Abstract: A tripod assembly having a base and a head mounted to the base. A plurality of legs are coupled to the base and are moveable between an open position and a closed position. The plurality of legs form a tripod to support the base and head in an upright position when the legs are in the open position. The plurality of legs at least partially enclose the base and the head when in the closed position.

Abstract: An image-taking apparatus capable of mounting an accessory, which is small-sized yet capable of securing a sufficient inner volume is disclosed. The image-taking apparatus includes a first member having a female screw hole portion into which a male screw portion provided in the accessory is inserted, a main chassis to which the first member is fixed and a second member which covers an opening of the female screw hole portion opposite to the insertion side of the male screw portion. The female screw hole portion is a hole portion penetrating the first member and the second member prevents the male screw portion from further going in by the tip of the male screw portion inserted into the female screw hole portion contacting the second member.

Abstract: A vehicle imaging system includes an imaging sensor having a field of view exterior of a vehicle, an image processor and a display. The imaging sensor generates a signal indicative of an image representative of a scene occurring within the field of view. The image processor receives the signal from the imaging sensor and processes the signal to detect at least one relevant object within the image. The display is operable to display at least one iconistic representation of the at least one detected relevant object in response to an output signal generated by the image processor. The display is positionable within the vehicle and is viewable by a driver or passenger or occupant of the vehicle. The imaging sensor may be mounted to a mounting bracket mounted at a license plate area of the vehicle.

Abstract: An image transformation apparatus for a vehicle rear monitoring device uses a transformation table to transform an image of the rear of a vehicle captured by a camera mounted on the vehicle for capturing the rear of the vehicle into an output image assumed to be obtained by capturing the rear at a predetermined inclination from a virtual camera position different from an actual camera position at which the camera is mounted, and displays the output image on the monitor 4. Furthermore, the output image may be displayed on the monitor 4, with a steering start guideline, a steering amount guide mark, a vehicle width guideline, and a vehicle path guideline superimposed thereon.

Abstract: An omni-positional camera mount for the photographing of small objects (24). The mount has a support (4) to hold an object to be photographed. A first frame (9) is pivotally mounted to the support such that the first frame can pivot on a first pivot axis (12). A second frame (15) is mounted to the first frame (9) such that the second frame can pivot on a second pivot axis (18) which is at right angles to and passing through the first pivot axis. A camera stage is on the second frame. The support (4) can include a turntable and a mounting post. The turntable (4) rotates on a axis which passes through the meeting point (20) of the first and second axes.

Abstract: This invention relates to an image pickup apparatus having a stable holding mechanism which can pivot through a predetermined amount to switch between two predetermined positions in using and repositing states, and enables stable phototaking operation. The image pickup apparatus has a grip member which assists the grip of the image pickup apparatus main body for the user and can pivot through a predetermined amount about a pivot support to switch between two predetermined positions in using and repositing states. The pivot support which pivotally supports the grip member is arranged at a corner of the side surface of the image pickup apparatus main body farthest from the phototaking optical system.

Abstract: A method for orienting a digital panoramic image obtained using at least one initial wide-angle image the image points of which are transferred into a three-dimensional coordinate system includes inserting an orientation mark into the initial image at the time of the exposure. The method further includes detecting the location of the orientation mark in the digital panoramic image, performed by an image analysis algorithm.

Abstract: An embodiment of the invention is an accessory to hold a photographic equipment. The accessory includes an attachment assembly and an object. The attachment assembly attaches to the photographic equipment. The object is coupled to the attachment assembly to allow a user to control movement of the photographic equipment.

Abstract: A lens barrel comprises a lens barrel body having a photographic optical system; a first mount unit that is fitted to the lens barrel body; and a second mount unit having a fixing unit for fixing the lens barrel body to a stand, that is detachably fitted to the first mount unit by being slid along a direction substantially parallel to an optical axis of the photographic optical system.

