Apparatus for capturing views from ground level

Abstract

A support apparatus for photographic use; the apparatus comprising an elongate body consisting of a first and a second end; a display mount positioned at the first end; a bracket, positioned at the second end, configured to support an imaging device mount; a first angular positioning apparatus configured to connect the display mount to the first end of the elongate portion; a second angular positioning apparatus configured to connect the bracket to the second end of the elongate portion, the first and second angular positioning apparatus being configured to adjust the angular position of the display mount and bracket, respectively; and a controller, configured to control the operation of a user's imaging device.

Description

APPARATUS FOR CAPTURING VIEWS FROM GROUND LEVELFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention is concerned with viewing an environment from a below or above eye level perspective without the need for the viewer to position themselves at the viewing level.BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0002] In the filming and photography industry, as cameras have become ever smaller and lighter, photographers have been enabled to explore and capture ever more views from different perspectives. A camera alone cannot capture the best images, the creative eye of a talented photographer is needed to capture the best lighting and angle and frame the shot to create a truly artistic work. This can require photographers to position themselves in unusual and often uncomfortable positions to capture the perfect shot. Low level shots can involve lying or crawling on the ground, higher level shots can involve climbing, in both cases the photographer puts themselves at risk of injury.

[0003] It is an objective of the present invention to enable photographers to capture images at significantly below or above eye level whilst standing upright, or mobile, in a comfortable position. A further objective of the present invention is to enable photographers to operate the focus, position and capture images at a position remote to the camera.statement of the invention

[0004] In a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a support apparatus for photographic use; the apparatus comprising an elongate body consisting of a first and a second end; a display mount positioned at the first end; a bracket, positioned at the second end, configured to support an imaging device mount; a first angular positioning apparatus configured to connect the display mount to the first end of the elongate portion; a second angular positioning apparatus configured to connect the bracket to the second end of the elongate portion, the first and second angular positioning apparatus being configured to adjust the angular position of the display mount and bracket, respectively; and a controller, configured to control the operation of a user’s imaging device. Advantageously, this allows a user to apply their own mobile phone, or imaging device, to one end and a display device to the other, in order to capture photography / videography at perspectives not readily attainable.

[0005] Preferably, the elongate body comprises a handle, configured to house a telescoping rod; the telescoping rod is configured to partially project from the handle; whereby, the first end of the elongate body is located distal to the telescoping rod projection; and the projecting portion of the telescoping rod provides the second end of the elongate body. This is advantageous, as it allows the apparatus to be stored in a compact configuration when not in use.

[0006] Preferably, the first angular positioning apparatus is configured as a pivot operated by a twist lock switch.

[0007] Preferably, the second angular positioning apparatus is configured as a pivot operated by a twist lock switch.

[0008] By providing the first and second angular positioning devices with a twist lock switch, the complexity of the device is reduced and therefore the product cost. Moreover, by use of such simple apparatus, the total mass and dimensions of the device are reduced and therefore portability is improved.

[0009] Alternatively, the controller is configured to controlthe angular position of the imaging device mount, via the angular positioning apparatus. This is beneficial for users wanting to make in situ amendments to the pitch and yaw of the imaging device when in use.

[0010] Alternatively, the angular positioning apparatus is a gimbal. This is advantageous as the gimbal stabilises the image when the user is moving with the device.

[0011] Alternatively, wherein the angular positioning apparatus is a servomotor. This is advantageous when users wish to make in situ amendments to the pitch and yaw, without the consequential added mass of a gimbal. Moreover, the simplicity of servomotors reduce the cost of fabricating the device. Furthermore, when the device is out of power, a servomotor will not drop the imaging device mount, which would be apparent with a gimbal.

[0012] Alternatively, the angular positioning apparatus comprises a first and second servomotor, the first and second servomotor being positioned upon perpendicular intersecting axes. This is advantageous as it allows further degrees of freedom, with respect to amending the pitch and yaw of the imaging device mount when in use.

[0013] Preferably, the bracket is a L-bracket. This is advantageous as it allows the device to be folded in a compact manner. Moreover, the L-bracket may be configured with a longitudinal imaging device mount, which can be rotated upon a co-linear axis to that of the L-bracket, improving the stored dimensions of the device further.

