Having Stabilizing (e.g., Gyroscope, Etc.) Patents (Class 396/13)
  • Patent number: 11445114
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an imaging device, a solid-state imaging element, a camera module, a drive control unit, and an imaging method for enabling reliable correction of an influence of a motion on an image. A state determination unit determines a state of a motion of an imaging unit that performs imaging to acquire an image via an optical system that collects light, and an exposure control unit performs at least control for an exposure time of the imaging unit according to a determination result by the state determination unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Assignee: SONY SEMICONDUCTOR SOLUTIONS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Soichi Kuwahara
  • Patent number: 11254444
    Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention provides a gimbal, a photographing apparatus having same, and an unmanned aerial vehicle. The gimbal includes at least two drive assemblies connected successively; a carrying housing configured to mount the photographing apparatus; one drive assembly of the at least two drive assemblies being mounted within the carrying housing, and the at least two drive assemblies being capable of driving the carrying housing to rotate toward at least two directions, so as to adjust an angle of the photographing apparatus from the at least two directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2022
    Assignee: AUTEL ROBOTICS CO., LTD
    Inventor: Chun Yu
  • Patent number: 10893195
    Abstract: A camera system includes a base including a processing circuit and a communications circuit, a plurality of imagers, and a plurality of connections. The processing circuit is positioned in the base. The plurality of imagers are coupled to the processing circuit via the communications circuit, each imager including a lens and a sensor module that receives light via the lens and outputs a plurality of images based on the received light. The plurality of connections couple each imager to the processing circuit via the communications circuit. Each imager is mounted to an outside surface of the base or spaced from the base, each connection including at least one of a wired connection and a wireless connection. The processing circuit receives the plurality of images from each imager via each respective connection and generates a combined image using the plurality of images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Assignee: Sensormatic Electronics, LLC
    Inventors: Patrick Siu, Steven Schieltz
  • Patent number: 9357111
    Abstract: Casings and housings for use in high speed airflow (for example for mounting on a high speed vehicle) are described. In one embodiment, a housing for imaging equipment is described. The housing has a tapering form with symmetrical angular truncations such that it tapers in the form of a wedge with two substantially planar regions. At least one substantially planar region includes an aperture formed of optically transparent material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: QINETIQ LIMITED
    Inventors: Daniel John White, Clive Charles Woolley, Jim Maurice Abbey, David Simpson, Christopher Mark Driscoll
  • Patent number: 9332184
    Abstract: The image-shake correction apparatus 1 of the invention comprises a base part 10 including a permanent magnet 20 and a moving part 30 having a coil 40 located in a position opposite to the permanent magnet 20, wherein the permanent magnet 20 and coil 40 form together a voice coil motor 70, and the permanent magnet 20 includes cutouts 101, 102 and 103.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takashi Okamura, Akihiro Kubota
  • Patent number: 9170106
    Abstract: A shock-resistant device includes snubbers that may be selectively extended to selectively create a stiff attachment between a vibration-isolated component of the device, and another part of the device. The snubbers may be electromechanical or hydraulically driven. The device may be a sensor system for an unmanned aerial vehicle, with the snubbers extendible to create a stiff attachment between an inner gimbal and an outer shell of the sensor system, for example prior to landing the unmanned aerial vehicle on an aircraft carrier, or prior to transportation or storage of the unmanned aerial vehicle. The snubbers may be able to be manually actuated, even when the unmanned aerial vehicle has no power available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Assignee: Raytheon Corporation
    Inventor: Kirk A. Miller
  • Patent number: 9129495
    Abstract: A side camera of a vehicle, including a camera housing rotatable in a first axis and a second axis each relative to an exterior surface of the vehicle, and a camera attached to the camera housing that captures image data. The camera is positioned in a plurality of positions by rotating the camera housing along the first axis and the second axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: AISIN TECHNICAL CENTER OF AMERICA, INC.
    Inventors: Patrick Stewart, Eric Archambeau, Katsuhiko Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 9025040
    Abstract: A rifle scope includes an image sensor configured to capture visual data corresponding to a view area, a display, and a controller coupled to the display and the image sensor. The controller is configured to apply a first stabilization parameter to at least a portion of the visual data to produce a stabilized view, to provide the stabilized view and a reticle to the display, and to apply a second stabilization parameter to stabilize the reticle relative to the stabilized view in response to motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: TrackingPoint, Inc.
