Remote control and orientation device for an imaging device

Abstract

Remote control and orientation device for an image capture device The invention relates to a remote control and orientation device (1) for an image capture device, comprising: - a chassis (2) with a first part (10), a second part (12) and a pivot joint (14) mounted between the first and second parts, - a mounting plate (4) for mounting the image capture device, - connecting means (6, 8) between the plate and the chassis, the device being configured to position, in a usage configuration, the second part (12) of the chassis substantially perpendicular to the first part (10) of the chassis, and the plate (4) opposite the pivot joint (14) of the chassis, and to position, in a storage configuration, the second part (12) of the chassis substantially parallel to the first part (10) of the chassis, and the plate (4) between the first and second parts of the chassis.Figure for the abridged version: Fig. 1.

Description

Title of the invention: Remote control and orientation device for an imaging device technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of image-capture devices, particularly supports for such devices. More specifically, the invention relates to the field of remotely controllable and adjustable supports. Prior art

[0002] Typically, supports for image-capture devices, classically for cameras, are tripods that allow the camera to be held in a stable position during image preparation and / or capture. The camera can be triggered remotely, but the camera's positioning on the support is generally adjusted manually, either at the same time as, or immediately after, the support is installed on the ground or other surface.

[0003] US patent 2021 / 033949 relates to a camera support with an angled frame on which two motors are provided, configured to rotate the camera about two perpendicular axes. The adjustment along the two axes of rotation can be made remotely from the support, as can the camera shutter release. Two handles, located at each end of the angled frame, are also provided to allow the support to be moved by two people.

[0004] Document CN 116810781 relates to a mobile camera mount. The mount allows, in particular, for the programming of its movements on the ground, along with changes to the camera settings. Thus, once the mount is programmed, it can move independently and take photographs as initially planned during programming, reliably and repeatedly, thereby reducing the cost of repeated shots.

[0005] However, such supports are bulky and heavy, making them unsuitable for handling by a single person. Furthermore, they do not always allow the camera's orientation to be adjusted in any direction, which limits their uses. Finally, such supports are generally designed to be placed on the floor, which also limits shooting and / or installation possibilities. Description of the invention

[0006] The present invention aims to solve the various technical problems stated above. In particular, the present invention aims to provide a device A compact device that allows for the remote orientation and preferably control of an imaging device, while being manageable and transportable by a single person. More specifically, the present invention aims to provide a compact and foldable device that allows the imaging device to be oriented in two or even three directions in space.

[0007] Thus, according to one aspect, a remote control and orientation device for an image-capturing device, for example a camera, is proposed, comprising: - a chassis, preferably angled, comprising a first part extending substantially in the foreground, a second part extending substantially in the background, and a pivot joint mounted between the first and second parts, - a mounting plate configured to allow the mounting of the imaging device, - of the first means of connection linking the plate to the first part of the chassis, and of the second means of connection linking the plate to the second part of the chassis, the first means of connection being telescopic and the second means of connection being configured to allow freedom of rotation around at least one direction, preferably two directions, of the foreground, so as to allow rotation of the plate around said direction, preferably around said directions, of the foreground.

[0008] The orientation and control device is configured to: - position, in a usage configuration, the second part of the chassis substantially perpendicular to the first part of the chassis, and the mounting plate opposite the pivot joint of the chassis, and - position, in a storage configuration, the second part of the chassis substantially parallel to the first part of the chassis, and the turntable between the first and second parts of the chassis.

[0009] Thus, the device according to the invention comprises an articulated chassis with two parts connected by a pivot joint, so as to allow a usage configuration in which the chassis is deployed in an angled shape, and a transport and / or storage configuration in which the chassis is folded into a flattened shape. The pivot joint can extend in a first direction, which can be horizontal if the chassis is mounted by its first part on a horizontal support. Thanks to the articulated chassis, it becomes possible to have a device that, on the one hand, in the deployed state, allows for the integration and orientation of an imaging device, even a bulky one, and on the other hand, in the folded state, has a limited footprint to facilitate its storage and / or transport.

[0010] In particular, positioning the mounting plate opposite the chassis pivot joint allows for several possible orientations of the plate relative to the chassis, notably thanks to the connecting means, for example controllable ones, mounted between the plate and each part of the chassis. The deployed configuration of the chassis also allows for greater ranges of motion for the different orientations of the camera. Such connecting means can, in particular, be controlled or adjusted independently of the chassis pivot joint, which makes it possible, in the operating configuration, to use only the connecting means between the chassis and the plate, while the chassis pivot joint, in combination with one or more connecting means, only allows the device to be folded to make it compact for transport or storage.

