Image shooting device for high narrow space
By designing an image capturing device that includes a gimbal camera, a magnetic light source, and a handle, the safety risks and operational difficulties in confined spaces at heights are solved, achieving efficient and safe image acquisition.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- TIANJIN ARCHITECTURE DESIGN INST
- Filing Date
- 2025-03-06
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-28
AI Technical Summary
In the inspection and examination of the interior of the ceiling of existing buildings, the existing technology requires technicians to take photos with the help of climbing facilities, which poses risks of falling from height and equipment collision, and is costly and time-consuming.
Design an image capturing device comprising a gimbal camera, a magnetic light source, a telescopic rod, and a handle. Utilizing the gimbal camera's image stabilization function and the handle's stabilizing structure, and through magnetic connection and wrist strap fixation, enable a single person to capture images in confined spaces at high altitudes from the ground.
It improves shooting efficiency, reduces safety risks, lowers operational difficulty and cost, and is suitable for image acquisition in confined and dark spaces.
Smart Images
Figure CN224174818U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of engineering measurement technology, and in particular to an image capturing device for high-altitude, confined spaces. Background Technology
[0002] In recent years, with the continuous development of urban and rural construction in my country, a large number of existing buildings have emerged across the country. The routine maintenance of these buildings and the revitalization and renovation of existing structures necessitate the inspection and examination of components, equipment, and facilities, including those inside the ceiling. In actual inspection work, extensive photographic and image taking is required to obtain a clear understanding of relevant information. However, due to obstructions from existing decorative components, especially in large ceiling areas, technicians often need to use climbing equipment to extend their arms and limbs into the confined, dark space inside the ceiling to take photographs. Because of the high position of the ceiling and the complex internal wiring, technicians face not only the risk of falling but also the risk of their arms or limbs colliding with existing pipelines, equipment, and facilities when taking photographs in this confined space. Furthermore, when the distance exceeds 2 meters from the ground, operations must be performed by personnel with high-altitude work qualifications. These situations not only increase on-site operating costs and extend working time but also pose certain safety risks. Utility Model Content
[0003] In view of this, the present invention aims to provide an image capturing device for high and confined spaces, which can be used for on-site observation and capturing internal photos of suspended ceilings at higher locations. This not only improves the efficiency of capturing photos of the interior of suspended ceilings but also reduces safety risks.
[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution of this utility model is as follows: An image capturing device for high-altitude confined spaces includes a gimbal camera, a magnetic light source, a telescopic rod, and a handle rod. The gimbal camera is detachably connected to the top of the telescopic rod, and the handle rod is connected to the bottom. An angle adjustment and fastening knob is provided at the connection position between the handle rod and the telescopic rod, which can adjust the angle between the handle rod and the telescopic rod. The gimbal camera is magnetically connected to the magnetic light source.
[0005] Furthermore, a hinge seat is provided at the end of the handle rod near the telescopic rod, and an angle adjustment and fastening knob is installed on the hinge seat. A semi-circular arm rest is provided at the end of the handle rod away from the telescopic rod. A wrist strap and a grip handle are also provided on the handle rod. The wrist strap is located in the middle of the handle rod, and the grip handle is located between the wrist strap and the angle adjustment and fastening knob.
[0006] Furthermore, the grip handle includes a handle and a limiting part. The handle is set on the longitudinal center line of the handle rod, and the lower end of the handle is connected to the handle rod, while the upper end is equipped with the limiting part.
[0007] Furthermore, the grip is a rod-shaped structure, and it is vertically mounted on the handle rod.
[0008] Furthermore, an insertable camera base is installed at the top of the telescopic rod. The insertable camera base has an upward-opening slot structure, and the gimbal camera can be detachably placed in the slot of the insertable camera base.
[0009] Furthermore, the magnetic light source is equipped with a reflective surface, a switch, a charging port, and a magnet. The reflective surface is used to illuminate light, and the direction of light illumination from the reflective surface is consistent with the lens direction of the gimbal camera. The side of the magnetic light source that contacts the gimbal camera is equipped with a magnet, and the top of the magnetic light source is equipped with a switch and a charging port.