Abstract: A shoe mount assembly configured for use with a variety of cameras or camcorders. The shoe is attached to the bottom of the camera or camcorder unit. The shoe is detachable and is dimensioned to center fit a corresponding indent in the top surface of the mount. The shoe is configured with a locating pin and a threaded connector to be fitted on the base of a camera or camcorder. Once the locating pin locates the receiving recess in the bottom of the camcorder, the shoe is secured in place by the threaded connector. The shoe is loaded into the mount and locked in place by releasing a spring biased camlock for interaction with a cam surface on the shoe.

Abstract: A camera support (10) has a mounting member (13) to be attached to a camera (11), and a supporting member (14) for supporting the camera (11) through the mounting member (13). The supporting member (14) has a catching surface (22) in the shape of an arcuate surface and a fitting surface (24) in the shape of a cylindrical surface. The mounting member (13) has a catching surface (32) and one or more fitting surfaces (36). The catching surface (32) is adapted to removably catch the catching surface (22). Each fitting surface (36) is adapted to removably be fitted to the fitting surface (24). By engaging the catching surface (22) with the catching surface (32), the camera (11) is set in the horizontal position in such a state as to be capable of rotating vertically so that its vertical angle can be adjusted.

Abstract: Body mounted support apparatuses are provided. In an illustrative embodiment, a shoulder harness is coupled to a belly plate, with a hinge provided on the belly plate. The hinge may allow motion about at least a first axis. An elongate member, such as a monopod, is provided having a first end and a second end. The elongate member may have an adjustable length. The first end of the elongate member is attached to the hinge, while the second end of the elongate member is adapted to receive one of several devices. Certain of the devices which may be received are adapted for holding a camera, such as a tilt head or a gimbal head. In further embodiments, the hinge allows motion about a second axis and/or allows rotational movement about the axis of the elongate member.

Abstract: A camera steadying device for steadying a camera while taking a picture. The camera steadying device includes a body member being designed for being coupled to the camera being held by a user. A flexible extension member extends from the body member. The flexible extension member is designed for being stepped on by the user opposite the camera whereby the flexible extension member resists upward vertical movement of the camera for steadying the camera when the user is taking a picture.

Abstract: To provide a panhead in which operationality is excellent and an appropriate tilt fixing force can be obtained. A panhead comprises a pan rotation body which has a fixing notch portion and rotates in the left and right direction around a vertical axis. The panhead comprises a tilt rotation body which has a fixing notch portion and rotates in the up-and-down direction around a horizontal axis. The panhead comprises an attaching-object support body to which an attaching object can be attached and an operation body which is provided on the tilt rotation body so as to be capable of rotating operation. By a one-action rotating operation of the operation body, the tilt rotation body and the pan rotation body are respectively fixed. The front-end portion of the fixing notch portion of the pan rotation body is blocked by a blocking portion for deformation suppression.

Abstract: A camera support (10) has a mounting member (13) to be attached to a camera (11), and a supporting member (14) for supporting the camera (11) through the mounting member (13). The supporting member (14) has a catching surface (22) in the shape of an arcuate surface and a fitting surface (24) in the shape of a cylindrical surface. The mounting member (13) has a catching surface (32) and one or more fitting surfaces (36). The catching surface (32) is adapted to removably catch the catching surface (22). Each fitting surface (36) is adapted to removably be fitted to the fitting surface (24). By engaging the catching surface (22) with the catching surface (32), the camera (11) is set in the horizontal position in such a state as to be capable of rotating vertically so that its vertical angle can be adjusted.

Abstract: According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a camera rig suitable for handheld use comprising a frame and means to attach a camera inside of said frame. The present invention therefore provides a mobile support for a camera, such as a digital video camera by providing a larger grip than a small camera and hence it is easier to hold steady. Therefore the user may shoot film in a steady manner. It is thus an advantage of the present invention that camera shake is either prevented or substantially reduced.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable stand, in particular a portable stand for holding and supporting video cameras, photo cameras and other optical recording devices, comprising:

Abstract: A buoy incorporating a stabilized camera system can take the place of an aquatic event course marker or rounding buoy. The buoy with its camera system stabilized in either two or three orthogonal axis from the motion of the waves, allows audio and visual recording of events occurring directly adjacent to the buoy, without interfering with the event. Additionally, remote controls allow the stabilized camera to be controlled by a remotely located camera operator who directs the camera to follow event action as it passes or rounds the buoy.

