera to a support permitting a camera having cables connected to the side of the camera's body to be secured in either a landscape or a portrait orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Inventors: Joseph M. Johnson, Sr., Matthew L. Burk
  • Publication number: 20150129523
    Abstract: A stand for securely and gently cradling a stringed instrument such as a guitar. The stand includes a pair of cradling arms and at least one support member both mounted for movement relative to a base member. A user places the guitar on the generally horizontally oriented support member depressing it downward which causes movement of the cradling arms from an outward open position to an inward closed position latterly supporting the body of the stringed instrument. Movement of the two cradling arms is coordinated by providing a single support member or by attaching to support members to a common yoke mounted for vertical movement on the base member. Each stand can be mounted on a separate stabilizing platform, or a plurality of stands can be mounted to adapters along a storage rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventor: Esteban Cortina
  • Patent number: 8998513
    Abstract: A unipod rotating apparatus includes a main rod, an adapting platform fixing photographic equipment, and a rotating device connecting the adapting platform to the main rod in a rotatable manner, in which the rotating device includes a rotating tube, a first connecting structure, a second connecting structure and a rotation connecting structure, in which the rotating tube is sleeved around the main rod; the first connecting structure fixedly connects the adapting platform to the upper end of the rotating tube; the second connecting structure is fixedly connected to the upper end of the main rod; and the rotation connecting structure is arranged between the first connecting structure and the second connecting structure, such that the first connecting structure and the second connecting structure are connected with each other in a relatively rotatable manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignees: Zhongshan Sirui Photographic Equipment Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jie Li
  • Patent number: 8979058
    Abstract: A tripod head panel device of a tripod head comprises a tripod head panel and a removably mounted snap-fit plate. The tripod head panel comprises a fixed plate, a moveable plate mounted underneath the fixed plate, and a driving plate mounted underneath the moveable plate. The fixed plate comprises a supporting base plate and a first retaining wall protruding upward from the supporting base plate. The moveable plate comprises a supporting base plate and a second retaining wall protruding upward from the supporting base plate, with a driving hole provided in the center of the moveable plate. The driving plate comprises a base mounted underneath the moveable plate and a handle extending from an end of the base, with an offset cam inside the driving hole formed on the seat. The snap-fit plate is mounted on the supporting base plate between the first and the second retaining walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Lap Shun Manufacture Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shuqiang Li
  • Publication number: 20150069664
    Abstract: The invention comprises a flying table concrete form. The flying table concrete form comprises a concrete forming deck comprising a first concrete forming panel having a first primary surface adapted for forming and contacting plastic concrete and a second primary surface opposite the first primary surface, a layer of insulating material contacting and substantially covering the second primary surface of the first concrete forming panel, and a second panel contacting and substantially covering the layer of insulating material. The flying table concrete form also comprises a plurality of deck support members extending transversely with respect to the second panel, wherein the first concrete forming panel defines a plane and wherein no portion of the deck support members are in the plane defined by the first concrete forming panel. A method of using the flying table concrete form is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: Romeo Ilarian Ciuperca
  • Patent number: 8960211
    Abstract: The invention combines the functionality of a hiking pole and a camera tripod. A hiking pole is augmented with an attachment for a camera and with a plurality of flexible tethers, each of which have one end that attaches near the top of the pole and the other end which can be stood on or otherwise immobilized relative to the ground. The combination of the tethers and the rigid pole will restrict all freedom of motion of the camera and allow stabilized, long exposure pictures to be taken. When not taking pictures, in the preferred embodiment of the invention, the tethers can be retracted and stored, leaving the user with a functioning hiking pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventor: Bruce Colin Eng
  • Patent number: 8955807
    Abstract: The invention is a security bracket assembly for preventing theft of camera lenses from cameras that are on display at retail locations. The bracket assembly carries and partially receives the camera body. The assembly has a forward shield that prevents finger access to the lens release mechanism that allows detachment of the lens from the camera body. The forward shield may be removed from the assembly so that a camera lens can be swapped without disconnecting other security or power features associated with the camera display post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Mobile Tech, Inc.
