Support system and methods of manufacture and use thereof

Abstract

A support system configured to support an object using a head. The support system including a plurality of legs configured to selectively rotate relative to the head. The legs maintained in a position relative to the head using a positioning assembly.

Description

PCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793SUPPORT SYSTEM AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE AND USE THEREOFCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 718,168 filed on November 8, 2024, U.S. Design Patent Application No. 29 / 972,512 filed on November 11, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 746,569 filed on January 17, 2025. Each of these applications is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.FIELD

[0002] Aspects of the disclosure generally relate to support systems. More specifically, aspects of this disclosure relate to a support system for optical devices.BACKGROUND

[0003] Support systems are often used to support and stabilize firearms, measuring devices, and optical devices, such as, for example, cameras, video cameras, tactical devices, mobile computing devices, and surveying equipment. One example of a support system is the tripod stand. The tripod is a portable, three-legged support stand that is used as a platform for supporting the weight and maintaining the stability of some other object. Tripods are often used in remote and unstable conditions for a variety of optical devices. Accordingly, operators must carry several tripods to worksites. However, it can be difficult and / or impossible to bring a large number of tripods to worksites. As such, operators must make multiple trips and / or go without optimal equipment. Additionally, tripods are often used to hold measuring and / or optical devices that require alignment of two or more devices. This is a time consuming and tedious process that requires many adjustments for proper alignment.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0004] The present inventive concept addresses the foregoing problems by providing a support system that can be easily modified, deployed, and stored, while still providing stable support for an object. For instance, in an implementation when the support system is a tripod, the legs are releasably coupled to a head to allow modification for different applications. In another implementation, the support system includes a positioning assembly that selectively positions the legs relative to the head at preset intervals to assist in alignment of measuring and / or optical devices.

[0005] In one implementation, a support system comprising: a head configured to support an object, a positioning assembly, and a leg coupled to the body. The positioning assembly107070554.1PCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793 includes: a body, the body rotatably coupled to the head, and an actuator configured to selectively restrict rotation of the body relative to the head.

[0006] In another implementation a method for assembling a support system, the method comprising: slidably coupling a first portion of a leg of the support system to a second portion of the leg, coupling the leg to a positioning assembly, and coupling the positioning assembly to a head of the support system, the positioning assembly configured to selectively allow the leg to rotate relative to the head, the head configured to support an object.

[0007] In another implementation, a method for deploying a support system, the support system configured to support an object, the method comprising: releasing a clamp, the clamp configured to selectively restrict movement between a first portion of a leg of the support system to a second portion of the leg, translating one of the first portion or the second portion, engaging an actuator of a positioning assembly, the leg coupled to the positioning assembly, the positioning assembly coupled to a head of the support system, rotating the leg relative to the head, and retaining the leg in a selected position relative to the head using the positioning assembly.

[0008] Additional aspects, advantages, and utilities of the present inventive concept will be set forth, in part, in the description which follows and, in part, will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the present inventive concept.

[0009] The foregoing is intended to be illustrative and is not meant in a limiting sense. Many features and subcombinations of the present inventive concept may be made and will be readily evident upon a study of the following specification and accompanying drawings comprising a part thereof. These features and subcombinations may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The description will be more fully understood with reference to the following figures and data graphs, which are presented as various embodiments of the present inventive concept and should not be construed as a complete recitation of the scope of the present inventive concept, wherein:

[0011] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an example support system in a deployed configuration.

[0012] Figure 2 is a detailed front view of the support system of Figure 1.

[0013] Figure 3 is a detailed perspective view of the support system of Figure 1.PCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793

[0014] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the support system of Figure 1 in a collapsed configuration.

[0015] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an example positioning plate of the support system of Figure 1.

[0016] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of an example positioning assembly of the support system of Figure 1.

[0017] Figure 7 is a perspective view of an example actuator in accordance with another implementation.

[0018] Figure 8 is a section view of the actuator of Figure 7.

[0019] Figure 9 is a perspective view of an example head of the support system of Figure 1.

[0020] Figure 10 is a perspective view of an example head in accordance with another implementation.

[0021] Figure 11 is a perspective view of an example quick release assembly of a support system in accordance with another implementation.

[0022] Figure 12 is a section view of the quick release assembly of Figure 8.

[0023] Figure 13 is a perspective view of an example quick release assembly of a support system in accordance with another implementation.

[0024] Figure 14 is an exploded perspective view of the quick release assembly of Figure 10.

[0025] Figure 15 is a perspective view of an example quick release assembly of a support system in accordance with another implementation.

[0026] Figure 16 is an exploded perspective view of the quick release assembly of Figure 12.

[0027] Figure 17 is a perspective view of an example quick release assembly of a support system in accordance with another implementation.

[0028] Figure 18 is an exploded perspective view of the quick release assembly of Figure 13.

