Motorized 360 degree photography apparatus

Abstract

The photography and videography apparatus disclosed in the present invention comprises a motorized platform that is designed to transport a camera in a predetermined path, such as circular, oval or oblong track around an object. This kind of movement allows the camera to capture a comprehensive 360-degree view of the object. The captured images are then transferred to an internal or external computer application where these images are processed to construct a comprehensive presentation of either a full 360-degree view, videographic segment or individual photographic stills in combination with video of the object. This apparatus can be used in automotive photography, vehicle inspections, and virtual showrooms or to capture images of individuals and inanimate objects in a group setting.

Description

[0001] IN THE UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE TITLE

[0002] Motorized 360 Degree Photography Apparatus INVENTOR

[0003] Brad King

[0004] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 739,391, filed on December 27, 2024 FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0005] Non-ApplicableSPECIFICATION

[0006] REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENTS

[0007] The present application claims priority to the previously filed provisional application No.

[0008] 63 / 739,391 filed on December 27, 2024.

[0009] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention, generally, relates to a 360-degree photography apparatus comprising an automated, reproducible, and user-friendly motorized platform for photographic equipment. Specifically, the platform is designed as a “trolley"’ to transport one camera to a plurality of cameras around an object, including but not limited to a vehicle along a predetermined path, such as a circular or oblong trajectory, in order to capture photographic or videographic imagery in a constant, precise and comprehensive 360-degree view of the vehicle.

[0011] BACKGROUND

[0012] There remains an increasing demand to capture 360-degree views of an object either for an immersive visual experience, for product examination and review or for inspection of an object. However, existing equipment for automotive photography and videography, such as conventional 360-degree cameras, Compact and all-in-one cameras, action cameras (e.g., GoPro and Insta360 technologies) with or without gimbals and stabilization, digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras, mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras (MILC), or even customary smart phone (Apple® and Android*') technology require the user to be a medium grade to highly skilled expert, in handling camera equipment - all requiring expertise, lacking automation and requiring manual movement of a recording device (i.e., camera) around an object. This makes the method of capturing imaging labor intensive and necessitating certain particularized skills and dexterity in capturing appropriateimages and videos. In addition to this, the equipment required for hi-definition and / or high quality are often cost prohibitive where images taken by lower quality equipment regularly lack the ability to capture high quality images and videos.

[0013] What is more, vehicle 360-degree photography and videography has historically taken the opposite approach wherein a multitude of stationary cameras have been utilized in a closed space (i.e., a “photobooth”) wherein cameras are stationed in a fixed positioned and the vehicle is placed within and encircled by cameras that then capture vehicle images sequentially. This method is both immobile and restrictive as to vehicle size where each enclosure is relegated to a specific vehicle heights, lengths and overall spatial dimension are limited in size and scope. And, where attempts have been made to allow for vehicle rotation within the confined space, this does not allow for camera movement, nor alleviate the relegation of the image capturing space to only those vehicles that meet the strict dimensional requirements of a fixed space.

[0014] In opposite, the present invention allows for an adjustable means of camera height and angulation (and addition of two to a plurality of cameras) which can be modified and adjusted to conform to the size and parameters of each vehicle while allowing for portability of an image capture platform wherein the camera itself is portable and, instead of transport of the vehicle to a “photobooth”, image capture is transported and transportable to a vehicle wherein even unconventional shaped and sized vehicles (e.g., large SUVs, large work trucks, crawler-transporters, excavators, semi tankers, semi-trucks, construction equipment, dump trucks, boats, buses, train cars and the like) may be photographed in situ and, if required, en masse.

[0015] Hence, there is a need for a simple, automated, transportable and mobile solution to the infirmities of manual movement and / or stationary, restrictive positioning of camera equipmentaround an object (e g., vehicle) to set conditions and perimeters of a “photobooth” to capture still shots and 360-degree views of vehicles where the present invention addresses this need in the art.

