GB2620188A

GB2620188A - Mounting assembly

Info

Publication number: GB2620188A
Application number: GB2209677.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Lenihan Daniel
Original assignee: 3 LEGGED THING Ltd
Current assignee: 3 LEGGED THING Ltd
Priority date: 2022-07-01
Filing date: 2022-07-01
Publication date: 2024-01-03
Also published as: GB202209677D0

Abstract

A mounting assembly 1 comprises a base 10 against which a photographic device (e.g. camera) is placeable in use, the base comprising an engagement structure 15 arranged in use to provide engagement of the base with the support; a connector 11 engaged with the base in use and arranged in use to removeable connect to the photographic device; and an extension plate 20 securable to a side element 30, an amount of overlap of the extension plate and base being determined by the position in which the extension plate is secured to the base, the position of the side element relative to the base thereby being moveable. The mounting assembly is in the form typically called an L-bracket or L-plate.

Description

MOUNTING ASSEMBLY FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a mounting assembly for mounting a device to a support. This is typically in the form of an L-bracket, expected to be used with a photographic or cinematic device.

BACKGROUND

Photographers and cinematographers commonly mount cameras and other photographic and cinematic devices on supports such as tripods and monopods. While supports are typically provided with a tripod or monopod head and screw for direct mounting of the camera or other photographic device, the contact point of the support with the camera is small and there is an increased risk of the camera rotating due to the camera lens providing torque on the camera body and screw. Consequently, this shifts the centre of mass of the device on the support resulting in a loss of stability.

Mounting assemblies, such as base plates, provide a larger contact area between the support and the camera base, thereby reducing rotation about the screw by increasing the friction on the camera base and holding it in place once tightened. To further aid in the stability of the mounted device or provide additional functionality, base plates can be provided with side elements to redistribute the weight of the device to maintain the centre of mass above the support. An example of these mounting assemblies is an L-bracket, which are becoming increasingly popular with photographers and videographers.

An L-bracket consists of a base potion and an arm portion positioned at a right angle to the base portion to provide the "L" shape that gives the bracket its name.

Each of the base portion and the arm portion typically has a means for connecting to a support, which typically includes a quick-release engagement means. This is able to co-operate with a complementary engagement element on the support for easy attachment and detachment. The camera is securely mounted on the base portion of the L-bracket such that the arm portion extends parallel to a side of the device.

Photographers will often travel to several locations in a single trip, carrying multiple cameras with them when taking photographs. With cameras coming in many different shapes and sizes, often one [-bracket is limited to only one or a few models, such that the photographer will have to also carry more than one bracket. Photographers are, therefore, restricted by the storage space in their bag and are limited in the photographs they can achieve in a single trip. Additionally, an [bracket is difficult to store in a bag due to its "L" shape, which also imposes an additional risk of snapping or bending of the arm portion upon transportation if impacted by other items in the bag.

To address these desires a range of products have been developed to allow multiple cameras to be used with the one [-bracket. Such products can include L-brackets designs separable into individual parts. These allow the L-bracket to be deconstructed and stored in a bag, to then be reassembled on site, making it much less likely that the [-shape will be compromised upon transportation. This further allows for one or more of the components to be replaced if one becomes damaged or lost.

Some L-bracket products include connectors that join the arm and base, often comprising rod-shaped securing elements which allow the distance between the arm and the base to be adjusted in use. However, due to their thin rod-like shape, these components still risk being bent or damaged upon transportation and are easily misplaced due to their small size. Multiple rods, when assembling, are susceptible to misalignment which may result in the base and arm being non- parallel when secured in place. Further, when attaching and securing the [-bracket to the support, these securing elements may twist the arm or themselves twist causing the arm and/or rods to become misaligned with each other or the base. Other designs with similar connectors allow only for adjustment when the camera is not mounted to the base, such that the arm may not be in the desired position when the camera is mounted, thereby affecting its stability or effectiveness.

Moreover, various supports will require a different means of attaching the mounting assembly which may not always be compatible. A photographer who wishes to use a variety of supports may be unable to use a single mounting assembly for the different supports they wish to use due to incompatibility of the mounting assembly with multiple supports. Some base plates have been designed with attachments or shaped features to allow them to be compatible with a support. However, these typically only fit a single variety of support designed with the specific dimensions of attachment or shaped feature(s). When multiple supports are to be used, this expands the number of mounting assemblies a photographer is required to carry to be able to make use of each.

There is therefore a need for a product that addresses at least some of the above problems.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

According to a first aspect there is provided a mounting assembly for (i.e. suitable for) mounting a photographic device to a support, the mounting assembly comprising: a base against which the photographic device is placeable in use, the base comprising an engagement structure arranged in use to provide engagement of the base with the support; a connector engaged with the base in use and arranged in use to removably connect to the photographic device; and an extension plate (or compatible accessory) securable to the base in a plurality of positions and removably securable to a side element, an amount of overlap of the extension plate and base being determined by the position in which the extension plate is secured to the base, the position of the side element relative to the base thereby being movable.

