Photographic equipment supporting device
By integrating a flow channel into the photographic equipment support device and using a hydraulic or pneumatic medium to drive the locking mechanism, the feet can be adjusted synchronously, solving the problems of cumbersome adjustment and inconvenience of existing devices, and improving operational efficiency and stability.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202511611261.1
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-11-05
- Publication Date
- 2026-01-09
AI Technical Summary
Existing camera equipment support devices require the operation of multiple locking knobs one by one when adjusting the length of the legs, making the adjustment process cumbersome and time-consuming. In addition, the multiple oil pipes connected in the hydraulic system make the device inconvenient to carry and prone to leakage.
The design integrates the flow channel into the support base. A single drive mechanism drives the transmission medium from the inlet to the outlet of the flow channel, achieving synchronous switching of the locking mechanism. This simplifies the adjustment process and reduces external piping. The locking mechanism is driven by hydraulic or pneumatic medium to unlock and lock the legs.
The adjustment process has been simplified, the operating efficiency has been improved, the portability and stability of the device have been enhanced, it can adapt to a variety of shooting environments, and the wear and tear of mechanical clamping mechanisms and the mess of pipelines have been avoided.
Smart Images

Figure CN121296859A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of general photographic apparatus, and in particular to a photographic equipment support device. Background Technology
[0002] A photographic equipment support is a device used to fix and support photographic equipment, such as a tripod or similar structure. Its main purpose is to provide a stable support platform, allowing photographic equipment to be shot at different heights and angles, ensuring image clarity and adapting to various shooting environments, such as outdoor terrain or indoor settings.
[0003] Existing camera equipment support devices typically adjust the outriggers using manual knobs or mechanical clamping mechanisms. Specifically, the outriggers consist of multiple tubular sections, and users must operate the locking knob on each outrigger individually to loosen or lock the relative positions of the tubular sections, thereby adjusting the length of the outriggers.
[0004] However, the existing adjustment method has many problems, such as the need to handle the unlocking and locking of multiple outriggers separately, which makes the adjustment process cumbersome and time-consuming. Summary of the Invention
[0005] The main purpose of this application is to propose a photographic equipment support device, which aims to improve the ease of operation, portability and overall stability of the photographic equipment support device.
[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this application proposes a photographic equipment support device, comprising: A support base, the main plane of which is used to mount photographic equipment; Multiple support legs are spaced apart on the periphery of the main plane. Each support leg includes a first leg tube component and a second leg tube component. The first leg tube component is connected to the support base, and the second leg tube component is movably connected to the first leg tube component. A locking mechanism is provided on the support leg, the locking mechanism having a locking position for configuring the first leg tube member and the second leg tube member in a relatively fixed state, and an unlocking position for configuring the first leg tube member and the second leg tube member in a movable state; A flow channel, at least partially disposed in the support base, having an inlet and an outlet, for accommodating a transmission medium, and the outlet being connected to the locking mechanism; A drive mechanism connected to the inlet is used to drive the transmission medium to drive the locking mechanism, so that the locking mechanism tends to the locked position or the unlocked position.
[0007] In some embodiments, the flow channel is formed inside the support base, and the flow inlet and the flow outlet are located on the side of the support base away from the main plane.
[0008] In some embodiments, the support base includes a base and a bottom cover detachably connected to the base. The base also includes a secondary plane opposite to the main plane. The secondary plane is recessed with at least one groove. The bottom cover is disposed at the opening of the groove so that the flow channel is formed between the groove and the bottom cover. The inlet and outlet are opened on the bottom cover and are disposed corresponding to the groove.
[0009] In some embodiments, the groove is an annular groove, the bottom cover is annularly arranged, and the side of the bottom cover facing the groove has an annular flange that can extend into the groove. The annular flange and the annular groove are connected in a sealing manner by a sealing member.
[0010] In some embodiments, the first leg tube member is rotatably connected to the support base; the photographic equipment support device further includes a flexible connector for connecting the outlet and the locking mechanism.
[0011] In some embodiments, a first rotatable connection portion is provided at the end of the first leg tube member away from the second leg tube member, and a second rotatable connection portion is provided on the periphery of the support base. The first rotatable connection portion and the second rotatable connection portion are rotatably connected by a rotating shaft, and the flexible connecting member can be wound around the rotating shaft.
[0012] In some embodiments, the second rotating connection portion is configured as an opening, the first rotating connection portion is block-shaped and can extend into the opening, the middle portion of the first rotating connection portion is thinned to form an avoidance notch, the rotating shaft portion passing through the first rotating connection portion is exposed in the avoidance notch, and the flexible connecting member can be wrapped around the portion of the rotating shaft exposed in the avoidance notch.
