WO2017027951A1

WO2017027951A1 - Mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object

Info

Publication number: WO2017027951A1
Application number: PCT/CA2015/000465
Authority: WO
Inventors: Timothy James John PRIAMO
Original assignee: KEWIN, James, Patrick, Shea
Priority date: 2015-08-17
Filing date: 2015-08-17
Publication date: 2017-02-23

Abstract

A mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object comprises an object engagement portion for secure attachment to the object. A first camera-retaining loop portion fits around a first portion of a camera and a second camera-retaining loop portion for fitment around a second portion of a camera. The first camera-retaining loop portion and the second camera-retaining loop portion are disposed in surrounding relation around the object engagement portion. The camera is captured by the first camera -retaining loop portion and the second camera-retaining loop portion to thereby be mounted adjacent the object.

Description

MOUNTING APPARATUS FOR MOUNTING A CAMERA ADJACENT AN OBJECT

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to mounting apparatuses for mounting a camera adjacent an object, and more particularly to mounting apparatuses for mounting a camera in removable and replaceable relation adjacent an object, such as a helmet.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] It is common for persons to make video recordings of activities that they are participating in.

Such video recordings have become increasingly popular in recent years with the universal popularity of appropriately equipped cellular telephones and computer tablets, and the like. Further, more recently, it has become common to use cameras, which are typically referred to as action cameras or sports cameras, to capture action for persons participating in physical activities. One such company that develops, manufactures and markets such action cameras or sports cameras is GoPro, Inc. of San Mateo, California. The problem of actually mounting or in some way holding a camera device such that it can capture action for persons participating in fast-paced physical activities such as hockey, lacrosse, football, baseball, basketball, soccer, snowsports and so on, has come to the forefront in recent years as a growing number of persons attempt to make video recordings of such video action.

[0003] There are various types of ways to mount a camera onto a person directly or onto objects that a person might be wearing or using, such as a ηβΐιηεζ a bicycle, a surfboard, and so on. The most common ways include (1) a base that mounts on the receiving object by an adhesive and either an attachment mechanism that slides into the base and is secured by friction or a click-lock type arrangement, or by threaded engagement, (2) a hook-and- loop fastening system (Velcro™) and, (3) where appropriate, directly and solidly mounting the base of the camera to the object using threaded fasteners. [0004] Activities like these often leave a user with a bulky mounting option that adds weight and complexity for the user and also poses risks related to safety and the efficacy of whether mount will suffice in prolonged periods of physical activity.

[0005] Various problems exist with these various ways to mount a camera, including obtrusiveness, safety, universality of mounting to various objects, difficulty in accommodating various sizes and shapes of receiving objects such as helmets, difficulty in having the camera be removably and replaceably mountable, having the mount aesthetically match the shape and features of the helmet, and accommodating various sizes and types of cameras, secureness of mounting, adding significant weight to the object, getting a viewing angle closer to the eyes, and potentially voiding warranties of the receiving object.

[0006] In order develop a camera mount that overcomes these potential problems, the present inventor tried various options that worked to some degree, but still exhibited various problems. Initially, camera was installed in a visor, but this method is limited to visors only and had other disadvantages, such as various shapes and curvatures of visors, manufacturing complexity, safety risks, size tolerances, keeping it from being a distraction in the field of view, acheiving a proper viewing angle across all visors, accommodating the angle of the visor when it is tilted upward, and lack of universatillity of fit for other sports equipment.

[0007] Subsequently, a pair of "camera glasses" were doctored and prototyped to fit to a helmet. This method had other disadvantages, such as the apparatus occupying more area on the helmet than is desirable and also occupying space on the sides or upper sides of the helmet thereby making the apparatus more susceptible to impact and injury of the wearer. Also, the proper curve needs to sit flush on the helmet verses finding the most common curve directly in the centre of the front of the helmet, which also means that the apparatus would require some securement to the sides of the helmet, which would be problematic.

[0008] Next, a camera housing was designed to snap onto a cage or a face shield so that the manufacturer's warranty of the helmet would not be voided, and so that the camera would sit flush and mconspicous for a user, and would have an accurate point of view nearly in line with the eyes of a user. An attempt was made through various industrial design concepts and mold configurations. Again, it was found that this configuration would be more confined to working with only certain cages and facemasks and that the camera would be less umversal across other applications and whereby the camera was more likely to intrude the view of the user.