The inclusion of an extension plate reduces the torque, or twisting force, on a side element or on the base when assembling and using the mounting assembly. Additionally, the extension plate is easy to align with the other component, minimising the likelihood of breaking or bending the mounting assembly when assembling and in use. Additionally, the extension plate may be attachable to a side element to maximise the usefulness of the base assembly. The side element may be one or more of a variety of accessories or structural components including an arm, a handle or a cage. Further, the mounting assembly is suitable for use with various cameras and can be disassembled and easily stacked. This increases the photographer's ability to pack away the assembly in a bag or holdall for transportation with a reduced risk of damage to the components. Similarly, this allows a reduction in packaging used when packaged for sale or shipping. This is because the mounting assembly is able to be provide in a flat, unassembled, configuration instead of in a typically bulkier or less space efficient constructed configuration. A minimised number of small components also reduces the risk of misplacing a component in transit.

The extension plate may have a longitudinal axis and the base may have a longitudinal axis which may be aligned with each other, and the extension plate may be positioned in a plane parallel to the plane of the base (due to the base typically being, generally, flat, and itself forming a plate). This allows the user to vary the position of the side element relative to the base along the longitudinal axis of the base making the mounting assembly compatible with various cameras of different widths. This also maximises the area of the mounting assembly in contact with the photographic device base thereby further minimising rotation of the device.

Alternatively, the extension plate may have a longitudinal axis and the base may have a longitudinal axis which may be offset with each other. This makes the mounting assembly compatible with cameras of various shapes, particularly those having a slanted camera base, a non-uniform camera base or cameras that require a means of support other than a flat base.

The base may comprise a first recess (the first recess being) shaped to receive the extension plate. In other words, at least a portion of the extension plate may fit within the first recess. To enhance how sturdy the connection between the base and extension plate is, at least a portion of the extension plate may be held in position by the recess.

Additionally, the first recess may be a bore. This may provide support and sturdiness to at least a portion of the extension plate when in any one of the plurality of position. This is due to the support being provided around the extension plate, such as around a circumference or perimeter or a section of the at least a portion of the extension plate. Typically, the bore may be a blind bore.

This may provide a stop for the extension plate and reduce the likelihood of material impinging on an end of the extension plate that could misalign or push the extension plate out of position relative to the base.

The mounting assembly may further comprise a second extension plate (which may be securable to the base in a plurality of positions and may be removably securable to a side element, an amount of overlap of the extension plate and base may be determined by the position in which the extension plate is secured to the base, the position of the side element relative to the base may thereby be movable). Providing multiple extension plates provides the base of the assembly with additional length to which it may extend, making the mounting assembly particularly compatible with larger camera models.

The extension plate may be securable at a first end of the base and the second extension plate may be securable at a second end of the base. Typically, the first end opposes the second end of the base (i.e. the second end is an opposing end to the first end). In other words, the extension plate may be located at a first end of the base and the second extension plate may be located at a second end of the base. The extension plate and/or the second extension plate may (each) have a longitudinal axis and the base may have a longitudinal axis which may be aligned with each other such that the base of the mounting assembly is extendable in both directions along the longitudinal axis of the base. As such, the versatility of the mounting assembly is thereby increase as it can accommodate larger cameras.

The mounting assembly may further comprise a plurality (such as two, three, four or more) of extension plates. The base of the assembly can therefore be extended in a plurality of directions, improving its versatility. Each extension plate may be securable to the base in a plurality of positions and may be removably securable to a side element, an amount of overlap of the extension plate and base may be determined by the position in which the extension plate is secured to the base, the position of the side element relative to the base may thereby be movable. Further, each extension plate may have a longitudinal axis aligned with a longitudinal axis of the base.

Any features discussed throughout the specification in relation to the extension plate are applicable to the second extension plate and to each of the plurality of extension plates. The extension plate may be slidable relative to the base. A sliding arrangement allows the connection between the arm and the base to be easily and more precisely adjusted. For example, such an arrangement allows a user to easily adjust the mounting assembly to suit the dimensions of a given device.

The extension plate may be skiable along an axis parallel to the plane of the base. The axis parallel to the plane of the base may be the same as the longitudinal axis of the base.

The extension plate may further comprise one or more guides arranged in use to direct sliding of the extension plate relative to the base. This allows for smooth, slidable movement of the extension plate and typically limits movement to only the directions allowed by the one or more guides. This assists in maintaining suitable alignment between the extension plate and base.

Additionally, the base may further comprise one or more slots, and at least one of the one or more guides is located in each of the one or more slots. This means slideable movement is typically limited to the direction or directions defined by the slots. Each slot and the guide or guides located in the respective slot provide an arrangement that Slows for simple alignment of the extension plate and base orientation. The guides may be permanently located in the slot or may be removable.

Further, the or each guide may be a screw. The screw used may be any type of suitable screw including, for example, a socket screw. Again, the screw may have any suitable head style for example a socket cap, a flat, an oval, a round or a hex head. Any head style may be used in combination with any drive type including a slotted, combination or square drive type. The above is relevant for any subsequently described screws of the mounting assembly. Use of a screw allows the guide to be a simple component that is easy to maintain and replace if needed.

The base may further comprise one or more locking members arranged (in use) to secure the extension plate when in any one of the plurality of positions. Once the user has adjusted and selected a configuration of the extension plate, the extension plate may be held in place by using the one or more locking members. This reduces undesired movement of the extension plate and provides the user with a simple mechanism to implement when deciding on the relative position of the extension plate and base.

