Adjustable Support Patents (Class 396/428)
  • Anti-glare camera hood with integrated movable lens
    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
  • PDT magnifier camera illumination
    Patent number: 8469534
    Abstract: A device that enlarges text and images to enable a low vision person to see the text and images includes a hollow structure including a top housing and a bottom housing that are connected to one another. A camera aperture is formed in the bottom housing and a transparent light guide lens is disposed in closing relation to the camera aperture so that all light entering the camera aperture must first pass through the light guide lens. A cavity formed in the light guide lens is bounded by walls that are positioned at a critical angle. Light-emitting diodes are positioned at critical locations about the periphery of the light guide lens to illuminate the object being viewed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Freedom Scientific, Inc.
    Inventors: Mike Hanney, Peter Iezzi, Todd Conard
  • Camera mounting assembly
    Patent number: 8465216
    Abstract: An apparatus for mounting a recording device onto a preexisting sex toy is provided. In one embodiment, the apparatus allows a camera mounting enclosure that is connected to a swiveling member that can be rotated upside down so that a standard digital camera can be mounted onto a screw embedded in the camera mounting enclosure. In other embodiments, a pair of gripper arms mounted onto the camera mounting enclosure can be adjusted to different widths that allows for camera phones to be securely held. The gripper arms can also secure an adapter that allows for a web cam to be mounted onto the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Inventor: Jeff Justice
  • HOLDING DEVICE FOR CAMERA AND CAMERA DEVICE HAVING THE SAME
    Publication number: 20130148951
    Abstract: A holding device for a camera includes a base and an inserting member; the base includes a limiting slot and a first wire slot formed on a bottom portion of the limiting slot; the inserting member is inserted to the limiting slot to engage with the limiting slot; the inserting member includes a second wire slot formed on a side thereof which contacts the limiting slot, and the second wire slot engages with the first wire slot after the inserting member is inserted into the limiting slot to engage with the limiting slot. The holding device of the present disclosure not only allows a user to mount a camera to hamlets, walls, or planes, but also avoids the situation where the whole holding device needs to be replaced when one of the above components is damaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2012
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: SHENZHEN AEE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD
    Inventor: Shenzhen AEE Technology CO., LTD
  • Handheld camera balancing support system
    Patent number: 8454246
    Abstract: A balancing support system is provided for a handheld electronic device enabled with a camera. The support system is balanced on a central apex of a handle member. Laterally spaced apart clamping members allow various camera devices to be clamped onto the support system. Counterbalancing stabilizer arms are also able to support a camera on the support system in a self-supported and upright orientation. A steering member transmits steering movement to the camera device relative to the handle member through a magnetic interaction to minimize the effects of undesirable user movements on the video being captured by the camera device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: Dennis Wood
  • Lens holder and image capture device using same
    Patent number: 8454247
    Abstract: An adaptive mounting for an image capture device includes a lens holder, a tilt bracket rotatably engaging with the lens holder, and a pan bracket pivotally connecting the tilt bracket via a pair of adjustment screws. The lens holder includes two opposite connecting portions used for engaging with either a vari-focus lens module or a fixed focus lens module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kuo-Chih Hung, Hsueh-Chin Lu
  • TRIPODHEAD
    Publication number: 20130136440
    Abstract: In the tripod head, the resilient force adjusting mechanism includes a rotating operation part, a cam coupled to the rotating operation part and slides with the rotation of the rotating operation part, and a cam follower coming into contact with the cam surfaces of the cam, and the cam follower is supported by a counterbalancing mechanism, and the counterbalancing mechanism is configured in such a manner that the magnitude of the resilient force to be imparted on the spring is variable in accordance with the position where the cam follower comes into contact with the cam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: HEIWA SEIKI KOGYO CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Heiwa Seiki Kogyo Co., Ltd.