[0013] In some embodiments, the flexible connecting member is a helical spring tube, the middle part of which is helically sleeved on the rotating shaft, and the two ends of the helical spring tube are respectively connected to the outlet and the locking mechanism.
[0014] In some embodiments, the first leg tube component includes an adapter, a first connecting seat, and two first tubes. One end of the adapter is provided with a first rotating connecting portion for rotatably connecting the support base. The two first tubes are spaced apart at the other end of the adapter. The first connecting seat is connected to the end of the two first tubes away from the adapter. The first connecting seat has a through hole. The second foot tube component includes a slide, a second connecting seat, and at least one second tube. The two ends of the slide are slidably fitted onto the two first tubes. The second tube is located between the two first tubes, with one end connected to the slide and the other end passing through the through hole to connect to the second connecting seat. The end of the second connecting seat away from the second tube is used to support the ground.
[0015] In some embodiments, the driving mechanism includes a driving handle and a driving cylinder, the locking mechanism includes an actuating cylinder and a locking device, the driving cylinder is connected to the inlet, the driving handle is used to drive the driving cylinder, the actuating cylinder is connected to the outlet, the output end of the actuating cylinder is used to drive the locking device, and the locking device has the locked position and the unlocked position; The drive handle is used to drive the drive cylinder so that the output end of the actuator cylinder drives the lock to the locked position or the unlocked position.
[0016] In this embodiment, the flow channel is integrated into the support base. A single drive mechanism drives the transmission medium from the inlet of the flow channel to the outlet, and further transmits it to each locking mechanism. This enables synchronous switching of the locking position (fixing the first and second leg tube components) and the unlocking position (allowing relative movement). This eliminates the need for multiple external pipelines or individual operations, thereby simplifying the adjustment steps, shortening the time, reducing pipeline clutter, and improving overall compactness and stability. Attached Figure Description
[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the photographic equipment support device in one embodiment of the present application; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A structural schematic diagram of a single leg and support base of a photographic equipment support device applied for in this application; Figure 3 for Figure 2 Enlarged view of a portion of point A in the middle; Figure 4 This is an exploded view of the support base of the photographic equipment support device in one embodiment of the present application; Figure 5 for Figure 4 A partial structural diagram of the central support base; Figure 6 The image shows a top view of the support base of the photographic equipment support device in one embodiment of the present application, and a cross-sectional view at point AA in the top view. Figure 7 for Figure 1 A structural schematic diagram of a single leg of the photographic equipment support device applied for in this application; Figure 8 for Figure 7A magnified view of a portion of point B in the middle. Detailed Implementation
[0018] The solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only the first cosmetic packaging bag embodiment in this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.
[0019] It should be noted that all directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) in the embodiments of this application are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of each component in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indicator will also change accordingly.
[0020] It should also be noted that when a component is described as "fixed to" or "set on" another component, it can be directly on the other component or there may be an intervening component present. When a component is described as "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be an intervening component present.
[0021] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "first" and "second" in this application is for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. Additionally, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but only on the basis of being achievable by those skilled in the art. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, such a combination of technical solutions should be considered non-existent and not within the scope of protection claimed in this application.
[0022] To address the problems mentioned in the background section, refer to Figures 1 to 6 This application discloses a photographic equipment support device, comprising: Support base 1, the main plane 100 of support base 1 is used to mount photographic equipment; Multiple legs 2 are spaced apart on the periphery of the main plane 100. Each leg 2 includes a first leg tube component 21 and a second leg tube component 22. The first leg tube component 21 is connected to the support base 1, and the second leg tube component 22 is movably connected to the first leg tube component 21. The locking mechanism 3 is provided on the support leg 2. The locking mechanism 3 has a locking position for configuring the first leg tube member 21 and the second leg tube member 22 into a relatively fixed state, and an unlocking position for configuring the first leg tube member 21 and the second leg tube member 22 into a movable state. The flow channel 401 is at least partially disposed on the support base 1. The flow channel 401 has an inlet 402 and an outlet 403. The flow channel 401 is used to contain the transmission medium. The outlet 403 is connected to the locking mechanism 3. The drive mechanism 5 is connected to the flow inlet 402 and is used to drive the transmission medium to drive the locking mechanism 3 so that the locking mechanism 3 tends to the locked position or the unlocked position.
[0023] In this embodiment, the photographic equipment can be a camera, photographic device, etc., the support device can be a tripod, and the support base 1 can be a mounting base for three legs. Traditional tripods require separate unlocking and locking of multiple legs, resulting in a cumbersome and time-consuming adjustment process.