    Inventors: Dane Andrew Thyssen, John Hancock Lupher
  • Patent number: 8938160
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and related methods for stabilizing a payload device such an imaging device. The methods and apparatus provide fast response time for posture adjustment of the payload device while reducing the energy used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: SZ DJI Technology Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Tao Wang
  • Patent number: 8837927
    Abstract: The invention relates to a suspension system designed for use with optical devices, such as video cameras. The camera suspension unit includes a platform, outer and middle frames, with the orthogonal intersecting axes of rotation at the midpoint of the unit, rotating drives to rotate the unit about the X, Y and Z axes all controlled by a control unit. The middle frame of the suspension unit is designed as a mechanical parallelogram, having a movable jointed foot, a piston-rod and two cranks, as well as two mechanical links, all of which have an axis of rotation parallel to the middle frame axis of rotation, which is parallel to the Y axis. The outer end of each mechanical link is fastened to a crank while the inner end is fastened to the frame. The inner ends are fastened in a rotatable manner, allowing for the rotation about an axis parallel to the axes of rotation of the cranks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Inventors: Lev Nikolaevich Yevstratov, Vladimir Vladimirovich Kozlov
  • Patent number: 8798450
    Abstract: A gimbal system. The gimbal system may include space-saving features configured to accommodate one or more payload components, thus increasing the payload capacity of the gimbal ball without necessarily increasing the outer dimensions of the gimbal ball. Alternatively, or in addition, the gimbal system may include a motor configured to move at least one gimbal relative to another gimbal about a first axis, with the motor peripherally mounted distal the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: FLIR Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Aicher, Gregory D. Dent, Bruce Ellison, James H. Weaver, John M. Wiltse
  • Patent number: 8559801
    Abstract: A water resistant and electromagnetically shielded turret assembly, suitable for attachment to the undersurface of an unmanned surveillance aircraft. The turret, in its several variations, may contain one or more cameras, and may contain an internal positioning motor, which can be easily accessible for servicing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Aerovironment, Inc.
    Inventor: Manolis Pavlos Dimotakis
  • Patent number: 8559802
    Abstract: A system and method for isolating the motion of a camera relative to a base structure is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system may generally include a plurality of bearing pucks coupled to the base structure. Each of the bearing pucks may be configured to receive and expel a pressurized fluid. In addition, the system may include a camera support coupled to the camera. The camera support may include at least one bearing member defining a spherical surface. The bearing member may be positioned adjacent to the bearing pucks such that the pressurized fluid forms a fluid layer between the spherical surface and the bearing pucks. The fluid layer may suspend the bearing member relative to the bearing pucks such that the camera support is rotationally isolated from the base structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Iain Richard Tyrone McClatchie, Ian Rickard Muldoon
  • Patent number: 8434950
    Abstract: An aerial photography mount that features a three-axis gimbal unit that is supported between two posts by elastic straps. Each of the axes rotates within precision bearings that enable smooth operation of a camera secured to the mount. The elastic straps, in conjunction with independently rotating bearings at the end suspension assemblies, provide a enhanced vibration isolation effect. The mount can be further stabilized by the attachment of gyroscopic stabilizers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventor: Christopher Wawro
  • Publication number: 20130105619
    Abstract: Camera mount systems are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a camera mount system is provided, including a first and a second axial arm configured to mount a camera system. The camera mount system further includes a plurality of pistons configured to attach the first and the second axial arms to a vehicle frame. The camera mount system also includes a plurality of springs configured to attach the first and the second axial arms to the vehicle frame, wherein the first and the second axial arms are disposed underslung to the vehicle frame, and wherein the pistons enable a first movement of the first and the second axial arms about a geometric plane and the springs enable a second movement of the first and the second axial arms along an axis normal to the geometric plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: VANGUARD DEFENSE INTERNATIONAL, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Sean Buscher, Henry E. Kulesza
  • Patent number: 8346070
    Abstract: A device for supporting a camera to facilitate capturing stable images from a moving and vibrating platform, such as a helicopter includes a base plate and a vertical post attached to the base plate and extending upwardly from the base plate. A swing arm is fixed to the top of the vertical post in a manner that allows the swing arm to pivot around a vertical axis of the vertical post. A handle is attached to the swing arm and extends upwardly from the swing arm Suspended from the handle below the swing arm is a fixture for supporting the camera. The fixture supporting the camera includes that reduce the transmission of vibrations and shocks to the camera. The device for supporting a camera can be secured in place inside a helicopter without altering the structural integrity of the helicopter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventor: Ronald L. Beasley
  • Patent number: 8194142
    Abstract: A photographic apparatus comprises a movable platform and a controller. The movable platform has an imager that captures an optical image through a taking lens, and is movable and rotatable on an xy plane. The controller calculates an inclination angle of the photographic apparatus, and performs a controlled movement of the movable platform for an inclination correction by rotating the movable platform from an initial state on said xy plane in accordance to a rotation quantity of the movable platform. The controller performs the controlled movement to offset the inclination angle by the rotation quantity, when the photographic apparatus is in a first inclination state. The controller performs the controlled movement to maintain an inclined state where the movable platform is rotated from the initial state in accordance to either the first angle or the negative of the first angle, when the photographic apparatus is in a second inclination state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Pentax Ricoh Imaging Company, Ltd.
