Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus for facilitating controlling operation of a content capturing device, in accordance with some embodiments. Accordingly, the apparatus comprises an apparatus body, an attachment mechanism, input devices, a memory device, a processing device, and a communication interface. Further, a shaft portion of the apparatus body is grasped for holding the apparatus body. Further, the attachment mechanism couples the apparatus body to a content capturing device. Further, the input devices may be reachable for manipulating while holding the apparatus body. Further, the input devices transition to one of input device states. Further, the memory device retrieves a map data comprising a mapping between the input device states and parameter control commands. Further, the processing device generates a parameter control command based on one of the input device states and the map data. Further, the communication interface transmits the parameter control command to the content capturing device.

Abstract: A handheld stabilizer comprises a handle provided with a handheld portion and a connecting portion. The stabilizer includes a ball head mechanism mounted between the connecting portion and a photographing device and adapted for adjusting the position of the photographing device. A control mechanism is adapted for controlling the motion of the ball head mechanism after receiving a location signal from the photographing device indicating that one or more human faces are not centered within a predefined location range in a screen of the photographing device. The control mechanism adjusts the position of the photographing device causing the one or more human faces to be centered within the predefined location range in the screen of the photographing device, so that a photographing function that tracks human faces is realized.

Abstract: A jump rope device includes a connection assembly having a male connecting member and a female connecting member. The male connecting member includes a head having first and second locking projections. The female connecting member defines an opening configured to receive at least a portion of the male connecting member into an internal cavity. The female connecting member includes first and second locking arms that are biased into a first position, and configured to move from the first position into a second position when the male connecting member is inserted into the opening. Rotation of the male connecting member relative to the female connecting member moves the locking projections out of contact with the locking arms and into respective apertures defined in the female connecting member, allowing the locking arms to return to the first position and creating a secure connection between the male and female connecting members.

Abstract: A device support and trigger apparatus includes a handle, a frame member attached to the handle, a cage member, and a triggering assembly including a trigger section and an actuation section. The cage member rigidly or pivotally connected to the frame member accommodates a device. The cage member can be rigidly positioned in an upright position or can be pivotally rotated to position the device in an upright position or an inverted position. The trigger section is pulled using one hand to allow the actuation section to contact and actuate an activation button of the device positioned in the upright position in front of the handle. A push rod assembly of the device support and trigger apparatus is pushed using one hand to push the trigger section to allow the actuation section to contact and actuate the activation button of the device positioned in the inverted position above the handle.

Abstract: Mounting and triggering mechanisms for first person actuation of a camera by an internally mounted remote camera actuator in the form of a handle grip are disclosed for use in any applicable activity, without limitation, such as sporting, recreational, documentary filmmaking and/or photography, or the like.

Abstract: A headrest camera mounting device comprising a primary arm having a plurality of coupling bolt holes there through. There is a mounting block having a pair of threaded slide locking bolt holes there in. There is a secondary arm. The mounting block is held between the primary arm and the secondary arm. The mounting block allows for a slidable adjustment to accept a multitude of configurations of head rest supports.

Abstract: A device support and trigger apparatus includes a handle, a frame member attached to the handle, a cage member, and a triggering assembly including a trigger section and an actuation section. The cage member rigidly or pivotally connected to the frame member accommodates a device. The cage member can be rigidly positioned in an upright position or can be pivotally rotated to position the device in an upright position or an inverted position. The trigger section is pulled using one hand to allow the actuation section to contact and actuate an activation button of the device positioned in the upright position in front of the handle. A push rod assembly of the device support and trigger apparatus is pushed using one hand to push the trigger section to allow the actuation section to contact and actuate the activation button of the device positioned in the inverted position above the handle.