  • Easily Adjustable Tripod
    Publication number: 20130121680
    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: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Inventor: Qingyuan Chen
  • APPARATUSES AND SYSTEMS FOR SUPPORTING AND POSITIONING CAMERAS AND OTHER EQUIPMENT
    Publication number: 20130114951
    Abstract: Apparatuses and systems for supporting and positioning cameras and other equipment are disclosed herein. An apparatus for supporting a camera in accordance with one embodiment of the invention can include one or more bendable support members extending from a camera holding portion. In this embodiment, each of the bendable support members includes a plurality of shaped outer portions arranged on an elongate, bendable core. In one embodiment, the bendable core can include a plastically deformable material that retains its shape after being bent with little or no spring-back, and each of the shaped outer portions can include spherical portions formed from a resilient, elastomeric material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: Tocad America, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Darrow
  • CAMERA STABILIZATION MECHANISM
    Publication number: 20130105619
    Abstract: Camera mount systems are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a camera mount system is provided, including a first and a second axial arm configured to mount a camera system. The camera mount system further includes a plurality of pistons configured to attach the first and the second axial arms to a vehicle frame. The camera mount system also includes a plurality of springs configured to attach the first and the second axial arms to the vehicle frame, wherein the first and the second axial arms are disposed underslung to the vehicle frame, and wherein the pistons enable a first movement of the first and the second axial arms about a geometric plane and the springs enable a second movement of the first and the second axial arms along an axis normal to the geometric plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: VANGUARD DEFENSE INTERNATIONAL, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Sean Buscher, Henry E. Kulesza
  • TRIPOD HEAD
    Publication number: 20130108255
    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: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventor: Philippe Vogt
  • Multi-axis photographic tripod heads
    Patent number: 8418973
    Abstract: A tripod head comprises a tripod mounting component, an angle adjusting component, and a camera mounting component. The angle adjusting component is configured to allow adjustment and locking of the angle between the tripod mounting component and the camera mounting component about first and second perpendicular axes. The camera mounting component is rotatably mounted to the angle adjusting component to allow the camera mounting component to be rotated and locked with respect to the angle adjusting component about a third axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Mamiya America Corporation
    Inventors: Hao Liu, Robert M. Rose
  • Spherical mounting and positioning system
    Patent number: 8414201
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an enhanced magnetic directional mount for mounting, positioning, and orienting an electronic device such as a camera. In this enhanced mount, the base mounting surface is configured to maximize the extent of adjustment and ease of adjustability of the electronic device, and the base mounting surface and housing mounting surface are designed to provide smooth and secure movement in the electronic device position. Additionally, the enhanced magnetic mount includes attachments designed to affix the magnetic mount to a horizontal or vertical flat surface such as a desk or a wall, and an attachment designed to effectively mount and use the electronic device from a window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: AVAAK, Inc.
    Inventors: James Steven Skeoch, Jeff Dorsett, Erich Scott Volkert, Gioia Messinger
  • Camera platform locking device
    Patent number: 8414202
    Abstract: A camera platform locking device, including a housing, for preventing the components from exiting; in the housing from the top down are configured: a sphere, for providing a support to the camera; a locking mechanism, arranged underneath the sphere, for working with the housing to lock the sphere inside the housing; a platform base, arranged underneath the locking mechanism, and fixedly connected to the housing, for providing a support to the locking mechanism. A camera platform locking device of this invention may allow two regulating assemblies to gain distinguished moving distances for achieving different regulation purposes when rotating each knob of the regulating assemblies with the same angle so as to improve the regulation performance of the locking device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Zhongshan Sirui Photographic Equipment Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jie Li
  • Levelling apparatus
    Patent number: 8408820
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: EI-Electronic Ideas Limited
    Inventor: Graham Manson
  • Camera holding module and device for relief shooting
    Patent number: 8408819
