Supports – Stand – To hold a particular article
Reexamination Certificate
1999-06-15
2001-03-06
Ramirez, Ramon O. (Department: 3632)
Supports
Stand
To hold a particular article
C396S428000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06196504
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND
1. Field of Invention
This invention relates to a quick-release device that accommodates the interface connection of any camera-type device with any support device.
2. Description of Prior Art
Historically, manufacturers of cameras, lenses, or other optical devices have provided an aperture for attachment of a support device, such as tripods, monopods and ball heads, all having a threaded stud that accommodates their joining. The function of joining these devices has led to the development of products that quickly join or release the devices, known as a “Quick Release”.
Typically, the quick-release system has developed around two basic design concepts, either plate and pocket or plate and slot (dovetail). In either concept, the base plate is to reliably hold the release plate and prevent any inadvertent release.
Traditionally, a release plate device must be attached to the camera, using the aperture as provided by the manufacturer. The always present problem is that of a single attach point being able to stop torsional twisting or loosening between the release plate and the camera.
The plates described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,725,187 to Vo (1998), U.S. Pat. No. 5,222,826 to Hankie (1993) and U.S. Pat. No. 4,929,973 to Nakatani (1990), reflect the most often used method, where twisting is prevented by inserting a second screw through the release plate. This second screw is then forced into the bottom surface of the camera, resulting in damage to surfaces not designed for indiscriminate penetrations. Conversely, U.S. Pat. No. 4,979,709 to Ishikawa (1990) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,429,332 to Ishikawa (1995) fail to address any method at all to stop unwanted torsional twisting between plate and camera.
Unfortunately, methods to stop torsional twisting have either been ignored or considered solved by introducing a second screw. However, a second screw is not acceptable by virtue of the resultant damage.
In general, all plate and pocket or the plate and slot design concepts do a reasonable job of holding the release plate once inserted into the base. Unfortunately, problems arise when the plate is released from the base by an accidental bumping or loosening of the clamping handle or lever. In fact, accidental loosening is so common some manufacturers only supply the clamping mechanism with the smallest round knob or the shortest lever. However, this approach is counter productive when trying to apply as much clamping pressure as possible as it is difficult to grip such small knobs or levers.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,725,187 to Vo (1998), U.S. Pat. No. 5,737,757 to Paddock (1998) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,429,332 to Ishikawa (1995) all suggest the use of small knobs or levers. Conversely, U.S. Pat. No. 5,230,490 to Sloop (1993) demonstrates the concern for inadvertent release by creating a complex system of cams, levers, springs, pins, and plates.
The underlying weakness of today's quick-release systems is the failure to provide a positive lock between the release plate and its base and to control torsional twisting between the release plate and the camera device.
Objects and Advantages
Accordingly, several objects and advantages of my invention are to provide a quick-release device that incorporates a reliable detent lock mechanism for an interface between the device release plate and its base and a clamping block that generates complete surface engagement. Also:
(a) the detent mechanism prevents accidental release of the camera device as a result of abusive handling;
(b) allows for usage of large knobs and handles for clamping;
(c) is not complex to manufacture;
(d) provides a safe interface lock with release plates having various sizes, i.e., short, long or square;
(e) allows random axis orientation of camera when release plate and base are joined.
Furthermore, to provide a quick-release device that incorporates an anti-twist locking plate that prevents torsional twisting or loosening of the camera device when mated to the quick-release plate. Also:
(f) requires only the attachment to the aperture provided by the devices manufacturer;
(g) is adjustable to accommodate the various aperture locations on various devices;
(h) eliminates the need for extreme torque loads being applied to a device aperture during attachment;
(i) does no damage to sensitive surfaces of camera devices;
(j) has no complex parts.
REFERENCES:
patent: 4466595 (1984-08-01), O'Connor
patent: 4525052 (1985-06-01), Kosugi
patent: 4570887 (1986-02-01), Banister
patent: 4763151 (1988-08-01), Klinger
patent: 4929973 (1990-05-01), Nakatani
patent: 4979709 (1990-12-01), Ishikawa
patent: 5222826 (1993-06-01), Hanke
patent: 5230490 (1993-07-01), Sloop
patent: 5337100 (1994-08-01), Oxford
patent: 5429332 (1995-07-01), Ishikawa
patent: 5725187 (1998-03-01), Vo
patent: 5737657 (1998-04-01), Paddock
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