When present, it is important that the one or more locking members are able to engage and maintain a secure hold of the extension plate. As such, additionally, the extension plate may further comprise a plurality of apertures each arranged such that, when the extension plate is in one of the plurality of positions, one or more of the plurality of apertures is able to receive (at least) one of the one or more locking members. The apertures may be holes in an upper or lower surface of the extension plate or may be through bores. The apertures may be shaped according to the shape of the received locking member, such that a close fit is established. Alternatively, the locking member may comprise a clamp or a jaw arranged to grip the extension plate and secure it in place.

Alternatively, the extension plate may comprise the one or more locking members arranged to secure the extension plate to the base when in any one of the plurality of positions. In this arrangement, the base may comprise the plurality of apertures, each arranged on the base such that when the extension plate is in one of the plurality of positions, one or more of the plurality of apertures is able to receive one of the one or more locking members.

The locking member may be a screw. When more than one screw is present in the mounting assembly, these may be the same screw type or may be different 30 screw types.

The mounting assembly may further comprise a side element. This aids in the stabilising the device by redistributing the weight of the device and mounting assembly to maintain a centre of mass above the support. Additionally, the inclusion of the side element may provide extra functionality or connectivity to the mounting assembly.

The side element may comprise at least one second recess shaped to receive the plate. This helps provide a sturdy connection between the side element and extension plate by the side element holding the extension plate in position. Alternatively, the extension plate may comprise the second recess shaped to receive the side element, and instead, holds the side element in position. When more than one second recess is present on the side element, the side element may be positioned in different orientations relative to the base.

Additionally, the second recess may be a bore. This allows for a more secure connection by limiting relative movement more than could potentially be achieved with an open recess. The bore may typically be a through bore. This allows minimum extension of the extension plate when the side element is connected to the extension plate. Additionally, by the second recess being a through bore, it allows the extension plate to pass through the side element with an end at least be flush with a surface of the side element distal to the surface from which the extension plate passes into bore, restricting the ability for the side element to twist outward from the end of the extension plate. Further, should twisting occur, there will be even distribution of the side element impinging on the extension plate around the pivot point, which would not be the case if the bore was a blind bore.

The extension plate may be removably securable to the side element at an end of the plate. The side element being removable allows it to be removed from the mounting assembled and stored separately. This allows for safer storage of the side element, as opposed to a side element fixed to the assembly, possibly providing an 'L' shape, which likely will break upon transportation. Positioning the side element at the end of the extension plate maximises the distance between the side element and the base when the extension plate is secured at a maximum extension position, thereby providing a versatile mounting assembly which can be adjusted for use with many different devices.

The side element may comprise an attachment means arranged to provide engagement of the side element with the extension plate. The attachment means provides a sturdier connection between the extension plate and the side element.

The attachment means may be positioned proximal to the second recess, when present, and arranged to aid with holding the extension plate in plate in the recess. Alternatively, the extension plate may comprise an attachment means arranged to provide engagement between the extension plate and the side element. There may be a plurality of attachment means arranged on the side element or extension plate causing the side element to have different orientations relative to the base by each respective attachment means.

The attachment means may be one or more screws.

The side element may be an arm, the mounting assembly thereby providing an L-bracket when the side element is secured to the extension plate. Preferably, the arm may be orientated at a right angle relative to the extension plate. Providing an [-bracket improves the stability of the device when mounted on the support by shifting the centre of mass of the device. Further, [-brackets allow an easy and controlled configuration of the device between different orientations on the support and may also retain the camera sensor and/or lens centre position, which in tum retains the focal plane, leading to an improved quality of photograph. Moving between base and side aspects should also retain the horizon relative to the camera or lens.

The arm may be a plate having a C-shape provided by an aperture in the plate, the arm thereby having an opening in a side. This allows a cable with a right-angle connector to be connected to a camera mounted on the [-bracket while the camera is mounted to the bracket.

Additionally, the arm may have a plurality of attachment means arranged to attach the arm to the extension plate, causing the opening to have a different orientation relative to the base plate when the arm is connected to the base by each respective attachment means. The opening in the arm portion provides, in use, access to the device even when the device is fully mounted on the mounting assembly.

The mounting assembly may further comprise a docking member removably securable to the base and having a shape arranged to provide engagement with the support. The docking member may be removed from the assembly when transporting, making it less likely to be damaged. Further, this reduces the need for multiple mounting assemblies to be carried for use with supports comprising different engagement means, thereby making mounting assembly more versatile and provides the ability for the docking member to be swapped or replaced. A removable docking means reduces damage, such a scratching, to the main body of the assembly that may occur from docking and undocking of the assembly with the support.

The docking member may be secured to the base by the connector. This minimises the parts required of the mounting assembly.

The shape of the docking member may comprise a foot with a surface shaped to engage with a support. Many supports, such as tripods or monopods, comprise a structure shaped to receive a foot, making the docking member compatible with multiple supports, providing a versatile mounting assembly.

The surface of the foot may be only a single surface or may be at least one surface, such as a plurality of surfaces, including two surfaces, three, four, five, six or more surfaces. Typically, the surface of the foot may be defined by at least two sides shaped to engage with the support. This allows for the user to select the orientation of with which the dock is able to be engaged and for that orientation to remain fixed once the mounting assembly is engaged with the support.

Alternatively, the docking member may be shaped to engagement with a clip or holster style product.

The base may further comprise a third recess arranged in use to receive at least a portion of the docking member. This provides a strong connection between the base and the docking member by the base holding the docking member in place. Further the third recess and docking member may have complementary shapes arranged in use to limit rotation of the docking member relative to the base.