    Abstract: The invention relates to a camera holding module for stereoscopic shooting, characterized in that it comprises: a carriage mobile in translation (2) along at least one guiding rail, driven by a driving device; a camera-holding rotary member (3) having a rotation axis and a guiding member (32) carried by the mobile carriage, as well as an actuator (27) interacting with the guiding member for initiating the movement thereof in order to rotate the camera holding member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Binocle
    Inventors: Yves Pupulin, Yves Perles
  • CAMERA ROTATION MECHANISM AND PORTABLE ELECTRONIC APPARATUS THEREWITH
    Publication number: 20130064537
    Abstract: The invention discloses a camera rotation mechanism and a portable electronic apparatus therewith. The camera rotation mechanism includes a rotatable carrier, a bearing structure, and a rotating mechanism, which are disposed in a casing. The rotatable carrier includes a carrier body and a rotatable shaft connected to the carrier body and bore by the bearing structure. A camera module is disposed on the carrier body such that a lens of the camera module is exposed through a lens hole of the casing. The rotating mechanism is connected to the rotatable shaft and includes a rotation operation part partially exposed through a slot hole of the casing and capable of being rotated to rotate the carrier body through the rotatable shaft. Therefore, a user can use the camera rotation mechanism to adjust the disposition angle of the lens, which solves the impossibility of adjusting a fixed camera in the prior art.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventors: San-Pao Kao, Cheng-Hsiang Chuang, Chen-Yi Liang
  • Photo arm system
    Patent number: 8393806
    Abstract: A photo arm is proposed here. A revolving handwheel is equipped for driving a transmission mechanism to bring the photo arm to rotate, so that a camera fixed on the photo arm can shoot from different angles along a circular path. The photo arm is also equipped with a power and signal connecting box for supplying power to the camera and transmitting image information and control instructions. Furthermore, a hoist handwheel is equipped for adjusting the height of the rotation center of the photo arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Ortery Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Peng-Cheng Lai
  • Camera Mounting Device
    Publication number: 20130058639
    Abstract: The present camera mounting device is designed as an paintball marker or gun accessory. It can be used with either still or video cameras. It is comprised a bracket and an adjustable clamp. The bracket is comprised of a horizontal member and a vertical member that are connected at ninety degree angles to each other. The clamp is attached to the vertical member of the bracket with a screw. To use the mounting device, a camera is either top mounted or bottom mounted to the horizontal member via a thumbscrew. The adjustable clamp fits onto the barrel of a paintball marker, gun or rifle. The diameter of the clamp is adjusted by releasing a lock on the locking clamp screw on the clamp and turning the screw either clockwise or counter clockwise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2012
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Inventor: Christopher Galik
  • SUPPORT HEAD FOR AN OPTICAL OR VIDEO-PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS
    Publication number: 20130058638
    Abstract: A support head for an optical or video-photographic apparatus, comprises a first body (302) traversed by a first axis (Z) of rotation of the apparatus with respect to a base of the head, a second body (303) coupled in a rotary manner to the first body in order to rotate about the first axis, a third body (304) traversed by a second axis (X) of rotation of the apparatus with respect to a base of the head, this second axis being substantially perpendicular to the first axis, and the third body being coupled in a rotary manner to the second body in order to rotate about this second axis, as well as locking means (330) able to lock, by a single movement of a control member (331) which may be carried out directly by a user, both the relative rotation of the first and second bodies (302, 303) about the first axis (Z) and the rotation of the second and third bodies (303, 304) about the second axis Y.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: LINO MANFROTTO + CO S.P.A.
    Inventors: Igor Piccoli, Stelvio Zarpellon, Enrico Cherubin
  • ROLL-TILT BALL TURRET CAMERA HAVING COILED DATA TRANSMISSION CABLE
    Publication number: 20130051782
    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: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: AeroVironment, Inc.
    Inventor: Manolis Pavlos Dimotakis
  • SUPPORT HEAD FOR AN OPTICAL OR VIDEO-PHOTOGRAPHIC APPARATUS
    Publication number: 20130051783
    Abstract: A support head for an optical or video-photographic apparatus comprises a first body (2) including a pin (7) extended along a first axis (Y) of rotation of the apparatus with respect to a base of the head, a second body (3) coupled in a rotary manner to the pin of first body in order to rotate about the first axis, a third body (4) traversed by a second axis (X) of rotation substantially perpendicular to the first axis and coupled in a rotary manner to the second body in order to rotate about the second axis and locking means (30) able to lock, by a single movement of a control member (31) which may be carried out directly by a user, both the relative rotation of the first and second bodies about the first axis and the relative rotation of the second and third bodies about the second axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: GITZO S.A.