[0014] Preferably, the imaging device mount comprises a male portion rotatably received within a corresponding female portion of the L-shaped bracket, thereby permitting relative rotation whilst preventing disengagement. This is advantageous, as it provides greater degrees of freedom with respect to the perspective afforded for the imaging device. Moreover, this allows for the imaging device mount to be rotated to a complimentary position for compact storage.

[0015] Preferably, the display mount comprises magnetic mount portion, configured to releasably connect with a digital display comprising a reciprocal magnetic mount portion. This is advantageous, as it allows quick release of a display mount; thereby improving the portability and compatibility.

[0016] Preferably, wherein the apparatus comprises a digital display device.

[0017] Preferably, the digital display device comprises a magnetic mount portion configured to releasably connect to the corresponding magnetic mount portion of the display mount.

[0018] Preferably, the imaging device mount is a spring-loaded phone clamp. This is advantageous, as it allows fora plurality of devices of varied dimensions to be operatively engaged with apparatus.

[0019] Alternatively, the controller is integral to the elongate body.

[0020] Preferably, the controller non-integral and housed in a controller housing. This is advantageous, as it allows remote operation of the device, when in use.

[0021] Preferably, the controller housing comprises a push release button, configured to eject the controller from the house. This is advantageous for quick release of the stowed controller.

[0022] Alternatively, the controller housing is configured to receive and eject the controller via a slider and push-fit mechanism. This is advantageous for reducing the complexity of the design and thereby the fabrication costs.

[0023] Preferably, the controller is configured to wirelessly connect to a user’s imaging device. This is advantageous as it precluded inter-operable issues with respect to physical electrical connections.

[0024] Additionally, the digital display device is configured to wirelessly connect to a user’s imaging device.

[0025] Preferably, the apparatus further comprises wired electrical connections configured to communicate between the user’s imaging device and controller and display device, such that the device is operable in environments where wireless communications is impaired.

[0026] Alternatively, wherein the digital display mount is integral with the digital display.

[0027] Optionally, the control panel, acting as an adjusting device may, for example, comprise a joystick operably connected to the angular positioning apparatus. The joystick may be mechanically and / or electrically connected to the angular positioning apparatus. In another example, the adjusting device may comprise one or more control buttons electrically connected to the angular positioning apparatus, each configured to control movement of the angular positioning apparatus in a different degree of freedom.

[0028] In another embodiment, the adjustment device may comprise a touch screen control panel configured to communicate directional adjustment instructions to the angular positioning apparatus.

[0029] Optionally the angular positioning apparatus is integrally formed with the elongate portion, in an alternative the angular positioning apparatus is detachable.

[0030] In use, an image capture device such as a smart phone is mounted on the imaging device mount, connected thereto via the angular positioning apparatus at the first end, and a display device mount is mounted in the mount at the second end.

[0031] The display device is configured to connect with the image capture device and reproduce an image being captured by the image capture device. The connection may be wired or wireless.

[0032] In use, a photographer positions the image capture device at a level at which they want to capture an image, the view captured by the image capture device is displayed on the display device. The photographer adjusts the elongate portion to position the display device at a comfortable viewing position. Using the control panel, the photographer repositions the image capture device until the preferred shot is framed.

[0033] Embodiments of the invention may include a display device configured for data communication with a user’s image capture device. The display device may include an interface through which the user can communicate instructions to the image capture device, for example, instructions may include; zooming in or out on a view, and recording or ceasing recording of the view. The configuration may be wired or wireless. Optionally the interface is in the form of an interactive touch screen. In a further option, the display device may also be in data communication with the angular positioning apparatus and the interface is enabled to communicate instructions to adjust position of the angular positioning apparatus. Optionally, the display device is integrally formed with the elongate support.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0034] Embodiments of the invention will now be described solely by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0035] Figure 1 illustrates a first embodiment of a device in accordance with the invention.

[0036] Figure 2 illustrates a second embodiment of a device in accordance with the invention.

[0037] Figure 3 illustrates a third embodiment of the device in accordance with the invention.