    Inventors: Chris Alexander, Eric Pitt, Wade Wheeler
  • Publication number: 20150028169
    Abstract: An optics support system and apparatus are provided. The optics support system may comprise a first member, a second member, a base, and a support strap. The first member may be attached to a top rest at one end, and the base at the other end. The second member may extend at an angle from the middle of the first member, and may be attached to a side rest at the opposite end. The base may be configured to have at least one aperture. The support strap may be configured to attach to the base by extending a portion of it through the at least one aperture of the base. A frictional adjuster may optionally be attached to the support strap to make the support strap adjustable in length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventor: Jeffrey Allen Terpening
  • Patent number: 8905654
    Abstract: A network camera comprising a casing and a base is provided. The casing has a slot. The base comprises a supporter and a joint rod. The joint rod has a joint terminal and an engaging terminal. The joint terminal is pivotally connected to the supporter. The engaging terminal has an engaging flange engaged within the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Sercomm Corporation
    Inventors: Sung-Chun Hung, Cheng-Chung Chang
  • Patent number: 8894302
    Abstract: Described herein is an elevated system that can be used for various purposes including capturing images or video at an elevated height. In one embodiment, the elevated system includes support members and a mechanism (e.g., gimbal, pivot) that is coupled to at least one support member. The mechanism provides a range of motion along independent axes. An elongated member is coupled to the mechanism. The mechanism is capable of providing movement of the elongated member with a range of motion of three hundred and sixty degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Bert Gerard Tardieu
  • Patent number: 8872660
    Abstract: A powered item attachment device includes an onboard power supply and alarm system that sounds in the event a protected device is tampered with or removed from a retail display. The powered item attachment device may also track the location of a protected device if it is removed from the display device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventors: Geoff Yunker, Walter V. Raczynski V, Charles L. Zimnicki
  • Patent number: 8870146
    Abstract: A stand assembly for holding handheld electronic devices in a multitude of positions or locations having a first section with a curved end magnetically attached to second section having and indented surface. The first section also attaches to a surface, the second section either is contiguous with a portable electronic device, a carrying case, or other item; or has a means to attach to another surface. A high-friction elastomeric material, or similar friction producing material, helps to secure the first and second sections together, or the second section against another flat magnetic surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Nite Ize, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Vogel, Paul Turner
  • Patent number: 8836508
    Abstract: Anti-theft protection systems and methods for portable devices, such as portable electronic devices, that are unattended during use. The anti-theft protection systems and methods use a combination of measures including mechanical aspects, such as tethering the device to an object that is difficult to move, and electronic aspects that detect unauthorized movement and or alarm the user or other responsible party if unauthorized movement occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: H4 Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott K. Taylor, Christopher T. Boyle, Alexander G. Sammons, Denes Marton
  • Patent number: 8827219
    Abstract: A mounting system having a plate with a tail portion and a base with a socket portion. The socket includes a dropping gate which recedes into a compartment in the base when the plate is vertically inserted on the base. The base includes a stop which engages a catch on the plate to prevent the plate from being laterally removed from the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Kessler Crane, Inc.
    Inventors: Erin Kessler, Richard Eggink, Kevin P. Mott
  • Patent number: 8830391
    Abstract: The present invention provides a telescoping monopod apparatus for holding one or more cameras while a digital photograph or video recording is taken by a user, including: a plurality of concentrically-disposed telescoping shaft sections; a handle coupled to the plurality of concentrically-disposed telescoping shaft sections; and a head portion configured to receive and secure a camera, wherein the head portion includes: a neck portion; at least one substantially-flat camera-receiving surface; a pair of lipped retention members coupled to each of the substantially-flat camera-receiving surfaces present; and a central track structure coupled to each of the substantially-flat camera-receiving surfaces present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Goscope, LLC
    Inventor: Kyle Scarola
  • Patent number: 8827574
    Abstract: A camera mounting assembly includes a base member or plate for holding a camera and a side member or plate. In an exemplary embodiment, lower slots on the base plate or side slots on the side plate are gripped by a vertical support's quick-release mechanism to mount the camera in a landscape or portrait orientation, respectively, the camera being generally centered and evenly balanced over the support in either case. The side member is detachably fastened to the base member, which modular construction permits separately timed purchase of the base member and side member as allowed by the user's budget and further permits breakdown of the assembly for ease of transport. The side member may be generally L-shaped with a lower arm length less than the side arm length, which also facilitates transport. Other components may be detachably added such as a hand grip facilitating freehand shooting with the camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Inventor: Joseph M. Johnson
