US20130168512A1 - Mounting Apparatus Using Ball and Socket Joints With Composite Connectors - Google Patents
Mounting Apparatus Using Ball and Socket Joints With Composite Connectors Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20130168512A1 US20130168512A1 US13/555,099 US201213555099A US2013168512A1 US 20130168512 A1 US20130168512 A1 US 20130168512A1 US 201213555099 A US201213555099 A US 201213555099A US 2013168512 A1 US2013168512 A1 US 2013168512A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- socket
- connector
- tripod
- connectors
- ball
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
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Images
Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M13/00—Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles
- F16M13/02—Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle
- F16M13/022—Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle repositionable
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M11/00—Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon ; Stands for scientific apparatus such as gravitational force meters
- F16M11/02—Heads
- F16M11/04—Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand
- F16M11/041—Allowing quick release of the apparatus
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M11/00—Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon ; Stands for scientific apparatus such as gravitational force meters
- F16M11/02—Heads
- F16M11/04—Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand
- F16M11/06—Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting
- F16M11/12—Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting in more than one direction
- F16M11/14—Means for attachment of apparatus; Means allowing adjustment of the apparatus relatively to the stand allowing pivoting in more than one direction with ball-joint
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M11/00—Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon ; Stands for scientific apparatus such as gravitational force meters
- F16M11/02—Heads
- F16M11/16—Details concerning attachment of head-supporting legs, with or without actuation of locking members thereof
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M11/00—Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon ; Stands for scientific apparatus such as gravitational force meters
- F16M11/20—Undercarriages with or without wheels
- F16M11/2007—Undercarriages with or without wheels comprising means allowing pivoting adjustment
- F16M11/2035—Undercarriages with or without wheels comprising means allowing pivoting adjustment in more than one direction
- F16M11/2078—Undercarriages with or without wheels comprising means allowing pivoting adjustment in more than one direction with ball-joint
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M11/00—Stands or trestles as supports for apparatus or articles placed thereon ; Stands for scientific apparatus such as gravitational force meters
- F16M11/20—Undercarriages with or without wheels
- F16M11/24—Undercarriages with or without wheels changeable in height or length of legs, also for transport only, e.g. by means of tubes screwed into each other
- F16M11/40—Undercarriages with or without wheels changeable in height or length of legs, also for transport only, e.g. by means of tubes screwed into each other by means of coilable or bendable legs or spiral shaped legs
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16M—FRAMES, CASINGS OR BEDS OF ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS, NOT SPECIFIC TO ENGINES, MACHINES OR APPARATUS PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; STANDS; SUPPORTS
- F16M13/00—Other supports for positioning apparatus or articles; Means for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
- G03B—APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS FOR TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS OR FOR PROJECTING OR VIEWING THEM; APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS EMPLOYING ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR
- G03B17/00—Details of cameras or camera bodies; Accessories therefor
- G03B17/56—Accessories
- G03B17/561—Support related camera accessories
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T403/00—Joints and connections
- Y10T403/32—Articulated members
- Y10T403/32008—Plural distinct articulation axes
- Y10T403/32032—Plural ball and socket
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T403/00—Joints and connections
- Y10T403/45—Flexibly connected rigid members
Definitions
- the present invention relates to connectors which interconnect into a flexible assembly, and more specifically to a connectors and assemblies using ball and socket joint connectors.
- Typical prior art ball and socket connectors are constructed out of the same material for both the ball and the socket. However, as most of the ball portion typically is under compressive stress, while most of the socket is under tensile stress, it may be desirable to use one material for the ball and another material for the socket.
- Certain types of plastics may be well suited for ball and socket connectors but be subject to creep under tension.
- a connector made from a composite of materials may allow the benefits of differing materials to be realized.
- the present invention is directed towards ball and socket joint connectors which, when interconnected, form a flexible assembly.
- Each connector includes a body with a first and second end portion.
- An external socket engaging surface is provided at one end of the body.
- the other end of the body has an internal cavity.
- the socket engaging surface of one connector is snapped into the internal cavity of another to interconnect the connectors.
- the internal cavity end portion may be of a material that is less subject to creep, and which may have high stiffness.
- the socket end portion may be made of a softer material that allows for sufficient deflection to allow for mating but is not as subject to creep as this portion is predominantly in compression.
- the ball and socket joint connectors utilize an over-molded strip around the outside of the connector to facilitate in their use for gripping.
