Compact high-aspect-ratio camera tripod

Abstract

A tripod includes a hub defining a set of leg mounts, a set of legs configured to telescopically extend from the hub and couple to the set of leg mounts, a center column including a ball end, and a head pivotably coupled to the ball end. The head further includes a base portion, a camera platform disposed above the base portion, a set of flanges extending below the base portion and around the ball end, a cap disposed above the ball end, a pivot control ring disposed around the base portion, the pivot control ring configured to drive the cap into the ball end in response to rotation in a first direction around the base portion to secure the head on the ball end, and the pivot control ring configured to retract the cap from the ball end in response to rotation in a second direction around the base portion to unlock the head from the ball end.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the application filed on May 13, 2020, with application number 202080051078.X and invention title "Compact High Aspect Ratio Camera Tripod".

[0002] Cross-reference to related applications

[0003] This application claims the benefits of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 847,174, filed May 13, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 965,597, filed January 24, 2020, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0004] This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 501,118, filed May 13, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0005] This invention relates generally to the field of photography, and more specifically to a new and useful close-pack, high-aspect-ratio camera tripod for the field of photography.

[0006] This application provides the following:

[0007] 1) A tripod comprising: a hub defining a central bore and a set of leg mounts arranged radially around the central bore; a set of legs, each of the legs being pivotally coupled to a leg mount in the set of leg mounts and configured to extend retractably from the hub; a center post configured to translate within the central bore of the hub; and the center post including a spherical end configured to nest between the leg mounts; and a head pivotally coupled to the spherical end, and including: a base portion; a camera platform disposed above the base portion, the camera platform defining a guide rail and a locking tab, and configured to temporarily receive a camera adapter coupled to a camera; A set of flanges, arranged in a radial pattern, extending below the base portion and opposite the camera platform, extending around a portion of the spherical end and configured to nest between the leg mounts; a cap, disposed above the spherical end in the base portion; and a pivot control ring, disposed around the base portion, configured to drive the cap into the spherical end in response to rotation about the base portion in a first direction to fix the orientation of the head on the spherical end, and configured to retract the cap from the spherical end in response to rotation about the base portion in a second direction to unlock the head from the spherical end.

[0008] 2) The tripod according to 1), wherein the head further comprises: a threaded portion extending along the central axis of the head and disposed above the spherical end; a star gear threadedly connected to the threaded portion and configured to translate along the threaded portion upon rotation; a spring disposed between the cap and the star gear and configured to press the cap against the spherical end; and a set of planetary gears disposed around and meshing with the star gear; wherein the cap is disposed on the star gear and faces the spherical end; wherein the pivoting... The control ring includes a gear ring that meshes with the set of planetary gears, and the gear ring is configured to: in response to rotation about the base portion in the first direction, rotate the star gear about the threaded portion via the set of planetary gears, drive the cap toward the spherical end, clamp the spherical end against the set of flanges, and fix the orientation of the head on the spherical end; and in response to rotation in the second direction opposite to the first direction, rotate the star gear about the threaded portion via the set of planetary gears, retract the cap from the spherical end, and unlock the head from the spherical end.

[0009] 3) According to the tripod of 1), wherein the head further includes a camera locking ring: the camera locking ring is disposed near the pivot control ring; the camera locking ring is concentric with the pivot control ring; and the camera locking ring is configured to drive the camera locking tab toward the guide rail to temporarily lock the camera adapter between the camera locking tab and the guide rail.

[0010] 4) The tripod according to 3), wherein the head further includes an upper body connected to the base portion and rotatable about a panning axis of the base portion; wherein a camera locking ring is disposed on the upper portion; wherein a pivot control ring is disposed on the base portion; and wherein the head further includes a panning control ring: the panning control ring is inserted between the base portion and the upper portion; and the panning control ring is configured to lock the upper body to the base portion in response to rotation about the base portion in a first direction; and the panning control ring is configured to unlock the upper body from the base portion in response to rotation in a second direction.

[0011] 5) The tripod according to 1), wherein each of the set of leg mounts defines a stop block, the stop block being configured to position the leg of the set of legs in the open position at a first angle between approximately 23 and 25 degrees with respect to the central axis of the central column.

[0012] 6) The tripod according to 5), wherein each of the set of legs is operable in a set of positions, the set of positions including: a folded position, the open position, and a low position; wherein in the folded position, the legs of the set of legs are approximately parallel to the central axis; wherein in the open position, the legs of the set of legs extend outward from the hub at a first angle with respect to the central axis; and wherein in the low position, the legs of the set of legs extend outward from the hub at a second angle between 75 and 85 degrees with respect to the central axis.

[0013] 7) The tripod according to 1), wherein the head further includes a spring disposed behind the cap and opposite the spherical end, and the spring is configured to bias the cap toward the spherical end to prevent rotation of the head relative to the spherical end during rotation of the pivot control ring in the first direction.

[0014] 8) The tripod according to 7) further includes: wherein the spherical end comprises an aluminum-based material and a surface coating; wherein each of the set of flanges includes a flexible end that contacts the surface coating of the spherical end; and wherein the spring is preloaded to grip the spherical end between the cap and the flexible ends of the set of flanges.

[0015] 9) The tripod according to 1), the tripod further comprising a movable mounting member configured to: temporarily attach to the camera platform; and expand from a folded state to an open state to hold the mobile device; and wherein the central column defines a cavity opposite the spherical end, the cavity being configured to receive the movable mounting member in the folded state.

[0016] 10) The tripod according to claim 1), wherein each of the set of legs includes an upper leg portion and a lower leg portion, the lower leg portion being removable from the upper leg portion; wherein the upper leg portion defines a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being pivotally connected to a leg mount in the set of leg mounts; and the tripod further includes a set of feet, each of the set of feet including a proximal end, the proximal end of each foot being configured to insert into the distal end of the upper leg portion in place of the lower leg portion of the set of legs.

[0017] 11) The tripod according to 10), wherein the upper leg portion includes an upper clamp assembly, the upper clamp assembly comprising: a clamp body defining: a longitudinal slit extending along the height of the clamp body; a clamp hole having an internal cross-section approximating the external cross-section of the distal end; a lower clamp flange adjacent to a first side of the longitudinal slit; an upper clamp flange adjacent to the first side of the longitudinal slit and located above the lower clamp flange; and a lower clamp surface adjacent to a second side of the longitudinal slit and facing the lower clamp. A flange; and an upper clamping surface adjacent to the second side of the longitudinal slit and facing the upper clamping flange; and a leg bushing: the leg bushing is disposed within the clamping hole, near the bottom of the clamping body, to fill the gap between the clamping hole and the outer surface of the lower leg portion extending within the clamping hole; and the leg bushing includes a flange configured to insert into the distal end to fill the gap between the inner hole of the upper leg portion and the outer surface of the lower leg portion extending within the upper leg portion.

[0018] 12) The tripod according to 11), wherein the upper clamp assembly further comprises: a lower clamp: the lower clamp temporarily pivots in the lower clamp surface; the lower clamp is coupled to the lower clamp flange; the lower clamp is configured to, in a closed position, pull the lower clamp flange toward the lower clamp surface to compress the clamp body around the lower leg portion extending within the clamp body and lock the upper clamp assembly to the lower leg portion; and the lower clamp is configured to, in an open position, release the lower clamp flange from the lower clamp surface to release the C-shaped clamp body from the lower leg portion and allow the lower leg portion to be positioned on the upper leg portion. Internal telescopic; and an upper clamp: the upper clamp temporarily pivots in the upper clamp surface; the upper clamp is coupled to the upper clamp flange; the upper clamp is configured to pull the upper clamp flange toward the upper clamp surface in the closed position to compress the clamp body around the distal end of the upper leg portion and lock the upper clamp assembly to the upper leg portion; and the upper clamp is configured to release the upper clamp flange from the upper clamp surface in the open position to release the clamp body from the upper leg portion, allowing the upper clamp assembly to be removed from the upper leg portion, and allowing the lower leg portion to be removed from the upper leg portion.

[0019] 13) The tripod according to 1), wherein the center hole defines a tri-convex opening, wherein the convex angles are radially centered among the leg mounts in the set of leg mounts; wherein the center post defines a tri-convex cross section; and wherein each of the set of legs includes an axis defining a set of faces, each set of faces including an inner surface that abuts against the center post and faces the center post.

[0020] 14) The tripod according to 13), wherein the leg in the set of legs defines a width spanning an arc length around the central post and a depth extending outward from the central post, the width being greater than the depth; and wherein each leg in the set of legs includes the axis defining the set of faces, the set of faces including a set of six faces, the six faces including: the inner face, the inner face being nested against the central post and facing the central post; a set of two inward-facing faces, each inward-facing face being adjacent to the inner face and nested against an adjacent leg and facing the adjacent leg; and a set of three outward-facing faces.

[0021] 15) The tripod according to 1), wherein the set of legs pivots about a pivot axis intersecting a horizontal pivot plane; wherein the spherical end is characterized by a spherical center and a spherical radius; and the spherical end is configured to nest between the leg mounts, wherein the offset of the spherical center from the horizontal pivot plane is less than the spherical radius; and wherein the set of flanges is configured to nest between the leg mounts, wherein the bottom portion of the set of flanges extends below the horizontal pivot plane.

[0022] 16) The tripod according to 1) further includes a hook, the hook comprising: a first end portion defining a hook configured to carry a weight; and a second end portion opposite the hook and configured to be attached to a distal end portion of the central post opposite the head to prevent the distal end portion from passing through the central hole of the pivot.

[0023] 17) A tripod comprising: a spherical end; and a head pivotally coupled to the spherical end, the head comprising: a base portion; a camera platform disposed above the base portion and configured to temporarily receive a camera adapter coupled to a camera; a threaded portion extending along a central axis of the head and disposed above the spherical end; a star gear threadedly connected to the threaded portion and configured to translate along the threaded portion upon rotation; a cap disposed on the star gear and facing the spherical end; a spring disposed between the cap and the star gear and configured to press the cap against the spherical end; a set of planetary gears disposed around and meshing with the star gear; and a set of flanges for photographing... The platform extends relative to the base portion, the set of flanges extends around a portion of the spherical end and is arranged in a radial pattern around the spherical end; and a pivot control ring is arranged around the base portion, the pivot control ring including a gear ring meshing with the set of planetary gears, and the gear ring is configured to: in response to rotation about the base portion in a first direction, rotate the sun gear around the threaded portion via the set of planetary gears, drive the cap toward the spherical end, clamp the spherical end against the set of flanges, and fix the orientation of the head on the spherical end; and in response to rotation in a second direction opposite to the first direction, rotate the sun gear around the threaded portion via the set of planetary gears, retract the cap from the spherical end, and unlock the head from the spherical end.

[0024] 18) The tripod according to 17), wherein the camera platform defines a guide rail and a locking tab; and the tripod further includes a camera locking ring: the camera locking ring is disposed near the pivot control ring; the camera locking ring is concentric with the pivot control ring; and the camera locking ring is configured to drive the camera locking tab toward the guide rail to temporarily lock the camera adapter between the camera locking tab and the guide rail.

[0025] 19) The tripod according to 17) further includes: a hub defining a central hole and a set of leg mounts arranged radially around the central hole; and a set of legs, each of the legs being pivotally connected to a leg mount in the set of leg mounts and configured to extend retractably downward from the hub; and wherein the set of flanges is configured to nest between the leg mounts.

