U.S. patent application number 13/157983 was filed with the patent office on 2013-05-09 for camera mount apparatus and system for a scope.
The applicant listed for this patent is Robert Russell. Invention is credited to Robert Russell.
Application Number | 20130111798 13/157983 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46876092 |
Filed Date | 2013-05-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130111798 |
Kind Code |
A2 |
Russell; Robert |
May 9, 2013 |
Camera Mount Apparatus and System for a Scope
Abstract
This disclosure relates to an apparatus for mounting a camera
onto a firearm and an associated device for capturing images and
recordings of a firearm target. The apparatus allows for easy
attachment of cameras of varying sizes onto the scope of a firearm
and along the same longitudinal axis of the scope. The apparatus
comprises a sleeve connected to a scope of a firearm, the sleeve
being hallow and having a longitudinal axis longitudinal axis
forming an unobstructed axial bore and generally coaxial with a
longitudinal axis of the scope; a base member with a hole and
adapted to receive a camera with the hole of the base member
positioned adjacent to the lens of the camera and the longitudinal
axis of the camera lens is generally coaxial with the longitudinal
axis of the scope.
Inventors: |
Russell; Robert; (Sikeston,
MO) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Russell; Robert |
Sikeston |
MO |
US |
|
|
Prior
Publication: |
|
Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20120240444 A1 |
September 27, 2012 |
|
|
Family ID: |
46876092 |
Appl. No.: |
13/157983 |
Filed: |
June 10, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61467831 |
Mar 25, 2011 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
42/90 ;
396/419 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41G 1/387 20130101;
F41C 27/00 20130101; F41G 3/165 20130101; G03B 17/561 20130101;
G03B 29/00 20130101; G03B 17/48 20130101; F41G 1/38 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
42/90 ;
396/419 |
International
Class: |
F41C 27/00 20060101
F41C027/00; G03B 17/48 20060101 G03B017/48 |
Claims
1. An apparatus for mounting a camera onto a scope, the apparatus
comprising: a sleeve for connecting to a scope, the sleeve having a
hollow longitudinal axis forming an unobstructed axial bore; a
cylindrical aperture at one end of the sleeve, the cylindrical
aperture having a longitudinal axis generally coaxial with the
longitudinal axis of the sleeve; a second aperture at the opposite
end of the sleeve, the second aperture having a longitudinal axis
generally coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical
aperture; a connector for rigidly connecting the sleeve to the
scope; and a base member connected to the sleeve, the base member
comprising a hole positioned adjacent to the second aperture, the
base member being adapted to receive a camera having a lens having
a longitudinal axis; wherein when the sleeve is connected to the
scope, the cylindrical aperture is aligned with the scope and the
longitudinal axis of the scope is generally coaxial with the
longitudinal axis of the sleeve; wherein when the camera is
attached to the base member, the hole of the base member is
positioned adjacent to the lens of the camera and the longitudinal
axis of the lens is generally coaxial with the longitudinal axis of
the scope.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the base member is a
substantially planar plate comprising a hole positioned adjacent to
the second aperture.
3. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising flanges extending
substantially perpendicular from the plate of the base member,
wherein the flanges are sized and shaped to secure the camera onto
the base member.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a clamp adapted to
receive the camera.
5. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a flange hingedly
connected to the plate.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a means for
securing the camera onto the base member.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the base member is removably
connected to the sleeve.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the connector is an adapter
connected over the scope and the sleeve, the adapter being
cylindrically-shaped and hollow and the adapter having a
longitudinal axis generally coaxial with the longitudinal axis of
the scope and sleeve.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the connector is an adapter
secured to the scope, the adapter being cylindrically-shaped and
hollow, the adapter having a longitudinal axis generally coaxial
with the longitudinal axis of the scope and sleeve; wherein the
sleeve is placed over the adapter, the sleeve being removably
fastened to the adapter.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the connector is: a rim
comprised of mirrored pieces extending substantially perpendicular
from the sleeve; and a screw; wherein the pieces of the rim are
tightened with the screw to connect the sleeve to the scope.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sleeve is cylindrically
shaped.
12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein when the sleeve is connected
to the scope the diameter of the cylindrical aperture is equal to
or greater than the diameter of the scope.