Abstract: A device support and trigger apparatus includes a handle, a frame member attached to the handle, a cage member, and a triggering assembly including a trigger section and an actuation section. The cage member rigidly or pivotally connected to the frame member accommodates a device. The cage member can be rigidly positioned in an upright position or can be pivotally rotated to position the device in an upright position or an inverted position. The trigger section is pulled using one hand to allow the actuation section to contact and actuate an activation button of the device positioned in the upright position in front of the handle. A push rod assembly of the device support and trigger apparatus is pushed using one hand to push the trigger section to allow the actuation section to contact and actuate the activation button of the device positioned in the inverted position above the handle.

Abstract: A handheld communication device capable of transmitting and receiving at least voice and text communication. The device has a body assembly including a front face arranged to be directed toward an operator of the device when held in a text communicating orientation. A display screen and a text-input keyboard are included and are each exposed at the front face of the body assembly. The keyboard has a plurality of keys that include a set of alphabetic keys with which either QWERTY-, QWERTZ- AZERTY- or Dvorak-arranged alphabetic characters are associated. An integrated camera assembly is also included that is configured for taking photographs and the communication device enabled to wirelessly communicate photographs taken with the camera assembly to a remote receiver. The camera assembly includes a photo-initiating actuator having an actuated position and an unactuated position and at least one of a selective enablement device or a selective disablement device.

Abstract: A stabilized stereographic camera system may include an upright support having a longitudinal axis. A camera support coupled to one end of the upright support may mount first and second cameras, the first camera movable with respect to the second cameras. A ballast may be coupled to another end of the upright support. A balance mechanism may move a movable portion of the stereographic camera system relative to the upright support in response to movement of the first camera with respect to the second camera to maintain a constant weight distribution of the stereographic camera system.

Abstract: An accessory for use on a camera crane has a first plate attachable to an end of the camera crane arm. A second plate is pivotally attached to the first plate and moveable into a first position and into a second position perpendicular to the first position. First and second latches secure the second plate into the first and second positions, respectively. The accessory allows a camera head on a camera crane arm to be quickly and easily reoriented.

Abstract: A levelling apparatus, and in one embodiment a portable levelling camera mount (10) having a platform (14) for mounting a camera, a sensor (16) for detecting an orientation of the platform; and an actuator (12) coupled to the platform, which moves the platform in response to the orientation detected via the sensor. Typically, the mount may have a selector to operate the mount to level solely a first axis of the platform to a reference plane while the second axis of the platform is tilted with respect to the reference plane, or to operate the mount to level the platform such that both the first and the second axes of the platform are leveled to the reference plane.

Abstract: A camera holder and activation device enables a user to take pictures from vantage points spaced from the user's head. A frame defines a camera support position and an attachment device removably mounts the camera to the frame at the camera support position. An extension member such as a monopole is connected to the frame, whereby the frame may be so spaced from a user that the user cannot directly view a contemplated picture via a picture-framing element of the camera. A shifter member is movably mounted to the frame and is provided with a projection extending towards the camera support position so that motion of the shifter member brings the projection into contact with a shutter button of the camera mounted to the frame at the support position.

Abstract: A bracket for supporting an electronic device includes a receiving part, a rotating arm, a base, and a locking device. Two opposite ends of the rotating arm are connected to the electronic device and the base. The locking device includes a locking mechanism positioned on the rotating arm, and a locked part positioned on the base. The locking mechanism includes a locking member, an elastic member, and an operating member. The locked part defines a locked position and an unlocked position, the locking member is capable of moving from the locked position to the unlocked position, the elastic member provides an elastic force to keep the locking member in the locked position so that the rotating arm stops moving, the operating member is operable to enable the locking member to overcome the elastic force to move to the unlocked position so that the rotating arm is capable of rotating.

Abstract: To compensate for changes in weight distribution of transportable, hand-held camera supports when one or both camera translate or pivot in a two-camera stereographic imaging system, the bottom of the elongated camera support attaches to a compensation mechanism. The mechanism has a balance plate movable laterally on a bottom housing. Ballast mounts below the bottom housing. A motor in the bottom housing moves the balance plate and the pole laterally in response to camera pivoting or lateral movement to maintain the center of gravity of the system centered along the longitudinal axis of the elongated support.