    Inventor: Yukio Uenaka
  • Patent number: 8184144
    Abstract: The present invention calibrates interior orientation parameters (IOP) and exterior orientation parameters (EOP). With the calibrated IOPs and EOPs, a remotely controlled camera can quickly obtains corresponding IOPs and EOPs no matter on panning, tilting or zooming. Thus, the remotely controlled camera obtains accuracies on imaging and measuring and obtains wide applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: National Central University
    Inventors: Chi-Farn Chen, Li-Yu Chang, Su-Rung Yang
  • Patent number: 8111293
    Abstract: A photographic apparatus comprises a movable platform and a controller. The movable platform has an imager and is movable and rotatable on an xy plane perpendicular. The controller calculates an inclination angle of the photographic apparatus, and performs a controlled movement of the movable platform for an inclination correction based on the inclination angle. The controller calculates a first position of the movable platform before the inclination correction. The controller calculates a second position of the movable platform after the inclination correction. The controller determines whether the movable platform should be moved to a third position before moving from the first position to the second position in the inclination correction, on the basis of a positional relationship between the first position and the second position. The third position is a position of the movable platform in an imaging operation by the imager without the inclination correction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Pentax Ricoh Imaging Company, Ltd.
    Inventor: Yukio Uenaka
  • Patent number: 8111294
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of stabilizing the images of a scene, acquired by means of an observation device of an imaging system, comprising the step of digital processing of a stream of successive images. It comprises a step of acquiring gyrometric measurements by means of at least one gyrometric sensor secured to the observation device, of using these gyrometric measurements to determine so-called approximate shifts undergone between successive images, and the image processing step comprising a sub-step of using the approximate shifts and the image stream acquired to determine so-called fine shifts undergone between successive images.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Thales
    Inventors: Stephane Bourgain, Bruno Bustin, Jerome Fournier, Etienne Payot, Christophe Rannou, Jacques Rioland
  • Patent number: 8089519
    Abstract: A photographic apparatus comprises a movable platform and a controller. The movable platform has an imager that captures an optical image through a taking lens, and is movable and rotatable on an xy plane. The controller calculates an inclination angle of the photographic apparatus, which is formed by rotation of the photographic apparatus around the optical axis, and performs a controlled movement of the movable platform for an inclination correction by rotating the movable platform from an initial state on the xy plane in accordance to a rotation quantity of the movable platform. The controller performs the controlled movement so as to compensate the rotation quantity under the condition in which the absolute value of the rotation quantity decreases in accordance to an increasing absolute value of the inclination angle, when the inclination angle is larger than a second angle but less than a third angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: PENTAX Ricoh Imaging Company, Ltd.
    Inventor: Yukio Uenaka
  • Patent number: 8077212
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Chapman/Leonard Studio Equipment
    Inventor: Leonard T. Chapman
  • Patent number: 7905463
    Abstract: A multi-axis gimbal has each axis defined by a respective spherical shell driven by a flat, compact motor attached to the driven shell and to a next outer shell (or to an external mounting platform, in the case of the outermost shell). The shells rotate about respective axes. In one configuration, the outermost shell is referred to as the “azimuth” shell because in use it rotates about a vertical axis. The next inner shell is an elevation shell that rotates about a first horizontal axis that is orthogonal to the axis of the camera or other sensor payload. An optional third shell can be used to provide “roll” motion, such as rotating a camera about its axis to obtain a particular rotational orientation with respect to a target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Optical Alchemy, Inc.