[0009] Next, a camera housing with flexing elements was developed in order to reduce gaps between the camera and the receiving object, namely a helmet. An attempt was made to match as many forms as possible. Again, it was found that there were disadvantages with this arrangement, in that even though the reduction of gaps between the camera and the helmet Is useful, it didn't address other significant problems that needed to be overcome.

[00010] Early in the development process, it was unexpectedly realized that utilizing the two front mounting apertures or two side mounting apertures in a helmet would be very useful to mount the camera. Although this was focused on for a while, other attempts at improving the invention were made. After considerable experimentation in various directions, it was realized that utilizing the two front mounting apertures or two side mounting apertures in a helmet was extremely useful. These two apertures are conventionally designed for receiving the threaded fasteners that fasten the facemask to the helmet. Using these mounting apertures would be highly advantageous in that the helmet is not tampered with, and the material integrity of the helmet is maintained. The challenge with mounting a camera using these mounting apertures is that there are a number of parameters that differ between helmets, including the distance between pairs of mounting apertures, the curvature of the helmet, the differing regressing slopes of the helmets, the variance in smoothness of the surfaces and the types of facemasks or visors also possibly being secured to the helmet, and so on. The many different combinations of these differing parameters, especially from sport to sport, presents a significant challenge in terms of providing a mounting apparatus that could be usable across a large variety of helmets, and possibly even other receiving objects.

[000111 Ultimately, a strap type of arrangement that utilized the existing mounting apertures of a helmet were tried and improved on until the present invention was arrived at.

[00012] A search of the prior art has uncovered the following somewhat relevant prior art documents.

[00013] The closest known prior art is a hook-and-loop (Velcro™) type camera mount found at www .aishine.com that has a base portion permanently secured to a helmet to present one of either the hooks or loops of the hook-and-loop (Velcro™) type fastening system. The other one of either the hooks or loops of the hook-and- loop (Velcro™) type fastening system is presented at the outer periphery of three loops permanently secured around a tubular camera.

[00014] One relevant prior art document is United States Patent No. 5,583,571 issued December 10, 1996 to Fnedland, and entitled Hands Free Video Camera System. The Fnedland patent discloses a self-contained hands free video recording system having a band that is worn around the waist or the head of the user. A rigid plastic "Z" member is disposed on the belt and supports a camera within an elastic sleeve carried by the belt. Alternatively, the rigid plastic "Z" can be carried by a helmet.

[00015] Another relevant prior art document is United States Patent No. 8,342,758 issued January 1, 2013 to Braithwaite, and entitled Camera Device. The Braithwaite patent discloses a camera head mount comprising a strap for encircling the head and means, such as Velcro™ or a buckle, for securing the strap around the head. A camera holding pocket on the strap substantially encloses a camera and is situated to hold a camera in a forward- facing position against the forehead of the user with the camera lens pointing forwardly.

[00016] It is an object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object. [00017] It is an object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object, wherein the camera is unobtrusive.

[00018] It is an object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object, wherein the positioning of the camera is safe for the user.

[00019] It is an object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object, which mounting apparatus permits universality of mounting to various objects.

[00020] It is an object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera wherein various sizes and shapes of receiving objects, such as helmets, are accommodating.

[00021] It is an object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera wherein various sizes and shapes of receiving objects, such as helmets, are accommodated.

[00022] It is an object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera wherein the camera is removably and replaceably mountable on the receiving object.

[00023] It is an object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera wherein the mount aesthetically matches the shape and features of the receiving object.

[00024] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera, which mounting apparatus is robust. [000251 It ^{ls a} further object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera, which mounting apparatus is resistant to impact.

[00026] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera, which mounting apparatus is inexpensive to manufacture.

[00027] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera, which mounting apparatus is easy to manufacture.

[00028] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera, which mounting apparatus provides for secure mounting of a camera.

[00029] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera, which mounting apparatus does not add significant weight to the object.

[00030] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera, which mounting apparatus does not void warranties of the receiving object.

[00031] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera, which mounting apparatus permits an adjustable viewing angle.

[00032] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera, which mounting apparatus permits the camera to be close to the user's eyes. [00033] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera, which mounting apparatus permits the camera to be almost at the surface of the helmet, thereby minimizing protrusion of the camera.