13. A device for capturing images and recordings of a firearm
target, the device comprising: a firearm comprising a scope having
a longitudinal axis; a camera comprising a lens having a
longitudinal axis; an apparatus for mounting a camera onto a
firearm, the apparatus comprising: a sleeve for connecting to the
scope, the sleeve having a hollow longitudinal axis forming an
unobstructed axial bore; a cylindrical aperture at one end of the
sleeve, the cylindrical aperture having a longitudinal axis
generally coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the sleeve; a
second aperture at the opposite end of the sleeve, the second
aperture having a longitudinal axis generally coaxial with the
longitudinal axis of the cylindrical aperture; a connector for
rigidly connecting the sleeve to the scope; and a base member
connected to the sleeve, the base member comprising a hole
positioned adjacent to the second aperture; wherein the sleeve is
connected to the scope in such a manner that the cylindrical
aperture is aligned with the scope and the longitudinal axis of the
scope is generally coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the
sleeve; wherein the camera is attached to the base member in such a
manner that the hole of the base member is positioned adjacent to
the lens of the camera and the longitudinal axis of the lens is
generally coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the scope.
14. The device of claim 13, wherein the base member is removably
connected to the sleeve.
15. The device of claim 13, wherein the diameter of the cylindrical
aperture is equal to or greater than the diameter of the scope.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
[0001] This application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 61/467,831 filed Mar. 25, 2011, the entire
disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This disclosure relates to mount apparatuses for photo and
video cameras, including smartphones and other cameras, and more
particularly, to an improved mount on a firearm for supporting the
cameras.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Hunting is a popular recreational pastime in the United
States and many other countries throughout the world. It has become
increasingly common in recent times to record or photograph the
hunt through the use of cameras and video cameras. As a result,
mounting cameras and other electronic devices to a firearm in a
manner that does not impede the hunt has become desired by those in
the field of hunting, particularly the ability to both view the
target while allowing for accurate firing of the firearm. Obtaining
such a record of the hunt allows the hunter to later review his or
her shots from the "eye" of the camera.
[0006] Additionally, with the advent of internet-enabled cameras,
users can instantaneously e-mail, text, or "post" pictures and
videos. The devices also display images and recording before,
during and after the taking of the photograph or recording.
However, to be able to capture the hunt with these devices, a stand
or additional person is needed, prohibiting the ability to view the
hunt from the "eye" or scope of the camera. Thus, the need for such
a mount to accommodate these devices has become all the more
desired.
[0007] Accordingly, there is a need for an apparatus and firearm
system designed to accommodate cameras and for mounting onto the
scope of a firearm.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The following is a summary of the invention in order to
provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the invention.
This summary is not intended to identify key or critical elements
of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. The
sole purpose of this section is to present some concepts of the
invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed
description that is presented later.
[0009] Because of these and other problems in the art, described
herein is an apparatus for mounting a camera onto a scope. In an
embodiment, the apparatus comprises an elongated, hollow sleeve for
connecting to a scope, the sleeve having a hollow longitudinal axis
forming an unobstructed axial bore; a cylindrical aperture at one
end of the sleeve, the cylindrical aperture having a longitudinal
axis generally coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the sleeve; a
second aperture at the opposite end of the sleeve, the second
aperture having a longitudinal axis generally coaxial with the
longitudinal axis of the cylindrical aperture; a connector for
rigidly connecting the sleeve to the scope; and a base member
connected to the sleeve, the base member comprising a hole
positioned adjacent to the second aperture, the base member being
adapted to receive a camera having a lens having a longitudinal
axis. In this embodiment, when the sleeve is connected to the
scope, the cylindrical aperture is aligned with the scope and the
longitudinal axis of the scope is generally coaxial with the
longitudinal axis of the sleeve. Additionally, when the camera is
attached to the base member, the hole of the base member is
positioned adjacent to the lens of the camera and the longitudinal
axis of the lens is generally coaxial with the longitudinal axis of
the scope.
[0010] In one embodiment, the base member is a substantially planar
plate comprising a hole positioned adjacent to the second aperture.
In such an embodiment, the apparatus may further comprises flanges
extending substantially perpendicular from the plate of the base
member. In this embodiment, the flanges are sized and shaped to
secure the camera onto the base member. In such an embodiment, the
apparatus may further comprise a clamp adapted to receive the
camera. Additionally, the apparatus may further comprise a flange
hingedly connected to the plate.
[0011] In another embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a
means for securing the camera onto the base member. In yet another
embodiment, the base member is removably connected to the
sleeve.
