Patent Grant
8256732
Support stands, such as microphone stands and shooting stands, often include telescoping tubes that allow the height of the stands to be adjusted. These telescoping stands may have an inner tube, an outer tube, and a lock that keeps the inner tube from sliding relative to the outer tube. Such stands may be used in situations that require the stands to be rugged and capable of withstanding the elements. For example, hunter's shooting stands, microphone stands, telescope stands, and camera stands are often used outdoors. The components of a stand intended for outdoor use may need to be sealed and tightly fitted to keep water, dirt, and other debris from getting inside the tubes of the stand.
A user may adjust the height of a telescoping support stand by releasing the lock and moving the inner tube up and down within the outer tube. The lock may be a collar that is rotatable to compress the inner tube and the outer tube, binding them at a set length. The lock may also be a set screw bolt that passes through the outer tube and presses against the inner tube. One problem with these types of locks is the time it takes for a user to turn the collar or bolt when making a height adjustment to the stand. Another problem with these locks is that the user may have to hold the inner tube in position while fastening the lock, thus requiring the use of two hands.
Some support stands are equipped with an external trigger connected to an internal lock that secures the inner tube to the outer tube. This locking configuration may allow a user to make quick height adjustments and may permit the user to make adjustments using only one hand. For additional convenience and adjustment speed, the external trigger may be placed on a handle attached to the top of the inner tube. While there are many benefits to a quick-adjustment configuration that utilizes an internal locking mechanism and a handle trigger, there are numerous problems associated with such a support stand configuration.
For example, an internal lock may restrict the flow of air between the inner and outer tubes. The internal lock may be sized to fit snugly within the inner tube and press securely against the outer tube, which closes off the air passageway between the inner and outer tubes. Furthermore, as previously mentioned, support stands are often manufactured to keep water and other debris out, which prevents air from freely flowing in and out of the stand. Thus, air cannot easily flow into, out of, or between the tubes of rugged support stands with internal locks.
When air is unable to quickly enter, exit, or flow between the tubes of a support stand, it is more difficult to make rapid height adjustments to the stand. For example, when a user attempts to extend the length of the stand, the volume inside the outer tube expands, but air is not able to rapidly enter the outer tube and fill the new volume. This vacuum effect creates resistance against a user's attempt to increase the height of the stand. Conversely, when a user attempts to shorten the stand, the volume inside the outer tube decreases. A dampening effect results when air is not able to quickly exit the outer tube. This dampening effect creates resistance against a user's attempt to shorten the stand.
When the airflow within a stand is restricted, a user may need to use two hands to overcome the vacuum and dampening effects to adjust the height of the stand. For example, users may hold the inner tube with one hand while pulling down on the outer tube with the other hand. Users may also hold the outer tube between their feet while pulling up on the inner tube. This situation is undesirable when the user needs to make a quick adjustment or does not have a free hand to help make the adjustment.
Another problem with the quick-adjustment stand configuration is that a user may inadvertently pull the trigger while gripping the handle. For example, a hunter targeting a moving bull elk may keep one hand on the handle of a shooting stand to be ready to make height adjustments. However, in the excitement of taking a shot at the large bull, with the weight of a gun resting on the shooting stand, the hunter may accidentally activate the trigger on the stand, which would drop the height of the stand as he shoots. This situation is dangerous and could result in an inaccurate shot.
According to at least one embodiment, a telescoping support stand may comprise a first tube partially defining a first enclosed area and a second tube partially defining a second enclosed area, a first end of the second tube being telescopically slidable within the first tube. The telescoping support stand may also comprise a first locking mechanism attached to the second tube, the first locking mechanism releasably securing the first tube to the second tube to prevent longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second tube. The telescoping support stand may further comprise a first air exchange aperture dimensioned to allow air to flow between the first and second enclosed areas. In certain embodiments, the first air exchange aperture may comprise an opening in the first locking mechanism. In some embodiments, the first air exchange aperture may comprise a gap between the first locking mechanism and the first tube. In many embodiments, the first air exchange aperture may comprise a notch in the first locking mechanism.
The telescoping support stand may also comprise a second air exchange aperture dimensioned to allow air to exit the second tube. In certain embodiments, the second air exchange aperture may comprise an opening in the second tube. The telescoping support stand may include a head attached to a second end of the first tube, and the second air exchange aperture may allow air to flow from the second tube into the head. In some embodiments, the telescoping support stand may include a third air exchange aperture dimensioned to allow air to exit the head.
