Adjustable Support Patents (Class 396/428)
  • Patent number: 8644701
    Abstract: “A camera platform for three dimensional photography comprises a first support wall having an inner surface, an outer surface and a fastening end, and a second support wall having an inner surface, an outer surface and a fastening end. The first and second support walls are connected substantially at right angles to each. The inner surface of the first support wall and the inner surface of the second support wall define a quadrant. A fixed camera connector for a first camera is formed on the outer surface of the first support wall, and an adjustable camera connector for a second camera is formed on the outer surface of the second support wall. A beam splitter support frame outside the quadrant between the outer surface of the first support wall and the outer surface of the second support wall supports a beam splitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Truality, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen Pizzo, Hector Ortega
  • Patent number: 8636429
    Abstract: An easily adjustable tripod includes a main body, legs, a positioning piece, and a spring. The main body includes an adjustable connection part having protruding parts that function as gear teeth. Each leg includes a connector having two protruding side walls. The connector and the adjustable connection part are coupled with mounting screws. The positioning piece is coupled to the connector between the two protruding walls and meshes with the protruding parts on the adjustable connection part. The opening angle of the legs can be easily adjusted and fixed using the positioning piece and the adjustable connection part. The spring and the positioning piece are installed to form an organic whole, so the positioning piece can be conveniently adjusted without changing the opening angle after fixation. It is easy to close and fold the tripod because of the applied force of the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Inventor: Qingyuan Chen
  • Publication number: 20140023358
    Abstract: A lifting unit for pipe inspection systems for lifting a head unit, comprising a base support with a connection module for connection to a connection unit of a carriage, a lifting system with at least one lifting arm and a drive unit for deflecting the lifting arm relative to the base support via a rotation axis, as well as a head unit with a connection module for connection of inspection units, in particular cameras and illumination systems, wherein connectors of the carriage are at least partially lead to the connection module of the head unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2013
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Applicant: iPEK International GmbH
    Inventors: Christian James DÜMIG, Alexander KREUTZER
  • Publication number: 20140023357
    Abstract: An embodiment of the invention is a camera having a housing, a camera lens disposed at an end of the housing, a box camera mounting part provided on the housing to mount the camera in a box camera configuration, and a dome camera mounting part provided at a front end of the housing to mount the camera in a dome camera configuration. Providing the box and dome camera mounting parts on the housing of the camera enables mounting of the camera in box and dome camera configurations, and allows the user to delay the decision of choosing which configuration, thereby reducing the complexity of engineering design and installation. Furthermore, inclusion of both mounting parts facilitates purchasing and stocking only one configuration of camera, thereby simplifying management of the stocked parts and reducing costs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Inventors: Vincent Wong, Junwei Geng
  • Patent number: 8628258
    Abstract: A holder for an optical device for changing the orientation of the optical device, such as for photographic, video or film cameras, having a first component having a first pivot axis for connecting to a tripod and a second component having a second pivot axis for connecting to the optical device, wherein the two pivot axes extend transversely with respect to each other and can each be adjusted in a mutually independent manner, wherein the first pivot axis is arranged in the first component and the second pivot axis is likewise arranged in the first component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Inventor: Philippe Vogt
  • Publication number: 20140010525
    Abstract: A camera swing head includes a hub having a hole ring including a plurality of radially spaced apart holes. A swing plate is rotatably attached to the hub. An indexing and locking assembly allows the swing to be quickly and easily rotated to a desired position and then locked into place. The indexing and locking assembly may include a lever pivotally attached to the swing plate, and a plunger pivotally attached to a front end of the lever. Pivoting movement of the lever may move the plunger linearly on a radial axis intersecting a center of the hub. A release pin is movable from, a first position, wherein the release pin causes the plunger to be held out from engagement to with one of the radially spaced apart holes, to a second position, wherein the plunger is movable into engagement with one of the radially spaced apart holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2012
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Applicant: CHAPMAN/LEONARD STUDIO EQUIPMENT, INC.