Abstract: A panhead (11) has a rotational body (21), which can be adjustably rotated around a horizontal rotation center axis (X), and a camera mount (41) adapted to revolve, as an integral body with the rotational body (21), around the rotation center axis (X) of the rotational body (21). When the camera mount (41) is set at a first position by rotating the rotational body (21) in one direction, at least a part of the camera mount (41) is located higher than the upper end portion of the rotational body (21). When the camera mount (41) is set at a second position by rotating the rotational body (21) in the other direction, the entire camera mount (41) is located lower than the upper end portion of the rotational body (21).

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: An assembly for mounting and adjusting an instrument, the received or transmitted radiation of which must accurately hit its receptor or target, is provided. The assembly includes a base which is mounted to a wall or beam, a pedestal connected to the base and an instrument or instrument mount connected to the pedestal. The instrument may rotate with respect to the pedestal about a first axis defined by the longitudinal axis of the pedestal and about a second axis perpendicular to the first axis, and about a third axis perpendicular to the second axis. This enables the position of the instrument to be easily adjusted in order to enable the assembly to be used at various locations, and for different uses.

Abstract: A video camera support device with an improved device for stabilizing recorded images by eliminating camera movement. The camera support device comprises a hand held monopod having motion-absorbing elements. The motion absorbing elements provide counter balance and shock absorbing means incorporated within the handle. The support device further provides a panning aiming arm with a remote control affixed thereto for remote operation of the camera.

Abstract: For quick fixation of a connection plate (2) fastened to a device to a tripod head (1), the tripod head (1) has on the upper side a groove (3) into which the connection plate (2) is insertable with one side. Further, a clamping jaw (5) is provided that engages over the opposite side of the connection plate (2) in the closed position. The clamping jaw (5) is fastened so as to be tiltable about an axle (8) parallel to the connection plate plane to a slider (9) that is displaceable by pressure with the connection plate (2) against the force of a spring (11), it being locked by a bolt (14) loaded with springs (23) when the clamping jaw (5) tilted onto the connection plate (2) in the closed position.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a camera mounting tripod having a hub with three legs hinged at one end thereof to the hub at equi-spaced locations around the hub to swing between a folded condition in which the legs lie alongside one another and an erect position in which the legs diverge from one another. An automatic releasable latching device is provided on one of the legs to engage end housings on the other two legs to hold the legs in the folded position.

Abstract: A sterile, disposable camera system which is always sterilized for use and avoids the need to sterilize the camera or camera mounting system for re-usage includes a sterile camera unit which is easily, removably mounted on a sterile mounting apparatus which is constructed to be collapsible. The camera mounting system is disposable such that after the camera system has been used, the sterile camera unit is easily removed from the sterile mounting apparatus and the mounting apparatus can be discarded as waste. The mounting apparatus is arranged to support the sterile camera unit relative to a subject to be photographed such that the camera quickly obtains in-focus close-up photographs of subjects of interest. The system includes a mini-crowbar like tool for safe removal of the film cartridge after camera use.

Abstract: An omni-positional camera mount for the photographing of small objects (24). The mount has a support (4) to hold an object to be photographed. A first frame (9) is pivotally mounted to the support such that the first frame can pivot on a first pivot axis (12). A second frame (15) is mounted to the first frame (9) such that the second frame can pivot on a second pivot axis (18) which is at right angles to and passing through the first pivot axis. A camera stage is on the second frame. The support (4) can include a turntable and a mounting post. The turntable (4) rotates on a axis which passes through the meeting point (20) of the first and second axes.