In certain embodiments, the first locking mechanism may comprise a truncated-cone member attached to the first end of the second tube and a bearing assembly comprising a bearing retainer and a plurality of bearings. The bearing retainer may comprise an opening for receiving the truncated-cone member, and the bearing assembly may be movable between first and second positions relative to the truncated-cone member. In some embodiments, the truncated-cone member may be dimensioned to press the bearings against an interior surface of the first tube while in the first position, and the truncated-cone member may be dimension to allow the bearings to move away from the interior surface of the first tube while in the second position. In certain embodiments, the truncated-cone member may partially define the first air exchange aperture. In some embodiments, the bearing assembly may at least partially define the first air exchange aperture, and the first locking mechanism may partially define each of the first and second enclosed areas.
In many embodiments, the telescoping support stand may comprise a release mechanism attached to a second end of the second tube. The release mechanism may be movable to release the first locking mechanism to allow longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second tube. In some embodiments, the release mechanism may comprise a handle attached to the second end of the second tube, the handle comprising an outside surface. The telescoping support stand may also comprise a trigger attached to the handle, the trigger comprising an inside surface positioned opposite the outside surface of the handle, the trigger being dimensioned to allow a user to hold the handle by placing a portion of a hand between the outside surface of the handle and the inside surface of the trigger, the trigger being movable to release the first locking mechanism to allow longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second tube.
According to certain embodiments, the telescoping support stand may comprise a release rod attached to the first locking mechanism, and the first air exchange aperture may comprise an opening in the release rod. The telescoping support stand may also comprise a release mechanism movable to cause the release rod to release the first locking mechanism and allow longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second tube.
In some embodiments, the telescoping support stand may comprise a third tube partially defining a third enclosed area, a first end of the third tube being telescopically slidable within the second tube. The telescoping support stand may also comprise a second locking mechanism attached to the third tube, the second locking mechanism releasably securing the second tube to the third tube to prevent longitudinal movement of the second tube relative to the third tube. Furthermore, the telescoping support stand may include a second air exchange aperture dimensioned to allow air to flow between the second and third enclosed areas.
In certain embodiments, the telescoping support stand may comprise a first leg comprising the first and second tubes and a second leg attached to the first leg, the second leg comprising third and fourth tubes. According to some embodiments, the telescoping support stand may comprise a head attached to the first tube, the head being adapted to attach to at least one of: a microphone clip, a camera, a telescope, a spotting scope, binoculars, a surveyor level, and/or a gun rest. The gun rest may be attached to a second end of the second tube.
In certain embodiments, the first air exchange aperture may extend between the first and second enclosed areas. In some embodiments, the first locking mechanism may be released by pulling the first tube away from the second tube.
According to at least one embodiment, a telescoping support stand may comprise a first tube partially defining a first enclosed area, a second tube partially defining a second enclosed area, a first end of the second tube being telescopically slidable within the first tube, a first air exchange aperture dimensioned to allow air to exit the second tube, a locking mechanism attached to the second tube, the locking mechanism releasably securing the first tube to the second tube to prevent longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second tube, and a second air exchange aperture dimensioned to allow air to flow between the first and second enclosed areas.
According to certain embodiments, the second tube at least partially defines the first air exchange aperture and the locking mechanism at least partially defines the second air exchange aperture. In many embodiments, the second air exchange aperture comprises at least one of: an opening in the locking mechanism, a notch in the locking mechanism, a gap between the locking mechanism and an interior surface of the first tube, and a gap between the locking mechanism and a release rod.
In some embodiments, the telescoping support stand may comprise a release rod attached to the locking mechanism, wherein the second aperture comprises an opening in the release rod. The telescoping support stand may also comprise a release mechanism in contact with the release rod, the release mechanism being movable to cause the release rod to release the locking mechanism and allow longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second tube. The telescoping support stand may further comprise an attachment member connecting the release rod to the release mechanism, wherein the first aperture comprises an opening in the attachment member.
According to many embodiments, the locking mechanism may be adapted to releasably secure the first tube to the second tube by pressing against an inside surface of the first tube. The telescoping support stand may also comprise an end cap attached to the first tube, wherein the end cap, the first tube, and the locking mechanism define the first enclosed area. The telescoping support stand may also comprise a head attached to the second tube, wherein the head, the second tube, and the locking mechanism define the second enclosed area.