    Inventors: Heidi Burnham, Marc Daigle
  • Publication number: 20100040354
    Abstract: A method and device for collecting aerial images and data. There is: an aircraft device, configured to fly through the air, including: a retractable mounting member, configured to extend and retract; and a pan tilt mounting member, configured to pan in a horizontal axis and tilt in a vertical axis, coupled to the retractable mounting member opposite the aircraft device. There is also: a data collecting device housing, coupled to the pan tilt mounting member opposite the retractable mounting member, configured to house a data collecting device; and a data collecting device, configured to collect images and data, disposed within the data collecting device housing. The data collecting device includes a remote control system in wireless communication with the data collecting device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2009
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventor: Norman Becerra
  • Patent number: 7561784
    Abstract: A gimbal system. The gimbal system may include space-saving features configured to accommodate one or more payload components, thus increasing the payload capacity of the gimbal ball without necessarily increasing the outer dimensions of the gimbal ball. Alternatively, or in addition, the gimbal system may include a motor configured to move at least one gimbal relative to another gimbal about a first axis, with the motor peripherally mounted distal the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: FLIR Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy A. Wescott, Gregory D. Dent, James H. Weaver
  • Patent number: 7511736
    Abstract: A navigation system utilizing augmented reality is provided which utilizes captured images to generate orientation information, wherein the pitch, yaw and roll are periodically derived from an inexpensive sensor, and in-between the periodical update, the pitch, roll, and yaw information are derived by capturing and image of the observed scene, identifying reference image components (RIC's) in a images and comparing those RIC's with subsequently captured images, to derive orientation information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Inventor: Charles Benton
  • Publication number: 20080158371
    Abstract: Dual loop stabilization of video images is disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a video camera having a first image stability control component configured to stabilize a video image in a first motion environment. A second image stability control component is coupled between the video camera and a moveable platform and is configured to stabilize the video image in a second motion environment. A motion sensing device detects movement of the video camera and transmits a control signal to adjust a stabilization response of the second image stability control component according to the movement. In some embodiments, a first amplitude range of the first motion environment is at least partially lower than a second amplitude range of the second motion environment, and a first frequency range of the first motion environment is at least partially higher than a second frequency range of the second motion environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Patrick J. Trescott
  • Patent number: 7364128
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for a support mechanism are provided. The support mechanism includes an engagement pin including an engagement surface and a latch surface wherein the engagement pin is coupled to a base. The support mechanism also includes a pawl that includes an engagement surface complementary to the pin engagement surface and a latch surface complementary to the pin latch surface wherein the pawl is biased toward engagement of the pawl latch surface with the pin latch surface. The support mechanism also includes a ring latch that includes an annular ring having a toothed edge, the ring latch is coupled to the pawl such that the pawl extends axially away from the ring latch in a direction opposite the toothed edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: GE Security, Inc.
    Inventors: Brad Donaldson, Arnold Top
  • Patent number: 7315015
    Abstract: An image detecting module. The image detecting module comprises a base, a seat movably disposed on the base, an image detecting unit disposed on the seat, a first guide member by which the seat is joined to the base, moving relative to the base in a first direction, a first coil disposed on either the base or the seat, a first magnet disposed on either the base or the seat and opposite to the first coil, and a first Hall element disposed on either the base or the seat and adjacent to the first coil. A magnetic force is generated between the first coil and the first magnet by providing a voltage to the first coil, thereby moving the seat in the first direction along the first guide element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Asia Optical Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Wen-Hung Hsieh, Jian-Chao Liao, Ching-Jung Tsai
  • Patent number: 7268336
    Abstract: An image detecting module. The image detecting module comprises a base, a seat movably disposed on the base, an image detecting unit disposed on the seat, a first guide member by which the seat is joined to the base, moving relative to the base in a first direction, a first coil disposed on either the base or the seat, a first magnet disposed on either the base or the seat and opposite to the first coil, and a first Hall element disposed on either the base or the seat and adjacent to the first coil. A magnetic force is generated between the first coil and the first magnet by providing a voltage to the first coil, thereby moving the seat in the first direction along the first guide element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Asia Optical Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Wen-Hung Hsieh, Jian-Chao Liao, Ching-Jung Tsai