[0029] Figure 19 is a perspective view of an example quick release assembly of a support system in accordance with another implementation.

[0030] Figure 20 is an exploded perspective view of the quick release assembly of Figure 16.

[0031] Figure 21 is a perspective view of an example quick release assembly of a support system in accordance with another implementation.

[0032] Figure 22 is a perspective view of an example quick release assembly of a support system in accordance with another implementation.

[0033] Figure 23 is a perspective view of an example quick release assembly of a support system in accordance with another implementation.PCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793

[0034] Figure 24 is a perspective view of an example quick release assembly of a support system in accordance with another implementation.

[0035] Figure 25 is an exploded perspective view of the quick release assembly of Figure 21.

[0036] Figure 26 is a bottom view of a body of the quick release assembly of Figure 21.

[0037] Figure 27 is a bottom view of a quick release assembly in accordance with another implementation.

[0038] Figure 28 is a perspective view of a mount assembly in accordance with an implementation.

[0039] Figure 29 is a section view of the mount assembly of Figure 28.

[0040] Figure 30 is an exploded view of the mount assembly of Figure 28.

[0041] Figure 31 is a perspective view of a mount assembly in accordance with another implementation.

[0042] Figure 32 is another perspective view of the mount assembly of Figure 31.

[0043] Figure 33 is left side view of the mount assembly of Figure 31.

[0044] Figure 34 is a right side view of the mount assembly of Figure 31.

[0045] Figure 35 is a front side view of the mount assembly of Figure 31.

[0046] Figure 36 is a back side view of the mount assembly of Figure 31.

[0047] Figure 37 is a top side view of the mount assembly of Figure 31.

[0048] Figure 38 is a bottom side view of the mount assembly of Figure 31.

[0049] Figure 39 is a cutaway view of the mount assembly of Figure 31.

[0050] Figure 40 is a view of a coupling head of the mount assembly of Figure 31.

[0051] Figure 41 is an exploded view of the mount assembly of Figure 31.

[0052] Figure 42 is another exploded view of the mount assembly of Figure 31.

[0053] Figure 43 is a bottom perspective view of the mount assembly of Figure 31 without the coupling head shown.

[0054] Figure 44 is a perspective view of a mount assembly in accordance with another implementation.

[0055] Figure 45 is another perspective view of the mount assembly of Figure 44.

[0056] Figure 46 is left side view of the mount assembly of Figure 44.

[0057] Figure 47 is a right side view of the mount assembly of Figure 44.

[0058] Figure 48 is a front side view of the mount assembly of Figure 44.

[0059] Figure 49 is a back side view of the mount assembly of Figure 44.

[0060] Figure 50 is a top side view of the mount assembly of Figure 44.PCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793

[0061] Figure 51 is a bottom side view of the mount assembly of Figure 44.

[0062] Figure 52 is a perspective view of a mount assembly in accordance with another implementation.

[0063] Figure 53 is another perspective view of the mount assembly of Figure 52.

[0064] Figure 54 is left side view of the mount assembly of Figure 52.

[0065] Figure 55 is a right side view of the mount assembly of Figure 52.

[0066] Figure 56 is a front side view of the mount assembly of Figure 52.

[0067] Figure 57 is a back side view of the mount assembly of Figure 52.

[0068] Figure 58 is a top side view of the mount assembly of Figure 52.

[0069] Figure 59 is a bottom side view of the mount assembly of Figure 52.

[0070] Figure 60 is a perspective view of a mounting plating in accordance with an implementation.

[0071] Figure 61 is another perspective view of the mounting plate of Figure 60.

[0072] Figure 62 is left side view of the mounting plate of Figure 60.

[0073] Figure 63 is a right side view of the mounting plate of Figure 60.

[0074] Figure 64 is a front side view of the mounting plate of Figure 60.

[0075] Figure 65 is a back side view of the mounting plate of Figure 60.

[0076] Figure 66 is a top side view of the mounting plate of Figure 60.

[0077] Figure 67 is a bottom side view of the mounting plate of Figure 60.

[0078] Figure 68 is a flow chart illustrating a method for manufacturing a support system.

[0079] Figure 69 is a flow chart illustrating a method for deploying a support system.

[0080] The drawing figures do not limit the present inventive concept to the specific embodiments disclosed and described herein. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed on clearly illustrating principles of certain embodiments of the present inventive concept.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0081] The following detailed description references the accompanying drawings that illustrate various embodiments of the present inventive concept. The illustrations and description are intended to describe aspects and embodiments of the present inventive concept in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present inventive concept. Other components can be utilized and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present inventive concept. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limitingPCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793 sense. The scope of the present inventive concept is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0082] To begin a detailed description of an example support system 100, reference is made to Figures 1-27. In an implementation the support system is a tripod configured to support an object, such as, for example, firearms, measuring devices, and optical devices (e.g., cameras, video cameras, tactical devices, mobile computing devices, surveying equipment, etc.). In an implementation, the support system includes a head 102, a plurality of legs 104, and a plurality of positioning assemblies 106. Although the example support system 100 includes three legs and positioning assemblies, the disclosure is not limited as such and any suitable number may be used.

