Astronomy counterweight for a telescope mount

Abstract

An adjustable counterweight assembly for an astronomical telescope mount is disclosed. The counterweight assembly includes a main body weight and an inner bore adapter to accommodate therewith. The counterweight assembly further includes an adapter pole having a first adapter pole thread to engage with a first adapter thread of the inner bore adapter. The counterweight assembly includes a stopper and balancing ring mounted on the adapter pole, wherein the stopper and balancing ring includes counter screws to secure the stopper and balancing ring to the adapter pole. The counterweight assembly also includes a bushing positioned on one end of the adapter pole above the main body weight. The counterweight assembly further includes an Olympic weight having a central hole configured to fit around a central part of the bushing, wherein the bushing includes notches to prevent rotational movement of Olympic weight and to hold Olympic weight snugly secure.

Description

ASTRONOMY COUNTERWEIGHT FOR A TELESCOPE MOUNTFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to telescope counterweight and more particularly relates to astronomy counterweight for a telescope mount.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Astronomical telescopes require stable mounting systems to properly support and position optical tubes for celestial observation and astrophotography. The most commonly utilized mounting system for serious amateur and professional astronomers is the Equatorial Mount (also known as an "EQ Mount"), which allows for precise tracking of celestial objects as they move across the night sky due to Earth's rotation.

[0003] Equatorial mounts employ a counterweight system to balance the optical tube assembly and accessories placed on the mount. The balancing capability is essential for proper operation of the mount's tracking motors, reduction of gear strain, and overall stability during observation and imaging sessions. Counterweights are mounted on a dedicated counterweight shaft that extends opposite to the telescope's optical tube, creating a balanced system that pivots around the mount's rotational axes.

[0004] A significant limitation in the current market is the lack of standardization in counterweight shaft diameters across different telescope mount manufacturers. Common shaft diameters include, but are not limited to, 'A-inch, %-inch, 1.11 -inch, 1.25-inch, 1.5-inch, and 2-inch. This variation forces astronomers who own multiple telescope mounting systems to purchase and maintain separate sets of counterweights specific to each mount's shaft diameter.

[0005] The problem is particularly acute for amateur and professional astronomers who typically maintain multiple telescope mounting systems for different purposes, such as:

[0006] Large pier-mounted observatory systems for permanent installation

[0007] Portable large-aperture systems for dark-sky site transportation

[0008] Medium-sized systems for general observing

[0009] Compact travel systems for astronomy during trips or vacations

[0010] Each of these systems commonly employs a different counterweight shaft diameter, creating unnecessary expense and logistical complications. The cost of manufacturerspecific counterweights is substantial and varies between manufacturers but remain consistently high across the industry. Additionally, astronomers frequently need multiple counterweights of varying masses to properly balance different telescope configurations, optical tubes, and accessory loads, which consequently increase the expense and complexity of maintaining multiple telescope systems.

[0011] Conventional attempts to address these issues have been limited primarily to "do-it-yourself (DIY) solutions created by individual astronomers. These homemade solutions often lack proper engineering, safety considerations, secure attachment mechanisms, and professional finish. Commercial solutions offering universal compatibility across different shaft sizes while maintaining proper balance, security, and ease of use have been notably absent from the market.

[0012] Hence, there is a need for an invention that addresses these limitations by providing a universal counterweight system that accommodates virtually any telescope mount counterweight shaft diameter. Further, the system must allow the astronomers to use a single set of counterweights across their entire collection of telescope mounts, regardless of manufacturer or shaft dimension specifications, while also providing weight adjustability and flexibility to achieve precise balance for different equipment configurations without purchasing additional counterweights. Therefore, the present invention disclosed herein solves the compatibility problem between different mount systems, while significantly reducing equipment costs for astronomers, simplifying logistics and increasing the utility of their existing equipment.BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] It is an object of the present invention to provide a universal telescope counterweight system capable of accommodating multiple shaft diameters without modification.