Additionally, the third recess and the first recess may be non-overlapping. This allows each recess to have a shape tailored to hold their intended components i.e. the extension plate and the docking member. This also means the intended components will not contact each other when in their respective recesses, thereby reducing the risk of damage to either component, According to a second aspect, there is provided a kit of parts for a mounting assembly suitable for mounting a photographic device to a support, the kit comprising: a base against which the photographic device is placeable in use, the base comprising an engagement structure arranged in use to provide engagement of the base with the support; a connector engagable with the base in use and arranged in use to removably connect to the photographic device; and an extension plate securable to the base in a plurality of positions and removably securable to a side element, an amount of overlap of the extension plate and base being determined by the position in which the extension plate is secured to the base, the position of the side element relative to the base thereby being movable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

An example mounting assembly is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying figures, in which: Figure 1 schematically illustrates an example mounting assembly in an assembled configuration; Figure 2A schematically illustrates an example mounting assembly in a first configuration; Figure 2B schematically illustrates an example mounting assembly in a second configuration; Figure 2C schematically illustrates another example mounting assembly in a third configuration; Figure 3 schematically illustrates an example mounting assembly in an assembled configuration; Figure 4 schematically illustrates an example mounting assembly in an assembled configuration; Figure 5 schematically illustrates a further example mounting assembly in an assembled configuration; Figure 6 schematically illustrates another example mounting assembly in an assembled configuration; Figure 7 schematically illustrates an example mounting assembly in an assembled configuration including a docking member; Figure 8 schematically illustrates the docking member in an unassembled configuration; Figure 9 schematically illustrates an example mounting assembly in an unassembled configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An example mounting assembly 1 is generally illustrated in an assembled configuration in Figure 1. The mounting assembly 1 comprising a base 10 and an extension plate 20. In the shown configuration, the extension plate 20 is secured to the base 10 in a partially extended position; however, the extension plate 20 can be securable to the base 10 in a plurality of positions. As shown, the extension plate 20 is secured to a side element 30 at an end of the plate 21, however, in other examples the side element 30 may be secured at a different location along the longitudinal axis of the plate 20, or may not be present at all.

Turning first to the base 10, an upper surface and a lower surface are provided on the base 10, separated by a pair of opposing sides and two ends, thereby forming a generally cuboidal shape. The base 10 is arranged to receive a device on the upper surface.

The base 10 comprises a connector 11 for removably connecting, in use, a device to the base 10. The connector 11 comprises a connector bore 12 and a securing element 13.

In the example assembly 1 shown in Figure 1, the base 10 is provided with more than one connector bores 12. This equips the user with greater flexibility as to the position at which a device may be mounted to the base 10. For example, the connector bore 12 to be used may be chosen depending on the dimensions of the device being secured to the base 10.

In the example shown in Figure 1, each connector bore 12 or the plurality of connector bores is provided by a slot in the base 10. The slot passes across the base, orientated with a longitudinal axis that intersects with the sides of the base. There is a separation between the slots with one slot being closer to one end of the base than the other. In other examples there may only be a single slot, or there may be three or more, instead of the two slots shown in the example of Figure 1.

The securing element 13 can be a threaded bolt. This is typically a 1/4 inch of 3/8 inch screw, which are a standard size for a camera mounting nuts that at provided to a 1/4-20 UNC or 3/8-16 UNC standard. The securing element is, in use, arranged through the connector bore 12 to engage with a threaded surface on a device, allowing securing of the base 10 to the device.

Once threaded through the connector bore 12 into which it is fitted, the securing element 13 and connector bore are cooperatively shaped so as to allow the securing element to move along the length of the slot providing the connector bore. This allows any photographic device to which the securing element is threaded to be positioned as desired relative to the base 10 within the limits of the slot.

By having multiple connector bores 12, the securing element 13 can be arranged through any one slot. This allows the position of a photographic device to which the securing element 13 is threaded relative to the base 10 to be further adjusted.

This is because multiple slots arranged next to each other provides different lateral positions to be chosen as well different forward and backward positions to be chosen (as is the case for the length of the slots). Additionally, this allows the position of the securing element to be chosen based on the position on a photographic device to which the securing element is threaded in use and desired location of that position relative to the base.

As described above, the upper surface of base 10 is arranged to receive and secure a device to the base 10. In order to ensure a safe and durable interface between the device and the base 10, the upper surface of the base 10 can be provided with gripping pads 14. In the example shown in Figure 1, a plurality of gripping pads 14 are provided and are distributed across a significant area of the upper surface. In other examples, a single gripping pad 14 may be provided on the upper surface, or a plurality of gripping pads 14 of the same or various shapes and sizes may be provided on the upper surface of the base 10. The positioning and/or number of gripping pads 14 can be chosen based on the model and/or shape of the device. The gripping pads 14 reduce the likelihood of device slip by increasing the friction between the base 10 and the device while also acting as a cushion to provide a soft interface between the device and the base 10.

The base 10 further comprises an engagement structure 15 arranged, in use, to provide engagement of the base 10 with a support. Typically, the engagement structure 15 of the base 10 comprises a pair of dovetail grooves on opposing longitudinal sides, such as grooves that conform to the Arca-Swiss format. In this case, by dovetail, we intend to mean that at least a portion of the cross-section has a trapezoidal shape.

