Camera system

Abstract

An alignment system for aligning at least one camera unit with respect to a system base platform, the alignment system including a support structure, a camera unit alignment arrangement, and a platform mounting arrangement. The support structure includes a first side and second side, the camera unit alignment system being associated with the first side, and the platform mounting arrangement being associated with the second side. The camera unit alignment system enables adjustably mounting the camera unit with respect to the support structure. The platform mounting arrangement is configured for mounting the support structure with respect to the system base platform in a predetermined fixed spatial position with respect thereto. A camera system is also provided, including a plurality of camera units, a plurality of alignment systems, and a system base platform, each camera unit being mounted to the system base platform via a respective alignment system.

Description

[0001] CAMERA SYSTEM

[0002] TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0003] The presently disclosed subject matter relates to camera systems, in particular to camera systems having a plurality of cameras affixed onto a common platform.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Some camera systems house a number of cameras within a casing for providing a panoramic or semi panoramic view, while other camera systems are configured for providing a steady mechanical support for at least one camera, for example a tripod.

[0006] By way of general background, US 651,521 discloses a support for photographic hand-cameras consisting of a base plate adapted to fit on the top of a tripod, a frame piece attached to the said base-plate by a screw, the frame-piece having two radial arms extending across the base-plate with their ends bent up at right angles and adapted to receive and embrace the two opposite sides of a hand-camera, each end being fitted with a screw to pivotally support said camera on a line passing through its optical center, and a third radial arm extending rearward from said base with an elevating screw therein arranged and operating to vary the angular position of the camera and pivotal screws.

[0007] Also by way of general background, US 2012 / 223193 discloses a support stand having a stand base, mounting a tool support. At least first and second stand base legs extend parallel to each other below intermediate locations of the legs, and converge on each other above the intermediate locations. The parallel portions are readily pushed into soil / ground using an adult's weight. A support leg bracket joins a support leg to the top of the stand base, and accommodates adjusting the support leg for height, and rotation about a vertical axis. A first tool bracket on the support leg has upright and angular flanges which, collectively, enable rotation of the angular flange about a generally horizontal axis. A second tool bracket can be mounted to the support leg. The second tool bracket can rotate about the support leg and has second upright angular flanges which, collectively, enable rotation of the second angular flange about a second generally horizontal axis.

[0008] Also by way of general background, US 4,269,499 discloses a camera quadripod formed of a pair of bipods, each having a pair of adjustable legs and each having a pair of arms which can embrace a camera. The pair of bipods cooperate together in conjunction with the camera body so that they become a quadripod and serve to support the camera. The adjustment of the legs controls the orientation of the camera. The bipods are small enough to be carried in the photographer's pocket when not in use, and are quickly and easily engaged on and removed from the camera body.

[0009] Also by way of general background, US 2011 / 024596 discloses a monopod device for use with a camera, which uses one or more constant force helical springs to counterbalance the weight of a camera and lens, as well as a camera tilt mechanism, the combination of which effectively provides weight compensation that significantly reduces the lifting force required by a user to move the camera and provides stable image capture, camera control, and a reduced footprint when compared to existing tripods.

[0010] Also by way of general background, FR 1,299,053 discloses a support for a camera.

[0011] Also by way of general background, ES2535205 discloses a photogrammetric platform that allows the installation of a plurality of cameras in a support structure with at least side walls and a base. It comprises housings in the support structure in which there are bays intended to receive the cameras. It also comprises at least one additional support hingedly attached to the structure and which also has a bay. Also part of the platform is a fastening system intended to fix the inclination of the additional support with respect to the structure and a connection element arranged in the base intended to receive a connection tube intended to allow its placement in an external device that can be air or land.

[0012] Also by way of general background, CN 117369199 discloses a wild animal photographing equipment with a falling protection function. The photographic equipment comprises a mounting plate, a rotating device and an anti-collision device. The rotating device comprises a support, a lifting rod, a rotating disc, a sliding plate, a limiting rod, a

[0013] 03054662\24-03 speed limiting frame and an arc-shaped block. The support is hinged to the lower portion of the mounting plate, the lifting rod slidably penetrates through the upper wall and the lower wall of the mounting plate, the rotating disc is connected to the surface of the lifting rod in a sleeving mode, and a first sliding groove is formed in the lower portion of the rotating disc. A first sliding groove is formed in the surface of the mounting plate, a sliding plate is slidably mounted in the first sliding groove, a limiting rod is fixedly mounted below the sliding plate, a second sliding groove is formed in the surface of the mounting plate, a speed limiting frame is fixedly mounted in the second sliding groove, and an arc-shaped block is slidably mounted in the speed limiting frame.

[0014] Also by way of general background, US 2014 / 093229 discloses a device which allows a person to hold a camera with a first arm which extends longitudinally in the first extension direction. The first arm is designed to be attached to or detached from the camera and features a first free end and a chin rest surface provided on that first free end. The chin rest surface is designed to rest on the chin of the person holding the camera. A second arm extends from the first arm along the second extension direction and features a free end where a grip area is provided. This grip area is designed to allow a person to grasp the camera with one hand using the device and is kept separate from the chin rest surface along the first extension direction.

[0015] Also by way of general background, the SmallRig HawkLock Quick Release Advanced Cage Kit for Sony Alpha 7R V / Alpha 7 IV / Alpha 7S III 4539 is designed for easy disassembly when shooting handheld, reducing the burden on the arm to enhance stability, while offering a wide range of accessory mounts.

[0016] Also by way of general background, CN 113163130 discloses a photography auxiliary device, a calibration method for image pair acquisition, and an electronic device. The photography auxiliary device comprises: a driving assembly; a gimbal assembly connected to the driving assembly; a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion, which are arranged on the gimbal assembly, wherein the gimbal assembly can drive the first mounting portion and the second mounting portion to move when the driving assembly drives the gimbal assembly to move, the first mounting portion is used for fixing a first image acquisition apparatus, and the second mounting portion is used for fixing a second image acquisition apparatus; and an alignment mechanism, which is

[0017] 03054662\24-03 connected to the second mounting portion and used to adjust the specific position of the second mounting portion to enable the optical center of the second image acquisition apparatus to be aligned with the optical center of the first image acquisition apparatus.

[0018] Also by way of general background, CN 203099260 discloses a portable fixed camera clamping groove structure which comprises a fixed seat component, a mounting and demounting device and a fixing device. A camera is mounted on a camera quick release plate component which is mounted on the fixed seat component through the mounting and demounting device, and the fixed seat component can be fixedly mounted on belts of luggages like a knapsack and a single-shoulder bag through the fixing device. The camera quick release plate component is universal to a camera quick release plate of a common photographing tripod, in other words, the camera quick release plate can be directly mounted on the common photographing tripod for the convenience of a photographer to carry multiple cameras simultaneously, when replacement is needed, only the cameras and the quick release plate component need to be demounted from or fixed on the fixed seat component, great convenience is brought to the photographer for replacement of the cameras, and confusion of the multiple cameras can be avoided.

[0019] Also by way of general background, US 2023 / 298193 discloses a plurality of photographing units each provided with a camera, and a base to which the plurality of photographing units are attached, wherein camera alignment for each of the plurality of photographing units can be adjusted independently.

[0020] Also by way of general background, US 2019 / 127084 discloses a camera mounting apparatus for an airborne oblique photogrammetric system that is simple in structure, scalable in the number of capturing cameras, and adjustable in tilt angle. The camera mounting apparatus includes: at least one oblique hanger plate for mounting an oblique camera, a parallel hanger plate securely connected to an aircraft chassis, and a tilt angle adjusting assembly for connecting the oblique hanger plate to the parallel hanger plate in an angle-adjustable manner. The tilt angle adjusting assembly further includes a first fixed bearing secured to the parallel hanger plate, a second fixed bearing secured to the oblique hanger plate opposite to the first fixed bearing, a hinged bearing hinging the oblique hanger plate to the parallel hanger plate, and an angle adjusting sheet connected between the first fixed bearing and the second fixed bearing.

[0021] 03054662\24-03 Also by way of general background, US 2015 / 184792 discloses a device for the stable and zero backlash adjustment of a camera-holding device around at least one tilting axis, in particular on a device for multi-channel image capture, wherein the adjustment device comprises two plates joined to one another so as to be tiltable, and wherein the upper plate as camera support plate carries the camera at least indirectly and is connected to the lower plate acting as base plate. The device is characterised in that a displaceable ramp slide having two oppositely inclined running ramps is arranged on the base plate, in that between the two running ramps there is a joint by which the camera support plate is joined to the base plate, in that the camera support plate comprises two guide pins that are spaced apart from one another and are guided on the running ramps, and in that the device is designed in such a manner that by displacing the ramp slide the camera support plate assumes, with zero backlash, a defined tilting angle with respect to the base plate.

[0022] Also by way of general background, US 2015 / 029313 discloses a method for aligning at least two image recording elements of two camera modules of a stereo camera system, in particular with respect to their roll angle relative to one another, as well as to a stereo camera system whose camera modules or image recording elements are aligned in accordance with such method.

[0023] Also by way of general background, CN 206001215 discloses an adjustable camera stand for dual cameras and a dual -camera animated picture shooting device and relates to the field of shooting equipment. The adjustable camera stand is used for fixing the dual cameras, and comprises a base, a visual angle correcting mechanism and two camera body bases. The two camera body bases are fixed to the base and used for being fixedly connected with camera bodies. The visual angle correcting mechanism is used for driving lenses of the two cameras to rotate relative to the base so that the visual angles of the two cameras can be adjusted. The dual-camera animated picture shooting device comprises the adjustable camera stand, a shutter controller and the two cameras. The two cameras are both fixed to the adjustable camera stand. The visual angle correcting mechanism is connected with the lenses of the two cameras. The shutter controller controls shutters of the two cameras to be triggered simultaneously.

[0024] Also by way of general background, KR 101857788 discloses a rig device for a 360 degrees multi-view camera. The rig device comprises: a rig body which is formed in

[0025] 03054662\24-03 a disc shape and protects and supports each device from external pressure; a vertical front surface camera mounting frame which is located on the edge of the rig body and detachably holds a 360 degrees multi-view camera to face the front direction in a vertical upright position; a horizontal-type upper surface camera holding frame; a horizontal-type lower surface camera holding frame; a first variable link bar; a second variable link bar; and a main support.

