Description:

The invention relates to a base element for a modular support system that can be used to demountably assembling a support structure, for example a camera support. The base element is an elongate flat plate having a front face, a rear face, a plate thickness, and an edge side defined by the plate thickness, wherein the base element comprises a first outer end and a second outer end opposite to the first outer end, wherein each base element comprises two or more pivotal connection locations. The invention further relates to a modular support system, to a bridge element for the modular support system, to a camera support, to a support structure and to a method of filming.

From US 2012/138763 A1 Figure 5 a base element is known having on the first outer end or shoulder end a male element with an inter-connection point or hole provided with circular disposed ball headed pins, and on the second outer end or foot end a mating female element (see Figure 4) provided with a plurality of detent holes disposed in a circular pattern around the central engagement hole. This base element has limited applicability and versatility because the male element and the female element are provided at opposing front and rear faces and can only be interconnected in one way. Furthermore rotating two interconnected base elements with respect to each other is limited due to the shoulder of the male element having a reduced thickness, so that complete rotation of the female element is stopped by the portion of the base element having the full thickness.

Camera supports are used to support a camera during filming in order to provide a stable position of a camera, and which at the same time allow to move the camera along a desired trajectory of camera positions. By use of the camera support, the camera position may be moved in a controlled manner. Different types of camera supports are known in the field. These types for example includes steady-cams, jigs, rolling supports etc. These different cameras supports are typically used to provide a range of movement possibilities. With the increased availability of light-weight high quality cameras, filming at remote locations with only a small crew of, for example one or two persons becomes more accessible for people. In order to be able to create high quality films with interesting camera positions, it is desirable to use a camera support.

A drawback of known camera supports used for filming is that they are relatively heavy, single purpose and bulky. This makes these camera supports less suitable for transport, in particular as luggage to be carried or moved by a single person. As a result, filming at remote locations requires the inconvenient transportation of heavy and bulky camera supports, or has to be carried out without suitable camera supports. The first requires a large effort of a person that needs to transport the camera system. The latter has a substantial negative effect on the professional quality of the films made without a camera support.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a modular support system, and in particular a base element and bridge element for the modular support system, for assembling and constructing a camera support or other support structure which is easy to use, lightweight and versatile, wherein the elements can be interconnected in multiple ways and subsequently fully rotated relative to each other, and can be stored in a compact state.

The invention provides a base element, and a bridge element comprising two base elements, according to the preamble, for the modular support system for use in demountably assembling a camera support or other support structure, wherein two pivotal connection locations are provided at the first outer end and the second outer end of the base element, and wherein the pivotal connection locations comprise a centre pivot hole surrounded by multiple secondary holes arranged on at least a semicircle concentrically with the centre pivot hole and wherein the centre pivot hole (11) and the secondary holes (12) are through holes. The pivotal connection locations allow for easy interconnection at different angles and orientation of two base elements or of a base element with a support element comprising a pivotal connection location having a centre pivot hole surrounded by multiple secondary holes arranged on at least a semi-circle concentrically with the centre pivot hole. The centre pivot hole may be used to mount another part or element of the modular support system on the pivotal connection location, for example by using a bolt or pin. The secondary holes may be used to determine and fix a rotational position of the part mounted at the pivotal connection location by placing a locking pin or bolt through the secondary hole and the respective part that is connected at the pivotal connection location. The diameter of the centre pivot holes may be the same or different than the diameters of the secondary hole. For example, the diameter of the centre pivot hole may be 6 mm, and diameter of the secondary holes may be 4mm. The secondary holes may be equally distributed over the circumference of the circle. The number of holes may be any suitable number, for example in the range of 10 - 20 secondary holes, for instance in the range of 12-18 secondary holes, such as 12, 14, 16 or 18 holes. The radius of the circle may be in the range of 10 mm - 20 mm, for example in the range 13 mm - 16 m, such as about 14,1 mm. The thickness of the base or bridge element may be in the range of 2 mm - 8 mm, for example about 4 mm - about 5 mm.

Advantageously, the secondary holes are provided at mutual equal distance on the at least semi-circle, preferably all the secondary holes on the at least semi-circle are identical, each having a substantially circular shape with identical diameter. By using simple fastenings means like a bolt and nut or a pin shaped element, the base elements are easily interconnected, freely pivoting around the centre pivot holes or in a fixed position with respect to each other by using the secondary holes.