    Inventors: Igor Piccoli, Stelvio Zarpellon, Enrico Cherubin
  • Stereopicture shooting bracket
    Patent number: 8385737
    Abstract: A stereopicture shooting bracket, includes: a bracket (10), a base (9) mounted on the base (10), a curved rail mounted on the base (9), a sliding block (2) moving along the curved rail (1), a camera (3) capable of continuous shooting mounted on a top of the sliding block (2), and a driving device for driving the sliding block (2). A circle the curved rail (1) locating locates on a horizontal plane. The stereopicture shooting bracket according to the present invention is capable of shooting pictures of a same object continuously from different angles, so as to overcome the drawback that the focus, metering, and angle of different cameras can not be consistent at the shooting moment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventor: Jinchang Gu
  • Adjustable handle, particularly for camera
    Patent number: 8373762
    Abstract: The invention relates to a handle (1) for actuating a device such as a video camera. The handle includes indentations (3) for accommodating the fingers of the user. An adjustment system (5, 7, 8, 9, 11) enables the width (11, 12, 13, 14) of at least a portion of said indentations to be modified in order to adapt it to the width of the user's fingers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Caman SA
    Inventor: Camille Cottagnoud
  • ARTICULATED JIB FOR MOVING A CAMERA DURING THE PRODUCTION OF A MOTION PICTURE
    Publication number: 20130034347
    Abstract: An articulated jib for moving a load is supported on a base and comprises a first jib arm pivotably connected to a base. The first jib arm functions as a bascule and is pivotable about a first axis. There is a first counterweight disposed on the first jib arm. A second jib arm is pivotably connected to the first jib arm and is pivotable about a second axis. A linking rod connects the second jib arm to a lever arm which is also pivotably connected to the base. There is a second counterweight disposed on the lever arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Inventors: Rotheisler Randy, Dean Leonard
  • Systems, Apparatus, and Methods for Stabilizing Mobile Devices
    Publication number: 20130034348
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2012
    Publication date: February 7, 2013
    Applicant: DYNAMO INNOVATIONS GROUP, INC.
    Inventors: Brent Lee Boswell, Nathan Bruce Fambro
  • Tripod head with folding handle
    Patent number: 8366062
    Abstract: A tripod head comprises a mount and an angle adjustment mechanism for adjusting and locking the angle of the mount with respect to a tripod. The mechanism comprises an elongated handle. The handle is adapted to rotate around its longitudinal axis to lock the angle of the mechanism when rotated in one direction and unlock the angle of the mechanism when rotated in the other direction. The handle comprises a proximal portion and a distal portion. The distal portion is attached at a pivot point whereby the distal portion can pivot between an operative position in line with the proximal portion and a storage position generally perpendicular to the proximal portion. The handle further comprises a locking device for releasably locking the distal portion in the operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Mamiya America Corporation
    Inventors: Hao Liu, Robert M. Rose
  • Camera assembly capable of adjusting angle of camera
    Patent number: 8360663
    Abstract: A camera assembly mounted in an electronic device comprises a hollow base, a first gear, a first shaft, a second gear, a second shaft, a driving device and a driving gear. The camera is received in the base and rotatably connected to the base. One end of the first shaft is fixed with the first gear, another end of the first shaft is rotatably connected with the camera. One end of the second shaft is fixed with the base, another end of the second shaft is fixed with the second gear. The driving device drives the driving gear to engage with the first gear and the second gear, respectively, which lead to the camera capable of rotating around an axis of the first shaft and an axis of the second shaft, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hung-Ting Lin
  • DEVICE FOR FASTENING IMAGING UNITS ON A MICROSCOPE
    Publication number: 20130016963
    Abstract: A device used to fasten a myriad of imaging units, including a large variety of camera enabled cell phones to a variety of optical systems, such as microscopes, in a non-restrictive, non-specific manor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventor: Andrew Miller
  • CAMERA ASSEMBLY CAPABLE OF ADJUSTING ANGLE OF CAMERA
    Publication number: 20130011129
    Abstract: A camera assembly mounted in an electronic device comprises a hollow base, a first gear, a first shaft, a second gear, a second shaft, a driving device and a driving gear. The camera is received in the base and rotatably connected to the base. One end of the first shaft is fixed with the first gear, another end of the first shaft is rotatably connected with the camera. One end of the second shaft is fixed with the base, another end of the second shaft is fixed with the second gear. The driving device drives the driving gear to engage with the first gear and the second gear, respectively, which lead to the camera capable of rotating around an axis of the first shaft and an axis of the second shaft, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: HUNG-TING LIN