- a mounting apparatus uses legs comprising the ball and socket joint connectors for support.
- FIGS. 1A-B illustrate an end view and cross-sectional view of a composite connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
- FIGS. 2A-B illustrate an side view and cross-sectional view of a composite connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
- FIGS. 3A-B illustrate an end view and cross-sectional view of a pair of composite connectors according to some embodiments of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of a plurality of connected connectors according to some embodiments of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a side view of a connector according to some embodiments of the present invention.
- FIG. 6 is an illustration of a tripod apparatus according to some embodiments of the present invention.
- FIGS. 7A-B are side and cross-sectional views of a body and interconnect portion of a tripod apparatus according to some embodiments of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is an illustration of a flexible arm assembly according to some embodiments of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an apparatus according to some embodiments of the present invention.
- FIGS. 10A-B are a view and cross-section of a main body of an apparatus according to some embodiments of the present invention.
- FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a ball and socket connector 10 according to some embodiments of the present invention.
- a connector 10 has a first end portion 12 and a second end portion 13 .
- a socket engaging end surface 14 is present at the first end 12 .
- the first end portion 12 is substantially hollowed out in some embodiments.
- the second end portion 13 has a body 16 with an internal socket receiving cavity 17 .
- the inner surface 11 of the an internal socket receiving cavity 17 is adapted to fit over the socket engaging end surface 14 of another connector 10 , or of another piece with a similar socket engaging end surface.
- a neckdown 15 separates the first end portion 12 from the second end portion 13 .
- a stop nub 18 acts as a mechanical stop to prevent over angulation and possible unintentional separation of a ball and socket joint connector pair.
- the first end portion 12 and the second end portion 13 may be of different materials.
- the socket engaging end surface 14 along with the rest of the first end portion 12 , may be of an ABS plastic.
- the internal socket receiving cavity 17 as well as the second end portion 13 , may be of another material, such as aluminum.
- the selection of differing materials may offer a variety of advantages. For example, the frictions between the two materials may be ideal for a particular use.
- the connector may be much stiffer than a connector made solely of plastic. In the case of a support structure made of a length of connectors, the stiffness added to each connector may greatly affect the stiffness of the overall structure.
- the use of a stiffer material in the neckdown region 15 may also lead to a substantially stiffer structure when the connectors are used in an interconnected assembly.
- Another distinct advantage of a composite connector may be that using a metal for the socket, which is primarily under tensile stress, as opposed to a plastic, reduces the likelihood over time of creep induced relaxation of the fit of the ball and socket. Also, if the ball and socket are ever disengaged, it may be that the plastic socket is more susceptible to permanent deformation, and the use of a metal socket may allow the connectors to be connected and disconnected in a manner that may not be suitable with all plastic connectors.
- the connector may be symmetric around a primary axis in some embodiments.
- the end surface planes of the first and second end portions of the connector may be perpendicular to the primary axis in some embodiments.
- the bulk of the second end portion 13 may machined from metal, such as aluminum.
- the internal mating surface 11 of the socket receiving cavity 17 may be machined to a desired roughness.
- a series of grooves 20 may be left on the external surface of the second end portion to facilitate the molding of the first end portion 12 over the second end portion 13 .
- a pin 18 may also be molded at the same time and of the same material.
- a grip strip 19 may be molded of the same material, or of a softer material, as desired. The grip strip may be added with a softer or more grippy material in a second molding process. Grooves or other structure may be present in the outer surface of the second end portion to better facilitate the adherence of the grip strip 19 to the second end portion.
- a flexible arm assembly 32 has been constructed out of a plurality of connectors 10 .
- the flexible arm assembly may include a gripping pod 31 on one or both ends in some embodiments.
- a connector 120 includes a gripping portion 122 .
- the connector 120 has a first end portion 125 and a second end portion 123 .
- a socket engaging end surface 124 is present at the first end 125 .
- the first end portion 125 may be substantially hollowed out in some embodiments.
- the second end 123 has a body 121 with an internal socket receiving cavity.
- the inner surface of the an internal socket receiving cavity 130 is adapted to fit over the socket engaging end surface 124 of another connector, or of another piece with a similar socket engaging end surface.
- a neckdown 128 separates the first end portion 125 from the second end portion 123 .
- a gripping portion 122 allows the connector to grip surfaces more readily.
- the gripping portion is co-molded into the connector body.
- the gripping portion is a rubberized compound.