According to at least one embodiment, a telescoping support stand may comprise a leg comprising first and second tubes, a locking mechanism adapted to prevent longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second tube, a handle attached to the leg, the handle comprising an outside surface. The telescoping support stand may also comprise a trigger attached to the handle, the trigger having an inside surface positioned opposite the outside surface of the handle. The trigger may be dimensioned to allow a user to hold the handle by placing a portion of a hand between the outside surface of the handle and the inside surface of the trigger, and the trigger may be movable to release the locking mechanism to allow longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second tube.
In some embodiments, a first end of the second tube is telescopically slidable within the first tube and the handle is attached to a second end of the second tube. In many embodiments, the telescoping support stand may further comprise a locking mechanism attached to the second tube, the locking mechanism being responsive to the trigger to releasably secure the first tube to the second tube to prevent longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second tube. According to certain embodiments, the locking mechanism, the second tube, and the handle may define a first enclosed area. The telescoping support stand may also comprise an end cap attached to the first tube, wherein the end cap, the first tube, and the locking mechanism define a second enclosed area. According to certain embodiments, the telescoping support stand comprises a first air exchange aperture dimensioned to allow air to flow between the first and second enclosed areas.
According to various embodiments, the telescoping support stand further comprises a second air exchange aperture dimensioned to allow air flow from the first enclosed area to the handle. The telescoping support stand may also include a third air exchange aperture dimensioned to allow air to exit the handle. In some embodiments, the telescoping support stand comprises a gun rest attached to the handle.
In at least one embodiment, a method of assembling a telescoping support stand comprises providing a first tube and providing a second tube comprising first and second ends, the first end of the second tube being telescopically slidable within the first tube. The first tube may partially define a first enclosed area and the second tube may partially define a second enclosed area. The method may also comprise providing a locking mechanism dimensioned to allow air to flow between the first and second enclosed areas. The method may further comprise attaching the locking mechanism to the second tube at the first end, the locking mechanism being adapted to releasably secure the first tube to the second tube to prevent longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second tube. In various embodiments, the method may comprise attaching a release mechanism to the second tube at the second end, the release mechanism being movable to release the locking mechanism to allow longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second tube. The method may also comprise sliding the second tube into the first tube.
According to at least one embodiment, a telescoping support stand may comprise a first tube and a second tube. A first end of the second tube may be telescopically slidable within the first tube. The telescoping support stand may also include a truncated cone extending from the first end of the second tube, a top portion of the truncated cone having a larger diameter than a bottom portion of the truncated cone. According to some embodiments, the telescoping support stand comprises a bearing assembly with bearings. The bearing assembly may be disposed around at least a portion of the truncated cone such that the bearing assembly is movable between first and second positions relative to the truncated cone, the top portion of the truncated cone pushing the bearings against an inside surface of the first tube when the bearing assembly is in the first position, the bottom portion of the truncated cone allowing the bearings to move away from the interior surface of the first tube when the bearing assembly is in the second position.
According to at least one embodiment, a telescoping support stand may comprise a leg with first and second tubes, a locking mechanism adapted to prevent longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second tube, a trigger coupled to the locking mechanism, and a spring connected to the trigger to bias the trigger in a first position.
According to at least one embodiment, a telescoping support stand may comprise a first tube partially defining a first enclosed area, a second tube partially defining a second enclosed area, and a third tube partially defining a third enclosed area. A first end of the first tube may be telescopically slidable within the second tube, and a first end of the second tube may be telescopically slidable within the third tube. A first locking mechanism may be attached to the first tube, and the first locking mechanism may releasably secure the first tube to the second tube to prevent longitudinal movement of the second tube relative to the first tube. A second locking mechanism may be attached to the second tube, and the second locking mechanism may releasably secure the first tube to the second tube to prevent the second tube from collapsing into the third tube. In certain embodiments, the second locking mechanism may allow the second tube to be pulled to an expanded position relative to the third tube. A first air exchange aperture may allow air to flow between the first and second enclosed areas, and a second air exchange aperture may allow air to flow between the second and third enclosed areas.
In some embodiments, the telescoping support stand may further comprise a release rod attached to the first locking mechanism. In various embodiments, a bottom portion of the first locking mechanism may be dimensioned to release the second locking mechanism.
In additional embodiments, a telescoping support stand may comprise two or more extendable legs, at least one of the extendable legs comprising a first tube, a first enclosed area being at least partially defined within the first tube. Additionally, at least one of the extendable legs may comprise a second tube, a first end of the second tube being telescopically slidable within the first tube, wherein a second enclosed area is at least partially defined within the second tube. At least one of the extendable legs may also comprise a first locking mechanism attached to the second tube, the first locking mechanism releasably securing the first tube to the second tube to prevent longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second tube. At least one of the extendable legs may additionally comprise a first air exchange aperture dimensioned to allow air to flow between the first and second enclosed areas.