[0024] The photographic equipment support device proposed in this application uses a support base 1 as the foundation for mounting external photographic equipment, such as cameras and camcorders, on its main plane 100. Multiple legs 2 are spaced apart around the main plane 100. Each leg 2 consists of a first leg tube member 21 connected to the support base 1 and a second leg tube member 22 movably connected to the first leg tube member 21. For example, the second leg tube member 22 can be telescopically adjusted relative to the first leg tube member 21. A locking mechanism 3 is provided on the leg 2, having a locked position and an unlocked position. When the locking mechanism 3 is in the locked position, the second leg tube member 22 and the first leg tube member 21 are configured in a relatively fixed state, and they cannot move relative to each other. When the locking mechanism 3 is in the unlocked position, the second leg tube member 22 and the first leg tube member 21 are configured in a movable state, and the second leg tube member 22 can move relative to the first leg tube member 21 for adjustment.
[0025] This application, by setting a flow channel 401 in the support base 1, enables hydraulic transmission for locking or unlocking via a drive mechanism 5. Furthermore, since the flow channel 401 is located in the support base 1, the oil pipe wiring of each outrigger is eliminated, resulting in a compact and simple structure that is more portable. Specifically, the flow channel 401 is at least partially located in the support base 1. The flow channel 401 serves as a medium transmission channel for containing and guiding the transmission medium. The flow channel 401 has an inlet 402 and an outlet 403, with the outlet 403 connected to the locking mechanism 3. The drive mechanism 5 is located in the support base 1 and connected to the inlet 402. The user can control the drive mechanism 5 to drive the transmission medium to flow within the flow channel 401, achieving unified control of multiple locking mechanisms 3. This allows the locking mechanisms 3 to tend towards the locked or unlocked position, avoiding the complexity of traditional manual operation or multi-pipe connections, and achieving synchronous adjustment.
[0026] The photographic equipment support device proposed in this application can be divided into two main stages: unlocking and adjustment, and locking and fixing, as detailed below: Unlocking process: The user operates the drive mechanism 5 (e.g., by manual pumping, electric drive, or other means) to drive the transmission medium from the inlet 402 into the channel 401. The transmission medium flows along the channel 401 and is transmitted from the outlet 403 to the locking mechanism 3 on each leg 2. The locking mechanism 3 receives the pressure or flow action of the medium and switches to the unlocked position. At this time, the fixed relationship between the first leg tube member 21 and the second leg tube member 22 is released, and the two can slide or extend relative to each other. The user can manually or assistedly adjust the length of multiple legs 2 to adapt to different shooting heights, angles, or terrain environments.
[0027] Locking process: After adjustment, the user operates the drive mechanism 5 again to return the transmission medium or change its flow direction. The transmission medium acts on the locking mechanism 3 through the flow channel 401, causing it to switch back to the locked position. In the locked position, the first leg tube component 21 and the second leg tube component 22 are fixed, and the entire support device stably supports the photographic equipment, preventing shaking or displacement during shooting.
[0028] Compared with the prior art, the photographic equipment support device of this application has significant improvements, mainly in the following aspects: Simplified operation and improved efficiency: Traditional devices require manual adjustment of the locking knobs of multiple feet one by one, a tedious and time-consuming process. This device uses a unified drive mechanism 5 to drive the transmission medium, achieving one-button or centralized unlocking / locking, greatly reducing adjustment time. It is suitable for fast shooting scenarios, such as outdoor photography or dynamic scene setups.
[0029] Improving portability and stability: Existing hydraulic systems often involve multiple oil pipe connections, resulting in messy piping, easy leakage, and affecting the overall portability of the device. This device integrates the flow channel 401 at least partially into the support base 1, reducing external piping, making the structure more compact and easier to carry. At the same time, the uniform distribution of medium transmission ensures the synchronization of the locking mechanism 3, improving the stability of the support and reducing tilting or shaking caused by uneven locking.
[0030] Highly adaptable and suitable for various environments: The movable design of the second support leg, combined with a fluid drive mechanism, allows for flexible adjustment of height and angle, adapting to complex outdoor terrain or diverse indoor settings. Simultaneously, it avoids the wear and tear issues associated with mechanical clamping mechanisms, extending the device's lifespan.
[0031] In some embodiments, in the photographic equipment support device proposed in this application, the main function of the locking mechanism 3 is to achieve relative fixation (locked position) or mobility (unlocked position) between the first leg tube member 21 and the second leg tube member 22 through the drive of a transmission medium (such as hydraulic oil or pneumatic medium). Its configuration needs to be compatible with the flow channel 401 and the drive mechanism 5, and is generally designed as a mechanical structure that responds to the pressure of the medium.