[0026] Also by way of general background, US 2014 / 153916 discloses a camera holding assembly that is configured to hold a plurality of cameras in a predetermined orientation includes a support having a plurality of receptacles. Each of the receptacles includes at least one feature enabling a camera to be releasably retained therein as well as at least one and preferably at least three attachment features configured for enabling the camera holding assembly to be secured to another object. The receptacles are oriented about the support so that each camera, when loaded into the defined receptacles, is aimed in a different angular orientation.

[0027] GENERAL DESCRIPTION

[0028] According to a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided a camera support for a camera, the camera having an optical axis, a plan footprint and a center of gravity, the camera support comprising a support body and a flange element, wherein: the support body is configured for enabling the camera to be fixedly attached to the camera support in a manner to thereby provide a fixed and predetermined spatial orientation between the camera optical axis and the camera support; for example the support body is so structured as to enable fixedly attaching the camera to the camera support in a manner to thereby provide a fixed and predetermined spatial orientation between the camera optical axis and the camera support; the flange element comprising flange zones projecting outwardly with respect to the plan footprint, the flange zones being configured for enabling the camera support to be affixed to an external structure via the flange zones; for example the flange element fixedly attached to the support body, the flange element comprising flange zones projecting outwardly with respect to the plan footprint, the flange zones 03054662\24-03 enabling the camera support to be affixed to an external structure via fasteners at the flange zones.

[0029] For example, the support body is so dimensioned as be in abutting load-bearing contact with the camera when the support body is fixedly attached to the camera.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the support body comprises a base element and at least one lateral support element, wherein the base element is configured for being affixed to an underside of the camera, and wherein the lateral support element is configured for being affixed to a lateral side of the camera.

[0031] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the support body comprises a base element, a first lateral support element, and a second lateral support element, wherein the base element is configured for being affixed to an underside of the camera, wherein the first lateral support element is configured for being affixed to one lateral side of the camera, and wherein the second lateral support element is configured for being affixed to another lateral side of the camera. For example, the first lateral support element and the second lateral support element are laterally spaced from one another by a lateral spacing corresponding to a lateral dimension of the camera. Additionally or alternatively, for example, each one of the first lateral support element and the second lateral support element comprises a respective clamping arrangement for clamping with a respective lateral strap flange of the camera. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the base element comprises a camera mounting screw for screwing the base element with respect to a complementary screw well provided in the underside of the camera.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the camera support comprises a positioning pin projecting from an underside of the camera support, the positioning pin being so positioned on the underside of the camera support as to be enable the camera support to be positioned on the external structure at a predetermined position with respect thereto. Alternatively, for example, the camera support comprises a positioning pin projecting from an underside of the camera support, the positioning pin being so positioned on the underside of the camera support as to be enable the camera support to be positioned on the external structure at a predetermined position with respect thereto, while allowing relative rotational movement between the camera support and the external structure about the positioning pin.

[0033] 03054662\24-03 Additionally or alternatively, for example, the support body comprises a forward ridge dimensioned for abutting a forward face of the camera such as to constrain the camera in said fixed and predetermined spatial orientation between the camera optical axis and the camera support along a first direction parallel to the camera optical axis.

[0034] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the camera support comprises at least one first said flange zone projecting forward with respect to the support body, and at least one second said flange zone projecting aft with respect to the support body. For example, each said forward flange comprises a respective attachment point that is spaced forward from the center of gravity at a first spacing in a direction parallel to the optical axis. Additionally or alternatively, for example, each said aft flange zone comprises a respective attachment point that is spaced aft from the center of gravity at a second spacing in a direction parallel to the optical axis. For example, each one of the first spacing and the second spacing is significantly greater than half of a camera body width of a camera body of the camera. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the first spacing is any one of: more than 60% of half the camera body width, or more than 70% of half the camera body width, or more than 80% of half the camera body width, or more than 90% of half the camera body width, or more than 100% of half the camera body width, or more than 120% of half the camera body width, or more than 140% of half the camera body width, or more than 160% of half the camera body width, or more than 180% of half the camera body width, or more than 200% of half the camera body width, or more than 220% of half the camera body width, or more than 250% of half the camera body width. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the second spacing is any one of: more than 60% of half the camera body width, or more than 70% of half the camera body width, or more than 80% of half the camera body width, or more than 90% of half the camera body width, or more than 100% of half the camera body width, or more than 120% of half the camera body width, or more than 140% of half the camera body width, or more than 160% of half the camera body width, or more than 180% of half the camera body width, or more than 200% of half the camera body width, or more than 220% of half the camera body width, or more than 250% of half the camera body width. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the first spacing and the second spacing are similar to one another in magnitude. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the first spacing is any one of: between zero and ±10% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±30% of the

[0035] 03054662\24-03 second spacing, or between zero and ±40% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±50% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±60% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±70% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±80% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±90% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±100% of the second spacing, or between zero and more than ±100% of the second spacing.

[0036] Additionally or alternatively, for example, each said attachment point comprises at least one through hole sized for enabling a corresponding bolt to thereby bolt the respective flange zone to the external structure.

[0037] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the camera support further comprises the external structure affixed to the camera support.

[0038] According to this aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is provided a camera assembly comprising:

[0039] - the camera support as defined herein regarding the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter; a camera, fixedly attached to the camera support wherein the camera optical axis is in said fixed and predetermined spatial orientation with respect to the camera support.

[0040] According to this aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is also provided a camera system comprising a plurality of camera assemblies, each camera assembly being as defined herein regarding the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, a plurality of respective alignment systems, and a system base platform, wherein each said camera assembly is mounted to the system base platform via a respective said alignment system, and wherein each alignment system is configured for aligning the respective camera assembly with respect to the system base platform.

[0041] For example, the alignment system comprising a support structure, a camera assembly alignment arrangement, and a platform mounting arrangement, wherein: the support structure comprises a first side and second side, the camera assembly alignment system being associated with the first side, and the platform mounting arrangement being associated with the second side;

[0042] 03054662\24-03 the camera assembly alignment system being configured for enabling adjustably mounting the camera assembly with respect to the support structure; the platform mounting arrangement being configured for mounting the support structure with respect to the system base platform in a predetermined fixed spatial position with respect to the system base platform.

[0043] For example, the camera assembly defines a camera optical axis, and wherein the alignment system is configured for aligning the camera optical axis with respect to the system base platform in a predetermined elevation angle and a predetermined azimuth angle with respect to the system base platform.

[0044] For example, said predetermined elevation angle is nominally zero.

[0045] Additionally or alternatively, for example, said support structure is in the form of a plate comprising a first plate surface and a second plate surface, separated from one another by a plate thickness, wherein the first plate surface defines said first side and the plate second surface defines said second side. For example, said first plate surface comprises a first abutment surface portion complementary to a camera assembly surface portion. Additionally or alternatively, for example, said second plate surface comprises a second abutment surface portion complementary to a system base platform surface portion. Additionally or alternatively, for example, said thickness is uniform, and / or said first abutment surface portion and said second abutment surface portion are nominally parallel to one another; or, for example, said first abutment surface portion and said second abutment surface portion are at a non-zero inclination angle with respect to one another.

[0046] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the camera assembly alignment system is configured for fixing the relative position of the camera assembly with respect to the support structure with respect to three degrees of freedom in translation, and to allow relative pivoting between the camera assembly and the support structure about a pivot axis to thereby enable the camera assembly to be mounted to the support structure in a plurality of alternative and adjustable relative pivot positions about the pivot axis. For example, the camera assembly alignment system comprises a first pin and orifice arrangement including a first pin provided at a fixed location in one of the first side and the camera assembly, and a complementary first orifice provided at a fixed location in the 03054662\24-03 other one of the first side and the camera assembly, wherein the first pin is received in the first orifice in a direction coaxial with the pivot axis when the camera assembly is mounted to the alignment system. For example, the first pin is provided at a respective said fixed location in the first side, and wherein the respective said complementary first orifice provided at said fixed location in the camera assembly. Alternatively, for example, the first pin is provided at a respective said fixed location in the camera assembly, and wherein the respective said complementary first orifice provided at said fixed location in the first side. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the camera assembly alignment system comprises a plurality of first mounting screws configured for securing the camera assembly with respect to the support structure. For example, the camera assembly comprises a plurality of through slots corresponding to the plurality of said first mounting screws, wherein each said through slot is curved having a center of curvature coaxial with the pivot axis, wherein each said first mounting screw passes through the respective said through slot, each said first mounting screw having a pre-engaged configuration allowing said relative pivoting between the camera assembly and the support structure about the pivot axis, and an engaged configuration in which the camera assembly and the support structure are secured with respect to one another and relative movement between the camera assembly and the support structure is prevented.

[0047] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the camera system comprises at least one adjustment screw assembly configured for setting a relative pivot orientation between the camera assembly and the support structure about the pivot axis. For example, each said adjustment screw assembly comprises a respective screw and a respective screw reaction surface, wherein the screw is rotatably mounted to the support structure in a manner enabling the screw to be reversibly and selectively advanced along a screw axis towards and push against the respective screw reaction surface to thereby pivot the camera assembly with respect to the support structure about the pivot axis, and wherein each said screw reaction surface is provided in the camera assembly. For example, each said screw axis is orthogonal to a respective radial line through the pivot axis.

[0048] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the platform mounting arrangement comprises at least two second pin and orifice arrangements, each said second pin and orifice arrangement including at least one second pin provided in a fixed location in one of the second side and the system base platform, and a complementary second orifice 03054662\24-03 provided in a fixed location in the other one of the second side and the system base platform, the second pins of the respective at least two said second pin and orifice arrangements being spaced from one another, the second pins of the respective at least two said second pin and orifice arrangements being receivable in the respective second orifices along a receivable insertion direction, wherein the support structure is prevented from translating or rotating with respect to the system base platform via the second pin and orifice arrangements with respect to planes orthogonal to the insertion direction when the second pins of the respective at least two said second pin and orifice arrangements are received in the respective second orifices.