[0012] In an embodiment, the connector may comprises various
different configurations. For example, the connector may be an
adapter connected over the scope and the sleeve, the adapter being
cylindrically-shaped and hollow and the adapter having a
longitudinal axis generally coaxial with the longitudinal axis of
the scope and sleeve. The connector may also be an adapter secured
to the scope, the adapter being cylindrically-shaped and hollow,
the adapter having a longitudinal axis generally coaxial with the
longitudinal axis of the scope and sleeve; wherein the sleeve is
placed over the adapter, the sleeve being removably fastened to the
adapter. Additionally, the connector be a rim comprised of mirrored
pieces extending substantially perpendicular from the sleeve; and a
screw. In such an embodiment, the pieces of the rim are tightened
with the screw to connect the sleeve to the scope.
[0013] In one embodiment of the apparatus, the sleeve is
cylindrically shaped. In such an embodiment, when the sleeve is
connected to the scope, the diameter of the cylindrical aperture
may be equal to or greater than the diameter of the scope.
[0014] Also disclosed herein is device for capturing images and
recordings of a firearm target, the device comprising: a firearm
comprising a scope having a longitudinal axis; a camera comprising
a lens having a longitudinal axis; an apparatus for mounting a
camera onto a firearm, the apparatus comprising: an elongated,
hollow sleeve for connecting to the scope, the sleeve having a
hollow longitudinal axis forming an unobstructed axial bore; a
cylindrical aperture at one end of the sleeve, the cylindrical
aperture having a longitudinal axis generally coaxial with the
longitudinal axis of the sleeve; a second aperture at the opposite
end of the sleeve, the second aperture having a longitudinal axis
generally coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical
aperture; a connector for rigidly connecting the sleeve to the
scope; and a base member connected to the sleeve, the base member
comprising a hole positioned adjacent to the second aperture. In
such an embodiment, the sleeve is connected to the scope in such a
manner that the cylindrical aperture is aligned with the scope and
the longitudinal axis of the scope is generally coaxial with the
longitudinal axis of the sleeve. Additionally, the camera is
attached to the base member in such a manner that the hole of the
base member is positioned adjacent to the lens of the camera and
the longitudinal axis of the lens is generally coaxial with the
longitudinal axis of the scope.
[0015] In one embodiment of the device, the base member is
removably connected to the sleeve. In another embodiment, the
diameter of the cylindrical aperture is equal to or greater than
the diameter of the scope.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of an embodiment of the
camera mount apparatus and system connected to the scope of a
firearm.
[0017] FIG. 2 provides a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0018] FIG. 3 provides a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 4 provides a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.
1 with a smartphone secured thereto.
[0020] FIG. 5 provides a perspective view of a second embodiment of
the camera mount apparatus and system with a smartphone secured
thereto and connected to the scope of a firearm.
[0021] FIG. 6 provides a rear view of the embodiment of FIG. 5.
[0022] FIG. 7 provides a front-side perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 5.
[0023] FIG. 8 provides a rear-side perspective view of the
embodiment of FIG. 5.
[0024] FIG. 9 provides a perspective view of a third embodiment of
the camera mount apparatus and system connected to the scope of a
firearm.
[0025] In accordance with common practice, it should be understood
that the drawings are not necessarily to scale and that the
embodiments are sometimes illustrated by graphic symbols, phantom
lines, diagrammatic representations, and fragmentary views. In
certain instances, details which are not necessary for an
understanding of embodiments of the present invention or which
render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted.
Additionally, as one of ordinary skill in the art would readily
understand, the invention is not necessarily limited to the
particular embodiments illustrated and described herein.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)
[0026] The present disclosure is directed to various types of
mounts for securing cameras onto a scope, such as the scope of a
firearm or bow. In some embodiments, the disclosure is directed to
an apparatus that acts as an accessory to a conventional firearm.
In other embodiments, the disclosure is directed to an actual
firearm or device that is capable of and designed to store cameras.
Generally, the apparatus and device are designed for connecting
these cameras to the scope of the firearm while still allowing for
an eye view of the target and accurate firing of the firearm viewed
through the device. As a result, still photos and video recordings
can be taken without a material change or effect on the firearm. As
the camera is able to capture photos and video through the scope,
it can also be particularly useful for training purposes, such as
for a novice hunter or for military and police training.
[0027] As will become apparent upon a careful reading of the
detailed description of the embodiments discussed herein, the
camera mount apparatus and system for a scope provides enhanced
stability, a simple means for securing the camera, and the ability
to display on the camera the view seen from the scope of a weapon,
such as but not limited to, a rifle or firearm. This display
provides for a wider field of view and enables the shooter to zoom
onto the target. Additionally, a shooter can take photos and videos
before, during, and after a target has been located to be later
viewed for entertainment or training. With an internet-enabled
camera, the shoot can also easily stream, e-mail, text, or post the
photos and videos for viewing by friends, family, and colleagues at
remote locations.