[0083] The head 102 is configured to support an object, such as, for example, a firearm, a measuring device, or an optical device (e.g., cameras, video cameras, tactical devices, mobile computing devices, surveying equipment, etc.). In an implementation, the object is supported by a mount, such as, for example, a mounting assembly 3000, that is releasably coupled to the head 102 using a compressive force. For instance, the head 102 includes a gap 108 and a handle 110. The handle 110 is configured to decrease the size of the gap when actuated (e.g., rotated relative to the head 102), thereby decreasing an inner diameter of the head 102 and applying a compressive force to the mount disposed therein. This allows for toolless removal of the mount and / or object. In an implementation, the head 102 includes one or more mounting surfaces 112 for mounting additional objects to the head using, for example, one or more fasteners. In an implementation, the head 102 includes a recess 114 that is configured to receive an accessory, such as, for example, a level indicator. The head 102 includes a plurality of protrusions 116 that correspond with the number of the plurality of legs 104. Each of the plurality of protrusions 116 includes aperture 118 configured to receive a fastener 134, such as, for example, a bolt, fastener, rivet, pin, etc., to rotatably couple one of the plurality of protrusions 116 to one of the plurality of positioning assemblies 106, as discussed in more detail below. Turning to Figure 10, a head 202 in accordance with another implementation is illustrated. The head 202 is substantially the same as the head 102, except head 202 includes one or more mounting surfaces 212 that respectively include a slot 207.

[0084] The plurality of legs 104 include one or more portions configured to translate relative to each other between an expanded configuration as illustrated in Figure 1 and a collapsed configuration, as illustrated in Figure 4. For instance, each of the plurality of legs include a first portion 120, a second portion 122, and a third portion 124. However, the disclosure is notPCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793 limited to three portions and any suitable number may be used. In an implementation, movement of the first portion 120, the second portion 122, and the third portion 124 is restricted using a plurality of clamps. For instance, a first clamp 126 is coupled to the first portion 120 and selectively applies a compressive force to the second portion 122 to restrict movement between the first portion 120 and the second portion 122 by actuating the first clamp 126 (e.g., a handle, knob, etc.), and a second clamp 128 is coupled to the second portion 122 and selectively applies a compressive force to the third portion 124 to restrict movement between the third portion 124 and the second portion 122 by actuating the second clamp 128 (e.g., a handle, knob, etc.).

[0085] In an implementation, the plurality of legs 104 include a retention mechanism for restricting the separation of the first portion 120, the second portion 122, and the third portion 124. For example, in an implementation where the second portion 122 is slidably disposed within the first portion 120, a lip is formed at an interior of the first portion 120, such as, for example, using a cap coupled to an end of the first portion 120. The second portion 122 including a protrusion extending outwardly from the second portion 122 to restrict the second portion 122 from disengaging from the first portion 120. For example, a cap is coupled at the end of the second portion 122 to form the protrusion. A similar structure can be used to retain the third portion 124 in slidable engagement with the second portion 122.

[0086] Each of the plurality of legs 104 is coupled at a first end one of the plurality of positioning assemblies 106 and a second end to a foot 130. In an implementation, discussed in more detail below, each of the plurality of legs are releasably coupled to one of the plurality of positioning assemblies 106 via a quick release assembly 232. This allows different sized and types of legs may be easily used with a single head. In an implementation, the plurality of legs 104 are composed of carbon fiber, plastic, aluminum, steel, or other suitable material, and the foot 130 is composed of rubber, plastic, or other suitable material. In an implementation, weight can be added to the plurality of legs 104.

[0087] Referring to Figure 6, one of the plurality of positioning assemblies 106 is shown. In an implementation, each of the plurality of positioning assemblies include a fastener 134, a positioning plate 136, an actuator 138, a biasing member 140, and a body 142. The plurality of positioning assemblies 106 are configured to selectively position the plurality of legs 104 at predetermined angles relative to the head 102.

[0088] Referring to Figure 5, the positioning plate 136 includes a positioning plate aperture 144 and one or more additional positioning plate apertures 146. The positioning plate 136 isPCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793 disposed between the body 142 and one of the protrusions 116 of the head 102. In an implementation, the positioning plate is mounted in position by receiving the fastener 134 in the positioning plate aperture 144 and one or more additional fasteners, such as, for example, a bolt, fastener, rivet, pin, etc., in the one or more additional positioning plate apertures 146, thereby allowing the body 142 to rotate relative to the positioning plate 136 and the protrusion 116. In this implementation, each of the protrusions 116 includes one or more additional protrusion apertures 148 configured to receive the one or more additional fasteners to restrict rotation of the positioning plate 136 relative to the head 102.