The grooves can be used to co-operate with a rail or jaw having a complementary shape, to form a dovetail joint. In particular, the base 10 can be secured on a support by clamping the groove in a jaw member on the support. The support may comprise a Quick-Release (QR) mechanism to facilitate rapid attachment and detachment of the engagement structure to the support. Again, this is intended to be compatible with an Arca-Swiss type quick release system.

As mentioned, the mounting assembly 1 of Figure 1 illustrates the side element 30 and the base 10 being connected by an extension plate 20. Figure 2A through 2C illustrate how an amount of overlap of the extension plate 20 and base 10 is determined by the position in which the extension plate 20 is secured to the base 10. Also demonstrated in these figures is how the positioning of the extension plate 20 determines a distance between the side element 30 and the base 10.

Figure 2A shows the extension plate 20 secured in a first position relative to the base 10. The extension plate 20 is arranged such that the base 10 and a surface of the side element 30 are touching, in a minimum extension position. In the shown examples, the extension plate 20 has a longitudinal axis and the base 10 has a longitudinal axis, which are aligned with each other, and the extension plate 20 is positioned in a plane parallel to the plane of the base 10. The extension plate 20 can be repositioned along the longitudinal axis of the base 10 and re-secured by a user, as illustrated in Figure 2B, resulting in an increased length of the base section of the assembly 1 by virtue of the extension plate projecting further from the base. In other words, in this position, there is less overlap between the extension plate and the base, that when the extension plate is positioned as shown in Figure 2A. Consequently, the distance between the base 10 and the side element 30 has been increased. The extension plate 20 of Figure 28 can be repositioned again to secure the extension plate 20 in a different position, as demonstrated in Figure 2C, to further increase the distance between the side element 30 and the base plate 10. Again, this further decreases the overlap between the extension plate and base. Varying the distance between the side element 30 and the base 10 in this way makes the mounting assembly 1 compatible with various photographic devices of different widths or to provide a variable size separation between a side of a photographic device and the side element.

Although only three positions have been demonstrated in Figures 2A-2C it should be appreciated that the extension plate 10 can be secured to the base 10 in a plurality of positions, not limited to those demonstrated. Movement of the extension plate 20 between the positions shown in Figures 2A-2C, or any number of positions, can be achieved by slidable movement of the extension plate 20 relative to the base 10. The extension plate 20 can be slidably moved along axis parallel to the plane of the base 10.

In the examples shown in the figures, the base 10 of the mounting assembly 1 comprises a first recess 16 shaped to receive the extension plate 20. In the example figures, the recess is a bore 16 shaped to receive the extension plate 20, and is best illustrated in Figure 3. The bore helps provide smooth, slidable movement between the base 10 and the extension plate 20 when moving the extension plate 20 between a plurality of positions. In Figure 3, slidable movement is along an axis parallel to the plane of the base 10, which is the same axis as the longitudinal axis of the base 10. Therefore, the extension plate 20 can be repositioned relative to the base 10 without the need for complete removal of the extension plate 20 from the bore 16.

Figure 3 also demonstrates how, in some examples, the extension plate 20 comprises one or more guides. In Figure 3, two guides 22a and 22b are arranged in use to direct sliding of the extension plate 20 relative to the base 10. In this example, the base 10 further comprises two slots 17a and 17b, with one guide of the two guides 22a and 22b being located in each slot 17a and 17b respectively. In this example, each slot 17a, 17b is a channel with a length that is a portion of the length of the base 10, positioned in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base 10. The slots 17a, 17b are identical in length and arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base 10 but are positioned at different locations between the sides of the base 10. This arrangement of the slots 17a, 17b aids in guiding the sliding movement of the extension plate 20 along an axis parallel to the base 10 by preventing sideways movement relative to this axis.

In Figure 3 the sliding guides 22a, 22b are screws that have been inserted into the extension plate 20 perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the extension plate 20. The screw head protrudes from the plane of the extension plate 20 such that they engage with the sides and ends of the slots 17a, 17b. Engagement of the screws with the sides and ends of the slots 17a, 17b prevents further movement of the extension plate 20.

In other examples where the extension plate 20 comprises any number of guides 22a, 22b, there may be a corresponding number of slots 17a, 17b with one guide 22a, 22b located in each. Alternatively, there may be more guides 22a, 22b than slots 17a, 17b such that more than one of the guides 22a, 22b is located in each slot 17a, 17b.

If more than one guide 22a, 22b is located in one slot 17a, 17b, they may be located at different locations in the slot 17a, 17b, as to limit the range of motion of the extension plate 20. Using guides 22a, 22b in this way to limit the distance that the extension plate 20 can extend can provide greater stability as a larger portion of the extension plate 20 remains within the bore 16, even when in a maximum extension position. Additionally, using guides 22a, 22b to limit the portion of the extension plate 20 that can be located in the bore 16 prevents the side element 30 from contacting the base 10 when in motion, thereby preventing a collision of the side element 30 with the base 10 and causing damage to either of these components. Further, by having multiple guides, the ability of the extension plate to twist relative to the base when sliding is reduced, limiting the chance of the extension plate becoming jammed in the bore 16 providing the first recess.