[0038] Figure 4 illustrates the third embodiment in a second perspective view.

[0039] Figure 5 illustrates a fourth embodiment of a device in accordance with the invention.

[0040] Figure 6 illustrates the fourth embodiment in a second perspective view.

[0041] Figure 7 illustrates a fifth embodiment of a device in accordance with the invention.

[0042] Figure 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the fourth embodiment.

[0043] Figure 9 illustrates a magnetic attachment ring.

[0044] Figure 10 illustrates a first perspective view of a digital display.

[0045] Figure 11 illustrates a second perspective view of the digital display.

[0046] Figure 12 illustrates a first perspective view of a L-bracket.

[0047] Figure 13 illustrates a second perspective view of the L-bracket.

[0048] Figure 14 illustrates a first perspective view of a spring-loaded phone clamp.

[0049] Figure 15 illustrates a second perspective view of a spring-loaded phone clamp.

[0050] Figure 16 illustrates the spring-loaded phone clamp fastened in a collinear axis configuration with respect to the L-bracket.

[0051] Figure 17 illustrates the spring-loaded phone clamp fastened in an orthogonal axis configuration with respect to the L-bracket.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0052] As can be seen in Figure 1 , a device in accordance with the invention comprises a telescopically extendible support rod comprising inner and outer telescopically arranged rod portions 1a and 1b. Arranged at a first end of the rod is a gimbal 2. The gimbal 2 includes a mount 3 for holding an image capture device such as a mobile phone 4 which includes a camera.

[0053] Arranged at a second end of the support rod 1a, 1b, distal from the first end, is a support 5 configured to hold a display device 7. The support 5 might include securing means for securely holding the display device. Examples of securing means may include; straps, a hook and loop interface or a magnet.

[0054] The support 5 may be mounted to the elongate portion 1a, 1 b by means of a ball joint allowing the orientation of the support 5 to be adjusted. Adjacent the support 5 is a joystick 6 which is operable to adjust the position of the gimbal 2. The convenient location of the joystick 6 close to the support 5 allows the user to adjust position of the gimbal whilst monitoring the view seen by an image capture device 4 through the display device.

[0055] Figure 2 shows an alternative embodiment of a device in accordance with the invention. The device of Figure 2 comprises an elongate portion 11 which is made up of a concertinaed tube. At a first end of the concertinaed tube is an angular positioning apparatus, in the form of a gimbal 12, having a holder 13 for an imaging device such as a mobile phone 14. Attached to a second end of the concertinaed tube is a display device 15 which includes a casing 16 surrounding a screen 17. Fitted in the casing are a number of control buttons 18, 19. The display device 15 communicates with the gimbal 12 and the holder 13 forthe imaging device through wiring which passes through the tube 11. The wire [not shown] terminates adjacent the holder 13 in a connector which is compatible with image capture devices such as mobile phone 14. For example the connector may comprise a USB C connector. The control buttons are configured such that buttons 18 control operations of the mobile phone 14 such as image capture or zoom. The control buttons 19 are configured such that the buttons control movement of 3 separate joints of the gimbal 12 enabling movement of the holder 13 in three degrees of freedom.

[0056] The concertinaed tube is fabricated to have sufficient strength to support the display device 15 and gimbal 12 without deforming, but is sufficiently pliable that a user can bend, stretch or compress the tube 11 to position the holder 13 in a desired position relative to the display device 17. It will be appreciated the tube 11 can be deformed adjacent to the display device 15 to re-orient the display device removing the need for an additional ball joint such as that described in Figure 1 .

[0057] Figure 3 and Figure 4 demonstrate a third embodiment in accordance with the invention. The device of Figure 3 and Figure 4 comprises a first 48 and a second 52 housing. The housings 48, 52 are configured to receive and house, when in a retracted configuration, a telescoping rod 50.

[0058] The first housing 48 is further configured to house electronic components [not shown], including a power source [not shown] and to act as a handle in use. The second housing 52 is further configured to house a first servomotor 54. The first 48 and second 52 housings are, byway of example but not limited to, fabricated from a lightweight, corrosion resistant material, such as aluminium alloy, stainless steel or a composite material such as carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) or glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) or a suitably robust plastic.