[0089] In an implementation, the positioning plate 136 includes one or more recesses 150 configured to engage the actuator 138 to restrict rotation of one of the plurality of legs 104 relative to the head 102, as discussed in more detail below. The positioning of the one or more recesses can be at any desired position based on the desired preset angles between the plurality of legs 104 and the head 102. Although four recesses are show, the disclosure is not limited as such and any suitable number of recesses may be used.

[0090] In an implementation the actuator 138 is slidably disposed in the body 142 between an engaged configuration and a disengaged configuration. In an implementation the actuator 138 includes an engagement portion 152 and a recessed portion 154. In an implementation, the engagement portion 152 has a larger diameter than the recessed portion 154. The engagement portion 152 engages one of the one or more recesses 150 when the actuator is in the engaged configuration. The actuator 138 is transitioned to the disengaged configuration when a force is applied to the actuator to cause the engagement portion 152 to disengage from the one or more recesses 150. In an implementation, the force causes the actuator 138 to move in a direction towards the body 142 such that the actuator 138 is inserted further into the body 142.

[0091] Turning to Figures 7 and 8, an actuator 238 according to another implementation is illustrated. In this implementation, the actuator 238 is substantially similar in operation to the actuator 138. In an implementation the actuator 238 includes a button 253, an engagement portion 252 and a recessed portion 254. In an implementation, the button 253 has a textured surface. In an implementation, the engagement portion 252 has a larger diameter than the recessed portion 254. The engagement portion 252 engages one of the one or more recesses 150 when the actuator 238 is in the engaged configuration. The actuator 238 is transitioned to the disengaged configuration when a force is applied to the button 253 to cause the engagement portion 252 to disengage from the one or more recesses 250. In an implementation, the forcePCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793 causes the button 253 to move in a direction towards the body 142 such that the actuator 238 is inserted further into the body 142.

[0092] In an implementation, a biasing member 140 applies a biasing force to the actuator 138, 238 to bias the actuator 138, 238 towards the engaged configuration. In an implementation, when the force is not applied to the actuator 138, 238, the biasing force biases the actuator 138, 238 to move outwardly from the body 142. In this implementation, the force must be greater than the biasing force to move the actuator 138, 238 out of the engaged configuration. In an implementation, the biasing member 140 is a spring.

[0093] In an implementation, the body 142 includes arms 156. In an implementation, the positioning plate 136 and one of the protrusions 116 of the head 102 are disposed between the arms 156, thereby forming a knuckle joint. In an implementation, the body 142 includes a first aperture 158 and a second aperture 160 formed in the arms 156. The first aperture 158 is configured to receive the fastener 134 and the second aperture 160 is configured to receive the actuator 138 and the biasing member 140. In an implementation, the body 142 includes an actuator guide 162 configured to receive the actuator 138. Although two arms are shown, any suitable number of arms may be used.

[0094] Referring to Figures 11-27, various quick release assemblies 232-932 are illustrated that are configured to releasably couple the plurality of legs 104 to the plurality of positioning assemblies 106. These allow for quick modification of the support system 100 depending on the application,

[0095] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, a quick release assembly 232 is illustrated according to an implementation. In this implementation, hooked levers 264 that selectively engage a cap 266 with an outwardly protruding shoulder that extends beyond an outer diameter of the plurality of legs 104. In an implementation, the cap 266 is coupled to an end of one of the plurality of legs 104. To disengage the hooked levers 264 from the cap 266, a force is applied to the hooked levers to overcome a biasing force applied by the biasing members 268. In an implementation, the cap 266 is composed of a different material than the plurality of legs 104, such as, for example, rubber, metal, plastic, or any other suitable material.

[0096] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, a quick release assembly 332 is illustrated according to an implementation. In this implementation, a pin 370 selectively couples one of the plurality of legs 104 to the quick release assembly 332 by engaging an aperture 372 formed in a cap 366 coupled to an end of one of the plurality of legs 104. In an implementation, a biasing member 374 applies a biasing force to the cap 366. In an implementation, the pin 370 is a push buttonPCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793 pin. In an implementation, the pin 370 includes a cable 376 that is coupled to the support system 100 to prevent loss of the pin 370.

[0097] Referring to Figures 15 and 16, a quick release assembly 432 is illustrated according to an implementation. In this implementation, a threaded coupling 478 is rotatably coupled to one of the plurality of legs 104 by a cap 466 coupled to an end of one of the plurality of legs 104. The threaded coupling 478 includes internal threads configured to engage external threads of the body 442 by rotation of the threaded coupling 478 relative to the cap 466, thereby releasably coupling the threaded coupling 478 to the body 442.