[0049] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the platform mounting arrangement comprises a plurality of second mounting screws configured for securing the support structure with respect to the system base platform. For example, the support structure comprises a plurality of through holes corresponding to the plurality of said second mounting screws, wherein each said second mounting screw passes through the respective said through hole, each said second mounting screw having an engaged configuration in which relative movement between the support structure and the system base platform is prevented.

[0050] According to a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, there is provided an alignment system for aligning at least one camera unit with respect to a system base platform, each camera unit having a respective optical axis in fixed spatial relationship with respect thereto, the alignment system comprising a support structure, a camera unit alignment arrangement, and a platform mounting arrangement, wherein: the support structure comprises a first side and second side, the camera unit alignment system being associated with the first side, and the platform mounting arrangement being associated with the second side; the camera unit alignment system being configured for enabling adjustably mounting the camera unit with respect to the support structure; the platform mounting arrangement being configured for mounting the support structure with respect to the system base platform in a predetermined fixed spatial position with respect to the system base platform.

[0051] 03054662\24-03 For example, the camera unit defines a camera optical axis, and wherein the alignment system is configured for aligning the camera optical axis with respect to the system base platform in a predetermined elevation angle and a predetermined azimuth angle with respect to the system base platform. For example, said predetermined elevation angle is nominally zero.

[0052] Additionally or alternatively, for example, said support structure is in the form of a plate comprising a first plate surface and a second plate surface, separated from one another by a plate thickness, wherein the first plate surface defines said first side and the plate second surface defines said second side. For example, said first plate surface comprises a first abutment surface portion complementary to a camera unit surface portion. Additionally or alternatively, for example, said second plate surface comprises a second abutment surface portion complementary to a system base platform surface portion. Additionally or alternatively, for example, said thickness is uniform. Additionally or alternatively, for example, said first abutment surface portion and said second abutment surface portion are nominally parallel to one another, or, said first abutment surface portion and said second abutment surface portion are at a non-zero inclination angle with respect to one another.

[0053] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the camera unit alignment system is configured for fixing the relative position of the camera unit with respect to the support structure with respect to three degrees of freedom in translation, and to allow relative pivoting between the camera unit and the support structure about a pivot axis to thereby enable the camera unit to be mounted to the support structure in a plurality of alternative and adjustable relative pivot positions about the pivot axis. For example, the camera unit alignment system comprises a first pin and orifice arrangement including a first pin provided at a fixed location in one of the first side and the camera unit, and a complementary first orifice provided at a fixed location in the other one of the first side and the camera unit, wherein the first pin is received in the first orifice in a direction coaxial with the pivot axis when the camera unit is mounted to the alignment system. For example, the first pin is provided at a respective said fixed location in the first side, and wherein the respective said complementary first orifice provided at said fixed location in the camera unit. For example, the first pin is provided at a respective said fixed location in the camera unit, and wherein the respective said complementary first orifice provided 03054662\24-03 at said fixed location in the first side. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the camera unit alignment system comprises a plurality of first mounting screws configured for securing the camera unit with respect to the support structure. For example, the camera unit comprises a plurality of through slots corresponding to the plurality of said first mounting screws, wherein each said through slot is curved having a center of curvature coaxial with the pivot axis, wherein each said first mounting screw passes through the respective said through slot, each said first mounting screw having a preengaged configuration allowing said relative pivoting between the camera unit and the support structure about the pivot axis, and an engaged configuration in which the camera unit and the support structure are secured with respect to one another and relative movement between the camera unit and the support structure is prevented.

[0054] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the alignment system comprises at least one adjustment screw assembly configured for setting a relative pivot orientation between the camera unit and the support structure about the pivot axis. For example, each said adjustment screw assembly comprises a respective screw and a respective screw reaction surface, wherein the screw is rotatably mounted to the support structure in a manner enabling the screw to be reversibly and selectively advanced along a screw axis towards and push against the respective screw reaction surface to thereby pivot the camera unit with respect to the support structure about the pivot axis, and wherein each said screw reaction surface is provided in the camera unit. For example, each said screw axis is orthogonal to a respective radial line through the pivot axis.

[0055] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the platform mounting arrangement comprises at least two second pin and orifice arrangements, each said second pin and orifice arrangement including at least one second pin provided in a fixed location in one of the second side and the system base platform, and a complementary second orifice provided in a fixed location in the other one of the second side and the system base platform, the second pins of the respective at least two said second pin and orifice arrangements being spaced from one another, the second pins of the respective at least two said second pin and orifice arrangements being receivable in the respective second orifices along a receivable insertion direction, wherein the support structure is prevented from translating or rotating with respect to the system base platform via the second pin and orifice arrangements with respect to planes orthogonal to the insertion direction 03054662\24-03 when the second pins of the respective at least two said second pin and orifice arrangements are received in the respective second orifices.

[0056] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the platform mounting arrangement comprises a plurality of second mounting screws configured for securing the support structure with respect to the system base platform. For example, the support structure comprises a plurality of through holes corresponding to the plurality of said second mounting screws, wherein each said second mounting screw passes through the respective said through hole, each said second mounting screw having an engaged configuration in which relative movement between the support structure and the system base platform is prevented.

[0057] According to this aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter there is also provided a camera system comprising a plurality of camera units, a plurality of alignment systems, and a system base platform, wherein each said camera unit is mounted to the system base platform via a respective said alignment system, and wherein each alignment system is as defined herein regarding the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0058] For example, each said camera unit comprises a camera and a camera support assembled with respect to one another, the camera having an optical axis, a plan footprint and a center of gravity, wherein the camera is fixedly attached to the camera support wherein the camera optical axis is in said fixed and predetermined spatial orientation with respect to the camera support. For example, the camera support comprises a support body and a flange element, wherein: the support body is configured for enabling the camera to be fixedly attached to the camera support in a manner to thereby provide a fixed and predetermined spatial orientation between the camera optical axis and the camera support; for example the support body is so structured as to fixedly attach the camera to the camera support in a manner to thereby provide a fixed and predetermined spatial orientation between the camera optical axis and the camera support; the flange element comprising flange zones projecting outwardly with respect to the plan footprint, the flange zones being configured for enabling the camera support to be affixed to an external structure via the flange zones; for example the 03054662\24-03 flange element fixedly attached to the support body, the flange element comprising flange zones projecting outwardly with respect to the plan footprint, the flange zones enabling the camera support to be affixed to an external structure via fasteners at the flange zones.

[0059] For example, the support body is so dimensioned as be in abutting load-bearing contact with the camera when the support body is fixedly attached to the camera.

[0060] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the support body comprises a base element and at least one lateral support element, wherein the base element is configured for being affixed to an underside of the camera, and wherein the lateral support element is configured for being affixed to a lateral side of the camera.

[0061] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the support body comprises a base element, a first lateral support element, and a second lateral support element, wherein the base element is configured for being affixed to an underside of the camera, wherein the first lateral support element is configured for being affixed to one lateral side of the camera, and wherein the second lateral support element is configured for being affixed to another lateral side of the camera. For example, the first lateral support element and the second lateral support element are laterally spaced from one another by a lateral spacing corresponding to a lateral dimension of the camera.

[0062] Additionally or alternatively, for example, each one of the first lateral support element and the second lateral support element comprises a respective clamping arrangement for clamping with a respective lateral strap flange of the camera.

[0063] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the base element comprises a camera mounting screw for screwing the base element with respect to a complementary screw well provided in the underside of the camera.

[0064] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the camera system comprises a positioning pin projecting from an underside of the camera support, the positioning pin being so positioned on the underside of the camera support as to be enable the camera support to be positioned on the respective alignment system at a predetermined position with respect thereto.

[0065] 03054662\24-03 Additionally or alternatively, for example, the camera system comprises a positioning pin projecting from an underside of the camera support, the positioning pin being so positioned on the underside of the camera support as to be enable the camera support to be positioned on the respective alignment system at a predetermined position with respect thereto, while allowing relative rotational movement between the camera support and the respective alignment system about the positioning pin.

[0066] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the support body comprises a forward ridge dimensioned for abutting a forward face of the camera such as to constrain the camera in said fixed and predetermined spatial orientation between the camera optical axis and the camera support along a first direction parallel to the camera optical axis.

[0067] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the camera system comprises at least one first said flange zone projecting forward with respect to the support body, and at least one second said flange zone projecting aft with respect to the support body. For example, each said forward flange comprises a respective attachment point that is spaced forward from the center of gravity at a first spacing in a direction parallel to the optical axis. Additionally or alternatively, for example, each said aft flange zone comprises a respective attachment point that is spaced aft from the center of gravity at a second spacing in a direction parallel to the optical axis. For example, each one of the first spacing and the second spacing is significantly greater than half of a camera body width of a camera body of the camera. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the first spacing is any one of: more than 60% of half the camera body width, or more than 70% of half the camera body width, or more than 80% of half the camera body width, or more than 90% of half the camera body width, or more than 100% of half the camera body width, or more than 120% of half the camera body width, or more than 140% of half the camera body width, or more than 160% of half the camera body width, or more than 180% of half the camera body width, or more than 200% of half the camera body width, or more than 220% of half the camera body width, or more than 250% of half the camera body width. Additionally or alternatively, for example, the second spacing is any one of: more than 60% of half the camera body width, or more than 70% of half the camera body width, or more than 80% of half the camera body width, or more than 90% of half the camera body width, or more than 100% of half the camera body width, or more than 120% of half the camera body width, or more than 140% of half the camera body width, or more than 160% of half the 03054662\24-03 camera body width, or more than 180% of half the camera body width, or more than 200% of half the camera body width, or more than 220% of half the camera body width, or more than 250% of half the camera body width.

[0068] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the first spacing and the second spacing are similar to one another in magnitude.

[0069] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the first spacing is any one of: between zero and ±10% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±30% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±40% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±50% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±60% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±70% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±80% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±90% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±100% of the second spacing, or between zero and more than ±100% of the second spacing.

[0070] Additionally or alternatively, for example, each said attachment point comprises at least one through hole sized for enabling a corresponding bolt to thereby bolt the respective flange zone to the respective alignment system.

[0071] Additionally or alternatively, for example, the camera system further comprises the respective alignment system affixed to the camera support.

[0072] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0073] In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it can be carried out in practice, examples will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0074] Fig. 1A is a plan / side / front isometric view of a camera system according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter; Fig. IB is a plan / side / back isometric view of the example of Fig. 1A.