[0010] Furthermore, the outer shell of the insert camera base is made of metal, and the inside of the insert camera base is equipped with an anti-slip layer.
[0011] Furthermore, the gimbal camera is equipped with a control function to establish a wireless signal connection with a smartphone.
[0012] Compared with existing technologies, the image capturing device for high and confined spaces described in this utility model has the following advantages:
[0013] (1) The shooting device described in this utility model utilizes the powerful physical image stabilization capability of gimbal shooting technology. Combined with other components, it enables a single person to take images of the interior of a small, dark space at a high altitude from a ground position.
[0014] (2) The shooting device described in this utility model has the characteristics of simple operation, fast speed, low risk and high image quality, and is particularly suitable for survey and exploration projects where the demolition of decorative and renovation components is difficult or where the conditions for demolition of decorative and renovation components are not available.
[0015] (3) The shooting device described in this utility model forms an anti-resistance arm together with a hook-and-loop wrist strap and a semi-circular arm support, which effectively enhances the stability of the device and avoids the risk of the device falling during operation.
[0016] (4) Compared with the existing straight rod device that relies solely on gripping force for support, the shooting device of this utility model effectively reduces the need for the friction force generated by gripping. Attached Figure Description
[0017] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this utility model, are used to provide a further understanding of the utility model. The illustrative embodiments of the utility model and their descriptions are used to explain the utility model and do not constitute an undue limitation of the utility model. In the drawings:
[0018] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an image capturing device for high and confined spaces according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0019] Figure 2 This is a front view of the handle lever;
[0020] Figure 3 It is an axonometric view of a magnetic light source lamp;
[0021] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the gimbal camera and the magnetic light source.
[0022] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of mechanical decomposition.
[0023] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:
[0024] 1. Gimbal camera; 2. Magnetic light source; 3. Telescopic rod; 4. Smartphone; 5. Handle stick; 6. Insert-type camera base; 7. Angle adjustment and fastening knob; 8. Wrist strap; 9. Grip handle; 91. Handle; 92. Limiting part; 10. Semi-circular arm rest; 11. Camera shooting range; 12. Light source illumination range; 13. Reflective surface; 14. Switch; 15. Charging port; 16. Magnet. Detailed Implementation
[0025] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in these embodiments can be combined with each other.
[0026] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.
[0027] like Figures 1-4 As shown, this utility model is an image capturing device for high-altitude, confined spaces, including a gimbal camera 1, a magnetic light source 2, a telescopic rod 3, and a handle rod 5. The gimbal camera 1 is detachably connected to the top of the telescopic rod 3, and the handle rod 5 is connected to the bottom. An angle adjustment and fastening knob 7 is provided at the connection point between the handle rod 5 and the telescopic rod 3, which can adjust the angle between the handle rod 5 and the telescopic rod 3. The gimbal camera 1 is magnetically connected to the magnetic light source 2. Specifically, the left and right sides of the gimbal camera are made of metal, which allows for magnetic connection with the magnetic light source 2. Figure 4As shown, in practical applications, depending on the lighting requirements, one or two magnetic light sources 2 can be installed. These magnetic light sources 2 are magnetically attached to both sides of the gimbal camera 1. It is important to note that when installing the magnetic light sources 2, the direction of light irradiation on the reflective surface 13 of the magnetic light source 2 must be aligned with the lens direction of the gimbal camera 1. The gimbal camera 1 has a control function to establish a wireless signal connection with the smartphone 4. The smartphone 4 is a prior art device, and it has an app installed for operating the gimbal camera 1. This app allows control of the gimbal camera 1 to take pictures or videos. The pictures or videos taken by the gimbal camera 1 can be saved to the smartphone 4's album. Since the smartphone 4 and the app installed on the smartphone 1 for photography are both prior art, they will not be described in detail here. The gimbal camera 1 in this application is a camera with a built-in gimbal, which is existing technology. The gimbal has physical image stabilization, which greatly improves the image stabilization effect compared with the electronic image stabilization of traditional cameras, and is more suitable for mobile shooting.