[0011] Preferably, the first connecting means comprise two telescopic arms each extending between a lower end connected to the first part of the chassis, and an upper end connected to the second connecting means, the fixing plate being positioned substantially between the two telescopic arms, in particular between the two upper ends.

[0012] The first connecting means thus allow both an orientation of the turntable relative to an axis substantially parallel to the first direction, that is, substantially parallel to the axis of the pivot joint of the chassis, by the same variation in the length of the two telescopic arms, and / or an orientation relative to an axis (second direction) perpendicular to the first direction, by a different variation in the length of the two telescopic arms. In particular, such rotations of the turntable relative to the chassis are made possible thanks to the rotational freedom of the second connecting means. The second direction can be a horizontal direction if the chassis is mounted, by its first part, on a horizontal support. In particular, the first plane in which the first part of the chassis extends can be defined by the first and second directions.

[0013] Preferably, the first part of the chassis includes deployment means configured to move the lower ends of the telescopic arms away from each other and / or from the pivot joint of the chassis in the operating configuration, or to bring them closer together in the storage configuration.

[0014] In order to maintain a compact chassis, particularly a first chassis section with reduced dimensions, the first chassis section includes deployment means that can extend or retract depending on the configuration of the device. More specifically, the first chassis section includes deployment means configured to extend outwards when the device is in its operating configuration, in particular to move the lower ends of the telescopic arms away from each other and from the chassis pivot joint. Conversely, In storage configuration, the deployment means are configured to retract into the first part of the chassis, or along the first part of the chassis, in order to bring the telescopic arms closer to the pivot joint of the chassis, and limit the bulk of the device.

[0015] Preferably, the deployment means each comprise a longitudinal element with a distal end on which the lower end of a telescopic arm is mounted, and a proximal end, and in which the first part of the chassis comprises two guide rails, preferably internal, configured to guide each proximal end between a first position corresponding to the usage configuration in which the longitudinal element extends outside the first part of the chassis, and a second position corresponding to the storage configuration in which the longitudinal element is, at least in part, retracted inside the first part of the chassis.

[0016] The deployment means may, for example, be longitudinal elements (such as arms), each having a proximal end mounted to slide within the first part of the chassis, allowing movement and guidance between the retracted and deployed positions, and a distal end connected to the lower end of a telescopic arm. The longitudinal elements thus allow, during deployment or retraction, one end of the telescopic arms to be moved closer to or further from the pivot point of the chassis. In the deployed configuration, the longitudinal elements allow the dimensions of the first part of the chassis, and therefore the dimensions of the orientation and remote control device, to be increased, while maintaining a compact retracted configuration.The longitudinal elements also help guide the kinematics of the orientation and remote control device during deployment or retraction procedures, in particular by guiding the proximal ends of the longitudinal elements along the guide rails of the first part of the chassis.

[0017] Preferably, the guide rails each have a general V shape with a first portion extending between the first position and a cusp point forming the tip of the V, and a second portion extending between the second position and said cusp point.

[0018] The reversal point, or turning point, of the guide rails is configured to correspond to an unstable configuration of the orientation and remote control device, between the deployed and retracted configurations. Passing through such a reversal point corresponds to passing through an inflection point in which the device is guided towards one or the other configuration (deployed or retracted). Thus, to change the configuration of the device, the user must pass the reversal point, and then be guided to the desired configuration. A Conversely, without voluntary external prompting, the device is naturally guided to remain in its original configuration.

[0019] Preferably, the deployment means also include a stop configured to position itself alternately on the first and second portion of the guide rail, after the passage of the proximal end along said portion of the guide rail, so as to prevent the proximal end from returning to its initial position from the reversal point, and optionally a locking means configured to maintain the proximal end in the first and / or second position of the guide rail.

[0020] As previously mentioned, the reversal point constitutes a kind of unstable inflection point between two stable positions: the deployed and retracted configurations. To prevent the longitudinal elements from returning to their previous configuration rather than the user-defined configuration when passing the reversal point, stops are provided on the guide rails. These stops prevent the proximal ends from recoiling when they are at the reversal point, thus facilitating their guidance to the user-defined configuration. In particular, the stops can be retractable, so that they can be positioned on the portion of the rail from which the proximal end of the longitudinal element originates.