  • Patent number: 8821044
    Abstract: The invention is a clamping device for securing photographic equipment, which includes a mounting plate to a supporting structure, such as a tripod and or to a strap. The device includes a pair of opposed sliding clamps operably attached to a base. The clamp engages opposite sides of the base and may each be moved independently of one another to secure the supporting structure and to provide the capability to adjust to small variations in mounting plate sizes between equipment brands. The device has a loop to connect a strap or a strap connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventor: Scott Dordick
  • Patent number: 8817178
    Abstract: The present invention provides a means for mounting a distance magnification device such as binoculars and a visual recording device such as a camera, simultaneously on a single recording device mount. The embodiment provides a means of configuring the distance magnification device and the visual recording device such that both may be trained on a common focal point. An example embodiment comprises a primary mounting means having a base and a substantially vertical, longitudinal member. A secondary vertical member is engaged with the primary mounting means and includes an interference means to engage the members along a longitudinal range of motion. The secondary vertical member includes a horizontal shaft including a knob at the proximal end and an engagement means at the distal end, providing engagement with a common fitting found on many binoculars. The secondary vertical member further comprises an engagement means for engaging with the visual recording device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Inventor: Gary Wayne Baker
  • Patent number: 8814128
    Abstract: A display fixture for securely displaying a mobile device includes a cross brace and at least two corner members. The cross brace defines a center portion and arms each radially extending outwardly therefrom and terminating in a free end opposite the center portion. The at least two corner members each include a first substantially planar wall, a second substantially planar wall, and two sidewalls extending between substantially linear closed edges of the first substantially planar wall and the second substantially planar wall. A cavity is defined by each of the at least two corner members and is configured to receive a corner of the mobile device. Each of the at least two corner members is secured to a different free end of the cross brace such that an opening to the cavity of each of the at least two corner members faces the center portion of the cross brace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Nick Q. Trinh, Joseph H. Bowser, Justin T. Werth
  • Patent number: 8807496
    Abstract: A mount having a plate with a tail portion and a base with a socket portion. The socket includes a dropping gate which recedes into a compartment in the base when the plate is vertically inserted on the base. The base includes a stop which engages a catch on the plate to prevent the plate from being laterally removed from the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Kessler Crane, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Kessler, Richard Egglnk
  • Patent number: 8794575
    Abstract: A quick-release device for clamping a quick-change plate of an optical device in a guide on a baseplate, the quick-change plate and the guide comprising complementarily formed guide surfaces, the guide comprising first and second mounting elements adjustable relative to each other, and a device for fixing the quick-change plate in place designed for adjusting the distance of the mounting elements to each other, characterized in that the device for fixing the quick-change plate in place comprises a lever engaging with a cam in a slotted link disposed in the first mounting element, such that a motion of the lever adjusts the first mounting element relative to the second mounting element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Inventor: Philippe Vogt
  • Patent number: 8783973
    Abstract: A hand held camera unit comprises a shoulder assembly and a platform assembly for releasably holding a camera. A connector is provided between the shoulder assembly and the platform assembly, and is movable between a locked position wherein the platform assembly is fixed relative to the shoulder assembly and an unlocked position wherein the platform assembly can be selectively moved relative to the shoulder assembly in the roll axis, the yaw axis and in a fore and aft direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Truality, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen Pizzo, Hector Ortega
  • Patent number: 8770866
    Abstract: A camera swing head includes a hub having a hole ring including a plurality of radially spaced apart holes. A swing plate is rotatably attached to the hub. An indexing and locking assembly allows the swing to be quickly and easily rotated to a desired position and then locked into place. The indexing and locking assembly may include a lever pivotally attached to the swing plate, and a plunger pivotally attached to a front end of the lever. Pivoting movement of the lever may move the plunger linearly on a radial axis intersecting a center of the hub. A release pin is movable from, a first position, wherein the release pin causes the plunger to be held out from engagement with one of the radially spaced apart holes, to a second position, wherein the plunger is movable into engagement with one of the radially spaced apart holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Chapman/Leonard Studio Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Leonard T. Chapman
  • Patent number: 8767392
