Abstract: A surveillance system is provided including a platform having a plurality and variety of cameras or sensors mounted thereto, and a base enclosure adapted to accommodate a power supply, a variety of electronics and other equipment for controlling and providing power to the surveillance equipment. The base is constructed to be tamper resistant and immovable by manual means. A substantially hollow support pole includes a lower portion detachably mounted to the base, and an upper portion mounted to the platform. Wires and cables for connecting the surveillance equipment with the electronics and power supply are run through the support pole. Power to the system may be supplied through existing power sources, for example a 120V power source.

Abstract: A support for a video camera comprising a seat, a vertical support frame on one side of the seat, an arm rest on the vertical camera support frame, and an elongated, adjustable boom extending outward from the vertical camera support. The boom is pivotally attached to the support frame to allow side-to-side movement and includes a centrally positioned elbow joint to allow vertical adjustment of the distal end of the boom. The boom includes a telescoping segment to adjust its length. The boom has a handle at the distal end. The handle includes a camera mount on its upper surface. The handle is attached to the boom by a ball and socket joint that allows full range of movement of the handle.

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: An articulated equipment support includes a pair of elongated support bars, arranged in fixed, spaced-apart relationship, and having their opposite ends joined respectively by a top cross rod and a bottom cross rod. Pivot pins join the opposite ends of the rods to the respective cross bars permitting pivotal, lateral movement of the support bars in unison so that a variety of geometric configurations such as a parallelogram or the like may be achieved. The top cross rod includes an end projection having a bearing surface for rotatably mounting a double C-clamp with an outwardly projecting flange terminating with a bearing for rotatably supporting an equipment platform. An adjustable lock is carried on the platform for releasably securing equipment thereto and a shoulder strap is provided having opposite ends attached to the bottom cross bar and an adjustable mid-section trained across or about the torso of the user.

Abstract: A shock and vibration isolator for a movie or video camera has a vertical axis system including a base, an arm pivotably attached to the base, and at least one spring connected to the base and to the arm. One or more dampeners are connected to the base and to the arm. A horizontal axis system is supported by the vertical axis system. A leveling linkage connects the vertical and horizontal axis systems. The leveling linkage has adjustment features that allow for compensation of camera lens angulation caused by movement of the camera supported on a vehicle rolling over rough or uneven ground. A camera or camera head is suspended, like a dampened pendulum, on the horizontal axis system.

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 surveillance system is provided including a platform having a plurality and variety of cameras or sensors mounted thereto, and a base enclosure adapted to accommodate a power supply, a variety of electronics and other equipment for controlling and providing power to the surveillance equipment. The base is constructed to be tamper resistant and immovable by manual means. A substantially hollow support pole includes a lower portion detachably mounted to the base, and an upper portion mounted to the platform. Wires and cables for connecting the surveillance equipment with the electronics and power supply are run through the support pole. Power to the system may be supplied through existing power sources, for example a 120V power source.

Abstract: An automated system for compensating the pan and tilt of a camera head for the movements of a camera support structure and/or a subject matter. A processing system receives signals relating to the movement of the camera support structure, such as the swing, boom and telescope of the crane arm, the movements of a dolly, and preferably the movements of a subject matter. The system employs these inputs to determine the position of the camera and subject matter in a defined world coordinate system and sends signals to compensate the pan and tilt of the camera head so that the field of view of the camera is generally centered on the subject matter being filmed as defined within the system.

Abstract: A camera stabilizer having a base with an aperture in front and in back, and in alignment with one other. A shoulder support, removably attachable to the base, has an adjustable rod extending forward of it with a detent at its distal end. The adjustable rod inserts into the base through its two apertures with the detent passing through the front aperture to prevent rearward movement of the adjustable rod. A second support removably attaches to the base. It has two telescoping rods connected to each other at their bottoms from which they are pivotable. Adjustable straps on one telescoping rod are adapted to wrap around one's back and fasten to themselves for greater stability. Another strap at the bottom of one telescoping rod is adapted to loop around one's belt and fasten to itself thereby providing addition stability and vertical support.

Abstract: An apparatus for producing motion pictures using real time composites of computer generated virtual backgrounds and live foreground images recorded on a sound stage includes camera motion tracking, automated lighting control, on-line editing, and production and asset management to accelerate the pace and reduce the cost of motion picture production.

