Having Stabilization Patents (Class 396/421)
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Patent number: 12212847Abstract: A device includes a mechanical stabilization system is used in image signal processing. The mechanical image stabilization system has an operating bandwidth and includes a motor to control an orientation of an image sensor. A processing apparatus of the device determines a temperature of the motor and adjusts a cutoff frequency of the operating bandwidth based on the temperature of the motor.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2024Date of Patent: January 28, 2025Assignee: GoPro, Inc.Inventors: Joseph A. Enke, Stepan Moskovchenko, Benjamin P. Tankersley, Adam Fenn, Nenad Uzunovic
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Patent number: 12194628Abstract: A robotic manipulator comprises a plurality of spring compensated joints, each including a four-bar linkage mechanism, a gravity compensating spring, a spring adjustment mechanism, a spring adjustment actuator and an inertial actuator. The gravity compensating spring is coupled between two links of the four-bar linkage mechanism at two different spring attachment points to provide a lifting force opposing a gravitational load force. The spring adjustment mechanism is coupled to alter a position of one of the spring attachment points. The spring adjustment actuator is coupled to move the spring adjustment mechanism to alter the position of the spring attachment point and adjust the amount of lifting force provided by the spring. The inertial actuator is coupled between links of the four-bar linkage mechanism to effectuate rotational movement of the four-bar linkage mechanism and apply an adjustable amount of force to accelerate and manipulate a payload handled by the robotic manipulator.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2023Date of Patent: January 14, 2025Assignee: Apptronik, Inc.Inventors: Nicholas Paine, Jonas Alexan Fox, Bradley Aaron Resh
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Patent number: 11892122Abstract: Proposed is a vibration-proof hanger. According to one embodiment, the vibration-proof hanger includes a fitting bracket having a fixed plate configured to allow a first surface to be integrally fixed to an artificial structure, wherein a hinge unit is provided on a second surface of the fixed plate, a tilting arm unit configured to allow one end to be rotatably fixed to the hinge unit to be tilted, and a vibration-proof unit configured to be coupled to the tilting arm unit to absorb vibration transferred to the tilting arm unit or rotate to prevent vibration of the tilting arm unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2021Date of Patent: February 6, 2024Inventors: Sunbeom Hwang, Yeong-eun Hwang
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Patent number: 11852282Abstract: A gimbal includes an axis structure including a rotating member, a bearing member rotatably connected to the rotating member, and a locking structure. The rotating member includes a rotor of a motor or a member fixedly connected to a rotor. The bearing member includes a stator of the motor or a member fixedly connected to a stator. The locking structure includes a positioning snap member movably provided on one of the rotating member and the bearing member and configured to engage with another one of the rotating member and the bearing member. The axis structure is a yaw-axis structure, a roll-axis structure or a pitch-axis structure. The motor is configured to control a movement about a pitch axis, a movement about a yaw axis, or a movement about a roll axis. A rotational position of the rotating member relative to the bearing member is locked by the locking structure when the rotating member rotates to a preset position.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2022Date of Patent: December 26, 2023Assignee: SZ DJI TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventors: Xin Yan, Xifeng Zhao, Rongjian Sun, Zhuo Guo
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Patent number: 11852958Abstract: A gimbal control method includes obtaining a working parameter of a gimbal, where the gimbal includes an axial arm and a motor configured to drive the axial arm to rotate to drive a photographing device mounted on the gimbal to move in one or more directions. The method further includes obtaining a working parameter of the gimbal when the gimbal is controlled by a remote controller; and in response to the measured working parameter being greater than the working parameter of the gimbal when the gimbal is controlled by the remote controller, controlling the motor to drive the axial arm to rotate to a target attitude.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2021Date of Patent: December 26, 2023Assignee: SZ DJI OSMO TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventors: Yan Wang, Tie Su
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Patent number: 11720004Abstract: A camera support includes a post, a gimbal assembly, and a mounting member. The mounting member couples the gimbal assembly to the post for rotation of the gimbal assembly about a pan axis coincident with a longitudinal axis of symmetry of the post. The gimbal assembly includes a roll cradle, a tilt body and a second mounting member. The roll cradle is movably secured to the first mounting member for rotation about a roll axis perpendicular to the pan axis. The tilt body is movably mounted to the roll cradle for rotation about a tilt axis perpendicular to both the pan axis and the roll axis. The second mounting member is connected to the tilt body for attaching a camera to the tilt body.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2021Date of Patent: August 8, 2023Assignee: CINEMA DEVICES, INC.Inventors: Adam Teichman, Charles Papert
