Modular Camera Mounting System with Manifold and Ball Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current camera mounting systems require multiple setups and operators to capture multiple angles and views, which is costly and difficult to transport, limiting the ability to efficiently capture high-quality still images and video from various perspectives.
Innovation Solution
A modular camera mounting system comprising a manifold member, rods, ball joints, and clamps that allow for the configuration of cameras and photography equipment on a single tripod, enabling multiple cameras to be operated from different angles with a single setup, using quick release mechanisms and ball joints for flexible orientation and easy transportation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple separate camera systems are used to capture multiple angles, then all desired shots can be captured simultaneously, but the cost and transportation difficulty increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple camera mounting capabilities into a single integrated manifold structure that can hold multiple cameras and photography equipment. The manifold member provides multiple mounting points and configuration options, allowing one system to perform the function of what would traditionally require multiple separate camera setups and operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold member is designed as a universal mounting structure that can accommodate various types of photography equipment and cameras in multiple configurations. This multi-functional design allows a single device to capture multiple angles and views simultaneously, replacing the need for multiple specialized camera systems.
2Productivity
If multiple separate camera systems are used, then all desired shots can be captured, but transportation and setup become costly and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple camera mounting functions into a single manifold structure, the system reduces the number of separate equipment pieces that need to be transported and set up. The integrated design consolidates what would traditionally be multiple independent camera systems into one unified mounting solution.
3Device complexity
If a single tripod is used with multiple cameras, then costs and complexity are reduced, but the system must allow flexible orientation and easy transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold member incorporates dynamic elements including ball joints and quick release mechanisms that allow the mounted cameras and equipment to be easily oriented and repositioned. These dynamic features enable flexible adjustment of camera angles and positions while maintaining a compact single-tripod configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold structure is designed with segmented, modular components that can be independently adjusted and positioned. This segmentation allows each mounted camera to be oriented separately while maintaining their attachment to the single tripod, providing versatility without requiring multiple independent setups.
4Ease of operation
If equipment is designed for easy disassembly and transportation, then mobility is improved, but mounting stability and precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The quick release mechanisms are designed to be self-locking, automatically securing the mounted equipment firmly when engaged. This self-service feature ensures that while the system is easy to disassemble and reassemble, the mounted cameras and equipment achieve reliable, stable positioning once installed, without requiring complex locking procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A camera mounting system is provided. The camera mounting system includes a manifold member coupled to a camera mount device, such as a tripod. One or more rods may be coupled to the manifold member. The one or more rods provide a support structure to mount one or more of a camera, photography equipment, and audio equipment. The system may further include a ball joint and a clamp wherein the ball joint and the clamp operate to couple an additional rod to an end of a rod coupled to the manifold member.