[0098] Referring to Figures 17 and 18, a quick release assembly 532 is illustrated according to an implementation. In this implementation, a threaded coupling 578 is rotatably coupled to one of the plurality of legs 104 by a cap 566 coupled to an end of one of the plurality of legs 104 and a retaining body 580 coupled to the cap 566. The threaded coupling 578 includes external threads configured to engage internal threads of the body 542 by rotation of the threaded coupling 578 relative to the cap 566, thereby releasably coupling the threaded coupling 578 to the body 542.

[0099] Referring to Figures 19 and 20, a quick release assembly 632 is illustrated according to an implementation. In this implementation, a button 682 is slidably coupled to a body 642 and configured to selectively engage a cap 666 coupled to an end of one of the plurality of legs 104, thereby releasably coupling the cap 666 to the body 642. In an implementation, the button 682 is retained in the body 642 by a retention plate 684 coupled to the body 642 by a plurality of fasteners 686. In an implementation, the button 682 is biased outwardly by one or more biasing members 688. In an implementation, the button 682 includes an aperture 690 configured to receive a shaft 692 to releasably couple the cap 666 to the body 642 by selectively engaging a recessed portion 694 of the shaft 692. When the button is actuated by applying a force towards the body 642, the button disengages the recessed portion 694 and allows the shaft 692 to pass through the aperture 690.

[0100] Referring to Figure 21, a quick release assembly 732 is illustrated according to an implementation. In this implementation, two levers 796 engage a recessed portion 798 of a cap 766 that is coupled to an end of one of the plurality of legs 104, thereby releasably coupling the cap 766 to a body 742. In an implementation, biasing members bias the levers 796 to engage the recessed portion 798.

[0101] Referring to Figure 22, a quick release assembly 832 is illustrated according to an implementation. In this implementation, the quick release assembly 832 is substantiallyPCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793 similar to the quick release assembly 232 illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, except a single hooked lever 864 engages a cap 866.

[0102] Referring to Figure 23, a quick release assembly 932 is illustrated according to an implementation. In this implementation, a cap 966 threadably engages a threaded opening 901 in a body 942. The cap 966 includes teeth 903 that engage a button 905 to allow the cap 966 to ratchet as the cap 966 is rotated in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) relative to the body 942. The button 905 restricts rotation of the cap 966 in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise) until a force is applied to the button 905 that causes the button 905 to disengage the teeth 903.

[0103] Referring to Figures 24-26, a quick release assembly 1032 is illustrated according to an implementation. In this implementation, a clamp 1064 selectively couples one of the plurality of legs 104 to the quick release assembly 1032 by applying a compressive force to a cap 1066 coupled to an end of one of the plurality of legs 104. In an implementation, the compressive force is applied to the cap 1066 by the clamp 1064 reducing the size of a gap 1043 formed in the body 1042 in response to actuation of an actuator of the clamp 1064 (e.g., knob, handle, lever, etc.). For instance, in the implementation shown, the clamp 1064 includes a handle that is rotatable relative to the body 1042 to selectively apply the compressive force. In an implementation, the cap 1066 is press-fit to the end of the one of the plurality of legs 104. In an implementation, the cap 1066 is composed of metal, such as, for example, aluminum. In an implementation, the cap 1066 and the body 1042 have a respective shape that restricts rotation therebetween. For instance, the cap 1066 and the body 1042 can be keyed. In another implementation, the cap 1066 includes a flat portion 1067 that engages a corresponding flat portion 1045 formed in an aperture 1047 of the body 1042 that receives the cap 1066, thereby restricting motion therebetween.

[0104] Turning to Figure 27, another quick release assembly 2032 is illustrated according to an implementation. The quick release assembly 2032 is substantially the same as the quick release assembly 1032, except the quick release assembly 2032 does not include the flat portion 1067 and includes a protrusion 2009. The protrusion 2009 can engage a corresponding aperture (not shown) in an end of one of the plurality of legs 104 to restrict the one of the plurality of legs 104 from rotating relative to the quick release assembly 2032.

[0105] Turning to Figures 28-30, a mounting assembly 3000 is illustrated according to an implementation. In an implementation, the mounting assembly 3000 is a ball mount. In an implementation, the mounting assembly 3000 includes a first plate 3002, a second plate 3004,PCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793 a clamping plate 3006, a first bearing 3008, a second bearing 3010, abase 3012, and a coupling head 3014.