[0014] It is another object of the present invention to eliminate the need for astronomers to purchase separate counterweights for different telescope mounts.

[0015] It is yet another object of the present invention to create an adjustable counterweight that can be adapted to various telescope mount shaft sizes including, but not limited to, ! -inch, %-inch, 1.11 -inch, 1.25-inch, 1.5-inch, and 2-inch diameters.

[0016] It is further object of the present invention to provide a secure attachment mechanism that prevents slippage or movement during telescope operation.

[0017] It is another object of the present invention to enable weight adjustability within a single counterweight assembly while allowing for precise balance without purchasing additional weights.

[0018] It is yet another object of the present invention to ensure compatibility with both existing and future telescope mount designs from various manufacturers.

[0019] It is further object of the present invention to simplify equipment logistics for astronomers who own multiple telescope mounting systems.

[0020] It is another object of the present invention to provide a solution that maintains proper center of gravity and balance characteristics essential for precision astronomical observation and astrophotography.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0021] The present invention will become clearly understood to those of ordinary skill in the art when descriptions of exemplary embodiments thereof are read with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a counterweight assembly without a counterweight attached.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the counterweight assembly of FIG. 1.

[0024] FIG. 3 is a top view showing a stopper and balancing ring and an absorption ring.

[0025] FIG. 4 is a part of the counterweight assembly depicting the arrangement of the absorption ring, the adapter pole, and the inner adapter.

[0026] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the counterweight assembly depicting the stopper and balancing ring, the absorption ring, the adapter pole, and the inner adapter.

[0027] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the counterweight assembly depicting a first cover, the inner adapter and a main body weight. This resembles a regular counterweight from the outside, but completely different on how it works on the inside.

[0028] FIG. 7 is a perspective view depicting the main body weight with locking knobs, an Olympic weight and a locking collar.

[0029] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the main body weight with the first cover of the counterweight assembly.

[0030] FIG. 9 is an elevated perspective view of the first cover and the inner adapter of the counterweight assembly.

[0031] FIG. 10 is another perspective view of the first cover and the inner adapter of the counterweight assembly.

[0032] FIG. 11 is a bottom view of the inner adapter.

[0033] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the main body weight.

[0034] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the absorption ring.

[0035] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a part of the counterweight assembly.

[0036] FIG. 15 is a bottom perspective view of the main body weight with first cover.

[0037] FIG. 16 is an example illustration of the camera accessory mounted on the adapter pole.

[0038] FIG. 17 is an example illustration of the breadboard accessory attached to the main body weight.

[0039] FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the example illustration of the breadboard accessory with securing elements.

[0040] FIG. 19 depicts various assembly views of the counterweight assembly and inner adapter in different diameters.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0041] The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the invention, both as to its organization and method of operation, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the present invention. For a more complete understanding of the present invention,reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0042] The present invention relates to an adjustable counterweight assembly configured for astronomical telescope mounts. As illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the invention provides a solution to the common problem of varying counterweight shaft diameters across different telescope mount manufacturers. The adjustable counterweight assembly accommodates various shaft sizes while providing adjustable weight options, thus significantly reducing the need for multiple specific counterweights for different telescope mounts.

[0043] In accordance with various embodiments, the invention addresses the need for a universal counterweight solution that can adapt to any telescope mount shaft size while simultaneously providing adjustable weight configurations. Such that the adaptability makes the invention valuable for amateur and professional astronomers who maintain multiple telescope mounting systems.

[0044] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a counterweight assembly is disclosed as depicted in Fig. 1 (without counterweight for clarity). The counterweight assembly includes a main body weight 101 (shown in Figs. 6, 7, 8, 12, 15 and 19), also referred to as the counterweight, an inner bore adapter 104, a first cover 107, an absorption ring 112, an adapter pole 113, a locking collar 116, a stopper and balancing ring 117, a bushing 120, and an Olympic weight 122. All of these elements include a central hole aligned coaxially to receive the counterweight shaft bar 123, allowing the entire assembly to be mounted securely on telescope mounts with varying shaft diameters. Fig. 1, 17 and 18 depict a counterweight shaft bar 123 being inserted into the assembly via the central holes.