  • Patent number: 7264220
    Abstract: A gimbal system. The gimbal system may include space-saving features configured to accommodate one or more payload components, thus increasing the payload capacity of the gimbal ball without necessarily increasing the outer dimensions of the gimbal ball. Alternatively, or in addition, the gimbal system may include a motor configured to move at least one gimbal relative to another gimbal about a first axis, with the motor peripherally mounted distal the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: FLIR Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory D. Dent, James H. Weaver, John M. Wiltse, Bruce Ellison
  • Patent number: 7190097
    Abstract: An apparatus for the control and alignment of a sensor on a moving vehicle is provided that includes a gimbal ball supported by an outer axis structure and adapted to pivot about an outer elevation axis and about an outer azimuth axis. The outer axis structure is mounted to a vehicle. An inner axis structure includes a cardan shaft that is provided in the ball and is used to support a payload. An inner elevation axis passes through the cardan shaft. The payload is moved about inner pitch inner roll and inner yaw axes over a limited range of motion by the use of a plurality of permanent magnet wide-gap motors that are disposed on the plane of the cardan shaft and maximally away from the yaw axis in the ball. The motors are adapted to each urge the payload to move in two perpendicular axes, depending upon the current that is applied through conductors which pass through a flux field. Control circuitry is used to energize the motors in any desired combination to produce motion in roll, pitch, or yaw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Inventors: Che Ram Souza Voigt, Allan Alfred Voigt, John Mark Speicher, Chet Alister Johnston
  • Patent number: 7133067
    Abstract: The invention relates to a high-precision digital image stabilization of an image recording with a CCD sensor utilized in a moving or flying carrier. For the digital image stabilization, the movements of the carrier are detected with the aid of an inertial sensor and stored. Then, a correction of the image data is carried out based on the detected movements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Carl Zeiss Optronics GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Claus, Karl-Heinz Esswein
  • Patent number: 7071970
    Abstract: An orientation sensor utilizing an inexpensive but relatively slow base orientation sensor, augmented by capture of a video images, identifying reference objects or regions therein, and calculating displacement of those objects to derive supplementary orientation information. Recurrent base orientation sensor results are used to correct drift of the video based technique. Augmenting the slow but accurate base orientation sensor with the consecutive images derived orientation data, provides a fast and inexpensive orientation sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Inventor: Charles Benton
  • Patent number: 7068927
    Abstract: A generally C-shaped frame portion having upper and lower generally horizontal arms and a generally vertically positioned connecting member partially surrounds a camera receiving space. A plate pivotally mounted to the lower arm provides a mounting point for a camera and a plurality of gyroscopic stabilizers. One or more elastic cords rotatably attached to the upper arm permit the frame to be suspend from a suspension point in or on a moving and/or vibrating platform for swinging movement in any direction and rotation relative to the platform and provide vibration isolation from the platform. A collapsible stand having a heavy base, an upright and a cantilever arm may be used to provide the suspension point if one is not conveniently available in or on the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Arnold Itzkowitz
  • Patent number: 6999005
    Abstract: In an image compensation apparatus for controlling an attitude of an image pickup section capable of rotating around mutually orthogonal three axes, the apparatus comprises a sight line direction information detection section for detecting information about a sight line direction of a pilot, a driving section which outputs a driving signal for rotating and driving the image pickup section with reference to the information about the sight line direction and rotates and drives the image pickup section based on this driving signal, an image pickup attitude information detection section for detecting information about an attitude of the image pickup section, an aircraft attitude information detection section for detecting information about an attitude of an aircraft, and a correction section for correcting the driving signal with reference to the information about the attitude of the image pickup section and the information about the attitude of the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hiroshi Okada, Shuichi Yokokura
  • Patent number: 6965397
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for using camera attitude sensors with a camera. A camera assembly includes a tripod base, a tripod head interface mounted on the tripod base, a tripod head mounted on the tripod head interface and a camera mounted on the tripod head. The tripod head enables the camera to pan and tilt. The system also includes a first optical encoder for detecting the amount that the camera has been panned and a second optical encoder for detecting the amount that the camera has been tilted. Two inclinometers are mounted on the tripod head interface to measure attitude of the tripod head. Two gyroscopes (“gyros”) are mounted on the camera assembly. Data from the encoders, gyros and inclinometers are packaged and sent to graphics production equipment to be used for enhancing video captured by the camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Sportvision, Inc.