Preferably, the secondary holes are provided at mutual equal distance on a full circle. Now the possibilities of assembling two base elements at an angle are increased, thereby enhancing the versatility of the modular support system.

In particular, the number of the secondary holes for a full circle is chosen from the group: 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24; preferably the number of secondary holes for a full circle is chosen 16, so that the angle between the radii of two adjacent secondary holes is 22.5 degrees.

It has been found, that with secondary holes at mutual equal distance at an angle of 22.5 degrees a versatile basic element is obtained for a modular support system, with which easily a support structure is built. In an example, the pivotal connection locations are provided with circular grooves concentrically with the centre pivot hole, the circular grooves defining a guide ring between the circular groove and the centre pivot hole; preferable a second circular groove is provided between the guide ring and the centre pivot hole. When a hinging connection is needed between two pivotal connection locations of two connected elements, like base elements, the guide rings of both pivotal connection locations will be in direct contact, abutting each other, hereby enhancing the ease of pivoting the connected (base) elements with respect to each other.

Advantageously, the edge side of the base element comprises a chamfered edge. Providing chamfered edges on one or more edge sides of the bridge element, provides further possibilities to clamp other parts onto the bridge element.

The invention also relates to a bridge element for a modular support system, the bridge element comprising two base elements, wherein the bridge element is formed in one piece from the two base elements with an interconnecting centre portion, the centre portion being an elongate flat plate with substantially identical dimensions as the two base elements, wherein the first base element and the second base element are each arranged at an angle with respect to the length direction of the centre portion. A bridge element with these features has been found very useful, versatile and convenient in constructing different support structures like a camera support.

Preferably, two of the pivotal connection locations are arranged at the opposite outer ends of the first base element and the second base element, and two of the pivotal connection locations are arranged at the intersection of the centre portion with the first and second base elements. This configuration increases the possibilities of interconnecting elements and eases constructing the desired (camera) support.

In particular, the angle of the first base element with respect to the centre portion corresponds with the angle of the second base element with respect to the centre portion, preferably the angles are opposite to each other.

The pivotal connection locations comprises connection openings (the centre pivot hole and the secondary holes) that extend through the bridge element that are configured to facilitate mounting of another part of the modular support system in multiple pivotal positions using at least two fixation elements, such as a pivot pin or bolt or locking pin placed through the connection openings. The base or bridge element may have further connection openings distributed over the surface of the base or bridge element.

In an embodiment, the base and/or bridge element comprises chamfered edges.

In an embodiment of the bridge element, the angle of the first base element with respect to the centre portion and the angle of the second base element with respect to the centre portion correspond. The resulting shape is, in top view, wing shaped having a straight centre portion and angled end parts. Preferably, the bridge element is a one-piece part.

The invention provides a modular support system that can be used to assemble a camera support. As the elements of the modular support system are demountable, the elements can be stored in a compact manner. Moreover, the modular support system provides the possibility to assemble different types and/or different sizes of camera supports and other configurations that may for example be used to create travel gear and lightweight constructions, and other types of support structures. The modular support system therefore not only provides a light weight camera support that can be stored in a compact manner, but also the possibility to create different types of camera supports from a single modular support system .

The modular support system comprises a number of different parts. The main parts of the modular support system are a base element, a bridge element and a support element. The base element and the bridge element comprise an elongate plate shape. The elongate plate shape of the base element and the bridge element extends in a plane and comprises a first outer end and a second outer end opposite to the first outer end.

The support elements can be mounted on one of the two or more pivotal connection locations to form a first hinge between a base or bridge element and another part of the modular support system, for example a second bridge element. In an embodiment, the support elements are provided with a pivotal connection location identical to the pivotal connection location of the base element and/or the bridge element, so that the support elements can be connected to the base element and the bridge element.

Preferably, the system comprises a pivot pin arranged for interconnecting the pivotal connection location of a first one chosen from: base element, bridge element, support elements; to the pivotal connection location of another element or a second one chosen from: base element, bridge element, support elements; by introducing the pivot pin into the centre pivot holes in the aligned pivotal connection locations of the elements to be interconnected to form a first hinge.

The pivot pin may be a bolt-nut combination that allows the elements of the modular support system to be clamped in a desired pivot angle with respect to each other. During use the interconnected elements of the modular support system may freely pivot with respect to each other or be clamped in a fixed relative position. The bolt-nut combination may be used to create a friction between the two interconnected elements of the modular support system to create a force threshold that needs to be exceeded to change the pivot angle between the two interconnected elements of the modular support system.