[0045] In one aspect, the main body weight 101 forms the central component of the counterweight assembly. It is manufactured from a dense heavy metal to provide substantial mass and functions as a primary counterweight even without additional weights attached. For example, the main body weight 101 has a predefined bore size of approximately 2.5-3 inches in diameter that runs through its center, though the exact diameter may be adjusted in the final design for optimal functionality. The main body weight 101 includes a plurality of first locking bolts 103 with corresponding first locking knobs 103 a and inserted via first bolt holes 102. The locking bolts are positioned to counteract each other when tightened, ensuring that the inner boreadapter 104 remains perfectly centered on the counterweight shaft bar 123. Such an arrangement prevents uneven pressure distribution and potential slippage during telescope operation.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the main body weight 101 is configured in various weight classifications while maintaining the same internal bore diameter. The standardization of main body weight 101 ensures that all inner bore adapters 104 are compatible with all versions of the main body weight 101, while being versatility for different telescope configurations. The main body weight 101 constitutes the counterweight mass, typically ranging from ten or more pounds depending on the specific model.

[0047] In an aspect, the inner bore adapter 104 are configured as interchangeable adapters as depicted in Fig. 19 to fit within the standardized bore of the main body weight 101 while accommodating different telescope mount counterweight shaft diameters. Each inner bore adapter 104 features a standardized outer diameter (approximately 2.5-3.5 inches) to fit securely within the main body weight's bore. The inner diameter varies across different adapter models to accommodate the most common telescope mount shaft sizes, including but not limited to ^-inch, %-inch, 1.11 -inch, 1.25-inch, 1.5-inch, 2-inch, and 2.5+ inch diameters.

[0048] Each inner bore adapter 104 includes a central hole 126 configured to: receive the adapter pole 113; align with the predefined bore size of the main body weight 101; and provide a connection point for the adapter pole 113 to extend from the main body weight 101.

[0049] In certain aspect, as shown in Figs. 9 and 10, the inner bore adapters 104 include second locking bolts 106 with corresponding second locking knobs 106a, configured with soft tips to secure and center the counterweight assembly on a telescope mount counterweight shaft, via the second bolt holes 105 (also shown in Fig. 11), without damaging the shaft. In preferred embodiments, these soft tips are made from brass, Teflon, or similar nonmarring materials to protect the telescope mount's shaft from scratches or other damage while maintaining a secure grip. In certain aspects, first and second locking knobs 103a, 106a employs either a metal bolt with an integrated brass tip end or, alternatively, a regular bolt that engages with a separate brass or Teflon push pin that is seated within the inner bore adapter 104, such that when the user tightens the locking knob 103 a, 106a to secure the counterweight to the telescope mount shaft, only the non-marring brass or Teflon material comes into contact with theshaft surface, preventing scratches and maintaining the aesthetic and functional integrity of the user's counterweight shaft 123.

[0050] In an exemplary aspect, referring Fig. 5, the inner bore adapter 104 includes a threaded structure, incorporating a first adapter thread 104a that engages with a first adapter pole thread 113a of the adapter pole 113. The threaded connection allows for modular expansion of the counterweight system and the attachment of additional components.

[0051] In an alternative embodiment, the inner bore adapter 104 can function as a standalone counterweight of approximately three to five pounds. The lightweight configuration is useful for applications requiring minimal counterweight, such as when mounting small telescopes or DSLR cameras 125 on telescope mounts as shown in Fig. 16.