    Inventors: Stanley K. Honey, Richard H. Cavallaro, Marvin S. White, Terence J. O'Brien, Matthew T. Lazar, Stuart K. Neubarth, Alan C. Phillips, Kenneth A. Milnes
  • Patent number: 6849980
    Abstract: An apparatus for the control and alignment of a sensor on a moving vehicle is provided that includes a gimbal ball supported by an outer axis structure and adapted to pivot about an outer elevation axis and about an outer azimuth axis. The outer axis structure is mounted to a vehicle. An inner axis structure includes a cardan shaft that is provided in the ball and is used to support a payload. An inner elevation axis passes through the cardan shaft. The payload is moved about inner pitch inner roll and inner yaw axes over a limited range of motion by the use of a plurality of permanent magnet wide-gap motors that are disposed on the plane of the cardan shaft and maximally away from the yaw axis in the ball. The motors are adapted to each urge the payload to move in two perpendicular axes, depending upon the current that is applied through conductors which pass through a flux field. Control circuitry is used to energize the motors in any desired combination to produce motion in roll, pitch, or yaw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Inventors: Che Ram Souza Voigt, Allan Alfred Voigt, John Mark Speicher, Chet Alister Johnston
  • Patent number: 6798984
    Abstract: The present invention provides a camera device for mounting on board a spacecraft, the camera device having at least one observation sensor and displacement means (4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) for controlled displacement of said device relative to the spacecraft with at least one degree of freedom, the device being characterized in that said displacement means comprise at least one transducer of an active material suitable for deforming dynamically under the effect of a variable electric and/or magnetic field, together with driver means suitable for controlling the transducer so as to displace the observation sensor in compliance with a variable control relationship adapted to compensating movements induced by the flight dynamics of the satellite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Antikidis
  • Publication number: 20040101294
    Abstract: The present invention provides a camera device for mounting on board a spacecraft, the camera device having at least one observation sensor and displacement means (4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) for controlled displacement of said device relative to the spacecraft with at least one degree of freedom, the device being characterized in that said displacement means comprise at least one transducer of an active material suitable for deforming dynamically under the effect of a variable electric and/or magnetic field, together with driver means suitable for controlling the transducer so as to displace the observation sensor in compliance with a variable control relationship adapted to compensating movements induced by the flight dynamics of the satellite.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Antikidis
  • Patent number: 6658207
    Abstract: An electro-optical roll-framing camera is described in which successive overlapping frames of scene imagery are generated by an electro-optical imaging array. Image motion compensation is performed electronically to stop or freeze image motion caused by the roll motion. The image motion compensation is performed by the array during the generation of the frames of imagery. The successive frames of imagery are made during a continuous roll motion of the entire camera (including the array). The image motion due to roll is stopped or frozen without mechanically stopping the roll motion, such as found in prior art step frame cameras. The roll framing cycles of the camera generate sweeping coverage of the terrain of interest. The roll rate for a given electro-optical array is a function of the frame size and the framing rate, and is controllable by a master camera control computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Recon/Optical, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew J. Partynski, Stephen R. Beran
  • Patent number: 6370329
    Abstract: A camera has camera optics and an optics support (3) which is rotatably journalled in a camera housing (5) and includes the camera optics. The camera optics include a first pivot mirror (7) at the input end and a second pivot mirror (11). The first pivot mirror (7) is pivotable about a first pivot axis (9) relative to the optics support (3). The optics support (3) is rotatable relative to the camera housing (5) about a rotational axis (9) parallel to a first pivot axis (9). Furthermore, the second pivot mirror (11) can be pivoted about a second pivot axis (13) running transversely relative to the first pivot axis (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Zeiss Optronik GmbH
    Inventor: Wolf-Dieter Teuchert
  • Patent number: 6263160
    Abstract: A stabilized platform system for isolating a payload from angular motions of a supporting structure has a base assembly securable to a supporting structure, and a payload stabilizing assembly carried by the base assembly and mounted for angular movement relative thereto about two or more separate axes. At least one of the axes is non-orthogonal with respect to another of the axes and mounted for limited angular movement relative to the base assembly, and the axes have extensions which meet at a common point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Wescam Inc.