[0075] Fig- 2 is a plan view of the example of Fig. 1A schematically illustrating respective fields of view.

[0076] 03054662\24-03 Fig. 3A is a plan / side / front isometric view of a camera assembly affixed to an external structure according to an example of the presently disclosed subject matter; Fig. 3B is a top / side / back isometric view of the example of Fig. 3A.

[0077] Fig. 4A is a plan view of a camera of a camera assembly example of Fig. 3 A, schematically illustrating a plan periphery and footprint thereof; Fig. 4B is a plan view of the camera assembly example of Fig. 3 A, schematically illustrating the plan periphery and footprint of the example of Fig. 4A.

[0078] Fig. 5A is a plan / side / front isometric disassembled view of the example of Fig. 3A; Fig. 5B is a plan / side / back isometric disassembled view of the example of Fig. 5A.

[0079] Fig- 6 is a plan view of the camera assembly example of Fig. 3 A.

[0080] Fig- 7 is a side view of the example of Fig. 3 A.

[0081] Fig- 8 is a plan / side / front angled disassembled view of the camera support and external structure example of Fig. 3 A.

[0082] Fig. 9 is a bottom / side / front angled disassembled view of the camera support and external structure example of Fig. 3 A.

[0083] Fig. 10 is a plan view of the system base platform example of Fig. 1A, schematically illustrating the positions of the respective alignment systems thereon.

[0084] Fig. 11 is a plan view of the example of Fig. 8.

[0085] Fig. 12 is a plan / front isometric view of a camera system example of Fig. 1 A prior to final mounting.

[0086] Fig. 13 is a plan / aft isometric view of a camera system example of Fig. 12.

[0087] Fig. 14 is a plan view of the system base platform example of Fig. 1A, with the respective alignment systems mounted thereon.

[0088] 03054662\24-03 DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0089] Referring to Figs. 1 A and IB, a camera system according to a first example of the presently disclosed subject matter, generally designated 100, comprises a plurality of camera assemblies 300, mounted to a system base platform 600 via respective alignment systems 800.

[0090] Referring also to Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B, each camera assembly 300 (also interchangeably referred to herein as a camera unit) comprises a respective imaging camera 310 comprising a camera lens system 320 and camera body 350, and having a respective optical axis OA projecting outwardly from the respective camera lens system 320. Each respective optical axis OA corresponds to a line of sight LOS for the respective imaging camera 310 and camera assembly 300.

[0091] In at least some examples, and referring also to Fig. 7, the camera 310 includes an internally-threaded, screw well 315 provided in the underside 312 of the camera 310. The screw well 315 allows the camera 310 to be secured to tripods and the like via a compatible camera mounting screw 340. In many commercial examples of cameras, such a screw well 315 is provided as standard, and the standard mounting screw is often referred to as a tripod screw.

[0092] In at least some implementations of this example, the camera system 100 can be accommodated in a suitable casing, for example a weather-proof casing, the casing comprising a plurality of windows, each window being optically transparent and in registry with the lens system 320 of a respective camera assembly 300 along the respective optical axis OA

[0093] In at least some examples, the casing can be air-tight and filled with inert gases, for example nitrogen gas, for minimizing risk of corrosion.

[0094] In at least this example, each imaging camera 310 is a digital camera, capable of recording still images and / or video images via a respective camera sensor (not shown) housed in the respective camera body 350, and configured for transmitting digital signals corresponding to such images, for example via a corresponding cable 325 and / or wirelessly.

[0095] In at least this example, the cameras 310 can also be operated via a controller (not shown), for example via suitable cables and / or wirelessly.

[0096] 03054662\24-03 In at least this example, each imaging camera 310 (and the camera assembly 300) defines a respective field of view FOV in azimuth and elevation, which in turn defines the portion of the visual landscape that can be imaged by the respective camera 310. Each FOV is typically defined by the focal length of the camera lens system 320 and the sensor size of the camera sensor of the respective camera 310, the sensor size being typically defined by the size and number of pixels in the respective sensor.

[0097] While in at least this example, the camera system 100 comprises three camera assemblies 300, in alternative variations of this example the respective camera system can instead include one or two respective camera assemblies, or more than three, for example four, five, six or more than six, respective camera assemblies.

[0098] While in at least this example the respective optical axes OA (and thus the respective lines of sight LOS) of the plurality of cameras 310 are coplanar, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the respective optical axes OA can be on parallel but spaced planes, or, can be along non-parallel planes.

[0099] Referring also to Fig. 2, in at least this example, the camera system 100 is configured for providing an enhanced field of view EFOV that is greater, at least in azimuth, than the individual fields of view FOV of the individual camera assemblies 300. For this purpose, the respective camera assemblies 300 are positioned with respect to the system base platform 600 such that the respective optical axes OA are non-parallel with respect to one another, and for example the respective optical axes OA of each adjacent pair of camera assemblies 300 mutually diverge with respect to one another and originate from a common geometric imaginary origin OR. For example, the angular extent of the enhanced field of view EFOV can be about "n" times the angular extent of the FOV of each camera 310, wherein "n" is the number of cameras 310, which in at least this example is 3. In at least this example, the individual fields of view FOV of the individual camera assemblies 300 overlap in the enhanced field of view EFOV, enabling the camera system 100 to provide a combined contiguous image from the three cameras.

[0100] In at least this example, the cameras 310 are similar to one another, for example the same make and model, and / or have the same optical specifications, and have the same field of view FOV with respect to one another, in terms of the local azimuth range as well as in local elevation range, i.e., the angular width in azimuth and elevation as referenced from the 03054662\24-03 respective field of view FOV. However, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the respective cameras can be different from another, and optionally can have different fields of view FOV with respect to one another.

[0101] According to a first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, each camera assembly 300 is configured for enhancing the ability of the camera assembly 300 to resist bending moments and other mechanical loads, as compared with mounting each camera 310 to an external structure solely via the screw well 315 and the corresponding camera mounting screw 340. In at least some examples, the external structure is a respective alignment system 800 and optionally includes the system base platform 600.

[0102] Referring to Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B, each camera 310 defines a plan footprint FP, which is an area bounded by the outer periphery PR of the camera 310 when the camera 310 is viewed in plan view.

[0103] Referring also to Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B, each camera assembly 300 comprises a respective camera support (also interchangeably referred to herein as a camera cradle) 400 configured for enabling the camera 310 to be selectively securely affixed to the camera support 400 in a predetermined spatial relationship.

[0104] The predetermined spatial relationship is such that the respective optical axis OA is at a known, predetermined, and fixed optical axis spatial orientation and position with respect to the camera support 400.

[0105] The camera support 400 includes a support body 450 and a flange element 480.

[0106] As will become clearer herein, the support body 450 is configured for enabling the respective camera 310 to be fixedly attached to the camera support 400 in a manner to thereby provide the aforesaid known, predetermined, and fixed optical axis spatial orientation and position between the camera optical axis OA and the camera support 400. In particular the support body 450 is so structured as to fixedly attach the camera 310 to the camera support 400 in a manner to thereby provide the fixed and predetermined spatial orientation between the camera optical axis OA and the camera support 400.

[0107] Also as will become clearer herein, the flange element 480 comprises one or more flange zones 490 projecting (in plan view) outwardly with respect to the plan footprint FP,

[0108] 03054662\24-03 the flange zones 490 being configured for enabling the camera support 400 to be affixed to an external structure via the flange zones 490, as will become clearer herein. In at least some examples, the external structure is a respective alignment system 800 optionally including the system base platform 600. The flange element 480 is fixedly attached to the support body 450,

[0109] The support body 450 is so dimensioned as be in abutting load-bearing contact with the camera 310 when fixedly attached thereto. In particular, loads between the flange element 480 and the camera 310 are transmitted via the support body 450. Such loads are typically mechanical loads, and can include static loads and / or dynamic loads. In at least some applications, in which the camera system is exposed to the atmosphere and / or to a marine environment, such loads can include aerodynamic loads and / or hydraulic loads, respectively.

[0110] In at least this example, the support body 450 is generally U-shaped, and comprises a base element 455, a first lateral support element 454, and a second lateral support element 456. However, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the respective support body omits one of the first lateral support element and the second lateral support element, and the respective support body has only the other one of the first lateral support element and the second lateral support element joined to the respective base element.

[0111] The first lateral support element 454 and the second lateral support element 456 are laterally spaced from one another by a lateral spacing LS corresponding to a lateral dimension LD of the camera 310.

[0112] In at least this example, the first lateral support element 454 and the second lateral support element 456 are fixedly connected to the base element 455 in a fixed spatial relationship with respect to one another.

[0113] In at least this example, the first lateral support element 454 and the second lateral support element 456 are fixedly connected to the base element 455 via respective screws or bolts 451. Alternatively, the first lateral support element 454 and the second lateral support element 456 can be fixedly connected to the base element 455 via any suitable fasteners, for example rivets or clamps. In at least some alternative variations of this example the first lateral support element 454 and the second lateral support element 456

[0114] 03054662\24-03 are fixedly connected to the base element 455 via welding, or, the first lateral support element 454 and the second lateral support element 456 are integrally formed with the base element 455 in the corresponding aforesaid fixed spatial relationship with respect to one another.

[0115] The base element 455 is configured for being affixed to the underside 312 of the camera 310. In at least this example, the base element 455 comprises the camera mounting screw 340 for screwing the base element 455 (and thus for screwing the support body 450) with respect to a complementary, internally-threaded, screw well 315 provided in the underside 312 of the camera 310.

[0116] In at least this example, the camera 310 comprises a first lateral strap flange 332 on one side of the camera body 350, and a second lateral strap flange 334 on the other side of the camera body 350. The two strap flanges 332, 334 are configured for enabling a camera strap to be affixed thereto.

[0117] The first lateral support element 454 is configured for being affixed to one lateral side of the camera 310, thereby preventing relative movement between the first lateral support element 454 and the camera 310. In at least this example, the first lateral support element 454 comprises a strut having a bottom end 431 configured for being connected to one lateral side of the base element 455, and an upper end 432 configured for being selectively connected to one side of the camera 310.