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Patent number: 11537029Abstract: A gimbal handle includes an enclosure including an accommodation space, a main control board accommodated in the accommodation space, and an electrical contact member provided at the main control board and electrically connected to the main control board. The electrical contact member penetrates the enclosure to expose to an outside of the enclosure. The electrical contact member is configured to be electrically connected to an adapter.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2020Date of Patent: December 27, 2022Assignee: SZ DJI TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventors: Shengjia Guo, Dexi Li, Guisheng Nong, Yin Tang
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Patent number: 11104452Abstract: A gimbal includes a rotatable frame assembly configured to be electrically connected to a camera, and a quick release structure configured to detachably mount the camera to the frame assembly. The quick release structure includes an engaging member configured to be coupled to the camera and a fixing part configured to be coupled to the frame assembly and detachably connected to the engaging member. The engaging member includes a connecting surface configured to face away from the camera, an elastic member fixed on the connecting surface, and a first connector fixed on the elastic member. The fixing part includes a connecting plate and a second connector fixed on the connecting plate. A rotation of at least a portion of the fixing part with respect to the engaging member allows the first connector to be electrically coupled to or decoupled from the second connector.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2020Date of Patent: August 31, 2021Assignee: SZ DJI TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventors: Xifeng Zhao, Rongjian Sun
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Patent number: 10801659Abstract: A handheld gimbal includes a handle and a stabilizer. The handle includes a grip portion and a rotating portion rotatably connected to the grip portion. The stabilizer is mounted at the rotating portion and positioned distal from the grip portion. The stabilizer is configured to carry an imaging assembly. The rotating portion is configured to drive the stabilizer to rotate relative to the grip portion to switch the handheld gimbal from a first attitude to a second attitude.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2019Date of Patent: October 13, 2020Assignee: SZ DJI OSMO TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventors: Tianhang Ma, Xifeng Zhao
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Patent number: 10770992Abstract: The present invention provides a stabilizer and a stabilizer auto-rotating control method, wherein the stabilizer comprises: a hand-held component; a first motor, a second motor and a third motor provided on top of the hand-held component and separated from each other by preset angles in space; a bracket connected with the first motor and configured to fix a target object; a stator of the third motor being connected to the hand-held component; a rotor of the third motor being connected to a stator of the second motor; a rotor of the second motor being connected to a stator of the first motor; a rotor of the first motor being connected to the bracket.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2018Date of Patent: September 8, 2020Assignee: Guilin Feiyu Technology Corporation Ltd.Inventor: Chengyun Wei
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Patent number: 10739609Abstract: The illustrative embodiments provide for a telescope. The telescope includes a housing; an optical assembly disposed inside the housing and configured to gather light from a distant object; and a jitter reduction system connected to the housing. The jitter reduction system includes a first flexure assembly comprising a first base to which is attached to a first armature connected to a first linear motor winding configured to push out a first flexure connected to the first armature and to push out a second flexure connected to the first armature opposite the first flexure, wherein the first flexure and the second flexure have a first normal axis pointing through a center of mass of the optical assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2018Date of Patent: August 11, 2020Assignee: National Technology & Engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLCInventors: Peter G. Stromberg, Patrick S. Barney
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Patent number: 10655776Abstract: A gimbal and a camera apparatus are provided. The gimbal includes an electric motor and a rotation bracket connected to the electric motor and driven by the electric motor to rotate. The electric motor includes a first body, a second body, a magnetic ring disposed in the first body, a position sensing assembly disposed in the second body, and a mechanical limit mechanism disposed between the first body and the second body to define a limiting position of the first body when rotating relative to the second body. A positioning structure is disposed at a pre-determined position of a magnetic field of the magnetic ring. When the first body rotates relative to the second body to the limiting position, the position sensing assembly is capable of sensing a pre-determined magnetic field signal.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2019Date of Patent: May 19, 2020Assignee: SZ DJI OSMO TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventors: Yongjie Huang, Zhongjie Zheng