Abstract: A surveillance system is provided including a platform having a plurality and variety of cameras or sensors mounted thereto, and a base enclosure adapted to accommodate a power supply, a variety of electronics and other equipment for controlling and providing power to the surveillance equipment. The base is constructed to be tamper resistant and immovable by manual means. A substantially hollow support pole includes a lower portion detachably mounted to the base, and an upper portion mounted to the platform. Wires and cables for connecting the surveillance equipment with the electronics and power supply are run through the support pole. Power to the system may be supplied through existing power sources, for example a 120V power source.

Abstract: A counter-balancing mechanism is provided that includes a support for supporting an article to be tilted about a horizontal axis, and an annular cam movable with the support, wherein the cam has a cam surface which varies in height in a direction normal to the plane of rotation of the support. A cam follower is loaded by a resilient member, whereby, as the support rotates, the cam follower and resilient member cause a return force to be exerted on the cam surface to substantially counteract the torque caused by the rotation of the support.

Abstract: A positioning device without backlash includes a table and at least one gear operatively associated with the table. At least one worm gear is connected to the gear and the gear is driven in a desired direction with a primary motor and a synchronized slave motor. The synchronized slave motor is then reversible to remove the backlash in the positioning device thereby permitting an actual position to correspond with a dialed-in position.

Abstract: A camera crane has a boom arm pivotably connected to a post assembly. A track section is pivotably attached to the front end of the boom arm, and is leveled via leveling rods. The boom arm has a joggled section to provide clearance for a camera operator. A camera frame carrying a camera is linearly moveable along the track section. Pivot joints provide for adjustable drag on pivoting movement, without backlash or slip/stick movement.

Abstract: An image projector includes a lamp box containing a lamp, a case for forming a housing for the projector and having an opening for inserting the lamp box into the housing, a lamp housing provided inside the case and used for fixing the lamp box, and a lamp door removably attached to the case and used for opening and closing the opening. The lamp door has a screw-turning component capable of engaging with a groove on the head of the fixing screw when removed from the case, and threadable tightening/loosening can be performed by rotating the lamp door with the screw-turning component engaged with the groove in the fixing screw. This allows the lamp box to be replaced without the need for a screw-turning tool.

Abstract: A process for maintaining an area using a non-invasive inspection device, the inspection device comprising at least: an imaging system having an adjustable field of view and an imaging device for transmitting an electrical signal corresponding to an area within the field of view; a portable support system operatively connected to the imaging system and adapted to provide functional support to the imaging system; and a positioning system connected to the imaging system and adapted for moving the imaging system independently of the portable support system; the process comprising: (a) positioning the imaging system independently of the support system such that a target area is in the field of view while at a first magnification level; (b) imaging a the target area at a second magnification level greater than the first magnification level; (c) outputting an image of the target area; (d) evaluating the image to determine whether the target area is acceptable or whether an invasive procedure needs to be performed;

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 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: This device for taking spherical pictures of a scene comprising a support (1, 2) provided with securement means (3) for a picture taking apparatus. This support can be on the one hand relatively rotatable about a substantially vertical axis (12) relative to the photographed scene and on the other hand the securement means (3) being movable in rotation relative to a substantially horizontal axis. Moreover, it is provided with means (1) permitting suspending it above the scene to be photographed. This suspended device can also comprise a support (1, 2) provided with securement means (17) for several photographic devices, these devices being adapted to be all oriented toward a point on the scene to be photographed and the support (1, 2) being adapted to be relatively rotatable about a substantially vertical axis (12) relative to the scene to be photographed.

Abstract: A device for rotating a body about two axes that includes a collector ring coupled to both a rotatable body and an axial movement drive mechanism for transmitting axial movements, so that rotary movements of the rotatable body about two axes are caused via axial movements of the collector ring, wherein a stator of the collector ring is seated, fixed against relative rotation, on a support body, and a rotor of the collector ring is connected with the rotatable body. At least one electrical unit, which is fixed against relative rotation with respect to the support body and is in electrical contact with the rotatable body via the collector ring.

