Telescoping Camera Support with Detent Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camera support systems, such as tripods, are cumbersome and difficult to use in situations like beaches, crowds, underwater environments, and for individuals with disabilities, as they require secure foundations and can be uncomfortable or impractical for self-portraits and capturing distant views.
Innovation Solution
A handheld camera support system with a base assembly, handgrip, and telescoping elongated support that allows users to secure a camera and position it at a distance using a self-timer or remote control, featuring detents to prevent unintentional retraction and potentially motorized for zoom functionality, made from non-corrosive materials for underwater use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional tripod is used to support the camera, then the camera can be securely positioned for self-portraits, but the device becomes cumbersome and requires a secure foundation that is not readily available in environments like beaches
Solution Approach 1:
The support device is divided into multiple telescoping segments that can be extended or retracted independently. Each segment contains detents that lock at specific intervals, allowing the device to be segmented into manageable sections for portability while providing stable extended lengths for camera support when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The support device transitions from a static traditional tripod to a dynamic telescoping structure that can adapt its length and configuration. The telescoping mechanism with detents allows the device to be dynamically adjusted between a compact portable state and an extended stable support state, resolving the contradiction between portability and stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the camera is held at extended arm's length for self-portraits, then the user can be included in the photo, but the body position causes distortion and the camera angle may not be sufficiently wide
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping support device acts as an intermediary between the user and the camera. Instead of holding the camera directly at arm's length, the user attaches the camera to the support device and extends it to the desired length, eliminating body distortion while maintaining the ability to capture self-portraits with proper framing.
3Ease of operation
If the telescoping arm is coupled directly to the camera, then the accessory can be used, but the desired position of the camera may not be obtained as the camera can only be angled about the axis of the mounting stud
Solution Approach 1:
The support device uses multiple telescoping segments with detents that can be locked at various positions along the length of each segment. This segmentation allows the camera to be positioned at multiple heights and angles by adjusting which detents are engaged, providing greater positioning flexibility than a single fixed mounting point.
4Reliability
If a secure foundation is required for tripod use, then the camera can be stable, but the device cannot be used in environments like beaches where secure foundations are not readily available
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping support device with detents creates internal mechanical stability through its segmented locking mechanism, eliminating the need for external secure foundations. The detents provide counterbalancing lock points that stabilize the camera at various extensions, allowing the device to function reliably in environments like beaches where traditional tripods cannot be set up.
Data Source
AI summary
A camera support assembly including an elongated support, such as a extensible support, which support extends between a base assembly and a handgrip, whereby a user of the camera may secure a camera to the base assembly and, while holding the handgrip, position the camera a distance away, which may be greater than arms length, to capture a still or moving image of the user, of an obstructed scene, or of hard to reach and/or unsafe areas.