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Patent number: 10642133Abstract: A camera mounting system has an upper mount component, a lower mount component, and a base mount component. The upper mount component secures the camera and has a ball protrusion that reciprocally couples with a socket of the lower mount component. The upper mount component can rotate 360 degrees relative to the lower mount, and can pivot 90 degrees or more relative to the lower mount component. The lower mount component couples with the base mount component in a plurality of orientations. This camera mounting system allows for a large range of motion for the camera relative to the mounting system.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2019Date of Patent: May 5, 2020Assignee: GoPro, Inc.Inventor: Christopher Aaron Clearman
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Patent number: 10642130Abstract: An embodiment provides a motorized monopole for a camera, including: a hand-held monopole; a first motor positioned at an end of the hand-held monopole; a first connecting element attached to the first motor; a second motor positioned at an end of the first connecting element; a second connecting element attached to the second motor; a third motor positioned at an end of the second connecting element; and a camera mounting plate attached to the second connecting element by the third motor, where components of the multi-axis gimbal are positioned such that a camera viewing axis, a horizontal image axis, and a vertical image axis of a camera mounted on the camera mounting plate need not be aligned with any of a rotational axis of the first motor, a rotational axis of the second motor, or a rotational axis of the third motor. Other aspects are described and claimed.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2017Date of Patent: May 5, 2020Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Gunter Niemeyer, Miquel Angel Farre Guiu, Vince Roberts, Anthony Accardo, Michael Holton
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Patent number: 10551724Abstract: One embodiment provides a monopole for a camera, including: a pole of length sufficient for two handed operation; an offset arrangement attached to an end of the pole, the offset arrangement comprising a first element connected at an angle to the end of the pole and a second element connected to the first element; the first element rotating about a first axis with respect to the end of the pole; the second element rotating about a second axis with respect to the first element; a camera mount attached to the second element, wherein the camera mount rotates about a third axis with respect to the second element; and at least one motor aligned with the first, the second or the third axis and imparting movement to the camera mount with respect to the pole in at least one degree of freedom selected from the group consisting of tilt, pan and roll. Other aspects are described and claimed.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2016Date of Patent: February 4, 2020Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Vincent H. Roberts, Kenneth D. Salter, Anthony M. Accardo, Miquel Angel Farre Guiu, Gunter Niemeyer
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Patent number: 10298846Abstract: A method for adjusting a pointing angle of an actively stabilized camera is provided. The camera is housed by an active stabilization system configured to stabilize the camera in accordance with a commanded pointing angle. The active stabilization system comprises a steering member rotatable around one or more of a pan axis, tilt axis, and roll axis of the system. The method comprises: deriving a joint angle measurement of the steering member associated with a rotational movement of the steering member and adjusting the pointing angle of the camera, based on the derived joint angle measurement, in a direction of the rotational movement of the steering member, if the joint angle measurement exceeds the threshold window. If the joint angle measurement is within the threshold window, the pointing angle of the camera is actively stabilized in accordance with the commanded pointing angle.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2014Date of Patent: May 21, 2019Assignee: FREEFLY SYSTEMS, INC.Inventors: Steve Webb, John Ellison, Tabb Firchau, David Bloomfield
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Patent number: 10240716Abstract: An ergonomic rig for operating a virtual camera device comprises, in one embodiment, a first leg rigidly coupled to a center mount configured to support a virtual camera display. Additionally, a second leg is spaced apart from the first leg and rotatably coupled to the center mount, and one or more means for executing motion tracking, such as motion capture display rods and markers, are disposed on a top end of the second leg. Finally, an ergonomically-shaped handle is rotatably secured to the second leg below a joint defined by the rotatable coupling of the second leg and center mount. Thus, two linearly displaced rotational joints may be provided in order to increase rotation achievable by any virtual camera calibration devices secured to the rig while avoiding excessive flexion and extension in a user's wrist, fingers, and/or shoulder.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2016Date of Patent: March 26, 2019Inventor: Dan Neufeldt