[00034] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera, which mounting apparatus is not bulky.

[00035] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera, which mounting apparatus significantly resists accidental removal of the camera therefrom and readily permits selected removal of the camera therefrom.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[00036] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object. The mounting apparatus comprises an object engagement portion for secure attachment to the object; a first camera-retaining loop portion retained by the object engagement portion for fitment around a first portion of a camera; and a second camera-retaining loop portion retained by the object engagement portion for fitment around a first portion of a camera. The first camera-retaining loop portion and the second camera-retaining loop portion are disposed in surrounding relation around the object engagement portion. In use, the object engagement portion is securely attachable to the object with the first camera-retaining loop portion and the second camera-retaining loop portion retained by the object engagement portion. The camera is captured by the first camera-retaining loop portion and the second camera-retaining loop portion to thereby be mounted adjacent the object. [000371 In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel combination camera, object, and mounting apparatus comprising a camera; an object for mounting the camera thereon; and a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent said object; an object engagement portion for secure attachment to the object; a first cam era -retaining loop portion retained by the object engagement portion for fitment around a first portion of a camera; and a second camera-retaining loop portion retained by the object engagement portion for fitment around a first portion of a camera. The first cam era -retaining loop portion and the second camera-retaining loop portion are disposed m surrounding relation around the object engagement portion. In use, the object engagement portion is securely attachable to the object with the first camera-retaining loop portion and the second camera-retaining loop portion retained by the object engagement portion. The camera is captured by the first camera-retaining loop portion and the second camera-retaining loop portion to thereby be mounted adjacent the object.

[00038] In accordance with another aspect of the present mvention there is disclosed a novel invention as found in a camera mountable adjacent an object, a camera body comprising a wider central portion; a narrower right side portion extending between the wider central portion and a free right end, and wherein the narrower right side portion tapers from the wider central portion to the free right end; and a narrower left side portion extending between the wider central portion and a free left end, and wherein the narrower left side portion tapers from the wider central portion to the free left end.

[00039] Other advantages, features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the structure, and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, the latter of which is briefly described herein below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [000401 The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object according to the present invention, as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently known embodiment of the invention will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the accompanying drawings:

[00041] Figure 1 is a perspective view from the front right side of a first illustrated embodiment of the mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object according to the present invention, with a camera mounted in place on an object, namely a helmet;

[00042] Figure 2 is a perspective elevational view similar to Figure 1, but with the camera removed from the object engagement portion;

Figure 3 is an exploded perspective elevational view similar to Figure 1 , but with the object engagement portion, the first camera-retaining loop portion, and the second camera-retaining loop portion shown separated from the helmet;

[00043] Figure 4 is a front elevational view of the first illustrated embodiment of the mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object of Figure 1 ;

[00044] Figure 5 is a side elevational view of the first illustrated embodiment of the mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object of Figure 1 ; [00045] Figure 6 is an enlarged perspective elevational view of a portion of the first illustrated embodiment of the mounting apparatus, camera and helmet of Figure 1 ;

[00046] Figure 7 is an enlarged front elevational view of a portion of the first illustrated embodiment of the mounting apparatus, camera and helmet of Figure 1 ;

[00047] Figure 8 is an enlarged side elevational view of a portion of the first illustrated embodiment of the mounting apparatus, camera and helmet of Figure 1 ;

[00048] Figure 9 is an enlarged top plan view of a portion of the first illustrated embodiment of the mounting apparatus, camera and helmet of Figure 1 ;

[00049] Figure 10 is an enlarged perspective view similar to Figure 6, but with the camera removed from the mounting apparatus and helmet;

[00050] Figure 11 is an enlarged front elevational view similar to Figure 7, but with the camera removed from the mounting apparatus and helmet;

[00051] Figure 12 is an enlarged side elevational view similar to Figure 8, but with the camera removed from the mounting apparatus and helmet;

[00052] Figure 13 is an enlarged top plan view similar to Figure 9, but with the ca era removed from the mounting apparatus and helmet;

[00053] Figure 14 is a perspective view from the front and right side of a second illustrated embodiment of the mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object according to the present invention; [00054] Figure 15 is an enlarged perspective view from the front and right side of a third illustrated embodiment of the mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object according to the present invention;