[0028] A hinge seat is provided at the end of the handle rod 5 near the telescopic rod 3. An angle adjustment and fastening knob 7 is installed on the hinge seat. Preferably, the angle adjustment and fastening knob 7 is a bolt structure. When the angle adjustment and fastening knob 7 is loosened, the connection between the telescopic rod 3 and the handle rod 5 is loosened, and the angle between the two can be adjusted. After the angle is adjusted, simply tighten the angle adjustment and fastening knob 7 to secure the telescopic rod 3 and the handle rod 5. A semi-circular arm rest 10 is provided at the end of the handle rod 5 away from the telescopic rod 3. The two semi-circular arm rests 10 are symmetrically arranged. The handle rod 5 is also provided with a wrist strap 8 and a grip handle 9. The wrist strap 8 is located in the middle of the handle rod 5, and the grip handle 9 is located between the wrist strap 8 and the angle adjustment and fastening knob 7. Preferably, the wristband 8 has a Velcro structure, which allows for quick connection or disassembly of the wristband 8 through the male and female hooks of the Velcro. Therefore, the operator can put on or take off the wristband with one hand, making the operation convenient and quick. It should be noted that the wristband 8 can also be a snap-on structure or other structures that can quickly connect or disassemble the wristband.
[0029] When the worker places their arm on the handle bar 5 and grips the handle 9 with one hand, their forearm rests precisely between the two semi-circular arm supports 10. The wrist strap 8 is then connected and fixed to the worker's wrist. In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this utility model and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model.
[0030] Unlike traditional mobile phone selfie sticks, this device utilizes the image stabilization function of the gimbal camera 1 in conjunction with a specially constructed handle 5 to effectively compensate for the poor image quality of distant lenses caused by hand-held device shake. The handle 5, angled to the telescopic rod 3, is more ergonomic, further enhancing the overall stability of the device and mitigating the risk of accidental drops. The wrist strap 8 passively connects the device to the arm, transforming single-point grip into two-point control. This facilitates adjustments to the shooting position and angle. The wrist strap 8, together with the semi-circular arm rest 10, forms a resistance arm, further enhancing the device's stability and preventing accidental drops during operation. By adjusting the standing direction and hand angle, and by gripping the handle 9, the operator can flexibly control various shooting angles. This allows for image acquisition in confined, dark spaces at heights without the need for climbing structures, ensuring the effectiveness of the captured images while minimizing the risk of falls and collisions with objects in confined spaces.
[0031] The grip handle 9 includes a handle 91 and a limiting part 92. The handle 91 is located on the longitudinal center line of the handle rod 5, allowing for operation by either the left or right hand. The lower end of the handle 91 is connected to the handle rod 5, and the upper end is equipped with the limiting part 92. The limiting part 92 effectively limits the operator's hand, providing a downward force to prevent the hand from sliding upwards along the handle 91 or even slipping off the handle 91 when the operator's hands are sweaty. The handle 91 has a rod-shaped structure and is vertically mounted on the handle rod 5 for easy gripping and force application. In practical applications, protective protrusions, anti-slip strips, or adhesive anti-slip strips can be added to the side wall of the handle 91 to increase the friction between the handle 91 and the operator's hand.
[0032] like Figure 5As shown, the weight of the shooting device and the resistance generated by movement during operation are represented as F1. F1 is decomposed into two forces: an axial force F2 along the direction of the operator's forearm and an axial force F3 along the direction of the grip handle 9. According to the principle of mechanical equilibrium, F1 2 =F2 2 +F3 2 When angle θ is not 0 (i.e., when there is an angle between the handle 5 and the telescopic rod 3), both forces F2 and F3 are less than force F1. Force F2 is borne by the force exerted by the arm, while force F3 is borne by the frictional force generated by gripping the handle 9. The way force F2 is exerted is superior to that of force F3. Compared with existing straight rod devices that rely solely on gripping force (where force F2 is absent), the shooting device described in this invention effectively reduces the need for frictional force generated by gripping.