[0016] While the inventor has set forth the best mode or modes contemplated in carrying out the present invention known to the inventor, such as to enable a person skilled in the art to make and practice the present invention, the preferred embodiments are, however, not intended to be limiting, but are, on the contrary, included in a non-limiting sense apt to amendments, alterations, alternatives and modifications, based primarily on the apparatus for capturing 360-degree image of object, in light of specification and appended claims forming the current disclosure.

[0017] BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0018] An apparatus is currently provided that is used for photography and videography comprising a motorized platform to hold and propel one or more cameras at consistent heights, speeds and angles. The present motorized platform is designed to traverse the area around a subject object in a predetermined and / or operator determinable path, such as circular or oblong path around an object to be photographed, enabling a camera to capture images and videos of the object at specific intervals as the platform is in motion. At least one of the power wheels of the platform has a single pivot axle and incorporates spring compression to allow constant contact with level or uneven ground to ensure continuous movement during operation. The platform operates autonomously (either with or without remote direction) and thus reduces the manual effort required to otherwise capture 360-degree images of the object. Additionally, the automation ensures that the image quality and positioning are consistent and enhances the accuracy of the final presentation of the images, both still and moving. Furthermore, since the present device and platform can be operated remotely, having incorporated a stop switch which can be used to halt the platform’s movement at any time, the device and platform offer operational flexibility and convenience to theuser of the apparatus Additionally, the present device also exhibits a battery source, which may be rechargeable, to address the supply of power to the operational elements (wheel) of the invention and further to support powering of camera functions currently presented

[0019] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention is a method, apparatus and system for photography, still and videographic, comprising a motorized platform to securely hold one or more cameras, wherein the platform travels along a predetermined and / or determinable, single-railed, dual-railed, rail-less or both railed and rail-less path, around an object to be photographed, said camera(s) captures still, sequential and moving images of the object at specified intervals and / or continuously as the platform traverses along the predetermined or operator determinable path.

[0020] In another embodiment of the preferred apparatus, the platform traverses in a circular, ovular or oblong path to capture 360-degree photographic, videographic (or a combination of the two) view' of the object.

[0021] In yet another embodiment of the preferred apparatus, the present device and platform further comprises at least one power wheel with a single pivot axle and single compression to allow constant contact with level or uneven ground; a dual battery system with an A / B switch to greatly extend use time; a digital voltage meter to display battery strength; a charger with a single port plugin; an emergency stop switch; a variable speed dial; a forward / off / reverse switch; a switch to adjust height of an actuator for one or more camera holders; a handle that can be extended to allow' the platform to be pulled for transport; one to a plurality of usb charging ports; or a combination thereof.In still yet another embodiment of the preferred device and platform, the device / platform is operated using an on / off switch located on the platform, remote mechanism, or both for starting and starting the operable function of the present invention.

[0022] In another embodiment of the preferred device and platform, the remote mechanism may comprise a wireless, battery-facilitated or battery-less control. In a battery-less version, the remote control may create energy generated from friction to send the signal to receiver, removing the need for a power source. The preferred apparatus may also be operated using a standard battery powered remote control at a lower cost.

[0023] In yet another embodiment of the preferred apparatus, the emergency stop switch may be used to halt the platform’s movement to allow for intervention or adjustment.

[0024] In still yet another embodiment of the preferred apparatus, the platform may be configured to operate on a mono rail system, a dual rail system, a non-rail system, or a combination thereof.

[0025] In another embodiment of the preferred apparatus, the rail system may comprise a plurality of pieces (i.e., tracks) that may be connected with each other securely to configure the shape of a path for the device and platform to traverse.

[0026] In yet another embodiment of the preferred invention, the platform may be configured to operate on a non-rail system comprising one to a plurality of wheels that are adjusted to varied diameter (and heights) for operation.

[0027] In still yet another embodiment of the preferred invention, the captured images may be transferred to an integrated application or external application for processing, said application compiles the images and presents it in a coherent 360-degree view or as individual photographicstill photographs or as a combination of a 360-degree view or views and individual photographic views, angles and / or captured depictions.

