Trail Camera Mounting System with Extension Pole
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trail camera mounting systems require climbers to access high tree branches, posing risks and inefficiencies, as they lack remote installation and manipulation capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A two-piece mounting system utilizing an extension pole with corresponding fittings allows for remote placement and adjustment of a support and utility bar, including a universal camera mount, enabling secure camera placement and maintenance without climbing, along with optional features like lights and a hoist.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the camera is placed high in the tree to prevent theft, then security against theft is improved, but the difficulty of installation and maintenance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an extension pole as an intermediary tool that enables the installer to reach and manipulate the camera mounting system from the ground. The extension pole with manipulation fitting allows installation and maintenance without climbing the tree, thus maintaining security while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: a support structure attached to the tree, a camera mounting mechanism, and an extension pole for remote manipulation. This segmentation allows the camera to be mounted high in the tree for security while enabling ground-based installation and maintenance through the separate extension pole tool.
2Length of stationary object
If a ladder is used to reach high branches for camera installation, then installation height is improved, but safety risks and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The extension pole serves as an intermediary that extends the installer's reach to high tree branches without requiring physical climbing. This allows the camera to be installed at the desired height while eliminating the need for multiple trips up and down the ladder, significantly reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of vertical climbing to reach height, the invention uses a horizontal extension approach with the extension pole. This dimensional change allows installation at high elevations while remaining on the ground, eliminating the need for repeated vertical travel.
3Length of stationary object
If the camera is shimmed up the tree while carrying equipment, then installation height is improved, but operational safety and equipment security worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The extension pole acts as an intermediary tool that allows the installer to manipulate the camera and mounting components from the ground. This eliminates the need to carry delicate camera equipment up the tree, preventing damage and security risks while achieving the required installation height.
4Ease of operation
If remote manipulation capability is added to the mounting system, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The extension pole with manipulation fitting is designed as a universal tool that can install and maintain various camera mounting systems. The standardized fitting design allows the same extension pole to work with different support structures and camera mounts, adding remote manipulation capability without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The herein described invention is a camera mounting system where the user can safely install a camera high in a tree without having to leave the ground. The camera mounting system is comprised of a tree attachment, ball mount, and camera mount. The system is installed by using an extension pole with releasable capture means for installation and removal of the system. Once installed, a camera can be accurately aimed by using a laser attachment and standard laser pen light. This system is further comprised of a saw attachment, which can be used to clear branches from the installation area of the tree being utilized.