[0052] The second locking bolts 106 of inner bore adapters 104 are configured for: centering the counterweight assembly on the telescope mount shaft; allowing fine adjustment of the counterweight position to achieve optimal balance; providing a secure locking mechanism to prevent slippage during telescope operation; and acting as a backup safety mechanism. Use of a single knob, tightening cause the adapter to lean at an angle. Thus, the present invention solves this problem by implementing multiple locking screws positioned to counteract each other such that the adapter remains perfectly centered.

[0053] In an aspect, as shown in Figs. 7 and 16, the adapter pole 113 extends from the main body weight 101 and serves as the mounting point for additional weights and accessories. As discussed earlier, referring Fig. 5, the first adapter pole thread 113a is configured to engage with the first adapter thread 104a of the inner bore adapter 104 to create a secure connection between these components. In certain aspect, the adapter pole 113 includes a plurality of rail guides 114, as shown in Fig. 2, which are configured to engage with the notches 121 of the bushing 120 (as clearly depicted in Fig. 4) to prevent rotational movement of the Olympic weights 122. The rail guides 114, typically three or more in number extend along the length of the pole and ensure that weights remain properly aligned without rotation.

[0054] In some aspects, the adapter pole 113 includes a plurality of adapter pole holes 115 disposed on multiple sides for attachment of external accessories. These holes are positioned at different orientations — typically on three or more sides of the pole — to accommodate various accessories and mounting configurations. The holes are threaded to acceptboth standard photographic mount screws (%" / M6) and larger mounting bolts (M8) for providing compatibility with a wide range of astronomical and photographic equipment.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, the adapter pole 113 is configured with sufficient length to accommodate multiple Olympic weights 122, as shown in Fig. 14, or accessories, as shown in Fig. 16, for precise weight adjustment to balance telescope systems of various sizes. In one aspect, the stopper and balancing ring 117 is configured with a plurality of stopper and balancing ring holes 118 for receiving counter screws 119 as shown in Figs. 2 and 3. The counter screws 119 provide both securing and adjusting position capabilities along the adapter pole 113. The counter screws 119 are configured to secure the stopper and balancing ring 117 to the adapter pole 113 and function as a secondary stopping mechanism in the event of locking collar 116 failure. Such that the safety of the assembly is enhanced during telescope operation. The counter screws 119 also help balance the assembly and protect the Olympic weights 122 from slippage, providing an important safety feature for the entire system. In an exemplary embodiment, the stopper and balancing ring 117 is securely positioned at the top of the adapter pole 113, serving as a fixed stopper to prevent Olympic weights from slipping while ensuring proper centering.

[0056] In one aspect, the bushing 120 is positioned on one end of the adapter pole 113 above the main body weight 101. The bushing 120 is made from a rubber-like material configured to expand under compression to securely hold additional weights. When the locking collar 116 is tightened, it compresses the bushing 120, causing it to expand outward against the inner surface of the Olympic weight 122, creating a firm, non-slip connection. As shown in Fig.13, the bushing 120 includes notches 121 configured to prevent rotational movement of the Olympic weight 122 and to hold the Olympic weight 122 snugly secure. The notches 121 align with the rail guides 114 on the adapter pole 113, and create a keyed system that prevents weights from rotating out of position during telescope operation.

[0057] In preferred embodiments, the bushing 120 is manufactured from a durable, compression-resistant rubber-like material that maintains its elastic properties over extended use. The bushing 120 may incorporate both rubber-like materials and reinforcing elements made from metal, plastic, or other suitable materials to enhance durability while maintaining the compressibility required for proper function.

[0058] In an exemplary embodiment, the assembly accommodates standard the Olympic weight 122 comprising having a central hole configured to fit around a central part of the bushing 120, thereby allows astronomers to use readily available Olympic weights 122 to adjust the total mass of the counterweight assembly, eliminating the need for expensive, proprietary weights. In one aspect, the Olympic weights 122 slide over the bushing 120 and adapter pole 113 and are secured in place by the expansion of the bushing 120 when compressed by the locking collar 116. The notched design of the bushing 120 prevents the Olympic weights 122 from rotating, ensuring they remain properly aligned during telescope operation.