[00055] Figure 16 is a perspective view from the front and right side of a fourth illustrated embodiment of the mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object according to the present invention; and,

[00056] Figure 17 is a perspective view similar to Figure 16, but with the camera removed from the object engagement portion.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATEDED EMBODIMENTS

[00057] Referring to Figures 1 through 17 of the drawings, it will be noted that Figures 1 through 13 show a first illustrated embodiment of the mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object according to the present invention, Figure 14 illustrates a second illustrated embodiment of the mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object according to the present invention, Figure 15 illustrates a third illustrated embodiment of the mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object according to the present invention, and Figures 16 and 17 show a fourth illustrated embodiment of the mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object according to the present invention.

[00058] Reference will now be made to Figures 1 through 13, which show a first illustrated embodiment of the present invention. In brief, first illustrated embodiment of the present invention comprises a mounting apparatus 100 for mounting a camera 110 adjacent an object 120. In the first illustrated embodiment, the object 120 comprises a helmet 120, but could also comprise any other suitable object 120 on which cameras 110 can be mounted. The helmet show is a conventional hockey helmet but could also be a helmet for football, baseball, bicycling, skiing or snowboarding, and so on.

[00059] Further, the camera 110 includes a camera body 112 that extends between a free right end 113 and a free left end 114, and comprises a wider central portion 115 that presents the camera lens 116. A narrower right side portion 117 extends between the wider central portion 115 and the free right end 1 13, with the narrower right side portion 117 tapering from the wider central portion 115 to the free right end 1 13. Similarly, a narrower left side portion 118 extends between the wider central portion 115 and the free left end 114, with the narrower left side portion 1 18 tapering from the wider central portion 1 15 to the free left end 114. Also, the camera body 1 12 has a concavely curved rear surface 1 19 for engaging a convexly curved object 120, such as the front 121 of a helmet 120. It has been found that having an appropriately curved concavely curved rear surface 119 was useful in order to fit a wide variety of helmet types and sizes, and also have the camera body 1 12 be a robust in use.

[00060] In brief, the first illustrated embodiment the mounting apparatus 100 comprises object engagement portion 130, a first camera-retaining loop portion 140, and a second camera-retaining loop portion 150.

[00061] As can be readily seen in the Figures, the object engagement portion 130 is for secure attachment to the object 120, namely the helmet 120, and is preferably expandable and retractable, and even more preferably is elastically expandable and retractable. As illustrated, and for the benefit of ready and inexpensive manufacture, the object engagement portion 130 comprises a separate object engagement portion 130 and is a single piece of material. More specifically, the object engagement portion 130 comprises a length of stretchy elastic strap having a first end 131 and an opposite second end 132. It is preferable that the object engagement portion 130 be elastically expandable and retractable so as to snugly fit in place against the receiving object 120, namely the helmet 120.

[00062] As can be readily seen in the Figures, the object engagement portion 130 has a first securing point

133 and a second securing point 134, for secure attachment at the first securing point 133 and a second securing point 134 to the object 120. More specifically, the first securing point 133 comprises a first aperture 133 disposed adjacent the first end 131 of the object engagement portion 130, and the second securing point 134 comprises a second aperture 134 disposed adjacent the second end 132 of the object engagement portion 130. Each of the first aperture 133 and the second aperture 134 is shaped and dimension to receive a suitably sized conventional threaded fastener 136 therethrough. The conventional threaded fasteners 136 each extend through apertures 126 in the face mask mount 127 to engage a co-operating female threaded aperture 128 in the front brim 129 of the helmet 120. In this manner, the object engagement portion 130 is readily securable in removable and replaceable relation to the helmet 120. The length of the object engagement portion 130, or in other words the distance from the first end 131 to the second end 132 of the object engagement portion 130, and also the distance between the first aperture 133 and the second aperture 134, can be selected according to the distance between the first aperture 133 and the second aperture 134. Accordingly, any length of spacing between the first aperture 133 and the second aperture 134 can be accommodated by the object engagement portion 130.