    Abstract: A portable electronic device is provided. The portable electronic device includes a body, an operation interface, a supporting element and an image capturing unit. A receiving recess is formed on the body. The operation interface is disposed on the body. The supporting element is rotated between a first orientation and a second orientation relative to the body, wherein when the supporting element is in the first orientation, the supporting element is in the receiving recess, and when the supporting element is in a second orientation, an angle is formed between the supporting element and the body, wherein the angle is greater than 0 degree. The image capturing unit is disposed in the supporting element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: HTC Corporation
    Inventor: Chih-Kuang Wang
  • Patent number: 8754981
    Abstract: An imaging apparatus capable of reducing increase in the temperature of a supporting device coupling section is provided. The imaging apparatus includes a supporting device fixing portion having a screw hole to which a supporting device can be coupled, a supporting device receiving portion which has an exposed surface formed around the entrance of the screw hole and is configured to receive the supporting device, and an exterior section having an outer surface formed around an opening. The supporting device fixing portion and the supporting device receiving portion are formed as separate portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Makoto Iyoda, Yoshikazu Yamano, Shinya Ogasawara, Tomonori Mizutani, Yasuhiro Miyamoto
  • Patent number: 8740160
    Abstract: The present invention is directed towards ball and socket joint connectors which, when interconnected, form a flexible assembly. In some embodiments, the ball and socket joint connectors are designed and constructed such that the interference fit of the ball and socket causes creep in the material resulting in more even frictions in the various ball and socket joints. In some embodiments, the ball and socket joint connectors utilize an over-molded strip around the outside of the connector to facilitate in their use for gripping. In an exemplary embodiment utilizing the aforementioned ball and socket joint connectors, a tripod apparatus uses legs comprising the ball and socket joint connectors for support and for gripping objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Daymen US, Inc.
    Inventor: Joeben Bevirt
  • Patent number: 8733712
    Abstract: Provided herein is a monopod or device for supporting a photographic instrument or accessory, such as a camera. The monopod or device comprises extendable members, e.g., an extendable mounting member with a mounting assembly and an extendable middle member with a threadably engagable, rotatable locking mechanism, a base member and an extension mechanism. The locking mechanism is configured to quickly lock the extendable members at an extended length or to collapse the same. The extension mechanism is disposed within the extendable and base members and secured independently to the same. This configuration enables a single smooth release with extending motion of the locking mechanism to telescopically extend or, conversely, collapse the extendable member portions of the monopod device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventor: Ye Xu
  • Patent number: 8678680
    Abstract: A headrest camera mounting system, comprising, in combination a base member having a headrest end and a camera mount end and an intermediate portion there between. The base member is coupled to an upright post. There is an upright cross member having a generally rectilinear configuration being coupled to the upright post. Lastly there is a least one camera mount, with the camera mount being coupled to the upright cross member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventor: Mark Pelini
  • Patent number: 8651440
    Abstract: A portable mast capable of supporting a payload that can be fastened to and detached from an unsteady, inclined or irregular surface of attachment. The improvements include a tensioning cable which exerts pressure on the base of the mast in opposition to the surface of attachment, a guide protecting the cable from abrasion, means for adjusting and retaining tension in the cable when the mast is fastened to the surface of attachment, a base capable of housing the fastener to protect the fastener from corrosion and tampering, a base allowing attachment to and pass-through of existing cords crossing the surface of attachment, and a base having resilient compression to conform to an irregular surface of attachment while maintaining pressure between the base and surface of attachment created by tensioning of the cable. Also disclosed is a mast with mechanical means for increasing cable tension in order to secure its tripod base to a surface of attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Steven J. Hollinger
  • Patent number: 8628258
    Abstract: A holder for an optical device for changing the orientation of the optical device, such as for photographic, video or film cameras, having a first component having a first pivot axis for connecting to a tripod and a second component having a second pivot axis for connecting to the optical device, wherein the two pivot axes extend transversely with respect to each other and can each be adjusted in a mutually independent manner, wherein the first pivot axis is arranged in the first component and the second pivot axis is likewise arranged in the first component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Inventor: Philippe Vogt
  • Patent number: 8602376
    Abstract: A stand assembly for holding handheld electronic devices in a multitude of positions or locations having a first section with a curved end magnetically attached to second section having and indented surface. The first section also attaches to a surface, the second section either is contiguous with a portable electronic device, a carrying case, or other item; or has a means to attach to another surface. A high-friction elastomeric material, or similar friction producing material, helps to secure the first and second sections together, or the second section against another flat magnetic surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Nite Ize, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Vogel, Paul Turner