According to various embodiments, a telescoping support stand may comprise two or more extendable legs, each of the two or more extendable legs comprising a first tube and a corresponding second tube, the first tube in each of the two or more extendable legs being telescopically slidable within the corresponding second tube. Each of the two or more extendable legs may additionally comprise a locking mechanism in each of the two or more extendable legs, each of the locking mechanisms being adapted to prevent longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second corresponding tube. Each of the two or more extendable legs may also comprise a release mechanism coupled to the two or more extendable legs, the release mechanism being configured to release the locking mechanism in each of the two or more extendable legs to allow longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the corresponding second tube in each of the two or more extendable legs.
According to certain embodiments, a method of assembling a telescoping support stand may comprise providing two or more extendable legs, at least one of the extendable legs comprising a first tube, a first enclosed area being at least partially defined within the first tube. Additionally, at least one of the extendable legs may comprise a second tube comprising first and second ends, the first end of the second tube being telescopically slidable within the first tube, wherein a second enclosed area is at least partially defined within the second tube. The method may further comprise providing a locking mechanism in each of the extendable legs, the locking mechanism being dimensioned to allow air to flow between the first and second enclosed areas. The method may additionally comprise attaching the locking mechanism to the second tube at the first end, the locking mechanism being adapted to releasably secure the first tube to the second tube to prevent longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second tube. The method may also comprise attaching a release mechanism to the second tube at the second end, the release mechanism being movable to release the locking mechanism to allow longitudinal movement of the first tube relative to the second tube. In addition, the method may comprise sliding the second tube into the first tube.
The accompanying drawings illustrate a number of embodiments of the instant disclosure and are part of the specification. Together with the following description, the drawings demonstrate and explain the principles of the instant disclosure.
Throughout the drawings identical reference characters and descriptions indicate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements. While embodiments of the instant disclosure are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, one of skill in the art will understand that embodiments of the instant disclosure are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed herein. Rather, the instant disclosure covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of embodiments defined by the appended claims.
As shown in
Inner tube 150 may be connected to a head, such as a handle 110, as shown in
Trigger 120 may be connected to a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may releasably secure outer tube 140 to inner tube 150 to prevent longitudinal movement of inner tube 150 relative to outer tube 140. The description of
Handle 110 may be attached to an accessory, such as a gun rest 130, as shown in
According to some embodiments, gun rest 130 may be v-shaped. Gun rest 130 may also be various other shapes. In various embodiments, gun rest 130 may be rotatable. Gun rest 130 may be shaped to allow a shooter to rest a barrel or other portion of a gun in gun rest 130 to help stabilize the gun while the shooter is shooting. In some embodiments, telescoping support stand 100 may include a gun mount instead of a gun rest. Gun rest 130 (or any other accessory or head) may include a hook that allows telescoping support stand 100 to be attached to clothing, a belt, or a pack for easy carrying.
Many other features of telescoping support stand 100 and other exemplary telescoping support stands are described in the following discussion of
Enclosed areas 180 and 190 may be completely or substantially air-tight. For example, end cap 144 may be sealed or attached to outer tube 140 such that little or no air can escape from enclosed area 190 through or around end cap 144. Release rod guide 160 may be secured at the top end of inner tube 150 such that little or no air can escape through the top of inner tube 150. When air is unable to quickly enter and exit enclosed areas 180 and 190, vacuum and dampening effects slow the ability of telescoping support stand 100 to move between collapsed and expanded positions. In some embodiments, the bottom of enclosed area 190 and the top of enclosed area 180 may be referred to as substantially air-tight when, without any type of air exchange system, dampening and vacuum affects are present when the telescoping support stand is adjusted.
According to certain embodiments, locking mechanism 170 may divide enclosed area 180 from enclosed area 190. For example, locking mechanism 170 may be attached to an end of inner tube 150, as shown in
When trigger 120 is pulled toward handle 110, adjustment member 122 may press down on release rod 160. As shown in
When telescoping support stand 100 is collapsed, the volume of enclosed area 190 decreases and air may be pushed out of telescoping support stand 100 through the first, second, and third air exchange apertures. Thus, the first, second, and third air exchange apertures may serve to reduce or eliminate the dampening effect caused when telescoping support stand 100 is substantially air-tight, and telescoping support stand 100 may be able to be quickly moved to a collapsed position. The dampening effect may also be reduced by including only one or two of the first, second, and third air exchange apertures in telescoping support stand 100.