[0021] Preferably, the second connecting means comprise a spherical finger joint, for example a cardan joint, mounted on the second part of the chassis, and two arms extending each between a first end connected to said spherical finger joint, and a second end connected to the upper end of the two telescopic arms, the two arms being mounted substantially on either side of the mounting plate.

[0022] The second connecting means thus form a structure with two parallel arms extending from either side of the mounting plate and mounted for rotation relative to the second part of the chassis. The second connecting means thus allow the plate to be connected to the second part of the chassis, while still permitting rotation of the plate relative to the second part of the chassis. Furthermore, the second connecting means can be fixed to the first connecting means at their upper ends, so as to obtain a device with an overall hexahedral shape in its deployed configuration.

[0023] Preferably, the device also includes an initial orientation device for the plate, rotationally fixed to the plate and pivotally mounted on the second connecting means, the initial orientation device also preferably including a locking means, for example one or more slides equipped with spring-loaded guillotines and mounted between the plate and the second means of connection.

[0024] As previously stated, the simultaneous or separate control of the telescopic arms of the first connecting means allows the plate to be rotated about two substantially perpendicular directions, namely about the first and second directions ("tilt" and "roll" respectively). Thus, by default, the shooting axis of the camera mounted on the mounting plate can be substantially parallel to the second direction. However, the amplitude of rotation of the plate about the first direction ("tilt") may not be sufficient to obtain the desired shot.To address such an eventuality, the device according to the invention may also include an initial orientation device configured to position the plate with a chosen initial orientation ("zero tilt") relative to the first direction: such an initial orientation then constitutes the reference position of the plate relative to which it can then be moved with the telescopic arms, to modify the orientation of the shooting axis.

[0025] Such an initial orientation device then gives the user more latitude to obtain the desired shot, even in cases where the mounting support for the orientation and remote control device is poorly suited to such a shot.

[0026] Such an initial orientation device is thus intended to be set simultaneously with the mounting of the orientation and remote control device on a support, and therefore does not itself need to be remotely controllable. Thus, the initial orientation device may be a manual device, for example with several selectable predefined orientations, intended to be operated by the installer of the orientation and control device, once said device has been fixed to a support. A locking mechanism may be provided to prevent any unintentional change in the initial orientation setting, particularly under the effect of the camera's weight. For example, the initial orientation device may include one or more sliders mounted between the spherical finger linkage and the mounting plate, and equipped with spring-loaded guillotines to allow the initial setting of the mounting plate to be locked.

[0027] Preferably, the device also includes a mounting base configured to allow the chassis to be fixed to a support, the base being configured to be connected to the first part of the chassis by a pivot link substantially perpendicular to the foreground.

[0028] As previously stated, the device allows the turntable to be oriented in two directions in space ("roll" and "tilt"). A base can also The base is designed to allow rotation of the first part of the chassis relative to the support ("pan"): it is connected to the first part of the chassis by a pivot joint that can be adjusted manually (along with the initial orientation mechanism) or remotely. The base thus allows control of the platform's orientation in the third spatial direction without interfering with the mechanism and kinematics of the device's folding into its retracted configuration. In particular, the second plane in which the second part of the chassis extends in the deployed configuration can be defined by the first and third spatial directions.

[0029] According to another aspect, a device as described above is also proposed, intended for a camera having an optical zoom that can be operated via a ring, said device also comprising a controlled device for operating the optical zoom, said device comprising a support attached to the chassis or the camera, a means for attaching to the optical zoom operating ring, and an articulated linkage means configured to allow rotational movement, and possibly translational movement, of the means for attaching to the ring relative to the support.