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Patent number: 9983580Abstract: A plurality of air data may be collected by a sensor within a data center. The plurality of air data is received by a processor. At least a portion of the received plurality of air data corresponding to at least one zone within the data center may be determined to satisfy a threshold. Coordinates of a geographical location associated with the zone that includes the sensor may be transmitted to a robotic filter. The robotic filter can be dispatched to the transmitted geographic location to filter the zone.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2017Date of Patent: May 29, 2018Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Shankar KM, Aiswarya L. Mohanasundaram
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Patent number: 9903533Abstract: The present invention discloses a triaxial stabilizer for mobile phone, comprising a handheld part, a fixing device for mobile phone, and three motors which are arranged at top of the handheld part and are orthogonal in a space, wherein the three motors are respectively an X-axis motor, a Y-axis motor, and a Z-axis motor, wherein the Z-axis motor has a stator connected with the handheld part and has a rotor connected with a stator of the Y-axis motor, the Y-axis motor has a rotor connected with a stator of the X-axis motor, and the X-axis motor has a rotor connected with the fixing device for mobile phone. The triaxial stabilizer for mobile phone according to the present invention may quickly stabilize the mobile phone and control its shooting direction during moving shooting.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2016Date of Patent: February 27, 2018Assignee: GUILIN FEIYU TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION LTD.Inventor: Chengyun Wei
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Patent number: 9781312Abstract: A platform for interchangeably mounting a payload to a base support is provided. In one aspect, the platform comprises: a support assembly configured to be releasably coupled to a payload via a first coupling and configured to control a spatial disposition of the payload; and a mounting assembly configured to be releasably coupled via a second coupling to a plurality of types of base supports selected from at least two of the following: an aerial vehicle, a handheld support, or a base adapter mounted onto a movable object.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2016Date of Patent: October 3, 2017Assignee: SZ DJI TECHNOLOGY CO., LTDInventors: Paul Pan, Xifeng Zhao, Tao Zhao
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Patent number: 9575330Abstract: A payload stabilizer suitable for use with video camera payloads. The stabilizer has a feedback system providing supplemental torques to the payload through a gimbal while remaining responsive to direct operator control.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2016Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Inventors: Steven D. Wagner, Garrett W. Brown, Ty Corey Hargroder, H. Robert Orf
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Patent number: 9574703Abstract: A stabilization system or gimbal having a mounting arrangement (3) for a camera providing for rotation about pan, roll, and tilt axes (210, 230, 220) where tilt and roll axis (220, 230) position can be independently adjusted is described. The arrangement can be configured so that when adjusting the stabilization frame relative to the roll axis, adjustment of the camera COG relative to the tilt axis is inhibited. The system can further be arranged such that when adjusting the roll axis, adjustment relative to the tilt axis is inhibited. Similarly, when adjusting the pan axis, adjustment to the tilt or roll axes may be inhibited.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: FREEFLY SYSTEMS, INC.Inventors: Tabb Firchau, David Bloomfield, Shane Colton, Ian Roper
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Patent number: 9557006Abstract: A support assembly for a camera rig. The support assembly includes a frame having a first end and a second end and a positioning member movably coupled to the frame. The positioning member is configured to removably secure a camera. A support member presents a mounting surface and is pivotably coupled to the frame adjacent the first end or the second end.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2015Date of Patent: January 31, 2017Assignee: PROMARK INTERNATIONAL, INC.Inventor: Patrick J. Fee
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Patent number: 9366376Abstract: This invention provides a portable camera jib assembly that is retractable between a relatively short retracted position and a significantly extended fully elongated position. The jib assembly is constructed from a series of upper and lower telescoping tubes that nest within each other. It includes a bottom bracket that is pivotally attached to a tripod base and a top, camera-supporting bracket that is attached to an end of the upper and lower telescoping tubes. The tubes include twist-lock rings to maintain a predetermined length of extension, and notably, the bottom bracket includes upper and lower knuckles that slidably guide the respective upper and lower tubes so as to allow complete retraction of the tubes that brings the top bracket into close proximity with the bottom bracket—thereby ensuring a highly compact shape when fully retracted for enhanced portability.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2013Date of Patent: June 14, 2016Inventor: Zeke L. Kamm