    Inventor: Leonard T. Chapman
  • Patent number: 8622637
    Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments of an image acquisition apparatus with an extendable arm on which an image sensor is located and is easily manipulated to reach hard-to-reach places and transmit captured images to the user. In one embodiment, the combination of a telescopic sensor mount and an image sensor can be an integral part of or an add-on accessory for cell phones, cameras, iPads, iPods, etc. In another embodiment the apparatus may replace car radio antennas to serve as observation beacons in crowded and congested traffic. In different embodiments the orientation of the image sensor on its mount may be manually or remotely adjustable, while the image data gathered by the image sensor may be transmitted to the user by wire, wirelessly, or optically. In various embodiments a microphone and/or a flash may also be installed on the extendable mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Kambiz M. Roshanravan
  • Publication number: 20140003802
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an elongated camera support which may extend between the hand of the user and the camera, and more particularly to such a camera support wherein a rubber-like bumper is provided adjacent the back of the camera to permit the user of the camera to place the camera against a wall or the like for support when taking pictures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventor: Wayne G. Fromm
  • Patent number: 8616789
    Abstract: A novel adjustable camera mount is provided with both threaded and clamping attachment mechanisms, and joints providing 360° of rotation on either side of an articulated rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventor: Steve Hutchison
  • Publication number: 20130343743
    Abstract: A panorama photography PTZ for mobile communications devices has a rotary table at a base, and a flipping element provided on one side of the rotary table and having a fixing part, a first driving element to horizontally rotate the rotary table with respect to the base rotation, a second driving element to rotate the flipping element with respect to the rotary, a control unit electrically connecting to the first driving element and the second driving device, thereby controlling the horizontal rotation of the rotary table and the flipping of the flipping element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventor: Cheng-Fong YEN
  • Publication number: 20130336644
    Abstract: In a method of controlling a gaze direction of a camera, the camera is placed on a top surface of a substrate that is pivotally coupled to a frame, wherein a movement arm depends downwardly from the substrate. The movement arm is moved with two spaced apart amplified piezoelectric ceramic stack actuators that are affixed to the frame and coupled to the movement arm by deforming the amplified piezoelectric ceramic stack actuators as a result of applying a voltage thereto, thereby changing an angular orientation of the substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventors: Joshua Andrew Schultz, Jun Ueda
  • Publication number: 20130336645
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventor: Leonard T. Chapman
  • Patent number: 8602662
    Abstract: A camera and accessories clamping mount that includes an assembly of ball and socket members rotatably and moveably interconnectable having an anterior end and a posterior end, a top connector disposed atop the anterior end and a bottom connector disposed on the posterior end, wherein the bottom connector is releasably attachable to a clamp, said clamp attachable to an extant surface, and an extant camera, or other accessory device having a ¼-20? female thread mount, is releasably attachable to the top connector, whereby said camera or other accessory device is supportable and positionable through a range of positions by means of the assembly of ball and socket members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventor: John Mans
  • Patent number: 8596892
    Abstract: A pan and tilt head for supporting a payload such as a TV, video or motion picture camera comprising a base and a tiltable support including a platform for receiving a payload pivotally mounted on the base to tilt about a horizontal axis to either side of a neutral position in which the platform is generally horizontal. A balancing mechanism for the platform includes an adjustable spring mechanism mounted on the base to enable a pre-load in the spring mechanism to be varied and means coupling the tilting support to the spring mechanism. Adjustable mounting for one end of the spring mechanism includes an upright post mounted on the base and having rotary height adjustment. A manually operable rotary thumb wheel is mounted on the base for rotation about an upright axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: The Vitec Group PLC
    Inventors: Andrew Derek Murrow, Jolyon Francis Torbitt
  • Patent number: 8584995
    Abstract: A compact and portable, multi-function camera support device. The modular and variable plurality of components provide alteration of the device's configuration, build size and structural attachment to respond to locations physicality and user requirements. A self-supporting device that can be orientated and attached in various positions upon any structure, vehicle or terrain. Inter-changeable linear frame members and complementary hub profile engagement plate inserts provide the structure and engagement of mounting collar combinations that can linearly re-position and circumferentially rotate. Collars and detachable articulating limbs are employed singularly or paired to connect; equipment mounting plates, limb sets, attachments or wheel sets. Enabling transformation from a single axis vertical bracket to a vehicle mount, scaffold mount, wheeled dolly mount, or rail track support for camera movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Sean Anthony Joseph Russell
