Camera Motion Control Device Using Rope and Pulley
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motion control devices for photography and cinematography are limited by the need for specialized tooth belts and fixed tracks, which are expensive and restrict the device's movement range and adaptability, making them inefficient and less portable.
Innovation Solution
A motion control device with a linear movement assembly using a drive pulley and rope, allowing for linear movement along a line, and integrated with pan/tilt assemblies, enabling operation with various support apparatuses like Jib arms, Slider dollies, Tripods, and Cable Cams, without the need for custom tracks or expensive tooth belts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If specialized tooth belts and fixed tracks are used, then the device can achieve precise linear movement, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of linear movement from the complex tooth belt and track system, retaining only the critical elements (rope and pulley) needed to achieve the movement while eliminating unnecessary complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive, specialized tooth belts with inexpensive, readily available rope that can be easily replaced, significantly reducing device cost while maintaining functionality
2Reliability
If specialized tooth belts and fixed tracks are used, then the device can achieve controlled movement, but the adaptability and portability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal motion control device that can be adapted to multiple support apparatuses (tripods, dollies, jibs, cable cams) through a standardized attachment interface, significantly enhancing versatility while maintaining reliable movement control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from fixed, rigid track systems to a dynamic, flexible rope-based system that can be easily configured and reconfigured for different applications and environments, improving portability and adaptability
3Stability of the object's composition
If fixed tracks are used, then the device can achieve stable linear movement, but the portability and ease of deployment are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the motion control system into separate, modular components (attachment mechanism, rope, pulley) that can be independently handled and assembled, greatly improving portability and ease of deployment while maintaining stable linear movement through proper component integration
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 device provides flexible, portable, and efficient image capture and camera motion control over extended periods, allowing for linear and axial movement, and can operate over any length without ground fixings, enhancing adaptability and reducing costs by using standard rope and existing equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a linear movement assembly including a drive pulley wherein the drive pulley is operatively associated with the drive mechanism; and a line; wherein in use, the line is wound around the full circumference of the drive pulley and the drive pulley is driven by the drive mechanism, such that actuation of the pulley by the drive mechanism causes linear movement of the drive mechanism and the camera attachment in a linear direction along the line
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is a motion control apparatus for a camera and methods of use of the apparatus. The apparatus includes a camera attachment and a linear movement assembly operatively associated with a drive mechanism. This configuration causes linear movement of the drive mechanism and the camera attachment in a linear direction along a line or pathway. The apparatus is used for capturing time delay sequences and allows for operation over any desired path length along the line. Further, the apparatus is portable and can be used with other camera accessories.