Dome-Top Tripod Hub With Above-Hub Tension Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tripod designs, such as Center-Tube, Flat-Top, and Bowl-Top, suffer from limitations such as large pack diameter, weight, ergonomic access issues, and inadequate control mechanisms, particularly impacting stability, compactness, and ease of use, especially in outdoor applications.
Innovation Solution
A Dome-Top tripod design featuring a tension control handle positioned above the hub, allowing for a smaller pack diameter, improved ergonomics, and two-handed control, with a convex dome structure replacing the concave bowl, enabling precise leveling and integration with tripod-heads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a Bowl-Top tripod design with a locking handle positioned below the hub is used, then leveling functionality is provided, but ergonomic access and ease of operation deteriorate due to awkward handle position and leg interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional Bowl-Top tripod design by repositioning the locking handle from below the hub to above the hub. This inversion allows the handle to be accessible without requiring the operator to reach between the legs, thereby improving ergonomic access while maintaining the leveling functionality. The handle is now positioned in a location that is easily reachable and operable without leg interference.
2Ease of operation
If a Bowl-Top tripod with sufficient leg spacing for hand clearance is used, then control access is enabled, but pack diameter and device size increase
Solution Approach 1:
By inverting the handle position to above the hub, the patent eliminates the need for wide leg spacing to accommodate hand clearance. The handle is now accessible from above the tripod structure, allowing the legs to be positioned closer together without compromising operator access. This reduces the overall pack diameter and makes the tripod more compact.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a Center-Tube tripod with an adjustable center column is used, then vertical adjustment capability is provided, but pack diameter increases due to required leg spacing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional center tube structure from the tripod design. Instead of having a central column that requires leg spacing for access, the invention uses a hub-based system where the locking mechanism is integrated into the hub itself. This extraction of the center tube eliminates the need for additional leg spacing, allowing the tripod to be more compact while maintaining adjustment capabilities through the hub mechanism.
4Volume of moving object
If a Flat-Top tripod without a center tube is used, then pack diameter is reduced, but additional camera head equipment is required adding weight and size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the hub structure with the mounting interface for camera heads and other equipment. The hub serves dual functions: it provides the locking mechanism for leg adjustment and simultaneously serves as the mounting point for attaching camera heads, tripods heads, or other payloads. This integration eliminates the need for separate camera head equipment in many cases, reducing overall system weight while maintaining the compact Flat-Top geometry.
Data Source
AI summary
Two embodiments of a Dome-Top tripod system adjust reactive force between a domed base and a concave top in two separate methods. Both embodiments feature two interfacing discs, one with a convex interface surface and the other with a mating convex interface surface, which friction lock to hold a payload in place. One features a translatable nut and shaft which then loosens or tightens the friction lock. The other version features a translatable drive nut which interacts with the top disk and loosens and releases the friction lock.