While
Inner tube 150 may include air exchange apertures. For example, opening 151, as previously mentioned, may be an air exchange aperture that allows air to enter and exit enclosed area 180. As shown in
Truncated-cone member 172, in some embodiments, may be disposed around tubular member 178 such that a tapered portion of truncated-cone member 172 comes into contact with bearings 176. A top portion of truncated-cone member 172 may be threaded to allow truncated-cone member 172 to attach to inner tube 150. Thus, when release rod 160 moves tubular member 178 and bearing retainer 174 in a downward direction, truncated-cone member 172 may stay stationary relative to tubular member 178 and bearing retainer 174. Spring 179 may be positioned on top of or within truncated-cone member 172 and may bias tubular member 178 and bearing retainer 174 in a first position. In the first position, bearing retainer 174 holds bearings 176 against a top section of the tapered portion of truncated-cone member 172 such that truncated cone member 172 presses bearings 176 against an inside surface of outer tube 140. Thus, when bearing retainer 174 is in the first position, bearings 160 may prevent longitudinal movement of outer tube 140 relative to inner tube 150.
As previously mentioned, release rod 160 may press tubular member 178 and bearing retainer 174 downward to a second position. In the second position, a lower portion of the tapered section of truncated-cone member 172 allows bearings 176 to move away from the inside surface of outer tube 140. Thus, in the second position, bearings 176 may not be forced against the inside surface of outer tube 140, allowing longitudinal movement of outer tube 140 relative to inner tube 150. In other embodiments, bearing retainer 174 may be secured to inner tube 150, and truncated-cone member 172 may be attached to release rod 160. In such embodiments, the tapered portion of truncated-cone member 172 may be pointed towards handle 110. Trigger 120 may move truncated-cone member 172 in a downward direction to release bearings 176 and allow longitudinal movement of outer tube 140.
One of skill in the art will recognize various possible modifications and alternatives to exemplary locking mechanism 170. For example, bearing retainer 174 may contain any number of bearings. In some embodiments, bearing retainer 174 may include three or four bearings. In other embodiments, bearing retainer 174 may include just one or two bearings or many more than four bearings. According to certain embodiments, bearings 176 are made of metal. In other embodiments, bearings 176 are made of plastic, rubber, or any other suitable material. Furthermore, various types of locking mechanisms fall within the scope of embodiments described herein. For example, locking mechanism 170 may include detents that can be pressed into notches in the inside surface of outer tube 140. The description of
The configuration of locking mechanism 170 may help to keep locking mechanism 170 from slipping under a load. When a load is applied to gun rest 130, the load may push inner tube 150 in a downward direction. Locking mechanism 170, in a locked position, keeps inner tube 150 from sliding down into outer tube 140. In some previous devices, the locking mechanisms may start to slip if too much downward force is applied to gun rest 130. However, locking mechanism 170 may actually fasten more securely under a load. This is because downward pressure on inner tube 150 may force truncated-cone member 172, which may be attached to a bottom end of inner tube 150, further into bearing retainer 174. When truncated-cone member 172 is forced further into bearing retainer 174, truncated cone-member 172 causes bearings 176 to press more firmly against the inside surface of outer tube 140. Truncated-cone member 172, particularly when under a load, may apply a rotational force to bearings 176 in a direction opposite to the direction that bearings 176 rotate when moving downward through outer tube 140. This rotational force may also help to keep bearing-member 170 from slipping under a load.
According to various embodiments, telescoping support stand 100 may include internal air exchange apertures and may also be substantially sealed such that water, dirt, and other debris cannot easily enter enclosed areas 180 and 190. Thus, telescoping support stand 100 may be both rugged and quickly adjustable.
A release rod 260 may be attached to a crown nut 252, or to any other attachment member, to hold release rod 260 inside of handle 210. An end cap 256 may be attached to a top end of first tube 250, and a spring 254 may be disposed around release rod 260. Spring 254 may sit on end cap 256 and press against crown nut 252 to bias release rod 260 in a first position. In certain embodiments, a top portion of end cap 256 may be recessed and spring 254 may sit within end cap 256. Release rod 260 may be attached to a male truncated-cone member 264, and a locking ring 262 may be disposed around male truncated-cone member 264 and a female truncated cone-member 258. Female truncated-cone member 258 may be attached to or formed in a bottom portion of first tube 250. In the first position, release rod 260 may pull male truncated-cone member 264 towards or into female truncated-cone member 258 to force locking ring 262 to expand.