  • Mounting arrangement for optical devices
    Patent number: 8348214
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mounting arrangement for optical devices having a mounting plate forming an undercut guide for receiving a clamping plate, the mounting plate comprising a side bar in which an undercut profile groove is formed, and having a strip located opposite the bar movably connected to the mounting plate via a clamping mechanism and a second undercut profile groove forming the undercut guide together with the first undercut profile groove, the strip being able to be tightened against the mounting plate by the clamping mechanism to fix the clamping plate, whereby the spacing distance between the undercut profile grooves is reduced. A second undercut guide is formed by additional undercut profile grooves in the same side bar of the mounting plate and the same strip, wherein the guides are both disposed on one side of the plane (X) spanned by the mounting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventor: Philippe Vogt
  • MOUNTING APPARATUS FOR A PORTABLE VIDEO CAPTURE DEVICE
    Publication number: 20130004153
    Abstract: A mounting apparatus for a portable video capture device for recording from a substantially first person point of view including an arm assembly configured to be positioned and temporarily fixed in a plurality of angular orientations, and an adjustable clamp coupled to the arm assembly. The mounting apparatus may also include a harness to attach the mounting apparatus to a user's head, a harness mounting plate. The clamp comprises an upper and lower mounting block adjustably positioned on a shaft to secure portable video capture devices of different widths. The upper and lower mounting blocks may also be configured to secure portable video capture devices of different thicknesses. The mounting apparatus may also be configured such that the vertical position is adjustable to allow a user to view a screen on the portable video capture device in real time during video capture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventors: Charles P. McKee, Robert B. Noble
  • Camera device
    Patent number: 8342758
    Abstract: The invention concerns a camera head mount comprising: a strap for encircling the head and means for securing the strap around the head to prevent or hinder slippage of the camera head mount once secured in its mounted position; a camera holding pocket provided on the strap and situated such that when the camera head mount is secured in its mounted position the camera holding pocket is adapted to hold a camera in a forward-facing position against the forehead of the user, the lens of a mounted camera pointing forwards and through a lens aperture provided in the camera holding pocket at the front thereof, the camera holding pocket otherwise being adapted substantially to enclose a camera therein in a mounted and supported position on the forehead of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Bakhu Limited
    Inventor: Sarah Louise Braithwaite
  • Device for supporting a camera in a helicopter
    Patent number: 8346070
    Abstract: A device for supporting a camera to facilitate capturing stable images from a moving and vibrating platform, such as a helicopter includes a base plate and a vertical post attached to the base plate and extending upwardly from the base plate. A swing arm is fixed to the top of the vertical post in a manner that allows the swing arm to pivot around a vertical axis of the vertical post. A handle is attached to the swing arm and extends upwardly from the swing arm Suspended from the handle below the swing arm is a fixture for supporting the camera. The fixture supporting the camera includes that reduce the transmission of vibrations and shocks to the camera. The device for supporting a camera can be secured in place inside a helicopter without altering the structural integrity of the helicopter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventor: Ronald L. Beasley
  • Systems and methods for detecting an imbalance of a camera crane
    Patent number: 8333520
    Abstract: Systems and methods for positioning a camera crane include detecting an imbalance between a counterweight and an extensible arm and decreasing severity of the consequences of an imbalance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: CamMate Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew J. Cronin, Pablo Tovar, Michael Kay Pack, Ron K. Keys, Richard A. Laitinen
  • Electronic dampening for a camera crane
    Patent number: 8328439