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Patent number: 9353907Abstract: A mounting bracket includes a main body having a continuous side wall that defines an interior cavity configured to engage a support member therein. The continuous side wall includes at least one aperture configured to accept an engaging mechanism configured to frictionally engage the support member. The mounting bracket includes a substantially horizontal mounting plate attached to the main body. The substantially horizontal mounting plate has a first aperture spaced from the main body wherein the first aperture is configured to accept a retaining mechanism configured to engage a device.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2015Date of Patent: May 31, 2016Inventor: Brent Brekke
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Patent number: 9191574Abstract: A vehicular vision system includes at least three cameras disposed at the vehicle and having respective fields of view exterior of the vehicle and operable to capture image data. Image data received at a video processor module is processed by a video processor of the video processor module. The received image data is processed by the video processor to generate a synthesized image. The synthesized image is output from the video processor module for display by a single display screen of a display device that is viewable by a driver of the equipped vehicle when normally operating the vehicle. The video processor may be operable for least one of (i) object tracking, (ii) object classification, (iii) diagnostics, (iv) camera selection, (v) camera control, (vi) on-screen display generation, (vii) data storage and (viii) data exchange.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2013Date of Patent: November 17, 2015Assignee: MAGNA ELECTRONICS INC.Inventors: Martha A. McMahon, Troy O. Cooprider
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Patent number: 9143661Abstract: A balanced, modular camera mounting apparatus providing near hands free support and positioning of a mounted camera with infinite adjustment capability. The apparatus is comprised of a shoulder brace, at least one intermediate assembly plate, a camera mount plate, and a weight/accessory box. The shoulder brace includes curvature both longitudinally and laterally to ergonomically conform to the shoulder of the user. The rear end of the shoulder brace can be straight or curved and also includes a slot to adjustably connect the weight/accessory box. The shoulder brace further includes nonslip padding. Intermediate assembly plates vary in shape and size to allow for myriad adjustments providing balance and positioning according to a desired use. The camera mount plate is attached to an intermediate assembly plate. The weight/accessory box may contain extra assembly plates, camera equipment, or bagged weights as a counterbalance. Components are releasably attached to each other with hand-tightened thumbscrews.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2013Date of Patent: September 22, 2015Inventor: Leslie A. Pock
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Patent number: 9052573Abstract: A stabilizer apparatus for use with video devices that provides smooth video images. The stabilizer device comprises a gimbal system operably attached to a counterweighted pole. A video device operably attached to the top end of the pole can be balanced utilizing two or more opposing counter weights operably connected to the pole. The gimbal system is affixed to the pole and maintains the balance of the video device. A handle device attached to the gimbal system allows the stabilizer apparatus to be moved during video production, while maintaining the balance of the video device.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2013Date of Patent: June 9, 2015Assignee: STEADBITZ, LLCInventors: David Johnston, David Kaufman, Samuel William Johnston, IV
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Patent number: 9033596Abstract: A vibration dampener for a camera mount is structured to reduce the movement of a first mount component relative to a second mount component. An upper camera mount component securing a camera couples to a lower camera mount component, which in turn couples to a base mount component configured to couple to a user, a sports board, a helmet, a vehicle, and the like. The vibration dampener is compressibly inserted between the lower mount component and the base mount component, causing the vibration dampener to exert an outward force on the lower mount component, and securing the lower mount component against a portion of the base mount component. The movement of the lower mount component relative to the base mount component is accordingly reduced by the vibration dampener.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2012Date of Patent: May 19, 2015Assignee: GoPro, Inc.Inventor: Rudy Lucas Samuels
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Patent number: 9011027Abstract: A camera supporting device includes a jib arm supporting a camera mount for panning and tilting movement relative to a base structure. A parallel linkage couples the camera mount at one end of the jib arm to the base structure pivotally supporting the jib arm thereon at an intermediate location. The jib arm is readily separable into two portions for storage with the parallel linkage being wholly contained within a hollow tubular member forming one of the two portions while an adjustable trim weight and counterweight support are supported on the other portion. Interchangeable indexing rings permit indexing of the panning or tilting movements.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2013Date of Patent: April 21, 2015Inventors: Dennis Wood, Tyler J. F. Bragnalo