[00063] The first camera-retaining loop portion 140 is retained by the object engagement portion 130 for fitment around a first portion of the camera 1 10, specifically the narrower right side portion 1 17 of the camera 110. Similarly, the second camera-retaining loop portion 150 is retained by the object engagement portion 130 for fitment around the narrower second portion 118 of the camera 110. The first camera-retaining loop portion 140 and the second camera-retaining loop portion 150 are preferably each expandable and retractable, and in the first illustrated embodiment, are more preferably elastically expandable and retractable. As illustrated, the first camera-retaining loop portion 140 and the second camera-retaining loop portion 150 each comprise an elastic strap. The first camera- retaining loop portion 140 and the second camera-retaining loop portion 150 are disposed in surrounding relation around the object engagement portion 130, and are substantially the same circumference one as the other. The object engagement portion 130 also extends through the first camera-retaining loop portion 140 and the second camera-retaining loop portion 150. Further, the first cam era -retaining loop portion 140 and the second camera- retaining loop portion 150 are disposed in sliding relation around the object engagement portion such that the first camera-retaining loop portion 140 and the second camera-retaining loop portion 150 can be positioned as desired along the length of the object engagement portion 130. It can readily be seen that the first camera-retaining loop portion 140 and the second camera-retaining loop portion 150 basically harness the camera 110 in place such that the camera 110 will not accidentally fall out of the mounting apparatus 100 or otherwise be accidentally dislodged from the mounting apparatus 100, but can move slightly for adjustment purposes or if impacted.

[00064] As can be seen in Figure 14, which is a second illustrated embodiment of the present invention, as indicated by the general reference numeral 200, the object engagement portion 230 is significantly longer than the object engagement portion 130 in the first illustrated embodiment, and the first camera-retaining loop portion 240 and the second camera-retaining loop portion 250 can be moved to any position along the object engagement portion 230, thereby allowing the camera 210 to be aimed partially sidewardly or fully sidewardly, as desired.

[00065] In the first illustrated embodiment, the first camera-retaining loop portion 140 comprises a separate first camera-retaining loop 140 and the second camera-retammg loop portion 150 comprises a separate second camera-retaining loop 140. Basically, the object engagement portion 130 is inserted through the first camera-retaining loop 140 and the second camera-retaining loop 150. For the benefit of ready and inexpensive manufacture, the first camera-retaining loop 140 and the second camera-retaining loop 150 preferably each comprise a stretchy elastic strap. Also for the benefit of ready and inexpensive manufacture, the separate first camera- retaining loop 140 comprises a single piece of material and the separate second camera-retaining loop comprises a single piece of material 150.

[00066] As can be readily seen m the Figures and as stated above, the object engagement portion 130 has a first securing point 133 and a second securing point 134, for secure attachment at the first securing point 133 and a second securing point 134 to the object 120. The first securing point 133 and the second securing point 134 of the object engagement portion 130 are separated one from the other to align with the co-operating female threaded apertures in the front brim 129 of the helmet 120, and are for receiving the first camera-retaining loop portion 140 and the second camera -retaining loop portion 150 between the first securing point 133 and the second securing point 134 of the object engagement portion 130.

[00067] In use, the object engagement portion 130 is securely attachable to the object 120 by the conventional threaded fasteners 136, with the first camera-retaining loop portion 140 and the second camera- retaining loop portion 150 retained by the object engagement portion 130. The first camera-retaining loop portion 140 and the second camera-retaining loop portion 150 are thereby positioned to receive and retain the camera 110 by the first camera-retaining loop portion 140 and the second camera-retaining loop portion 150 to thereby be mounted adjacent the object 120. The camera 110 is inserted in removable and replaceable relation by inserting one of the narrower right side portion 117 and the narrower left side portion 118 of the camera 110 into the corresponding one of the first camera-retaining loop portion 140 and the second camera-retaining loop portion 150, respectively, and then inserting the other one of the narrower right side portion 117 and the narrower left side portion 1 18 of the camera 110 into the other one of the first camera-retaining loop portion 140 and the second camera-retaining loop portion 150. In this manner, the camera 110 is mounted on the helmet 120 in a forward facing orientation, or in other words with the lens facing fowardly, to make video recordings of action scenarios such as sports events, from the perspective of a participant.