In various examples, the base 10 further comprise one or more stoppers 18a,18b located one end of at least one of the one or more slots 17a, 17b. The stoppers 18a, 18b may be located at both ends of at least one of the one or more slots 17a, 17b. These stoppers 18a, 18b reduce the collision impact of the guides 22a, 22b with the ends of the slots 17a, 17b when the extension plate 20, and therefore the guides 22a, 22b, are in motion. This reduces damage to the slots 17a, 17b when the assembly 1 is in use and reducing the noise produced during the collision.

Stoppers 18a, 18b may additionally or alternatively be present along the walls of at least one of the one or more slots 17a, 17b. In alternative examples, the stoppers 18a, 18b shown in Figure 3 are the screw heads for the guides 22a, 22b (and which are shown out of place in Figure 3).

In the example shown in Figure 3, the extension plate 20 comprises at least one raised surface. The raised surface is, in this example, present along the whole longitudinal length of the extension plate 20. In Figure 3, two raised surfaces are shown either side of the extension plate 20 parallel with the longitudinal axis and present on both an upper and lower surface of the extension plate 20. The bore 16 on the base 10 has a complimentary shape to fit these raised surfaces. This arrangement further aids in guiding the direction of sliding motion of the extension plate 20 by limiting movement of the extension plate 20 within the recess or bore 16 in directions other than along the longitudinal axis of the extension plate 20. In some examples, one or more raised surfaces is able to act as the only guides with the guides 22a, 22b located in the slots 17a, 17b being optional features.

The base plate 10 shown in Figure 3 further comprises a locking member 19. The locking member is arranged in use to secure the extension plate 20 when in one of the plurality of positions. In the example shown in Figure 3, the locking member 19 may be located on the lower surface of the base 10 so as to not interfere with the interaction of the upper surface of the base 10 with the device. In other examples the locking member is located elsewhere, such as on a side or upper surface of the base.

As shown in the example of Figure 3, the locking member 19 can be a screw whose axis of insertion intersects with the axis of motion of the extension plate 20, which may be along its longitudinal axis. The locking member 19 can be tightened to exert a force on the extension plate 20 so as to engage and hold the extension plate 20 in position. In this way, the extension plate is being held securely in place, such that it will remain in position when the mounting assembly 1 is desired to be in a fixed position. The position of the extension plate 20 relative to the base 10 is able to be altered when the mounting assembly 1 is connected to a device or, alternatively, when it is not connected to a device. This can be achieved by untightening (for example, by loosening or removing) the locking member 19, repositioning the extension plate 20, and (re)tightening the locking member 19 such that the extension plate 20 is held in a different position of the plurality of position.

The extension plate 20 illustrated in Figure 3 comprises a plurality of apertures 23a, 23b, 23c each arranged such that, when the extension plate 20 is in one of the plurality of positions, one of the plurality of apertures 23a, 23b, 23c can receive the locking member 19. In some examples, such as the example shown in Figure 3, these apertures 23a, 23b, 23c are arranged along the longitudinal axis of the extension plate 20. In similar examples, the apertures align parallel to the longitudinal axis of the extension plate.

The locking member 19 can be tightened to engage with the inner surface alone of the apertures 23a, 23b, 23c on the extension plate 20 so as hold the extension plate 20 in position. The inclusion of these apertures 23a, 23b, 23c improves connection between the extension plate 20 and the base 10 by tightly encasing the body of locking member 19 in one of the apertures 23a, 23b, 23c, thereby holding the extension plate 20 in place.

The mounting assembly 1 optionally comprises a side element 30. The side element 30 may be any suitable structural component or may comprise a plurality of structural components. In the example mounting assembly 1 shown in the figures, the side element 30 is typically secured to the assembly 1 at a right angle to the base 10 and extension plate 20 such to form an [-bracket.

The side element may be an arm, as shown in Figures 1-4 and Figure 9. In these examples, the arm typically has a front face and a rear face separated by a side. Typically, the arm has an aperture through its centre, like a ring, and is generally rectangular in shape. This allows access through the arm for cables or to allow a user's fingers access through the arm. In some examples, the arm comprises at least one recess 31, and can, in various example include only a single recess. This allows the arm to receive the extension plate 20 in a various positions and/or orientations. This feature is particularly useful when the arm comprises a 'C' shape ring, such that the opening 33 of the 'C' may be in located in different positions relative to the base 10. As shown in the Figures 4, this example mounting assembly 1 comprises two recesses 31 located on two opposing ends of the arm. This positioning of the recesses allows the opening 33 to be arranged in four different orientations relative to the base 10: two with the front face closer to the base 10 and two with the rear face closer to the base 10. Typically, the recess 31 is a bore and more specifically a through bore 31. This limits relative movement of the arm with the extension plate 20 more than an arm without a recess 31 by providing a better connection between the two components.

To further limit the relative movement of the arm, the extension plate 20 in the mounting assembly 1 shown in Figure 4 is removably secured to the arm at an end of the plate 21. An attachment means 34a, 34b is arranged to provide engagement of the arm with the extension plate 20. The attachment means 34a, 34b is typically positioned proximal to one of the recesses 31. The arm may comprise more than one attachment means 34a, 34b. In this example, the attachment means 34a, 34b is one or more one screw, specifically, as most easily seen from Figure 3, two screws 34a, 34b. The attachment means 34a, 34b can be tightened to exert a force on the extension plate 20 so as to engage and hold the extension plate 20 in position relative to the arm. The extension plate 20 can comprise one or more apertures positioned to receive the screws and functioning in a similar means to the apertures arranged to receive the locking member 19.