- the gripping portion is a circumferential ring molded into the outer surface of the connector. The gripping portion may provide a higher friction interface when the connector is set upon or wrapped around an object.
- FIGS. 6 and 7 A-B illustrate a tripod apparatus 200 according to some embodiments of the present invention.
- a body portion 201 provides a base of support for three flexible legs 202 , 203 , 204 .
- the flexible legs 202 , 203 , 204 consist of a series of interconnected ball and socket joint connectors.
- the flexible legs are able to be flexed into a variety of positions and can be used to support the body portion 201 by forming tripod support.
- the flexible legs are able to adapt to uneven surfaces to allow the tripod to function in a variety of situations. Although three legs are used here for illustration, more legs may be present in some embodiments. As seen in FIG.
- the body portion 201 itself may have a series of interconnected ball and socket joint connectors within it, allowing for even more flexibility with regard to its mounting function.
- the ball and socket connectors may be constructed of a variety of materials as illustrated in earlier embodiments of the present invention.
- the body sockets 252 are equally spaced around the center of the body portion 201 .
- the body sockets are also flared at an angle relative to the ground (in typical usage). In some embodiments, the flared angle is 45 degrees. The flaring of the body sockets allows a different range of potential wrapping angles for the legs of the tripod.
- the tripod legs may still be utilized as in the case of a typical tripod.
- the range of motion of the body sockets and the connectors which form the legs still allow for vertical positioning of the legs.
- the body portion 201 retains the tripod's usual functionality.
- the flaring allows for greater bending of the legs in cases where the legs are used as gripping arms, such as when wrapped around vertical bars and the like.
- the body portion 501 adds to the range of positions and to the types of uses that the apparatus may entertain.
- the flexible legs are illustrated as functioning legs in FIG. 6 , the legs are of sufficient flexibility that the may be used to wrap around items such as bars or other objects in order to fasten the tripod apparatus to objects that would not be suitable for mounting of a typical tripod. In conjunction with the gripping portion, this allows the tripod apparatus to be fastened to a variety of objects. For example, when used to position a digital camera, the legs may wrap around a vertical gate rail, allowing the mounting of the camera for a photo taking opportunity not previously available.
- the body portion 201 is connected to an interconnect portion 205 .
- a clip 220 is removably fastened to the interconnect portion 205 .
- the clip 220 may have a threaded post adapted to fit into a camera or other device in some embodiments.
- the flexible legs 202 , 203 , 204 may use connectors that have a co-molded gripping portion 208 .
- the gripping portions 208 may allow for use of the tripod in a variety of ways, including wrapping of the legs around a post or other object.
- the flexible legs may be terminated with a gripping pod 207 .
- the gripping pod 207 may be fully molded into the cavity of the connector.
- the terminal connector of each leg has a socket engaging end surface on its first end and a suction cup on its second end. The suctions cups may allow for a secure attachment of the tripod apparatus 200 to a variety of surfaces.
- the interconnect portion 205 is adapted to receive a clip 220 .
- the clip 220 may have rails adapted to slide into slots within the interconnect portion 205 .
- the clip 220 may have recess 226 adapted to be filled by a tab 225 on a spring loaded lever 222 .
- the clip is removably attached to the interconnect portion 205 and may be released by pressing on the lever 222 .
- the lever 222 is on the same side of the interconnect portion 205 as which the clip 220 slides in on. In other embodiments, the lever 222 is on the side opposite that which the clip 220 slides in on.
- a mounting screw 221 may be recess mounted into the clip 220 in some embodiments.
- the screw 221 may be of the standard size and thread to attach to a camera in some embodiments.
- the head 223 of the screw 221 may be held into the recess by a slight ridge in the molding of the recess in some embodiments.
- a flexible arm 310 is adapted for twisting and flexing.
- the flexible arm 310 consists of a plurality of interconnected connectors 311 .
- the connectors 311 may be ball and socket connectors.
- the connectors 311 may be multi-material connectors according to other embodiments of the present invention.
- the connectors 311 may have a gripping portion 314 .
- the gripping portion 314 may be of a rubberized compound. The gripping portion 314 allows for better friction when the flexible arm 310 is wrapped around a feature such as a pole, for example.
- the gripping portion is co-molded into the connector body.
- the co-molding process may also be referred to as overmolding or double injection molding.
- An end connector 312 may have a gripping pod 313 .
- the gripping pod 313 may be of rubberized compound.