[0028] "Cameras," as used and described herein, generally relate to
devices that record and store images and videos, including, but not
limited to, digital cameras, camera-enabled Personal Digital
Assistants, camera phones, and/or smartphones (e.g., iPhones,
BlackBerrys.RTM., Nokia N8, Motorola Droid, and the like).
"Shooter," as used and described herein, generally relates to a
hunter; however, one of ordinary skill in the art would readily
recognize that the embodiments disclosed herein are also very
useful for other applications, including, but not limited to,
military, police, security, target shooting, and any other
application where a photo or recording of a shot could be utilized.
"Hunt," as used and described herein, generally relates to the
practice of pursuing any living thing (usually wildlife) for food,
recreation, or trade. However, the term is not intended to be
limited to conventional "hunting," and could include any use of a
firearm, including, but not limited to, shooting at targets or
other inanimate objects and/or chasing and potentially shooting a
suspect by police or military personnel.
[0029] It should also be noted that a conventional rifle is shown
as the firearm in the depicted embodiments discussed below. Those
skilled in the art, however, would readily appreciate that the
camera mount apparatus could be used on any firearm, including, but
not limited to, long guns, shotguns, automatic rifles, assault
rifles, machine guns, handguns, or the like. Additionally, the
apparatus could be mounted on any device with a scope, including,
for example, a bow, taser, air-soft gun, paintball gun, BB gun, or
laser gun.
[0030] With reference to FIGS. 1-4, a camera mount apparatus (100)
and firearm system will be described according to a first
embodiment of the present invention. The apparatus (100) includes
an adapter (501) connected to the scope (600) of a firearm (700), a
sleeve (500) connected the adapter (501), and a base member (200)
in the form of a platform for receiving a camera (800). Both the
sleeve (500) and adapter (501) are cylindrically-shaped, hollow and
have longitudinal axes extending from the longitudinal axis of the
scope (600) with the diameter of the sleeve (500) forming an
unobstructed axial bore generally at least as wide as the diameter
of the scope (600); thus, allowing for a shooter to see through the
sleeve (500) and adapter (501) and into the scope (600). As shown,
the adapter (501) operates as connector for connecting the scope
(600) and the sleeve (500), with the adapter (501) connecting over
the scope (600) and the sleeve (500). In this regard, the adapter
(501) is generally made of a material that can be formed to fit
securely onto both the scope (600) and the sleeve (500) without the
need for additional bonding materials and while maintaining a
rigidity sufficient to align the longitudinal axes of the scope
(600) and sleeve (500). Examples of such a material include rubber,
vulcanized rubber, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or any other material
that can be formed while maintaining a rigidity. Additionally, one
of ordinary skill in the art would readily appreciate that the
above examples are in no way limiting to the types of available
materials. When the sleeve (500) is connected to the scope (600) in
this manner, the cylindrical aperture (590) of the sleeve (500) is
aligned with scope (600) and the longitudinal axis of the scope
(600) is generally coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the sleeve
(500).
[0031] The sleeve (500) is then connected to the adapter (501)
along the same longitudinal axis as the adapter (501). The sleeve
(500) is generally comprised of a rigid material, including, but
not limited to PVC, metal, or the like. The base member (200) is
then connected to the sleeve (500) by any means known to one of
ordinary skill in the art, including, but not limited to, glue,
welding or any other suitable bonding.
[0032] The base member (200) is designed to receive the camera
(800) and includes a hole (204) to allow the lens of the camera to
"see into" the scope (600) of the firearm (700). The base member
(200) is positioned adjacent to a second aperture (591) of the
sleeve (500) in such a manner that a shooter can see through the
hole (204) and into the sleeve (500) and thereby into the scope
(600). Stated differently, the lens extends along the longitudinal
axis of the scope (600) and sleeve (500). As a result, the screen
(801) of the camera (800) displays the view seen from the scope
(600) of the firearm (700), as shown in FIG. 4. In this regard, the
actual design of the base member (200) can vary depending on the
size, shape, and lens position of the camera, but it should be
designed to sufficiently receive and secure the camera in a manner
that allows the lens to see into the scope (600). In any event, the
shooter advantageously would not need to put his or her eye in
direct contact with the scope (600) of the firearm (700). Instead,
the shooter can now view the target on the screen (801) of the
camera (800) and through the scope (600). This allows for an
accurate depiction of the target while also displaying a wider
field of view, enabling a zoom function, and allowing the shooter
to photograph or record the target and the hunt.