The attachment means 34a, 34b, as shown in Figure 3, pass through bores in the arm. The bores each have an opening in an end of the rectangle formed by the arm. In other examples, the bores are located elsewhere, such as in a side of the rectangle formed by the arm Regardless, the bores are able to be threaded or un-threaded.

As shown most clearly in Figure 3, in some examples the arm comprises an engagement structure 32 that comprises a pair of grooves positioned on opposing longitudinal sides of the side element. The grooves are symmetric about their longitudinal centre. In other words, the "double-sided dovetail" grooves can cooperate with a jaw of a corresponding member on a support. As with the dovetail grooves of the base 10, in various examples, the engagement structure 32 of the side element conforms to the Arca-Swiss format for dovetail grooves or dovetail rails. This allows the side element to engage with a support in the same manner as the base, hence providing the mounting assembly 1 with the functionality of an L-bracket when constructed.

It should be appreciated that any above-mentioned features described in relation to the arm may be present on any side element 30 included in the mounting assembly 1.

Figure 5 shows an example mounting assembly 1 with a side element 30 comprising of two arms. The each of the two arms can be generally similar to the arm described above, the first arm in this example being identical to the arm described above, and the second arm comprising all of the described features apart from the engagement means. In other examples, each arm may comprise any combination of the above described features included on the arm. The first arm is located at an end of the extension plate 20 distal to the base 10 (i.e. at the end of the section of the extension plate that slidably extends from the base in use). The second arm is located on the extension plate at an offset position from the point at which the first arm is located separating the first arm from the base. Both arms are independently securable to the extension plate 20 using the respective attachment means 34a, 34b.

The side element 30 may additionally comprise a support plate 61. The support plate 61 typically has dimensions such that it can be received by one of the recesses 31 located each of the two arms, thereby being positionable in a plane substantially parallel to the extension plate 20. As such, the side element 30 forms a cage structure 60, which aids with organising any wires coupled to the device and provides additional support to the camera when the mounting assembly 1 is connect to the support via the engagement structure 32 on the side element 30. The support plate 61 can be secured to each arm using the respective attachment means 34a, 34b, and the two plates 20, 60 may be securable at a plurality of locations along the support plate.

In other examples, both arms may be identical such that a user may use the arms interchangeably thereby allowing the manufacturer to only make one arm type. The support plate 60 may be identical to the extension plate 20 such that the manufacturer only needs to create one model that is both a support plate 60 and a extension plate 20.

In the example mounting assembly 1 shown in Figure 6, the mounting assembly 1 additionally comprises a second extension plate 70. As shown, the extension plate 20 is securable at a first end of the base 10 and the second extension plate 70 is securable to a second end of the base 10. In this example, the longitudinal axis of the base 10, the longitudinal axis of the extension plate 20 and the longitudinal axis of the second extension plate 70 are aligned such that the extension plates 20, 70 lie parallel to the base 10. The second extension plate 70 may comprise any combination of features described above in relation to the extension plate 20.

The base 10 can comprise another recess shaped to receive the second extension plate 70. This recess may be non-overlapping with the first recess 16 in the base 10. In the example shown in Figure 6, the side element 30 secured to the second extension plate 70 is a handle 80. Having a handle 80 as the side element 30 can be useful when orientating the mounting assembly 1 and provides an easy means of carrying the assembled mounting assembly 1.

The example mounting assembly 1 of Figure 7 includes a docking member 40 removably secured to the base 10 and having a shape arranged to provide engagement with the support. As shown, the docking member 40 is secured to the base by the securing element 13 of the connector 11. In various examples, the docking member 40 comprises a foot 41 with a surface shaped to engage with the support. Typically, the foot 41 comprises an ankle section 42 and tapered section 43. The tapered section 43 projects outwardly and away from the straight ankle section 42. In other examples, the docking member is able to have a ball-joint instead of or in addition to the foot. Such a ball-joint takes the form of a sphere mounted on a pillar with a smaller diameter than the sphere on at least a part of the length of the pillar. This allows engagement with a Spider Holster type support.

As shown in Figure 3, the base 10, in some examples, comprises a third recess 50 arranged, in use, to receive at least a portion of the docking member 40. This is typically located on the lower surface of the base 10. In the example shown, the third recess 50 is shaped such that a first portion of the ankle section 42 of the docking member 40 is received and a second portion of the ankle section 42 protrudes from the base 10. Alternatively, the whole of the ankle section 42 may be received by the third recess 50 such that only the tapered section 43 protrudes from the base 10. The tapered section 43 typically has a generally square or rectangular shape.

The first recess 16 and third recess 50 are shown in the example of Figure 3 to be non-overlapping. In other examples, these recesses can overlap or connect with each other.

As shown in Figure 8, in some examples, the docking member 40 comprises a bore 44. This can have the same or similar shape and size as the connector bores 12. In this way, the bores 44, 12 can align such that the docking member 40 can be connected through the lower surface of the base 10 by the securing element 13.

Due to the shape of the docking member 40 in this example, it may be connected to the support in various orientations. For example, the docking member 40 may comprise four sides of the same dimensions. Alternatively, the docking member 40 may have two sets of sides of the same dimensions. In some examples, the tapered section 43 may have the specific dimensions of a chosen support, such as a holster.