[0028] In yet another embodiment of the preferred apparatus, the apparatus may be used in automotive photography, vehicle inspections, or virtual showrooms, or to capture group pictures of individuals or inanimate objects at events or within group-attended venues.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention is a method for capturing an image or images of an object, comprising: activating a motorized platform that securely holds one camera or a plurality of cameras; capturing sequential images of said object at specified intervals using said camera or cameras as said platform traverses along a predetermined or determinable path around the object to be photographed; and transferring said images to an integrated application or an external application for processing, wherein said application compiles the images and presents it in a coherent 360-degree view, as individual photographic stills, a sequential montage of photographs creating a video sequence, or a combination thereof at the direction and desire of an operator.

[0030] In another embodiment of the preferred method, the platform may traverse in circular, oval or oblong path to capture 360-degree view of the object.

[0031] In yet another embodiment of the preferred method, the platform further may comprise at least one power wheel with a single pivot axle and a single compression to allow constant contact with both level and uneven ground; a dual battery system with an A / B switch to greatly extend use time, a digital voltage meter to display battery strength; a charger with a single or multi-port plugin; an emergency stop switch; a variable speed dial; a forward / off / reverse switch; a switch to adjustheight of an actuator for a camera holder; a handle that can be extended to allow the platform to be pulled fortransport; a plurality of usb charging ports; or a combination thereof.

[0032] In still yet another embodiment of the preferred method, the platform may be operated using an on / off switch located on the platform, via remote mechanism, or both

[0033] In another embodiment of the preferred method, the remote mechanism may comprise a wireless, battery less or battery-facilitated control which may be specific to said invention’s operation or via a smart phone application and wireless communications (i.e., Bluetooth®) wherein the invention may be further configured to show the capturing of images in real time via said smart phone application thus ensuring accuracy of suitable photography and videographic imagery'.

[0034] In yet another embodiment of the preferred method, the emergency stop switch may be used to halt the platform’s movement to allow for intervention or adjustment.

[0035] In still yet another embodiment of the preferred method, the platform may be configured to operate on a mono rail system, a dual rail system, a non-rail system, a combination thereof.

[0036] In another embodiment of the preferred method, the rail system may comprise a plurality of pieces (tracks) that may be connected with one other securely to configure the shape of path for the platform to traverse.

[0037] In yet another embodiment of the preferred method, the platform configured to operate on a non-rail system comprises plurality of wheels that are adjusted and / or adjustable to varied diameters and heights for operation.In still yet another embodiment of the preferred method, the platform may be used in automotive photography, vehicle inspections or virtual showrooms or to capture group pictures of individual or inanimate objects singly in still photographs and in combination for videography.

[0038] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] So that the manner in which the present invention can be better understood, certain illustrations, charts and / or flow charts are appended hereto. It is to be noted, however, that the drawings illustrate only selected embodiments of the inventions and are therefore not to be considered limiting of scope, for the inventions can admit to other equally effective embodiments and applications.

[0040] Moreover, advantages and other aspects of the invention will be readily appreciated by those persons having skill in the art and may be better understood with further reference to the accompanying drawings in which like reference characters designate like or similar elements throughout the several figures of the drawings and wherein:

[0041] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a motorized platform of the present invention for photography and videography,

[0042] FIG. 1A is an exploded view of the components located superiorly on top section 10a of device 10;

[0043] FIG. IB is a plan view (view from above) of top section 10a of device 10;

[0044] FIG. 2 illustrates the view of the power wheel 90 of the motorized platform;

[0045] FIG. 2A is an exploded interior view of the power wheel 90 with attached

[0046] spring;FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate a middle section which comprises electrical connections of device 10 where FIG. 3A is the lateral view and FIG. 3B is a perspective view showing wheel 90 placement and internal mechanisms

[0047] However, it should be understood that the above-described figures are not intended to be limited to only the invention illustrated and to the particular embodiments disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is intended to disclose all modifications, alternatives and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined within the claim’s broadest reasonable interpretation consistent with the specification. To wit, variations in height, length, width made be accomplished as to accommodate variances in sizes of object to be photographed, and / or cameras it holds and the height, angle, and / or speed it holds or propels the cameras, as may be necessary or required.