[0026] 20) The tripod according to 19) further includes a center column configured to translate within the center hole of the pivot; and wherein the spherical end is coupled to the end of the center column opposite to the set of legs and configured to nest between the leg mounts. Brief description of the attached diagram

[0027] Figures 1-5 This is a diagram of a tripod, in which... Figure 1 The tripod 100 is in the folded position, and Figure 5 The tripod 100 is in the open position;

[0028] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the hook and the movable mounting component, where the movable mounting component 180 is in a folded state;

[0029] Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is a schematic diagram of a movable mounting component, where the movable mounting component 180 is in the open state;

[0030] Figure 8A and Figure 8B This is a schematic diagram of the outrigger clamp;

[0031] Figure 9A and Figure 9B This is a schematic diagram of the outrigger assembly, in which... Figure 9A The tripod 100 is in lightweight mode;

[0032] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a hub;

[0033] Figure 11 This is a diagram of a tripod; and

[0034] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a camera locking tab.

[0035] For ease of understanding, Figure 3 The following are explanations of some of the figure labels:

[0036] A – Center of the sphere, B – Pivot center of the outrigger, C – Bottom of the sphere end, D – Fastener, E – Bearing bushing, H – Rocker arm with outward tilt, I – Pin.

[0037] Implementation Plan Description

[0038] The following description of embodiments of the invention is not intended to limit the invention to these embodiments, but is intended to enable those skilled in the art to make and use the invention.

[0039] 1. Tripod

[0040] like Figures 1-5As shown, the tripod 100 includes: a hub 140 and a set of leg mounts 144, the hub 140 defining a center bore 142, the set of leg mounts 144 being arranged radially around the center bore 142; a set of legs 160, each of the legs 160 being pivotally coupled to the leg mounts 144 in the set of leg mounts 144, and each leg 160 being configured to extend retractably from the hub 140; and a center post 150, the center post 150 being configured to translate within the center bore 142 of the hub 140 and including a spherical end 156 configured to nest between the leg mounts 144. The tripod also includes a head 110 pivotally coupled to a spherical end 156, and the head 110 includes: a base portion 112; a camera platform 130 disposed on the base portion 112, the camera platform 130 defining a guide rail 134 and a locking tab 132 and configured to temporarily receive a camera adapter coupled to a camera; and a set of flanges 114 arranged radially, extending below the base portion 112 and opposite the camera platform 130, the set of flanges 114 extending around a portion of the spherical end 156, and the set of flanges 114 being configured to nest within... Between outrigger mounts 144; a cap 116 disposed in the base portion 112 above a spherical end 156; a pivot control ring 124 disposed around the base portion 112, the pivot control ring 124 being configured to drive the cap 116 into the spherical end 156 in response to rotation about the base portion 112 in a first direction to fix the orientation of the head 110 on the spherical end 156, and the pivot control ring 124 being configured to retract the cap 116 from the spherical end 156 in response to rotation about the base portion 112 in a second direction to unlock the head 110 from the spherical end 156.

[0041] In one variant, the tripod also includes a camera locking ring 126 arranged near and concentric with the pivot control ring 124, and configured to drive the camera locking tab 132 toward the guide rail 134 to temporarily lock the camera adapter between the camera locking tab 132 and the guide rail 134.

[0042] Tripod 100 includes a set of legs 160. Each leg 160 of tripod 100 may include a series of nested telescopic leg portions 162, wherein each leg portion (except the first largest leg portion) is configured to nest within an adjacent larger leg portion having a larger cross-section. Furthermore, the distal end of each leg portion (except the last smallest leg portion) may include a clamping assembly configured to selectively clamp an adjacent, smaller leg portion 162, thereby allowing the smaller leg portion 162 to extend and retract within the adjacent, larger leg portion 162. Each leg is connected to a hub 140 via a leg mount 144 including multi-stage leg position stops.

[0043] In one variation, the tripod 100 includes a spherical end 156 and a head 110 pivotally connected to the spherical end 156, the head 110 including: a base portion 112; a camera platform 130 disposed above the base portion 112 and configured to temporarily receive a camera adapter connected to a camera; a threaded portion 118 extending along the central axis of the head 110 and disposed above the spherical end 156; and a star gear 120 threadedly connected to the threaded portion 118 and configured to translate along the threaded portion 118 during rotation. The system includes: a cap 116 disposed on the star gear 120 and facing the spherical end 156; a spring 117 disposed between the cap 116 and the star gear 120 and configured to press the cap 116 against the spherical end 156; a set of planetary gears 122 disposed around and meshing with the star gear 120; and a set of flanges 114 extending from the base portion 112 opposite to the camera platform 130, extending around a portion of the spherical end 156 and arranged radially around the spherical end 156. In this variant, the tripod 100 further includes a pivot control ring 124 arranged around the base portion 112, the pivot control ring 124 including a gear ring meshing with the set of planetary gears 122, and the pivot control ring 124 is configured to: in response to rotation about the base portion 112 in a first direction, rotate the sun gear 120 about the threaded portion 118 via the set of planetary gears 122, drive the cap 116 toward the spherical end 156, clamp the spherical end 156 against the set of flanges 114, and fix the orientation of the head 110 on the spherical end 156; and in response to rotation in a second direction opposite to the first direction, rotate the sun gear 120 about the threaded portion 118 via the set of planetary gears 122, retract the cap 116 from the spherical end 156, and unlock the head 110 from the spherical end 156.

[0044] 2. Application

[0045] In general, tripod 100 includes: a hub 140 defining a set of leg mounts 144 pivotally connected to a set of legs 160; and a head 110 including a set of stacked control rings that allow a user to quickly adjust the pitch, yaw, and roll of a camera mounted to the head 110 relative to the hub and legs, and to quickly position, lock, and remove the camera with one hand in the same location. More specifically, tripod 100 includes a set of stacked control rings that fall into the hand in a compact position, allowing the user to manipulate the position of the camera and quickly mount and detach the camera from tripod 100. For example, the tripod may include a set of concentric control rings stacked directly beneath the camera mount. These rings can fully engage and disengage in less than one full turn (e.g., less than 360 degrees), allowing the user to quickly and easily move the head 110 a full 360 degrees in panning, easily move the head 110 almost a full 180 degrees in tilting (e.g., pitch and roll), and then fully and confidently lock the tripod 100 in place without repositioning the user's hands or removing them from the head 110.

[0046] Furthermore, by incorporating the concentric control rings that are stacked together, the tripod 100 centralizes panning, tilting, and locking / unlocking controls in a compact location, thereby: limiting features that protrude outward from the head 110; minimizing the effective diameter of the head 110; increasing the compactness and space efficiency of the tripod 100 when fully folded; reducing the weight of the tripod 100; and improving the ease of transporting, storing, and retrieving the tripod 100 for the user.

[0047] The head 110 of the tripod 100 is mounted to a center post 150, which is configured to extend within a central hole 142 of a hub 140. The hub 140 defines a set of leg mounts 144 that engage and support a set of legs 160. The center post 150 defines a spherical end 156, and the head 110 defines a set of flanges 114 that extend from the bottom of the head 110 to form a socket around the spherical end 156, allowing the user to tilt the head 110 relative to the hub 140. Specifically, the head 110 defines a set of flanges 114 arranged in a radial pattern that matches the radial pattern of the leg mounts 144 extending from the hub 140, such that when the tripod 100 is fully folded, the head 110 is radially offset (e.g., 60 degrees) from the hub 140, allowing the flanges 114 and the leg mounts 144 to nest (or “interlock”) to enclose the spherical end 156, thus achieving high vertical packing efficiency and volumetric packing efficiency. The interlocking head 110, hub 140, and leg portions form a stable and robust folded state, allowing the tripod 100 to maintain a substantially uniform effective diameter when folded. This enables the user to stow the tripod 100 without external knobs or protrusions hooking onto other equipment or bag flaps / openings. For example, when fully folded (e.g., in the folded position), the tripod 100 can approximate a cylindrical form with minimal negative space, thus exhibiting high volumetric efficiency. Furthermore, in this example, the center column 150 may define a triangular cross section such that when the center column 150 is fully retracted from the hub 140 and the head 110 is nested around the leg mount 144, the inner surface of the leg 160 mates with (or is very close to) the outer surface of the center column 150, thereby minimizing the negative space within the cylindrical outer form approximated by the tripod 100 in this folded state.

[0048] In one variation, the radial distance between the flanges 114 can be less than the radial width of the central post 150, allowing the head 110 to tilt nearly 180 degrees around the spherical end 156 in both the pitch and yaw directions. For example, a user can: take a first series of photographs with a camera mounted on the head 110, held in a landscape position by the head 110; and then manipulate the pivot control ring 124 to quickly unlock, tilt, and relock the head 110, thereby repositioning the camera to a portrait position. The user can also manipulate the pivot control ring 124 to release the head 110 from the spherical end, enabling finer pitch adjustments to the camera in this portrait position (e.g., within a range of 120 degrees, less than the sum of the radial widths of the central post 150 and one flange).

[0049] Each leg 160 of tripod 100 includes a set of nested leg sections 162 (or “telescoping stages”), and tripod 100 also includes a center column 150. All these collaborations allow tripod 100 to be extended to a height several times (e.g., four times) greater than its height in the folded state. When unfolded, tripod 100 can occupy a certain area and height, thus defining a robust structure for supporting heavy camera equipment (e.g., sandbags, telephoto lenses, etc.) and supporting a wide range of applications and uses for photographers.

[0050] 3. Head

[0051] like Figures 1-3 As shown, the head 110 includes: a camera platform 130 arranged orthogonally to the central axis of the head 110; a camera locking ring that operates radially about the central axis of the head 110 to engage with a locking tab 132; a flange recess including a set (e.g., three) of flanges arranged in a radial pattern and configured to receive a spherical end 156 on a central post 150; a cap 116 inserted between the camera platform 130 and the spherical end 156 and configured to cooperate with the set of flanges to grip the spherical end; and a pivot control ring 124 that is radially operable (i.e., rotatable) about the central axis of the head 110 to drive the cap 116 into and out of the spherical end 156 to lock and release the head 110 from the spherical end 156, respectively.

[0052] In one embodiment, the head further includes: a threaded portion 118 (e.g., a threaded hole or threaded shaft) extending along the central axis of the head 110 and disposed above the spherical end 156; a star gear 120 threadedly connected to the threaded portion 118 and configured to translate along the threaded portion 118 during rotation; and a set of planetary gears 122 disposed around and meshing with the star gear 120. The pivot control ring 124 may also include a gear ring that mates with the set of planetary gears 122; and a cap 116 may be mounted to the star gear 120. The head 110 may also include a spring 117 disposed between the cap 116 and the star gear 120, opposite the spherical end 156, and the spring 117 is configured to bias the cap 116 toward the spherical end 156 and hold the spherical end 156 between the cap 116 and the set of flanges 114, thereby limiting the rotation of the head 110 on the spherical end 156 even when the pivot control ring 124 is unlocked as the star gear 120 is screwed up along the threaded portion 118 and retracted from the spherical end 156. Therefore, rotation of the pivot control ring 124 about the head 110 in the first direction causes the planetary gear 122 to rotate in the second direction, and thus causes the sun gear 120 to rotate in the first direction, thereby: causing the sun gear 120 to turn down along the threaded portion 118; compressing the spring 117 between the sun gear 120 and the cap 116; reliably engaging the leading face of the sun gear 120 against the back face of the cap 116; and thus driving the cap 116 against the spherical end 156 to lock the spherical end 156 between the cap 116 and the set of flanges 114, thereby locking the pitch, yaw, and roll position of the head 110 on the spherical end 156. Similarly, rotation of the pivot control ring 124 about the head 110 in the second direction causes the planetary gear set 122 to rotate in the first direction, and thus causes the sun gear 120 to rotate in the second direction, thereby: causing the sun gear 120 to rotate up along the threaded portion 118; causing the front of the sun gear 120 to retract from the back of the cap 116; (partially) releasing the spring 117; and thus reducing the compression of the spherical end 156 between the cap 116 and the set of flanges 114, thereby unlocking the head 110 from the spherical end 156.