    Inventor: Sean Anthony Joseph Russell
  • Patent number: 8585302
    Abstract: A camera device includes a camera body including a camera housing which is formed into a substantially spherical shape, a bracket fixable to a vehicle, and a socket provided on the bracket into which a spherical portion of the camera housing is fittable. The camera body includes an imaging lens which is exposed from the socket. The spherical portion of the camera housing is fitted into the socket so that the imaging lens has an optical axis a direction of which is adjustable in a vertical direction and in a right-left direction relative to the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Beat-Sonic Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tsutomu Totani
  • Patent number: 8579525
    Abstract: A stop valve for a camera support such as a telescoping camera crane may include a valve pin engagable onto a valve seat, with a pin plate attached to the valve pin. A spring urges the valve pin in a first direction, which may be an opening direction or a closing direction. First and second dampener pins in first and second cylinders are attached to the pin plate. A closed loop fluid filled flow path connects the first and second cylinders. First and second check valves may be used to control flow in the flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Chapman/Leonard Studio Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Leonard T. Chapman, Robert Stawinski
  • Publication number: 20130294758
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device comprising a camera unit (40) which is used to detect images of the outer area (5) of a motor vehicle. Said device comprises a drive (50) which is used to move the camera unit (40) between an idle position (3) and an active position (4) and to move a protection element (30) between a closed position (1) and an open position (2). When the protection element (30) is in the closed position (1), the camera unit (40) is in the idle position (3) behind the protection element (30) making it inaccessible from the exterior, and when the protection element (30) is in the open position (2), the camera unit (40) is in the active position (4) for detecting images.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: HUF HULSBECK & FURST GMBH & CO.
    Inventor: Joachim Barthel
  • Publication number: 20130294759
    Abstract: An imaging apparatus (100) includes an outer shell (1) including a first case (11) and a second case (12) joined to the first case (11) and formed with a spherical inner surface, a camera body (2) arranged inside the outer shell (1) and configured to move relative to the outer shell (1), a first driver (26A) and a second driver (26B) provided in the camera body (2) and configured to drive the camera body (2) with the first and second drivers (26A, 26B) contacting an inner surface of the outer shell (1), and a drive controller (62) configured to control the first and second drivers (26A, 26B) such that the first driver (26A) contacts only the first case (11) and that the second driver (26B) contacts only the second case (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventor: Hironori HONSHO
  • Publication number: 20130287386
    Abstract: Provided herein is a monopod or device for supporting a photographic instrument or accessory, such as a camera. The monopod or device comprises extendable members, e.g., an extendable mounting member with a mounting assembly and an extendable middle member with a threadably engagable, rotatable locking mechanism, a base member and an extension mechanism. The locking mechanism is configured to quickly lock the extendable members at an extended length or to collapse the same. The extension mechanism is disposed within the extendable and base members and secured independently to the same. This configuration enables a single smooth release with extending motion of the locking mechanism to telescopically extend or, conversely, collapse the extendable member portions of the monopod device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventor: Ye Xu
  • Patent number: 8568042
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a camera support device. The camera support device includes a mounting assembly adapted to releasably mount a camera. The camera support device further includes at least one tuning element in communication with the mounting assembly, the tuning element being adjustable so as to permit tuning of a natural frequency of the mounting assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Gregory Brueckner, Matthew Thomas Valente
  • Patent number: 8568041
    Abstract: A support (1; 100) for videophotographic equipment (2; 200), comprises a plate (3; 3?) fixable by suitable fixing means (5; 5?) to an item of video-photographic equipment (2; 200) to be supported, support elements (7; 7?) hinged on said plate (3; 3?) by means of respective hinge means (8; 8?) so as to be moved between a closed position (Y) in which said support elements (7; 7?) are folded onto said plate (3; 3?) and at least one open position (Z) in which said support elements (7; 7?) are opened out from said plate (3; 3?) to support the latter, said hinge means (8; 8?) comprise a resilient element (20; 20?) that is housed in a receiving seat (22; 22?) defined in said plate (3; 3?) and exerts on hinge portions (14, 15; 14?, 15?) of said support elements (7; 7?) a thrust force which thrusts said hinge portions (14, 15; 14?, 15?) against walls (23; 23?) of said seat (22; 22?) to brake the rotation of said support elements (7; 7?) in relation to said plate (3; 3?), the resilient element comprises at least one sp
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Lino Manfrotto & Co. S.p.A.