Abstract: A system for capturing an image of an instruction provided on a card by a camera. The fixture includes support surface having a cradle for receiving a camera. A support member extending from the support surface for supporting the support surface a fixed distance from a surface on which the fixture is placed. The instruction card is placed in the fixtures. The photofinisher during scanning of the developed film automatically reads a coded instruction and fulfills the order in accordance with the instruction.

Abstract: The preferred embodiment of the invention comprises a base frame which provides support, a extensible telescoping mast with camera mounts to elevate a video camera to a higher vantage point, an operator control assembly which allows the user to manually aim the video camera which is beyond his reach, and a display for the user to view the output from the video camera. This gives the operator an advantageous vantage point and field of view during sporting events, social functions, photojournalism, crowd control and the study of nature, to name only a few applications. Embodiments of the invention may additionally comprise a camera control module to remotely control the electronic functions of the camera (e.g. zoom) and an optional sunscreen to shield the display from direct sunlight.

Abstract: A mount for use in the outdoors to support a camera for recording images of flora, fauna, and participants in outdoors-recreational activities. The camera mount comprises a pivot and a rotatable support plate atop a clamping mechanism, which will clamp upon square, rectangular, and round shaped shafts. A camera is statically fastened to the rotatable support plate by a thumbscrew extending through a round hole and tightened. The pivot and rotatable support plate mount to the clamping mechanism with a bolt extending through holes aligned in each and a threaded knob, that when tightened or loosened on the bolt adjusts compressive tension on the clamping mechanism; also, securing the desired angle of rotation. An embodiment is shown of an alternate position of the bottom of the clamping mechanism for mounting on smaller round shafts. A method of mounting a camera for use in the recording of flora, fauna, and participants in outdoors-recreational activities is disclosed.

Abstract: A microprocessor controlled servo device for carrying and driving a camera, comprises a microprocessor chip processing control circuit, an I/O port, and a servo set. A user operates a keyboard to input a control signal input command and a control signal input termination command. The microprocessor reads the related program and data stored in a memory then inputs a corresponding control pulse signal to a servo set after control processing, and drives a servo to rotate after comparison and amplification. The servo set comprises two driving circuit servos that control and move a camera horizontally and vertically. The servos carry and move the camera in order to perform functions of camera monitoring, such as location memorizing of a plurality of preset points, cruise scanning, alarm output, and automatic tracking. The user can see whether the input command is correct and to monitor system execution by means of an LCD.

Abstract: A video camera support device with an improved device for stabilizing recorded images by eliminating camera movement. The camera support device comprises a hand held monopod having motion-absorbing elements. The motion absorbing elements provide counter balance and shock absorbing means incorporated within the handle. The support device further provides a panning aiming arm with a remote control affixed thereto for remote operation of the camera.

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 camera is suitable for installation in a passenger car motor vehicle and is arranged on a superstructure via a retaining device. To make sure that the camera will be advantageously integrated into the motor vehicle, it can be swung by the retaining device out of a resting position sunk into a wall of the superstructure into an extended operating position and vice versa.

Abstract: A car door rearview mirror structure having a mirror disposed on a rear side of the main body of the rearview mirror and electrically adjustable in inclination angle. A front cover body is mated with front side of the main body and a partitioning board is disposed in the main body to separate the front cover body from the mirror. A camera lens is disposed on the surface of front side of the partitioning board. The front face of the front cover body is formed with a window in front of the camera lens with a transparent cover fitted in the window to seal the window. By means of the camera lens and through the transparent cover, the view of a dead corner on a front side of the car is transmitted to a display arranged in the car so as to ensure driving safety.

Abstract: A belt clip is suitable for use with a camera that includes a pair of front and rear cover parts, a main body part between the front and rear cover parts, and a particular device on the main body part that needs electrical energy to be able to operate and has a power switch with a movable switch element that is moved to change the power switch from a normal state to a working state in order to provide electrical energy to the device. The belt clip has a clip portion for holding one's belt between the clip portion and the rear cover part, an actuating portion for moving the movable switch element to change the power switch from its normal to working state, and an intermediate portion between the clip and actuating portions.