[0118] In at least this example, the first lateral support element 454 comprises a respective first clamping arrangement 460 for clamping with the respective first lateral strap flange 332 of the camera 310. In at least this example, the first clamping arrangement 460 comprises a pair of opposed jaws 462, spaced from one another by a spacing correlated to a thickness of the first lateral strap flange 332, and positioned on the upper end 432, such that the first lateral strap flange 332 is received between the two jaws 462 when the camera 310 is in an affixing position with respect to the support body 450.

[0119] In at least this example, the first lateral strap flange 332 comprises a through hole, and a suitable screw or bolt 333 is passed between corresponding aligned holes in the jaws 462 and the first lateral strap flange 332 through-hole, thereby clamping the first lateral strap flange 332 between the two jaws 462.

[0120] 03054662\24-03 The second lateral support element 456 is configured for being affixed to the other lateral side of the camera 310, thereby preventing relative movement between the second lateral support element 456 and the camera 310. In at least this example, the second lateral support element 456 comprises a strut having a bottom end 436 configured for being connected to the corresponding lateral side of the base element 455, and an upper end 437 configured for being selectively connected to the other side of the camera 310.

[0121] In at least this example, the second lateral support element 456 comprises a respective second clamping arrangement 465 for clamping with the respective second lateral strap flange 334 of the camera 310. In at least this example, the second clamping arrangement 465 comprises a pair of opposed jaws 466, spaced from one another by a spacing correlated to a thickness of the second lateral strap flange 334, and positioned on the upper end 437, such that the second lateral strap flange 334 is received between the two j aws 466 when the camera 310 is in an affixing position with respect to the support body 450.

[0122] In at least this example, the second lateral strap flange 334 comprises a through hole, and a suitable screw or bolt 336 is passed between corresponding aligned holes in the jaws 466 and the second lateral strap flange 334 through-hole, thereby clamping the second lateral strap flange 334 between the two jaws 466.

[0123] In at least this example, the support body 450 comprises a forward ridge 499 dimensioned for abutting a forward face 319 of the camera 310 such as to constrain the camera in the aforesaid fixed and predetermined spatial orientation between the camera optical axis OA and the camera support 400 along a first direction parallel to the camera optical axis OA. The forward ridge 499 projects in an upward direction from the base element 455, and the forward face 319 of the camera 310 abuts the forward ridge 499 when the camera 310 is in an affixing position with respect to the support body 450. Thus, the position and orientation of the forward ridge 499 with respect to the support body 450 is such as to ensure that when the forward face 319 of the camera 310 is abutted against the forward ridge 499 the optical axis OA is projecting forward of the support 400 in a predetermined spatial orientation with respect thereto. For example, the optical axis OA is orthogonal to the length of the forward ridge 499.

[0124] Thus, the forward ridge 499 determines the position of the camera 310 in a direction parallel to the optical axis OA, while the base element 455 determines the position of the 03054662\24-03 camera 310 in a vertical direction orthogonal to the optical axis OA, and at least one of the first lateral support element 454 and the second lateral support element 456 determines the position of the camera 310 in a lateral direction orthogonal to the optical axis OA.

[0125] In at least some alternative variations of this example, the respective support body is in the form of a peripheral cage, peripherally coupling with the camera in a load-bearing manner.

[0126] In at least some other alternative variations of this example, the respective support body comprises a base element connected to a forward support element and an aft support element. In such examples, the camera is inserted and engaged between the forward support element and the aft support element.

[0127] In at least this example, the flange element 480 is fixedly joined to the support body 450 in a fixed spatial relationship. While in at least this example, the flange element 480 is integrally formed with the base element 455, in at least some alternative variations of this example the respective flange element is fixedly joined to the respective base element.

[0128] As disclosed above, and referring again to Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B and also to Fig. 6 and Fig. 7, the flange element 480 comprises one or more flange zones 490 projecting outwardly in plan view with respect to the plan footprint FP, and the flange zones 490 are configured for enabling the camera support 400 to be affixed to an external structure via the flange zones 490. In at least some examples, the external structure is a respective alignment system 800 and optionally includes the system base platform 600.

[0129] In at least this example, the flange zones 490 are separately projecting forward or aft of the plan footprint FP.

[0130] In any case, the flange zones 490 enable the camera support 400 to be affixed to an external structure via fasteners at attachments points 470 that are spaced forward and aft with respect to the centers of gravity of each one of the camera 310, the camera support 400, and of the camera assembly 300. These centers of gravity are collectively designated as center of gravity CG in Fig. 6 and Fig. 7. In at least some examples, the external structure is a respective alignment system 800. For example, such fasteners can be in the form of first mounting screws 340.

[0131] 03054662\24-03 In at least some examples, including this example, the camera support 400 is mechanically stiffer than the camera 310.

[0132] In at least this example, the flange zones 490 comprise two forward flange zones 491, 492, each projecting forward with respect to the support body 450 and laterally disposed on opposite sides of the center of gravity CGby lateral spacings LP1 and LP2, respectively, and aft flange zones 496, 497 proj ecting aft with respect to the support body 450 and laterally disposed on opposite sides of the center of gravity CG by lateral spacings LP1 and LP2, respectively.

[0133] The forward flange zones 491, 492 each comprises a respective attachment point 470 that is spaced forward from the center of gravity CG at a first spacing SP1 in a direction parallel to the optical axis OA.

[0134] The aft flange zones 496, 497 each comprises a respective attachment point 470 that is spaced aft from the center of gravity CG at a second spacing SP2 in a direction parallel to the optical axis OA.

[0135] Each one of the first spacing SP1 and the second spacing SP2 is significantly greater than half the width CW of the camera body 350.

[0136] For example, the first spacing SP1 and the second spacing SP2 are each more than 60% of half the width CW, or the first spacing SP1 and the second spacing SP2 are each more than 70% of half the width CW, or the first spacing SP1 and the second spacing SP2 are each more than 80% of half the width CW, or the first spacing SP1 and the second spacing SP2 are each more than 90% of half the width CW, or the first spacing SP1 and the second spacing SP2 are each more than 100% of half the width CW, or the first spacing SP1 and the second spacing SP2 are each more than 120% of half the width CW, or the first spacing SP1 and the second spacing SP2 are each more than 140% of half the width CW, or the first spacing SP1 and the second spacing SP2 are each more than 160% of half the width CW, or the first spacing SP1 and the second spacing SP2 are each more than 180% of half the width CW, or the first spacing SP1 and the second spacing SP2 are each more than 200% of half the width CW, or the first spacing SP1 and the second spacing SP2 are each more than 220% of half the width CW, or the first spacing SP1 and the second spacing SP2 are each more than 250% of half the width CW.

[0137] 03054662\24-03 In at least this example, the first spacing SP1 and the second spacing SP2 are similar to one another in magnitude. For example the first spacing SP1 between zero and ±10% of the second spacing SP2, or between zero and ±30% of the second spacing SP2, or between zero and ±40% of the second spacing SP2, or between zero and ±50% of the second spacing SP2, or between zero and ±60% of the second spacing SP2, or between zero and ±70% of the second spacing SP2, or between zero and ±80% of the second spacing SP2, or between zero and ±90% of the second spacing SP2, or between zero and ± 100% of the second spacing SP2, or between zero and more than ±100% of the second spacing SP2.

[0138] Referring again also to Fig. 3 A and Fig. 3B, each flange zone 490, in particular each one of the forward flange zones 491, 492 and of the aft flange zones 496, 497 comprises at least one through hole 472 at the respective attachment points 470, each through-hole being sized for enabling a corresponding bolt 471 to thereby bolt the respective flange zone 490 to the external structure at the respective attachment point 470. In at least some examples, the external structure is a respective alignment system 800.

[0139] Without being bound to theory, and referring again to Fig. 4B and also to Fig. 7, inventor considers that the first spacing SP1 and the second spacing SP2 being significantly greater than half the camera width CW provides the camera support 400 with significantly improved resistance to at least bending moments BM about a lateral axis TA, and thus improved stability and mechanical integrity, as compared with having such attachment points 470 spaced within half the camera width CW (i.e., as compared with having such attachment points 470 located within the plan camera footprint FP or within part of the plan camera footprint corresponding to the camera body 450, or as compared with mounting the camera 310 to an external structure solely via the screw well 315 and a corresponding camera mounting screw 340). The lateral axis TA can be defined as being orthogonal to the optical axis OA and passing through the center of gravity CG.

[0140] In at least some implementations of this example, the camera system 100, and in particular each camera assembly 300 thereof, is configured to be installed at an external structure, and is not designed to be carried by hand or operated while being carried by hand. Thus the camera support 400 can be made from heavy materials that can provide very stable support to the camera 310.

[0141] 03054662\24-03 In at least some alternative variations of this example, the respective flange zones instead comprises one forward flange zone projecting forward with respect to the support body and laterally aligned with the center of gravity CG, and one aft flange zone projecting aft with respect to the respective support body and laterally aligned with the center of gravity CG

[0142] In yet other alternative variations of the above examples, the respective flange zones are provided in a contiguous and peripheral manner around the support body, for example having a peripheral edge that is equi-spaced from the respective periphery PR of plan footprint FP.

[0143] As disclosed above, in the camera system 100, the assemblies 300 are each mounted to the system base platform 600 via respective alignment systems 800. However, in at least some applications, the external structure is not limited to system base platform 600 and / or to the respective alignment systems 800, and in such examples each assembly 300 can be mounted via the attachment points 470 to any suitable structure, either by itself or together with other camera assemblies 300. For example such an external structure can include a part of a land vehicle, or of a sea vehicle, or of an air vehicle, or of a space vehicle; alternatively such an external structure can include a part of a static structure, such as for example a pole, a pylon, a building, a tree, and so on.

[0144] According to a second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the alignment systems 800 are configured for enabling the respective camera assemblies 300 to be mounted onto the system base platform 600 in a simple manner that automatically ensures that each optical axis OA is aligned in a predetermined manner with respect to the system base platform 600.

[0145] In at least this example the camera system 100 comprises three camera assemblies 300, and thus correspondingly also comprises three alignment systems 800. However, in at least some alternative variations of this example, in which the respective camera system comprises a particular number of, for example less than three or more than three, respective camera assemblies, the respective camera system also comprises a corresponding similar number of respective alignment systems.