    Inventor: Enrico Cherubin
  • Patent number: 8567952
    Abstract: The apparatus comprises a vest 10 worn by a user 1 and having on its shoulders pivots 12 for an telescoping boom 20. A camera 38 is mounted on a standard mount 32 on a crossmember extending between side members 16 of the boom. A counterweight 28 provides balance to produce quasi-neutral positioning of the boom and camera and thus its ready pivoting by the user. Pistol grips 16, 18 provide for extension of the boom and panning/tilting of the camera. A monitor screen 36 allows the user to view the picture seen by the camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Inventor: Peter John Taylor
  • Publication number: 20130279896
    Abstract: A panoramic device includes a base member and a clamp member rotatably interconnected within a single plane of rotation with the base that includes a first rotatable knob to selectively inhibit the rotation of the clamp member with respect to the base. The upper surface includes a central region that is at a different elevation than another portion of the upper surface. The clamp includes a pair of opposed surfaces suitable to detachably secure a camera thereto. The one of the opposed surfaces is maintained in a fixed relationship with respect to the clamp member. The other one of the opposed surfaces is in a movable relationship with respect to the clamp member using a second rotatable knob. The first knob and the second knob are rotatably connected with respect to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: Joseph M. JOHNSON
  • Patent number: 8561952
    Abstract: A column attachment having an abutment, a platform, a tension member, and a securing element that are used to provide a stable support for a device. The tension member secures the platform to the abutment. The securing portion is able to slide along a slot defined in the platform. The securing portion is able to attach to devices, like total stations, and secure them to the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Inventor: Mark Pfeiler
  • Patent number: 8559802
    Abstract: A system and method for isolating the motion of a camera relative to a base structure is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system may generally include a plurality of bearing pucks coupled to the base structure. Each of the bearing pucks may be configured to receive and expel a pressurized fluid. In addition, the system may include a camera support coupled to the camera. The camera support may include at least one bearing member defining a spherical surface. The bearing member may be positioned adjacent to the bearing pucks such that the pressurized fluid forms a fluid layer between the spherical surface and the bearing pucks. The fluid layer may suspend the bearing member relative to the bearing pucks such that the camera support is rotationally isolated from the base structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Iain Richard Tyrone McClatchie, Ian Rickard Muldoon
  • Patent number: 8550632
    Abstract: A camera crane mobile base has a drive motor assembly at each corner of a chassis. The drive motor assemblies may have an electric motor linked to an axle via gearing, and one or more wheels attached to the axle. The electric motors may be separately controlled to propel and steer the mobile base. A column is pivotally attached to the chassis and pivotal in lateral and longitudinal directions via actuators. The drive motor assemblies may be removed from the chassis for storage or transport. With the drive motor assemblies installed, the mobile base is highly stable and maneuverable. With the drive motor assemblies removed, the chassis is narrow enough to fit through a typical doorway. Steering systems may be linked to the drive motor assemblies at the front and/or rear of the chassis, to allow steering control of the mobile base in corrective, crab and/or round steering modes. The chassis may optionally have an upward curvature from either end towards the center location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Chapman/Leonard Studio Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Leonard T. Chapman
  • Publication number: 20130259463
    Abstract: A camera slider/crane comprising a rail for driving a camera dolly coupled with a counterbalance; an arm for changing the camera slider/crane into a crane; a mounting unit for positioning the rail in a vertical position; a tripod head; and two feet for leveling the rail when the rail is used in horizontal position and one of the feet securing the rail when the rail is used in vertical position. The tripod head is rotatable and detachably connected to a tripod. The rail is detachably and pivotably connected to the tripod head. The arm includes a first and a second arm members with the first arm member detachably and movably connected to the tripod head while the tiltable part of the camera dolly is unlocked and tiltable and the second arm member fixedly and detachably connected to a tiltable part of the camera dolly while a locking system is disabled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventor: Janusz Dybowski
  • Publication number: 20130259462
    Abstract: Example embodiments disclosed herein relate to adjusting an angle of a camera included in display unit that connects to a base unit. The display unit may include a camera mount to house the camera. The camera mount is to adjust a viewing angle of the camera relative to the display unit in response to a change of a hinge angle between the display unit and the base unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: Cheng-Yi Yang, Hai-Lung Hung