[0033] The telescopic rod 3 is an adjustable telescopic rod structure with a stacking and fixing function. After the telescopic rod 3 is adjusted to a suitable length, its length can be fixed by snap-fit or screw-on fixing. The telescopic rod structure is a relatively mature existing technology, so its structure will not be described in detail here. An insert-type camera base 6 is installed at the top of the telescopic rod 3. The insert-type camera base 6 is an upward-opening slot-type structure. The gimbal camera 1 can be detachably placed in the slot of the insert-type camera base 6. Installing the gimbal camera 1 is simple and convenient; just place it in the slot. The outer shell of the insert-type camera base 6 is made of metal, and the inside of the insert-type camera base 6 has an anti-slip layer, which effectively increases the friction between the gimbal camera 1 and the insert-type camera base 6, preventing the gimbal camera 1 from slipping out of the insert-type camera base 6.
[0034] The magnetic light source 2 is equipped with a reflective surface 13, a switch 14, a charging port 15, and a magnet 16. The reflective surface 13 is used to illuminate light, and the direction of light illumination on the reflective surface 13 is consistent with the lens direction of the gimbal camera 1. The side of the magnetic light source 2 that contacts the gimbal camera 1 is equipped with a magnet 16, which can magnetically connect with the gimbal camera 1. The top of the magnetic light source 2 is equipped with a switch 14 and a charging port 15. The switch 14 is used to turn the magnetic light source 2 on or off, and the charging port 15 is used to charge the battery of the magnetic light source 2. The reflective surface 13 of the magnetic light source 2 is set on one side wall of the magnetic light source 2, forming a simple whole with the magnetic light source 2. This not only effectively reduces the size of the magnetic light source 2, but also expands the illumination range. In addition, since the magnetic light source 2 and the gimbal camera 1 are magnetically connected, the intermediate connecting structural components are reduced, thereby effectively reducing the overall size of the entire shooting device when entering a narrow shooting channel. The magnetic connection method and the structure of the reflective surface 13 make the shooting device of this utility model easier to pass through narrow passages and reduce the risk of collision or entanglement with surrounding equipment and components during operation.
[0035] The operator operates from a suitable ground location, such as a gap in equipment on the ceiling, a ceiling inspection hole, a light hole, or below a grille opening. The gimbal camera 1 is placed inside the insertable camera base 6 at the top of the telescopic rod 3, and the magnetic light source 2 is magnetically secured to the gimbal camera 1. The gimbal camera 1 is then turned on and a signal connection is established with the smartphone 4. The magnetic light source 2 is turned on via switch 14, ensuring that the light direction is aligned with the lens direction. In practical applications, the illumination range 12 of the magnetic light source 2 is larger than the camera's shooting range 11; that is, the illumination range 12 of the magnetic light source 2 covers the camera's shooting range 11 of the gimbal camera 1, thus ensuring the shooting quality of the gimbal camera 1. The telescopic rod 3 is adjusted to a suitable length, and then the gimbal camera 1 is inserted through a narrow passage into the area where the image needs to be captured. The operator uses the smartphone 4 to observe the image in real time and take necessary photos or videos. During filming, staff remain on the ground, eliminating the need for climbing and thus posing no risk of injury. If the shooting direction needs to be changed, staff can simply rotate their wrist or arm to adjust the device's orientation. For larger changes, such as 180-degree rotations, staff can turn their body backward to move the device 180 degrees. To shoot diagonally upward or downward, simply adjust the angle between the telescopic rod 3 and the handle rod 5. Since ceiling height is typically not very high, horizontal shooting is generally sufficient. However, in practical applications, unlike pipes, ceilings have complex wiring, making horizontal movement prone to collisions or entanglements. Given the large floor plan and multiple directions, to shoot areas at greater horizontal distances, simply find an opening through which the camera can pass.