[00068] Reference will now be made to Figure 15, which shows a third illustrated embodiment of the present invention, as indicated by the general reference numeral 300. The third illustrated embodiment of the present invention 300 is similar to the first illustrated embodiment of the present invention 300 except that the first camera-retaining loop portion 340 and the second camera-retaining loop portion 350 are a unitary loop twisted to form a figure "8". The two loop portions of the figure "8", namely the first camera-retaining loop portion 340 and the second camera-retaining loop portion 350, each have the object engagement portion 330 inserted into both of the first camera-retaining loop portion 340 and the second camera-retaining loop portion 350, and the first camera- retaining loop portion 340 and the second camera-retaining loop portion 350 are disposed in surrounding relation around the object engagement portion 330. An unexpected advantage of this embodiment is that in the event the camera (not specifically shown) is impacted, the first camera-retaining loop portion 340 and the second camera- retaining loop portion 350 cannot significantly separate one from the other, which is possible in the first and second embodiments. Accordingly, the camera (not specifically shown) would not fall out if impacted.

[00069] Reference will now be made to Figures 16 and 17, which show a fourth illustrated embodiment of the present invention, as indicated by the general reference numeral 400. The fourth illustrated embodiment of the present invention 400 is similar to the first illustrated embodiment of the present invention 100 except that the object engagement portion 430 is more elongate and is looped back onto itself and fastened to itself, thus allowing the object engagement portion 430 to loop around an object (not specifically shown) such as a helmet, a user's head, and so on, so that the camera can be mounted onto a variety of receiving objects.

[00070] In another aspect, the present invention is a combination camera, an object such as a helmet for mounting the camera thereon, and a mounting apparatus as discussed fully above with reference to the four illustrated embodiments.

[00071] Another advantage of the present invention that has been realized through experimentation and use is that in any of the embodiments discussed above, the camera 110,210,310,410 and the first camera-retaining loop portion 140,240,340,440 and the second camera-retaining loop portion 150,250,350,450 can together slide along the object engagement portion 130,230,330,430 in the event of impact, thus lessening the chance of damage to the camera and the loop positions. This advantage has unexpectedly been found to be extremely important and advantageous, and not achievable with other prior art camera mounting systems.

[00072] Another advantage that has been found is that the camera 110,210,310,410 can be tilted at an upward or downward angle by the inclusion of a wedge or the like behind the camera.

[00073] As can be understood from the above description and from the accompanying drawings, the present invention provides a mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object, wherein the camera is unobtrusive, wherein the positioning of the camera is safe for the user, which mounting apparatus permits universality of mounting to various objects, wherein various sizes and shapes of receiving objects, such as helmets, are accommodated, wherein various sizes and shapes of receiving objects, such as helmets, are accommodated, wherein the camera is removably and replaceably mountable on the receiving object, wherein the mount aesthetically matches the shape and features of the receiving object, which mounting apparatus is robust, which mounting apparatus is resistant to impact, which mounting apparatus is inexpensive to manufacture, which mounting apparatus is easy to manufacture, which mounting apparatus provides for secure mounting of a camera, which mounting apparatus does not add significant weight to the object, which mounting apparatus does not void warranties of the receiving object, which mounting apparatus permits an adjustable viewing angle, which mounting apparatus permits the camera to be close to the user's eyes, and which mounting apparatus permits the camera to be almost at the surface of the helmet, thereby minimizing protrusion of the camera, which mounting apparatus is not bulky, and which mounting apparatus significantly resists accidental removal of the camera therefrom and readily permits selected removal of the camera therefrom, all of which features are unknown in the prior art.

[00074] Other variations of the above principles will be apparent to those who are knowledgeable in the field of the invention, and such variations are considered to be within the scope of the present invention. Further, other modifications and alterations may be used in the design and manufacture of the mounting apparatus, of the present invention, without departing from the spirit and scope of the accompanying claims.

[00075] Other variations are within the spirit of the present invention. Thus, while the invention is susceptible to various* modifications and alternative constructions, a certain illustrated embodiment thereof is shown m the drawings and has been described above in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form or forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims. [000761 The use of the terms "a" and "an" and "the" and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising", "having", "including", and "containing" are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to,") unless otherwise noted. The term "connected" is to be construed as partly or wholly contained withm, attached to, or joined together, even if there is something intervening. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., "such as", "for example") provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