[0059] The telescoping rod 50 is configured to extend between the first 48 and second 52 housing. The telescoping rod 50 comprises nested tubular segments configured to extend and retract relative to one another via, byway of example but not limited to, a friction fit, detent or locking mechanism.

[0060] The telescoping rod 50 is further configured to be of a suitable strength to resist torsional forces and support components located at the respective distal ends of the first and second housings 48, 52.

[0061] The telescoping rod 50 is fabricated out of material configured to be of a lightweight construction, express a high tensile strength and be corrosion resistant. By way of example, but not limited to, the telescoping rod 50 can be fabricated from aluminium alloys, stainless steel, CFRP, GFRP or titanium alloys.

[0062] A first elongate projection 41 extends from the distal end of the first housing 48. The first elongate projection 41 comprises a pivot 52 located at the end distal to the first housing 48; whereby, the first elongate projection 41 is pivotally attached to a display device mount 40. The display device mount 40 is configured to receive a digital display [not shown]. In an alternative configuration, the digital display mount 40 comprises an integrally formed digital display, forming a single unit.

[0063] The first servomotor 54 is housed within the second housing 52 and configured such that at least the shaft of the first servomotor 54 extends through the distal end of the second housing 52. The servomotor 54 is fastened to a second elongate projection 51, of bracket 64, located adjacent and orientated perpendicular to the distal end of the second housing 52.

[0064] The bracket 64 in communication with the first servomotor 54 is configured to rotate about an axis coaxial to the longitudinal axis of the second housing 52.

[0065] The bracket 64 consists of the second elongate projection 51, an arched offset 62 and a third elongate projection 58. The bracket further consists of a second servomotor 56, located distally on the third elongate projection 58.

[0066] The second servomotor 56 is embedded in the third elongate projection 58 and is orientated such that the shaft of the second servomotor 56 extends towards a central axis with respect to the second housing 52. The shaft of the second servomotor 56 rotationally fastens an image device mount 60 located adjacent and orientated perpendicular to the third elongate projection 58.

[0067] The image device mount 60 in communication with the second servomotor 56 is configured to rotate about an axis perpendicular to the orientation of the third elongate projection 58.

[0068] The offset arch 62 is configured to sufficiently offset the third elongate projection 58 to provide sufficient space such that the image device mount 60 locates an image device [not shown] upon a colinear axis with respect to the second housing 52.

[0069] Moreover, the offset arch 62 is configured to sufficiently offset the elongate projection 58 to provide sufficient space such that the image device mount 60 and image device [not shown], in situ, have sufficient space to rotate 360° unimpeded.

[0070] A controller in the form of a control panel 44 comprising control buttons 46 is located on the first housing 48. The control buttons 46 are configured to control the yaw of the first 54 and second 56 servomotors respectively. The control panel is further configured to control the focus, zoom and capture of images via an image device in use. Furthermore, the control panel 44 is configured to control the recording and capture of video via an image device in use.

[0071] The control panel 44 is electrically connected to a first wireless communication unit, configured to communicate with a second and third wireless communication units electrically connected to the first 54 and second 56 servomotors, respectively. The wireless communication unit may further be used to communicate the control panel 44 with an image device and a digital display in use.

[0072] In an alternative configuration, the control panel 44 may be configured to communicate with the first 54 and second 56 servomotors via an electronic cable. In the alternative configuration the electroniccable may further be used to communicate the control panel 44 with an image device and digital display in use.

[0073] In an alternative embodiment [not shown] the control panel is configured as a digital representation, via a generated user interface (GUI), accessible by a digital touch screen; wherein, the digital touch screen is simultaneously the digital display located upon the display mount 40.

[0074] Figures 5 and 6 demonstrate a preferred fourth embodiment 200 of the invention. Figure 7 illustrates a fifth embodiment 300 which shares equal technical features of the fourth embodiment 200, other than a variation in configuration of the controller housing 311.

[0075] The device 200 comprises an elongate handle 120. The handle 120 comprises a first end 121. As illustrated in the cross-sectional perspective of Figure 8, the handle 120 is hollow and further configured to receive and house, when in a retracted configuration, a telescoping rod 123. The telescoping rod partially projects from the handle 120 to provide a second end 122.