[0032] The following describes several possible configuration options, which can be combined or optimized according to actual needs. Specifically: Firstly, a clamp-type locking structure, exemplarily, can be designed as a ring-shaped clamp (or clamping ring) that can be fitted onto the connection between the first leg tube member 21 and the second leg tube member 22. The clamp is typically made of an elastic material or a deformable component (such as a rubber pad or metal ring), and contains clamping elements (such as a wedge or threaded ring). In the unlocked position, the transmission medium enters the drive cavity of the clamp from the outlet 403, generating pressure to loosen the clamp (e.g., by expanding the ring body through a hydraulic cylinder), allowing the second leg tube member 22 to freely extend and retract within the first leg tube member 21. In the locked position, the medium pressure is released or applied in the opposite direction, causing the clamp to contract and tighten the tube, using friction or mechanical engagement to fix the relative positions.
[0033] Secondly, a friction pad-type locking structure, for example, can be installed on the inner wall of the first leg tube member 21 or the outer wall of the second leg tube member 22, in the form of an expandable friction pad or block element, typically made of rubber, polymer, or metal composite material, and installed at the joint of the pipe fittings. The transmission medium enters the expansion chamber of the pad; when the medium pressure increases, the pad expands and presses against the opposite pipe wall, achieving friction locking (in the locked position); when the pressure is released, the pad contracts, releasing the friction force (in the unlocked position).
[0034] Thirdly, an expansion sleeve locking structure, exemplarily, can be a locking mechanism 3 that is an expansion sleeve embedded in the first leg tube member 21. The sleeve wall is thin and elastic, and its exterior contacts the second leg tube member 22. When the transmission medium is injected into the internal cavity of the sleeve, it causes the sleeve to expand radially, pressing tightly against the inner wall of the second leg tube member 22 (in the locked position); when the transmission medium is discharged, the sleeve contracts and returns to its original shape (in the unlocked position). This is similar to the principle of a pneumatic expansion shaft.
[0035] Reference Figures 1 to 5 In some embodiments, the flow channel 401 proposed in this application is formed inside the support base 1, and the inlet 402 and outlet 403 are disposed on the side of the support base 1 away from the main plane 100.
[0036] In this embodiment, the flow channel 401 can have different configuration forms according to actual design requirements. For example, the flow channel 401 is formed on the support base 1, integrally formed with the support base 1, or set as an independent component on the support base 1.
[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the flow channel 401 is directly formed into the internal structure of the support base 1. That is, the flow channel 401 is embedded in the material of the support base 1 as a medium transmission channel (such as the path of hydraulic oil or pneumatic medium), or it is directly molded onto the support base 1, forming an integrated structure with the support base 1. The inlet 402 and outlet 403 are located on the side of the support base 1 away from the main plane 100 (exemplarily, the lower side or side of the support base), which facilitates the connection of the drive mechanism 5 and the locking mechanism 3, as well as the injection / discharge of the transmission medium, while avoiding interference with the installation of photographic equipment on the main plane 100 and avoiding installation interference with the support legs 2 around the main plane 100.
[0038] Besides the preferred embodiment described above where the flow channel 401 is formed inside the support base 1, in some embodiments, the flow channel 401 can also be disposed as an independent element on the support base 1. Specifically, this includes, but is not limited to, the following possible arrangements: Externally fixed installation: The flow channel 401 can be fixed to the outer surface of the support 1 as an independent pipeline. For example, a shallow groove can be opened on the periphery or bottom surface of the support 1 to embed and fix the flexible pipe.
[0039] Circular or spiral configuration: The flow channel 401 can be configured as an annular pipe element surrounding the periphery of the support 1, forming an annular or spiral path to optimize space utilization and shorten the medium flow path.
[0040] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some embodiments, the support base 1 of this application includes a base 101 and a bottom cover 102 detachably connected to the base 101. The base 101 also includes a secondary plane 1011 opposite to the main plane 100. The secondary plane 1011 is recessed with at least one groove 1012. The bottom cover 102 is disposed at the opening of the groove 1012 so that a flow channel 401 is formed between the groove 1012 and the bottom cover 102. The inlet 402 and the outlet 403 are opened in the bottom cover 102 and are disposed corresponding to the groove 1012.
[0041] In this embodiment, as a further optimization of the preferred embodiment described above, the flow channel 401 can be a structure formed by combining a base 101 and a bottom cover 102. Specifically, the support 1 is composed of a base 101 and a bottom cover 102, which are assembled by a detachable connection (such as by threads, snaps, or magnetic attraction), facilitating manufacturing, assembly, and subsequent maintenance. For example, a main plane 100 is disposed on the upper part of the base 101 for mounting photographic equipment, while a secondary plane 1011 is disposed on the lower part of the base 101, opposite to the main plane 100. At least one groove 1012 is recessed on the secondary plane 1011. The groove 1012 is part of the flow channel 401 formed by the combination of the base 101 and the bottom cover 102. When the bottom cover 102 covers the opening of the groove 1012, a closed flow channel 401 is formed between the base 101 and the bottom cover 102, serving as a transmission channel for the transmission medium (such as hydraulic oil or pneumatic medium).