Abstract: This invention relates to an image pickup apparatus having a stable holding mechanism which can pivot through a predetermined amount to switch between two predetermined positions in using and repositing states, and enables stable phototaking operation. The image pickup apparatus has a grip member which assists the grip of the image pickup apparatus main body for the user and can pivot through a predetermined amount about a pivot support to switch between two predetermined positions in using and repositing states. The pivot support which pivotally supports the grip member is arranged at a corner of the side surface of the image pickup apparatus main body farthest from the phototaking optical system.

Abstract: A microprocessor-controlled servo device carrying and driving camera, mainly comprises a microprocessor-chip-processed control circuit, an I/O port a servo set. A user operate a keyboard to input a control signal input command and control signal input termination command, microprocessor will read the relating program and data stored in a memory, then inputs a corresponding control pulse signal to a sever set after control process, and drives a servo to rotate after comparison, magnification and operation in the servo set. The servo set comprises two driving circuit two servos that carry and move a camera horizontally and vertically. Under the control of the present invention, the servos that carry and move the camera can do many functions of camera monitoring, such as the locating memorizing of a plurality of preset points, cruise scanning, alarm outputting and automatic tracking.

Abstract: A camera stand and camera housing for allowing users to photograph themselves with a single use camera. The stand may include a tripod having legs that are adjustable in and out to spread the legs and collapse them together. A camera pedestal at the top of the tripod has a ball that fits in a socket on the bottom of the camera housing to provide for universal aiming of the camera. The camera housing has a rear opening for loading and unloading of cameras and a hinged door for closing the rear opening. Alignment surfaces inside the housing assure that all commercially available single use cameras are positioned with their shutter buttons located directly below a striker which actuates the shutter button. A control mechanism forces the striker downwardly against the shutter button after elapse of a time delay giving the user enough time to move in front of the camera.

Abstract: A crane for lifting, moving, and positioning a camera or other object. The Omni-Boom crane configuration allows much more unrestricted movement that a conventional single boom design.

Abstract: A system for capturing an image of an instruction provided on a card by a camera. The fixture includes support surface having a cradle for receiving a camera. A support member extending from the support surface for supporting the support surface a fixed distance from a surface on which the fixture is placed. The instruction card is placed in the fixtures. The photofinisher during scanning of the developed film automatically reads a coded instruction and fulfills the order in accordance with the instruction.

Abstract: An object of the invention is to provide a driving mechanism of a simple structure capable of preventing transmission of vibration generated by a rotative driving source such as a motor to an object to be driven such as a camera. Driving the motor to rotate its output shaft causes a rotating member to rotate. Concurrently an elastic roller rotates and transmits a driving force to a force point section of a driven member. During such operation, since slight vibration generated by the motor is damped absorbed in the roller, the vibration transmitted to the driven member becomes substantially slighter. When the driving force is applied to a force point section the force point section is caused to swing, and concurrently the camera fixed to an action point section is caused to swing. Since transmission of vibration generated by the motor can be prevented, images taken by the camera will not shake.

Abstract: A tiltable device for carrying an object thereon includes a base, first and second rails arranged on the base and inclined such that they are located close to each other at one end and remote from each other at the other end, a first lateral link having opposite ends movably arranged on the first and second rails, respectively, a second lateral link parallel to the first lateral link and serving as a tiltable base for carrying an object thereon, and first and second vertical links parallel to each other and each rotatably connected to the first and second lateral links for holding the first and second lateral links together.

Abstract: A belt clip is suitable for use with a camera that includes a pair of front and rear cover parts, a main body part between the front and rear cover parts, and a particular device on the main body part that needs electrical energy to be able to operate and has a power switch with a movable switch element that is moved to change the power switch from a normal state to a working state in order to provide electrical energy to the device. The belt clip has a clip portion for holding one's belt between the clip portion and the rear cover part, an actuating portion for moving the movable switch element to change the power switch from its normal to working state, and an intermediate portion between the clip and actuating portions.