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Patent number: 8985879Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention includes an apparatus for stabilizing a camera, the apparatus including a first main body having at least front, top, bottom, left and right surfaces forming a wedge shape, the top and bottom surfaces including a concave back edge adapted to engage a stationary structure, the front surface including a surface texture adapted to engage the camera; and optionally a second main body of similar structure. The first body includes at least one tab on at least one of the right and left surfaces and the second body includes at least one slot on at least one of the right and left surfaces wherein the at least one tab is shaped to engage the at least one slot.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2012Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignee: Extreme Hunting Solutions, LLCInventor: Randall Ferman
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Publication number: 20150071627Abstract: An automated stabilizing apparatus includes a bracket to mount an image device such as a camcorder or camera phone and a differential gear assembly connected to the bracket; a first and second drive system, consists of a bidirectional DC motor, an encoder, and a gear train, having an output shaft couples to the differential gear assembly; and an electronic enclosure houses controls elements that include a microcontroller, motor drivers, and sensors in communication with the drive systems to maintain the bracket and image device steady over a wide range of positions.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2014Publication date: March 12, 2015Inventor: Chi Khai Hoang
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Patent number: 8960211Abstract: The invention combines the functionality of a hiking pole and a camera tripod. A hiking pole is augmented with an attachment for a camera and with a plurality of flexible tethers, each of which have one end that attaches near the top of the pole and the other end which can be stood on or otherwise immobilized relative to the ground. The combination of the tethers and the rigid pole will restrict all freedom of motion of the camera and allow stabilized, long exposure pictures to be taken. When not taking pictures, in the preferred embodiment of the invention, the tethers can be retracted and stored, leaving the user with a functioning hiking pole.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2014Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Inventor: Bruce Colin Eng
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Patent number: 8938161Abstract: A method for adjusting a pointing angle of an actively stabilized camera is provided. The camera is housed by an active stabilization system configured to stabilize the camera in accordance with a commanded pointing angle. The active stabilization system comprises a steering member rotatable around one or more of a pan axis, tilt axis, and roll axis of the system. The method comprises: deriving a joint angle measurement of the steering member associated with a rotational movement of the steering member and adjusting the pointing angle of the camera, based on the derived joint angle measurement, in a direction of the rotational movement of the steering member, if the joint angle measurement exceeds the threshold window. If the joint angle measurement is within the threshold window, the pointing angle of the camera is actively stabilized in accordance with the commanded pointing angle.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2014Date of Patent: January 20, 2015Assignee: Freefly Systems, Inc.Inventors: Steve Webb, John Ellison, Tabb Firchau, David Bloomfield
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Patent number: 8882088Abstract: A shock and vibration isolator camera includes a top plate is attached to a bottom plate via a universal joint that allows the top plate to pivot about two mutually perpendicular axes relative to the bottom plate. A camera attachment fitting, such a Mitchell mount fitting, may be provided on the top plate, for attaching a camera or camera accessory to the top plate. A threaded fitting may be provided on the bottom plate, for attaching the isolator to a supporting structure. A dampener/spring element is positioned between the top and bottom plates. The dampener/spring element may be separate springs and dampeners, such as gas or viscous dampeners. Alternatively, spring loaded shock absorbers, or a resilient material may be used.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2012Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: Chapman/Leonard Studio Equipment, Inc.Inventor: Leonard T. Chapman
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Patent number: 8861947Abstract: A active stabilization system and a method for correcting a pointing direction of a camera to compensate for translational movements of the camera are described. The system actively stabilizes a pointing direction of the camera in accordance with a commanded pointing angle. A distance from the camera to a filming target is determined and one or more translational measurements associated with a translational movement of the camera are derived. A correction update is calculated as a function of at least the distance and the one or more translational measurements. The commanded pointing angle of the camera is adjusted based on the correction update to retain the filming target within a field of view of the camera.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2014Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: Freefly Systems, Inc.Inventors: Steve Webb, John Ellison, Tabb Firchau