[0048] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0049] A detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention is disclosed and described below. Yet, each and every possible feature, within the limits of the specification, are not disclosed as various iterations are postulated to be in the purview and contemplation of those having skill in the art.

[0050] It is therefore possible for those that have requisite skill in the art to make and practice the disclosed invention while observing that certain features and spatial arrangements are relative and capable of being scaled, adapted, arranged at various points about the present invention (by inventor, manufacturer or both) that nonetheless accomplishes the remediation of one or more of the infirmities as outlined and discussed above in the field of 360-degree photography devicedesign and use. As well, individual components of the present invention may be sized (i.e. enlarged or shrunken) so long as the proportions are maintained that allow for maintaining of esthetic appearance and proper functioning of the present invention that may be sized and shaped according to the size of object to be photographically captures as a stream of captured images, individual images, or a combination thereof.

[0051] Equally, it should be observed that the present invention can be understood, in terms of structure, function, or both, from the present disclosure as well as those appended claims taken in context with the associated drawings. And whereas the present invention and method of use are capable of several different embodiments and permutations, which can be modified into several different configurations, each exhibiting accompanying interchangeable functionalities, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present application as shown and described.

[0052] As detailed in FIG. 1, the present invention is directed to an apparatus for photography and videography that comprises a motorized platform 10 wherein said platform is a motor powered trolly capable of supporting attachment of a camera 110 for translocations around an object Motorized platform 10 comprises a top section 10a, interior-facing side 10b (which exists also on an exterior facing side - not shown), and bottom section 10c. Top section 10a is connected to bottom section 10c by plurality of columns or supports Ila (not shown), lib (shown), lie (shown), lid (not shown),.... (collectively referred to as “column or support 11”) that extend from top section 10a to bottom section 10c and enclose middle section 10b. Middle section 10b holds the circuitry and batteries 130 (not shown) for locomotion and operation of motorized platform 10. Guide wheels 90a, 90b, 90c,... (collectively referred to as “wheel 90”) are attached to the bottom section 10c and are made to contact track railing 90e on either side of bottom section 10c, and are made to run on the outermost edges, innermost edges or a combination of innermostand outmost edges of track railing 90e. In operation, wheel 90 provides locomotion for motorized platform 10 and wheels 90a-90d act to guide motorized platform 10 along a predetermined or operator determinable path as evidenced by track 90e. Said path may be predetermined by the positioning of a track or rail 90e system around an object (e.g., vehicle) with adjustments available based on object length or determined by the operator in a rail-less system wherein in a single or multiple sessions both may be employed. It is to be understood that wheels 90a-90d may further exist on the exterior facing inferior side 10c (not shown) of motorized platform 10 and on either the innermost or outmost edges of track 90e to guide motorized platform 10 along the predetermined path. Alternatively, guide wheels 90a-90d may be exhibited on either side of bottom section 10c and wheel 90 may act as both a means for locomotion and guidance on a second rail or independent of any rail where the rail system itself may be a mono rail, a dual rail system, a rail-less system or any combination thereof along a predetermined pathway.

[0053] Top section 10a comprises components including: an on / off switch 85, plurality of usb and use ports 20a, 20b, 20c, (collectively referred to as “ports 20”), one or more camera mounts 30, a Gimbel 35, camera height adjuster 40 to raise or lower camera 110, forward / off / reverse & speed control switch 50, a dual battery 130 system (not shown) with an A / B switch 60 to allow for alternating battery’ 130 actuation and greatly extend use time, battery charger plug-in 70, a digital battery voltage meter 80 to display battery strength and life, emergency switch 85, and a handle 100 in a folded configuration that can be extended to allow the platform to be pulled like a cart for transport to storage. Camera 110 is mounted on Gimbal 35 and then to camera mount 30 which is then connected to device 10. The device 10 may have mounts for additional cameras (not shown). Device 10 can be operated using the on / off switch or remotely via a wireless control, which may be specific to the operation of device 10 or supplied via a smart phone application (not shown),using wireless technology (e g., Bluetooth®) thus providing flexibility and ease of use. Emergency stop switch 90 can be used to halt movement of platform 10 to allow the user to intervene or adjust the movement of platform 10, if necessary.