    Abstract: A camera platform may be stabilized by reducing or avoiding oscillating movement, when active stabilization systems are not used. A passive dampener resists the back driving of the motors used in the active stabilization system. This dampening or resistance to back driving the motors in turn dampens movement of the camera platform. Oscillations are reduced or avoided and the camera platform may return more quickly and smoothly to a level position. The dampener may be provided as an add-on or temporarily electrically switched in accessory. The dampener may include a circuit that connects the first and second motors of the active stabilization system in series, and connects the series output of the two motors to a variable resistor through a rectifier. A transistor may be with the variable resistor to provide for more linear adjusting and a more compact variable resistor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Chapman/Leonard Studio Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Leonard T. Chapman, Stanislov Gorbatov
  • Multi-directional camera mount device for a compound bow
    Patent number: 8328440
    Abstract: The present invention is a multi-directional camera mount device for mounting a camera onto a compound bow to facilitate movement and positioning of the camera. The camera mount device includes a generally planar camera base bow bracket and a generally planar and elongated camera mount swing arm that is swingably and permanently attached to the bracket. There is also a first attachment assembly to swingably and permanently attach the arm to the bracket, a second attachment assembly to attach the camera to the arm and a swingable assembly that allows swingable movement of the arm and the attached camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Brian Piltz
  • All-in-one tripod/monopod
    Patent number: 8322665
    Abstract: The All-in-one Tripod/Monopod is single-shaft assembly with a base section located at the bottom and telescoping sections that form both a tripod and a monopod of unlimited height. The base is a section with three legs individually hinged at the bottom of the section. The legs can be pivoted independently. All legs pivoted downward form a tripod. All legs pivoted upward form a monopod. Minimum length and portability are provided when all sections are retracted and all legs are pivoted upward. Modularity allows sections to be individually added and removed so that they can be used in whole or in part. Modularity is provided for through a three position latch assembly. Both the top section of the shaft, and the tripod/monopod handle have a threaded screw for mounting a camera or other device. Individual sections, when detached, make special purpose monopods, chest pods, belt pods and extendable poles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventor: James Charles Palik
  • Magnetic array control system for angular orientation of an instrument
    Publication number: 20120301130
    Abstract: A system includes an instrument coupled to a magnetic material. The orientation of the instrument is influenced by a magnetic field generated by an array of magnetic elements. Each element of the array is controlled by a data value in a magnetic control store to produce a field strength and polarity. Overwriting the pattern in the magnetic control store will result in a magnetic field which applies a torque to the instrument and cause an azimuthal or elevational rotary movement about the center of the instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2011
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventor: Fleming Shi
  • PANORAMIC CAMERA MOUNT
    Publication number: 20120301131
    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: August 7, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventor: Joseph JOHNSON
  • Mounting apparatus
    Patent number: 8317415
    Abstract: A mounting apparatus comprises a shell, a positioning member, a rotating member, and a connecting member. The positioning member is secured to the shell; the connecting member is adapted to secure a camera module. The rotating member is secured to the connecting member, and extends out off the shell. The positioning member includes a first flange and a second flange, the connecting member is rotatable and secured between the first flange and the second flange, and the connecting member is rotatable between a first position by the rotating member, where the connecting member abuts the first flange, and a second position, where the connecting member abuts the second flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yu-Lang Chang
  • Bracket
    Patent number: 8317152
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Cong-Bing Zhou
  • Ball-and-socket type head for supporting optical or video-photographic equipment
    Patent number: 8313253
    Abstract: A ball-and-socket type head (1) for optical and video-photographic equipment comprises: a sphere portion (6) on which is fixed an attachment plate (7) for the optical or video-photographic equipment, a main body (2) in which is defined a seat (5) in which the sphere portion is received in engagement for adjustably orienting the attachment plate with respect to the main body, a locking means (20) acting between the sphere portion and the main body in order to lock the sphere portion in a desired position relative to the main body, and arranged within the volume defined by the sphere portion (6) and by the seat (5), and an actuating means (30) for actuating the locking means arranged on said sphere portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: GITZO S.A.