[0042] When the user operates the drive mechanism 5, the drive mechanism 5 is connected to the inlet 402. By applying pressure or flowing the drive medium, the drive medium is injected from the inlet 402 on the bottom cover 102, enters the flow channel 401 formed between the bottom cover 102 and the groove 1012, and flows along the path of the groove 1012. Finally, it is discharged from the outlet 403 on the bottom cover 102 or distributed to the locking mechanism 3 of each leg 2. When the medium pressure changes, the locking mechanism 3 tends to the unlock position, allowing the leg 2 to be movable or to the locked position, so as to achieve the fixed support of the leg 2.
[0043] Please continue to refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some embodiments, the groove 1012 proposed in this application is an annular groove, the bottom cover 102 is annularly arranged, and the side of the bottom cover 102 facing the groove 1012 is provided with an annular flange 1021. The annular flange 1021 can extend into the groove 1012, and the annular groove of the annular flange 1021 is sealed and connected by the sealing member 7.
[0044] In this embodiment, when the support leg 2 is arranged around the periphery of the support base 1, the groove 1012 is designed as an annular groove and is arranged on the secondary plane 1011 of the base 101 to form a continuous annular channel, so as to drive the multiple support legs 2 arranged around the axial side of the support base 1; the bottom cover 102 is correspondingly arranged in annular shape, and an annular flange 1021 is protruding on its side facing the groove 1012. The annular flange 1021 can extend into the annular groove 1012, and the annular flange 1021 and the groove 1012 can be sealed and connected by a sealing element 7 (such as an O-ring, rubber gasket or sealing material), ensuring that the two form a closed, continuous, annular flow channel 401 after assembly. The sealing element 7 prevents media leakage or external contaminant intrusion, and improves the sealing performance and pressure resistance of the flow channel 401.
[0045] Compared to linear or non-annular grooves, the annular principle of this embodiment optimizes space utilization and is particularly suitable for symmetrical layouts with multiple legs (e.g., tripods) around the annular support base 1. This ensures consistent medium pressure at each outlet, reduces flow resistance, and avoids locking failures caused by uneven local pressure. Simultaneously, the removable bottom cover 102 facilitates assembly, disassembly, and maintenance (such as replacing the seal 7 or cleaning the flow channel), further improving the practicality and reliability of the device.
[0046] Reference Figure 3 , Figures 6 to 8 In some embodiments, the first leg tube component 21 proposed in this application is rotatably connected to the support base 1; the photographic equipment support device also includes a flexible connecting member 404, which is used to connect the outlet 403 and the locking mechanism 3.
[0047] In this embodiment, the first leg tube component 21 is rotatably connected to the support base 1 (such as a hinge), allowing the leg 2 to rotate relative to the support base 1 when folded, unfolded, or angled. This rotatable design improves the portability and adaptability of the device (such as easy storage or adaptation to uneven terrain), but at the same time introduces the requirement for dynamic deformation of the connecting components. The flexible connecting element 404 serves as an intermediary element, connecting the outlet 403 on the support base 1 with the locking mechanism 3 on the leg 2, thus solving the problem of rigid connections being prone to breakage, leakage, or restriction of movement during rotation.
[0048] The flexible connector 404 is typically made of flexible tubing (such as rubber hoses, corrugated pipes, or composite flexible pipes), with one end connected to the outlet 403 and the other end connected to the medium inlet of the locking mechanism 3. When the drive mechanism 5 injects the transmission medium, the medium flows from the outlet 403 through the flexible connector 404 to the locking mechanism 3, causing it to switch states (the unlocked position allows the legs to extend and retract, while the locked position fixes the pipe). During the rotation of the legs, the flexible connector 404 can bend, twist, or extend without interrupting the medium path or causing stress concentration, ensuring uniform pressure transmission and sealing integrity. This avoids the bending failure or pipe clutter problems that occur with traditional rigid pipelines during rotation, while maintaining synchronous control of multiple legs.
[0049] Reference Figures 6 to 8 In some embodiments, the first leg tube component 21 proposed in this application is provided with a first rotating connection part 210 at the end away from the second leg tube component 22, and a second rotating connection part 103 is provided on the periphery of the support base 1. The first rotating connection part 210 and the second rotating connection part 103 are rotatably connected by passing through a rotating shaft 6, and the flexible connecting member 404 can be wound around the rotating shaft 6.
