Support Leg with Auto-Locking Latch for Fast Tripod Collapse
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera support devices, such as tripods and monopods, require time-consuming processes for setup and collapse, involving the unlocking and relocking of positional clamps, which can be physically demanding and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A support leg design featuring a primary leg portion, a secondary leg portion in movable engagement, and a latch mechanism that automatically locks the secondary leg portion relative to the primary leg portion when in the closed configuration, eliminating the need for reengaging locking clamps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If positional clamps are used to lock tubular members at desired positions, then the support leg can be locked at any length, but the setup and collapse process becomes time-consuming and physically demanding
Solution Approach 1:
The support leg system uses spring-loaded clamps that automatically engage with the tubular members when collapsed and can be quickly released using a button mechanism. The clamps self-adjust and self-lock without requiring manual positioning, making the system serve itself during the collapsing operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamps are pre-positioned at specific locations along the tubular members and are designed to automatically engage at predetermined positions. The spring mechanism is pre-loaded to provide immediate locking force when the tubular members are collapsed, eliminating the need for manual adjustment during setup.
2Stability of the object's composition
If positional clamps are used to lock tubular members, then the support leg can maintain its position, but the operation becomes complex and requires bending over to access clamps
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple clamp functions are merged into a single integrated mechanism. The release button controls all clamps simultaneously, and the spring-loaded design combines positioning, locking, and releasing functions into one unified system, simplifying the user interaction to a single button press.
Solution Approach 2:
A button mechanism serves as an intermediary between the user and the clamp system. Instead of directly manipulating multiple clamps located at different positions along the tubular members, the user simply presses the button, which transmits the release signal to all clamps simultaneously through the mechanical linkage.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple positional clamps are provided on tubular members, then the support leg can be locked at various lengths, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support leg is divided into multiple telescopic sections with clamps positioned at each section. Each clamp is an independent but identical module, allowing the system to achieve multiple length configurations while using standardized, simple clamp designs that can be manufactured and assembled efficiently.
Data Source
AI summary
According to the present invention, there is provided a support device and a support leg for supporting a camera or other device. The support leg includes a primary leg portion and a secondary leg portion. The secondary leg portion is in movable engagement with the primary leg portion for movement between an open configuration where the support leg is fully extended, and a closed configuration where the support leg is fully closed. A latch mechanism is further provided for automatically locking the position of the secondary leg portion relative to the primary leg portion upon reaching the closed configuration.