[0106] In an implementation, the first plate 3002 includes one or more mounting features 3016 disposed on a first surface of the first plate 3002 that are configured to couple with the object or one or more fasteners to couple the object to the first plate 3002. In an implementation, the one or more mounting features 30116 are one or more threaded apertures. In an implementation, the first plate 3002 includes a threaded portion 3018 and an annular groove 3020 disposed on a second surface of the first plate 3002, the second surface disposed opposite and substantially parallel to the first surface.

[0107] In an implementation, the second plate 3004 includes internal threads 3022 and an interior opening 3024. In an implementation, the internal threads 3022 are threadably engageable with the threaded portion 3018 of the first plate to threadably couple the second plate 3004 to the first plate 3002 between a fixed position and an adjustment position. In an implementation, the interior opening 3024 has a diameter larger than the diameter of the coupling head 3014. When the first plate 3002 is rotated relative to the second plate 3004 to be disposed in the fixed position, movement of the first plate 3002 and the second plate 3004 relative to the base 3012 and the coupling head 3014 is restricted. When the first plate 3002 is rotated relative to the second plate 3004 to be disposed in in the adjustment position, movement of the first plate 3002 and the second plate 3004 relative to the base 3012 and the coupling head 3014 is allowed.

[0108] In an implementation, the clamping plate 3006 is disposed within the interior opening 3024 and between the second plate 3004 and the second bearing 3010. In an implementation, the clamping plate 3006 is composed of a low friction material, such as, for example, aluminum, bronze, steel, etc., to allow for rotation of the clamping plate 3006 relative to the second plate 3004 when the first plate 3002 is rotated relative to the second plate 3004 to be disposed in the adjustment position.

[0109] In an implementation, the first bearing 3008 is disposed within a cavity formed by the threaded portion 3018. In an implementation, the first bearing 3008 is composed of a high friction material, such as, for example, rubber, polyurethane, etc., to restrict rotation of the first bearing 3008 relative to the first plate 3002 when the first plate 3002 is rotated relative to the second plate 3004 to be disposed in the fixed position.

[0110] In an implementation, the second bearing 3010 is disposed between the clamping plate 3006 and the coupling head 3014. In an implementation, the second bearingPCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-8647933010 has an internal surface with a shape that corresponds with the coupling head 3014. In an implementation the internal surface has a diameter that is less than the diameter of the coupling head 3014. In an implementation, the second bearing 3010 is composed of a high friction material, such as, for example, rubber, polyurethane, etc., to restrict rotation of the second bearing 3010 relative to the second plate 3004 when the first plate 3002 is rotated relative to the second plate 3004 to be disposed in in the fixed position.

[0111] In an implementation, the base 3012 includes a body 3026 and an outwardly extending flange 3028. In an implementation, the body 3026 is configured to be received by an opening in the head 102 until the outwardly extending flange 3028 abuts the head 102.

[0112] In an implementation, the coupling head 3014 is coupled to the base 3012. In an implementation, the coupling head 3014 is a ball head. In an implementation, the coupling head 3014 is disposed with a cavity cooperatively formed by the first plate 3002 and the second plate 3004, when the same are coupled together.

[0113] In an implementation, the mounting assembly 3000 is configured to support approximately 45 pounds of payload for 20 minutes without measurable movement. In an implementation, the mounting assembly 3000 weighs less than approximately 10% of an attachment device used to retain the object to the mounting assembly 3000. In an implementation, the attachment device is a clamp that includes a 3-position lever. In the first position, the attachment device provides a clamping force to the object. In a second position, the attachment, allows movement of the object while retaining the object to the clamp. In a third position, the object can be released from the clamp. In an implementation, the mounting assembly 3000 allows for at least 30 degrees of adjustment in all three axes.

[0114] Turning to Figures 31-40, a mounting assembly 3100 is illustrated according to an implementation. The mounting assembly 3100 is substantially similar to the mounting assembly 3100 aside from the differences discussed herein. In an implementation, the mounting assembly 3100 is a ball mount. In an implementation, the mounting assembly 3100 includes a first plate 3102, a second plate 3104, and a clamp 3106.

[0115] In an implementation, the first plate 3102 includes one or more mounting features 3110 disposed on a first surface of the first plate 3102 that are configured to couple with the object or one or more fasteners to couple the object to the first plate 3102. In an implementation, the one or more mounting features 3110 may be located on a raised surface 3112 with respect to a top surface 3114 of the first plate 3102. In an implementation, the one or more mounting features 3110 are one or more threaded apertures.PCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793

[0116] In an implementation, the first plate 3102 further includes one or more slots. For instance, in the implementation shown, a first slot 3120A is shown proximate a first end 3122 of the first plate 3102 and a second slot 3120B is shown proximate a second end 3124 of the first plate 3102.