  • Patent number: 8548314
    Abstract: Embodiments include an assembly comprising: (a) a camera support structure comprising: a masthead disposed on the distal end of a mast wherein the masthead is configured to receive an imaging element; where a proximal end of the mast rotatably engaging an azimuth-elevation joint assembly wherein the azimuth-elevation joint assembly comprises a first angular actuator of a first rotational degree-of-freedom and a second angular actuator of a second rotational degree of freedom; and (b) a camera support structure housing comprising an aperture and a hatch wherein the hatch is resiliently biased to close the aperture; and wherein the camera support structure is configured to overcome the hatch resilient bias by at least one of: the release of a pin restraining a loaded spring and a rotational actuation of the mast via at least one of the first angular actuator and the second angular actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: AeroVironment, Inc.
    Inventors: John Peter Zwaan, Makoto Ueno, Marc L. Schmalzel, Christopher E. Fisher
  • Publication number: 20130251358
    Abstract: An attachment assembly for attaching a camera phone to a weapon scope is provided. The attachment assembly includes a camera phone mount having at least one camera phone clamp for the selective retention of a camera phone in the camera phone mount, the camera phone mount rotatably and slidably coupled to a mount bracket. A scope mount assembly is coupled to a portion of a weapon scope, the scope mount assembly being slidably received by a portion of the mount bracket, wherein the camera phone mount is rotatable between a first position and a second position, wherein the first position has a camera lens of the camera phone in alignment the view through the scope, and the second position has the camera lens of the camera phone outside of alignment from the view through the scope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventors: Benjamin C. Kuehl, Cody Dulmes, James Walsh
  • Patent number: 8540438
    Abstract: Systems and methods for positioning a camera crane include maintaining the position of a camera head in accordance with the inclination and rate of change of inclination of the arm of the crane. The inclination and rate of change are detected by an inclination detector and an angular detector respectively. The camera head may be positioned in accordance with the inclination as detected by the inclination detector. The rate of changing the position of the camera head may be in accordance with the rate of change detected by the angular detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: CamMate Systems. Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew J. Cronin, Pablo Tovar, Michael Kay Pack, Ron K. Keys, Richard A. Laitinen
  • Patent number: 8534934
    Abstract: The present invention is a dynamically balanced, lightweight multifunctional, camera stabilization device that allows a film or digital video camera to be flown out of arms reach of the operator and maintain orientation toward the subject matter, while allowing the operator smooth control of rotation or pan of the camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: Peter L. Carney
  • Patent number: 8534933
    Abstract: A first system for mounting a camera to an arm is disclosed. Specifically, the first system comprises a bracket system, an arm mount, and a hinge system. Said bracket system is capable of supporting a camera. Said hinge system comprises a clasping device having a first portion and a second portion. Said hinge system connects said bracket system and said arm mount, and said first portion and said second portion of said clasping device are capable of selectively releasing and reattaching to one another and thereby release and reattach said bracket system and said arm mount. Further, a second system for mounting a camera to an arm is disclosed. Specifically, the second system comprises a bracket system, an arm mount, and a hinge system having a bending point. Said bracket system is capable of supporting a camera. Said hinge system connects said bracket system and said arm mount. Said hinge system comprises a flexible portion comprising a flexible material. Said bending point is in said flexible portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: Brent Wayne Sherwood
  • Publication number: 20130236167
    Abstract: Described herein is an elevated system that can be used for various purposes including capturing images or video at an elevated height. In one embodiment, the elevated system includes support members and a mechanism (e.g., gimbal, pivot) that is coupled to at least one support member. The mechanism provides a range of motion along independent axes. An elongated member is coupled to the mechanism. The mechanism is capable of providing movement of the elongated member with a range of motion of three hundred and sixty degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Inventor: Bert Gerard Tardieu
  • Patent number: 8526802