    Inventors: Abramo Carlesso, Paolo Speggiorin, Hem Sudhana, Stelvio Zarpellon
  • Mounting Bracket for a Camera
    Publication number: 20120288267
    Abstract: A camera mounting bracket for supporting a camera in a position determined by a user comprising a quick connect/disconnect mounting assemblage that has a fastener-engaging channel for securing the mounting assemblage to a camera whereby the camera is able to be quickly connected/disconnected from the mounting assemblage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: Non Typical, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Cuddeback
  • STEREO CAMERA PLATFORM AND STEREO CAMERA
    Publication number: 20120288266
    Abstract: A platform for a stereographic camera system, a stereographic camera, and a method for operating a stereographic camera. The platform may include a base and a fixed camera mounting plate attached to the base, the fixed camera mounting plate defining a line of sight. A first linear motion mechanism mounted to the base may be configured to adjust a first distance, normal to the line of sight, between the line of sight and a first rotation axis. A second linear motion mechanism mounted to the base may be configured to adjust a second distance, normal to the line of sight, between the line of sight and a second rotation axis. A movable camera mounting plate may be rotatably coupled to the first linear motion mechanism at a first rotation axis and rotatably coupled to the second linear motion mechanism at a second rotation axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventors: Vincent Pace, Patrick Campbell
  • Miniature Mounting Apparatus
    Publication number: 20120288268
    Abstract: A miniature tripod assembly adapted to mount to the bottom of a camera, or other device, and to be small enough to fit within the profile of the device. The miniature tripod assembly may use ball and socket joint connectors which, when interconnected, form a flexible assembly. In some embodiments, the ball and socket joint connectors utilize an over-molded strip around the outside of the connector to facilitate in their use for gripping. In some embodiments, device may use flexible and extendable legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventor: JoeBen Bevirt
  • SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ADAPTING A MOUNTING DEVICE TO FACILITATE CAPTURING OF IMAGES
    Publication number: 20120288269
    Abstract: Systems and methods for recording images and providing a selected movement or position to a recording device include use of attachment members having a receptacle that receives and is engageable with the distal end of an elongate member of a device for mounting a camera or similar apparatus. As such, the camera may be rolled providing movement suitable for video capture or capture of other types of images that require camera movement, or otherwise positioned as needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventor: Justin Jensen
  • L-SHAPED HOLDER FOR OPTICAL DEVICES
    Publication number: 20120281976
    Abstract: An L-shaped holder for optical devices, in particular cameras, comprising a first exchangeable plate that can be fastened to the housing of the optical device by means of a screw, a second exchangeable plate and a connector having two webs separated by an angled section for connecting the two exchangeable plates, each exchangeable plate being arranged on one of the webs of the connector, which is characterised in that the exchangeable plates are connected to the connector such that the exchangeable plates can be moved on the connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventor: Philippe Vogt
  • Single seat-kill camera system
    Patent number: 8306415
    Abstract: There is disclosed a single seat-kill camera system and method. The single seat-kill camera may include a camera head, a support structure, and an elevator configured to move the camera head relative to the support structure to position the camera head in one of a down position and an up position. An obstruction detector mounted to the support structure may determine whether or not a field of view of the camera head is obstructed, at least in part, when the camera head is in the down position. A controller coupled to the elevator and the obstruction detector may automatically cause the elevator to position the camera head in the up position when the obstruction detector determines that the field of view of the camera head in the down position is obstructed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Inventors: Vincent Pace, Patrick Campbell
  • CAMERA ENCLOSURE ASSEMBLY
    Publication number: 20120275776
    Abstract: An enclosure assembly for a camera is designed to be mounted on the frame of an optical inspection apparatus for scanning the profile of a surface of an article moving along a travel path axis, the profile being associated with a reference axis orthogonal to a reference plane parallel to the travel path axis. The camera is part of a profile sensor unit and has an optical sensing field directed toward the travel path axis to define a scanning zone associated with the surface as intersected by the optical sensing field, the profile unit further having a laser source directing at angle with the optical sensing field a fan-shaped laser beam toward the scanning zone to define an associated scanning plane transverse to the travel path axis, to generate sensor output data related the profile of the article surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: CENTRE DE RECHERCHE INDUSTRIELLE DU QUEBEC
    Inventors: Richard Gagnon, Gaétan Sanschagrin, Denis Lépine