- the flexible arm 310 may have an end connector on both ends of the flexible arm.
- the gripping pod may also be co-molded onto the connector.
- the connector onto which the gripping pod is overmolded may vary from the other connectors in order to be better adapted to receiving the gripping pod. Connectors that support a gripping pod may be termed a gripping pod connector.
- a flexible arm, or monopod consists of a plurality of interconnected connectors 311 with an interconnect portion 316 on one end.
- the interconnect portion 316 is adapted to receive a clip 317 into its opening 324 .
- the clip 317 may be inserted into the opening 324 , which will capture the rails 325 of the clip 317 , which will be captured by the interconnect portion 316 .
- the clip will have a recess in its bottom surface in the shape of a slot.
- a spring loaded tab connected to a release lever with a button resides in the interconnect portion, allowing the clip to be pushed in and then retained as the tab first is pushed down by the insertion of the clip and then springs back up into the slot in the underside of the clamp.
- a spring loaded release button 318 may be pushed to release the clip 317 .
- a rotating locking ring 334 may lock the spring loaded release button from being able to release. While a variety of different types of clips may be used with the monopod, the clip 217 shown in FIG. 7 is adapted to receive a camera flash unit.
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an apparatus according to some embodiments of the present invention.
- a plurality of flexible legs 401 are connected to a main body 404 to form a tripod.
- the connectors 402 interconnected to form the flexible legs 401 may be composite connectors in some embodiments.
- a gripping pod 403 may be present at the ends of the flexible legs.
- FIGS. 10A-B are a view and cross-section of a main body of an apparatus 400 according to some embodiments of the present invention.
- the main body 404 has a plurality of socket receiving cavities 405 spaced around a vertical axis and splayed out at an angle from vertical.
- a threaded stud 406 allows for connection to a device to be supported.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Pivots And Pivotal Connections (AREA)
- Mutual Connection Of Rods And Tubes (AREA)
- Clamps And Clips (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/803,143 to Bevirt, filed May 11, 2007, which is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/324,994 to Bevirt, filed Jan. 3, 2006, which are both hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates to connectors which interconnect into a flexible assembly, and more specifically to a connectors and assemblies using ball and socket joint connectors.
- 2. Description of Related Art
- Typical prior art ball and socket connectors are constructed out of the same material for both the ball and the socket. However, as most of the ball portion typically is under compressive stress, while most of the socket is under tensile stress, it may be desirable to use one material for the ball and another material for the socket.
- Certain types of plastics may be well suited for ball and socket connectors but be subject to creep under tension. Thus, a connector made from a composite of materials may allow the benefits of differing materials to be realized.
- The present invention is directed towards ball and socket joint connectors which, when interconnected, form a flexible assembly. Each connector includes a body with a first and second end portion. An external socket engaging surface is provided at one end of the body. The other end of the body has an internal cavity. The socket engaging surface of one connector is snapped into the internal cavity of another to interconnect the connectors. The internal cavity end portion may be of a material that is less subject to creep, and which may have high stiffness. The socket end portion may be made of a softer material that allows for sufficient deflection to allow for mating but is not as subject to creep as this portion is predominantly in compression.
- In some embodiments, the ball and socket joint connectors utilize an over-molded strip around the outside of the connector to facilitate in their use for gripping. In an exemplary embodiment utilizing the aforementioned ball and socket joint connectors, a mounting apparatus uses legs comprising the ball and socket joint connectors for support.