Abstract: A balance system (1), for hand-held cameras (9), comprises a balance arm (2) and a handle (3). The balance arm (2) may be connected to a camera retaining mechanism (10) and may be swivelled, relative to the handle (3), about a swivelling axis (S) and tilted about a tilting axis (N), running essentially perpendicular to the swivelling axis (S). The balance arm (2) may furthermore be rotated about a roll axis (R) relative to the handle (3), which also runs essentially perpendicular to the swivelling axis (S) in the case of a non-tilted camera (9). The balance arm (2) may thus be rotated in an unrestricted manner about the roll axis (R) relative to the handle (3).

Abstract: An automated system for compensating the pan and tilt of a camera head for the movements of a camera support structure and/or a subject matter. A processing system receives signals relating to the movement of the camera support structure, such as the swing, boom and telescope of the crane arm, the movements of a dolly, and preferably the movements of a subject matter. The system employs these inputs to determine the position of the camera and subject matter in a defined world coordinate system and sends signals to compensate the pan and tilt of the camera head so that the field of view of the camera is generally centered on the subject matter being filmed as defined within the system.

Abstract: A slip ring assembly for use in a rotational camera. The camera has a rotating plate portion and a stationary base. The assembly comprises a housing, the housing having a body with a longitudinal axis, a top end and a bottom end. The top end of the housing includes an inner cylinder protruding therethrough, and upon the cylinder, a plurality of connectors rotationally coupled to the rotating portion of the camera. The second end of the housing is affixed to the stationary portion of the camera. The top end and the bottom end of the housing rotate with respect each other. The slip ring assembly acts as a connector, joining the rotational and the stationary portions of the rotational camera. The present invention minimizes component wear in the camera's stationary base since the end of the assembly in the stationary portion and all of the wires and electrical components coupled to it remain stationary during rotation of 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. The positioning system includes a beam module that provides lightweight yet flexurally rigid support for a distal camera, by including use of parallel longerons displaced from a neutral axis of the beam system.

Abstract: An arm rest and support for aiming. The arm rest and support consists of an upper member hingedly attached to a lower member. A pair of straps attached to the lower member wrap around the torso of the user for support. A third strap attached to the upper member is adapted to wrap around the aiming arm of the user. When not in use, the arm rest and support may be folded, allowing the user to move about. When the support is needed, the user simply raises his or her arm, causing the upper member to pivot and lock at an approximate right angle in relation to the lower member, providing the user with support for aiming resulting in greater accuracy and reduced fatigue.

Abstract: A camera crane having a carriage, a crane post which is arranged above the carriage, and a boom which is attached in such a manner that the boom can be tilted about a crane pivot axis, with sections of the boom extending on either side of the crane pivot axis. At an end of one section of the boom, a camera can be attached, and on the other section, a moment compensating counterweight can be attached. The section of the boom which carries the counterweight has a smaller length than the length of the crane post between carriage and crane pivot axis, and the boom has a pivot range about the crane pivot axis of more than 180°.

Abstract: A stabilizing platform for attachment to the bottom of the camcorder to steady the filming of subjects with the use of fiber optics positioned along the body of the camcorder to transmit remote control infrared signals to an 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 camcorder to the top of the platform and also attaches a handle below the platform. The handle has a locking pin to prevent the handle from rotating with respect to 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 fiber optics thus giving the user instant control of the signal, and improve the quality of the picture. The fiber optic fibers can be attached along a surface of the platform or along the surface of the camcorder by tape or an adhesive.

Abstract: A camera supporting chassis has attached clamp wheel assemblies. The clamp wheel assemblies secure opposing supports, and a camera is attached to the chassis. The chassis carries a brake capable of securing the chassis in place. The clamp wheel assemblies not only secure the chassis to the supports but also permit rollered movement of the chassis along the supports, allowing panning camera shots with the camera attached to the chassis.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing motion pictures using real time composites of computer generated virtual backgrounds and live foreground images recorded on a sound stage includes camera motion tracking, automated lighting control, on-line editing, and production and asset management to accelerate the pace and reduce the cost of motion picture production.

Abstract: A universal adaptor that may be used to hold any of a number of different surveillance cameras for deployment in any of a number of different camera housings or enclosures. The adaptor is in the form of a bi-sectional open-ended generally rectangular assembly designed to snap together around a camera and its associated PC boards encapsulating them into a single unit. The assembly includes a plurality of internal slots for holding up to several PC boards associated with the camera, and optional frontal tabs for heating/defrost elements. The camera lens extends through a wide opening at one end of the adaptor. Ventilation, access and attachment openings are provided on the adaptor allowing access to the interior for adjusting PC board switches, running wires and attaching the unit inside a larger mounting enclosure.