[0050] In this embodiment, a first rotating connection portion 210 is provided at the end of the first leg tube component 21 away from the second leg tube component 22, and a second rotating connection portion 103 is correspondingly provided on the periphery of the support base 1. The two are rotatably connected by a rotating shaft 6 (such as a pin or hinge shaft), allowing the leg 2 to rotate relative to the support base 1 within a certain angle range (such as from a folded storage state to an unfolded support state), thereby improving the portability of the device and adapting to different shooting angles or terrain requirements. At the same time, the flexible connecting member 404 can be wrapped around the outer periphery of the rotating shaft 6 to form a spiral or circular path, ensuring that the flexible connecting member 404 is not pulled or twisted during rotation.
[0051] When the user adjusts the support leg 2, the rotating shaft 6 serves as the center of rotation, driving the first rotating connection 210 to rotate relative to the second rotating connection 103, thus opening or closing the support leg or adjusting its angle. During this process, the flexible connector 404, positioned around the rotating shaft 6, can naturally bend or extend with rotation without interrupting the path of the transmission medium (such as hydraulic oil or pneumatic medium) from the outlet 403 to the locking mechanism 3. When the drive mechanism 5 injects the medium, the medium flows along the flexible connector 404 to the locking mechanism 3, pushing it to switch states (the unlocked position allows for extension and retraction adjustment, while the locked position fixes the pipe). This bypass design avoids the stress concentration, pipe wear, or leakage risks associated with traditional connections during rotation, ensuring the continuity and sealing of the medium flow.
[0052] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 In some embodiments, the second rotating connection portion 103 proposed in this application is configured as an opening, the first rotating connection portion 210 is block-shaped and can extend into the opening, the middle part of the first rotating connection portion 210 is thinned to form an avoidance notch 2110, the rotating shaft 6 passing through the first rotating connection portion 210 is partially exposed in the avoidance notch 2110, and the flexible connecting member 404 can be wrapped around the part of the rotating shaft 6 exposed in the avoidance notch 2110.
[0053] In this embodiment, the second rotating connecting part 103 is designed as an open structure (such as a U-shape or a groove), and the first rotating connecting part 210 is block-shaped (such as a rectangle or a protrusion) and can extend into the open structure to form an embedded hinge fit. This design enhances the stability of the connection and its resistance to lateral forces. At the same time, the middle part of the first rotating connecting part 210 is thinned to form an avoidance notch 2110 (i.e., a locally recessed area), so that the rotating shaft 6 passing through it is exposed in the notch. The flexible connecting member 404 is wrapped around the exposed part of the rotating shaft 6, using the space provided by the notch to avoid direct contact or compression with the connecting part.
[0054] The rotating shaft 6 serves as the axis of rotation, connecting the first rotating connection part 210 and the second rotating connection part 103. When the user adjusts the angle of the support leg 2, the block-shaped part rotates around the rotating shaft 6 within the opening, achieving smooth relative movement. During this process, the clearance notch 2110 provides a winding space for the flexible connecting member 404, allowing it to naturally bend or wrap around the exposed section of the rotating shaft 6 with rotation, without being blocked or pulled by the edge of the connection part, ensuring the integrity of the medium path.
[0055] Reference Figure 8 In some embodiments, the flexible connecting member 404 proposed in this application is a helical spring tube, the middle part of which is spirally sleeved on the rotating shaft 6, and the two ends of the helical spring tube are respectively connected to the outlet 403 and the locking mechanism 3.
[0056] In this embodiment, the flexible connecting member 404 is in the form of a helical spring tube. This tube has spring-like elasticity and a helical structure. The middle part is helically sleeved on the rotating shaft 6 (i.e., wrapped around or encircling the rotating shaft to form multiple helical turns), while the two ends are respectively connected to the outlet 403 on the support base 1 and the locking mechanism 3 on the support leg 2. This design utilizes the extensibility and flexibility of the helical spring tube to accommodate the rotational connection between the first rotating connection part 210 and the second rotating connection part 103 via the rotating shaft 6, ensuring that the medium path is not interrupted or damaged during the opening, closing or angle adjustment of the support leg 2.
[0057] When the user adjusts the support leg 2 (e.g., from folded to unfolded), the rotating shaft 6 acts as the center of rotation, causing the ends and middle of the helical spring tube to twist as the shaft rotates, absorbing the stress generated by the movement and preventing the tube from being pulled, broken, or leaking. Simultaneously, the transmission medium (such as hydraulic oil or pneumatic medium) is injected from the outlet 403 through one end of the helical spring tube, flows along the inside of the tube through the middle of the spiral, and finally enters the locking mechanism 3 from the other end, causing it to switch states (approaching the unlocked position or the locked position when the medium pressure increases). The helical structure enhances the tube's fatigue resistance and resilience, ensuring that the seal integrity and the uniformity of the medium flow are maintained even after multiple rotations.