In an example, a locking element is provided for locking the first hinge by means of a locking pin, arranged for insertion into the secondary holes of the interconnected pivotal connection locations.

Preferably, the locking element is provided with a first opening for receiving the pivot pin, and is provided with a second opening for receiving the locking pin. With a locking element, the angle between interconnected elements of the modular support system is easily adjusted, fixed and released.

In an embodiment, the support element is provided with a hinge portion for forming a second hinge by means of a hinge axis, by coupling the hinge portion of a first one of a support element to the hinge portion of a second one of a support element. Advantageously, a spring element is provided between the pivotal connection location of a first one chosen from: base element, bridge element, support elements; to the pivotal connection location of another element or a second one chosen from: base element, bridge element, support elements; wherein the outer ends of the spring are arranged to be inserted into the secondary holes of the first one chosen from: base element, bridge element, support elements; and into the secondary holes of the another element or the second one chosen from: a base element, bridge element, support elements. As a result, the first hinge formed between two interconnected pivotal connection locations is biased against pivoting from the starting, rest position.

The modular support system may be carried by a person. In an embodiment, the modular support system comprises a bag or suitcase in which the parts of the modular support system may be placed in a disassembled or a partly disassembled state, wherein the bag or suitcase can be carried by a person as a single unit. The bag or suitcase may be provided with a number of wheels to facilitate the transport of the bag or suitcase over a relatively flat ground surface.

The modular support system may comprise fixation elements, for example boltnut combinations or pins to connect at least two parts of the modular support system, for example two base and/or bridge elements, two support elements or a bridge element and a support element to each other by means of openings other than the openings of the pivotal connection locations.

In an embodiment, the modular support system further comprises one or more elongate rod elements that are connectable to the base element and or bridge element using an opening provided in the base or bridge element.

In an embodiment, the one or more rod elements comprise a rail configured to receive and hold a nut, wherein a bolt and the nut are used to mount the rod element to the bridge element or another part of the modular support system. The bolt can be placed through one of the openings of the pivotal connection locations or another opening in the bridge element or another part of the modular support system. In an embodiment, the side of the elongate rod opposite to the side of the rail element may be a flat surface or be provided with another rail. Further, the modular support system may include one or more of the following support elements: a connector, a connector may be created by clamping two connector elements on a bridge element. The connector elements may have a ridge that can cooperated with a chamfered edge of the bridge element; a hook element comprising two connection surfaces arranged at a non-zero angle with respect to each other, for example at an angle of 90 degrees. The connection surfaces may each be provided one or more connection openings to connect a bridge element other part of the modular support system; a rail element, such as a knob element, a guide element, or a slide element that can be mounted on or in the rail of a elongate rod element; a tube element, the tube element can be used as an elongate element in a camera support assembled by the modular support system. Connection with other parts can be made by placing, for example clamping, other parts on or in the tube element. a body harness, the body harness may be provided to carry the camera support by a human body; a wheel; one or more wheels may be provide to provide a rolling support of the camera support ton a ground surface.

The modular support system may also have further parts of support elements that are not specifically described above.

Any opening used for a connection such as connection openings and centre pivot holes and secondary holes of a pivotal connection location may be provided with a non-rounded space to receive a nut, wherein the non-rounded space prevents rotation of the nut when a bolt is screwed in or out of the nut. The non-rounded space preferably substantially corresponds with the outer surface of a nut. The non-rounded space may also be configured to hold a nut.

The invention further provides a camera support for supporting a film camera constructed from the modular support system. The modular support system of the invention is optimized to create camera supports that are easy to assembly, light weight and can be transported in a compact state. The versatility of the modular support system provides numerous possibilities to create camera supports that can be carried on the human body or placed on a ground surface. As a result, different types of camera supports can be created from a single modular support system. The modular support system of the invention therefore not only facilitates efficient transport of a camera support but also makes it possible to provide the user a broad range of possible (types of) camera supports without the need to bring a complete camera support for each type of camera support that is needed.