[0053] Therefore, the threaded portion 118, the sun gear 120, and the set of planetary gears 122 can cooperate with the pivot control ring 124, the cap 116, and the spherical end 156 to lock and unlock the orientation of the head 110 around the spherical end 156.

[0054] Camera platform 130 includes a generally planar top surface configured to receive a base or side of a camera, camera mount, or adapter. Camera platform 130 also includes a projecting retaining rail 134 to engage with the side of the camera, camera mount, or adapter. An operable locking tab 132 cooperates with retaining rail 134 to position and retain a camera adapter mounted to the camera, thereby restricting movement of the camera relative to head 110. Furthermore, head 110 may include a spring 136 biasing the camera locking tab 132 toward retaining rail 134 to snap the camera adapter onto camera platform 130 when the camera is supplied to head 110. Additionally, camera locking ring 126 may define a ramp or cam that drives and retains camera locking tab 132 toward retaining rail 134 to lock the camera adapter between camera locking tab 132 and camera retaining rail 134. Camera locking ring 126 slides about the central axis of head 110. Therefore, the fixed guide rail 134, camera locking tab 132, spring 136, and camera locking ring 126 can cooperate to allow the user to lower the camera onto the head 110 with her left hand, and then rotate the camera locking ring 126 with her left hand to fully lock the camera onto the head 110 (e.g., while constantly reaching the lens in her camera bag with her right hand) as the spring 136 drives the camera locking tab 132 against the camera adapter to loosely hold the camera on the camera platform 130.

[0055] The user can then slide her left hand down (e.g., about 10 mm) to remove her fingers from the camera locking ring 126 and position them on the pivot control ring 124, rotate the pivot control ring 124 to release the head 110 on the spherical end 156, and adjust the tilt and pan of the head 110 (and thus the camera) relative to the pivot 140 before retightening the pivot control ring 124 to position the target scene in the camera's field of view. After this, the user can immediately begin shooting the target scene.

[0056] In addition, the user can keep her left hand on the head 110 (with her fingers in contact with the pivot control ring 124) to perform instant panning and tilting adjustments to the camera by releasing the pivot control ring 124 with her left hand before reshooting, repositioning the head 110 with her left hand, and then tightening the pivot control ring 124 again with her left hand.

[0057] Finally, the user can raise the head 110 with her left hand to engage the camera locking ring 126 and rotate the camera locking ring 126 to release the camera locking tab 132; the spring 136 can continue to bias the camera locking tab 132 toward the fixed guide rail 134 to hold the camera on the head 110 until the user (e.g., with her left hand) biases the camera locking tab 132 to retrieve the camera.

[0058] Therefore, the head 110 can define a compact set of stacked controls that allow the user to quickly and easily place, adjust, and remove the camera from the tripod 100 with one hand.

[0059] 3.1 Camera Platform

[0060] Camera platform 130 may include a top portion defining: a camera platform 130 (e.g., a grooved or textured surface) configured to bear vertical loads of a camera, camera mount, or other adapter; a retaining rail 134 extending along a first end of the surface of camera platform 130 and defining a first undercut portion 190; and a channel at a second end of the camera mount surface for a camera locking tab 132. Camera platform 130 may also include a spring 136 biasing the camera locking tab 132 toward the retaining rail 134 and retracting the camera locking tab 132 when the camera mount is positioned above the camera mount surface. The camera locking tab 132 may similarly define a second undercut portion 192 and may cooperate with the retaining rail 134 to temporarily receive and hold a camera, camera mount, or other adapter above the camera mount surface. The camera platform 130 also includes a bottom portion defining: a threaded portion 118 (or threaded shaft) configured to mate with the threaded end of the star gear 120; and holes for a spring 117 and a detent-pin configured to engage a detent surface (e.g., a ridge) along an adjacent camera locking ring 126.

[0061] In one embodiment, the camera platform 130 may be made of aluminum, steel, or a rigid polymer (e.g., cast, machined).

[0062] 3.2 Camera Locking Ring

[0063] In one implementation, such as Figure 11As shown, the head 110 includes a camera locking ring 126 arranged near and concentric with the pivot control ring 124, and the camera locking ring 126 is configured to drive the camera locking tab 132 toward the fixed rail 134 to temporarily lock the camera adapter between the camera locking tab 132 and the fixed rail 134.

[0064] In one embodiment, the camera locking ring 126 includes an annular ring comprising: a set of stops on a first side of a first surface, the set of stops being configured to engage with spring-loaded stop pins; and a ramp on a second side, the ramp being configured to engage with a camera locking tab 132 such that rotation of the annular ring about the central axis of the head 110 forces the camera locking tab 132 into a series of locking positions along the ramp, dynamically securing the camera, camera mount, or camera adapter to the camera platform 130. In this embodiment, the camera locking tab 132 may be configured to actuate the camera, camera mount, and / or camera adapter into a recess to restrain movement of the camera in response to rotation of the annular ring. The camera locking tab 132 may be spring-loaded and engage with a ramp on a ring (e.g., camera locking ring 126) parallel to the camera platform 130. As the annular ring rotates about the central axis of the head 110, the ramp can force the tab into a fixed position, thereby locking the camera (or camera accessory) to the camera platform 130. A series of stops are placed opposite the ramp on the ring and engage with the spring-loaded stop pin to offset the locking position of the tab.

[0065] In one variation, the camera locking ring 126 includes radially outwardly extending protrusions (e.g., finger tabs) to engage with the user's fingers during one-handed operation. The ring can be positioned in a plane parallel to the camera platform 130. In another variation, the ring can be positioned directly below the camera platform 130. For example, the ring can be made of aluminum, plastic, or carbon fiber.

[0066] Therefore, when the camera locking ring 126 is unlocked, the camera locking tab 132 can pivot or slide within the camera platform 130 to engage and hold the camera mount, allowing the user to position one end of the camera mount within the first undercut portion 190 of the fixed guide rail 134, rest the opposite end on the camera locking tab 132, and press it down. When the user rotates the camera locking ring 126 to the locked position, the cam surface defined by the camera locking ring 126 closes toward the camera locking tab 132 and then engages the camera locking tab 132 to prevent the camera locking tab 132 from retracting from the guide rail 134 in response to the user pushing or pulling the camera locking tab 132, thereby reliably locking the camera mount between the camera locking tab 132 and the guide rail 134.

[0067] More specifically, the camera locking ring 126 can overdrive the camera locking tab 132 toward the fixed guide rail 134 and thus serve as an auxiliary lock for the camera platform 130.

[0068] 3.3 Locking tabs

[0069] In one embodiment, the camera locking tab 132 and the spring 136 cooperate to hold the camera mount attached to the camera on the camera platform 130 without the need for additional forced locking of the camera locking ring 126, allowing the user to push, pull, and / or pivot the camera without the camera locking tab 132 releasing the camera mount from the camera platform 130.

[0070] exist Figure 12 In one embodiment shown, the first undercut portion 190 of the fixed guide rail 134 may be configured to mate with a first beveled face of the camera mount (or "camera adapter"). The second undercut portion 192 of the camera locking tab 132 may be configured to mate with a second beveled face of the camera mount opposite the first beveled face. For example, when mounted on the camera platform 130, the first undercut portion 190 of the fixed guide rail 134 and the second undercut portion 192 of the camera locking tab 132 may define complementary 45° bevels. In this embodiment, the camera locking tab 132 is mounted to and pivots about a pivot 194 (e.g., a pin) disposed below the camera platform 130. A spring 136 laterally offsets from the pivot 194 and drives (e.g., pivots) the camera locking tab 132 upward so that the second undercut portion 192 engages with the second beveled face of the camera mount, thereby holding the camera mount on the camera platform 130.

[0071] Specifically, pivot 194 can be positioned along (or near) a vector that intersects and is orthogonal to the second undercut portion 192 of the camera locking tab and the second slope of the camera mount when the camera mount is fitted above the camera platform 130. Because pivot 194 is positioned along this vector: the effective lever arm length applied by the camera mount to the camera locking tab 132 is zero (or nearly zero); and the effective torque applied by the camera mount to the camera locking tab 132 (such as when the camera is pulled or rotated above the camera platform 130) is zero (or nearly zero) and is (almost) unrelated to the magnitude of the force or torque applied to the camera. Furthermore, because spring 136 is laterally offset from pivot 194, this effective torque applied by the camera mount to the camera locking tab 132 is less than the reverse torque applied by spring 136 to the camera locking tab 132, such that the camera locking tab 132 remains engaged to the camera mount regardless of the magnitude of the force or torque applied to the camera. Therefore, when the user pushes, pulls, or pivots the camera, the final torque (approximately) required to open the camera locking tab 132 is zero, and thus the camera locking tab 132 does not rotate away from the camera mount. Consequently, the camera locking tab 132 remains fixed in its closed position, holding the camera mount and camera properly positioned above the camera platform 130, despite the force applied to the camera.

[0072] However, in response to a user pushing or pulling the camera locking tab 132 directly downwards, the camera locking tab 132 can pivot about the pivot 194, which retracts the second undercut portion 192 away from the adjacent second ramp on the camera mount and allows the user to lift the camera and camera mount from the camera platform 130.

[0073] Furthermore, during the placement of the camera mount onto the camera platform 130, in response to a downward force applied to the top of the camera locking tab 132 above the second undercut portion 192 of the camera mount, the camera locking tab 132 can pivot downward about the pivot 194, thereby retracting the second undercut portion 192 away from the camera platform 130 and allowing the camera mount to move downward toward the camera platform 130. Specifically, the user can insert the first ramp of the camera mount into the first undercut portion 190 of the fixing rail 134, place the second ramp of the camera mount above the camera locking tab 132, and press downward. The force of the second ramp of the camera mount on the camera locking tab 132 counteracts the spring 136 and applies torque to the camera locking tab 132, thereby rotating the camera locking tab 132 downward about the pivot 194 to open the camera platform 130 to receive the camera mount. As the camera locking tab 132 opens, the second ramp of the camera mount slides along the apex of the camera locking tab 132 above the second undercut portion 192 and eventually falls over the apex of the locking tab 132 to sit beneath it, with the second ramp positioned against the second undercut portion 192 of the camera locking tab 132, and the base of the camera mount now in contact with the top surface of the camera platform 130. The spring 136 then automatically drives the camera locking tab 132 upward to reliably grip the camera mount between the guide rail 134 and the camera locking tab 132.

[0074] 3.4 Control Chassis

[0075] Control chassis: Inserted between camera platform 130 and a set of flanges 114; accommodates star gear 120, planetary gear 122 and cap 116; and positions pivot control ring 124 below camera locking ring 126. (Example) Figure 2 As shown, the control chassis may also define a set of bearing surfaces or supports configured to radially position the planetary gears around the central axis of the head 110.