Docking members 40 of various shapes and sizes may be compatible with one mounting assembly 1. When the assembly 1 comprises a third recess 50, these docking members 40 must all have a shape compatible with the third recess 50, however, the protruding section, or tapered section 43, may be any shape and/or size. To change the docking member 40, the securing element 13 may be untightened and removed from the assembly 1, the docking member 40 may be changed and re-secured.

The mounting assembly 1 can be seen in Figure 9 in an unassembled configuration. It can be seen from Figure 9 that the mounting assembly 1 can easily be assembled from a kit consisting mainly of the arm 30, the extension plate 20 and the base 10. It can be also seen that the components of the assembly 1 are easily disassembled and reassembled using the locking member 19, the attachment means 34a, 34b and the securing element 13.

In Figure 9, it can also be seen that, in some examples, the extension plate 20 has a flange or collar. In various examples this flange provides a separation between a portion of the extension plate that allows the plate and base to be secured together, such as by providing a portion that is slidable into a bore in the base, and a portion to which a side element 30 is removably securable. Some examples of the flange have the flange arranged in use to provide a stop limiting an amount any side element is able to slide on to the extension plate and/or an amount the extension plate is able to slide into a recess in the base.

In various examples, the base 10, each extension plate 20 and each side element 30 are made of a magnesium alloy (also referred to as "mag alloy"). When a handle 80 provides one or each side element, this may be made from a different material and/or may include a rubber like material or other material to enhance how easy the handle is to grip by a user. Any docking member 40 may be made of mag alloy or (recycled) plastic.

The base 10 is typically in the range of 10 centimetres (cm) to 25 cm in length, has width of around 5 cm and a thickness/height of about 1cm. Any arm provided may have comparable dimensions with the length translating to height when the arm is connected to the side element.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A mounting assembly for mounting a photographic device to a support, the mounting assembly comprising: a base against which the photographic device is placeable in use, the base comprising an engagement structure arranged in use to provide engagement of the base with the support; a connector engaged with the base in use and arranged in use to removably connect to the photographic device; and an extension plate securable to the base in a plurality of positions and removably securable to a side element, an amount of overlap of the extension plate and base being determined by the position in which the extension plate is secured to the base, the position of the side element relative to the base thereby being movable.
2. A mounting assembly according to claim 1, wherein the extension plate has a longitudinal axis and the base has a longitudinal axis which are aligned with each other, and the extension plate is positioned in a plane parallel to the plane of the base.
3. A mounting assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the base comprises a first recess shaped to receive the extension plate.
4. A mounting assembly according to claim 3, wherein the first recess is a bore.
5. A mounting assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a second extension plate.
6. A mounting assembly according to claim 5, wherein the extension plate is securable at a first end of the base and the second extension plate is securable at a second end of the base.
7. A mounting assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a plurality of extension plates.
8. A mounting assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extension plate is slidable relative to the base.
9. A mounting assembly according to claims 8, wherein the extension plate is slidable along an axis parallel to the plane of the base.
10. A mounting assembly according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the extension plate further comprises one or more guides arranged in use to direct sliding of the extension plate relative to the base.
11. A mounting assembly according to claim 10, wherein the base further comprises one or more slots, and at least one of the one or more guides is located in each of the one or more slots.
12. A mounting assembly according to claim 11, wherein the sliding guide is a screw.
13. A mounting assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base further comprises one or more locking members arranged to secure the extension plate when in any one of the plurality of positions.
14. A mounting assembly according to claim 13, wherein the extension plate further comprises a plurality of apertures each arranged such that, when the extension plate is in one of the plurality of positions, one or more of the plurality of apertures is able to receive one of the one or more locking members.
15. A mounting assembly according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the locking member is a screw.
16. A mounting assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a side element.
17. A mounting assembly according to claim 16, wherein the side element comprises a second recess shaped to receive the plate.
18. A mounting assembly according to claim 17, wherein the second recess is a bore.
19. A mounting assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extension plate is removably securable to the side element at an end of the plate.
20. A mounting assembly according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the side element comprises an attachment means arranged to provide engagement of the side element with the extension plate.
21. A mounting assembly according to claim 20, wherein the attachment means is one or more screws.
22. A mounting assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the side element is an arm, the mounting assembly thereby providing an L-bracket when the side element is secured to the extension plate.
23. A mounting assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a docking member removably securable to the base and having a shape arranged to provide engagement with the support.
24. A mounting assembly according to claim 23, wherein the docking member is secured to the base by the connector.
25. A mounting assembly according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the shape of the docking member comprises a foot with a surface shaped to engage with the support.
26. A mounting assembly according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the base further comprises a third recess arranged in use to receive at least a portion of the docking member.
27. A mounting assembly according to claim 3 or claim 4 and on claim 26, wherein the third recess and the first recess are non-overlapping.
28. A kit of parts for a mounting assembly suitable for mounting a photographic device to a support, the kit comprising: a base against which the photographic device is placeable in use, the base comprising an engagement structure arranged in use to provide engagement of the base with the support; a connector engagable with the base in use and arranged in use to removably connect to the photographic device; and an extension plate securable to the base in a plurality of positions and removably securable to a side element, an amount of overlap of the extension plate and base being determined by the position in which the extension plate is secured to the base, the position of the side element relative to the base thereby being movable.