[0054] FIG, 1A is an exploded view of the components located on top section 10a of device 10 in ascending order: on / off switch 85, a digital battery voltage meter 80 to display battery strength and life, battery charger plug-in 70, A / B switch 60 to allow for alternating battery 130 (not shown) actuation and greatly extend use time, forward / off / reverse & speed control switch 50, camera height adjuster 40 to raise or lower camera 110, one or more camera mounts 30, and plurality of usb and use ports 20a, 20b, 20c, (collectively referred to as “ports 20”).

[0055] FIG. IB is the plan view (view from above) of top section 10a of device 10 wherein, in addition to the components provided in FIG. 1A, handle 100 is included as a means to move device 10 manually to points of operation, when not in use or when stored. All other components shown in FIG, IB are as previously described above in FIGs, 1 and 1A.

[0056] As detailed in FIG. 2, wheel 90 is connected to a single pivot axle 120 and incorporates spring compression 121 (not shown) to allow constant contact with level or uneven ground to ensure continuous movement during operation. The wheel itself is powered by an electric motor 125 (powered by one of two batteries 130a or 130b) and actuated by A / B switch 60 to allow for alternating battery' 130 selection together with forward / off / reverse & speed control switch 50.

[0057] FIG, 2A is an exploded view of the power wheel with the compression spring 121 attached to guidance arm mechanism 123 allowing for movement over even or uneven terrain. Yet, it is in the contemplation of inventor that two to a plurality of wheels and / or springs may be used to achieve an equivalent result without departing from the disclosed device, system and method of use.FIGs. 3A-3B illustrates middle section 10b which comprises electrical connections of device 10 from batteries 130a and 130b to the operational means for locomotion (wheel 90 via electric motor 125) through connection of components 129 (shown in FIG.3B) described in FIG.

[0058] 1 through FIG. IB FIG. 3B is the plan view of lateral view FIG. 3A of middle section 10b.

[0059] Platform 10 can traverse on a mono rail or dual rail system that comprises multiple quick connect pieces that can be securely joined to configure in a circular, oval or oblong shape with single or double rail connection. Moreover, the dual rail system may be connected transversely or both rails of a dual rail system may exist independent of one another. In the case where the track or rail is a mono rail, wheel 90 may act to provide locomotion, guidance and balance whereas in the dual rail system, wheel 90 may simply provide locomotion. And, in the case where there exists a mono rail or no rail system exists, additional wheels may be employed about the inferior section 10c of device 10 for stability, facilitated motion, balance or a combination thereof.

[0060] Where there is no rail system, invention 10 may traverse on non-rail configuration where the wheels are adjusted to varied desired diameters and heights on section 10c for continuous operation. Platform 10 can also be designed to traverse on a rail system and a non-rail system, interchangeably, where necessity and / or proclivity dictate. To wit, platform 10 can be designed to have fixed wheels to varied degrees for non-rail use, or with “skate-type” wheels for rail use.

[0061] The use of platform 10 in capturing a comprehensive 360-degree view' or views of an object is a significant improvement over the methods that are in current use for a similar view. This method comprises activating a motorized platform 10 manually or remotely that securely holds a camera; capturing still and sequential images of the object at specified intervals using the camera as said platform traverses along a predetermined (mono railed, dual railed or non-rail) path around the object to be photographed; and transferring said images to an integrated application oran external application for processing, wherein said application compiles the images and presents it in a coherent 360-degree view or as individual photographic stills.