[0076] By way of example but not limited to, the handle 120 may be fabricated from a lightweight, corrosion resistant material, such as aluminium alloy, stainless steel or a composite material such as carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) or glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) or a suitably robust plastic.

[0077] The telescoping rod 123 is configured to project from the handle 120. The telescoping rod 123 comprises nested tubular segments configured to extend and retract relative to one another via, byway of example but not limited to, a friction fit, detent or locking mechanism.

[0078] The telescoping rod 123 is further configured to be of a suitable strength to resist torsional forces and support components pivotally fastened at the respective first 121 and second 122 ends.

[0079] The telescoping rod 123 is fabricated out of material configured to be of a lightweight construction, express a high tensile strength and be corrosion resistant. Byway of example, but not limited to, the telescoping rod 123 can be fabricated from aluminium alloys, stainless steel, CFRP, GFRP or titanium alloys.

[0080] The first end 121 is pivotally engaged with a display mount 101, via a pivot 102. The pivot 102, in communication with a twist lock switch 103, is configured to allow incremental angular positioning of the display mount 101 , with respect to the handle 120.

[0081] As illustrated in Figure 9, the display mount 101 comprises a pivot arrangement 102, consisting of a pair of spaced parallel arms defining a clevis, each arm including a respective aperture configured to communicate with a transverse bore extending through the corresponding first end 121 of the handle 120, wherein a pivot pin is receivable through the apertures and the bore to defines a rotational axis.

[0082] Alternatively, the pivot arrangement 102 may comprise a single-lug and fork interface, a hinge joint, or a ball-and-socket joint, each configured to permit angular displacement of the display mount 101 relative to the handle 120.

[0083] In further embodiments, the pivot arrangement 102 may incorporate a detent mechanism, ratchet interface or friction clutch, operable in cooperation with the twist lock 103, to provide discrete incremental angular positioning and selective locking of the display mount 101.

[0084] The pivot 102 may comprise a pin, axle, or other rotational coupling element formed from a wear resistant material, for example stainless steel, steel, brass or, an engineering polymer. In some arrangements, the display mount 101 is formed from a polymeric material and the pivot 102 is formed from a metallic material.

[0085] The display mount 101 further comprises a magnetic mount portion 104. The display mount 101 and magnetic mount portion 104 are integrally formed as a unitary component from a common material. The common materialis selected such that it does not substantially impede the functionality of the magnetic mount portion 104, for example by avoiding significant attenuation, shielding, or interference with a magnetic field.

[0086] Alternatively, the magnetic mount portion 104 may be provided as a discrete component coupled to the display mount 101. In such arrangements, the display mount may be formed from any suitable rigid material, including a metal or polymeric material. By way of example, but not limited to, the display mount 101 may be formed of aluminium, stainless steel, polyamide or polycarbonate.

[0087] The magnetic mount portion 104 is configured to releasably engage a digital display device 100.

[0088] As illustrated in Figures 10 and 11, the digital display device 100 comprises a digital display 107 disposed on a first face and a magnetic mount portion 106 disposed on an opposing face. The magnetic mount portion 106 is configured to releasably connect with the magnetic mount portion 104 of the display mount 101.

[0089] In alternative embodiments, the magnetic mount 104 may be omitted and replaced with an alternative mounting arrangement configured to retain a display in situ. Such alternative mounting arrangements may include, for example but not limited to, a mechanical clamp, clip, friction fit interface, adhesive mount, suction mount and any other suitable retention mechanism.

[0090] The second end 122 is pivotally engaged with a L-bracket 131, via a pivot 132. The pivot 132, in communication with a twist lock switch 133, is configured to allow incremental angular positioning of the L-bracket 131 , with respect to the handle 120.

[0091] The L-bracket 131 comprises a pivot arrangement 132, comprising a pair of spaced parallel arms defining a clevis, each arm including a respective aperture configured to communicate with a transversebore extending through a corresponding portion of the second end 122 of the handle 120, wherein a pivot pin is receivable through the apertures and the bore to define a rotational axis.