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Patent number: 8845103Abstract: A stabilizing controller to balance, support and orient a device. The stabilizing controller includes a gimbal assembly positioned at the center of balance of the stabilizing controller with the device attached, A handle is disposed around the gimbal assembly. A center post is coincident with at least a portion of the centerline of the gimbal apparatus and has a longitudinal balancing axis Z. Motion about at least one of the mutually perpendicular X-axis, Y-axis, and the Z-axis is isolated from the motion of the other axes via one or more assemblies comprising resilient components.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2014Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Inventor: Garrett W. Brown
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Patent number: 8827575Abstract: The apparatus for stabilizing a camera when used in an underwater environment comprises a hand grab having a flat top surface, the flat top surface of the hand grab slidably engaging a pair of elongate parallel rods at a proximal end of the rods, the rods further slidably engaging, at a distal end thereof, a platform resting upon the rods which engages a camera base, and a fin of predetermined configuration, the fin being slidably engaged upon the rods at a position between the proximal and distal ends thereof, the structures being movable along the length of the rods to establish a stabilization of the camera as a user is moving through water, or as water is moving past the camera. Further, at least one distally directed light source is provided suitably engaged to or provided on an undersurface of the fin.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2014Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Inventor: Brad W Caldeira
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Patent number: 8801302Abstract: A camera stabilizer having a camera mount for attaching and positioning a camera, a gimbal component disposed below the camera mount and positioned at or near the center of gravity and a balancing arm. A handle is offset from a line through the center of gravity of the stabilizer plus camera. Adjustable weights are provided in a balancing arm to vary the center of gravity location.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2013Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: The Tiffen Company, LLCInventors: H. Robert Orf, Frank A. Rush
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Publication number: 20140205276Abstract: A stabilizer apparatus for use with video devices that provides smooth video images. The stabilizer device comprises a gimbal system operably attached to a counterweighted pole. A video device operably attached to the top end of the pole can be balanced utilizing two or more opposing counter weights operably connected to the pole. The gimbal system is affixed to the pole and maintains the balance of the video device. A handle device attached to the gimbal system allows the stabilizer apparatus to be moved during video production, while maintaining the balance of the video device.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2013Publication date: July 24, 2014Applicant: STEADIBITZ, LLCInventors: DAVID JOHNSTON, DAVID KAUFMAN, SAMUEL WILLIAM JOHNSTON, IV
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Patent number: 8780263Abstract: A balanced mounting arrangement stably supports a motion-sensitive, image capture device, and includes a mount for holding the device during image capture, and a handheld equipoising structure having a support platform on which the mount and the held device are mounted during image capture, a bottom counterweight below the platform, and a curved arm extending along an arcuate path between the platform and the counterweight. A weight component is mounted on, and is movable relative to and along, the curved arm to adjust a vertical balance position of the arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2010Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: The Tiffen Company LLCInventor: Hans Robert Orf
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Patent number: 8757900Abstract: A body-mount camera crane includes a camera platform pivotally attached to the front ends of the left and right tubes and an accessory platform pivotally attached to the back ends of the left and right tubes. A hip belt is pivotally attached to the left and right tubes at an intermediate position. In use, the crane is supported largely on the operator's hips via the hip belt. The elevation of the lens is changed by pivoting the crane up and down. The operator correspondingly pivots the camera platform to keep the camera level. Alternatively a parallelogram linkage keeps the camera platform level. The length of the tubes may be adjusted based on the weights of the camera and the accessories, such as batteries, on the accessory platform, to keep the crane balanced.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2013Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: Chapman/Leonard Studio Equipment, Inc.Inventor: Leonard T. Chapman
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Patent number: 8746993Abstract: A system for mounting a camera to an arm is disclosed. Specifically, the system can comprise a bracket system capable of supporting a camera; and an arm mount, wherein the bracket system connects to the arm mount. The system can also comprise a hinge system that mounts bracket system to arm mount. The hinge system can comprise a first portion and a second portion. The first portion can connect to the bracket system, and the second portion can connect to the arm mount.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2011Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Inventor: Brent Wayne Sherwood