[0146] 03054662\24-03 In particular, each alignment system 800 is configured for aligning the respective camera optical axis OA with respect to the system base platform 600 in a predetermined elevation angle and in a predetermined azimuth angle with respect to the system base platform 600. While in at least this example, the predetermined elevation angle for each camera assembly 300 is nominally zero, in at least some alternative variations of this example, at least one respective camera assembly has a non-zero predetermined elevation angle with respect to the system base platform 600. While in at least this example, the predetermined elevation angle for all the camera assemblies 300 are the same, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the respective camera assemblies can have different predetermined elevation angle, one from the other, with respect to the respective system base platform. In at least this example, the three camera assemblies 300 each have a different predetermined azimuth angle with respect to the system base platform 600, as best seen in Fig. 2, to thereby provide an enhanced field of view EFOV to the system 100

[0147] It is to be noted that, according to the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, the alignment systems 800 are configured for enabling any suitable camera assemblies to be mounted onto the system base platform 600 in a simple manner that automatically ensures that each respective optical axis OA is aligned in a predetermined manner with respect to the system base platform 600. Such camera assemblies are not limited to the type of camera assembly 300 according to the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter. For example, in such alternative examples the respective camera units or assemblies can include for example a camera that is bolted to a bottom plate, only via the camera mounting screw, that is provided as standard in many commercial examples of cameras; the bottom plate can have ridges for example to ensure the positioning of the camera with respect to the plate (when thus assembled) is in a predetermined manner to thereby ensure that the optical axis OA is in the desired spatial orientation and position with respect to the plate. Such an assembly of the camera and plate can then be mounted to any external structure, for example to an alignment system according to the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0148] According to the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, and referring to Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, each alignment system 800 comprises a support structure 850,

[0149] 03054662\24-03 a camera unit alignment arrangement (also interchangeably referred to herein as a camera assembly alignment arrangement) 830, and a platform mounting arrangement 870.

[0150] According to the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, each alignment system 800 is configured for being mounted to the system base platform 600 in a predetermined manner via a predetermined alignment arrangement in the form of platform mounting arrangement 870, and for enabling the respective camera assembly 300 to be mounted to the respective alignment system 800 in an adjustable manner via the camera assembly alignment system 830.

[0151] As will become clearer herein, the support structure 850 comprises a first side 852 and second side 854. The camera assembly alignment system 830 is associated with the first side 852, and the platform mounting arrangement 870 is associated with the second side 854.

[0152] In at least this example, the support structure 850 is in the form of a plate 851 comprising a first plate surface 853 and a second plate surface 855. The first plate surface 853 defines the first side 852 of the support structure 850, and the second plate surface 855 defines the second side 854 of the support structure 850.

[0153] The first plate surface 853 and the second plate surface 855 are separated from one another by a plate thickness PT.

[0154] In at least this example, the first plate surface 853 comprises a first abutment surface portion 853A that is complementary to a bottom surface portion of the camera assembly 300, in particular to bottom surface portion 458 of the camera support 400. When assembled, the camera assembly 300 is in abutting and load-bearing contact with the alignment system 800, via the abutment between first abutment surface portion 853A and the bottom surface portion 458 of the camera support 400.

[0155] Also in at least this example, and referring also to Fig. 10, the second plate surface 855 comprises a second abutment surface portion 855A that is complementary to a corresponding system base platform surface portion 610 of the system base platform 600. When assembled, each alignment system 800 is in abutting and load-bearing contact with the system base platform 600, via the abutment between the respective second abutment surface portions 855A and the respective system base platform surface portion 610 of the system base platform 600.

[0156] 03054662\24-03 In at least this example, the plate thickness PT is uniform, at least between the first abutment surface portion 853A and the second abutment surface portions 855A. Thus, the first abutment surface portion 853A and said second abutment surface portion 855A are nominally parallel to one another.

[0157] However, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the plate thickness PT is non-uniform, and the first abutment surface portion 853A and said second abutment surface portion 855A are non-parallel to one another. For example, the first abutment surface portion 853A and said second abutment surface portion 855A can be at a non-zero inclination angle with respect to one another, enabling the elevation angle of the optical axis OA to be adjusted with respect to the second abutment surface portion 855A.

[0158] The camera assembly alignment system 830 is associated with the first side 852, and is configured for enabling adjustably mounting the camera assembly 300, in particular the camera support 400, with respect to the support structure 850.

[0159] By "adjustably mounting" is meant that the precise orientation between the camera assembly 300 and the support structure 850, in particular the precise orientation between the camera support 400 and the support structure 850, can be adjusted within a range of angular orientations. In other words, the camera assembly 300 (and thus and the camera support 400) can be immovably affixed to the support structure 850 in a variety of different relative orientations (within the aforesaid range of orientations), and thus the precise angular orientation between and the support structure 850 and the camera assembly 300 (and thus and the camera support 400) can be adjusted when affixing the two together, as will become clearer herein.

[0160] In at least this example, the camera assembly alignment system 830 is configured for fixing the relative position of the camera assembly 300 (via the camera support 400) with respect to the support structure 850 in three degrees of freedom in translation, while selectively allowing relative pivoting between the camera assembly 300 (via the camera support 400) and the support structure 850 about a pivot axis PA to thereby enable the camera support 400, and thus the camera assembly 300, to be mounted to the support structure 850 in any one of a plurality of alternative and adjustable relative pivot positions about the pivot axis PA. As will become clearer herein, once the relative orientation 03054662\24-03 between the camera assembly 300 (via the camera support 400) and the support structure 850 about the pivot axis PA is adjusted to the desired orientation, the between the camera assembly 300 (via the camera support 400) and the support structure 850 are fixedly secured top one another in this position. In the desired orientation, the optical axis OA is in the desired spatial relationship with respect to the alignment system 800.

[0161] In at least this example, the camera assembly alignment system 830 comprises a first pin (also interchangeably referred to herein as a first positioning pin) and orifice arrangement 820. In at least this example, the first pin and orifice arrangement 820 includes a first pin 822 provided at a fixed location in the first side 852, and a complementary first orifice 824 provided at a fixed location in the camera assembly 300. The first pin 822 is received in the first orifice 824 in a direction coaxial with the pivot axis PA, when the camera assembly 300 is mounted to the camera assembly alignment system 830, i.e., when the camera assembly 300 (via the camera support 400) is engaged with the support structure 850. However, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the respective first pin is provided at a fixed location in the respective camera assembly, and the respective complementary first orifice provided at a fixed location in the first side; in yet some other alternative variations of this example, the respective first pin and orifice arrangement comprises a respective first orifice provided in a fixed location in the respective camera assembly, and a corresponding respective first orifice provided in a fixed location in the first side, and further comprises a free pin that is insertable in the two coaligned first orifices.

[0162] It is to be noted that the first pin 822 is received in the first orifice 824 in a tight manner, such as to prevent relative sideways translational movement between the first pin 822 and the first orifice 824, while allowing relative rotational movement between the first pin 822 and the first orifice 824 about the pivot axis PA.

[0163] In at least this example, the first pin 822 is generally cylindrical.

[0164] The camera assembly alignment system 830 also comprises a plurality of fasteners for securing the camera assembly 300 with respect to the support structure 850. In at least this example, the fasteners include a plurality of first mounting screws 835 operative for securing the camera assembly 300 with respect to the support structure 850. As will become clearer herein, the first mounting screws 835 engage with the support structure 03054662\24-03 850 via the camera support 400 in at least two configurations or positions: a pre-engaged configuration and an engaged configuration.

[0165] In the pre-engaged configuration, the first mounting screws 835 are partially engaged with the support structure 850 at the mounting points 470, allowing said relative pivoting between the camera assembly 300 and the support structure 850 about the pivot axis PA, while preventing the camera assembly 300 and the support structure 850 being spaced from one another in a direction parallel to the pivot axis PA. Furthermore, in the pre-engaged configuration the first pin 822 is received in the first orifice 824, thereby preventing any lateral displacement between the camera assembly 300 and the support structure 850 in directions orthogonal to the pivot axis PA.

[0166] In the engaged configuration the first mounting screws 835 are fully engaged with the support structure 850, thereby securing the camera assembly 300 and the support structure 850 with respect to one another, and preventing all relative movement between the camera assembly 300 and the support structure 850.

[0167] The camera assembly 300, in particular the camera support 400, comprises a plurality of through-slots 410. In at least this example, the number of through-slots 410 corresponds to, and matches, the number of first mounting screws 835. In at least this example, the alignment system 800 comprises four first mounting screws 835 and four through-slots 410. However, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the respective alignment system can have more than four, or less than four, respective first mounting screws, and more than four, or less than four, respective through slots.

[0168] For example, each first mounting screw 835 comprises a shank 836 and a head 837. The shank 836 is externally threaded and is screwable with respect to a complementarily internally threaded bore 812 provided in the support structure 850. The shank 836 also has an external diameter slightly smaller than the width of the respective through-slot 410, thereby allowing for relative lateral movement between the shank and the through-slots 410 (in the pre-engaged configuration) along the arched length of the through slots 410. The head 837 has a larger diameter or width than the width of the respective through-slot 410, and in the engaged configuration the head 837 presses against the camera support 400 to fixedly secure the camera support 400 to the support structure 850.

[0169] 03054662\24-03 Referring also to Fig. 11, each through slot 410 is curved, having a respective center of curvature that is coaxial with the pivot axis PA. Each first mounting screw 835 has a respective shank 836 that passes through the respective through-slot 410. In the preengaged configuration, with the first pin 822 is received in the first orifice 824, and the first mounting screw 835 being partially screwed into the respective bores 812, it is possible to selectively pivot the camera support 400 with respect to the support structure 850 about the pivot axis PA. Such pivoting is possible between two angular limits, defined by the relative angular disposition of the ends 410A, 410B of each respective slot (i.e., the angle subtended at the pivot axis PA by the arc corresponding to the respective through-slots 410).

[0170] In at least this example, the camera assembly alignment system 830 further comprises a pair of adjustment screw assemblies 860, configured for setting a relative pivot (angular) orientation between the camera assembly 300 and the support structure 850 about the pivot axis PA. The adjustment screw assemblies 860 can facilitate angularly orienting the camera assembly 300 with respect to the camera support 400 about the pivot axis PA in the pre-engaged configuration, within the respective two angular limits. However, in at least some alternative variations of this example, the respective camera assembly alignment system can have only a single adjustment screw assembly, or more than two adjustment screw assemblies, while in yet other alternative variations of this example, the respective camera assembly alignment system can omit all of the one or more adjustment screw assemblies.

