Adaptable Camera Support with Quick-Disconnect Clamp
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for securing optical instruments like cameras to structures, such as vehicles, are cumbersome and time-consuming, affecting mobility and convenience due to the variability in structural elements and the need for rapid attachment and detachment.
Innovation Solution
An adaptable apparatus comprising a monopod collar, quick-disconnect ball clamp, and adjustable clamp that allows for rapid and secure attachment and detachment of optical instruments to structural elements of varying shapes and sizes, utilizing a monopod collar with a resilient design and a quick-disconnect mechanism for easy reorientation and reattachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If an instrument is secured to a structure using traditional mounting methods, then stability is improved, but attachment and detachment time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting apparatus is divided into separate components: a mounting plate that attaches to the structure, a quick-release mechanism with separate latch and actuator elements, and the instrument interface. This segmentation allows the stable mounting plate to remain attached to the structure while the instrument can be quickly released through the independent quick-release mechanism, resolving the contradiction between stability and rapid attachment/detachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick-release mechanism incorporates dynamic elements including a movable latch that can be engaged or disengaged through actuation, and a spring-loaded release system that provides automatic engagement. This dynamic design enables rapid transition between locked (stable) and released (mobile) states, allowing the system to achieve both stability during use and quick detachment when needed.
2Ease of operation
If a monopod is used instead of a tripod, then mobility is improved, but support stability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate attached to the vehicle structure serves as an intermediary between the monopod and the vehicle. This intermediary provides a stable attachment point on the vehicle that compensates for the reduced stability of the single-point monopod support, while still maintaining the mobility advantages of the monopod configuration. The mounting plate effectively transfers the stability requirement to the vehicle structure rather than requiring a heavy tripod.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the instrument is frequently moved between locations, then adaptability is improved, but attachment reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate is pre-attached to the vehicle structure at various potential mounting locations before the instrument is needed. The quick-release mechanism is pre-configured with engagement surfaces and latch positions that ensure reliable connection. This preliminary preparation allows the instrument to be quickly and reliably moved between pre-established mounting points without compromising attachment reliability, enhancing adaptability for different shooting locations.
Data Source
AI summary
An adaptable camera support includes a quick disconnect, panning ball clamp connectable to an adjustable clamp. The relative angularity and separation of the jaws of the adjustable clamp are independently variable to engage articles of widely varying size and shape. The quick disconnect panning ball clamp includes a rotatable panning base and a ball element rotatable on axes at an angle to the axis of rotation of the panning base. Hinged ball clamp housing sections enable rapid releasing and securing of the ball element and an article attached to the ball element.