[0059] The use of standard Olympic weights 122 provides enhanced flexibility in adjusting the total counterweight mass to balance different telescope configurations. Astronomers can add or remove weights as needed based on their specific equipment setup, thus making the assembly highly adaptable to varying requirements.

[0060] In certain aspect, referring Fig. 1, a locking collar 116 is utilized to compress and secure the Olympic weight 122 on the adapter pole 113. When tightened, the collar compresses the bushing 120, causing it to expand and grip the inner surface of the Olympic weight's central hole. The compression mechanism of collar creates a secure connection that prevents weights from shifting or slipping during telescope operation. The locking collar 116 may be a commercially available component rather than a custom-manufactured part of the invention. The collar is selected for its optimal compression characteristics and durability. When pushed downward to lock the Olympic weight (s) 122, the collar applies even pressure to the bushing 120, ensuring a secure fit without damaging the components.

[0061] In one aspect, the absorption ring 112 is positioned adjacent to the stopper and balancing ring 117 to prevent slippage of weights. The absorption ring 112 is configured as a rubber-like ring that provides additional friction and stability to the weight arrangement, and serves as a backup safety measure in case the Olympic weights 122 begin to slip. The absorption ring 112 creates an additional point of friction to prevent unintended movement of weights during telescope operation.

[0062] Referring Fig. 6, the first cover 107 is configured to attach to the inner bore adapter 104 via third bolt holes 108 and third locking bolts 109. The first cover 107 secures the inner bore adapter 104 to the main body weight 101 and functions as a weight plate, thus adding additional mass. The main body weight 101 serves as the primary mass for balancing thetelescope system, with first bolt holes 102 allowing for secure fastening. While the assembly resembles a conventional counterweight externally, its internal mechanism provides enhanced adaptability and stability for different counterweight shaft diameters. In various aspects, the components of the counterweight assembly are configured to be easily attached or removed, thus allowing users to adjust the total weight of the assembly based on their specific balancing requirements. The modular nature of these components enhances the versatility of the counterweight system.

[0063] In an alternate embodiment, the inner bore adapter 104 can be used as a standalone counterweight without the main body weight 101. This configuration is useful for lightweight telescope setups or travel mounts where minimal counterweight is required. The inner bore adapter 104, weighing approximately 3-5 pounds, provides sufficient counterbalance for small telescopes or DSLR cameras 125 mounted on lightweight telescope mounts. When used in this configuration, the adapter can still accept the adapter pole 113 for mounting additional components or small weights.

[0064] In an alternate embodiment, the adapter pole 113 includes threaded holes suitable for mounting photographic equipment directly to the counterweight assembly. The holes are configured to accept standard !4" / M6 threaded fasteners commonly used in photographic equipment, as well as larger M8 threaded fasteners for more substantial accessories. This configuration allows astronomers to mount DSLR cameras 125 or other imaging equipment directly to the counterweight assembly, thus providing both balance and functional mounting in a single system. Many astronomers use DSLR cameras 125 in conjunction with their telescopes, and this integrated mounting solution simplifies equipment setup while maintaining proper balance.

[0065] For applications requiring the mounting of wider objects that exceed the diameter of the adapter pole 113, the invention accommodates the attachment of a breadboard 124. These breadboards 124 provide a flat mounting surface with multiple threaded holes for attaching various components. In this configuration, the breadboard 124 attaches directly to the inner bore adapter 104 or adapter pole 113 using the threaded mounting holes. This arrangement allows for the mounting of equipment such as Raspberry Pi mini-computers, control electronics, filter wheels, or other astronomical accessories that require a stable mounting platform.

[0066] The breadboard 124 can extend beyond the diameter of the main body weight 101, providing a substantial mounting area without compromising the balance of the telescope system. This configuration is useful for astrophotography and remote observatory applications where multiple electronic components must be mounted near the telescope.