When locking ring 262 expands, it may press against an inside surface of second tube 270. Thus, locking ring 262 may prevent longitudinal movement of second tube 270 relative to first tube 250 when release rod 260 and male truncated-cone member 264 are in the first position. In some embodiments, locking mechanism 270 may include rubber or plastic rings or pads instead of locking ring 262.
When trigger 220 is pulled, it may press down against crown nut 252 to force release rod 260 and male truncated-cone member 264 into a second position. In the second position, male truncated-cone member 264 may allow locking ring 262 to contract and release second tube 270, allowing longitudinal movement of second tube 270 relative to first tube 250. In some embodiments, a second locking ring may be disposed around a second set of male and female truncated-cone members, and the second locking ring may releasably secure second tube 270 to third tube 240.
Release rod 260 may be hollow and may include openings 261. Openings 261 may be air exchange apertures that allow air to flow between the first enclosed area and the inside of release rod 260. Release rod 260 may also be open at a top end to allow air to flow between release rod 260 and an area enclosed by handle 210. Release rod 260 may also be open at a bottom end to allow air to flow between the second enclosed area and the area enclosed by handle 210. In other words, air may flow between the first enclosed area and the second enclosed area through release rod 260. Air may also flow between the first enclosed area and the area enclosed by handle 210 through release rod 260. And in some embodiments, air may flow between the second enclosed area and the area enclosed by handle 210 through release rod 260. Thus, the hollow region within release rod 260 may comprise an air exchange aperture.
First tube 250 may include openings 251 and 253. Opening 251 may be an air exchange aperture that allows air to flow between the first enclosed area and the area enclosed by handle 210. Openings 253 may receive posts extending from handle 210 to secure handle 210 to first tube 250. Openings 253 may be large enough to allow air to pass between the posts and first tube 250. Crown nut 252 may also include openings 255, as illustrated in
The air exchange apertures described herein may be openings, slits, holes, pinholes, channels, gaps, or any other type of apertures that will allow air to enter and exit an enclosed area. In some embodiments, a telescoping support stand may include a single air exchange aperture. In other embodiments, a telescoping support stand may include numerous air exchange apertures. As used herein, the term air exchange aperture may refer to a single aperture or multiple apertures that allow air to flow between enclosed areas.
Handle 310 also includes an accessory attachment member 312, which contains an inner screw 316 and an outer screw 318. Outer screw 318 may be spring-loaded, which allows outer screw 318 to be pressed down in order to expose the threads of inner screw 316. If an attachment is configured to receive outer screw 318, the attachment may simply screw onto outer screw 318. If an attachment is configured to receive inner screw 316, outer screw 318 may be pressed down, exposing the threads of inner screw 316.
Handle 310 may have a flat top portion 319 where an attachment may be connected. Top portion 319 may include a rubber pad that helps grip accessories. Top portion 319 may also include locking notches that accept locking beads from an accessory, thereby preventing the accessory from rotating.
As shown in
When a user desires to increase the height of telescoping support stand 700, the user may pull the trigger, which may release locking mechanism 760. However, pulling the trigger may not release locking mechanism 770 since locking mechanism 770 is not attached to release rod 780. Locking mechanism 770 may be adapted to allow tube 750 to move to an expanded position relative to tube 740 even though locking mechanism 770 is not attached to a release device. A user may be able to pull third tube 750 to an extended position because a force that pulls third tube 750 away from second tube 740 may pull bearing retainer 774 in a downward direction relative to truncated-cone member 772. This movement of bearing retainer 774 may relax the pressure that bearings 776 apply to the inside surface of third tube 750, allowing third tube 750 to move relative to second tube 740. Thus, locking mechanism 770 may be released by pulling 750 into an expanded position relative to second tube 740. In some embodiments, locking mechanism 760 may be released either by pulling the trigger or by pulling second tube 740 into an expanded position relative to first tube 730.
Telescoping support stand 700 may include air exchange apertures or passageways that allow air to flow between enclosed areas 732, 742, and 752. For example, locking mechanism 760 may include air exchange apertures or passageways that allow air to flow between enclosed areas 732 and 742. Locking mechanism 770 may include air exchange apertures that allow air to flow between enclosed areas 742 and 752. First tube 730 may include air exchange apertures that allow air to flow from enclosed area 732 into an area enclosed by handle 710, and handle 710 may include air exchange apertures that allow air to enter and exit handle 710. Accordingly, air may be able to flow from enclosed area 752 to enclosed area 742, from enclosed area 742 to enclosed area 732, from enclosed area 732 into handle 710, and then may exit telescoping support stand through handle 710.
