Modular Camera Rig with Pivotable Tripod Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera rigs lack versatility and stability, particularly in transitioning between tripod and shoulder-mounted configurations, and do not efficiently accommodate various camera sizes and accessories.
Innovation Solution
A camera rig with a modular design featuring a support assembly, pivotable tripod plate, adjustable handle and counterweight systems, and interchangeable components, allowing for secure mounting of cameras and accessories, and facilitating easy switching between tripod and shoulder-mounted operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed camera rig design is used, then manufacturing is simple, but adaptability to different camera sizes and mounting configurations is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The camera rig is divided into separate modular components including a support assembly, positioning member, mounting bracket, counterweight assembly, and handle assembly. Each component can be independently configured, attached, or removed to adapt to different camera sizes and mounting needs (tripod vs. shoulder-mounted), resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity by organizing complexity into manageable segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The support assembly and mounting bracket are designed with universal attachment mechanisms that accommodate various camera sizes and types. The positioning member can be configured for different mounting configurations (tripod or shoulder-mounted) using the same basic structure, allowing one rig design to serve multiple functions and reduce the need for multiple specialized rigs.
2Ease of operation
If a rigid mounting structure is used, then camera position is stable, but adjustment and positioning flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning member incorporates movable and adjustable components that allow dynamic reconfiguration during operation. The mounting bracket can be adjusted to different positions and angles, and the counterweight assembly can be repositioned to optimize balance. These dynamic adjustment capabilities provide positioning flexibility while maintaining stability once the desired configuration is achieved.
Solution Approach 2:
The rig allows changes in key parameters such as the position of the positioning member along the support assembly, the angle of the mounting bracket, and the location of counterweights. By enabling parameter changes, the system achieves both adjustment flexibility during setup and stable fixed parameters during operation, resolving the contradiction between ease of adjustment and position stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If accessories are permanently integrated, then structural integrity is maintained, but versatility and ease of modification is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Accessories and mounting components are segmented into separate attachable modules rather than being permanently integrated. The mounting bracket and positioning member can be detached and reconfigured without compromising the overall structural integrity of the support assembly, as each connection point is designed with secure attachment mechanisms that maintain strength while enabling modification.
Data Source
AI summary
A support assembly for a camera rig. The support assembly includes a frame having a first end and a second end and a positioning member movably coupled to the frame. The positioning member is configured to removably secure a camera. A support member presents a mounting surface and is pivotably coupled to the frame adjacent the first end or the second end.