In an embodiment, the camera support comprises a movable arm, wherein the movable arm comprises two or more arms sections, wherein each arm section comprises at least one bridge element. The bridge element provides a versatile element that can be used to create different structures suitable to be used as a camera support. The bridge element, for example in combination with rod elements, may in particular be used to create arm sections of a movable arm of a camera support. The arm section may be connected to each other using hinge elements that form a hinge between two adjacent arm sections.

In an embodiment, the camera support comprises three arm sections. Three arm sections provide a versatile camera support that allows the camera to be moved in a controlled manner towards and along a broad range of camera positions.

In an embodiment, each arm section comprises two bridge elements and two rod elements connected to each other to form a four bar mechanism. The four bar mechanism provides a practical base structure that can be used as a movable, e.g. pivotable, or static arm section.

In an embodiment, one or more arm sections comprise an elongate spring or elastic cord to bias the four bar mechanism in a biasing direction. By providing an elongate spring or elastic cord in the arm section, for example in the four bar mechanism, the arm section can be biased in a biasing direction. Such elongate spring or elastic cord can for example be used to at least partially compensate gravitational forces acting on the distal end of an arm section. In this way the arm section can be placed in a stable pivot position without the need to continuously push the distal end of the arm section upwards.

In an embodiment, at least one of the one or more arm sections has an adjustable length. The length of the respective arm section can be made adjustable by providing one or more telescoping elements in the arm section. For example, in the four bar mechanism, each of the two rod elements may be replaced by two rod elements that are mounted telescopingly slidably with respect to each other. Also other telescoping elements may be used to create an arm section with adjustable length.

In an embodiment, the camera support comprises a camera support structure comprising at least one bridge element. In an embodiment, the camera support structure is formed by four bridge elements connected to each other in a rectangular shape. Such camera support structure is configured to directly hold the camera, preferably at the inner side of the rectangular structure. The rectangular structure is preferably held at its upper side by a distal end of a movable arm of the camera support to create a stable self-balancing support for the camera held by the camera structure.

In an embodiment, the camera support comprises multiple wheels that allow the camera support to be rolled over a ground surface. By providing wheels on the camera support, the camera support can be supported on a ground surface, while it still can be moved over the ground surface in a controlled manner.

In an embodiment, the camera support comprises a body harness. A body harness may be provide to allow a user to support the camera support with a body of the user.

An aspect of the invention also provides a method of filming using a camera support described hereabove, comprising the steps of: assembling elements and/or parts of the modular support system to form the camera support; filming; and de-assembling the camera support.

The modular support system may also be used to construct other types of support structures. The invention may therefore also provide a support structure constructed from the modular support system as described hereabove.

Embodiments of the invention will be described hereinafter, wherein reference is made to the accompanying drawings: Figure 1A shows an embodiment of a base element for a modular support system;

Figure 1 B shows a rear view of the bridge element of Figure 1 A;

Figure 2A shows an embodiment of a bridge element of an exemplary modular support system;

Figure 2B shows a rear view of the bridge element of Figure 2A;

Figure 3A shows a support element of the modular support system;

Figure 3B shown two interconnected support elements of Figure 3A forming a second hinge;

Figure 4 shows an embodiment of a fixed first hinge constructed from two base elements with a pivot pin, locking pin and locking element;

Figure 5 shows a partially exploded view of the interconnected base elements of Figure 4;

Figure 6 shows enlarged the locking element of Figure 4 and 5;

Figure 7 shows an embodiment of a first biased hinge between two base elements by means of a spring;

Figure 8 shows an embodiment of a connector formed by two connector elements of an exemplary modular support system;

Figure 9 shows an embodiment of a connector mounted on the bridge element of Figure 2A;

Figure 10 shows an embodiment of a hook element of an exemplary modular support system;

Figures 11A and 11 B shows embodiments of rail elements of an exemplary modular support system;

Figures 12A and 12B shows views on an embodiment of a tube adapter of an exemplary modular support system;

Figure 13 shows a first embodiment of a camera support assembled from a modular support system;

Figure 14 shows a second embodiment of a camera support assembled from a modular support system;

Figure 15 and 16 shows a third embodiment of a camera support assembled from a modular support system;

Figure 17 shows a music stand assembled from a modular support system;

Figure 18 shows a transport cart assembled from a modular support system; Figure 19 shows a bicycle rack assembled from a modular support system; Figure 20 shows a laptop support assembled from a modular support system; Figure 21 shows another embodiment of a transport cart assembled from a modular support system; and

Figure 22 shows a stroller assembled from a modular support system.