Telescoping support stand 800 may comprise at least two extendable legs 841 that may each be adjusted by pulling trigger 820 attached to handle 810. As shown in
In each of extendable legs 841, enclosed area 880 may be defined partially or completely within inner tube 850. As shown in
According to various embodiments, enclosed area 885 may be partially or completely defined within connection housing 893, as shown in
Telescoping support stand 800 may also comprise a locking mechanism 870. According to certain embodiments, locking mechanism 870 may divide enclosed area 880 from enclosed area 890. For example, locking mechanism 870 may be attached to an end of inner tube 850, as shown in
Enclosed areas 880 and 890 in each of extendable legs 841 may be completely or substantially air-tight. For example, end cap 844 may be sealed or attached to outer tube 840 such that little or no air can escape from enclosed area 890 through or around end cap 844. Release rod 860 may be secured at the top end of inner tube 850 such that little or no air can escape through the top of inner tube 850. In various embodiments, air may freely move directly or indirectly between a top portion of inner tube 850 and an exterior of telescoping support stand 800.
In additional embodiments, air may readily flow into and out of enclosed areas 880 and 890 in each of extendable legs 841 through a specific area of entry and exit. For example, outer tube 840 may be substantially or completely closed to air flow, except in and/or around locking mechanism 870, where enclosed area 890 may be open to enclosed area 880 in inner tube 850. Similarly, outer tube 840 may be substantially or completely closed to air flow, except in and/or around locking mechanism 870 as described, as well as in and/or around joint member 897, where enclosed area 880 may be open to enclosed area 885. Enclosed area 885 may be open to enclosed area 880 in one or more extendable legs 841 as described, and additionally, enclosed area 885 may be open to an exterior of telescoping support stand 800. Accordingly, air may enter telescoping support stand 800 primarily or solely through one or more openings between an exterior of telescoping support stand 800 and enclosed area 885, which may prevent debris and/or liquid from entering telescoping support stand 800 at a point substantially below connection housing 893, which may in turn protect interior portions of telescoping support stand 800 from damage and/or operational difficulties.
Air may also be exchanged between enclosed area 885 and enclosed area 880 in each of extendable legs 841 through any suitable route. For example, a space may be formed between joint member 897 and release rod 860, allowing passage of air between enclosed area 885 and enclosed area 880. In at least one embodiment, a space between joint member 897 and release rod 860 may be formed by providing an aperture through joint member 897 that has a larger diameter than an outer diameter of release rod 860. In certain embodiments, a hole may formed in joint member 897, allowing air exchange between enclosed area 885 and enclosed area 880. In additional embodiments, a space may be formed between joint member 897 and inner tube 850 and/or a hole may be formed in joint member 897, allowing air exchange between enclosed area 880 and an exterior of telescoping support stand 800.
While trigger 820 is shown in
As shown in
Handle tube 892 and/or handle 810 may be coupled to connection housing 893 through any suitable coupling means. In at least one embodiment, as illustrated in
Extendable legs 841 may be rotationally adjustable with respect to each other. Additionally, extendable legs 841 may be rotationally adjustable with respect to handle 810 and/or connection housing 893. According to at least one embodiment, at least one of extendable legs 841 may be attached to joint member 897 as shown in
Telescoping support stand 800 may additionally comprise at least one holding member 895 and/or at least one holding spring 896. Each holding spring 896 and holding member 895 may be disposed at least partially within a recess defined within connection housing 893. Holding members 895 may hold extendable legs 841 in position and may prevent extendable legs 841 from undesirably rotating. Each holding member 895 may comprise a member formed to any suitable shape and size and may include a portion configured to fit within a corresponding first positioning notch 887 and/or a corresponding second positioning notch 888 defined in joint member 897. According to various embodiments, telescoping support stand 800 may comprise two or more holding members 895 and/or two or more holding springs 896 for each of joint members 897.
Holding spring 896 may be positioned between holding member 895 and joint member 897 such that holding spring 896 applies a force on holding member 895 toward joint member 897, biasing holding member 895 toward joint member 897. As shown in
When joint member 897 is rotated to a point where second positioning notch 888 is positioned adjacent holding member 895, spring 896 which applies a force to holding member 895 may cause a portion of holding member 895 to be pressed in second positioning notch 888, as shown in
Additionally,
Telescoping support stand 900 may also comprise three or more extendable legs 941 that may each be adjusted by pulling trigger 920 attached to handle 910.