[0171] In at least this example, each adjustment screw assembly 860 comprises a respective screw 862 and a respective screw reaction surface 864. Each screw reaction surface 864 is provided in the camera support 400 (and thus in the camera assembly 300). The screw 862 is rotatably mounted to the support structure 850 in a manner enabling the screw 862 to be reversibly and selectively advanced along a screw axis SA towards and push against the respective screw reaction surface 864, to thereby pivot the camera assembly 300 (via the camera support 400) with respect to the support structure 850 about the pivot axis PA.

[0172] As can be seen In Fig. 11, each screw axis SA is orthogonal to a respective radial line RL through the pivot axis PA. Thus, as the screws 862 are screwed towards or away

[0173] 03054662\24-03 from the respective screw reaction surface 864, the camera assembly 300 (via the camera support 400) is corresponding pivoted about the pivot axis PA.

[0174] As can be readily understood with reference to Fig. 11, as the screw 862 on the right hand side of this figure is screwed to thereby push the respective screw reaction surface 864, the camera assembly 300 (via the camera support 400) is pivoted in a clockwise direction with respect to the support structure 850. On the other hand, as the screw 862 on the left hand side of this figure is screwed to thereby push the respective screw reaction surface 864, the camera assembly 300 (via the camera support 400) is pivoted in a counterclockwise direction with respect to the support structure 850.

[0175] In at least some alternative variations of this example, the respective adjustment screw assembly comprises a respective screw and a respective screw reaction surface. The screw reaction surface is provided in the camera support (and thus in the camera assembly). The screw is rotatably mounted to the support structure in a manner enabling the screw to be reversibly and selectively advanced along a screw axis with respect to the camera support. However, one end of the screw is rotatably mounted to the screw reaction surface. In this manner the screw can be turned in one direction to push against the respective screw reaction surface, to thereby pivot the camera assembly (via the camera support) with respect to the support structure about the pivot axis in one pivoting direction. Conversely, the screw can be turned in the other direction to pull the respective screw reaction surface, to thereby pivot the camera assembly (via the camera support) with respect to the support structure about the pivot axis in the opposite pivoting direction.

[0176] In at least some other alternative variations of the above examples, the respective first mounting screws are screwed into bores provided in the respective camera support, via slots provided in the respective support structure.

[0177] The platform mounting arrangement 870 is configured for mounting the support structure 850 with respect to the system base platform 600 in a predetermined fixed spatial position with respect to the system base platform 600.

[0178] In at least this example, and referring to Fig. 12 and Fig. 13, the platform mounting arrangement 870 comprises at least two second pin and orifice arrangements 880. Each second pin and orifice arrangement 880 comprises a second pin (also interchangeably

[0179] 03054662\24-03 referred to herein as a second positioning pin) 882 provided in a fixed location in the second side 854, and a complementary second orifice 884 provided in a fixed location in the system base platform 600.

[0180] As best seen in Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, the second pins 882 of the respective two second pin and orifice arrangements 880 are spaced from one another, and correspondingly, the second orifices 884 of the respective two second pin and orifice arrangements 880 are spaced from one another over the upper surface 610 of the system base platform 600.

[0181] The second pins 882 of the respective second pin and orifice arrangements 880 are receivable in the respective second orifices 884 along a receivable insertion direction ID. The support structure 850 is prevented from translating or rotating with respect to the system base platform 600 via the second pin and orifice arrangements 800 with respect to planes orthogonal to the insertion directions ID, when the second pins 882 of the respective second pin and orifice arrangements 880 are received in the respective second orifices 884.

[0182] It is to be noted that each second pin 882 is received in the respective second orifice 884 in a tight manner, for example a friction fit, such as to prevent relative sideways movement between the second pin 882 and the second orifice 884. The spacing between the second pin and orifice arrangements 880 also prevents any rotational movement between the support structure 850 and the system base platform 600.

[0183] In at least some alternative variations of this example, the respective second pin and orifice arrangements each comprises a respective second pin provided in a fixed location in the respective system base platform, and a complementary respective second orifice provided in a fixed location in the second side. Additionally or alternatively, the second pins can have a rounded or elongated cross section, and / or the second pins can have a uniform cross-section or can have a decreasing cross-section in the respective insertion direction. Additionally or alternatively, the respective platform mounting arrangement comprises a plurality of respective second pin and orifice arrangements, for example three or more respective second pin and orifice arrangements. In yet other alternative variations of this example, the respective second pin and orifice arrangements each comprises a respective second orifice provided in a fixed location in the respective system base platform, and another corresponding respective second orifice provided in a fixed location in the second side, and further comprises a free pin that is insertable in the two coaligned second orifices. 03054662\24-03 In at least this example, the platform mounting arrangement 870 comprises a plurality of second mounting screws 890 configured for securing the support structure 850 with respect to the system base platform 600.

[0184] The support structure 850 comprises a plurality of through holes 896 corresponding to the plurality of second mounting screws 890. Each respective second mounting screw 890 passes through the respective through hole 896 and screws securely into an internally threaded bore 895 provided in the system base platform 600.

[0185] Referring also to Fig. 14, each second mounting screw 890 has an engaged configuration in which relative movement between the support structure 850 and the system base platform 600 is prevented, thereby securely fixing the spatial relationship between the support structure 850 and the system base platform 600, and thus between the camera assembly 300 (via the support structure 850) and the system base platform 600.

[0186] Thus, according to the first aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, each camera 310 is securely affixed with respect to the respective camera support 400 to provide the respective camera assembly 300, in which the respective optical axis OA (and thus line of sight LOS) is in a fixed spatial relationship with respect to the respective camera support 400

[0187] According to the second aspect of the presently disclosed subject matter, each camera assembly 300 is mounted to the system base platform 600 via the respective alignment system 800, to thereby align the respective optical axis OA (and thus line of sight LOS) is in a fixed spatial relationship with respect to the system base platform 600 in azimuth and elevation.

[0188] To assemble the camera system 100, each camera support 400 (assembled with the respective camera 310 to provide the respective camera assembly 300) is first located on the first side 852 of the respective support structure 850, by receiving the first pin 822 in the first orifice 824, and then abutting the first abutment surface portion 853A of the support structure 850 and the bottom surface portion 458 of the camera support 400 in load-bearing contact with one another.

[0189] The first mounting screws 835 are then coupled to the respective internally threaded bores 812 provided in the support structure 850 via the respective through-slots 03054662\24-03 410 to provide the pre-engaged configuration. The respective screws 862 are screwed towards or away from the respective screw reaction surfaces 864, to thereby pivot the camera assembly 300 (via the camera support 400) about the pivot axis PA, until the desired alignment of the respective optical axis OA (and thus line of sight LOS) with respect to the alignment system 800, in particular the support structure 850, is achieved.

[0190] For example, such an alignment can be performed on an optical table, by securing the support structure 850 on the table in a known spatial relationship with respect thereto, and then determining the relative azimuth (and optionally elevation) of the optical axis OA with respect to the support structure 850, and comparing the relative azimuth with the desired relative azimuth. If the relative azimuth is offset with respect to the desired relative azimuth, one or the other of the respective screws 862 can be further screwed towards the respective screw reaction surfaces 864, to thereby adjust the relative azimuth to the desired relative azimuth. In general, the relative elevation of the optical axis OA with respect to the support structure 850 is preset according to the geometry of the camera support 400 and of the support structure 850.

[0191] Once the camera assembly 300 (via the camera support 400) is at the desired orientation with respect to the support structure 850 about the pivot axis PA to provide the desired relative azimuth, the first mounting screws 835 are screwed fully into the respective internally threaded bores 812 to provide the engaged configuration, thereby securely affixing the camera assembly 300 to the support structure 850 in a fixed spatial relationship therewith.

[0192] Then, each assembly of respective camera assembly 300 and respective support structure 850 is located on the upper surface 610 of the system base platform 600 by receiving the respective pair of second pins 882 in the respective second orifices 884, thereby preventing any movement (including rotation) between the respective support structures 850 and the system base platform 600 along planes orthogonal to the insertion directions ID.

[0193] The respective second mounting screws 890 are then passed through the respective through holes 896 of the respective support structure 850 and are screwed securely into the respective internally threaded bores 895 provided in the system base platform 600, to provide the engaged configuration of the respective second mounting screws 890. 03054662\24-03 In this manner, the spatial relationship between the respective optical axis OA and the system base platform 600 is fixed, since the spatial relationship between the respective support structure 850 and the system base platform 600 is fixed, and the spatial relationship between the respective optical axis OA and the respective support structure 850 has also been fixed.

[0194] It is to be noted that the camera system 100 enables each assembly of respective camera assembly 300 and respective support structure 850 to be affixed to the system base platform 600 in a simple manner that does not require additional optical alignment, while at the same time providing the desired optical alignment between each optical axis OA and the system base platform 600.

[0195] A feature of such a system is that, in the case of malfunction of one of the cameras 310 for example, it is not necessary to align a replacement camera directly with the system base platform 600. Rather, it is possible to have already prepared backup camera assemblies 300 that have already been adjustably fixed in an optical aligned manner with the respective support structure 850, and are thus ready-for-mounting with respect to the system base platform 600 with the respective optical axis OA in the desired alignment.

[0196] Finally, it should be noted that the word “comprising” as used throughout the appended claims is to be interpreted to mean “including but not limited to”.

[0197] While there has been shown and disclosed examples in accordance with the presently disclosed subject matter, it will be appreciated that many changes may be made therein without departing from the scope of the presently disclosed subject matter as set out in the claims.

[0198] 03054662\24-03

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. An alignment system for aligning at least one camera unit with respect to a system base platform, the alignment system comprising a support structure, a camera unit alignment arrangement, and a platform mounting arrangement, wherein: the support structure comprises a first side and second side, the camera unit alignment system being associated with the first side, and the platform mounting arrangement being associated with the second side; the camera unit alignment system being configured for enabling adjustably mounting the camera unit with respect to the support structure; the platform mounting arrangement being configured for mounting the support structure with respect to the system base platform in a predetermined fixed spatial position with respect to the system base platform.

