Spreader mechanisms for supporting tripod legs
US6769654B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 14, 2003 |
| Grant date | Aug 3, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 25, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16M11/34
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The disclosure relates to a spreader mechanism for supporting the legs (11) of a tripod erect, comprising a hub (13) having a central axis, three arms (14) pivotally mounted on the hub at positions equi-spaced around the hub to swing with respect to the hub axis between extended and folded positions. A drive mechanism (19, 22) coordinates movement of the arms so that all three arms remain in the same relationship to the hub axis throughout the range of movement of the arms, and a locking device (26, 29, 30, 31, 32) locks the drive mechanism against movement at any position throughout the range of movement of the arms. The locking device may be released held by a push button operated mechanism (50, 51, 36, 34) to allow adjustment of the spreader member and the holding means is deactivated to allow engagement of the locking device to lock the arms in a selected position of adjustment.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.