Extendable legs 941 may be coupled to connection housing 993 and/or handle 910 through any suitable coupling means. In certain embodiments, extendable legs may be rotationally adjustable either individually or collectively with respect to connection housing 993. According to additional embodiments, pulling trigger 920 may release locking mechanisms in two or more extendable legs 941 simultaneously or substantially simultaneously, which may in turn enable three or more extendable legs 941 to be extended and/or contracted simultaneously. Telescoping support stand 900 having multiple extendable legs 941 that are rotationally adjustable and that may be extended and/or contracted simultaneously and that may be easily and quickly deployed and/or adjusted to suit a variety of conditions and environments.
Once second end caps 944 come into contact with a surface, telescoping support stand 900 may be further adjusted by holding trigger 920 pulled toward handle 910 and adjusting the position of handle 910 relative to extendable legs 941 and second end caps 944 contacting surface 965. Once a desired positions for handle 910 is obtained, trigger 920 may be released and/or moved away from handle 910, thereby engaging locking mechanisms 970. When locking mechanisms 970 are engaged, outer tube 940 may be prevented from sliding relative to inner tubes 950. If further adjustment is required, trigger 920 may again be pulled toward handle 910, and the position of handle 910 may be adjusted relative to extendable legs 941 and second end caps 944. Extendable legs 941 may also be contracted by pulling trigger 920 toward handle 910 and sliding outer tubes 940 relative to inner tubes 950 toward connection housing 993, either by manually sliding outer tubes 940 or by turning telescoping support stand 900 upside down.
Extendable legs 941 may be adjusted to varying lengths depending on the height and position of handle 910 and on the characteristics of a particular surface. For example, as shown in
Trigger 920 may be attached to handle 910 or any other suitable portion of telescoping support stand 900. As trigger 920 is pulled toward handle 910, a contact surface 924 of trigger 920 may contact and cause displacement rod 991 to slide in a longitudinal direction within handle tube 992. As shown in
Handle tube 992 and/or handle 910 may be coupled to connection housing 993 through any suitable coupling means. For example, insert member 998 may couple handle tube 992 to connection housing 993. Insert member 998 may comprise any suitable member capable of securing handle tube 992 to connection housing 993, including, for example, a shoulder bolt. Insert member 998 may be disposed within connection housing 993 and in insert groove 999 formed in an exterior of handle tube 992. Handle tube 992 may additionally comprise one or more grooves 986 defined in a perimeter of handle tube 992. In various embodiments, ball bearings and/or a gasket may be disposed within one or more grooves 986 to facilitate rotation of handle tube 992 with respect to connection housing 993, to balance handle tube 992, and/or to enable handle tube 992 to be held stationary with respect to connection housing 992.
Extendable legs 941 may be rotationally adjustable with respect to each other. Additionally, extendable legs 941 may be rotationally adjustable with respect to handle 910 and/or connection housing 993. According to at least one embodiment, at least one of extendable legs 941 may be attached to joint member 997 as shown in
Additional details of displacement member 994 and connection housing 993 are illustrated in
The telescoping support stands described herein may be monopods, bipods, tripods, quadrapods, etc. Telescoping support stands may be used as shooting sticks, hiking sticks, optical equipment stands, microphone stands, telescope stands, or any other type of support stand. Telescoping support stands may be made in various shapes and sizes and the leg or legs of the telescoping support stands may have any number of telescoping tubes.
The preceding description has been provided to enable others skilled in the art to best utilize various aspects of the exemplary embodiments described herein. This exemplary description is not intended to be exhaustive or to be limited to any precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the instant disclosure. It is desired that the embodiments described herein be considered in all respects illustrative and not restrictive, and that reference be made to the appended claims and their equivalents for determining the scope of the instant disclosure. In addition, for ease of use, the words “including” and “having,” as used in the specification and claims, are interchangeable with and have the same meaning as the word “comprising.”
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/198,560, filed 26 Aug. 2008, now pending, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/556,606, filed 3 Nov. 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,845,602, the disclosures of which are incorporated, in their entireties, by this reference. Application Ser. No. 12/198,560, application Ser. No. 11/556,606, and likewise this application, claim the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/771,751, filed 9 Feb. 2006, the disclosure of which is incorporated in its entirety by this reference.
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