[0092] Alternatively, the pivot arrangement 132 may comprise a single-lug and fork interface, a hinge joint or a ball-and-socket joint, each configured to permit angular displacement of the L-bracket 131 relative to the handle 120.

[0093] In further embodiments, the pivot arrangement 132 may incorporate a detent mechanism, ratchet interface or friction clutch operable in cooperation with the twist lock switch 133 to provide discrete incremental angular positioning and selective locking of the L-bracket 131.

[0094] The pivot 132 may comprise a pin, axle or other rotational coupling element formed from a wear resistant material, for example stainless steel, steel, brass or an engineering polymer.

[0095] The combination of the pivot 132 and twist lock switch 133 allows for the omission of any gimbal, servomotor or powered positioning system, thereby reducing weight and complexity; therefore, the cost of manufacture is reduced and the portability of the device 200 / 300 is improved.

[0096] The L-bracket 131 further comprises an orifice 136 configured to rotationally receive a corresponding male portion 140 of an imaging device mount provided as spring-loaded phone clamp 130. The orifice 136 defines a rotational interface to permit relative rotation of the phone clamp with respect to the L- bracket 131.

[0097] The L-bracket 131 further comprises a cover portion 134 disposed over the orifice 136. The cover portion 134 is configured to retain a rotational element within the orifice 136 and to inhibit axial displacement thereof. Additionally, or alternatively, the cover portion 134 may provide a bearing surface, reduced ingress of debris, or improve the aesthetic finish of the L-bracket 131.

[0098] The L-bracket 131 may be formed from any suitable rigid material, including a metal or polymeric material. By way of example, but not limited to, the L-bracket 131 may be formed of aluminium, stainless steel, polyamide or polycarbonate.

[0099] In some arrangements, the L-bracket 131 is formed from a polymeric material and the pivot 132 is formed from a metallic material.

[0100] The L-bracket 131 is configured to be operatively coupled to the spring-loaded phone clamp 130.

[0101] The spring-loaded phone clamp 130 is configured as a universal device holder adapted to receive a range of user devices, including smartphones of varying sizes and configurations. The spring-loaded phone clamp 130 enables interchangeability of devices without modification of the apparatus.

[0102] As illustrated in Figures 14 to 17, the spring-loaded phone clamp 130 comprises a first face 138 and a second face 139. Disposed on the first face 138 is a first jaw 137 and a second jaw 137”, the jaws being configured to retain an imaging device therebetween under a spring-loaded bias.

[0103] Disposed on the second face 139 is a male portion 140 configured to be rotationally received within the orifice 136 of the L-bracket 131. The male portion 140 and the orifice 136 together define a rotational interface to permit relative angular displacement of the spring-loaded phone clamp 130 with respect to the L-bracket 131 .

[0104] The rotational interface is configured to permit positioning of the spring-loaded phone clamp 130 in at least a co-linear arrangement and an orthogonal arrangement relative to the L-bracket 131 , as illustrated in Figures 16 and 17, respectively.

[0105] Advantageously, such configurability permits accommodation of a greater number of devices, facilitates a plurality of attachment configurations and enables compact storage in the co-linear arrangement.

[0106] In alternative embodiments, the spring-loaded phone clamp 130 may be omitted and replaced with an alternative device retention arrangement.

[0107] Such alternative retention arrangement may include, but is not limited to, a friction fit clamp, a screw-adjustable clamp, an elastically deformable cradle, a clip interface, a magnetic interface, an adhesive interface or a suction interface, each configured to retain a device in situ.

[0108] In further embodiments, the retention arrangement may comprise a device-specific mount or docking interface configured to engage a corresponding feature of the device.

[0109] Accordingly, the L-bracket 131 and the orifice 136 may be configured to receive a variety of interchangeable device retention modules and the invention is not limited to embodiments comprising the spring-loaded phone clamp 130.

[0110] As illustrated in Figures 5, 6 and 7, the device 200 further comprises a controller 110 disposed within a controller housing 111. The controller housing 111 is attached to or integrally formed with the handle 120. In a preferred embodiment, the controller housing 111 is located distal to the second end 122 of the handle 120.

