Reconfigurable dolly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dollies lack versatility and adjustability, particularly in supporting camera operators and equipment, as they often restrict movement and do not accommodate various rigging needs effectively.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable dolly with a circular base equipped with 360° swivel wheels, a standard Mitchell mount, removable base plates, and an adjustable seat system, allowing for flexible movement and mounting options, including a range of height adjustments and accessories for different applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed wheel system is used, then the dolly provides a fixed direction of travel, but it restricts movement flexibility and reduces mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing a hybrid wheel system that combines fixed wheels for directional stability with 360° swivel wheels for flexible movement. This allows the dolly to transition between fixed directional travel and omnidirectional movement depending on operational needs, resolving the contradiction between stability and adaptability.
2Device complexity
If a standard base design is used, then the dolly structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate various rigging needs and mounting options
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the universality principle by incorporating multiple mounting holes at various radii and angles, a Mitchell mount interface, and removable base plates that can accommodate different rigging configurations. This allows a single base design to serve multiple functions and accommodate various equipment mounting needs without requiring multiple specialized bases.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the segmentation principle by making the base plates removable and modular, allowing different sections of the base to be configured or removed based on specific rigging requirements. This modular approach maintains structural simplicity while enabling versatile accommodation of different mounting options.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the base plates are fixed, then the structure is stable, but it prevents viewing of marks under the base and reduces adjustability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by designing base plates that can be removed or shifted to provide viewing windows, allowing operators to see alignment marks under the base when needed. The base plates can be repositioned to maintain structural stability while providing temporary access for alignment and adjustment operations.
4Device complexity
If a non-rotating seat is used, then the structure is simple, but it restricts operator positioning and reduces adaptability for different camera positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by implementing a seat that can rotate 360° and adjust to multiple angles, allowing the operator to position themselves optimally for different camera positions and shooting angles. This dynamic seating capability significantly enhances operational versatility without adding excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the parameter changes principle by allowing the seat to vary its angular orientation and rotational position, enabling the operator to adapt to different operational requirements. This parameter variability provides flexibility in operator positioning while maintaining a relatively simple seat structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The reconfigurable dolly provides enhanced mobility and rigging flexibility, accommodating various equipment mounts and allowing for precise adjustments, offering the greatest range of height adjustment and lowest starting height among similar equipment, while minimizing noise and equipment damage.
Implementation Method 1
eight 360° swivel wheels that may be placed at 45 degrees apart from each other at points around the circumference of the base
Implementation Method 2
a tapered roller bearing installed in the base of an adjustable seat receiving tube to make rotation corrections when the base changes directions
Implementation Method 3
a Teflon bushing installed in the top of an adjustable seat receiving tube to assist in making rotation corrections when the base changes directions
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary aspects of the present invention are directed to a reconfigurable dolly that may include a base, one or more base plates, that may be removable from the base and nest within the base, and one or more caster wheels connected to the base to allow for movement of the reconfigurable dolly relative to the surface on which the reconfigurable dolly may be positioned. The base of the reconfigurable dolly may be configured to be coupled to a base receiving tube. The base receiving tube may be configured for telescoping receipt of a seat receiving tube. The seat receiving tube may be telescopically positionable within the base receiving tube. The seat receiving tube may be configured for receipt and retention of an adjustable seat.