    Inventor: Michael D. Lewis
  • Patent number: 6154317
    Abstract: A device for stabilizing of a remotely controlled sensor like a camera includes a gimbal system with an inner yaw gimbal carrying the sensor and an outer yaw gimbal and an inner pitch gimbal and outer pitch gimbal; and inner yaw and pitch gimbals are stabilized by a two-axes self-acting rategyro and outer yaw and pitch gimbals are stabilized by a system with set motors, electric rategyros and an electronic unit and a mechanical coupling with a resilient coupling connecting the inner yaw gimbal with the outer pitch gimbal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: Polytech AB
    Inventors: Torbjorn Segerstrom, Kjell Noren
  • Patent number: 6122102
    Abstract: A sighting apparatus is provided for aiming an optical device mounted on a moving platform and having both coarse and fine adjustment. The sighting apparatus includes a fixed base and an outer support ring that is capable of rotation by a drive motor about an azimuthal axis perpendicular to an axis defined by the outer support ring. A support hub is rotatably supported within the outer support ring and is capable of rotation by a drive motor about an elevational axis substantially coincident with the axis defined by the outer support ring. At least one mounting plate is supported by the support hub and the mounting plate is capable of movement about the azimuthal and elevational axes relative to the support hub, and the mounting plate is capable of movement about a roll axis perpendicular to the azimuthal and the elevational axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: McDonnell Douglas Corporation
    Inventors: James D. Gehris, Wesley A. King
  • Patent number: 5995758
    Abstract: Stabilization apparatus for aiming an instrument such as a camera at a target object. Rotational rate sensors mounted on the camera platform detect rotation of the platform from an initial position about roll, tilt and pan axes. The sensor output signals are applied to torque motors for rotating the platform back to its initial position. A hub assembly supports the camera platform for rotation about roll and tilt axes, and a yoke supports the hub assembly for rotation about a pan axis. The yoke is adapted for suspension from a support vehicle such as a helicopter, and it supports the platform for unimpaired rotation within windowed outer and inner domes. The outer dome is rotatable about a pan axis and the inner dome is rotatable about an inclined tilt axis. The arrangement reduces the size of the window opening from the camera to the exterior, which correspondingly reduces wind loads acting against the interior of the domes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventor: Nelson Tyler
  • Patent number: 5897223
    Abstract: A stabilized platform system for isolating a payload from angular motion and translational and angular vibration of a supporting structure, has an inner gimbal for carrying the payload, a sprung shell containing and carrying the inner gimbal in a manner permitting the inner gimbal a limited amount of angular movement relative thereto about pitch, roll and yaw axes, and an outer gimbal containing the sprung shell and inner gimbal. A passive vibration isolator is connected between the sprung shell and the outer gimbal and has two symmetrical arrays of dampened coil springs located on opposite sides of the sprung shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Assignee: Wescam Inc.
    Inventors: Steven Tritchew, Raigo Alas, Michael D. Lewis
  • Patent number: 5765044
    Abstract: An apparatus for photographing the ground continuously from an airplane, and for recording the photographed images in digital form in real time. A three-line sensor camera comprising a forward-oblique line sensor, a vertical line sensor and a backward-oblique line sensor is on board. The three-line sensor camera has a gyro integrally connected thereto. Data of the camera's attitude available from the gyro, digital data of the land images available from the camera and data of the airplane's position available from an airborne GPS are recorded and reproduced. The camera is controlled with the aid of the gyro so that its optical axis may be held in a vertical direction at all times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: Core Corp.
    Inventors: Shunji Murai, Yoshitaka Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 5710945
    Abstract: A camera mounting mechanism is attachable to a helicopter to support and isolate an exterior camera against vibrational forces generated by the helicopter during flight maneuvers.Individual shock absorbers are arranged in a ring pattern around a central axis of the mounting mechanism to absorb the vibrational forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1998
    Assignee: McMahon Helicopter Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard C. Thompson
  • Patent number: RE44984
    Abstract: An aerial photography mount that features a three-axis gimbal unit that is supported between two posts by elastic straps. Each of the axes rotates within precision bearings that enable smooth operation of a camera secured to the mount. The elastic straps, in conjunction with independently rotating bearings at the end suspension assemblies, provide a enhanced vibration isolation effect. The mount can be further stabilized by the attachment of gyroscopic stabilizers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Inventor: Christopher Wawro