[0076] 3.4.1 Pivot Control Loop

[0077] The tripod includes a pivot control ring 124 arranged around the base portion 112 of the head 110 and configured to fix the orientation of the head 110 on the spherical end 156 or unlock the head 110 from the spherical end 156 in response to rotation by the user.

[0078] The pivot control ring may define an outer annular ring, such as including a splined or grooved outer surface configured for manual operation. The inner surface of the pivot control ring 124 may also define an annular gear ring configured to mesh with the set of planetary gears 122 arranged within the control chassis and camera platform 130.

[0079] The pivot control ring can be positioned on the head 110 of the tripod 100 and is accessible by hand. Rotating the pivot control ring causes the planetary gear 122 to rotate, which in turn causes the star gear 120 to rotate about the threaded portion 118 within the camera platform 130, resulting in a linear translation of the star gear 120 along the central axis of the head.

[0080] 3.4.2 Planetary Gearbox

[0081] Tripod 100 also includes a planetary gearbox comprising a sun gear 120 and a set of planetary gears 122, the planetary gearbox being arranged in a control chassis and configured to convert rotation of pivot control ring 124 into linear movement of cap 116.

[0082] The star gear 120 rotates about the central axis of the head 110. The height of the star gear 120 may approximate (or exceed) the sum of the following: the height of the planetary gear 122; and the range of vertical movement of the star gear 120 between the locked and unlocked positions of the pivot control ring 124. The star gear 120 includes a coaxial (internal or external) threaded portion that mates with a threaded portion 118 in the head (i.e., threaded onto this threaded portion 118), such that as the pivot control ring 124 rotates adjacent to the head portion 110, the star gear 120 rises and falls within the head, and thus retracts toward the spherical end 156 and advances the cap 116. For example, the threaded portion 118 within the head 110 and the star gear 120 may define a single-lead or double-lead ACME thread, which can limit friction between the threaded portion 118 and the star gear 120 as the star gear 120 rotates via the pivot control ring 124.

[0083] Furthermore, each planetary gear 122 may include a shaft or pin extending parallel to the central axis of the head 110, and this shaft or pin is located in complementary mounting holes in the control chassis and camera platform 130; and may engage with both the pivot control ring 124 and the star gear 120, such that rotation of the pivot control ring 124 causes the star gear 120 to rotate about the threaded portion 118, and raises and lowers the star gear 120 toward the spherical end 156—and thus raises and lowers the cap 116. In a variant, the pivot control ring 124 may be arranged directly below and coaxial with the camera locking ring 126.

[0084] 3.4.3 Friction Cap

[0085] In one embodiment, a friction cap 116 (hereinafter referred to as the "cap") is engaged with a star gear 120. For example, the star gear 120 may include a recessed spherical cup portion coaxial with a threaded portion 118, the recessed spherical cup portion facing a spherical end 156 and configured to engage and grip the spherical end 156 when actuated by a pivot control ring 124.

[0086] Alternatively, the cap 116 may be different from and connected to the star gear 120. For example, the star gear 120 may define a shoulder (or bore) coaxial with the threaded portion 118; and the cap 116 may include a complementary feature that engages with the shoulder (or bore) of the star gear 120, slides along the shoulder (or bore) of the star gear 120, and rotates about the shoulder (or bore). In this embodiment, the cap 116 may also define a recessed spherical cup portion coaxial with the threaded portion 118, the recessed spherical cup portion facing the spherical end 156 and configured to engage and abut against the spherical end 156 when actuated by the pivot control ring 124. The tripod 100 may also include a spring 117 arranged around the shoulder (or within the bore) and configured to bias the rear face of the cap 116 away from the star gear 120 and toward the spherical end 156. Alternatively, a set (e.g., three) of counterbores may be arranged in a radial pattern around the star gear 120 and / or the cap 116, and a set of springs 117 may be placed in these counterbores to offset the rear of the cap 116 away from the star gear 120 and toward the spherical end 156.

[0087] Therefore, spring 117 can press the rear of cap 116 away from the star gear 120 and against the spherical end 156. As pivot control ring 124 rotates toward the locked position, star gear 120 can travel downward along threaded portion 118 and drive toward spherical end 156, causing the shoulder (or bore) to drive into cap 116, thereby compressing spring 117. Furthermore, because cap 116 is radially isolated from star gear 120 and biased against spherical end 156 by spring 117, cap 116 can remain stationary against spherical end 156 as star gear 120 is driven downward toward spherical end 156, thereby reducing wear on cap 116 and spherical end 156. Further rotation of pivot control ring 124 drives front of star gear 120 into contact with rear of cap 116 and then rigidly locks cap 116 against spherical end 156, thereby rigidly locking spherical end 156 between cap 116 and the set of flanges 114.

[0088] More specifically, when the pivot control ring 124 rotates in the first direction, the gear ring integrated into the pivot control ring 124 rotates the set of planetary gears 122, which in turn rotates the sun gear 120 in the first direction, thereby unscrewing the sun gear 120 from the threaded portion 118 of the head 110, thus driving the cap 116 into the lower spherical end 156, and thus clamping the spherical end 156 against the flange 114 extending from the base portion 112 around the lower spherical end 156. Similarly, when the pivot control ring 124 rotates in the opposite direction, the gear ring rotates the set of planetary gears 122, which in turn rotates the sun gear 120 in the second direction, thereby screwing the sun gear 120 into the threaded portion 118 of the head 110, thus retracting the cap 116 from the lower spherical end 156, and thus releasing the spherical end from the lower flange 114.

[0089] Furthermore, when the sun gear 120 retracts from the spherical end 156, the spring 117 can act to drive the cap 116 into the spherical end 156 to maintain minimal friction between the cap 116 and the spherical end 156, thereby preserving the orientation of the head 110 relative to the spherical end and preventing the head 110 from rotating relative to the spherical end 156, such as when the user rotates the pivot control ring 124 in the first direction to tighten the cap 116 against the spherical end 156. More specifically, the spring 117 and the cap 116 can cooperate to resist the torque applied to the pivot control ring 124 so as to prevent the head 110 from rotating relative to the spherical end 156 when the pivot control ring 124 is rotated in the first direction (e.g., with one hand) to tighten the cap 116 onto the spherical end 156.

[0090] 3.4.4 Remote Control Loop

[0091] In one embodiment, the head 110 includes a panning control ring 128. In this embodiment, the head defines an upper body coupled to a base portion 112 and rotatable about a panning axis of the base portion 112. The panning control ring 128 may be disposed between a camera locking ring 126 located on the upper body and a pivot control ring 124 located on the base portion 112, and is configured to lock the upper body to the lower body in response to rotation about the base portion 112 in a first direction. Furthermore, the panning control ring 128 may be configured to unlock the upper body from the base portion 112 in response to rotation in a second direction.

[0092] For example, a control chassis may be coupled to the camera platform 130 via a radial bearing or bushing and define an upper portion including a second threaded portion. The camera platform 130 may include a shoulder adjacent to the upper portion of the control chassis, wherein a pan control ring 128 is screwed onto the second threaded portion and abuts the shoulder of the control chassis. In this example, rotation of the pan control ring 128 in a first direction screws the pan control ring 128 downward onto the second threaded portion, thereby engaging and constraining the shoulder of the camera platform 130 between the pan control ring 128 and the control chassis. Rotation of the pan control ring in a second direction unscrews the pan control ring 128 from the second threaded portion, thereby releasing the shoulder of the camera platform 130 from between the pan control ring 128 and the control chassis and enabling the camera platform 130 to rotate or “pan” about the control chassis.

[0093] The panning control ring 128 can be operated by a user with one hand by radially actuating the ring around the central axis of the head 110.

[0094] 3.4.5 Stacked Control Loop

[0095] The control rings on the head 110 can be stacked on parallel planes, such that all control rings are operated by rotating their respective control rings around a shared central axis (e.g., the central axis of the head 110). This stacked construction allows the user to operate all controls with one hand and produces a compact and robust form factor. Each control ring can have a unique external texture (e.g., spline, knurling, etc.), allowing the user to individually identify each control ring by touch / feel.

[0096] To maintain a small form factor and a small effective diameter, the head 110 may be without a spiral knob or manual knob. Furthermore, each control ring can be fully engaged or disengaged with a single turn (or less), allowing the user to lock or unlock all control rings with a single movement.

[0097] In one embodiment, the head 110 includes a set of stacked control rings, including a camera locking ring 126, a panning control ring 128, and a pivoting control ring 124. The head 110 includes an upper body coupled to a base portion 112 and rotatable about a panning axis of the base portion 112. In this embodiment, the panning control ring 128 is disposed between the camera locking ring 126 located on the upper body of the head 110 and the pivoting control ring 124 located on the base portion 112. Furthermore, the panning control ring 128 can be configured to lock the upper body of the head 110 to the base portion 112 of the head 110 in response to rotation about the base portion 112 in a first direction, and to unlock the upper body from the base portion 112 in response to rotation in a second direction. Therefore, when the upper body is unlocked from the base portion, the user can continue to operate each control ring because the camera locking ring 126 is located on the upper body of the head 110 and interacts with other components on the upper body (e.g., locking tab 132, guide rail 134), and the pivot control ring 124 is located on the base portion 112 and interacts with components on the base portion 112 (e.g., cap 116, star gear 120, planet gear 122) and components extending downwards.

[0098] 3.5 Base Section

[0099] The second side of the base portion 112 includes a set of flanges 114 extending downward from the head 110, the set of flanges 114 forming an exposed spherical socket configured to receive and retain the spherical end 156.

[0100] In one embodiment, the spherical socket includes three flanges 114 spaced 120 degrees around the central axis of the head 110. The flanges 114 can be configured to engage (e.g., nest) between the leg mounts 144 of the hub 140 portion when the tripod 100 is in a fully or partially folded state to improve vertical packing efficiency. Each flange includes a recessed surface on the side facing the inner socket region. A socket bushing can be positioned between the flanges 114 and the spherical end 156. When the pivot control ring 124 engages, the reaction force on the inner surface of the flanges 114 engages with the spherical socket bushing, locking the spherical end 156 in a fixed position.

[0101] In one embodiment, the base portion 112 includes a set of flanges 114, each flange defining a pliable tip that contacts a spherical end 156. The spherical end 156 may include a base material (e.g., an aluminum-based material) and a surface coating deposited on the base material such that the pliable tip of the flange 114 contacts the surface coating of the spherical end 156. A spring 117 of the head 110 may be preloaded to grip the spherical end 156 between the cap 116 and the pliable tip of the set of flanges. In this embodiment, the spring stiffness and preload of the spring 117 may be matched to the surface finish of the spherical end 156 and the coefficient of friction of the pliable tip of the flange 114, thereby maintaining the orientation of the head 110 on the spherical end 156 during rotation of the pivot control ring 124 in a first direction.

[0102] For example, the base portion 112 may include a set of flanges 114, each flange including a rubber end that contacts the spherical end 156 and presents a certain coefficient of friction. The spherical end 156 may be constructed comprising an aluminum-based material and a surface coating deposited on the aluminum-based material. The spring 117 may be preloaded based on the coefficient of friction of the rubber end of the flange 114 and the surface finish of the spherical end 156.