[0117] In an implementation, the second plate 3104 includes one or more apertures. For instance, in the implementation shown, a first aperture 3130A is shown proximate a first end 3132 of the second plate 3104 and a second aperture 3130B is shown proximate a second end 3134 of the second plate 3104. The second plate may include a notch 3136 on a top surface 3138 of the second plate 3104. In an implementation, the notch 3136 may slidably fit within a groove 3140 of the first plate 3102.

[0118] In an implantation, the first plate 3102 and the second plate 3104 form a cavity 3146. In an implementation, the cavity 3146 has an internal surface with a shape that corresponds with a coupling head 3150. In an implementation, one or more fasteners 3156 may be inserted through the one or more slots 3120 A, 3120B of the first plate 3102 and the one or more apertures 3130A, 3130B of the second plate 3104 to couple the first plate 3102 to the second plate 3104. In some instances, the one or more fasteners 3156 and / or the one or more slots 3120 A, 3120B may be threaded.

[0119] In an implementation, the clamp 3106 selectively couples the first plate 3102, the second plate 3104 and the coupling head 3150 by applying a compressive force to the coupling head 3150. In an implementation, the compressive force by the clamp 3106 reduces the size of a gap 3160 formed between the first plate 3102 and the second plate 3104 in response to actuation of an actuator of the clamp 3106 (e.g., knob, handle, lever, etc.). For instance, in the implementation shown, the clamp 3106 includes a handle that is rotatable relative to the first plate 3102 to selectively apply the compressive force.

[0120] Turning to Figures 44-51, another mounting assembly 3200 is illustrated according to an implementation. The mounting assembly 3200 is substantially the same as the mounting assembly 3100, except the mounting assembly 3200 further includes a mounting attachment 3202. In an implementation, the mounting attachment 3202 includes an opening 3204, wherein the opening 3204 is configured to couple with the object.

[0121] Turning to Figures 52-59, another mounting assembly 3300 is illustrated according to an implementation. The mounting assembly 3300 is substantially the same as the mounting assembly 3100, except the mounting assembly 3300 further includes a mountingPCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793 attachment 3302. In an implementation, the mounting attachment 3302 includes a rounded surface, wherein the object may be coupled to the mounting attachment 3302.

[0122] Turning to Figures 60-67, a mounting plate 3400 is illustrated according to an implementation. In the depicted illustration, the mounting plate 3400 includes one or more apertures 3406 in a top surface 3402 of the mounting plate 3400. The one or more apertures 3406 may be configured to couple with the object. In an implantation, the mounting plate 3400 further includes a base 3404. The base 3404 may have a circumference which is smaller than the circumference of the top surface 3402. In an implementation, the base 3404 may fit within an opening of the head 102.

[0123] Referring to Figure 68, a flow chart illustrating a method 6800 for manufacturing the support system 100 is illustrated. At step 6802 at least two leg portions of a leg are slidably coupled to each other. At step 6804 a quick release assembly is coupled to the leg. At step 6806, the quick release assembly is releasably coupled to a positioning assembly, thereby releasably coupling the leg to the positioning assembly. At step 6808, the positioning assembly is coupled to a head of the support system.

[0124] Referring to Figure 69, a flow chart illustrating a method 6900 for deploying the support system 100 is illustrated. At step 6902 a clamp restricting movement between first and second leg portions is released. At step 6904 the first leg portion is translated relative to the second leg portion. At step 6906, an actuator is engaged to transition a positioning assembly to a disengaged configuration to allow rotation of the leg relative to the head. At step 6908, the positioning assembly is coupled to a head of the support system. At step 6910, the positioning assembly retains the leg in a selected position.

[0125] Having described several embodiments, it will be recognized by those skilled in the art that various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of the present inventive concept. Additionally, a number of well-known processes and elements have not been described in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present inventive concept. Accordingly, this description should not be taken as limiting the scope of the present inventive concept.

[0126] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the presently disclosed embodiments teach by way of example and not by limitation. Therefore, the matter contained in this description or shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The following claims are intended to cover all generic and specificPCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793 features described herein, as well as all statements of the scope of the method and assemblies, which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.

[0127] The phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. For example, the use of a singular term, such as, “a” is not intended as limiting of the number of items. Also, the use of relational terms such as, but not limited to, “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “upper,” “lower,” “down,” “up,” and “side,” are used in the description for clarity in specific reference to the figures and are not intended to limit the scope of the present inventive concept or the appended claims.

[0128] Further, as the present inventive concept is susceptible to embodiments of many different forms, it is intended that the present disclosure be considered as an example of the principles of the present inventive concept and not intended to limit the present inventive concept to the specific embodiments shown and described. Any one of the features of the present inventive concept may be used separately or in combination with any other feature. References to the terms “embodiment,” “embodiments,” and / or the like in the description mean that the feature and / or features being referred to are included in, at least, one aspect of the description. Separate references to the terms “embodiment,” “embodiments,” and / or the like in the description do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment and are also not mutually exclusive unless so stated and / or except as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the description. For example, a feature, structure, process, step, action, or the like described in one embodiment may also be included in other embodiments but is not necessarily included. Thus, the present inventive concept may include a variety of combinations and / or integrations of the embodiments described herein. Additionally, all aspects of the present disclosure, as described herein, are not essential for its practice. Likewise, other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the present inventive concept will be, or become, apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the figures and the description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within this description, be within the scope of the present inventive concept, and be encompassed by the claims.