Abstract: A surveillance system is provided including a platform having a plurality and variety of cameras or sensors mounted thereto, and a base enclosure adapted to accommodate a power supply, a variety of electronics and other equipment for controlling and providing power to the surveillance equipment. The base is constructed to be tamper resistant and immovable by manual means. A substantially hollow support pole includes a lower portion detachably mounted to the base, and an upper portion mounted to the platform. Wires and cables for connecting the surveillance equipment with the electronics and power supply are run through the support pole. Power to the system may be supplied through existing power sources, for example a 120V power source.

Abstract: A surveillance system is provided including a platform having a plurality and variety of cameras or sensors mounted thereto, and a base enclosure adapted to accommodate a power supply, a variety of electronics and other equipment for controlling and providing power to the surveillance equipment. The base is constructed to be tamper resistant and immovable by manual means. A substantially hollow support pole includes a lower portion detachably mounted to the base, and an upper portion mounted to the platform. Wires and cables for connecting the surveillance equipment with the electronics and power supply are run through the support pole. Power to the system may be supplied through existing power sources, for example a 120V power source. A current breaker secured in an environmentally protected housing on the exterior of the surveillance system connected to the power supply and the electronics and surveillance equipment.

Abstract: A crane for lifting, moving, and positioning a camera or other object. The Omni-Boom crane configuration allows much more unrestricted movement than a conventional single boom design, using one vertical axis for azimuth pivoting movement, and one horizontal axis for elevation movement. The Omni-Boom has two additional upright axes perpendicular to the main boom, one for a distal camera boom, and one for a proximal counterweight boom, allowing more horizontal freedom while maintaining the balance of the crane. Throughout this increased range of motion, the support of the camera remains level. The support can also maintain a constant camera aim azimuth rotational relationship with the base of the crane. The camera's aim azimuth relative to the fixed base remains constant during boom movement. With this constant aim azimuth, combined with greater freedom of horizontal motion, this crane offers unique possibilities for camera movement and control.

Abstract: This device for taking spherical pictures of a scene comprising a support (1, 2) provided with securement means (3) for a picture taking apparatus.

Abstract: A device for rotating a body about two axes that includes a collector ring coupled to both a rotatable body and an axial movement drive mechanism for transmitting axial movements, so that rotary movements of the rotatable body about two axes are caused via axial movements of the collector ring, wherein a stator of the collector ring is seated, fixed against relative rotation, on a support body, and a rotor of the collector ring is connected with the rotatable body. At least one electrical unit, which is fixed against relative rotation with respect to the support body and is in electrical contact with the rotatable body via the collector ring.

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: The invention relates to a module for adjustment of movement intensity, particularly for a support head for television or motion-picture cameras, comprising a first outer disc-shaped element block (1) and a second inner disc-shaped element block (2), said second block (2) being centrally placed within a seat provided in said first block (1), and being movable with respect to said first block (1), in such a way to offset the respective axis, the disc-shaped elements of the first outer block (1) interposing between the disc-shaped elements of the second block (2) during the respective movement of the two blocks, said first and second blocks being placed inside a waterproof housing, and within said waterproof housing a fluid being provided.

Abstract: A shoulder platform that is well-balanced and stable on an operator's shoulder when the camera is mounted on the platform, allowing hands-free balance of the mounted camera. The shoulder platform has an elongated bent frame, a shoulder mount affixed below the frame, a compartment front mounted on the frame above the shoulder mount, two sides mounted above and along the sides of the frame, shelves, storage compartments for camera components and accessories, a latch mechanism, an elongated compartment attached to the lowest shelf that can be latched to the latch mechanism, and means so that the supported camera mounted on the camera mount piece may be placed in different positions for photographing subject matter while keeping the shoulder platform stationary on the operator's shoulder.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing motion pictures using real time composites of computer generated virtual backgrounds and live foreground images recorded on a sound stage includes camera motion tracking, automated lighting control, on-line editing, and production and asset management to accelerate the pace and reduce the cost of motion picture production.