[0103] 4. Hub

[0104] like Figure 10 As shown, the hub 140 includes: a central shaft (e.g., a central bore 142) configured to slidably receive a central post 150; a convex corner 146 extending outward from the central shaft and including a locking assembly configured to engage with the central post 150; and a leg mount 144 arranged radially around the central bore 142 and spaced apart between each pair of adjacent convex corners 146, the leg mount 144 being configured to engage with a leg hinge-joint.

[0105] The leg mount 144, the convex corner 146, and the sub-part of the central shaft can be combined to form a generally hemispherical recess configured to receive the lower portion of the spherical end 156, such that in the fully folded state, the flange 114 of the head 110, the leg mount 144 of the hub 140, and the leg portion enclose the spherical end 156. By configuring the spherical end 156 to nest within the head 110 and hub 140, the tripod 100 exhibits increased vertical and volumetric efficiency while minimizing negative space.

[0106] In one embodiment, the hub 140 portion includes a set of magnets configured to interact with the magnetic features of each other part of the tripod (e.g., head 110, legs 160), such that the tripod 100 remains folded without user interaction.

[0107] 4.1 Center Hole

[0108] The pivot 140 defines a center bore 142 for the tripod 100. The center bore 142 of the pivot 140 can be configured to receive and lock the center post 150 in place. Typically, the center bore 142 defines a non-circular cross-section to prevent rotation of the center post 150 within the center bore 142. The center bore 142 may include bushings (e.g., rubber or bronze bushings) to limit wear on the center post 150 due to its extension and retraction within the pivot 140 over time.

[0109] In one embodiment, the central hole 142 defines a hexagonal cross-section with irregular sides, such that three non-adjacent faces of the central hole 142 each form the inner surface of the pivot convex corner, and the remaining three non-adjacent faces of the central hole 142 each form the inner surface of the base of each leg mounting portion.

[0110] 4.2 Convex corner of the pivot

[0111] The hub 140 includes a set of protruding corners 146 extending outward from the central axis. Each protruding corner may include an inner space to support a primary or secondary locking assembly configured to hold the central column 150 in a fixed or semi-fixed state. In one embodiment, the space between each pair of protruding corners 146 is configured to nest the legs of the tripod 100.

[0112] 4.2.1 Center Column Locking Assembly

[0113] The first convex corner of the hub 140 may include a main locking assembly. The main locking assembly may include a cambered rocker arm positioned within the first convex corner and configured to apply force to the center post 150 when engaged by a threaded hand screw. The rocker arm may be pinned to the bottom end of the rocker arm such that when force is applied at the top end of the rocker arm, the camber angle of the rocker arm (connecting the top and bottom force points) creates a contact area in the central region of the rocker arm. The camber angle of the rocker arm allows the rocker arm to distribute the force applied to the center post 150. Therefore, the thin-walled center post can adequately support the force applied to the center post 150.

[0114] A ball-detent locking assembly may be disposed in the second convex corner of the pivot 140. The ball-detent locking assembly applies force in a first pivot plane orthogonal to the central axis of the tripod 100 to hold the center post 150 in a temporarily fixed position. Each convex corner of the pivot 140 may include a ball-detent locking assembly. When the spring-loaded ball is in a position outside the detent position, the ball continues to apply force to the center post 150.

[0115] In one variation, the main locking assembly includes a knob 148 configured to engage a rocker arm with an outward tilt. The knob 148 may be configured to extend for easier access and adjustment when the tripod 100 is unfolded, and retract when the tripod 100 is folded or stored (e.g., nested between the two legs). For example, the knob 148 may include: a screw defining a threaded end and a splined bore; a shaft (e.g., a steel shaft) defining a first end and a second splined end that press-fits into a cap, the second splined end being configured to extend within the splined bore of the screw and temporarily engage with a magnetic element within the splined bore; and a spring configured to disengage the shaft from the magnetic element in response to a user applying a force to the cap in the direction opposite to the magnetic element (e.g., pulling the cap). In the folded state (e.g., when the tripod 100 is stored), the second end of the shaft is magnetically engaged with and held within the splined bore by the magnetic element within the splined bore. Therefore, in this folded state, the cover can nest between two adjacent legs 160, thereby reducing the cross-section and effective maximum diameter of the tripod 100. However, when the user pulls the cover and overcomes the magnetic connection between the shaft and the magnetic element, the shaft disengages from the magnetic element and moves outward from the spline hole, and the spring holds the shaft in this extended state. In this extended state, the cover of the knob 148 is offset outward from the two adjacent legs, making it easier for the user to access the knob 148 and adjust the position of the center post. To return the cover to the retracted state, the user can press down the cover, thereby overcoming the spring and reconnecting the shaft to the magnetic element.

[0116] 4.3 Outrigger Mounting Components

[0117] Overall, the outrigger mount 144 is configured to connect each leg of the outrigger portion to the hub 140 at the hinge joint. The outrigger mount 144 is also configured such that when the center post 150 is fully pressed into the folded state, the flange 114 of the spherical socket engages between the outrigger mounts 144.

[0118] In one embodiment, the outrigger mount 144 includes multi-stage position stops (or "stops") that allow each outrigger to be locked in at least a first position and a second position. For example, the stops may allow the outriggers of the tripod 100 to operate in a set of positions including: an open position defined by an outrigger extending outward from the hub 140 at a first angle of 25 degrees (+ / - 2 degrees) offset from the central axis; a low position defined by an outrigger extending outward from the hub 140 at a second angle of 75 to 85 degrees (+ / - 2 degrees) offset from the central axis; and a folded position defined by an outrigger approximately parallel to the central axis.

[0119] 4.4 Packaging Structure

[0120] The outrigger mount 144 extends from the hub 140 and is arranged radially around a central axis (e.g., at intervals of 0 degrees, 120 degrees, and 240 degrees). Furthermore, the inner surface of the outrigger mount 140 is freed to allow a spherical end 156 to nest within the hub 140; that is, the inner surface of the outrigger mount 140 is freed to allow the spherical end 156 to fall into the hub 140 and be enclosed within the outrigger mount 144. The hub 140 also defines a gap (or “opening”) between adjacent ends of the adjacent leg mounts 144, and flanges 114 extending downward from the head 110 and radially spaced around the central axis of the head 110 (e.g., at intervals of 0 degrees, 120 degrees, and 240 degrees, like the leg mounts 144) define a width that is (slightly) smaller than the gap width between adjacent leg mounts 144, such that when the tripod 100 is folded, these flanges 114 can nest in these gaps between the leg mounts 144, thereby limiting the overall height of the folded tripod 100 and increasing the volumetric efficiency of the folded tripod 100.

[0121] Furthermore, because the leg mount 144 is detachable from the spherical end 156, the spherical end 156 can define a relatively large diameter, allowing the flange 114 and cap 116 to cooperate in applying a relatively large clamping force to the spherical end 156, and thus supporting a relatively large cantilever mass arranged on the head 110 (e.g., a large telephoto lens mounted on a camera mounted on the head 110), without increasing the height of the tripod 100 or reducing its volumetric efficiency when folded. For example, when the tripod 100 is folded, the diameter of the spherical end 156 can be greater than the minimum distance from the top surface of the pivot convex angle 146 to the bottom surface of the pivot control ring 124.

[0122] In addition, the legs 160 may include magnetic elements and / or ferrous elements arranged near the distal ends of the legs and configured to attract the magnetic elements and / or ferrous elements in the adjacent legs 160 when the tripod 100 is folded, thereby keeping these distal ends of the legs 160 in a very close position and preventing the legs 160 from being accidentally deployed during transport.

[0123] 5. Central column

[0124] The center post 150 can be configured to translate within the center bore 142 of the hub 140. The center post 150 may have a non-circular cross-section to prevent rotation within the center bore 142. In one embodiment, the center post 150 defines a tri-lobed cross-section. In this embodiment, the center bore 142 defines a tri-lobed opening, wherein the lobes 146 are radially centered between the leg mounts 144 of the hub 140.

[0125] In another embodiment, such as Figure 4 As shown, the center post 150 can be divided into a set of center post 150 modules. In this embodiment, the center post 150 includes a center post stub 152 and a center post extension 154, wherein the center post stub 152 may be formed of a different material than the center post extension 154. The center post stub 152 can be attached to or detached from the center post extension 154 via a fastener located within an access point in a spherical end 156, which is accessible when the head 110 is actuated to a full 90-degree configuration. Furthermore, modular elements of the center post 150 can be added to extend the overall height of the tripod 100.

[0126] The center post 152 can be used as the center post 150. In one embodiment, the center post 152 can have sufficient height to provide the head 110 with a full range of motion. The center post 152 can be separated from the center post extension 154 via a fastener within the access point in the spherical end 156, and the access point is accessible between the flanges 114 when the main plane of the head 110 is oriented at 90 degrees relative to the main axis of the tripod 100 (i.e., the main axis of the center post 150).

[0127] Furthermore, when the outrigger 160 is deployed during operation but the central column 150 remains retracted, the head 110 can remain nested within the hub 140 portion, such that the hub 140 portion mechanically engages and holds the head 110, thereby enabling the head 110 to support large cantilever loads (e.g., telephoto lenses) instead of relying on friction between the flange 114, cap 116, and spherical end 156 to support the load.

[0128] The central column 150 can be constructed from a strong and durable material, allowing it to support minimal load. In one embodiment, the central column 150 is constructed from aluminum.

[0129] 5.1 Spherical end

[0130] The spherical end 156 can be coupled to a first end of the central post 150. Typically, the spherical end 156 can be received in a socket of the head 110, allowing the head 110 to pivot about the spherical end 156. In one embodiment, the spherical end 156 is coupled to the end of the central post 150 opposite a set of legs 160 and is configured to nest between the leg mounts 144 of the hub 140.

[0131] In this embodiment, the spherical end 156 can be configured to nest between the leg mounts 144 such that the spherical center of the spherical end 156 falls on or near a horizontal "pivot plane" intersecting the pivot axis of the leg 160, such as being smaller than the spherical radius of the spherical end 156 from the pivot plane. Similarly, the spherical end 156 can be configured to nest between the leg mounts 144 such that the bottom of the spherical end 156 falls below the pivot plane, and that when the head 110 is fully folded into the pivot 140, the bottom of the flange 114 falls below the pivot plane.

[0132] The spherical end 156 may also include a scratch-resistant outer coating. In one embodiment, the spherical end 156 is constructed of an aluminum-based material and includes a scratch-resistant coating (e.g., rubberized or hard anodized) on the aluminum-based material.

[0133] 5.2 Lifting Hook

[0134] The hook 158 can be attached to a second end of the center post 150, allowing a user to suspend bags or heavy objects from the hook 158 for additional stability. Generally, the hook 158 includes: a first projection having a first cross-section that includes a profile matching the inner cross-section of the center post 150; a retractable second projection having a second cross-section that matches the outer cross-section of the center post 150; and a hook. The first projection may include a set of bosses configured to engage with a set of stops on the inner wall of the center post 150. When retracted, the second projection allows the first projection to rotate within the center post 150, allowing the set of bosses to approach the set of stops. When not retracted, the second projection restrains rotation of the hook 158 within the center post 150 by filling the (non-circular) inner cross-section of the center post 150.