[0033] In an embodiment, the base member (200) includes a generally
planar plate (201) with a hole (204) and flanges ((202) and (203))
extending therefrom and substantially perpendicular to the plate
(201). The flanges ((202) and (203)) operate as a means for
securing the camera (800) onto the plate (201). In this embodiment,
a flatter camera device, such as a smartphone, will generally be
used. In an alternative embodiment, however, a camera may be
utilized in which the lens of the camera extends through the hole
(204). The base member (200) is bonded to the sleeve (500) at
approximately the location of the hole (204) of the base member
(200), which, as noted above, allows for the lens to see into the
scope (600). The camera (800) is placed substantially flush against
the plate (201) with the lens aligned with the hole (204) and the
flanges ((202) and (203)) securing the camera in place, as shown in
FIG. 4. Thus, the screen (801) of the camera (800) can display,
photograph, and record the view seen through the scope (600). Such
an arrangement is particularly advantageous as it not only allows a
shooter to see the scope view on a display screen (801), but it
also allows a shooter to later review photos and recordings from
the actual view of the scope.
[0034] In an embodiment, one flange (202) is at the top of the
plate (201) and one flange (203) is at the bottom of the plate
(201). This arrangement is by no means necessary, as one of
ordinary skill in the art would readily recognize that the flanges
could also or alternatively be placed on the sides of the plate
(201) and could include any number of flanges. These flanges ((202)
and (203)) additionally have rounded corners ((205)-(208)) as a
further means for securing the particular camera (800) in place.
Again, this particular design of the flanges is by no means
necessary, as one of skill in the art would readily recognize that
other arrangements and designs of flanges could similarly be used
to secure the camera in place. For example, the flanges could be
bendable such that once the device is placed against the plate, the
flanges could be bent inward to secure the camera into place. The
edges of the flanges may also be slightly indented in order to
receive and secure the camera. In the depicted embodiments, the
flanges ((202) and (203)) are sized and shaped such that the camera
(800) can securely snap into place. To remove the camera (800) from
the base member (201), a shooter can simply snap the camera (800)
out of place. It should also be noted that the means for securing
the camera (800) in place is not limited to the flanges, as one of
ordinary skill in the art would readily appreciate, and could
include, for example, adhesives, bands, clamps, contoured cases,
fasteners, or the like.
[0035] In certain embodiments, the apparatus (100) also may include
a stabilizer (250). One of ordinary skill in the art would readily
appreciate that this stabilizer (250) is by no means necessary as
the apparatus (100) in FIGS. 1-4 may merely be comprised of the
base member (200) and a means for connecting the base member to the
scope, which provides all the benefits described above. In fact, in
many embodiments, the stabilizer (250) may not be feasible, for
example, if the firearm (700) in FIGS. 1-4 did not have a stock
(701), or as shown in FIGS. 5-9 and described below.
[0036] However, for certain embodiments and with certain types of
firearms, a stabilizer (250) advantageously helps secure the camera
(800) onto the plate (201) of the base member (200). The stabilizer
(250) generally includes an adjustable top clamp (252) and
adjustable bottom clamp (251) both connected to a back panel (254)
with a receiving nut (253), a screw (400) attached to an adjuster
(302) for threading into the receiving nut (253), and a support
(301) attached to the adjuster (302) for securing the stabilizer
(250) onto the firearm (700). In an embodiment, the support (301)
is attached to the stock (701) of the firearm (700). The support
(301) can be attached by any sufficient means for securing the
support (301). In the depicted embodiment, the support (301) is
attached with a bolt (311) and washer (310) and secured with a nut
(312). This type of fastening, however, is by no means the only
available fastening as one of ordinary skill in the art would
readily appreciate.
[0037] The clamps ((252) and (251)) are movably and adjustably
connected to the back panel (254). As noted above, the back panel
(254) also includes a receiving nut (253). As discussed more below,
when the receiving nut (253) is loosened, the clamps ((252) and
(251)) can be adjusted by sliding the clamps along the vertical
axis of the back panel (254). This allows the clamps ((252) and
(251)) to be tightened once the camera (800) is in place.
