Modular Camera Support Rail Assembly for Fast Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing utility equipment, particularly camera support equipment, lacks versatility, portability, and ease of assembly, requiring multiple types for different functions and posing challenges in setup, transportation, and location-specific limitations.
Innovation Solution
A modular utility system comprising interconnectable structural support components with male and female ends, modules for mounting and operation, and rolling components, allowing quick assembly and disassembly for versatile use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of specialized camera support equipment are used to meet various filming needs, then functional versatility is improved, but equipment complexity and the number of components required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal camera support system where a single modular dolly platform can perform multiple functions through interchangeable components. The system includes a base dolly unit that can be configured with different camera mounts, lighting attachments, and movement mechanisms to replace multiple specialized equipment types, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining functional versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The camera support equipment is divided into modular segments that can be independently selected and assembled. The system comprises separable components including the dolly base, camera mounting modules, lighting modules, and movement control units that can be reconfigured for different filming requirements, allowing versatility without requiring complete separate equipment sets
2Adaptability or versatility
If large and bulky camera support equipment is used to achieve various camera angles and motions, then functional capability is improved, but portability and ease of transportation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The heavy-duty camera support equipment is segmented into lightweight modular components that can be assembled on-site. The dolly system uses collapsible frame structures and separable functional modules that reduce individual component weight and size for easier transportation, while maintaining full functional capability when assembled
Solution Approach 2:
The modular components are designed to nest within each other when not in use. The camera mounts, lighting equipment, and dolly parts can be stored compactly within the base unit or dedicated carrying cases, significantly reducing transportation volume and weight requirements while preserving full functionality for various camera angles and motions
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of camera support equipment are used to provide filming options, then functional versatility is improved, but setup and breakdown time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses pre-assembled modular units with standardized connection interfaces that enable rapid configuration. Each module is designed for quick attachment and detachment, allowing filmmakers to switch between different camera angles and motion options by simply connecting different modules rather than assembling complex equipment from scratch, dramatically reducing setup and breakdown time
Solution Approach 2:
The modular components are pre-configured and pre-assembled during manufacturing with standardized mounting interfaces and alignment features. This preliminary preparation ensures that on-site setup involves minimal adjustment and connection steps, enabling rapid deployment of various filming configurations without time-consuming assembly procedures
Data Source
AI summary
A kit of parts for use in demountably configuring a variety of structural assemblies. A kit may comprise a plurality of cylindrical structural components configured for engagement with various types of male connector components along the sides or at the ends of the cylindrical structural components, there provided for demountable engagement of a female-end socket component at the end of another cylindrical structural component. The kit may additionally comprise components for one or more of roller carriage assemblies and/or one or more of sliding carriage assemblies configured for rolling or sliding movement along rail assemblies comprising a plurality of cylindrical, square, rectangular, or octagonal track components. The rail assemblies may be supported by bases comprising the cylindrical structural components and other components such as weight components, as well as threaded foot components or threaded caster components on which the rail assemblies can be adjustably levelled.