-
FIGS. 1A-B illustrate an end view and cross-sectional view of a composite connector according to some embodiments of the present invention. -
FIGS. 2A-B illustrate an side view and cross-sectional view of a composite connector according to some embodiments of the present invention. -
FIGS. 3A-B illustrate an end view and cross-sectional view of a pair of composite connectors according to some embodiments of the present invention. -
FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of a plurality of connected connectors according to some embodiments of the present invention. -
FIG. 5 is a side view of a connector according to some embodiments of the present invention. -
FIG. 6 is an illustration of a tripod apparatus according to some embodiments of the present invention. -
FIGS. 7A-B are side and cross-sectional views of a body and interconnect portion of a tripod apparatus according to some embodiments of the present invention. -
FIG. 8 is an illustration of a flexible arm assembly according to some embodiments of the present invention. -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an apparatus according to some embodiments of the present invention. -
FIGS. 10A-B are a view and cross-section of a main body of an apparatus according to some embodiments of the present invention. -
FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a ball andsocket connector 10 according to some embodiments of the present invention. Aconnector 10 has afirst end portion 12 and asecond end portion 13. A socketengaging end surface 14 is present at thefirst end 12. Thefirst end portion 12 is substantially hollowed out in some embodiments. - The
second end portion 13 has abody 16 with an internalsocket receiving cavity 17. Theinner surface 11 of the an internalsocket receiving cavity 17 is adapted to fit over the socket engagingend surface 14 of anotherconnector 10, or of another piece with a similar socket engaging end surface. Aneckdown 15 separates thefirst end portion 12 from thesecond end portion 13. Astop nub 18 acts as a mechanical stop to prevent over angulation and possible unintentional separation of a ball and socket joint connector pair. - The
first end portion 12 and thesecond end portion 13 may be of different materials. For example, the socket engagingend surface 14, along with the rest of thefirst end portion 12, may be of an ABS plastic. The internalsocket receiving cavity 17, as well as thesecond end portion 13, may be of another material, such as aluminum. The selection of differing materials may offer a variety of advantages. For example, the frictions between the two materials may be ideal for a particular use. Also, as in the case of using a metal such as aluminum, the connector may be much stiffer than a connector made solely of plastic. In the case of a support structure made of a length of connectors, the stiffness added to each connector may greatly affect the stiffness of the overall structure. This may be especially important with some types of support structures where wobbling or vibration interferes with the intended use, as may be the case with support structures for cameras and the like. The use of a stiffer material in theneckdown region 15 may also lead to a substantially stiffer structure when the connectors are used in an interconnected assembly. - Another distinct advantage of a composite connector may be that using a metal for the socket, which is primarily under tensile stress, as opposed to a plastic, reduces the likelihood over time of creep induced relaxation of the fit of the ball and socket. Also, if the ball and socket are ever disengaged, it may be that the plastic socket is more susceptible to permanent deformation, and the use of a metal socket may allow the connectors to be connected and disconnected in a manner that may not be suitable with all plastic connectors.
- Although the foregoing discussion has involved plastic and metal, other combinations of materials may be used. For example, nylon may be used with plastic. Other suitable combinations may also be used. The connector may be symmetric around a primary axis in some embodiments. The end surface planes of the first and second end portions of the connector may be perpendicular to the primary axis in some embodiments.
- In some embodiments, the bulk of the
second end portion 13 may machined from metal, such as aluminum. Theinternal mating surface 11 of thesocket receiving cavity 17 may be machined to a desired roughness. A series ofgrooves 20 may be left on the external surface of the second end portion to facilitate the molding of thefirst end portion 12 over thesecond end portion 13. Apin 18 may also be molded at the same time and of the same material. Agrip strip 19 may be molded of the same material, or of a softer material, as desired. The grip strip may be added with a softer or more grippy material in a second molding process. Grooves or other structure may be present in the outer surface of the second end portion to better facilitate the adherence of thegrip strip 19 to the second end portion. - In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen in