[0058] Reference Figure 7 and Figure 8 In some embodiments, the first leg tube component 21 proposed in this application includes an adapter 211, a first connecting seat 212, and two first tubes 213. One end of the adapter 211 is provided with a first rotating connecting part 210 for rotatably connecting the support seat 1. The two first tubes 213 are spaced apart at the other end of the adapter 211. The first connecting seat 212 is connected to the end of the two first tubes 213 away from the adapter 211. The first connecting seat 212 is provided with a through hole 2120. The second leg tube component 22 includes a slide 221, a second connecting seat 222, and at least one second tube 223. The two ends of the slide 221 are slidably sleeved on the two first tubes 213. The second tube 223 is located between the two first tubes 213, with one end connected to the slide 221 and the other end passing through the through hole 2120 to connect to the second connecting seat 222. The end of the second connecting seat 222 away from the second tube 223 is used to support the ground.
[0059] In this embodiment, the first leg tube component 21 serves as the upper fixed frame of the support leg, and is composed of an adapter 211, two first tubes 213, and a first connecting seat 212. The adapter 211 is rotatably connected to the support base 1 through a first rotating connecting part 210, which facilitates the folding or angle adjustment of the support leg. The two first tubes 213 are arranged in parallel and spaced apart to form a stable double-track guide structure. The first connecting seat 212 connects the lower ends of the two tubes and has a through hole 2120 as a channel for the lower tube. The second leg tube component 22 serves as a telescopic part, and is composed of a slide 221, a second tube 223, and a second connecting seat 222. The two ends of the slide 221 are slidably sleeved on the first tubes 213 to achieve linear movement. The second tube 223 is located between the two first tubes, with one end fixed to the slide 221 and the other end passing through the through hole 2120 to connect to the second connecting seat 222, which supports the ground.
[0060] When the locking mechanism 3 is in the unlocked position, the user can push or pull the second connecting seat 222 (or slide 221) to make the slide 221 slide parallel to the two first tubes 213, causing the second tube 223 to move in and out of the through hole 2120, thereby adjusting the overall length of the support leg 2 (the extension or retraction of the second leg tube member 22 relative to the first leg tube member 21). This double tube design ensures a smooth and deflection-free sliding process, providing higher resistance to torsion and bending; the through hole 2120 acts as a guide limit to prevent the second tube 223 from shifting.
[0061] Reference Figures 1 to 3 In some embodiments, the driving mechanism 5 proposed in this application includes a driving handle 51 and a driving cylinder 52, and the locking mechanism 3 includes an actuating cylinder 31 and a locking device 32. The driving cylinder 52 is connected to the inlet, the driving handle 51 is used to drive the driving cylinder 52, the actuating cylinder 31 is connected to the outlet, and the output end of the actuating cylinder 31 is used to drive the locking device 32. The locking device 32 has a locked position and an unlocked position. The drive handle 51 is used to drive the drive cylinder 52 so that the output end of the actuator cylinder 31 drives the locker 32 to tend to the locked position or the unlocked position.
[0062] In this embodiment, the drive handle 51 serves as a manual operating element (such as a lever or pump handle) to apply mechanical force to drive the drive cylinder 52; the drive cylinder 52 is connected to the inlet 402 of the flow channel 401 and serves as a medium pumping source, converting the mechanical energy of the handle into the hydraulic energy of the medium.
[0063] When the user operates the drive handle 51 (e.g., presses or pulls), it pushes the piston of the drive cylinder 52 to move, injecting or extracting the transmission medium into the flow channel 401. The medium flows along the flow channel and is transmitted from the outlet 403 to the actuating cylinder 31 (part of the locking mechanism 3). The actuating cylinder 31 receives the medium pressure, and its output end (e.g., the piston rod) drives the locking device 32 to switch states. For example, pushing the locking device 32 towards the unlocked position allows relative movement between the first leg tube member 21 and the second leg tube member 22, realizing the extension and retraction adjustment of the support leg 2; pushing the locking device 32 towards the locked position ensures that the tube is fixed and stable.
[0064] In some embodiments, when the drive cylinder 52 is designed as a double-ended cylinder (i.e., a double-acting cylinder with two hydraulic ports, enabling bidirectional active drive), its operating principle is based on a bidirectional hydraulic control mechanism, further enhancing the accuracy and reversibility of the medium flow. Specifically, the two ports of the double-ended cylinder are respectively connected to a flow channel system (one for forward injection of the medium, and the other for reverse extraction or circulation). The drive handle 51 drives the double-ended piston of the cylinder through switching operations (such as bidirectional pump pressure or valve control) to achieve forward pushing or reverse retraction of the medium.