[0038] The adjuster (302) includes a ball-bearing (304) therewithin
and a thumbscrew (303) which serves to thread the screw (400) to
tighten and loosen the receiving nut (253) such that the adjustable
top clamp (252) and adjustable bottom clamp (251) can be moved up
and down along the vertical axis of the back panel (254) to help
secure the camera (800) in place. In other words, when the
thumbscrew (303) is loosened, the clamps ((252) and (251)) can
easily slide and be adjusted. Thus, a shooter can loosen the
thumbscrew (303), snap the camera (800) on the plate (201), adjust
the clamps ((252) and (251)) into place, and then tighten the
thumbscrew (303) in order to secure the camera (800) into place
with the now tightened clamps ((252) and (251)). To remove the
camera (800), the shooter simply unscrews the thumbscrew (303),
slides the clamps ((252) and (251)), and snaps the camera out of
the base member (200).
[0039] As similarly described above, it is important to note, as
one of ordinary skill in the art would readily appreciate, the
stabilizer (including the clamps, back panel, receiving nut, screw,
adjuster, and support) is by no means necessary.
[0040] Turning now to FIGS. 5-8, a camera mount apparatus (2100)
and firearm system will be described according to an embodiment of
the present invention. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment
discussed above in reference to FIGS. 1-4 in that the apparatus
(2100) connects to the scope (2600) of a firearm (2700) to allow a
camera (2800) to display, photograph, and/or record the view seen
from the scope (2600). In this embodiment, however, the stabilizer
is omitted. Additionally, this embodiment includes other means for
securing the apparatus (2100) to the scope (2600) and for securing
the camera (2800) to the apparatus (2100), among other differences
discussed more fully below.
[0041] The apparatus (2100) includes a sleeve (2500) connected to
the scope (2600) by means of an adapter (2501) and a base member
(2200) in the form of a platform for receiving an camera (2800)
with the base member (2200) removably connected to sleeve (2500) by
means of a receiver (2504). The sleeve (2500) and adapter (2501)
are cylindrically-shaped, hollow and have longitudinal axes
extending from the longitudinal axis of the scope (2600) with the
diameter of the sleeve (2500) forming an unobstructed axial bore
generally at least as wide as the diameter of the scope (2600);
thus, allowing for a shooter to see through the sleeve (2500) and
adapter (2501) and into the scope (2600). These components are
connected in such a manner that that the apparatus (2100) can be
attached easily to scopes of varying sizes. Additionally, as the
base member (2200) is removably connected, different types and
sizes of base members can be utilized and changed with ease. As a
result, a user can seamlessly remove and change the base member
(2200) to secure the camera of choice.
[0042] As shown, the adapter (2501) operates as a connector for
connecting the sleeve (2500) to the scope (2600), with the sleeve
(2500) securely connecting over the top of the adapter (2501) and
along the same longitudinal axis as the adapter (2501). The sleeve
(2500) is secured to the adapter (2501) with screw fasteners
(2503), which further operate as a means for connecting the sleeve
(2500) to the scope (2600). When the sleeve (2500) is connected to
the scope (2600) in this manner, the cylindrical aperture (2590) of
the sleeve (2500) is aligned with scope (2600) and the longitudinal
axis of the scope (2600) is generally coaxial with the longitudinal
axis of the sleeve (2500). The receiver (2504) is similarly
connected to the sleeve (2500) with screw fasteners (2505) and
along the same longitudinal axis. The receiver (2504), however, is
by no means necessary. For example, the base member (2200) could
alternatively be directly and removably connected to the sleeve
(2500).
[0043] The sleeve (2500), adapter (2501), and receiver (2504) are
generally comprised of a rigid material, including, but not limited
to PVC, metal, or the like. The base member (2200) is then
removably connected to the receiver (2504). As noted above, this
removable connecting mechanism allows varying sizes and types of
base members, and thereby varying sizes and types of cameras, to be
utilized with the apparatus. For example, a base member may have a
hole in the center to be used in conjunction with an camera with a
similarly central lens.
[0044] The base member (2200) is designed to receive the camera
(2800) and includes a hole to allow the lens of the camera to "see
into" the scope (2600) of the firearm (2700). The base member
(2200) is connected to the receiver (2504), and thereby positioned
adjacent to a second aperture (2591) of the sleeve (2500), in such
a manner that a shooter can see through the hole and into the
receiver (2504), sleeve (2500), and adapter (2501), and thereby
into the scope (2600). Stated differently, the lens extends along
the longitudinal axis of the scope (2600) and sleeve (2500). As a
result, the screen (2801) of the camera (2800) displays the view
seen from the scope (2600) of the firearm (2700), as shown in FIG.