[0067] In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a method of assembling and operating the adjustable counterweight assembly (discussed in earlier embodiments) is disclosed. The adjustable counterweight assembly is assembled by initially selecting the appropriate inner bore adapter 104 that matches the diameter of the telescope mount's counterweight shaft. The inner bore adapter 104 is inserted into the predefined bore size of the main body weight 101. The first cover 107 is attached to secure the inner bore adapter 104 in place using the third locking bolts 109 through the third bolt holes 108.

[0068] For configurations requiring additional weight, the adapter pole 113 is threaded into the first adapter thread 104a of the inner bore adapter 104. The stopper and balancing ring 117 is positioned on the adapter pole 113 and secured with counter screws 119.

[0069] The bushing 120 is placed on the upper end of the adapter pole 113, and Olympic weights 122 can be added as needed to achieve the desired balance. The absorption ring 112 is positioned to provide additional slip protection. The locking collar 116 is then tightened to compress the bushing 120 and secure the Olympic weights 122 in place.

[0070] The assembled counterweight is then slid onto the telescope mount's counterweight shaft, and the second locking bolts 106 are tightened to secure the assembly to the shaft. The soft tips on these locking bolts prevent damage to the telescope mount's shaft 123 while providing a secure connection. The multiple locking bolts are adjusted to ensure the counterweight remains centered on the shaft 123 or, if necessary, positioned at a slight angle to achieve optimal balance for the specific telescope configuration.

[0071] For configurations involving accessory mounting, the appropriate accessories are attached to the adapter pole 113 using the adapter pole holes 115. These attachments can include cameras 125, electronic equipment, guide scopes, or other astronomical accessories. For broader mounting requirements, a breadboard 124 can be attached to the assembly, providing a platform for multiple accessories, thereby achieving complex astrophotography setups that require multiple components to be mounted near the telescope.

[0072] The adjustable counterweight assembly provides several significant advantages over conventional telescope counterweights:

[0073] Universal compatibility with various telescope mount shaft diameters through interchangeable inner bore adapters 104, thus eliminating the need to purchase multiple manufacturer-specific counterweights; adjustable weight configuration using standard Olympic weights 122, thus providing fine-tuning capability for precise balance; enhanced safety features including counter screws 119 as a secondary stopping mechanism and the absorption ring 112 for slip prevention; ability to attach accessories directly to the adapter pole 113; prevention of rotation through notches 121 and rail guides 114 for stable operation; cost savings by eliminating the need for multiple manufacturer-specific counterweights; modular design allowing for various configurations based on specific astronomy requirements; and protection of telescope mount shafts through soft-tipped locking screws.

[0074] The present invention is beneficial for amateur and professional astronomers who own multiple telescope mounts with different counterweight shaft diameters. It also can be used in Professional Observatories. It simplifies equipment logistics while providing precise balance adjustment capabilities essential for astronomical observation and astrophotography.

[0075] While the preferred embodiments have been described in detail, various modifications and alterations may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, the main body weight 101 could be manufactured with different base weights to accommodate various telescope sizes and configurations, while maintaining the standardized bore size for adapter compatibility. The adapter pole 113 could be produced in different lengths to accommodate more Olympic weights 122 for larger telescope systems or to provide additional clearance for specific telescope configurations. Alternative threading patterns could be implemented on the inner bore adapter 104 to accommodate specialized accessories or to provide compatibility with specific mounting systems. Additional accessory mounting points could be incorporated into the main body weight 101 to expand the functionality of the system beyond counterweight applications. Custom weight plates with integrated accessory mounting points could be developed to provide additional functionality while maintaining the primary counterweight purpose. Electronic components such as balance sensors or position indicators could be integrated into advanced versions of the system to provide real-time feedback ontelescope balance and orientation. The modular nature of the invention allows for continuous expansion and adaptation to meet evolving needs in the field of amateur and professional astronomy while making it a versatile solution to the counterweight compatibility problem.