Abstract: A support head (1) for video-photographic apparatuses (7) comprises a base (3) which can be fastened to a support structure (4) of said head (1), a platform (2, 2a) fixed rotatably to said base (3) about an axis of rotation (X), a slide (5) provided with attaching means (6) for attaching said apparatus (7) removably associable with said platform (2, 2a) so as to slide along a positioning direction (Y), a locking device (9, 10, 11, 12) for locking said slide (5) on said platform (2) in a desired position (P), and a positioning system (20) for positioning said slide (5) on said platform (2, 2a) provided with generating means (22) for generating a signal which is variable along said positioning direction (Y) and is correlated with said position (P), (and?) detector means (21) positioned on said platform (2, 2a) and capable of detecting said signal, said generating means (22) for generating a variable signal being provided on said slide (5) and configured in such a way that a specific value of said detected signa

Abstract: Embodiments of hands-free camera holders according to the present disclosure can enable a user to obtain the exact picture they want by giving them complete control of the camera position. A hands-free camera holder can include a camera support member, e.g., a platform, that is connected by way of an adjustable frame. In optional embodiments, the user can connect to the frame by way or a collar/harness. By using a switch, or trigger means, that is connected to the camera, to take the picture, the framing of the picture is not disturbed, whether activated by the user or an assistant. The separate switch concept/means can also enable individuals with disabilities to use other parts of their body to operate the camera. Using adaptive technology, any reliable movement can be used as a trigger for the camera.

Abstract: A picture pole system supports and protects a camera, typically a high resolution digital camera, at a height above the user. A cord may run from a trigger on a camera mounting frame along an extension pole to the user. The cord may permit the user, at one end of the pole, to take a picture with the camera, which is disposed at the other end of the pole. A focusing/stabilizing device may be attached to the pole near the camera. The focusing/stabilizing device may be placed against a subject to be photographed to provide a uniform focal length when taking pictures of multiple subjects, such as name plate data and/or manufacturer tag data in a chemical plant or refining industry.

Abstract: A portable material exhibiting apparatus comprises a base assembly having a pivoting base, the pivoting base being disposed on one side of the base assembly; a retractable rod assembly having one end pivoting to the pivoting base; and an image capturing module having one end pivoting to the other end of the retractable rod assembly. Therefore, when carrying the portable material exhibiting apparatus, the image capturing module may rotate to be parallel with the retractable rod assembly. The retractable rod assembly may shorten its length and rotate to be parallel with the base assembly. Via this arrangement, the spaced occupied by the portable material exhibiting apparatus is reduced greatly.

Abstract: A device having a support in the form of a base plate for being fixed to a camera such as with the receptacle for a tripod in the base of the camera, a slotted tube extending from the support for holding a spring loaded plunger rod and an actuator pin extending through the plunger rod and through opposing slots in the slotted tube. The plunger is moved by a retractable line from a remote position to cause movement of the actuator pin to actuate the shutter release of the camera.

Abstract: An electronic device includes an operation member which is arranged within a range where a particular finger of right hand gripping the electronic device in a vertical orientation reaches and in which assigned functions can be customized, a storage unit adapted to store information on a first function and a second function which are set in the operation member as the assigned functions, an orientation information obtaining unit adapted to obtain information on an orientation related to the electronic device, a function assignment control unit adapted to assign the first function to the operation member when it is determined based on the information on the orientation that the electronic device is in a horizontal orientation and assign the second function to the operation member when it is determined based on the information on the orientation that the electronic device is in the vertical orientation.

Abstract: An image pickup apparatus comprises an image pickup unit for photographing an object and generating image data, and a frame forming an outline of the image pickup apparatus, wherein spaces are formed between the image pickup unit and the frame to allow an operator grasp inner planes of the frame.

Abstract: A camera manipulation device comprising a plate having a top surface, a mounting element for securing a camera to the top surface of the plate, a handle for a user to hold the camera manipulation device and two or more connector elements for connecting the handle to the mounting plate, wherein each of said connector elements comprises at least one of a first and second pivot member.