FIG. 4 , aflexible arm assembly 32 has been constructed out of a plurality ofconnectors 10. The flexible arm assembly may include agripping pod 31 on one or both ends in some embodiments. - In some embodiments, as seen in
FIGS. 5 , 6 and 6A, aconnector 120 includes a gripping portion 122. Theconnector 120 has afirst end portion 125 and asecond end portion 123. A socket engagingend surface 124 is present at thefirst end 125. Thefirst end portion 125 may be substantially hollowed out in some embodiments. - The
second end 123 has abody 121 with an internal socket receiving cavity. The inner surface of the an internal socket receiving cavity 130 is adapted to fit over the socket engagingend surface 124 of another connector, or of another piece with a similar socket engaging end surface. Aneckdown 128 separates thefirst end portion 125 from thesecond end portion 123. A gripping portion 122 allows the connector to grip surfaces more readily. In some embodiments, the gripping portion is co-molded into the connector body. In some embodiments, the gripping portion is a rubberized compound. In some embodiments, the gripping portion is a circumferential ring molded into the outer surface of the connector. The gripping portion may provide a higher friction interface when the connector is set upon or wrapped around an object. - FIGS. 6 and 7A-B illustrate a
tripod apparatus 200 according to some embodiments of the present invention. Abody portion 201 provides a base of support for threeflexible legs flexible legs body portion 201 by forming tripod support. The flexible legs are able to adapt to uneven surfaces to allow the tripod to function in a variety of situations. Although three legs are used here for illustration, more legs may be present in some embodiments. As seen inFIG. 6 , thebody portion 201 itself may have a series of interconnected ball and socket joint connectors within it, allowing for even more flexibility with regard to its mounting function. The ball and socket connectors may be constructed of a variety of materials as illustrated in earlier embodiments of the present invention. - In some embodiments, the
body sockets 252 are equally spaced around the center of thebody portion 201. The body sockets are also flared at an angle relative to the ground (in typical usage). In some embodiments, the flared angle is 45 degrees. The flaring of the body sockets allows a different range of potential wrapping angles for the legs of the tripod. - With the flaring of the body sockets, the tripod legs may still be utilized as in the case of a typical tripod. The range of motion of the body sockets and the connectors which form the legs still allow for vertical positioning of the legs. Thus, the
body portion 201 retains the tripod's usual functionality. The flaring, however, allows for greater bending of the legs in cases where the legs are used as gripping arms, such as when wrapped around vertical bars and the like. Thus the body portion 501 adds to the range of positions and to the types of uses that the apparatus may entertain. - Although the flexible legs are illustrated as functioning legs in
FIG. 6 , the legs are of sufficient flexibility that the may be used to wrap around items such as bars or other objects in order to fasten the tripod apparatus to objects that would not be suitable for mounting of a typical tripod. In conjunction with the gripping portion, this allows the tripod apparatus to be fastened to a variety of objects. For example, when used to position a digital camera, the legs may wrap around a vertical gate rail, allowing the mounting of the camera for a photo taking opportunity not previously available. - In some embodiments, the
body portion 201 is connected to aninterconnect portion 205. Aclip 220 is removably fastened to theinterconnect portion 205. Theclip 220 may have a threaded post adapted to fit into a camera or other device in some embodiments. - In some embodiments, the
flexible legs gripping pod 207. Thegripping pod 207 may be fully molded into the cavity of the connector. In some embodiments, the terminal connector of each leg has a socket engaging end surface on its first end and a suction cup on its second end. The suctions cups may allow for a secure attachment of thetripod apparatus 200 to a variety of surfaces. - In some embodiments of the present invention, the
interconnect portion 205 is adapted to receive aclip 220. Theclip 220 may have rails adapted to slide into slots within theinterconnect portion 205. Theclip 220 may haverecess 226 adapted to be filled by atab 225 on a spring loadedlever 222. The clip is removably attached to theinterconnect portion 205 and may be released by pressing on thelever 222. In some embodiments, thelever 222 is on the same side of theinterconnect portion 205 as which theclip 220 slides in on. In other embodiments, thelever 222 is on the side opposite that which theclip 220 slides in on. - A mounting
screw 221 may be recess mounted into theclip 220 in some embodiments. Thescrew 221 may be of the standard size and thread to attach to a camera in some embodiments. Thehead 223 of thescrew 221 may be held into the recess by a slight ridge in the molding of the recess in some embodiments. - In some embodiments of the present invention, as seen in