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Publication number: 20140147104Abstract: A camera stabilizer having a camera mount for attaching and positioning a camera, a gimbal component disposed below the camera mount and positioned at or near the center of gravity and a balancing arm. A handle is offset from a line through the center of gravity of the stabilizer plus camera. Adjustable weights are provided in a balancing arm to vary the center of gravity location.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2013Publication date: May 29, 2014Applicant: The Tiffen Company, LLCInventors: H. Robert Orf, Frank A. Rush
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Patent number: 8731387Abstract: Systems, apparatus, methods, etc. for stabilizing mobile devices. Various embodiments provide stabilizers which comprise a counter weight lever, a counter weight, and a handle. A yaw axis defined by a pivot point which can extend through a side of the mobile device. Moreover, the lever couples to the mobile device near its proximal end and to the counter weight at its distal end. Furthermore, the handle pivots about the mobile device at a point on the yaw axis of the mobile device. Additionally, the handle and the mobile device are biased toward each other along the yaw axis. In some embodiments the stabilizer includes a bi-conical joint or a tapered edge joint which defines the pivot point. Some stabilizers include a hinge pin to which the counter weight lever and mobile device are coupled. Furthermore, the handle can be biased toward the pivot point along the pitch and/or roll axes.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2012Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Dynamo Innovations Group, Inc.Inventors: Brent Lee Boswell, Nathan Bruce Fambro
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Patent number: 8721198Abstract: A remote control and/or gyrostabilized camera head has circular roll track segments on roll arms. A roll frame has first and second motor supports or housings. A roll motor on or in the first motor support moves the roll frame about a roll axis. A tilt motor on or in the second motor support rotates a tilt frame about a tilt axis. The weight of the roll motor support and the roll motor may be substantially the same as the tilt motor support and the tilt motor, so that the roll frame is balanced, allowing for better performance. As the camera head is a pan/roll/tilt head, the head can continue to provide movement in three axes, regardless of the camera position.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2013Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Inventor: Leonard T. Chapman
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Patent number: 8714842Abstract: A tripod head comprising a resilient force adjusting mechanism which includes a rotating operation part, a cam which is coupled to the rotating operation part and slides with the rotation of the rotating operation part, and a cam follower coming into contact with cam surfaces of the cam, wherein the cam follower is supported by a counterbalancing mechanism, and the counterbalancing mechanism is configured in such a manner that the magnitude of a resilient force to be imparted on the spring is variable in accordance with a position where the cam follower comes into contact with the cam.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2012Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: Heiwa Seiki Kogyo Co., LtdInventor: Nobuyuki Hida
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Patent number: 8714744Abstract: A stabilizing controller to balance, support and orient a device. The stabilizing controller includes a gimbal assembly positioned at the center of balance of the stabilizing controller with the device attached, A handle is disposed around the gimbal assembly. A center post is coincident with at least a portion of the centerline of the gimbal apparatus and has a longitudinal balancing axis Z. Motion about at least one of the mutually perpendicular X-axis, Y-axis, and the Z-axis is isolated from the motion of the other axes via one or more assemblies comprising resilient components.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2010Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Inventors: Nigel J. Greaves, Garrett W. Brown
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Publication number: 20140105589Abstract: A vibration dampener for a camera mount is structured to reduce the movement of a first mount component relative to a second mount component. An upper camera mount component securing a camera couples to a lower camera mount component, which in turn couples to a base mount component configured to couple to a user, a sports board, a helmet, a vehicle, and the like. The vibration dampener is compressibly inserted between the lower mount component and the base mount component, causing the vibration dampener to exert an outward force on the lower mount component, and securing the lower mount component against a portion of the base mount component. The movement of the lower mount component relative to the base mount component is accordingly reduced by the vibration dampener.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2012Publication date: April 17, 2014Inventor: Rudy Lucas Samuels
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Patent number: RE44984Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 22, 2013Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Inventor: Christopher Wawro