[0065] When the user operates the drive handle 51 in the forward direction, the medium is injected into the flow channel 401 through the inlet 402 at one end of the cylinder, increasing the pressure transmitted to the actuator cylinder 31, pushing the lock 32 towards the unlocked position, which facilitates the adjustment of the support leg; when operating in the reverse direction, the medium is extracted from the outlet 403 at the other end of the cylinder, reducing or reversing the pressure, causing the output end of the actuator cylinder 31 to retract, driving the lock 32 towards the locked position.
[0066] The above are only some or preferred embodiments of this application. Neither the text nor the drawings should limit the scope of protection of this application. All equivalent structural transformations made using the content of this application's specification and drawings under the overall concept of this application, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the scope of protection of this application.
Claims
1. A photographic equipment support device, characterized in that, include: A support base, the main plane of which is used to mount photographic equipment; Multiple support legs are spaced apart on the periphery of the main plane. Each support leg includes a first leg tube component and a second leg tube component. The first leg tube component is connected to the support base, and the second leg tube component is movably connected to the first leg tube component. A locking mechanism is provided on the support leg, the locking mechanism having a locking position for configuring the first leg tube member and the second leg tube member in a relatively fixed state, and an unlocking position for configuring the first leg tube member and the second leg tube member in a movable state; A flow channel, at least partially disposed in the support base, having an inlet and an outlet, for accommodating a transmission medium, and the outlet being connected to the locking mechanism; A drive mechanism connected to the inlet is used to drive the transmission medium to drive the locking mechanism, so that the locking mechanism tends to the locked position or the unlocked position.
2. The photographic equipment support device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow channel is formed inside the support base, and the flow inlet and the flow outlet are located on the side of the support base away from the main plane.
3. The photographic equipment support device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support includes a base and a bottom cover detachably connected to the base. The base also includes a secondary plane opposite to the main plane. The secondary plane is recessed with at least one groove. The bottom cover is disposed at the opening of the groove so that the flow channel is formed between the groove and the bottom cover. The inlet and outlet are opened on the bottom cover and are disposed corresponding to the groove.
4. The photographic equipment support device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The groove is an annular groove, the bottom cover is annularly arranged, and the side of the bottom cover facing the groove has an annular flange that can extend into the groove. The annular flange and the annular groove are connected in a sealing manner by a sealing element.
5. The photographic equipment support device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first leg tube component is rotatably connected to the support base; the photographic equipment support device further includes a flexible connecting member, which is used to connect the outlet and the locking mechanism.
6. The photographic equipment support device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first leg tube component is provided with a first rotating connection part at the end away from the second leg tube component, and the support base is provided with a second rotating connection part on its periphery. The first rotating connection part and the second rotating connection part are rotatably connected by a rotating shaft, and the flexible connecting member can be wound around the rotating shaft.
7. The photographic equipment support device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second rotating connection portion is configured as an opening, the first rotating connection portion is block-shaped and can extend into the opening, the middle part of the first rotating connection portion is thinned to form an avoidance gap, the rotating shaft portion passing through the first rotating connection portion is exposed in the avoidance gap, and the flexible connecting member can be wrapped around the portion of the rotating shaft exposed in the avoidance gap.
8. The photographic equipment support device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The flexible connecting element is a helical spring tube, the middle part of which is spirally sleeved on the rotating shaft, and the two ends of the helical spring tube are respectively connected to the outlet and the locking mechanism.
9. The photographic equipment support device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first leg tube component includes an adapter, a first connecting seat, and two first tubes. One end of the adapter is provided with a first rotating connecting part for rotatably connecting the support base. The two first tubes are spaced apart at the other end of the adapter. The first connecting seat is connected to the end of the two first tubes away from the adapter. The first connecting seat has a through hole. The second foot tube component includes a slide, a second connecting seat, and at least one second tube. The two ends of the slide are slidably fitted onto the two first tubes. The second tube is located between the two first tubes, with one end connected to the slide and the other end passing through the through hole to connect to the second connecting seat. The end of the second connecting seat away from the second tube is used to support the ground.
10. The photographic equipment support device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The driving mechanism includes a driving handle and a driving cylinder, and the locking mechanism includes an actuating cylinder and a locking device. The driving cylinder is connected to the inlet, the driving handle is used to drive the driving cylinder, the actuating cylinder is connected to the outlet, and the output end of the actuating cylinder is used to drive the locking device. The locking device has a locked position and an unlocked position. The drive handle is used to drive the drive cylinder so that the output end of the actuator cylinder drives the lock to the locked position or the unlocked position.