[0036] In practical applications, taking the capture of images inside a suspended ceiling as an example, the operating steps of this utility model patent are as follows:
[0037] Step 1: Identify the locations of camera openings that the equipment can pass through, such as inspection holes, light holes, and grille holes;
[0038] Step 2: Insert the gimbal camera 1 into the embedded base at the top of the telescopic rod 3;
[0039] Step 3: Magnetically connect the magnetic light source 2 to the gimbal camera 1;
[0040] Step 4: Turn on the gimbal camera 1 and use the corresponding APP installed on the smartphone 4 to establish a signal connection with the gimbal camera 1;
[0041] Step 5: Hold the handle 9 with one hand, adjust the telescopic rod 3 and the handle rod 5 to a suitable angle for applying force and fix them, then connect and fix the wrist strap 8 to the wrist position;
[0042] Step 6: Turn on the magnetic light source 2;
[0043] Step 7: Extend the telescopic rod 3 to a suitable height and fix it, then send the gimbal camera 1 into the ceiling through the shooting channel;
[0044] Step 8: Hold smartphone 4 in your other hand, observe the real-time image on the screen, and use the corresponding APP installed on smartphone 4 to operate gimbal camera 1 to take pictures.
[0045] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model and is not intended to limit the present utility model. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present utility model should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.
Claims
1. An image capturing device for use in confined spaces at high altitudes, characterized in that: It includes a gimbal camera (1), a magnetic light source (2), a telescopic rod (3) and a handle rod (5). The top of the telescopic rod (3) is detachably connected to the gimbal camera (1), and the bottom is connected to the handle rod (5). An angle adjustment and fastening knob (7) is provided at the connection position between the handle rod (5) and the telescopic rod (3) to adjust the angle between the handle rod (5) and the telescopic rod (3). The gimbal camera (1) is magnetically connected to the magnetic light source (2).
2. The image capturing device for high-altitude confined spaces according to claim 1, characterized in that: A hinge seat is provided at the end of the handle rod (5) near the telescopic rod (3), and an angle adjustment and fastening knob (7) is installed on the hinge seat. A semi-circular arm rest (10) is provided at the end of the handle rod (5) away from the telescopic rod (3). A wrist strap (8) and a grip handle (9) are also provided on the handle rod (5). The wrist strap (8) is located in the middle of the handle rod (5), and the grip handle (9) is located between the wrist strap (8) and the angle adjustment and fastening knob (7).
3. The image capturing device for high-altitude confined spaces according to claim 2, characterized in that: The grip handle (9) includes a grip (91) and a limiting part (92). The grip (91) is located on the longitudinal center line of the handle rod (5). The lower end of the grip (91) is connected to the handle rod (5), and the upper end is equipped with the limiting part (92).
4. The image capturing device for high-altitude confined spaces according to claim 3, characterized in that: The handle (91) is a rod-shaped structure, and the handle (91) is vertically mounted on the handle rod (5).
5. The image capturing device for high-altitude confined spaces according to claim 1, characterized in that: The top of the telescopic rod (3) is equipped with an insert camera base (6), which is an upward-opening slot structure. The gimbal camera (1) can be detachably placed in the slot of the insert camera base (6).
6. The image capturing device for high-altitude confined spaces according to claim 1, characterized in that: The magnetic light source (2) is provided with a reflective surface (13), a switch (14), a charging port (15) and a magnet (16). The reflective surface (13) is used to illuminate light. The direction of light illumination on the reflective surface (13) is consistent with the lens direction of the gimbal camera (1). The side of the magnetic light source (2) that contacts the gimbal camera (1) is provided with a magnet (16). The top of the magnetic light source (2) is provided with a switch (14) and a charging port (15).
7. An image capturing device for high-altitude confined spaces according to claim 5, characterized in that: The outer shell of the insert camera base (6) is made of metal, and the inside of the insert camera base (6) is provided with an anti-slip layer.
8. The image capturing device for high-altitude confined spaces according to claim 1, characterized in that: The gimbal camera (1) is equipped with a control function to establish a wireless signal connection with the smartphone (4).