[0111] The controller housing 111 comprises a push release mechanism configured to allow the controller 110 to be selectively removed from the controller housing 111.

[0112] As illustrated in the cross-sectional view of Figure 8, the push release mechanism comprises a button 112 and an arcuate actuator 113, the actuator 113 being configured to slide and urge the controller 110 outwardly from the controller housing 111 upon actuation of the button 112.

[0113] In an alternative embodiment 300 illustrated in Figure 7, the controller housing 311 comprises a slider and push fit configuration for receiving and retaining the controller 110.

[0114] The controller 110 is configured to wirelessly interact with an image device [not shown] secured to the spring-loaded phone clamp 130.

[0115] Ina preferred embodiment, the controller 110 is configured to communicate with the imaging device via a Bluetooth connection.

[0116] The controller 110 is configured to enable a user to control operation of the imaging device, including zoom, focus and capture of images and video.

[0117] In an alternative embodiment, the controller 110 may comprise a connection interface configured to communicate with an internal cabling system [not shown] housed within the handle 120. In such an embodiment, the controller 110, the digital display device 100 and the imaging device are configured to be electrically connected via waterproof cabling.

[0118] The digital display device 100, illustrated in Figures 10 and 11, is configured to communicate with an imaging device to receive data corresponding to captured images or video.

[0119] In use, the digital display device 100 is configured to provide real time visual feedback of the image captured by the user’s imaging device, allowing the user to actively compose and adjust framing prior to, or during image or video capture. Therefore, the user is able to compose images from perspectives not directly readily attainable or visible to the user.

[0120] In a preferred embodiment, the digital display device 100 is configured to communicate with the imaging device via a wireless connection, preferably a Bluetooth connection.

[0121] The digital display device 100 further comprises an input / output port 105. In the present embodiment, the input / output port 105 comprises a USB Type-C port.

[0122] The input / output port 105 is configured to permit charging of the digital display device 100 and to enable communication with external devices, including a display device, a memory device or a computer.

[0123] In an alternative embodiment, the input / output port 105 maybe configured to communicate with an internal cabling system housed within the handle 120. In such an embodiment, the digital display device 100, the controller 110 and the imaging device are configured to be electrically connected via waterproof cabling.

[0124] A method of using the device 200 / 300 comprises the steps of providing an imaging device (not forming part of the invention), holding the device 200 / 300 by the handle 120 and extending the telescoping rod 123 from within the handle 120 by pulling on the second end 122.

[0125] The method further comprises magnetically securing the digital display device 100 to the magnetic mount portion 104 of the display mount 101 .

[0126] The method further comprises loosening the twist lock switch 133 associated with the pivot 132 of the L-bracket 131 and unfolding the L-bracket 131 .

[0127] The method further comprises securing the imaging device within the spring-loaded phone clamp 130.

[0128] The method further comprises loosening the twist lock switch 103 associated with the pivot 102 of the display mount 101, adjusting the angular position of the display mount 101 such that the digital display device 100 is visible to the user and tightening the twist lock switch 103 to secure the selected position.

[0129] The method further comprises adjusting the rotational position of the spring-loaded phone clamp 130 with respect to the L-bracket 131 and adjustingthe angular position of the L-bracket 131 by loosening and tightening the twist lock switch 133 associated with the pivot 132 to orient the imaging device in situ.

[0130] The method further comprises connecting the controller 110 and the digital display device 100 to the imaging device, visualizing captured images or video on the digital display device 100 and controlling operation of the imaging device via the controller 110.

[0131] The method further comprises disengaging the imaging device from the spring-loaded phone clamp 130 and disengaging the digital display device 100 from the display mount 101 .

[0132] The method further comprises arranging the spring-loaded phone clamp 130 in a co-linear configuration with the L-bracket 131, retracting the telescoping rod 123 into the handle 120 and loosening the twist lock switches 103 / 133 to permit folding of the display mount 101 and the L-bracket 131.

[0133] The method further comprises tightening the twist lock switches 103, 133 to secure the display mount 101 and L-bracket 131 in a compact configuration for storage.