Abstract: A portable camera actuation system is disclosed that may be used for taking self-portraits. The system includes an extendable handle assembly that may be held by a user at a first end thereof, and a base unit coupled to a second end of said extendable handle assembly. The base unit is for receiving a camera mounted thereon. The system also includes a remote shutter transmitter unit for providing a wireless shutter signal, and a remote wireless signal receiver unit. The remote shutter transmitter unit is provided at a location that is remote from the camera. The wireless shutter signal receiver unit is coupled to the base unit and is for providing actuation of an external shutter button on the camera responsive to the wireless shutter signal.

Abstract: A portable, handheld battery-operated camera system is claimed. The camera is positioned atop a handle with a grip and comprises a finger-operated trigger for starting or stopping camera operation. The handle comprises a substantially hollow interior and a bottom concavity which detachably receives a rechargeable battery for powering the camera.

Abstract: A support for a camcorder includes a platform connectable to a camcorder and a gripping handle attached via a multi-directional joint to the platform. The handle includes a head portion close to the multidirectional joint and is segmented along its major axis so as to define at least three pivotably connected leg portions, so as to enable the opening of the leg portions to form a mini-tripod for stationary support of the platform. The support further includes a stabilizer arm having a first end associated to the platform, an opposite second end to which a balancing, stabilizing weight is attached. The arm is provided with a joint enabling the pivoting of the second end of the arm between a first free-floating stabilizing position of the platform and a second position wherein the second end of the arm is suitable to rest on a shoulder-chest area of a camcorder operator.

Abstract: A stand for a camera device, the stand comprising an attachment element which is detachably fastened to the camera device and at least one support element which is displaceably connected to the attachment element. The support element is displaceable between at least two positions, a “storage” position where the at least one support element essentially lies up against an outer surface of the camera device and an “active” position where the at least one support element is displaced away from the outer surface of the camera device in order to provide a support for supporting the camera device in a steady orientation on a surface. The attachment element and the supporting element are furthermore arranged such that the attachment element remains fastened to the camera device during the displacement of the supporting element between its storage position and its active position. In this way, a stand is provided which may be very easy and convenient for the user to use.

Abstract: Prior to this invention there has been no hand held device using a lightweight camera to mimic the services of a photographer for the purpose of an individual to video oneself and one's surroundings. The Hand Held Self Video Device is hand-held and therefore follows the user, keeping the user in view as he or she moves about. It consists of an extendable pole with a camera mount on one end and a remote control on the hand held other end. The camera mount is angled so that the pole and users hand is just outside of the camera's field of view. The user is able to film his or her self with a camera that is several feet away. This gives the impression that there is another person operating the moving camera. Ideal for high, low and tilted camera angles too.

Abstract: A universal mounting assembly for quick mounting of an object to a stand device. The mounting assembly includes a body having a support surface, a front face and an opposed mounting surface configured to mount to the support stand. The front face intersects the support surface and defines an opening into a receiving socket of the body. The body further defines an elongated slot extending along and into the receiving socket from the support surface. The elongated slot having a transverse width dimension smaller than that of the receiving socket, although it is suitable to receive a transverse width dimension of the button device neck portion. The receiving socket is formed and dimensioned for sliding receipt of the transverse width dimension of the head portion therein as the neck portion simultaneously slides along the elongated slot to a dock position. The mounting assembly further includes a resilient retaining arm cantilever disposed in the receiving socket.

Abstract: A video camera is disclosed which can make photographing without any compulsion. A rotary grip is provided on a side face of a camera body so as to be rotatable relative to the camera body, the camera body having an image pickup device, a camera lens and a circuit board of various circuits. A hand strap is attached to the rotary grip. For carrying the video camera, the fingers other than the thumb of one hand are inserted between the rotary grip and the hand strap so that the tips thereof are caught on a peripheral surface of the rotary grip. A liquid crystal display monitor and an operating unit are integral with the peripheral surface of the rotary grip, and when the rotary grip is rotated relative to the camera body unit, the hand strap, as well as the liquid crystal display monitor and the operating unit, also rotate.