[0135] In one embodiment, the hook 158 may also serve as a rigid stop for the center column 150, preventing the user from inadvertently removing the center column 150 completely from the center hole 142 when raising the center axis to its maximum height above the hub 140. For example, the hook 158 may include a first end and a second end, the first end defining a hook configured to carry a heavy object, and the second end opposite the hook and configured to attach to the distal end of the center column opposite the head to prevent the distal end from passing through the center hole of the hub. Therefore, to release the center column 150 from the hub 140, the user can first remove the hook 158 from the bottom end of the center column 150. (After removing the center column 150 from the hub 140, the user can also retrieve the movable mounting 180 from inside the center column 150, as described below.)

[0136] In a variant, such as Figure 6 As shown, the hook 158 may include: a first end defining the hook; and a second end opposite the hook and including a magnetic element configured to be coupled to a corresponding magnetic feature or ferro-containing element integrated into the end of a movable mounting member 180 (described below) housed within the central post 150. In this variant, when the hook 158 is locked into the central post 150, the hook 158 may cooperate with a spring element located within the central post 150 and offset above the hook 158 to restrain the movable mounting member 180 within the central post 150. Furthermore, when the movable mount 180 pops out from the bottom portion of the center post 150 but is held by the spring element, the magnetic element in the hook 158 can be connected to the magnetic element or ferrous element in the movable mount 180 to coaxially align the hook 158 with the hole in the movable mount 180 and the center post 150, thereby providing positive feedback to the user as the user inserts the hook 158 into the center post 150.

[0137] Furthermore, when the tripod 100 is fully retracted, the center column 150 can position the hook 158 as a foot near the end of the leg 160, making the hook physically accessible when the tripod 100 is fully retracted, thereby allowing the user to hook the tripod 100 directly to a bag (e.g., a camera or equipment bag), a strap ring, or other hoops used for transport.

[0138] 5.3 Removable installation components

[0139] like Figure 6 , Figure 7A and Figure 7BAs shown, tripod 100 may also include a foldable mobile phone mount 180 (hereinafter referred to as "movable mount") disposed within a central post 150. Typically, the movable mount 180 may be configured to receive and hold a mobile phone in an open position. The movable mount 180 may be configured to be temporarily attached to a camera platform 130. The movable mount 180 may be folded in a closed position to a diameter smaller than the diameter of the central post 150. In a variation, the movable mount 180 is spring-loaded and magnetically attached within the central post 150 such that when the hook 158 at the end of the central post 150 is removed, the movable mount 180 pops out of the central post 150 and expands into an unfolded configuration for the user to clip a mobile phone therein and then secure the movable mount 180 to the camera platform 130 of tripod 100. Thus, the central post 150 may define a cavity opposite a spherical end 156, which is configured to receive the movable mount 180 in the folded state.

[0140] In one embodiment, the center post 150 defines a distal end configured to receive the hook 158 and includes a spring-loaded stop, wherein a magnetic element is offset above the distal end of the center post 150. In this embodiment, the spring-loaded stop may be offset above the distal end by less than the folded length of the movable mount 180, such that the spring-loaded stop holds the movable mount 180 within the center post 150, wherein a portion (e.g., approximately 10 mm) of the opposite end of the folded movable mount 180 extends beyond the distal end of the center post 150, thereby allowing the hook 158 to be removed from the center post 150 as... Figure 6 As shown, the user can grasp the movable mount 180 and pull it out of the central column 150. However, when the hook 158 is supplied to the end of the movable mount 180 that is suspended outside the central column 150 and is lifted into the central column 150 by the user, the spring-loaded stop can be compressed to accommodate the insertion of the movable mount 180 and the hook 158 into the hole of the central column 150.

[0141] Therefore, the movable mounting 180 may include: a first magnetic feature configured to be magnetically coupled to a spring-loaded stop within the central column 150; and a second magnetic feature opposite to the first magnetic feature configured to engage with an iron-containing component located in the hook 158.

[0142] For example, when the movable mount 180 is folded, it may define a first end including a first magnetic feature and a second end including a second magnetic feature. The first magnetic feature may engage with a magnetic element located within the central post 150, the magnetic element being configured to hold the movable mount 180 within the central post 150. The second magnetic feature may engage with an iron-containing component of the hook 158 such that when the hook 158 is reattached to the tripod 100, the hook 158 may first connect (e.g., magnetically connect) to the movable mount 180. Furthermore, the movable mount 180 may engage with a spring-loaded stop located within the central post 150 such that when the hook 158 is attached to the central post 150, the movable mount 180 is fully inserted into the central post 150, and the spring 117 is compressed. Then, when the hook 158 is removed from the center post 150 (e.g., by a user), the movable mount 180 can disengage from the spring-loaded stop and fall within the center post 150 (e.g., fall one inch), and then the first magnetic feature of the movable mount 180 engages with the magnetic element in the center post 150. Therefore, when the hook is removed, the movable mount 180 can fall slightly within the center post 150 without falling completely out of the center post 150, allowing the user to easily remove the movable mount 180 from the center post 150.

[0143] like Figure 7A As shown, once removed from the hole in the center column 150, the movable mount 180 can be attached to the camera platform 130 to allow a user to mount a mobile device (e.g., a smartphone) to the tripod 100. For example, the user can: remove the hook 158 from the center column 150; pull the movable mount 180 out of the center column 150 in the folded position; extend the movable mount 180 to the open position to hold the side of the mobile device; position the movable mount 180 on the camera platform 130; and then rotate the camera locking ring 126 to lock the movable mount 180 to the camera platform 130. After taking a picture with the mobile device, the user can: remove her mobile device from the mobile mount 180, which releases the mobile mount 180 to automatically return to the folded state; rotate the camera locking ring 126 to unlock the mobile mount 180 from the camera platform 130; remove the mobile mount 180 from the camera platform 130; insert the mobile mount 180 back into the center post 150; and replace the hook 158 at the distal end of the center post 150.

[0144] 5.4 Geometry of the Central Column

[0145] In one embodiment, the center post 150 defines a triangular cross-section, wherein each convex angle is radially centered between two adjacent legs 160 extending from the leg mount. In this embodiment, the recessed surface of the center post 150 between adjacent convex angles 146 provides spacing for the legs 160 of the tripod 100 to allow for tighter folding and to enable the tripod 100 to be reduced to a smaller maximum width when fully folded, such as... Figure 1 As shown. Furthermore, the convex angle 146 of the tripod 100 (radially offset by 120° around the central column 150) generates a larger effective moment of inertia under greater loads (e.g., a large camera and / or lens loaded onto the camera platform 130) and at a larger extension above the leg mount 144 of the hub, thus resulting in less deflection and vibration. More specifically, the tri-convex central column 150 defines three recessed surfaces radially offset by 120° and creates a larger spacing along the inner surface of the legs 160, allowing the legs 160 to pack into a smaller volume when fully retracted and closed. Moreover, the tri-convex central column 150 exhibits a larger effective moment of inertia than a circular or hexagonal column of the same size between the recessed surfaces, enabling the central column 150 to bear greater loads at a higher height above the leg mount 144 of the hub with less deflection and lower vibration amplitude.

[0146] In another embodiment, the center post 150 defines a cross-section comprising multiple sides, the number of which is equal to twice the number of protrusions 146 extending from adjacent legs of the leg mount. For example, the center post 150 may define an irregular hexagonal cross-section having a first set of three sides, each having a first length, and a second set of three sides, each having a second length. In this embodiment, the spherical end 156 includes three flanges 114, and the pivot 140 includes three protrusions 146. The center post can be dynamically locked in place by a screw locking mechanism threaded along an axis orthogonal to the central main axis.

[0147] 6. Support legs

[0148] Each outrigger 160 includes a outrigger portion 162 configured to nest within an adjacent outrigger portion 162 by sliding along a shared axis. Smaller outrigger portions 162 can be locked in place by a set of outrigger portion locks 172 (or “clamp assemblies”). The outrigger portion locks 172 are actuated by a flip lock (e.g., a C-clamp) adjacent to each outrigger joint. Overall, the height defined by the outrigger portion locks 172 is significantly shorter than the height of the outrigger portions 162. In one embodiment, each outrigger 160 includes five distinct outrigger portions 162.

[0149] Each outrigger can open outward from the central vertical axis up to an angle defined by a multi-stage outrigger position stop (or "stop"). Each outrigger is configured to further open to a second angle defined by at least the outrigger locking assembly in response to actuation of the multi-stage outrigger position stop.

[0150] In one embodiment, each leg includes an axle with six faces (three facing inward and three facing outward) such that when the tripod 100 is in a fully folded state, each inward face of each leg is positioned parallel to the inward face of the adjacent leg or the face of the central column.

[0151] Furthermore, because the width defined by each leg (e.g., the arc length spanning around the central axis) is greater than the depth of each leg, each leg of tripod 100 can exhibit a larger area moment of inertia on its bending axis and exhibit less deflection when subjected to sway loads compared to circular legs. Therefore, as the user rotates the camera mounted on head 110, such as when panning to capture video of a car driving by, the legs 160 can cooperate to resist deflection during swaying and minimize vibrations during swaying.

[0152] 6.1 Outrigger Components and Lightweight Mode

[0153] In a variant, such as Figure 9A and Figure 9B As shown, the lower telescopic leg section can be removed from the uppermost leg section and can be replaced by the foot 164 insert of each leg of the tripod 100 to reduce the overall weight of the tripod 100, such as when the user is carrying a backpack or in other situations where it is desirable to reduce the weight of the pack.

[0154] In one implementation, such as Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown, the first leg of the tripod 100 includes a first, uppermost leg portion that defines: a proximal end of a leg mount 144 pivotally connected to a pivot; a distal end defining a notch extending circumferentially around a transverse side of the first leg portion; and a distal end including a perforation, recess, or other engagement feature opposite the notch and configured to retain a foot 164, as described below.

[0155] In this embodiment, the first leg of the tripod 100 also includes an upper clamp assembly 170. The upper clamp assembly 170 includes a C-shaped clamp body defining: a longitudinal split extending along the entire height of the C-shaped clamp body; a clamp hole (e.g., ±1 mm) having an internal cross-section approximating the external cross-section of the distal end of the first leg portion; a lower clamp flange adjacent to a first side of the longitudinal split; an upper clamp flange adjacent to the first side of the longitudinal split and located above the lower clamp flange; a lower clamp surface adjacent to a second side of the longitudinal split and facing the lower clamp flange; and an upper clamp surface adjacent to the second side of the longitudinal split and facing the upper clamp flange. The upper clamping assembly also includes a leg bushing: the leg bushing is disposed inside a clamping hole near the bottom of the C-shaped clamping body to fill the gap between the clamping hole and the outer surface of the second leg portion extending within the clamping hole; and the leg bushing includes a flange configured to insert into the distal end of the first leg portion and fill the gap between the inner hole of the first leg portion and the outer surface of the second leg portion extending within the first leg portion.

[0156] In this embodiment, the upper clamp assembly 170 further includes a lower clamp: the lower clamp temporarily pivots in a lower clamp surface; the lower clamp is coupled to a lower clamp flange; the lower clamp is configured to pull the lower clamp flange down to the lower clamp surface in a closed position to compress the C-shaped clamp body around a second leg portion extending within the C-shaped clamp body, thereby locking the upper clamp assembly 170 to the second leg portion; and the lower clamp is configured to release the lower clamp flange from the lower clamp surface in an open position to release the C-shaped clamp body from the second leg portion, thereby allowing the second leg portion to extend and retract within the first leg portion. Furthermore, the upper clamp assembly 170 includes: an upper clamp that temporarily pivots in an upper clamp surface; the upper clamp being coupled to an upper clamp flange; the upper clamp being configured to pull the upper clamp flange to the upper clamp surface in a closed position to compress the C-shaped clamp body around the distal end of the first leg portion, thereby locking the upper clamp assembly 170 to the first leg portion; and the upper clamp being configured to release the upper clamp flange from the upper clamp surface in an open position to release the C-shaped clamp body from the first leg portion, and to enable the removal of the upper clamp assembly 170, all lower leg portions, and all lower clamp assemblies from the first leg portion.