5. In this regard, and as noted above, the actual design of the
base member (2200) and the position of the hole can vary depending
on the size, shape, and lens position of the camera, but it should
be designed to sufficiently receive and removably secure the camera
in a manner that allows the lens to see into the scope (2600). In
any event, the shooter advantageously would not need to put his or
her eye in direct contact with the scope (2600) of the firearm
(2700) with the apparatus (2200) of the present disclosure.
Instead, the shooter can now view the target on the screen (2801)
of the camera (2800) and through the scope (2600). This allows for
an accurate depiction of the target while also displaying a wider
field of view, enabling a zoom function, allowing the shooter to
photograph or record the target and the hunt.
[0045] In an embodiment, the base member (2200) includes a
generally planar plate (2201) with a hole, flanges ((2205) and
(2206)) extending from the top end of the plate (2201) and
substantially perpendicular to the plate (2201), the flanges
((2205) and (2206)) comprising rounded corners, and a clamp (2210).
The flanges ((2205) and (2206)) and clamp (2210) operate as a means
for securing the camera (2800) onto the plate (2201). The base
member (2200) is connected to the receiver (2204) at approximately
the location of the hole of the base member (2200), which, as noted
above, allows for the lens to see into the scope (2600). The camera
(2800) is placed substantially flush against the plate (2201) with
the lens aligned with the hole and the rounded corners of the
flanges ((2205) and (2206)) and the clamp (2210) all securing the
camera in place, as shown in FIGS. 5-6. In this regard, the clamp
(2210) is generally adjustable or bendable and is adapted to
receive and help secure the camera (2800) in place. Thus, with this
arrangement, and as noted above, the screen (2801) of the camera
(2800) can display, photograph, and record the view seen through
the scope (2600), and additionally, this arrangement advantageously
not only allows a shooter to see the scope view on a display screen
(2801), but it also allows a shooter to later review photos and
recordings from the actual view of the scope.
[0046] In the depicted embodiments, the flanges ((2202) and (2203))
are sized and shaped such that the camera (2800) fits into place on
the plate (2201). As noted above, in this embodiment, the flanges
((2202) and (2203)) are in the shape of rounded corners. To remove
the camera (2800) from the base member (2201), a shooter can simply
bend or adjust the clamp (2210) and slide the camera (2800) out of
place. This particular design of the flanges and clamp is by no
means necessary, as one of skill in the art would readily recognize
that other arrangements and designs of flanges could similarly be
used to secure the camera in place. For example, the flanges also
could be bendable such that once the device is placed against the
plate, the flanges could be bent inward to secure the camera into
place. The edges of the flanges may also be slightly indented in
order to receive and secure the camera. It should also be noted
that the means for securing the camera in place is not limited to
the flanges, as one of ordinary skill in the art would readily
appreciate, and could include, for example, adhesives, bands,
clamps, contoured cases, fasteners, or the like.
[0047] Turning now to FIG. 9, a camera mount apparatus (1000) and
firearm system will be described according to another embodiment of
the present invention. This embodiment is similar to the
embodiments discussed above in reference to FIGS. 1-8 in that the
apparatus (1000) connects to the scope (1600) of a firearm (1700)
to allow an camera (1800) to display, photograph, and/or record the
view seen from the scope (1600). In this embodiment, however, the
stabilizer and the adapter are omitted and a hinged flange (1206)
is included as a means for securing the camera (1800), among other
differences. The apparatus (1000) includes a base member (1200)
with an insertion tube (1209) connected directly to the sleeve
(1500), which is in turn connected to the scope (1600) of a firearm
(1700). Again the sleeve (1500) is cylindrically-shaped, hollow and
has a longitudinal axis extending from the longitudinal axis of the
scope (1600); thus, allowing for a shooter to see through the
sleeve (1500) and into the scope (1600).
[0048] As shown, the sleeve (1500) is adjustably connected over the
scope (1600) and insertion tube (1209) of the base member (1200).
In this regard, the sleeve (1500) will generally contain a
tightening mechanism to secure both the sleeve (1500) onto the
scope (1600) and the insertion tube (1209) of the base member
(1200) onto the sleeve (1500). In the depicted embodiments, the
sleeve (1500) includes rims (1503) comprised of two mirrored pieces
extending substantially perpendicular from the sleeve (1500) with
the rims (1503) operating as a connector for connecting the sleeve
(1500) to both the scope (1600) and the base member (1200). Thus,
the sleeve (1500) can be placed over the scope (1600) on one end
and then over the insertion tube (1209) of the base member (1200)
on the other end. The pieces of the rims (1503) are then pinched
together and tightened with screws (1502) to secure the base member
(1200) onto the sleeve (1500) and thereby onto the scope (1600).