Abstract: A portable lighting system for performing photography in poor light situations. The lighting system is composed of a rigid frame consisting of a base portion (124A) for mounting a camera (36) and a raised portion (124B) that uses a ball-joint (79) and a rigid arm (120) to support a spotlight (121) and a flash unit (122). A controlling device (31) for the spotlight is positioned above a pistol grip (91) on the raised portion (124B). The controlling device is activated by a trigger (20) and can be adjusted to synchronize the lighting system with the camera shutter so that the lighting system can not interfere or adversely effect the photographic results.

Abstract: A lock device is provided for locking an accessory-grip to a camera body. A lock lever is movably supported by a housing. The lock lever is moved and can be stopped at a lock position, a partial release position, and a complete release position. First and second connecting members are movably supported by the housing, and can be displaced in association with the lock lever. When the lock lever is positioned at the lock position, the first and second connecting members are engaged with the camera body. When the lock lever is positioned at the partial release position, the first connecting member is released from the camera body and the second connecting member maintains the engaged state.

Abstract: A stabilizing platform for attachment to the bottom of the camcorder to steady the filming of subjects with the use of fiber optics positioned along the body of the camcorder to transmit remote control infrared signals to an infrared receiving port on the camcorder. The platform includes a two piece bar that is held together with a locking bolt and includes a mounting screw which attaches the camcorder to the top of the platform and also attaches a handle below the platform. The handle has a locking pin to prevent the handle from rotating with respect to the platform. A remote control is attached to the handle. The remote control also can be imbedded into the handle so that the infrared signal can go from the handle directly into the fiber optics thus giving the user instant control of the signal, and improve the quality of the picture. The fiber optic fibers can be attached along a surface of the platform or along the surface of the camcorder by tape or an adhesive.

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

Abstract: A 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 remote camera positioning system provides a camera on a positioner, such as an elongated boom, out of the operator's reach. The positioner provides an operator interface, such as grips and optionally a body harness, to enable the operator to support, control and maneuver the position of the camera. A monitor for displaying images generated by the camera is mounted to the operator to enable the operator to view and control the camera images in a self-contained manner.

Abstract: A motion picture camera head tie-down device and method for securing a motion picture camera head to a camera mount, such as the Mitchell mount. The camera head tie-down device includes a first disk concentrically attached to a second disk. The first disk is contoured to receive a motion picture camera head and the second disk has a plurality of radially extending grooves. A rotatable knob having a spiral thread on a flat surface is positioned such that the spiral thread engages with threads on retractable jaws that are mounted in the grooves of the second disk. A threaded screw passes through the central bores of the first disk, the second disk, and the knob and into a tapped hole in the motion picture camera head. To secure the camera head to the camera mount, the knob is rotated to extend the jaws for engagement with the camera mount.

Abstract: A camera system including a camera, and an accessory to be secured to the camera by means of a screw provided to an upper surface of the accessory and a threaded hole formed on a bottom surface of the camera. At least first and second circuits are respectively provided in the camera and the accessory. First and second connectors, each of which are electrically connected to the first circuit, are provided on the bottom surface of the camera. The first and second connectors arranged at opposite portions, with respect to the threaded holes on the bottom surface of the camera. Further, third and fourth connectors to be respectively connected to the first and second connectors are provided on the upper surface of the accessory. Each of the third and fourth connectors, which are electrically connected to the second circuit, are arranged at portions corresponding to the first and second connectors.

Abstract: A camera holder, comprising a mast having a proximal end and a distal end, for supporting a camera having a shutter near the distal end. A camera mounting head is located near the distal end, having an upper plate and a lower plate for mounting the camera therebetween. The camera mounting head is attached to the mast with an arm. The arm is adjustable to vary the relative angle of the mast and camera mounting head, and relative distance therebetween. The mast may vary in length by adding additional tubular mast sections. An actuator assembly is located on the upper plate, having a plunger for engaging the shutter of the camera, an actuating lever pivotable on a fulcrum, and wherein an actuation cable is attached to the actuating lever on an opposite side of the fulcrum from the actuating plunger. The actuation cable extends from the proximal end toward the distal end for allowing remote operation of the camera when a user holds the camera holder at the proximal end.