[0062] In the case that the device 10 is operated remotely, a wired or wireless controller may be utilized for device 10 operation and functionality. Where wireless technology is implemented, Bluetooth® technology may be incorporated

[0063] Although only a select few example embodiments have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the example embodiments without materially departing from this disclosure of the invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An apparatus for photography and videography, comprising:a mobile motorized platform,said mobile motorized platform securely holding one to a plurality of camera(s), wherein said platform travels along a rail-facilitated, predetermined operator determinable, or a combination thereof, path around an object to be photographed:said camera(s) capturing sequential images of the object at specified intervals as the platform traverses along the predetermined path.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the platform traverses in a circular, oval or oblong path to capture a 360-degree view of said object.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said platform further comprises:at least one power wheel;said power wheel exhibiting a single pivot axle and one to a plurality of compression springs to allow constant contact with level or uneven ground;a dual battery system;said dual battery system exhibiting an A / B switch to select between batteries:a voltage meter:said voltage meter displaying battery strength;a camera charger;an emergency stop switch;a variable speed dial;a forward / off / reverse switch;a switch to adjust height of an actuator for camera holder;a handle that can be extended to allow the platform to be pulled for transport; and a gimbal amior a combination thereof.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the platform is operated using an on / off switch located on the platform, remote mechanism or both.

5. The apparatus of claim 4. wherein the remote mechanism comprises a wired or wireless, control mechanism,6. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the emergency stop switch is used to halt the platform’s movement to allow' for intervention or adjustment.

7. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the platform is configured to operate on a mono rail system, a dual rail system, a non-rail system or a combination thereof.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the rail system comprises a plurality' of rail pieces that can be connected sequentially to securely configure the shape of said path for the platform to traverse.

9. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the platform configured to operate on a non-rail system comprising one to a plurality of wheels that are adjusted to varied diameter for operation.

10. The apparatus of claim 1. wherein the captured images are transferred to an integrated computer application or external application for processing, said application compiles the images and presents images in a coherent 360-degree view or as individual photographic stills.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said apparatus is used in automotive photography, vehicle inspections, or virtual showrooms, or to capture group pictures of individuals or inanimate objects in situ.

12. A method for capturing image of an object, comprising:activating a motorized platform that securely holds one or more than one camera(s); capturing sequential images of the object at specified intervals using the camera(s) as said platform traverses along an operator determined or rail-assisted, predetermined path around the object to be photographed: andtransferring said images to an integrated application or an external application for processing, wherein said application compiles the images and presents images m a coherent 360 degree view or as individual photographic stills.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein capturing images is operator directed or autonomously directed as tlie platform traverses in a circular, oval or oblong path to capture 360 degree view of the object.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein said platform further comprises capturing images with the described apparatus of claim 1 comprising:at least one power wheel with a single pivot axle and a compression spring or springs to allow constant contact with level or uneven ground:a dual battery system with an A / B switch to greatly extend use time;a digital voltage meter to display battery strength;a charger w ith a single port plugin;an emergency stop switch;a variable speed dial;a forward / off / 'reverse switch;a switch to adjust height of an actuator for camera holder;a handle that can be extended to allow' the platform to be pulled for transport;or a combination thereof.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein capturing images via said platform wherein said platform is operated using an on / off switch located on the platform, remote mechanism or both.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein capturing images is operated via a remote mechanism comprises a wired or wireless control.

17. The method of claim 14, wherein capturing images is operated via the emergency stop switch used to halt the platform’s movement to allow for intervention or adjustment18. The method of claim 14, wherein capturing images is operated via said platform configured to operate on a rail system, a non-rail system or both.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein capturing images is operated via the rail system comprises plurality of rail pieces that can be connected with each other securely to configure the shape of path for the platform to traverse.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein capturing images is operated via the platform configured to operate on a non-rail system comprises a plurality of wheels that are adjusted to varied diameters for operation.

21. The method of claim 12, wherein capturing images is operated via said platform used in automotive photography, vehicle inspections, or virtual showrooms, or to capture group pictures of individuals or inanimate objects.

Images