[0076] It will finally be understood that the disclosed embodiments are presently preferred examples of how to make and use the claimed invention, and are intended to be explanatory rather than limiting the scope of the invention as defined by the claims below. Reasonable variations and modifications of the illustrated examples in the foregoing written specification and drawings are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claim below. It should further be understood that to the extent the term "invention" is used in the written specification, it is not to be construed as a limited term as to number of claimed or disclosed inventions or the scope of any such invention, but as a term which has long been conveniently and widely used to describe new and useful improvements in technology. The scope of the invention supported by the above disclosure should accordingly be construed within the scope of what it teaches and suggests to those skilled in the art, and within the scope of any claims that the above disclosure supports. The scope of the invention is accordingly defined by the following claims.

[0077] This application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the present invention. Therefore, it is manifestly intended that this invention be limited only by the claims and the equivalents thereof.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An adjustable counterweight assembly for an astronomical telescope mount comprising:a main body weight having a predefined bore size;a plurality of interchangeable inner bore adapters of different sizes configured to fit within the main body weight and accommodate different counterweight shaft bar diameters;wherein the main body weight includes a plurality of first locking bolts with corresponding first locking knobs configured to secure the inner bore adapter to a counterweight shaft bar;an adapter pole having a first adapter pole thread configured to engage with a first adapter thread of the inner bore adapter;a stopper and balancing ring mounted on the adapter pole;wherein the stopper and balancing ring includes a plurality of counter screws configured to secure the stopper and balancing ring to the adapter pole;a bushing positioned on one end of the adapter pole above the main body weight; and an Olympic weight having a central hole configured to fit around a central part of the bushing;wherein the bushing includes notches configured to prevent rotational movement of the Olympic weight and to hold the Olympic weight snugly secure.

2. The adjustable counterweight assembly of claim 1, wherein the counter screws further function as a secondary stopping mechanism in the event of locking collar failure.

3. The adjustable counterweight assembly of claim 1, wherein the adapter pole comprising:a plurality of rail guides configured to engage with the notches of the bushing to prevent rotational movement; anda plurality of adapter pole holes disposed on multiple sides of the pole for attachment of external accessories.

4. The adjustable counterweight assembly of claim 1, further comprising a locking collar configured to compress and secure the Olympic weight on the adapter pole.

5. The adjustable counterweight assembly of claim 1, wherein the stopper and balancing ring includes stopper and balancing ring holes for receiving the counter screws,wherein the counter screws provide both securing and adjusting position capabilities along the adapter pole and secures Olympic weights in case of locking collar failure.

6. The adjustable counterweight assembly of claim 1, wherein the main body weight is made from dense heavy metal and functions as a counterweight independent of additional weights.

7. The adjustable counterweight assembly of claim 1, further comprising a first cover configured to attach to the inner bore adapter via third bolt holes and third locking bolts, wherein the first cover secures the inner bore adapter to the main body weight and functions as a weight plate.

8. The adjustable counterweight assembly of claim 3, the adapter pole holes and the inner bore adapter are configured to attach one or more accessory such as a breadboard and a camera.

9. The adjustable counterweight assembly of claim 1, further comprising:an absorption ring positioned adjacent to the stopper and balancing ring to prevent slippage of weights.

10. The adjustable counterweight assembly of claim 1, wherein the inner bore adapter includes second locking bolts configured with soft tips to secure and center the counterweight assembly on a telescope mount counterweight shaft without damaging the shaft.

11. The adjustable counterweight assembly of claim 1, wherein the bushing is made from a rubber-like material configured to expand under compression to securely hold the Olympic weight, and may further include metal components to enhance secure attachment to the rail guides.

12. The adjustable counterweight assembly of claim 1, wherein the central hole of the inner bore adapter is configured to:receive the adapter pole;align with the predefined bore size of the main body weight; andprovide a connection point for the adapter pole to extend from the main body weight.

Images