[0157] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the C-shaped clamp body defines a transverse slit extending laterally from both sides of the longitudinal slit between the upper clamp flange and the lower clamp flange. The C-shaped clamp body positions the transverse slit adjacent to a recess that extends circumferentially around a transverse side of the distal end of the first leg portion, thereby isolating the C-shaped clamp body from compression applied to the distal end of the first leg portion rather than to the lower second leg portion by the upper clamp in the closed position, and similarly, isolating the C-shaped clamp body from compression applied to the proximal end of the second leg portion rather than to the upper first leg portion by the lower clamp in the closed position.

[0158] The first leg may include additional leg portions (e.g., a second leg portion, a third leg portion, etc.), wherein a C-shaped clamp assembly (e.g., leg lock 172) is inserted between these lower leg portions, such as Figure 5 , Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown. In addition, each of the other legs in the tripod 100 may include a leg portion of similar geometry and may include a similar upper clamp assembly.

[0159] like Figure 9A and Figure 9B As shown, tripod 100 may also include a set of legs. In this variation, the legs include a proximal end configured to insert into a distal end of the upper leg portion of a particular leg when the upper clamp assembly 170 and the lower leg portion are removed from the upper leg portion of that particular leg of tripod 100. The proximal end of the leg includes a stop configured to engage a perforation, recess, or other feature defined at the distal end of the upper leg portion to temporarily hold the leg to that leg portion. Furthermore, the leg includes a leg surface extending longitudinally from the proximal end of the leg.

[0160] Therefore, for full-assembly mode with full height adjustment, the user: places the lower leg portion and upper clamp assembly into each first leg portion; and places the center column extension 154 onto the center column short column 152. To reduce weight and maintain a certain height adjustment range in lightweight mode, the user: removes the lower leg portion and upper clamp assembly from each first leg portion; places the legs into the distal ends of each first leg portion; and retains the center column extension 154 on the center column short column 152. To minimize weight in full-lightweight mode, the user: removes the lower leg portion and upper clamp assembly from each first leg portion; places the legs into the distal ends of each first leg portion; and removes the center column extension 154 from the center column 150. However, in full-lightweight mode, the tripod 100 may still be able to perform some height adjustment. For example, a user can place the center post 152 in the center hole 142 of the hub 140, wherein the control chassis extends above the hub 140 (e.g., when the camera is upright) or below the outrigger mount 144 of the hub (e.g., when the camera is inverted).

[0161] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art from the foregoing detailed description and from the accompanying drawings and claims, modifications and variations can be made to embodiments of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A tripod, comprising: - Hub: The pivot defines a central hole, which defines a non-circular cross-section; and The hub includes a set of leg mounts arranged around the central hole; - A set of outriggers, each of which is pivotally connected to a outrigger mount in the set of outrigger mounts; - Central column: The central column includes a spherical end; and The central post is configured to translate linearly within the central hole; as well as - A head, pivotally coupled to the spherical end, and comprising: -- Base section; -- A camera platform disposed above the base portion, the camera platform being configured to temporarily receive a camera adapter connected to a camera; -- A cap, the cap being disposed above the spherical end within the base portion; and -- A pivot control ring, which is arranged around the base portion and is configured such that: In response to rotation about the base portion in a first direction, the cap is driven into the spherical end to fix the orientation of the head on the spherical end; and In response to rotation about the base portion in a second direction, the cap is retracted from the spherical end to detach and secure the head from the spherical end.

2. The tripod according to claim 1: The head also includes: -- A set of flanges arranged in a radial pattern, the set of flanges extending below the base portion and opposite the camera platform, the set of flanges extending around a portion of the spherical end and configured to nest between the leg mounts; -- A threaded portion, which extends along the central axis of the head and is disposed above the spherical end; -- A stellar gear, which is threaded onto the threaded portion and configured to translate along the threaded portion when rotated; -- A spring, which is disposed between the cap and the stellar gear and is configured to press the cap against the spherical end; as well as -- A set of planetary gears arranged around and meshing with the star gear; The cap is arranged on the star gear and faces the spherical end; and The pivot control ring includes a gear ring that meshes with the set of planetary gears, and the gear ring is configured such that: In response to rotation about the base portion in the first direction, the sun gear rotates about the threaded portion via the set of planetary gears, driving the cap toward the spherical end, clamping the spherical end against the set of flanges, and fixing the orientation of the head on the spherical end; as well as In response to rotation in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the star gear is rotated around the threaded portion via the set of planetary gears, retracting the cap from the spherical end and unlocking the head from the spherical end.

3. The tripod according to claim 1: The camera platform defines a guide rail and a locking tab; and The head also includes a camera locking ring: The camera locking ring is positioned near the pivot control ring; The camera locking ring is concentric with the pivot control ring; and The camera locking ring is configured to drive the locking tab toward the guide rail to temporarily lock the camera adapter between the locking tab and the guide rail.

4. The tripod according to claim 3: The head also includes an upper body that is connected to the base portion and is rotatable about the tilting axis of the base portion; The camera locking ring is arranged on the upper body; The pivot control ring is arranged on the base portion; and The head also includes a panning control ring: The panning control ring is inserted between the base portion and the upper main body; The panning control ring is configured to lock the upper body to the base portion in response to rotation in the first direction; and The panning control ring is configured to unlock the upper body from the base portion in response to rotation in the second direction.

5. The tripod according to claim 1, wherein, The head also includes a spring: The spring is arranged behind the cap, opposite to the spherical end; and The spring is configured to bias the cap onto the spherical end to prevent the head from rotating relative to the spherical end during rotation of the pivot control ring in the first direction.

6. The tripod according to claim 5: The spherical end comprises an aluminum-based material and a surface coating, the surface coating being applied to the surface of the aluminum-based material; The tripod also includes a set of flanges that extend below the base portion around a portion of the spherical end. Each of the set of flanges includes a flexible end of a set of flexible ends that contacts the surface coating of the spherical end; and The spring is preloaded to grip the spherical end between the cap and the set of flexible ends of the set of flanges.

7. The tripod according to claim 1: The tripod also includes a movable mounting component, which is configured to: Temporarily attached to the aforementioned camera platform; and From a folded state to an open state to keep the mobile device in place; and The central post defines a cavity opposite the spherical end, the cavity being configured to accommodate the movable mounting in the folded state.

8. The tripod according to claim 1: Each of the aforementioned set of outriggers: It is configured to extend retractably from the hub; The width is defined to exceed the depth of the support leg; Includes an upper outrigger portion, the upper outrigger portion defining a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being pivotally connected to an outrigger mount in the set of outrigger mounts; and It includes a lower support leg portion, which is configured to be temporarily nested within the upper support leg portion.

9. The tripod according to claim 8: The lower support leg portion is removable from the upper support leg portion; and The upper support leg portion includes an upper clamping assembly, which includes: - Fixture body, the fixture body defining: -- A longitudinal slit that extends along the height of the clamp body; -- A clamping hole, the internal cross-section of which approximates the external cross-section of the distal end; -- Lower clamping flange, which is adjacent to the first side of the longitudinal slit; -- The upper clamping flange is adjacent to the first side of the longitudinal slit and is located above the lower clamping flange; -- The lower clamping surface, which is adjacent to the second side of the longitudinal slit and faces the lower clamping flange; and -- The upper clamping surface, which is adjacent to the second side of the longitudinal slit and faces the upper clamping flange; as well as - Leg bushings: The outrigger bushing is disposed within the clamp hole, near the bottom of the clamp body, to fill the gap between the clamp hole and the outer surface of the lower outrigger portion extending within the clamp hole; and The outrigger bushing includes a flange configured to insert into the distal end to fill the gap between the internal hole of the upper outrigger portion and the outer surface of the lower outrigger portion extending within the upper outrigger portion.

10. The tripod according to claim 9, wherein, The upper clamp assembly also includes: - Lower clamp: The lower clamp temporarily pivots within the surface of the lower clamp; The lower clamp is connected to the lower clamp flange; The lower clamp is configured to pull the lower clamp flange toward the lower clamp surface in the closed position to compress the clamp body around the lower support leg portion extending within the clamp body, and to lock the upper clamp assembly to the lower support leg portion; and The lower clamp is configured to release the lower clamp flange from its surface in the open position to release the clamp body from the lower leg portion, and to allow the lower leg portion to extend and retract within the upper leg portion; and - Upper clamp: The upper clamp temporarily pivots within the surface of the upper clamp; The upper clamp is connected to the upper clamp flange; The upper clamp is configured to pull the upper clamp flange toward the upper clamp surface in the closed position to compress the clamp body around the distal end of the upper leg portion and lock the upper clamp assembly to the upper leg portion; and The upper clamp is configured to release the upper clamp flange from the upper clamp surface in the open position to release the clamp body from the upper leg portion, thereby enabling the upper clamp assembly to be removed from the upper leg portion and enabling the lower leg portion to be removed from the upper leg portion.

11. The tripod according to claim 1: The central hole defines a tri-convex opening, the protrusions of which are radially centered among the leg mounts in the set of leg mounts; and The central post defines a tri-convex central post, the tri-convex central post defines a tri-convex cross section, the tri-convex central post is configured to align with the tri-convex opening of the hub, and the convex angle of the tri-convex central post is configured to translate linearly within the convex angle of the tri-convex opening.

12. The tripod of claim 11, wherein each of the set of legs defines: The width spanning the arc length surrounding the central column; as well as The depth extending outward from the central column is less than the width; and Each of the set of legs includes an axis defining a set of surfaces, the set of surfaces including: The inner surface faces the central pillar and is configured to temporarily nest against the central pillar.

13. The tripod according to claim 1: The set of legs is configured to pivot about a pivot axis intersecting the horizontal pivot plane; and The spherical end thereof: The spherical end is characterized by its spherical center and spherical radius; and The spherical end is configured to nest between the leg mounts, wherein the offset of the spherical center from the horizontal pivot plane is less than the spherical radius.

14. A tripod, comprising: - Spherical end; as well as - A head, pivotally coupled to the spherical end, and the head comprising: -- Base section; -- A camera platform, which is disposed above the base portion and configured to be temporarily connected to a camera; -- A threaded portion, which extends along the central axis of the head and is disposed above the spherical end; -- A celestial gear, which is threaded onto the threaded portion and configured to translate along the threaded portion when rotated; -- A cap, which is disposed on the star gear and faces the spherical end; -- A set of planetary gears, which mesh with the star gear; -- A set of flanges extending radially around a portion of the spherical end from the base portion; and -- A pivot control ring, arranged around the base portion, meshing with the set of planetary gears, and configured as follows: In response to rotation in the first direction, the sun gear rotates about the threaded portion via the set of planetary gears, driving the cap toward the spherical end, clamping the spherical end against the set of flanges, and fixing the orientation of the head on the spherical end; and In response to rotation in the second direction, the star gear rotates around the threaded portion via the set of planetary gears, retracting the cap from the spherical end and unlocking the head from the spherical end.