FIG. 7 , aflexible arm 310 is adapted for twisting and flexing. In some embodiments, theflexible arm 310 consists of a plurality ofinterconnected connectors 311. Theconnectors 311 may be ball and socket connectors. Theconnectors 311 may be multi-material connectors according to other embodiments of the present invention. Theconnectors 311 may have agripping portion 314. The grippingportion 314 may be of a rubberized compound. The grippingportion 314 allows for better friction when theflexible arm 310 is wrapped around a feature such as a pole, for example. In some embodiments, the gripping portion is co-molded into the connector body. The co-molding process may also be referred to as overmolding or double injection molding. Anend connector 312 may have agripping pod 313. Thegripping pod 313 may be of rubberized compound. In some embodiments, theflexible arm 310 may have an end connector on both ends of the flexible arm. The gripping pod may also be co-molded onto the connector. In some embodiments, the connector onto which the gripping pod is overmolded may vary from the other connectors in order to be better adapted to receiving the gripping pod. Connectors that support a gripping pod may be termed a gripping pod connector. - In some embodiments of the present invention, a flexible arm, or monopod, consists of a plurality of
interconnected connectors 311 with aninterconnect portion 316 on one end. Theinterconnect portion 316 is adapted to receive aclip 317 into itsopening 324. Theclip 317 may be inserted into theopening 324, which will capture therails 325 of theclip 317, which will be captured by theinterconnect portion 316. In some embodiments, the clip will have a recess in its bottom surface in the shape of a slot. A spring loaded tab connected to a release lever with a button resides in the interconnect portion, allowing the clip to be pushed in and then retained as the tab first is pushed down by the insertion of the clip and then springs back up into the slot in the underside of the clamp. A spring loadedrelease button 318 may be pushed to release theclip 317. Arotating locking ring 334 may lock the spring loaded release button from being able to release. While a variety of different types of clips may be used with the monopod, the clip 217 shown inFIG. 7 is adapted to receive a camera flash unit. -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an apparatus according to some embodiments of the present invention. A plurality offlexible legs 401 are connected to amain body 404 to form a tripod. Theconnectors 402 interconnected to form theflexible legs 401 may be composite connectors in some embodiments. Agripping pod 403 may be present at the ends of the flexible legs. -
FIGS. 10A-B are a view and cross-section of a main body of anapparatus 400 according to some embodiments of the present invention. Themain body 404 has a plurality ofsocket receiving cavities 405 spaced around a vertical axis and splayed out at an angle from vertical. A threadedstud 406 allows for connection to a device to be supported. - As evident from the above description, a wide variety of embodiments may be configured from the description given herein and additional advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. The invention in its broader aspects is, therefore, not limited to the specific details and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures from such details may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the applicant's general invention.
Claims (7)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/555,099 US20130168512A1 (en) | 2006-01-03 | 2012-07-21 | Mounting Apparatus Using Ball and Socket Joints With Composite Connectors |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/324,994 US20070154254A1 (en) | 2006-01-03 | 2006-01-03 | Mounting apparatus using ball and socket joints with gripping features |
US11/803,143 US8297566B2 (en) | 2006-01-03 | 2007-05-11 | Mounting apparatus using ball and socket joints with composite connectors |
US13/555,099 US20130168512A1 (en) | 2006-01-03 | 2012-07-21 | Mounting Apparatus Using Ball and Socket Joints With Composite Connectors |
Related Parent Applications (1)
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US11/803,143 Continuation US8297566B2 (en) | 2006-01-03 | 2007-05-11 | Mounting apparatus using ball and socket joints with composite connectors |
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US20130168512A1 true US20130168512A1 (en) | 2013-07-04 |
Family
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Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US11/803,143 Active 2026-11-20 US8297566B2 (en) | 2006-01-03 | 2007-05-11 | Mounting apparatus using ball and socket joints with composite connectors |
US13/555,099 Abandoned US20130168512A1 (en) | 2006-01-03 | 2012-07-21 | Mounting Apparatus Using Ball and Socket Joints With Composite Connectors |