Figures 1-13 show different parts of a modular support system that can be used to assemble a camera support, in particular different types of camera supports. Figure 14-16 show three exemplary embodiments of camera supports that are based on the modular support system. Figures 17 to 22 show exemplary embodiments of other types of support structures based on the modular support system.

Figures 1A and 1 B show the front side and the rear side, respectively, of two different embodiments of the base element 1 , having slightly different (hole) configurations, for a modular support system suitable for assembling a camera support. The base element is generally denoted by reference numeral 1. The base element 1 is an elongate flat plate, have a front face 2, a rear face 3, a plate thickness d defining an edge side 4, which edge side 4 circumferentially extends around the base element 1. In a basic embodiment the thickness d of the plate is substantially constant, but in an more advanced embodiment the thickness may also vary by provided grooves and/or recesses or chamfered edges 4 or other portions with lesser or more material in the thickness direction. The elongate flat plate extends in one (horizontal) plane and comprises a first outer end 6 and a second outer end 7 opposite to the first outer end 6. Advantageously, the front face 2 and the rear face 3 are identical when the through holes are provided symmetrically in the base element 1. When the through holes are provided asymmetrically, the front face 2 and the rear face 3 will differ, when flipping the base element 1 with the front face 2 or rear face 3 downwards.

For example, the base element 1 has a thickness of 4 mm or 5 mm and may have any suitable length. The edge sides 4 of the base element 1 may be chamfered for clamping other parts on the base element 1 , for example a connector shown in Figure 8.

Each base element 1 comprises two (or more) pivotal connection locations 10.

The pivotal connection locations 10 consist of connection holes 11 , 12 that extend through the base element 1 , essentially forming through holes. The base element 1 comprises further connection openings 43 distributed over the surface of the bridge element 1.

The two pivotal connection locations 10 are arranged at opposite ends of the base element, one near the first outer end 6 and one near the second outer end 7. The pivotal connection locations 10 comprises a centre pivot hole 11 surrounded by multiple secondary holes 12 arranged on a semi-circle concentrically with the centre pivot hole 11. The centre pivot hole 11 and secondary holes 12 may be used to mount another element or part of the modular support system on the pivotal connection location 10 with a fixation element, for example a bolt, axis or pin. By selecting one of the secondary holes 12 to place a second fixation element, such as a locking pin, a pivotal position of the element or part mounted at the pivotal connection location 10 may be determined. Because the pivot hole 11 and the secondary holes 12 are through holes, the (base) elements with the pivotal connection locations 10 can be interconnected in all possible orientations of the (base) elements, like the front face 2 of a first one of the (base) elements to the front face 2 or to the rear face 3 of a second one of the (base) elements, and first outer end 6 of a first one of the (base) elements with first outer end 6 or second outer end 7 of a second one of the (base) elements, the first one of the (base) elements on top or at the bottom.

For example, the diameter of the centre pivot hole 11 is 6 mm, and the diameter of the secondary holes 12 is 4 mm. The nine secondary holes 12 of the semi-circle are equally distributed over the circumference of the circle at a mutual equal distance. The radius of the semi-circle is about 14,1 mm. The further connection openings 43 comprise larger openings having a diameter of 6 mm, and smaller connection holes having a diameter of 4 mm. The thickness of the base element 1 is preferably about 4 mm. In other embodiments, other dimensions and other configuration, both size and location, of connection holes may be applied.

The base element 1 comprises chamfered edges 4 that can be used to clamp parts or elements on a base element 1 or bridge element 40, as for example shown in Figure 9.

In Figures 1A, 1 B is further shown, that the pivotal connection locations 10 are provided with circular grooves 13a concentrically with the centre pivot hole 11. The circular grooves 13a define a guide ring 14 between the circular groove 13a and the centre pivot hole 11. When two pivotal connection locations are connected to each other, the guide rings 14 will contact each other and facilitate pivoting of the interconnected elements with respect to each other. An optional second circular groove 13b is also shown between the guide ring 14 and the centre pivot hole 11 , thereby reducing the surface of the guide ring and reducing the friction between the interconnected elements of the modular support system.