[0030] In addition to remote orientation means, the device according to the invention may also include a device configured to actuate the optical zoom of a camera mounted on the platform. For example, the actuating device may include a mounting bracket for the zoom lens and a actuator mounted between said bracket and said mounting bracket for the zoom lens, for example via one or more articulated links such as a bent lever, so as to transform the longitudinal displacement of the actuator into a rotation of the mounting bracket, and possibly a translation, for example a helical movement. Brief description of the drawings

[0031] [Fig.1] [Fig.1] represents a remote control and orientation device according to the invention, in a deployed configuration, according to a first perspective;

[0032] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] represents the device according to the invention, illustrated in [Fig.1], in another presentation and from a second perspective;

[0033] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] represents a partial detailed view of the interior of the chassis of the device according to the invention illustrated in [Fig.1];

[0034] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] represents a schematic view of the device illustrated in [Fig.1], in a first folding stage;

[0035] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] represents a schematic view of the device illustrated in [Fig.1], in a second folding stage;

[0036] [Fig. 6] [Fig. 6] shows a schematic view of the device illustrated in [Fig. 1], in a folded configuration; and

[0037] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] represents an optical zoom actuation device of a camera, for a device such as illustrated in [Fig.1]. Description of the implementation methods

[0038] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate two different perspective views of an example of a remote orientation and control device 1, according to the invention. The device 1 is intended to serve as a support for an image-capturing device, for example a camera, and to allow orientation, and possibly control, preferably remotely.

[0039] The device 1 thus comprises a chassis 2, a plate 4 and connecting means 6, 8, between the chassis 2 and the plate 4.

[0040] The chassis 2 is formed of two parts mounted pivoting relative to each other. The chassis 2 thus comprises a first part 10, substantially flat in a first plane, and intended to be positioned parallel to the mounting support on which the device 1 is intended to be mounted, and a second part 12, substantially flat in a second plane, and mounted on the first part 10 via a pivot joint 14. In particular, the pivot joint 14 allows the second part of the chassis 2 to be positioned, in a first configuration referred to as the operating or deployed configuration, substantially perpendicular to the first part 10, and, in a second configuration referred to as the folded or storage configuration, substantially parallel to the first part 10.The pivot joint 14 is also configured to allow, in the folded or storage configuration, a spacing between the first part 10 and the second part 12 of the chassis 2, in order to position the fixing plate 4 and the other elements of the orientation and control device 1. The pivot joint 14 extends along a first direction DI which can be substantially horizontal if the first part 10 extends in a substantially horizontal plane.

[0041] The first part 10 can thus extend in a plane defined by the first direction D1, and by a second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction DI. In other words, the first plane in which the first part 10 extends can be defined by the first and second directions D1 and D2.

[0042] A base 16, visible only in [Fig. 1], can also be provided and mounted on the first part 10 of the chassis 2, via a pivot joint 18 (partially illustrated in [Fig. 3]) extending along a third direction D3 perpendicular to the plane of the first part 10, for example vertically if the first part 10 extends in a horizontal plane, to allow rotation of the chassis 2 around said Pivot joint 18. Such a rotation allows the camera to be adjusted along an axis that is substantially vertical relative to the camera (panoramic adjustment). The second plane in which the second part 12 of the chassis 2 extends, in the deployed configuration, can then be defined by the first and third directions DI and D3.

[0043] In the operating configuration illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 of the device 1, the plate 4 extends substantially parallel to the first part 10 of the chassis 2. The plate 4 includes, in particular, means for mounting a camera, for example one or two sliding links 20 extending in the plane of the plate 4, and optionally a locking means 22 associated with each sliding link 20. To mount the camera on the plate 4, it is simply slid along the sliding link 20 and then locked by the locking means 22.

[0044] With two sliding links 20, as illustrated in figures 1 and 2, it is possible to mount the camera on the top of the plate 4 and therefore of the device 1, or on the bottom of the plate 4, i.e. in the device 1, between the plate 4 and the first part 10 of the chassis 2.

[0045] In the example described here, the mounting plate 4 (and its sliding joint 20 in particular) extends along a longitudinal direction that lies in a plane perpendicular to the first direction DI (along which the pivot joint 14 extends). Thus, and before any adjustment of the "tilt" or "zero tilt" as explained below, the sliding joints 20 can be oriented substantially along the axis of the second direction D2, so as to have the shooting axis of the camera oriented along said second direction D2.

[0046] The plate 4 is connected to the chassis 2 by the connecting means 6, 8.

[0047] The first connecting means 6 link the plate 4 to the first part 10 of the chassis 2, while the second connecting means 8 link the plate 4 to the second part 12 of chassis 2.

[0048] The first connecting means 6 comprise two telescopic arms 24 with a lower end 24a and an upper end 24b. The telescopic arms 24 are configured to vary the distance between the lower end 24a and the upper end 24b, preferably in a controlled manner, via an actuation assembly. The actuation assembly may be, for example, a mechanical cylinder.

