Integrated Sub Jib Crane Apparatus for Safe Single-Operator Camera Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional crane apparatuses for shooting require multiple people to operate and pose a risk of hand catching during up-and-down movement, necessitate separate remote controllers, and lack tally display functionality, especially for small-scale and versatile camera systems.
Innovation Solution
A crane apparatus with a built-in sub jib mechanism within the main jib, allowing parallel movement and reducing the gap between jibs, integrated camera controls, and a repositionable fulcrum for reduced weight and increased operational range, eliminating the need for a separate remote controller and providing tally lighting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional crane apparatus uses separate main jib and sub jib structures with exposed gaps, then the camera can be kept horizontal through parallel movement, but there is a risk of hand catching during up-and-down movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the sub jib mounting mechanism directly into the main jib structure, eliminating the exposed gap between separate jib components. The sub jib mounting arm rotates within the main jib body, merging what were previously separate structures into a unified design that maintains safety while preserving functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The sub jib mounting mechanism is nested within the main jib structure. The sub jib mounting arm rotates inside the main jib body, with the rotation axis concealed within the main jib. This nesting approach eliminates exposed gaps and potential hand-catching hazards while maintaining the ability to adjust and position the sub jib.
2Ease of operation
If multiple people are required to operate the crane apparatus, then the equipment can be moved and set, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The crane apparatus incorporates self-balancing functionality through an adjustable counterweight mechanism. The operator can independently adjust the counterweight position to balance the camera and jib configuration, eliminating the need for multiple people to manually balance the equipment. The apparatus serves itself by providing automatic balancing through mechanical adjustment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a separate remote controller is used to operate the crane from the weight side, then the cameraman can operate from the rear, but the equipment becomes extensive
Solution Approach 1:
The counterweight structure serves multiple functions: it provides ballast to balance the camera and jib, acts as a mounting platform for the remote controller, and offers a working surface for the operator. By making the counterweight multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate equipment while enabling operation from the rear position.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional cameras without tally display are used, then various camera types can be mounted, but there is no visual indication of which camera is selected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a tally lamp as an intermediary device that provides visual information about camera selection. The tally lamp is mounted on the crane apparatus and receives signals from the camera system, translating camera selection status into visible light indicators that can be seen by the operator and production team, thus compensating for the lack of built-in tally displays on various camera types.
Data Source
AI summary
A crane apparatus for shooting is provided that achieves good operability and does not catch the hand. According to the crane apparatus for shooting of the present invention, the sub jibs are configured to be built in the main jib or a gap between the main jib and the sub jib is configured not to expose to the outside, and the hand of a cameraman is not caught between the main jib and the sub jib.