Figures 2A and 2B show the front side and the rear side, respectively, of two embodiments having slightly different (hole) configurations of a bridge element 40 for the modular support system. The bridge element 40 comprises two base elements 1a, 1 b, which are interconnected by a centre portion 45. The centre portion is an elongate flat plate with substantially identical dimensions as the two base elements 1a, 1 b, so that an one-piece bridge element is formed. Alternatively, the centre portion may be provided with a shape and/or dimension which departs from the elongate flat plate shown. The first base element 1a and the second base element 1 b are each arranged at an angle a, B with respect to the length direction L of the centre portion 45 of the bridge element 40. The bridge element 40 is provided with four pivotal connection locations 10; two pivotal connection locations 10 are arranged at opposite ends of the bridge element 40 and two of the pivotal connection locations 10 are arranged near the centre portion 45. The pivotal connection locations 10 of both base elements 1a, 1 b comprise a centre pivot hole 11 surrounded by multiple secondary holes 12 arranged on a full circle concentrically with the centre pivot hole 11. The centre pivot hole 11 and the secondary holes 12 are also used to mount another element or part of the modular support system on the pivotal connection location 10 with a fixation element, for example a bolt, axis or pin. By selecting one of the secondary holes 12 to place a second fixation element (locking pin), a pivotal position of the part mounted at the pivotal connection location 10 may be determined. Preferably, the size, shape and dimensions of the openings and holes are identical to the base elements of Figure 1A, 1 B. The number of the secondary holes 12 for a full circle is chosen from the group: 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24; preferably the number of secondary holes for a full circle is chosen 16, so that the angle between the radii of two adjacent secondary holes 12 is 22.5 degrees. The bridge element 40 also comprises chamfered edges 4 that can be used to clamp parts on the bridge element 40, as for example shown in Figure 9. The first base element 1a and the second base element 1 b of the bridge element 40 are arranged at an angle a, B with respect to the length direction L of the centre portion 45. Preferably, the angle a of the first base element 1a with respect to the centre portion 45 corresponds with the angle B of the second base element 1b with respect to the centre portion 45, preferably the angles a, B are opposite to each other The angles a, B may be in the range of 30 to 60 degrees, such as in the range of 40 to 50 degrees, but preferably the angles a, B are about 45 degrees.

Figure 3A and 3B show a support element 20 of the modular support system, suitable for configuring a second hinge. The support element 20 comprises a flat body with a pivotal connection location 10 corresponding to the pivotal connection locations 10 of the base element 1 and bridge element 40. Further, the support element 20 comprises a hinge portion 21 provided with hinge openings 22. The hinge openings 22 are aligned with each other to receive a pivot axis 23, for example a pivot pin or a bolt.

Figure 3B shows a second hinge formed from two support elements 20. It can be seen that the hinge portions 21 are located such that the hinge openings 22 of the hinge portions 21 of the support elements 20 are aligned and a first bolt-nut combination as pivot axis 23 and a second bolt-nut combination as locking axis 24 are arranged through hinge openings 22. The support elements 20 can be arranged in different angles with respect to each other. If only the pivot axis 23 is arranged in the hinge openings 13, the support elements may freely pivot with respect to each other, and possibly be clamped in one of these rotational positions. Because of the through holes of the pivotal connection locations 10, a base element 1 or bridge element 40 can be connected to the front face of the pivotal connection location 10 of a support element 20, where rotation is limited, or to the rear face, where the base or bridge element may be rotated freely.

If additionally the locking axis 24 is arranged in the hinge openings 22, as shown in Figure 3B, the support elements 20 can be arranged in fixed orientational positions of the support elements 20 with respect to each other. These fixed orientational positions are 0, 90 and 180 degrees. It is possible to arrange a torque spring in the hinge to bias the support elements to a biased position. In such embodiment, the connected support elements 20 may also be used as a clamping device in which the clamping force is provided by the torque spring. Figure 4 shows forming a first hinge by means of interconnecting two base elements 1a, 1b by means of fixation elements like a bolt-nut combination as a pivot pin 31. The pivot pin 31 is introduced into the centre pivot holes of the aligned pivotal connection locations 10 of both base elements 1a, 1b. Furthermore, a locking element 32 is provided for facilitating locking the two base elements 1a, 1 b in a chosen pivotal orientation. The first one of the base elements 1a is positioned on top of the second one of the base element 1 b; this may be easily changed, due to the versatile pivotal connection locations 10.

Figure 5 shows in a partially exploded view the interconnected base elements 1a, 1 b with the locking element 32 and the pivot pin 31 and a locking pin 34.