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US11/803,143 Active 2026-11-20 US8297566B2 (en) | 2006-01-03 | 2007-05-11 | Mounting apparatus using ball and socket joints with composite connectors |
Country Status (3)
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US (2) | US8297566B2 (en) |
CN (1) | CN101542142B (en) |
WO (1) | WO2008140806A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (23)
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US8297566B2 (en) * | 2006-01-03 | 2012-10-30 | Day Men US, Inc | Mounting apparatus using ball and socket joints with composite connectors |
US20070154254A1 (en) * | 2006-01-03 | 2007-07-05 | Bevirt Joeben | Mounting apparatus using ball and socket joints with gripping features |
WO2008130599A1 (en) * | 2007-04-16 | 2008-10-30 | Anton/Bauer, Inc. | Articulated support assembly |
CN101644296B (en) * | 2008-08-08 | 2012-01-25 | 鸿富锦精密工业(深圳)有限公司 | Connection unit and ball joints thereof |
US20100221062A1 (en) * | 2008-12-29 | 2010-09-02 | Bevirt Joeben | Ball and Socket Connectors With Substructure |
US20110042530A1 (en) * | 2009-08-19 | 2011-02-24 | Mark Phillips | Flexipod with flexible bendable legs with a gripping surface |
US20120019113A1 (en) * | 2010-07-26 | 2012-01-26 | Hale Eric C | Device Case and Mounting Apparatus With Flexible Support Legs |
US20120175474A1 (en) * | 2011-01-06 | 2012-07-12 | Brandon Barnard | Electronic device holder |
TWM410823U (en) * | 2011-03-15 | 2011-09-01 | Lung-Shin Ko | Three-dimensional omni-directional conduit |
US9004799B1 (en) | 2011-08-31 | 2015-04-14 | Skylar Tibbits | Transformable linked self-assembly system |
CN103062589A (en) * | 2011-10-21 | 2013-04-24 | 鸿富锦精密工业(深圳)有限公司 | Supporting device |
US20130134268A1 (en) * | 2011-11-26 | 2013-05-30 | Grifiti Llc | Multiuse Monopod Device Mounting System and Method |
US9232966B2 (en) | 2012-09-24 | 2016-01-12 | Refai Technologies, Llc | Articulating spinal rod system |
US9448588B2 (en) | 2012-12-12 | 2016-09-20 | Brandon Barnard | Electronic device holder |
US8857775B1 (en) | 2013-07-22 | 2014-10-14 | Gopro, Inc. | Camera mount with spring clamp |
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USD758474S1 (en) | 2015-05-07 | 2016-06-07 | Gopro, Inc. | Camera mount |
DE202016102474U1 (en) * | 2016-05-09 | 2017-08-10 | Böllhoff Verbindungstechnik GmbH | Extension adapter of a plug-in coupling |
US9945510B1 (en) * | 2017-10-12 | 2018-04-17 | Paul Reitberger | Flashlight mount |
US10337666B2 (en) * | 2017-10-12 | 2019-07-02 | Paul Reitberger | Flashlight mount |
US10718997B2 (en) * | 2019-01-17 | 2020-07-21 | John Kiernan-Lewis | Modular tripod-arm |
USD921095S1 (en) | 2019-06-19 | 2021-06-01 | Gopro, Inc. | Camera mount |
USD989847S1 (en) * | 2020-11-24 | 2023-06-20 | Ningbo Yizhou Machinery Co., Ltd. | Tripod |
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US1255577A (en) * | 1917-01-31 | 1918-02-05 | Edward Francis Berry | Flexible pipe-coupling or flexible pipe. |
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US4085915A (en) * | 1977-01-11 | 1978-04-25 | Kyong Jin Song | Coupling device for equipping a camera onto the tripod |
JPH03129333A (en) * | 1989-10-14 | 1991-06-03 | Konica Corp | Camera tripod |
US5752097A (en) * | 1996-08-29 | 1998-05-12 | Eastman Kodak Company | Apparatus for supporting a camera to face a subject to be photographed and for illuminating the subject |
DK1176902T3 (en) * | 1999-04-30 | 2009-02-23 | Johan Adolf Bystroem | coupling device |
US6352227B1 (en) * | 2000-06-08 | 2002-03-05 | Clarence Eduard Hathaway | Segmented, ball jointed support |
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US6729778B1 (en) * | 2003-06-24 | 2004-05-04 | Shing Ming Wu | Fixture for fixing camera and the likes capable of adjusting the pitching angle of the camera |
US7533906B2 (en) * | 2003-10-14 | 2009-05-19 | Water Pik, Inc. | Rotatable and pivotable connector |
US20060226309A1 (en) * | 2005-04-12 | 2006-10-12 | Barbara Pao | Display rack assembly |
US20080056808A1 (en) * | 2006-01-03 | 2008-03-06 | Bevirt Joeben | Monopod mounting apparatus |
US20090101772A1 (en) * | 2006-01-03 | 2009-04-23 | Bevirt Joeben | Level indicator clip for tripods and other structures |
US8297566B2 (en) * | 2006-01-03 | 2012-10-30 | Day Men US, Inc | Mounting apparatus using ball and socket joints with composite connectors |
US20070154254A1 (en) * | 2006-01-03 | 2007-07-05 | Bevirt Joeben | Mounting apparatus using ball and socket joints with gripping features |
USD574700S1 (en) * | 2007-01-05 | 2008-08-12 | Joby Photo, Inc. | Ball and socket connector |
-
2007
- 2007-05-11 US US11/803,143 patent/US8297566B2/en active Active
-
2008
- 2008-05-09 CN CN2008800007319A patent/CN101542142B/en active Active
- 2008-05-09 WO PCT/US2008/006038 patent/WO2008140806A1/en active Application Filing
-
2012
- 2012-07-21 US US13/555,099 patent/US20130168512A1/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
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US8297566B2 (en) | 2012-10-30 |
US20080093516A1 (en) | 2008-04-24 |
CN101542142B (en) | 2012-07-18 |
WO2008140806A1 (en) | 2008-11-20 |
CN101542142A (en) | 2009-09-23 |
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