  • Patent number: 8596890
    Abstract: Provided is a pan-tilt apparatus for a surveillance camera, including an image capturing unit 100 including a camera 2 and a camera holder 4 for supporting the camera 2; a motion converter 150 including a driving shaft 10, a shaft 20 connected to a connector 14 inserted into the driving shaft 10, a base member 30 inserted into one side of the driving shaft 10 and of which both ends are inserted in the shaft 20 by including a bearing 24, a bearing 32 installed in a lower portion of the base member 30 to smoothen an operation of the base member 30, and first and second worms 50 and 52 inserted into the base member 30 and mutually connected with first and second worm gears 40 and 42 to rotate; and a driving unit 250 including first and second motors 80 and 82 being connected to first and second motor shafts 60 and 62 to be inserted into the first and second worm gears 40 and 42.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Robomech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jin Whan Yim, Tae Hoon Kwon, Gyu Bong Han
  • Patent number: 8596892
    Abstract: A pan and tilt head for supporting a payload such as a TV, video or motion picture camera comprising a base and a tiltable support including a platform for receiving a payload pivotally mounted on the base to tilt about a horizontal axis to either side of a neutral position in which the platform is generally horizontal. A balancing mechanism for the platform includes an adjustable spring mechanism mounted on the base to enable a pre-load in the spring mechanism to be varied and means coupling the tilting support to the spring mechanism. Adjustable mounting for one end of the spring mechanism includes an upright post mounted on the base and having rotary height adjustment. A manually operable rotary thumb wheel is mounted on the base for rotation about an upright axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: The Vitec Group PLC
    Inventors: Andrew Derek Murrow, Jolyon Francis Torbitt
  • Patent number: 8578647
    Abstract: Systems and methods for securely mounting devices and/or accessories to vehicles and/or other supporting structures. The systems include a shaft having a longitudinal axis. A pair of clamp bodies cooperates with the shaft so that a distance is defined between the clamp bodies. A lever is engaged with the shaft and operable to alter the distance between the clamp bodies. A lock supported by the lever movably engages the shaft and maintains the orientation of the clamp bodies relative to one another by maintaining an orientation of the lever relative to the shaft so that the lever can only be operated when the lock is disengaged from the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: American Defense Manufacturing, LLC
    Inventors: Troy Storch, John Gross, William Orne, III, Eric Stephen Kincel
  • Patent number: 8573865
    Abstract: An adapter plate for a camera comprises a first side and a second side opposite to the first side. There are least two threaded apertures extending into the first side of the adapter plate. There is also an opening extending through the adapter plate from the first side of the adapter plate to the second side of the adapter plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Andrew Chamberlayne
  • Patent number: 8568042
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a camera support device. The camera support device includes a mounting assembly adapted to releasably mount a camera. The camera support device further includes at least one tuning element in communication with the mounting assembly, the tuning element being adjustable so as to permit tuning of a natural frequency of the mounting assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Gregory Brueckner, Matthew Thomas Valente
  • Patent number: 8561952
    Abstract: A column attachment having an abutment, a platform, a tension member, and a securing element that are used to provide a stable support for a device. The tension member secures the platform to the abutment. The securing portion is able to slide along a slot defined in the platform. The securing portion is able to attach to devices, like total stations, and secure them to the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Inventor: Mark Pfeiler
  • Patent number: 8559666
    Abstract: A speaker device having a speaker section firmly fixed to a stand section so the orientation of the speaker section relative to the stand section can be easily adjusted. The speaker device includes a speaker section, a stand section, and a fastening section for fastening the speaker section and the stand section to each other. The speaker section includes an engaging groove section, and a curved, contact receiving section which allows the angle of the speaker section relative to the stand section to be adjusted. The fastening section includes an engaging section engaging with the engaging groove section, and a screw thread section connected to the engaging section and engaging with a screw thread hole formed in the stand section. The fixation of the speaker section to the stand section can be adjusted by rotating the screw thread section to engage the screw thread section with the hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Fujitsu Ten Limited
    Inventor: Kiyosei Shibata
  • Patent number: 8534934
    Abstract: The present invention is a dynamically balanced, lightweight multifunctional, camera stabilization device that allows a film or digital video camera to be flown out of arms reach of the operator and maintain orientation toward the subject matter, while allowing the operator smooth control of rotation or pan of the camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: Peter L. Carney