Figure 6 is an enlarge view of the locking element 32 with first opening 33 for receiving the pivot pin, and a second opening 35 for receiving the locking pin. By using locking element 32, the locking pin 34 may be introduced into secondary holes 12 of both base elements 1a, 1 b without the need of applying a nut. Now, the locking pin is easily and quickly introduced and removed from the secondary holes 12, so that the angle between the base elements may be easily adjusted. Preferably, the locking element 32 is made from a resilient material like a plastic or silicon material.

Figure 7 shows an example of a biased first hinge with spring element 36 being provided between the pivotal connection location 10 of a first one of a base element 1a, and the pivotal connection location 10 of a second one of a base element 1 b, wherein the outer ends of the spring element 36 are arranged to be able to be inserted into the secondary holes 12 of the first one of a base element 1a and into the secondary holes 12 of the second one of a base element 1 b. Now the formed first hinge between both base elements 1a, 1b may be biased in a pivoting direction, by pivoting the base elements 1a, 1 b with respect to each other in different directions from the rest position or starting position.

Figure 8 shows a connector 50. The connector 50 comprises two connector elements 51 and a bolt and nut combination 52. The bolt and nut combination 52 can be used to move the connector elements 51 towards each other. The connector elements 51 each comprise rims 53 formed by extensions 54. The rims 53 are configured to cooperate with the chamfered edges 8 of a bridge element 40 or of another element of the modular support system, for example a base element 1 . Figure 9 shows a connector 50 mounted on a bridge element 40. By pulling the connector elements 51 towards each other by the bolt and nut combination 52, while the edges 53 catch the chamfered edges 8 of the bridge element 1 , the connector 50 is clamped on the bridge element. The extensions 54 can be used to mount other parts or features on the connector 50. The extensions 54 of the embodiment shown in Figure 8 may be used to mount a camera.

Figure 10 shows a hook element 60 having two mounting surfaces 61 arranged at an angle of 90 degrees with respect to each other. The hook element 60 may be used to mount two parts, for example two bridge elements 40 at an angle of 90 degrees with respect to each other using pins or bolt extending through connection openings 62 provided in the hook element 60.

Figures 11A and 11 B show a number of rail elements, i.e. elements of the modular support system, that can be mounted on or in the rail 56 of a rod-shaped support element 55.

Figure 11A shows two knob elements 70 that can be mounted in the rail 56 of a rod element 55. The knob elements 70 can be arranged in a desired rotational position with respect to the rod elements 55 and mounted with a bolt and nut combination. The openings 71 can be used to connect other part to the knob elements 70.

Figure 11 B shows further rail elements, such as a slide element 75, a guide element 76 and a guide wheel 77. The rail elements 75, 76, 77 can be mounted on or in the rail 56 and slide in or over the rail 56. The rail elements can be mounted at a fixed position with respect to the rail 56 using bolt and nut combinations or other fixation elements.

Figures 12A and 12B show two views on a tube adapter 80 that can be mounted on a pivotal connection location 10 of a bridge element 40 or at another suitable location, for example to connect a tube element to a flat surface. One side 81 of the be adapter 80 is flat and the opposite side 82 of the tube adapter 80 comprises an indent 83. Two tube adapters 80 connected to each other by bolt-nut combinations, for example extending through fixation openings 84 with the sides 82 facing towards each other form a clamp in which a tube placed in the indents 83 can be clamped.

Figure 13 shows a first embodiment of a camera support 100 constructed from the modular support system according to an embodiment of the invention. The camera support 100 comprises a body harness 101 that can be worn by a user 500 and a support arm mounted on the body harness 101. The support arm comprises a proximal arm section 102, a middle arm section 103 and a distal arm section 104. At the distal end of the distal arm section 104 a rectangular shaped camera support structure 105 is provided. The camera support structure 105 is constructed from four bridge elements 40 connected to each other by hinges formed by support elements 20.

The camera support structure 105 is held at its upper side by the distal arm section 104 of the camera support 100 to create a stable self-balancing support for the camera 600 held by the camera support structure 105.

Each arm section 102, 103, 104 comprises two bridge elements 40 and two rod elements 55 connected to each other to form a four bar mechanism. The four bar mechanism provides a practical base structure that can be used as a movable, e.g. pivotable, or static arm section. In an embodiment, each of the two rod elements 55 of one or more of the arm sections 102, 103, 104 may be replaced by two or more telescoping rod elements 55 or other telescoping elements such that the length of the respective arm section is adjustable.