    Abstract: An image capture system that is capable of capturing images of both small and large target objects includes a collapsible frame and at least one image capture device. The frame is free-standing and adapted to support the image capture device over a generally flat surface, on which a target object can also be supported. The image capture device can be activated to capture an image of the target object for subsequent viewing, storage, retrieval, processing, etc. The collapsible frame is constructed of a plurality of structural components adjustably connected together in a unique configuration that enables the entire frame to be transformed between a stored configuration when not in use, and a deployed configuration during use. The stored configuration is substantially more compact than the deployed configuration, which allows the frame to be easily transported between different locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventor: Alex Starns
  • Patent number: 8523462
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a ball turret assembly for supporting a camera includes a first shaft rotatable about a first axis relative to a first fixed point, the first shaft having an axially-extending interior region in communication with an exterior of the first shaft by way of a first exit port. A first guide disposed at least partially circumferentially on the first shaft proximally to the first exit port is provided, and a cable extends along the interior region of the first shaft and exits the first shaft at the first exit port, the cable looping at least partially around the first shaft and affixed at the first fixed point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Aerovironment, Inc.
    Inventor: Manolis Pavlos Dimotakis
  • Publication number: 20130222684
    Abstract: A 360 degree camera imaging system comprising a first horizontal boom having a first end, a second end, and a middle section; a second horizontal boom having a first end and a second end; a first vertical arm having a first end and a second end; a second vertical arm having a first end and a second end; and a mounting bracket. The first horizontal boom is connected to the first end of the second horizontal boom by a first rotatable pivot proximate the middle section of the first horizontal boom, and the second end of the second horizontal boom is connected to the mounting bracket. The first end of the first vertical arm is affixed to the first end of the first horizontal boom, and the first end of the second vertical arm is affixed to the second end of the first horizontal boom. A camera is mounted to the first vertical arm, and a backdrop is mounted to the second vertical arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: IMPLICITCARE, LLC
    Inventor: IMPLICITCARE, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130209085
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventors: Dennis Wood, Tyler J.F. Bragnalo
  • Patent number: 8506182
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Patrick Campbell
  • Patent number: 8506180
    Abstract: A support system used to orient and utilize equipment remotely positioned from an operator and supported in a stabilized manner. The support system includes a balance pole with a master end and a slave end attached to a master sled and slave sled, respectively. The system includes a mechanism to replicate the motion at the master sled at the slave sled. The replication mechanism includes a series of pulleys and arced components coordinated with lines that pass through an inner ring of a central gimbal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Inventor: Garrett W. Brown
  • Publication number: 20130183028
    Abstract: In a telescoping camera crane arm, a second section is telescopically extendible into and out of the first section. The second section divided into a front segment attached to a back segment by a connector, to allow the front segment to be removed from the back segment. An adapter is attachable to the front end of the first section. A camera support attachable to the adapter and to the front end of the front segment. To configure the crane for increased maximum payload, the front segment is removed from the back segment. The adapter is attached to the front end of the front section, and the camera support is attached to the adapter, so that the camera support is then supported directly by the first section. A spring balancing system compensates for out-of-balance forces associated with changes in the elevation angle of the crane arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Inventor: Leonard T. Chapman
  • Patent number: 8485740
    Abstract: A remote control and/or gyrostabilized camera head has first and second roll forks attached to a pan frame. Each roll fork has a front roll arm and a back roll arm. A circular roll track segment may be provided on each roll arm. 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 frame is rotatably supported between the first and second motor supports. A tilt motor on or in the second motor support rotates the 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: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Chapman/Leonard Studio Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Leonard T. Chapman
  • Patent number: 8480318
    Abstract: A driving force transmitting device for driving a driven unit includes a first driving unit, a second driving unit, a driving force-transmitted portion which is attached to the driven unit and to which driving forces of the first and second driving units are transmitted, and a controlling unit for separately controlling the first and second driving units, wherein driving force transmitting portions of the first and second driving units transmit the driving forces to the driving force-transmitted portion at its different positions, and wherein when the driven unit being driven is to be stopped, the controlling unit causes the first driving unit to drive in a direction reverse to a driving direction while the second driving unit continues to drive, then causes the first and second driving units to stop in a state in which the driving forces of the first and second driving units are balanced with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Akira Yokoyama