[0049] In the case illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the telescopic arms 24 each have two actuating assemblies mounted successively between the lower end 24a and the upper end 24b. Such an arrangement makes it possible to obtain a greater range of motion of the telescopic arms 24 while maintaining a limited overall size.

[0050] The lower end 24a is mounted integrally with the first part 10 of the chassis 1. In order to provide sufficient space for the camera, while maintaining a compact chassis for transport, the first part 10 may include longitudinal elements 26 with a proximal end 26a and a distal end 26b connected to the lower end 24a of one of the telescopic arms 24. The longitudinal elements 26 are configured to extend outwards or fold inwards from the first part 10, as will be explained below. By extending outwards, the longitudinal elements 26 thus allow the lower ends 24a to be moved further apart from each other and from the pivot joint 14 of the chassis 2, thereby leaving more space in the orientation and control device 1, particularly between the first connecting means 6 and the second part 12 of the chassis 2.

[0051] The upper ends 24b of the telescopic arms 24 are connected, directly or indirectly, to the mounting plate 4, which they allow to be oriented. In the case illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the upper ends 24b are connected to the mounting plate 4 via the second connecting means 8 and via an initial orientation device 28 mounted between the second connecting means 8 and the mounting plate 4. Thus, in the example illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the upper ends 24b are mounted on the second connecting means 8, for example, the distal ends of the second connecting means 8.

[0052] The second connecting means 8 link the plate 4 to the second part 12 of the chassis 2. The second connecting means 8 comprise a spherical finger joint, for example a gimbal 30, mounted at the end of the second part 12 of the chassis 2, and two arms 32 extending parallel to each other, between the gimbal 30 and the upper end 24b of the two telescopic arms 24. In the configuration illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the two arms 32 extend substantially along the second direction D2.

[0053] The arms 32 of the second connecting means 8 are spaced apart from each other and are connected to the gimbal 30 by sliding links 34 allowing the two arms 30 to be separated by the same distance as that separating the upper ends 24b of the telescopic arms 24. However, and as will be explained below, the sliding links 34 are configured to allow the two arms 32 of the second connecting means 8 to come closer together, in particular when folding the orientation and control device 1.

[0054] The gimbal 30 is configured to allow the arms 32, and therefore the mounting plate 4, to be oriented about two different axes. On the one hand, the gimbal 30 is configured to allow the arms 32, and also the sliding joints 34, to rotate about an axis parallel to the first direction DI: such a rotation makes it possible to tilt the camera up or down. On the other hand, the gimbal 30 is also configured to allow rotation of the second linking means 8, and therefore of the mounting plate 4, around an axis perpendicular to the first direction D1, for example parallel to the second direction D2: such a rotation allows the camera to be rotated around its shooting axis ("roll").

[0055] The gimbal 30 is therefore configured to allow the various rotational movements (“tilt” and “roll”) imposed by the telescopic arms 24 on the mounting plate 4. Furthermore, the mounting base 16 allows the entire chassis 2, with the connecting means 6, 8 and the mounting plate 4, to be rotated around the third direction D3 (“pan”).

[0056] However, the extension range of the telescopic arms 24 may not be sufficient to achieve the desired rotation around the first direction Dl. Indeed, depending on the installation configuration of the orientation and control device 1, the required angle of inclination with respect to the first direction Dl may be greater than the extension range allowed by the telescopic arms 24. To overcome this limitation, the orientation and control device 1 includes the initial orientation device 28, which allows the initial orientation ("zero tilt") of the mounting plate 4 to be selected with respect to the first direction Dl before the telescopic arms 24 are used.

[0057] The initial orientation device 28 is mounted between the connecting means 6, 8 and the mounting plate 4, and more particularly between the second connecting means 8 and the mounting plate 4. The initial orientation device 28 thus comprises two arms 36, parallel to each other and each mounted between an arm 32 of the second connecting means 8 and the mounting plate 4. More precisely, each arm 36 has a first end mounted, by a pivot joint 37, on an arm 32 of the second connecting means 8, for example in the middle of an arm 32 of the second connecting means 8, and a second end connected to the mounting plate 4, for example via a sliding joint 38 allowing modification of the distance separating the two arms 36 from each other and allowing in particular bringing the arms 36 closer to the mounting plate 4.