Abstract: A portable image projector is provided with a vertically elongated tower configuration to substantially reduce its vertical footprint when it is placed on a horizontal support surface for use. A stabilizing foot is positioned below the housing portion of the projector and is horizontally pivotable between a retracted orientation in which the foot is disposed within the vertical footprint of the projector housing, and an extended orientation in which the foot projects outwardly beyond opposite sides of the projector housing. The stabilizing foot is pivotally secured to the bottom ends of a spaced pair of arcuate elevating leg members that extend upwardly through openings in the bottom side of the housing. The leg members are vertically movable through the housing openings between retracted and extended positions and are resiliently biased in a downward direction relative to the housing.

Abstract: A two degree of freedom camera mount. The camera mount includes a socket, a ball, a first linkage and a second linkage. The socket includes an interior surface and an opening. The ball is positioned within an interior of the socket. The ball includes a coupling point for rotating the ball relative to the socket and an aperture for mounting a camera. The first and second linkages are rotatably connected to the socket and slidably connected to the coupling point of the ball. Rotation of the linkages with respect to the socket causes the ball to rotate with respect to the socket.

Abstract: A surveillance system is provided including a platform having a plurality and variety of cameras or sensors mounted thereto, and a base enclosure adapted to accommodate a power supply, a variety of electronics and other equipment for controlling and providing power to the surveillance equipment. The base is constructed to be tamper resistant and immovable by manual means. A substantially hollow support pole includes a lower portion detachably mounted to the base, and an upper portion mounted to the platform. Wires and cables for connecting the surveillance equipment with the electronics and power supply are run through the support pole. Power to the system may be supplied through existing power sources, for example a 120V power source. The system may further be adapted to be trailer mountable for facilitating transport of the system. A trailer assembly specifically adapted for transporting the system may be provided.

Abstract: A camera crane has a boom arm pivotably connected to a post assembly. The boom arm is extendible via an extension accessory kit. A track section is pivotably attached to the front end of the boom arm, and is leveled via leveling rods. The boom arm has a joggled section to provide clearance for a camera operator. A camera frame carrying a camera is linearly moveable along the track section. Pivot joints provide for adjustable drag on pivoting movement, without backlash or slip/stick movement. The track section is provided with a track frame and a slide head, so that the track section can be used apart from the crane.

Abstract: A mounting system for body mounted camera equipment includes a tube supported on a three-axis gimbal and having connector assemblies at each end for mounting the equipment. Each connector assembly is made up of two connectors which axially engage. One of the connectors includes grooves in the cylindrical sidewall to include radially extending pins in the other connector. The grooves each include an axial entry portion, a circumferential portion and an axial seating portion. The connectors further include an angular interlock with three pins and six sockets with the pins and sockets including mating conical surfaces. The axial pins and sockets, the grooves and the radial pins are all configured to define a locking system having an entry requiring separate axial and rotational motions of the connectors before the pins and sockets can be engaged.

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 camera crane having a carriage, a crane post which is arranged above the carriage, and a boom which is attached in such a manner that the boom can be tilted about a crane pivot axis, with sections of the boom extending on either side of the crane pivot axis. At an end of one section of the boom, a camera can be attached, and on the other section, a moment compensating counterweight can be attached. The section of the boom which carries the counterweight has a smaller length than the length of the crane post between carriage and crane pivot axis, and the boom has a pivot range about the crane pivot axis of more than 180°.

Abstract: A system comprises: (a) an imaging system having an imaging device for transmitting an electrical signal corresponding to an area being imaged, and magnification functionality adapted to magnify the imaged area; (b) a portable support system for supporting the imaging system having a power supply for supplying power to the imaging system, at least one controller for controlling the zooming functionality of the imaging device, and an image output device; and (c) a positioning system for positioning the imaging system independently of the support system; and a method of using the same which comprising: (a) positioning the imaging system independently of the support system such that a target area is in the field of view of said imaging system while at a first magnification level; (b) imaging the area at a second magnification level greater than the first magnification level; and (c) outputting an image of the area.

Abstract: The invention includes a self-propelled camera dolly having a camera support unit, a drive unit, and a flexible coupling placed between the camera support unit and the drive unit. The camera support unit includes wheels and a camera. The drive unit can move in at least one of a horizontal direction and a vertical direction. The flexible coupling may include three pivots, where two of these pivots may be orientated in the vertical direction and the other in the horizontal direction to aid the movement of the drive unit.