The distal bridge element 40 of the proximal arm section 102 is mounted with support elements 20 to the proximal bridge element 40 of the middle arm section 103. Correspondingly, the distal bridge element 40 of the middle arm section 103 is mounted with support elements 20 to the proximal bridge element 40 of the distal arm section 104. The distal bridge element 40 of the distal arm section is mounted with support elements 20 to the proximal bridge element 40 of the distal arm section 104. Further, the middle arm section 103 and the distal arm section 104 comprise an elongate spring or elastic cord 106 mounted between the two rod elements 55 to bias the four bar mechanism in a biasing direction. By providing an elongate spring or elastic cord in the arm section, to at least compensate gravitational forces acting on the distal end of a respective arm section 103, 104. In this way the arm section 103, 104 can be placed in a stable pivot position without the need to continuously push the distal end of the arm section upwards.

The upper rod element 55 of the proximal arm section 201 is connected to a cable 107 which is guided via a pully 108 to a further spring 109. The spring 109 exerts via the cable 107 an upwards force on the proximal arm section 201 to at least partially compensate gravitational forces acting on the support arm. Figure 14 shows a second embodiment of a camera support 200 constructed from the modular support system according to an embodiment of the invention. This camera support 200 is constructed from four bridge elements 40, a number of support elements 20 and support pads 201 mounted on the hinge elements. The support pads 201 are arranged to be placed on the shoulder of a user. A spring 202 is arranged to pull the bridge element 40 on which the camera 600 is mounted towards the shoulder on which the camera support 200 is carried. This embodiment shows that a relatively simple camera support 200 can easily be constructed from the modular support system. It will be clear that when the camera support 200 is disassembled, the parts and elements of the camera support can be stored and transported in a compact manner, for example in a back pack or normal size suitcase.

Figures 15 and 16 shows a third embodiment of a camera support 300 constructed from the modular support system according to an embodiment of the invention. This camera support 300 is provided with wheels 301 that allow the camera support 300 to be rolled over a ground surface. The wheels are mounted via hinge elements 10 to bridge elements 1 that form a chassis of the wheeled camera support. Further bridge elements 1 and rod elements 20 are used to construct an extendible camera support 300. The camera support 300 comprises three main frame structures that each comprise two rod elements and two bridge elements connected to each other. The main frame structures are mounted translatable with respect to each other to move a camera 600 between a lower position (Figure 15) and an upper position (Figure 16).

In Figure 15 the camera support 300 is shown in retracted position and in Figure 16 the camera support 300 is shown in extended position. A spring 302 is connected to a set of cables 303 that is guided via pullies 304 along the different main frame structures to at least partially counteract the gravitational forces exerted on the main frame structures to allow an easy displacement between the lower position and the higher position.

The embodiments of Figures 13, 14, 15 and 16 are only exemplary embodiments of camera supports that can be constructed with the modular support system of the invention. It will be clear for the skilled person that other embodiments of the same of other types of camera supports may be constructed with the modular support system in dependence of the need of the user. Since the camera support may be disassembled after use, the camera support may be transported in a compact manner.

The application of the modular support system is not limited to assembling camera supports. The modular support system may also be used to assemble other types of support structures.

Figures 17 to 22 show exemplary embodiments of support structures based on the modular support system.

Figure 17 shows a music stand 700 constructed from bridge elements 40, support elements 20 and rod elements 55 that are mounted to each other using bolts and nuts.

Figure 18 shows a transport cart 710 constructed from bridge elements 40, support elements 20, rod elements 55 and four wheels. The transport cart 710 may for example be used to transport a cello transport case as shown in Figure 18.

Figure 19 shows a bicycle rack 720 constructed from the modular support system, including bridge elements 40, support elements 20, rod elements 55 and tube adapters 80. The tube adapters 80 of the bicycle rack 720 are used to mount the bicycle rack 720 on a bicycle steer 725.

Figure 20 shows a laptop support 730 constructed from elements and parts of the modular support system, including bridge elements 40 and support elements 20.

Figures 21 and 22 show a transport cart 740 and a stroller 750 constructed from the modular support system, including bridge elements 40, support elements 20, rod elements 55 and wheels.