Abstract: A frame assembly for supporting a portable video or other camera. The assembly comprises a rigid frame, having a front, and a rear. A pair of shoulder rests are connected to the frame and constructed to rest on the shoulders of an operator. A pair of hand grips are connected to the front of the frame. A camera mount is disposed on the front of the frame for releaseably holding the video camera. Lastly, an adjustable counterweight member is connected to the rear of the frame, for balancing the center of gravity of the frame substantially over the shoulders of the wearer, when the camera is held by the mount. The camera mount and counterweight are preferably relatively slideably adjustable to balance the center of gravity of the frame assembly over the shoulders of the operator. In one embodiment, the counterweight is replaced by a gyroscope member of equal weight in order to retain static balance and imparts added dynamic stability to the frame assembly.

Abstract: A camera comprising a spindle for supporting an image recording disk to be rotated about a center axis, and a handgrip which is to be hand held at an angular position, is characterized in that the handgrip is supported for rotation about the center axis to vary the angular position at which the handgrip is hand held.

Abstract: A frame assembly for supporting a portable video or other camera. The assembly comprises a rigid frame, having a front, and a rear. A pair of shoulder rests are connected to the frame and constructed to rest on the shoulders of an operator. A pair of hand grips are connected to the front of the frame. A camera mount is disposed on the front of the frame for releaseably holding the video camera. Lastly, an adjustable counterweight member is connected to the rear of the frame, for balancing the center of gravity of the frame substantially over the shoulders of the wearer, when the camera is held by the mount. The camera mount and counterweight are preferably relatively slideably adjustable to balance the center of gravity of the frame assembly over the shoulders of the operator.

Abstract: The quick-clamping locking plate for a video or film camera has a dovetail guide and straight guide edges approaching one another conically in the direction of the front end of the plate, and a locking arrangement for locking an insert part fastened to the camera in the dovetail guide. In the region of one guide edge of the dovetail guide, one abutment region of the said dovetail guide is constructed as a rocker which is pivotable about an axis perpendicular to the floor of the dovetail guide and has a guide edge which projects into the inner region of the dovetail guide, slightly above the rest of the guide edge on this side of the said dovetail guide. A pressure piece of the locking arrangement is situated behind the dovetail guide and is guided along the central longitudinal axis of the said dovetail guide.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a camera which comprises a camera unit including a housing with a front face and a bottom. A lens assembly is located within the housing and extends to the front face of the housing. A shutter is located within the housing. The camera further comprises a mirror member covering substantially the entire front face of the housing and being discontinued where the lens extends to the front face. The mirror member is marked with at least two lines that would intersect at the center of the lens. A remote shutter release mechanism is provided connected with the camera unit. At least one supporting arm is mounted to the housing and extending therefrom to a remote end for the user to hold. The supporting arm preferably has a length greater than two feet. Therefore, the user(s) can hold the camera away from himself (themselves), locate himself (themselves) in the mirror and use the remote shutter release mechanism to take portrait type pictures.

Abstract: A video camera support device that lessons the dependence on the individual skill and stamina of the operator in producing quality video recordings. The invention overcomes the problems of the prior art, by providing that all operator movements are isolated from the camera. The device includes a pivoting joint between a handle and the camera that allows the camera to tilt freely about the handle, except the pivoting joint does not allow for free rotation of the camera. The handle has a bearing member coupled to a panning control that turns the pivoting joint as a unit and the camera. Further, the device has a balancing assembly that includes struts that may be positioned outside the zone of the plane containing the handle and the camera to improve roll stability. A monitor is mounted for improved visibility to the operator, and a monopod pole may be used to support the weight of the device or to raise it overhead.