2. The alignment system according to claim 1 , wherein the camera unit defines a camera optical axis, and wherein the alignment system is configured for aligning the camera optical axis with respect to the system base platform in a predetermined elevation angle and a predetermined azimuth angle with respect to the system base platform.

3. The alignment system according to claim 2, wherein said predetermined elevation angle is nominally zero.

4. The alignment system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said support structure is in the form of a plate comprising a first plate surface and a second plate surface, separated from one another by a plate thickness, wherein the first plate surface defines said first side and the plate second surface defines said second side.

5. The alignment system according to claim 4, wherein said first plate surface comprises a first abutment surface portion complementary to a camera unit surface portion.

6. The alignment system according to any one of claims 4 to 5, wherein said second plate surface comprises a second abutment surface portion complementary to a system base platform surface portion.03054662\24-037. The alignment system according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein said thickness is uniform.

8. The alignment system according to any one of claims 6 to 7, wherein said first abutment surface portion and said second abutment surface portion are nominally parallel to one another.

9. The alignment system according to any one of claims 6 to 7, wherein said first abutment surface portion and said second abutment surface portion are at a non-zero inclination angle with respect to one another.

10. The alignment system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the camera unit alignment system is configured for fixing the relative position of the camera unit with respect to the support structure with respect to three degrees of freedom in translation, and to allow relative pivoting between the camera unit and the support structure about a pivot axis to thereby enable the camera unit to be mounted to the support structure in a plurality of alternative and adjustable relative pivot positions about the pivot axis.

11. The alignment system according to claim 10, wherein the camera unit alignment system comprises a first pin and orifice arrangement including a first pin provided at a fixed location in one of the first side and the camera unit, and a complementary first orifice provided at a fixed location in the other one of the first side and the camera unit, wherein the first pin is received in the first orifice in a direction coaxial with the pivot axis when the camera unit is mounted to the alignment system.

12. The alignment system according to claim 11, wherein the first pin is provided at a respective said fixed location in the first side, and wherein the respective said complementary first orifice provided at said fixed location in the camera unit.

13. The alignment system according to claim 11, wherein the first pin is provided at a respective said fixed location in the camera unit, and wherein the respective said complementary first orifice provided at said fixed location in the first side.03054662\24-0314. The alignment system according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the camera unit alignment system comprises a plurality of first mounting screws configured for securing the camera unit with respect to the support structure.

15. The alignment system according to claim 14, wherein the camera unit comprises a plurality of through slots corresponding to the plurality of said first mounting screws, wherein each said through slot is curved having a center of curvature coaxial with the pivot axis, wherein each said first mounting screw passes through the respective said through slot, each said first mounting screw having a pre-engaged configuration allowing said relative pivoting between the camera unit and the support structure about the pivot axis, and an engaged configuration in which the camera unit and the support structure are secured with respect to one another and relative movement between the camera unit and the support structure is prevented.

16. The alignment system according to any one of claims 10 to 15, comprising at least one adjustment screw assembly configured for setting a relative pivot orientation between the camera unit and the support structure about the pivot axis.

17. The alignment system according to claim 16, wherein each said adjustment screw assembly comprises a respective screw and a respective screw reaction surface, wherein the screw is rotatably mounted to the support structure in a manner enabling the screw to be reversibly and selectively advanced along a screw axis towards and push against the respective screw reaction surface to thereby pivot the camera unit with respect to the support structure about the pivot axis, and wherein each said screw reaction surface is provided in the camera unit.

18. The alignment system according to claim 17, wherein each said screw axis is orthogonal to a respective radial line through the pivot axis.

19. The alignment system according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the platform mounting arrangement comprises at least two second pin and orifice arrangements, each said second pin and orifice arrangement including at least one second pin03054662\24-03provided in a fixed location in one of the second side and the system base platform, and a complementary second orifice provided in a fixed location in the other one of the second side and the system base platform, the second pins of the respective at least two said second pin and orifice arrangements being spaced from one another, the second pins of the respective at least two said second pin and orifice arrangements being receivable in the respective second orifices along a receivable insertion direction, wherein the support structure is prevented from translating or rotating with respect to the system base platform via the second pin and orifice arrangements with respect to planes orthogonal to the insertion direction when the second pins of the respective at least two said second pin and orifice arrangements are received in the respective second orifices.

20. The alignment system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the platform mounting arrangement comprises a plurality of second mounting screws configured for securing the support structure with respect to the system base platform.

21. The alignment system according to claim 20, wherein the support structure comprises a plurality of through holes corresponding to the plurality of said second mounting screws, wherein each said second mounting screw passes through the respective said through hole, each said second mounting screw having an engaged configuration in which relative movement between the support structure and the system base platform is prevented.

22. A camera system comprising a plurality of camera units, a plurality of alignment systems, and a system base platform, wherein each said camera unit is mounted to the system base platform via a respective said alignment system, and wherein each alignment system is as defined in any one of claims 1 to 21.

23. The camera system according to claim 22, wherein each said camera unit comprises a camera and a camera support assembled with respect to one another, the camera having an optical axis, a plan footprint and a center of gravity, wherein the camera is fixedly attached to the camera support wherein the camera optical axis is in said fixed and predetermined spatial orientation with respect to the camera support.03054662\24-0324. The camera system according to claim 23, the camera support comprising a support body and a flange element, wherein: the support body is configured for enabling the camera to be fixedly attached to the camera support in a manner to thereby provide a fixed and predetermined spatial orientation between the camera optical axis and the camera support, the flange element comprising flange zones projecting outwardly with respect to the plan footprint, the flange zones being configured for enabling the camera support to be affixed to the respective alignment system via the flange zones.

24. The camera system according to claim 23, wherein the support body is so dimensioned as be in abutting load-bearing contact with the camera when the support body is fixedly attached to the camera.

25. The camera system according to any one of claim 23 and claim 24, wherein the support body comprises a base element and at least one lateral support element, wherein the base element is configured for being affixed to an underside of the camera, and wherein the lateral support element is configured for being affixed to a lateral side of the camera.

26. The camera system according to any one of claim 23 and claim 24, wherein the support body comprises a base element, a first lateral support element, and a second lateral support element, wherein the base element is configured for being affixed to an underside of the camera, wherein the first lateral support element is configured for being affixed to one lateral side of the camera, and wherein the second lateral support element is configured for being affixed to another lateral side of the camera.

27. The camera system according to claim 26, wherein the first lateral support element and the second lateral support element are laterally spaced from one another by a lateral spacing corresponding to a lateral dimension of the camera.

28. The camera system according to any one of claims 26 to 27, wherein each one of the first lateral support element and the second lateral support element comprises a 03054662\24-03respective clamping arrangement for clamping with a respective lateral strap flange of the camera.

29. The camera system according to any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein the base element comprises a camera mounting screw for screwing the base element with respect to a complementary screw well provided in the underside of the camera.

30. The camera system according to any one of claims 23 to 29, comprising a positioning pin projecting from an underside of the camera support, the positioning pin being so positioned on the underside of the camera support as to be enable the camera support to be positioned on the respective alignment system at a predetermined position with respect thereto.

31. The camera system according to any one of claims 23 to 29, comprising a positioning pin projecting from an underside of the camera support, the positioning pin being so positioned on the underside of the camera support as to be enable the camera support to be positioned on the respective alignment system at a predetermined position with respect thereto, while allowing relative rotational movement between the camera support and the respective alignment system about the positioning pin.

32. The camera system according to any one of claims 23 to 31, wherein the support body comprises a forward ridge dimensioned for abutting a forward face of the camera such as to constrain the camera in said fixed and predetermined spatial orientation between the camera optical axis and the camera support along a first direction parallel to the camera optical axis.

33. The camera system according to any one of claims 23 to 32, comprising at least one first said flange zone projecting forward with respect to the support body, and at least one second said flange zone projecting aft with respect to the support body.

34. The camera system according to claim 33, wherein each said forward flange comprises a respective attachment point that is spaced forward from the center of gravity at a first spacing in a direction parallel to the optical axis.03054662\24-0335. The camera system according to any one of claims 33 to 34, wherein each said aft flange zone comprises a respective attachment point that is spaced aft from the center of gravity at a second spacing in a direction parallel to the optical axis.

36. The camera system according to claim 35, wherein each one of the first spacing and the second spacing is significantly greater than half of a camera body width of a camera body of the camera.

37. The camera system according to any one of claims 35 to 36, wherein the first spacing is any one of: more than 60% of half the camera body width, or more than 70% of half the camera body width, or more than 80% of half the camera body width, or more than 90% of half the camera body width, or more than 100% of half the camera body width, or more than 120% of half the camera body width, or more than 140% of half the camera body width, or more than 160% of half the camera body width, or more than 180% of half the camera body width, or more than 200% of half the camera body width, or more than 220% of half the camera body width, or more than 250% of half the camera body width.

38. The camera system according to any one of claims 35 to 37, wherein the second spacing is any one of: more than 60% of half the camera body width, or more than 70% of half the camera body width, or more than 80% of half the camera body width, or more than 90% of half the camera body width, or more than 100% of half the camera body width, or more than 120% of half the camera body width, or more than 140% of half the camera body width, or more than 160% of half the camera body width, or more than 180% of half the camera body width, or more than 200% of half the camera body width, or more than 220% of half the camera body width, or more than 250% of half the camera body width.

39. The camera system according to any one of claims 35 to 38, wherein the first spacing and the second spacing are similar to one another in magnitude.

40. The camera system according to any one of claims 35 to 39, wherein the first spacing is any one of: between zero and ±10% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±30% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±40% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±50% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±60% of the second03054662\24-03spacing, or between zero and ±70% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±80% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±90% of the second spacing, or between zero and ±100% of the second spacing, or between zero and more than ±100% of the second spacing.

41. The camera system according to any one of claims 34 to 40, wherein each said attachment point comprises at least one through hole sized for enabling a corresponding bolt to thereby bolt the respective flange zone to the respective alignment system.

42. The camera system according to any one of claims 23 to 41, further comprising the respective alignment system affixed to the camera support.03054662\24-03

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