[0058] Thus, the initial orientation device 28 is configured to allow rotation of the arms 36 relative to the first direction Dl (“tilt”). By default, the arms 36 extend parallel to the arms 32 of the second connecting means 8. However, the arms 36 can also tilt relative to the first direction Dl, while keeping the arms 32 of the second connecting means 8 fixed, which makes it possible to modify the initial orientation (“zero tilt”) of the mounting plate 4, before any use of the telescopic arms 24.

[0059] In order to maintain the mounting plate 4 in the orientation selected by the initial orientation device 28, the latter also includes a locking means for the mounting plate 4 in position. Thus, the initial orientation device 28 may comprise two slides 40 positioned, by pivot connections, between the gimbal 30 and the mounting plate 4, and offset from each other to allow sufficient support of the mounting plate 4, regardless of its initial tilt. Circumferential grooves and a spring-loaded guillotine 42 are provided on each slide 40 to lock the length of each slide 40 at a value corresponding to the desired initial orientation of the mounting plate 4. Such an adjustment can, in particular, be made manually during the installation of the orientation and control device 1, in order to set the default orientation ("initial tilt") of the camera.

[0060] The different orientation possibilities of the mounting plate 4 of the device 1 have thus been described above. In particular, with the help of controlled telescopic arms 24 (to modify their length) and a controlled mounting base (for example with a drive motor around the pivot link 18), it is possible to rotate the mounting plate 4 around three axes of rotation perpendicular to each other (D1, D2 and D3), to obtain the desired final orientation for the shooting axis.

[0061] We will now describe the deployment and folding mechanism of the orientation and control device 1.

[0062] Fig. 3 illustrates in detail a portion of the first part 10 of the chassis 2. The first part 10 includes in particular longitudinal elements 26 configured to move the lower ends 24a of the telescopic arms 24 away from or closer to the pivot joint 14 and to each other.

[0063] For this purpose, the first part 10 includes two guide rails 44 configured to guide the proximal ends 26a of the longitudinal elements 26. Each guide rail 44 is configured to guide the proximal end 26a of the corresponding longitudinal element 26, between a first position (for example at one end of the guide rail 44) corresponding to the usage configuration illustrated in [Fig. 1] or 3, and a second position (for example at the other end of the guide rail 44) corresponding to the so-called folded or storage configuration (see [Fig. 6]).

[0064] In the first position, the longitudinal elements 26 extend mainly outside the first part 10, while in the second position, the longitudinal elements 26 extend mainly inside the first part 10 of the chassis 2.

[0065] Between the first and second positions, the guide rails 44 may also include a reversing point 46, or inflection or turning point, which corresponds to the configuration in which the orientation and control device 1 switches from one configuration to another. More specifically, the guide rail 44 may have a general V-shape with a first portion 44a extending between the first position and the reversing point 46, and a second portion 44b extending between the reversing point 46 and the second position, the reversing point 46 constituting the apex of the V formed by each guide rail 44.

[0066] The cusp 46 corresponds in particular to the configuration of the device in which the telescopic arms 24 are substantially aligned with the arms 32 of the second connecting means 8. In order to have resistance of the device 1 when passing through such a configuration, the device 1 is configured so that the length of the telescopic arms 24 and the arms 32 of the second connecting means 8 is slightly greater than the maximum distance separating the distal ends 26b of the longitudinal elements 26 of the gimbal 30. Thus, in such a configuration corresponding to the passage through the cusp 46, the structure of the device 1 must deform elastically under the geometric stress: such elastic deformation requires the application of additional pressure to overcome it and tip over the other side of the cusp 46.

[0067] During folding, the proximal end 26a will move along the first portion 44a, from the first position of the guide rail 44 to the turning point 46. However, if the folding kinematics of the device 1 is stopped before the proximal end 26a of the longitudinal elements 26 reaches the turning point 46, then the proximal end 26a will be caused to return to the first position.

[0068] On the other hand, with additional pressure, it will be possible to pass the cusp point 46 and, once the cusp point 46 has passed through the proximal end 26a of the longitudinal elements 26, then the proximal end 26a will be brought to move towards the second position.

[0069] To ensure that the proximal ends 26a move in the desired direction in the guide rails 44, the first part 10 may also include stops 48 configured to prevent the proximal ends from moving backward when they approach the turning point 46. The stops 48 may in particular be retractable, so as to alternately block the first portion 44a and the second portion 44b at each passage of the proximal end 26a at the turning point 46.