15. The tripod according to claim 14: The camera platform defines a guide rail and a locking tab; and The tripod also includes a camera locking ring: The camera locking ring is positioned near the pivot control ring; The camera locking ring is concentric with the pivot control ring; and The camera locking ring is configured to drive the locking tab toward the guide rail to temporarily lock the camera adapter between the locking tab and the guide rail.

16. The tripod according to claim 14: The tripod also includes: - A hub that defines a central bore and a set of leg mounts arranged radially around the central bore; as well as - A set of legs, each of which is pivotally connected to a leg mount in the set of leg mounts and configured to extend retractably downward from the pivot; and The set of flanges is configured to nest between the leg mounts.

17. The tripod according to claim 16: The tripod also includes a central column: The central column is configured to translate within the central hole of the hub; and The central column defines a first non-circular cross-section, the first non-circular cross-section including a set of concave surfaces; The central hole defines a second non-circular cross-section, which is configured to prevent the central post from rotating within the central hole; and The spherical end is connected to the end of the central column and is configured to be nested between the leg mounts.

18. A tripod, comprising: - Hub: The hub defines a central hole, which defines a first non-circular cross-section; The hub includes a set of hub protrusions extending outward from the central hole; and The hub includes a set of leg mounts arranged radially around the central hole, each of the set of leg mounts being arranged between adjacent hub protrusions in the set of hub protrusions; - Central column: The central column includes a spherical end; The central post is configured to translate linearly within the central hole; and The central post defines a second non-circular cross-section, which is configured to be nested within the first non-circular cross-section of the central hole; - A set of outriggers, each of which is pivotally connected to a outrigger mount in the set of outrigger mounts; as well as - A head, pivotally coupled to the spherical end, and comprising: -- Base section; -- A camera platform, disposed above the base portion and configured to temporarily receive a camera adapter connected to a camera; and -- A pivot control ring, which is arranged around the base portion and is configured such that: The orientation of the head on the spherical end is fixed in response to rotation about the base portion in a first direction, and The orientation of the head on the spherical end is unlocked in response to rotation about the base portion in a second direction.

19. The tripod according to claim 18: The central hole defines a triangular opening, which in turn defines the first non-circular cross-section; and The central post defines a tri-convex central post, which defines the second non-circular cross-section, wherein each convex angle of the tri-convex central post is: It is configured to translate linearly within the corresponding convex angle of the three convex angle opening; The adjacent legs in the set of legs are radially centered; and The adjacent convex angles of the three-convex-angled central column are offset by 120 degrees.

20. The tripod according to claim 19: The convex angles of the three-convex-angle openings are radially centered between the support leg mounts of the hub; The central post defines a set of concave surfaces between adjacent convex angles of the three-convex central post; and Each of the set of legs is configured to nest with a concave surface of the set of concave surfaces of the three-convex-angled central post in the closed position.

21. A tripod, comprising: - A hub that defines a central aperture; - A set of legs, each of which is pivotally or retractably coupled to the hub and configured to extend telescopically away from the hub; - A central column, the central column including a first non-circular cross section configured to translate within the central hole; - The spherical end located on the central column; as well as - A head, which is attached to the spherical end, and the head includes: -- Base section; -- A camera platform, which is disposed above the base portion and configured to temporarily receive a camera adapter; -- A fixed guide rail extending from the camera platform and defining a first undercut portion, the first undercut portion being configured to temporarily mate with a first slope of the camera adapter; and -- A second undercut portion, configured to temporarily engage with a second slope of the camera adapter to hold the camera adapter between the fixed guide rail and the second undercut portion on the camera platform.

22. The tripod according to claim 21: in, The central aperture defines a second non-circular cross-section, which is configured to prevent the central post from rotating within the central aperture; and The central column includes the first non-circular cross-section nested within the second non-circular cross-section of the central hole.

23. The tripod according to claim 22, wherein, The central column has a triangular cross-section.

24. The tripod according to claim 21: in, The central pillar defines the central axis; and Each of the set of outriggers is configured as follows: It sits approximately parallel to the central axis at the folded position; In the first open position, it sits outwardly from the hub at a first angle to the central axis; and It is positioned at a low position, extending outward from the hub at a second angle to the central axis, the second angle exceeding the first angle.

25. The tripod according to claim 21, wherein, Each of the legs in the set includes: - Upper support leg portion, the upper support leg portion defining: -- A proximal end, said proximal end being pivotally or retractably coupled to said hub; and -- The distal end opposite to the proximal end; and - A first lower support leg portion in a set of lower support leg portions, the first lower support leg portion being configured as follows: The upper support leg extends and retracts within the upper support leg portion to sit within the upper support leg portion in the retracted position; and It unfolds from the retracted position to extend from the distal end of the upper leg portion in the extended position.

26. The tripod according to claim 21: in, The head is pivotally connected to the spherical end and also includes a set of flanges, the set of flanges being: Extending from the base portion relative to the camera platform; as well as Extending around a portion of the spherical end; and The pivot controller is configured as follows: In response to rotation in the first direction, the spherical end is clamped against the set of flanges to fix the orientation of the head on the spherical end; as well as In response to rotation in the second direction, the spherical end is released from the set of flanges to detach and fix the head from the spherical end.

27. The tripod according to claim 26, wherein, The set of flanges and the spherical end are configured to nest within the pivot in the folded position.

28. The tripod according to claim 21: in, The second undercut portion is formed by a locking tab that is movably coupled to the camera platform and configured to change from a closed position to an open position to retract the second undercut portion away from the fixed guide rail.

29. The tripod according to claim 28, wherein, The head also includes a camera lock controller configured to restrict the retraction of the locking tab away from the fixed guide rail to temporarily lock the camera adapter between the first undercut portion of the fixed guide rail and the second undercut portion of the locking tab.

30. The tripod according to claim 28, wherein, The head is configured as follows: During panning, rotate 360 ​​degrees relative to the spherical end; and It pivots 180 degrees around the spherical end while tilted.

31. The tripod according to claim 21, further comprising a hook, the hook comprising: A first end portion defines a hook portion configured to carry a weight. as well as The second end is opposite to the hook portion and is configured to be attached to the distal end of the central post opposite the spherical end.

32. The tripod according to claim 21, wherein, The central column is divided into a set of central column modules.

33. A tripod comprising a central post and a set of legs, wherein, The central column includes: A set of convex angles, the set of convex angles being arranged in a radial pattern; and A set of faces, each arranged between adjacent convex corners; and Each of the set of legs is configured to be nested between adjacent convex corners in the folded position.

34. The tripod of claim 33, wherein each of the set of legs comprises: - Upper support leg portion, the upper support leg portion defining: -- Proximal end, which is pivotally or retractably connected to the hub; as well as -- The distal end opposite to the proximal end; - A first lower leg portion in a set of lower leg portions, the first lower leg portion being configured to extend and retract within the upper leg portion to sit within the upper leg portion; as well as - A first leg portion locking member in a set of leg portion locking members, the first leg portion locking member being configured as follows: In response to rotation in a third-party direction, the first lower support leg portion is locked to the upper support leg portion; as well as In response to rotation in the fourth direction, the first lower support leg portion is unlocked from the upper support leg portion.

35. The tripod according to claim 33: in, Each of the legs in the set is configured such that: Extends scalably away from the hub; It sits approximately parallel to the central axis of the central column at the folded position; as well as From the folded position to the range of positions extending outward from the hub; and A set of faces of the central column are arranged around the central column and configured to receive the set of legs in the folded position.

36. The tripod according to claim 33, wherein, The central column has a triangular cross-section with three convex corners and three concave surfaces.

37. The tripod according to claim 33, wherein, The central column has a hexagonal cross-section with irregular sides. The irregular sides have a first group of three non-adjacent sides and a second group of three non-adjacent sides. The first group of three non-adjacent sides each has a first length, and the second group of three non-adjacent sides each has a second length, such that the first group of three non-adjacent sides forms the set of convex angles and the second group of three non-adjacent sides forms the surface.

38. A tripod, comprising: - A set of support legs; as well as - A head, which is connected to the set of legs and includes: -- A camera platform configured to temporarily receive a camera adapter on its upper surface and define a channel arranged along a first side of the camera platform; -- A protruding fixed guide rail, the protruding fixed guide rail extending from a second side of the camera platform and defining a first undercut portion, the first undercut portion being configured to temporarily engage with a first slope of the camera adapter; -- A pivot, defining a pivot axis offset from the upper surface relative to the camera adapter; and -- Locking tab, the locking tab: It is pivotally connected to the pivot and extends through the channel; A second undercut portion is defined, which is configured to temporarily mate with a second slope of the camera adapter to hold the camera adapter against the camera platform between the protruding fixing rail and the locking tab; and It is configured to pivot about the pivot in response to a force applied to the locking tab, so as to retract the second undercut portion away from the fixed guide rail of the protrusion.

39. The tripod according to claim 38: It also includes spherical ends; in, The head is pivotally connected to the spherical end.

40. The tripod according to claim 39, wherein, The head is configured as follows: During panning, rotate 360 ​​degrees relative to the spherical end; and It pivots 180 degrees around the spherical end while tilted.

41. The tripod according to claim 38: in, The second undercut portion of the locking tab is configured to temporarily engage with the second slope of the camera adapter in the closed position, wherein the second undercut portion sits on and abuts against the second slope in the closed position; The first undercut portion of the protruding fixed guide rail is configured to temporarily engage with the first slope of the camera adapter in the closed position, wherein the first undercut portion sits on and abuts against the first slope in the closed position. Wherein, the pivot is arranged in the closed position along a vector that intersects and is orthogonal to the second undercut portion; and The locking tab is configured to pivot about the pivot in response to a downward force applied to the locking tab, so as to retract the second undercut portion away from the fixed guide rail of the protrusion within the channel, the downward force applying a first torque to the locking tab that exceeds a fixed torque and is opposite to the fixed torque.

42. The tripod of claim 38, wherein the locking tab is configured as follows: The fixed guide rail of the protrusion cooperates to temporarily hold the camera adapter against the camera platform in the closed position; and During the mounting of the camera adapter on the camera platform, it pivots about the pivot in response to a downward force applied to the locking tab to retract the second undercut portion away from the fixed guide rail of the protrusion, thereby receiving the camera adapter on the camera platform.

43. The tripod according to claim 38: Also includes: - A hub that defines a central hole and includes a set of leg mounts arranged around the central hole; - A central post, the central post having a spherical end and being configured to translate linearly within the central hole; as well as - A cap, which is disposed on the spherical end; Each of the set of outriggers is pivotally connected to a outrigger mount in the set of outrigger mounts; and The pivot controller is configured as follows: In response to rotation in the first direction, the cap is driven into the spherical end to fix the orientation of the head on the spherical end; and In response to rotation in the second direction, the cap is retracted from the spherical end to detach and secure the head from the spherical end.

44. The tripod according to claim 38, further comprising: A spherical end, which is pivotally connected to the head; as well as A friction locking element, the friction locking element being configured to fix the orientation of the head on the spherical end.

45. The tripod according to claim 38: It also includes a movable mounting component, which is configured to: The camera adapter is temporarily connected to the camera platform in place of the camera adapter; and From a folded state to an open state to keep the mobile device in place; and in, The locking tab is configured to cooperate with the fixed guide rail of the protrusion to temporarily hold the movable mount on the camera platform.

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