Abstract: A mechanical self-leveling camera assembly for remote positioning from a deployment position is provided. The self-leveling camera assembly comprises a camera, a weight, a camera housing, and an elongate rod for deploying the camera assembly. The camera and weight are freely rotatable within the housing about an axis such that gravitational forces maintain the rotational orientation of the camera independent of the housing. A slip ring may be included for positioning between the camera housing and the camera, for receipt of, for example, ground, power, or video wires. The camera optionally includes a light-emitting diode ring especially useful for lighting near zero ambient light environments.

Abstract: A camera mount includes a body including a flat surface for mounting a camera. A hollow post is located on the flat surface and sized to fit within a mounting hole of the camera. A trigger device for raising and lowering a first connector is located within the hollow post. The first connector mates with a complimentary connector located within the mounting hole of the camera and a second connector is located on the body for connecting to a cable. The second connector is electrically connected to the first connector.

Abstract: The apparatus has a first and a second member (5,6) and a device (7) for the fixing of a guide rail (1) with an optical apparatus to the members. The device (7) contains a blocking member (8) and a lever (9) with a holding device (10) standing under spring action, the lever being pivotally mounted on the blocking member and contacting the second member (6) in such a way that the lever fixes the optical apparatus in a first position, frees the optical apparatus for displacement in a second position and releases the optical apparatus for removal in a third position.

Abstract: Apparatus for positioning a video teleconferencing camera including a base member having a flat metal base portion and a vertically depending metal arm, the base portion and arm being covered with an elastomeric material, the elastomeric material being shaped to form a socket on the arm which receives a ball member extending from in camera body to form a ball-and-socket connection.

Abstract: A camera mounting assembly for a weapon is provided. The mounting assembly includes a mount for direct attachment to the weapon. A parallelogram linkage includes a pair of depending swing arms, each of which is pivotally secured at one end in the mount and at the opposite end in a camera support. The support also includes a transverse slot for receiving a stud or other mount carried by a camera. When the weapon is discharged, the swing arms allow the camera and support to together swing to and fro in response to the forces generated. During this swinging motion, the support and hence the camera are both maintained substantially aligned with the line-of-sight of the weapon at all times, thereby ensuring that the shoot is reliably captured. Dampers may also be provided to dampen the swinging motion of the camera created upon discharge. The combination of the swinging and damping improves the capture of the shoot by reducing the effects of the recoil or discharge forces.

Abstract: A camera positioning seat includes a connecting device, an hook, and a position device. The connecting device has a connecting piece. One surface of the connecting piece has an embedding piece, a rear surface of the camera is installed with a buckling groove with respect to a position of the embedding piece. An elastic hook is installed at one lateral side of another surface of the connecting piece. The position device has a fixing box, and a sticky object is installed at one surface of the fixing box. Thereby, when the camera is to be fixed to the display device, the embedding piece of the connecting piece is embedded into the buckling groove at the rear side of the camera, and then the hook at another surface of the connecting device is hooked to the fixing box. Afterwards, by the sticky object of the fixing box is fixed to the display device and thus, the camera is fixed to the display device. The structure of the positioning seat has a simple structure and can be assembled and detached convenient.

Abstract: An adjustable length shaft assembly including a handle portion and an extensible shaft. An upper end of the shaft includes a set of locking teeth. The handle has an internal locking mechanism with a tooth rack to accommodate the locking teeth. A control handle is rotated in a first direction, rotating the teeth away from the tooth rack, where the teeth are in a disengaged, unlocked position. With the teeth unlocked, the shaft can be longitudinally adjusted to achieve the desired length. Then, the control handle is rotated in a second direction, rotating the teeth into the tooth rack, where the teeth are in an engaged, locked position. In this manner, the teeth and the tooth rack provide a plurality of positive locking positions, each position providing a different shaft length.