When the sleeve (1500) is connected to the scope (1600) in this
manner, the cylindrical aperture (1590) of the sleeve (1500) is
aligned with the scope (1600) and the longitudinal axis of the
scope (1600) is generally coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the
sleeve (1500). The sleeve (1500) and rims (1503) are generally
comprised of a rigid material, including, but not limited to PVC,
metal, or the like.
[0049] The base member (1200) is designed to receive the camera
(1800) and includes a hole (1204) to allow the lens of the camera
to "see into" the scope (1600) of the firearm (1700) and includes
an insertion tube (1209). The insertion tube (1209) of the base
member (1200) is secured to the sleeve (1500) at the second
aperture (1591) of the sleeve (1500), as discussed above, and in
such a manner that a shooter can see through the hole (1204) and
into the sleeve (1500) and thereby into the scope (1600). Stated
differently, the lens extends along the longitudinal axis of the
scope (1600) and sleeve (1500). As a result, the screen (1801) of
the camera (1800) displays the view seen from the scope (600) of
the firearm (700), as similarly discussed above. Again, as
similarly discussed above in reference to FIGS. 1-9, the actual
design of the base member (1200) can vary depending on the size,
shape, and lens position of the camera, but it should be designed
to sufficiently receive and secure the camera in a manner that
allows the lens to see into the scope (1600). In any event, the
shooter advantageously would not need to put his or her eye in
direct contact with the scope (1600) of the firearm (1700).
Instead, the shooter can now view the target on the screen (1801)
of the camera (1800) and through the scope (1600). This allows for
an accurate depiction of the target while also displaying a wider
field of view, enabling a zoom function, and allowing the shooter
to photograph or record the target and the hunt.
[0050] In an embodiment, the base member (1200) includes a
generally planar plate (1201) with a hole (1204), flanges ((1202),
(1203) and (1205)) extending therefrom and substantially
perpendicular to the plate (1201), and a hinged flange (1206)
hingedly connected to the plate (1201) for securing the camera
(1800) in place. The base member (1200) is connected to the sleeve
(1500) at approximately the location of the hole (1204) of the base
member (1200), which, as noted above, allows for the lens to see
into the scope (1600). The hinged flange (1206) is hinged open and
the camera (1800) is slid onto the plate (1201) with the lens
aligned with the hole (1204) and the flanges ((1202), (1203) and
(1205)) securing the camera in place. The hinged flange (1206) is
then locked into place to secure the camera in place. In this
regard, the hinged flange (1206) includes a tab (1207) which snaps
easily on and off the receiver (1208) connected to the top flange
(1202). Once in place, the screen (1801) of the camera (1800) can
display, photograph, and record the view seen through the scope
(1600). Such an arrangement is particularly advantageous as it not
only allows a shooter to see the scope view on a display screen
(1801), but it also allows a shooter to later review photos and
recordings from the actual view of the scope.
[0051] In an embodiment, the top flange (1202) is at the top of the
plate (1201), the bottom flange (1203) is at the bottom of the
plate (1201), and the side flange (1205) and hinged flanged (1206)
are at the sides of the plate (1201). This arrangement is by no
means necessary, as one of ordinary skill in the art would readily
recognize that the flanges could alternatively include any number
of flanges and the hinged flange (1206) could be located on either
side, the top, or the bottom of the plate (1201). Additionally,
these flanges ((1202), (1203) and (1205)) are in the shape of an
"L" to help secure the particular camera (1800) in place. Again,
this particular design of the flanges is by no means necessary, as
one of skill in the art would readily recognize that other
arrangements and designs of flanges could similarly be used to
secure the camera in place. For example, the flanges could be
bendable such that once the device is placed against the plate, the
flanges could be bent to secure the camera into place, or the edges
of the flanges may also be slightly indented in order to receive
and secure the camera. In the depicted embodiments, the flanges
((1202), (1203) and (1205)) are sized and shaped in the form of an
"L" such that the camera (1800) can securely slide into place. To
remove the camera (1800) from the base member (1201), a shooter can
simply slide the camera (1800) out of place.
[0052] While the invention has been disclosed in conjunction with a
description of certain embodiments, including those that are
currently believed to be the preferred embodiments, the detailed
description is intended to be illustrative and should not be
understood to limit the scope of the present disclosure. As would
be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, embodiments
other than those described in detail herein are encompassed by the
present invention. Modifications and variations of the described
embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope
of the invention.
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