[0070] Thus, as illustrated in [Fig. 3], the stops 48 may include an actuator 50 positioned in the guide rail 44, and configured to retract the stop 48 When the proximal end 26a moves from the turning point 46: the stop 48 then positions itself, after the passage of the proximal end 26a, on the portion of the guide rail where the proximal end 26a is located. In this way, during the next kinematic, the stop 48 will be able to allow the proximal end 26a to pass in the direction towards the turning point 46, but will prevent the proximal end 26a from returning to its initial position from the turning point 46, guiding it instead towards the other position, which will trigger the actuator 50 to tilt the stop 48 onto the other portion of the guide rail where the proximal end 26a is then located.

[0071] The longitudinal elements 26, the stops 48 and the actuators 50 thus form means of deployment 51.

[0072] Finally, a lock 52, for example two locking arms controlled in rotation by a sliding trigger, is provided to lock the proximal ends 26a in the first position, in order to maintain the device 1 in the configuration of use, and is configured to release the proximal ends 26a when the user wishes to fold the device 1, by sliding the trigger.

[0073] Figures 4 to 6 illustrate the folding kinematics of an example of a guidance and control device 1 according to the present invention. For the sake of simplification, the device 1 is not shown in its entirety and elements independent of the folding kinematics of the device 1 have been omitted, such as, for example, the slides 40 and spring-loaded guillotine 42, or the mounting base 16.

[0074] When the device 1 is in its operating configuration and the user wishes to fold it, the user first operates the lock 52 to release the proximal ends 26a from their initial position, then lowers the upper ends 24b of the telescopic arms 24 towards the first section 10. The proximal ends 26a will then move along the guide rails 44 towards the turning point 46. The retractable stops 48, positioned on the first sections 44a of the guide rails 44, will allow the proximal ends 26a to pass through during their movement towards the turning point 46.

[0075] By continuing to lower the upper ends 24b, the device 1 then finds itself in the configuration illustrated in [Fig.4] in which the telescopic arms 24 are aligned with the arms 32 of the second connecting means 8: the proximal ends 26a are then at the level of the turning point 46, or connecting rod, and the retractable stops 48, still positioned on the first portions 44a, prevent them from returning to the first position.

[0076] The proximal ends 26a are then guided to the second position corresponding to the folded configuration. In particular, the proximal ends 26a trigger the actuators 50 as they move to the second position, causing the retractable stops 48 to be positioned on the second portion 44b of the guide rails 44. The longitudinal elements 26 begin to move into the first part 10, which brings the lower ends 24a of the telescopic arms 24 closer to the pivot joint 14. At the same time, the lower ends 24a are also brought closer together: the sliding joints 38 at the mounting plate 4, and 34 at the gimbal 30, slide along the second direction D2 to allow the arms 36 of the initial orientation device 28 and the arms 32 of the second connecting means 8 to move closer together. This results in a device 1 as illustrated in [Fig. 5] in which the length and width are reduced to those of the chassis 2, which is still bent.The mounting plate 4 is then found to be substantially parallel to the second part 12 of the chassis 2, near the pivot joint 14.

[0077] Finally, in a last step, the chassis 2 is folded back on itself around the pivot joint 14 to obtain the folded configuration illustrated in [Fig.6]. In such a configuration, the second part 12 is positioned parallel to the first part 10, so as to limit the height of the device 1, which then makes it easier to transport, for example in a bag.

[0078] To unfold it, you only have to perform the same operations, in reverse order, to find a device 1 in the configuration of use.

[0079] As illustrated in [Fig. 7], it is also possible to provide, in the device 1, a controlled device 54 for actuating a ring of an optical zoom ZO. Such a device can be attached, by means of a support 56, to the orientation and control device 1, for example via the mounting plate 4, or be mounted solely and directly on the camera AP, between the optical zoom ZO and the camera body AP. Such an actuating device 54 may, in particular, include an actuating means, for example a telescopic arm 58, for rotating relative to the support 56, an articulated linkage, for example a lever 60 in the form of a right angle, connected to the ring of the optical zoom ZO via a fastening means, for example a clamp 62. Such an actuation device 54 then allows both the optical zoom ZO to be rotated around the shooting axis, and possibly to be translated along the shooting axis.

