Bistable Camera Securements With Snap-Fit Joints for Stable Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a demand for user-friendly, flexible, and adaptable camera support equipment that provides stable camera support for various environments and viewpoints, especially with the rise of digital photography and videography, but existing solutions lack versatility and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
The development of a securement device featuring a bi-stable spring band with embedded securement elements and a snap-fit ball and socket joint system, allowing for secure attachment to surfaces and objects, along with a support system comprising assemblable components with ball and socket joints for versatile camera and lighting equipment support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional camera support equipment is used, then basic stability is provided, but versatility and adaptability to various environments are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The securement device is designed with multiple functional capabilities: it can wrap around objects using the bi-stable spring band, attach to surfaces using embedments, connect to camera equipment via ball and socket joints, and provide stable support. This multi-functionality allows a single device to serve various purposes across different environments without requiring multiple specialized tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is divided into distinct functional modules: the bi-stable spring band for wrapping, the outer skin with embedments for surface attachment, the ball and socket joint system for connection, and the securement elements for fixation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while contributing to the overall versatility of the system.
2Reliability
If secure attachment mechanisms are added to improve stability, then reliability of attachment increases, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The bi-stable spring band utilizes dynamic mechanical properties to provide secure attachment. The band can transition between two stable states (wrapped and unwrapped), allowing it to automatically lock onto objects with firm attachment while enabling quick release by applying minimal force to trigger the state transition. This dynamic behavior provides both high reliability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The securement device employs self-locking mechanisms where the bi-stable spring band automatically secures itself around objects and the ball and socket joints self-lock into position. The embedments automatically engage with surfaces upon contact. These self-service features eliminate the need for complex manual locking operations, maintaining ease of use while ensuring reliable attachment.
3Productivity
If quick-release mechanisms are implemented for ease of use, then productivity increases, but stability during operation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The bi-stable spring band maintains stability during operation through its mechanical design that requires a specific threshold force to trigger the state transition. During normal use, the band remains firmly locked in the wrapped state, providing stable support. Only when sufficient force is applied to overcome the stability threshold does the band transition to the unwrapped state, enabling quick release. This dynamic stability ensures both operational stability and rapid deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The ball and socket joint system incorporates built-in friction and mechanical interference that provide inherent stability during operation. The joints are designed with tight tolerances that create frictional resistance to unintended movement, cushioning against minor vibrations or disturbances. This pre-built stability mechanism allows quick attachment while maintaining firm, stable connections during camera operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a stable and adaptable support system for cameras and lighting equipment, enabling quick attachment and detachment on various surfaces, enhancing usability and stability in different environments.
Implementation Method 1
a bi-stable spring band
Implementation Method 2
the couplers are dimensioned to provide a snap fit between said couplers
Data Source
AI summary
Unique securement devices, usable for example as tripod feet, each feature a bistable spring band encapsulated in an outer skin with a set of optionally magnetic embedments discretely spaced along the band, and a coupler at one end for attachment to a tripod leg or other component. Unique ball and socket joints employ both a snap fit and a secondary retention mechanism to reliably secure together various components, including said securement devices and tripod legs. One joint includes an externally convex and internally concave ball coupler for optional mating with either a larger socket coupler or smaller ball. One joint includes a stabilization sleeve for angularly locking the ball and socket joint. An elongated support, usable as a tripod leg for example, features threaded connection ports usable to either directly mount threaded third-party componentry, or to receive a threaded ball coupler by which socket-equipped componentry can be indirectly attached.