  • Publication number: 20130170823
    Abstract: The present invention relates to electronic devices of a particular structure, and to a method and apparatus for engaging and holding such devices with the user's person, clothing, equipment or vehicle. The apparatus includes a bracket that engages with the electronic device and a cover that provides protection to the electronic device and a camera lens augmentation element. Additional elements provide engagement between flat or cylindrical surfaces. The apparatus facilitates convenient carry, access and secure attachment of an electronic device during participation in a physical activity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Inventors: David Arien McDonald, Jonathan Alan Marks
  • Patent number: 8475059
    Abstract: An image capturing device includes a camera housing configured to house a set of electronic modules for generating a video stream from captured light. The camera housing includes a camera opening configured to let light enter the camera housing to be captured by the set of electronic modules. The webcam further includes a camera-housing base rotationally coupled to the camera housing, and includes a mounting base rotationally coupled to the camera-housing base. The camera housing is configured to rotate with respect to the camera-housing base to face the camera opening toward the mounting base or face the camera housing opening away from the mounting base. The webcam further includes a first hinge rotationally coupling the mounting base to the camera-housing base. With the camera opening facing toward the mounting base, the first hinge is configured such that the mounting base is foldable onto the camera opening to cover the camera opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Logitech Europe S.A.
    Inventors: Ladan Khamsepoor, Kenneth Ling, Allan Freas Velzy, Kun-Jui Liu, John Kiechel
  • Patent number: 8475060
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Chapman/Leonard Studio Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Leonard T. Chapman
  • Publication number: 20130163977
    Abstract: Novel tools and techniques are described for protecting camera components on a surface and/or within an internal portion of a portable electronic device. In one aspect, an electronic device might comprise a camera mount, which might comprise a camera barrel assembly configured to have a camera affixed thereto, the camera barrel assembly being rotatably coupled with one of a front panel, a rear panel, or a chassis of the electronic device. The camera mount may further comprise a set of cantilever springs affixed to one of the front panel, the rear panel, or the chassis and biased against the camera barrel assembly to provide rotational friction on the camera barrel assembly. The set of cantilever springs might have sufficient compliance to allow the camera to retract into a body of the portable electronic device upon encountering an external force, which may include an impact force or a dropping force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: Qwest Communications International Inc.
    Inventor: Qwest Communications International Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130163978
    Abstract: A support head (1) of the ball joint type for videophotographic apparatuses comprising: a first element (10) of a ball joint (5) provided with at least one spherical surface portion (11), from which protrudes a stem (15) to which the apparatuses are attachable, a second element (20) of said ball joint (5) configured in such a way that with respect thereto a panoramic axis (Z) of the head (1) is defined, coupled to said at least one spherical surface portion (11) in such a way that the first element (10) is movable with respect to the second element (20) between a first setting position in which the panoramic axis (Z) and a longitudinal axis (W) of the stem (15) are aligned and at least a second setting position in which the aforesaid axes (Z, W) are angularly spaced apart by an angle (A) greater than 90°, a stop (30) suitable for stopping the first element (10) in the second setting position, a travel limiting means (40, 50, 60, 70) selectively movable in order to stop the first element (10) in at least a thi
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: Lino Manfrotto + Co. S.p.A.
    Inventor: Abramo Carlesso
  • Patent number: 8469613
    Abstract: A support assembly for a camera having lens protruding from the camera includes (a) a hood having an opening to accommodate the protruding lens and a front end having a rim that lies on a single plane configured to rest snugly against a flat surface, the hood further includes a gimbaling collar around the opening to allow rotation of protruding lens around a symmetrical axis of the hood, so as to enable the camera to be positioned in any one of a number of positions that result in the protruding lens being pointed in one of a plurality of corresponding directions; (b) a base structure having a suction cup for attachment by suction on the flat surface; and (c) a connecting arm connecting the base structure to the hood.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Koozoo Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew Blough Sechrist