[0134] It will be appreciated that the respective configurations of the display device 7, 15, 100 and control panels 6, 18, 19, 44, 110 enable one-handed operation of the apparatus, allowing the user to simultaneously view, adjust and capture images while holding the apparatus.

[0135] It will be appreciated that the respective embodiments may be made from modern plastics, such that the respective devices are configured to be lightweight and portable, enabling convenient and rapid deployment in a variety of environments.

[0136] It will be appreciated that the disclosed embodiments may alternatively or additionally comprise a wired electrical connection configured to communicate between the imaging device, control device anddisplay device, such that the device is operable in environments where wireless communication is impaired, for example underwater.

[0137] It will be appreciated that other embodiments may comprise a subset of the features described in the embodiments described herein and that other embodiments may comprise a combination of

Claims

CLAIMS1. A support apparatus for photographic use; the apparatus comprising an elongate body consisting of a first and a second end; a display mount positioned at the first end; a bracket, positioned at the second end, configured to support an imaging device mount; a first angular positioning apparatus configured to connect the display mount to the first end of the elongate portion; a second angular positioning apparatus configured to connect the bracket to the second end of the elongate portion, the first and second angular positioning apparatus being configured to adjust the angular position of the display mount and bracket, respectively; and a controller, configured to control the operation of a user’s imaging device.

2. A support apparatus in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the elongate body comprises a handle, configured to house a telescoping rod; the telescoping rod is configured to partially project from the handle; whereby, the first end of the elongate body is located distal to the telescoping rod projection; and the projecting portion of the telescoping rod provides the second end of the elongate body.

3. A support apparatus in accordance with claim 1 or 2, wherein the first angular positioning apparatus is configured as a pivot operated by a twist lock switch.

4. A support apparatus in accordance with claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the second angular positioning apparatus is configured as a pivot operated by a twist lock switch.

5. The support apparatus in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured to control the angular position of the imaging device mount, via the angular positioning apparatus.

6. The support apparatus in accordance with claim 5, wherein the angular positioning apparatus is a gimbal.

7. The support apparatus in accordance with claim 5, wherein the angular positioning apparatus is a servomotor.

8. The support apparatus in accordance with claim 5, wherein the angular positioning apparatus comprises a first and second servomotor, the first and second servomotor being positioned upon perpendicular intersecting axes.

9. A support apparatus in accordance with claim 5, wherein the bracket is a L-bracket.

10. A support apparatus in accordance with claim 9, wherein the imaging device mount comprises a male portion rotatably received within a corresponding female portion of the L-shaped bracket, thereby permitting relative rotation whilst preventing disengagement.

11. A support apparatus in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the display mount comprises magnetic mount portion, configured to releasably connect with a digital display comprising a reciprocal magnetic mount portion.

12. A support apparatus in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus comprises a digital display device.

13. A support apparatus in accordance with claim 12, wherein the digital display device comprises a magnetic mount portion configured to releasably connect to the corresponding magnetic mount portion of the display mount.

14. A support apparatus in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the imaging device mount is a spring-loaded phone clamp.

15. A support apparatus in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the controller is integral to the elongate body.

16. A support apparatus in accordance with claims 1 to 14, wherein the controller non-integral and housed in a controller housing.

17. A support apparatus in accordance with claim 16, wherein the controller housing comprises a push release button, configured to eject the controller from the house.

18. A support apparatus in accordance with claim 16, wherein the controller housing is configured to receive and eject the controller via a slider and push-fit mechanism.

19. A support apparatus in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured to wirelessly connect to a user’s imaging device.

20. A support apparatus in accordance with claims 12 to 19, wherein the digital display device is configured to wirelessly connect to a user’s imaging device.

21. A support apparatus in accordance with claims 12 to 20, wherein the apparatus further comprises wired electrical connections configured to communicate between the user’s imaging device and controller and display device, such that the device is operable in environments where wireless communications is impaired.

22. The support apparatus in accordance with claims 12 to 21, wherein the digital display mount is integral with the digital display.

23. The support apparatus in accordance with claims 12 to 22, wherein the digital display comprises a first wireless communication unit configured to communicate with an imaging device.

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