[0080] Thus, thanks to the device according to the present invention, it becomes possible to orient and control a camera in three directions of space, particularly remotely, to allow for desired shots while remaining at a distance from the camera. In particular, the device according to the invention offers great flexibility of use, with a wide range of adjustment possibilities, while remaining compact and lightweight in its storage configuration.

Claims

Demands

1. A device (1) for the orientation and remote control of an image-capturing apparatus, for example a camera, comprising: - a chassis (2), preferably angled, including a first part (10) extending in a first plane, a second part (12) extending in a second plane, and a pivot joint (14) mounted between the first and second parts, - a mounting plate (4) configured to allow the mounting of the image-capturing apparatus, - first connecting means (6) linking the plate (4) to the first part (10) of the chassis (2), and second connecting means (8) linking the plate (4) to the second part (12) of the chassis, the first connecting means (6) being telescopic and the second connecting means (8) being configured to allow freedom of rotation about at least one direction, preferably two directions, of the first plane,so as to allow rotation of the plate (4) around said direction, preferably around said directions, of the first plane, in which the orientation and control device (1) is configured to: - position, in a usage configuration, the second part (12) of the chassis perpendicular to the first part (10) of the chassis, and the plate (4) opposite the pivot joint (14) of the chassis, and - position, in a storage configuration, the second part (12) of the chassis parallel to the first part (10) of the chassis, and the plate (4) between the first and second parts of the chassis.

2. Device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the first connecting means (6) comprise two telescopic arms (24) each extending between a lower end (24a) connected to the first part (10) of the chassis, and an upper end (24b) connected to the second connecting means (8), the fixing plate (4) being positioned between the two telescopic arms (24), in particular between the two upper ends (24b).

3. Device (1) according to claim 2, wherein the first part (10) of the chassis comprises deployment means (51) configured to move the lower ends (24a) of the telescopic arms away from each other and / or from the pivot joint (14) of the chassis in the operating configuration, or to bring them closer together in the storage configuration.

4. Device (1) according to claim 3, wherein the deployment means (51) each comprise a longitudinal element (26) with a distal end (26b) on which is mounted the lower end (24a) of a telescopic arm, and a proximal end (26a), and wherein the first part (10) of the chassis comprises two guide rails (44), preferably internal, configured to guide each proximal end (26a) between a first position corresponding to the operating configuration in which the longitudinal element (26) extends outside the first part of the chassis, and a second position corresponding to the storage configuration in which the longitudinal element (26) is, at least in part, retracted inside the first part of the chassis.

5. Device (1) according to claim 4, wherein the guide rails (44) each have a general V shape with a first portion (44a) extending between the first position and a cusp point (46) forming the tip of the V, and a second portion (44b) extending between the second position and said cusp point (46).

6. Device (1) according to claim 5, wherein the deployment means (51) also include a stop (48) configured to position itself alternately on the first (44a) and on the second (44b) portion of the guide rail (44), after the passage of the proximal end (26a) along said portion of the guide rail (44), so as to prevent the proximal end (26a) from returning to its initial position from the reversal point (46), and optionally a locking means configured to hold the proximal end (26a) in the first and / or second position of the guide rail (44).

7. A device (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the second connecting means (8) comprise a spherical finger joint, for example a universal joint (30), mounted on the second part (12) of the chassis, and two arms (32) each extending between a first end connected to said spherical finger link, and a second end connected to the upper end (24b) of the two telescopic arms, the two arms (32) being mounted on either side of the fixing plate (4).

8. Device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, also comprising an initial orientation device (28) of the plate, rotationally fixed to the plate (4) and pivotally mounted on the second connecting means (8), the initial orientation device (28) also comprising, preferably, a locking means, for example one or more slides (40) equipped with a spring-loaded guillotine (42) and mounted between the plate (4) and the second connecting means (8).

9. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, also comprising a mounting base (16) configured to allow the chassis (2) to be fixed to a support, the base (16) being configured to be connected to the first part (10) of the chassis by a pivot joint (18) perpendicular to the first plane.

10. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims for an image-taking apparatus (AP) comprising an optical zoom (ZO) actuable via a ring, said device also comprising a controlled optical zoom actuating device (54), said device (54) comprising a support (56) integral with the chassis (2) or the camera (AP), a means (62) for attaching to the optical zoom actuating ring, and an articulated linkage means (60) configured to permit rotational, and optionally translational, movement of the ring attachment means (62) relative to the support (56).

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