[0129] Any term of degree such as, but not limited to, “substantially” as used in the description and the appended claims, should be understood to include an exact, or a similar, but not exact configuration. For example, “a substantially planar surface” means having an exact planar surface or a similar, but not exact planar surface. Similarly, the terms “about” or “approximately,” as used in the description and the appended claims, should be understood toPCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793 include the recited values or a value that is three times greater or one third of the recited values. For example, about 3 mm includes all values from 1 mm to 9 mm, and approximately 50 degrees includes all values from 16.6 degrees to 150 degrees. For example, they can refer to less than or equal to ± 5%, such as less than or equal to ± 2%, such as less than or equal to ± 1%, such as less than or equal to ± 0.5%, such as less than or equal to ± 0.2%, such as less than or equal to ± 0.1%, such as less than or equal to ± 0.05%.

[0130] The terms "comprising," "including" and "having" are used interchangeably in this disclosure. The terms "comprising," "including" and "having" mean to include, but not necessarily be limited to the things so described.

[0131] Lastly, the terms “or” and “and / or,” as used herein, are to be interpreted as inclusive or meaning any one or any combination. Therefore, “A, B or C” or “A, B and / or C” mean any of the following: “A,” “B” or “C”; “A and B”; “A and C”; “B and C”; “A, B and C.” An exception to this definition will occur only when a combination of elements, functions, steps or acts are in some way inherently mutually exclusive.

Claims

PCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A support system comprising: a head configured to support an object; and a positioning assembly including: a body, the body rotatably coupled to the head; an actuator configured to selectively restrict rotation of the body relative to the head; and a leg coupled to the body.

2. The support system of claim 1, wherein the leg is releasably coupled to the positioning assembly by a quick release assembly.

3. The support system of claim 1, further comprising: a handle coupled to the head and configured to decrease a size of a gap formed in the head to cause a force to be applied to the object.

4. The support system of claim 1, wherein the head includes one or more mounting surfaces configured to support one or more additional objects.

5. The support system of claim 1, wherein the positioning assembly includes a positioning plate, the positioning plate configured to engage the actuator to restrict rotation of the body relative to the head.

6. The support system of claim 5, wherein the positioning plate includes one or more recesses configured to engage the actuator.

7. The support system of claim 1, wherein the actuator is slidably disposed within the body, the actuator configured to allow rotation of the body relative to the head when a force is applied to the actuator.PCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-8647938. The support system of claim 7, further comprising: a biasing member, the biasing member configured to apply a biasing force to the actuator.

9. The support system of claim 1, wherein the body includes a protrusion.

10. The support system of claim 9, wherein the body includes a plurality of arms, the protrusion disposed between the plurality of arms.

11. The support system of claim 1, wherein the leg includes a first portion slidably coupled to a second portion.

12. The support system of claim 11, further comprising: a clamp configured to restrict movement between the first portion and the second portion.

13. The support system of claim 1, wherein the support system is a tripod and the leg includes three legs.

14. The support system of claim 1, wherein the actuator includes a recessed portion and an engagement portion.

15. The support system of claim 14, wherein the recessed portion includes a recessed portion diameter and the engagement portion includes an engagement portion diameter, the recessed portion diameter is smaller than the engagement portion diameter.

16. The support system of claim 1, wherein the head is configured to apply a compressive force to a mounting assembly to releasably couple the mounting assembly to the head.

17. A method for assembling a support system, the method comprising: slidably coupling a first portion of a leg of the support system to a second portion of the leg; coupling the leg to a positioning assembly; andPCT Application Attorney Docket No. 117096-864793 coupling the positioning assembly to a head of the support system, the positioning assembly configured to selectively allow the leg to rotate relative to the head, the head configured to support an object.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: releasably coupling a quick release assembly to the leg, the quick release assembly releasably coupling the leg to the positioning assembly.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein the support system is a tripod.

20. A method of deploying a support system, the support system configured to support an object, the method comprising: releasing a clamp, the clamp configured to selectively restrict movement between a first portion of a leg of the support system to a second portion of the leg; translating one of the first portion or the second portion; engaging an actuator of a positioning assembly, the leg coupled to the positioning assembly, the positioning assembly coupled to a head of the support system; rotating the leg relative to the head; and retaining the leg in a selected position relative to the head using the positioning assembly.

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