[00077] Illustrated embodiments of this invention are described herein. Variations of those illustrated embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventor expects skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventor intends for the invention to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements m all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A mounting apparatus for mounting a camera adjacent an object, said mounting apparatus comprising: an object engagement portion for secure attachment to said object; a first camera-retaining loop portion retained by said object engagement portion for fitment around a first portion of a camera; and, a second camera-retaining loop portion retained by said object engagement portion for fitment around a first portion of a camera; wherein said first camera-retaining loop portion and said second camera-retaining loop portion are disposed in surrounding relation around said object engagement portion;

wherein, in use, said object engagement portion is securely attachable to said object with said first camera-retaining loop portion and said second cam era -retaining loop portion retained by said object engagement portion; and, wherem said camera is captured by said first camera-retaining loop portion and said second camera-retaining loop portion to thereby be mounted adjacent said object.

2. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 1, wherein said first camera-retaining loop portion and said second camera-retaining loop portion are each expandable and retractable.

3. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 2, wherein said first camera-retaining loop portion and said second cam era -retaining loop portion are elastically expandable and retractable.

4. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 3, wherein said first camera-retaining loop portion and said second camera-retaining loop portion comprise an elastic strap.

5. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 1, wherein said first camera-retaining loop portion and said second camera-retaining loop portion are disposed in sliding relation around said object engagement portion.

6. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 1, wherein said first camera-retaining loop portion and said second camera-retaining loop portion are substantially the same circumference one as the other.

7. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 1, wherein said first camera-retaining loop portion comprises a separate first camera-retaining loop and said second camera- retaining loop portion comprises a separate second camera-retaining loop.

8. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 7, wherein said first camera-retaining loop and said second camera-retaining loop each comprise an elastic strap.

9. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 7, wherein said separate first camera-retaining loop comprises a single piece of material and said separate second camera- retaining loop comprises a single piece of material.

10. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 1, wherein said object engagement portion is expandable and retractable.

11. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 10, wherein said object engagement portion is elastically expandable and retractable.

12. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 7, wherein said object engagement portion comprises a separate object engagement portion.

13. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 12, wherein said object engagement portion comprises a single piece of material.

14. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 1, wherein said object engagement portion has a first securing point and a second securing ροίηζ for secure attachment at said first securing point and a second securing point to said object, and wherein said first securing point and said second securing point of said object engagement portion are separated one from the other for receiving said first camera- retaining loop portion and said second camera-retaimng loop portion between said first securing point and said second securing point of said object engagement portion.

15. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 1 1 , wherein said object comprises a helmet.

16. A combination camera, object, and mounting apparatus comprising: a camera; an object for mounting the camera thereon; an object engagement portion for secure attachment to said object; a first camera-retaining loop portion retained by said object engagement portion for fitment around a first portion of a camera; and, a second camera-retaining loop portion retained by said object engagement portion for fitment around a first portion of a camera; wherein said first camera-retaining loop portion and said second camera-retaining loop portion are disposed in surrounding relation around said object engagement portion; wherein, in use, said object engagement portion is securely attachable to said object with said first camera-retaining loop portion and said second camera-retaining loop portion retained by said object engagement portion, and, wherein said camera is captured by said first camera-retaining loop portion and said second camera-retaining loop portion to thereby be mounted adjacent said object.

17. The combination camera, object, and mounting apparatus according to Claim 16, wherein said first camera-retaining loop portion and said second camera-retaining loop portion are each expandable and retractable.

18. The combination camera, object, and mounting apparatus according to Claim 17, wherein said first camera-retaining loop portion and said second camera-retaining loop portion are elastically expandable and retractable.

1 . The combination camera, object, and mounting apparatus according to Claim 18, wherein said first camera-retaining loop portion and said second camera-retaining loop portion each comprise an elastic strap.

20. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 16, wherein said first camera-retaining loop portion and said second camera-retaining loop portion are disposed in sliding relation around said object engagement portion.

21. The combination camera, object, and mounting apparatus according to Claim 19, wherein said first camera-retaining loop portion and said second camera-retaining loop portion are substantially the same circumference one as the other.

22. The combination camera, object, and mounting apparatus according to Claim 16, wherein said first camera-retaining loop portion comprises a separate first camera-retammg loop and said second camera-retammg loop portion comprises a separate second camera-retaining loop.

23. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 22, wherein said first camera-retaining loop and said second camera-retaining loop each comprise an elastic strap.

24. The combination camera, object, and mounting apparatus according to Claim 22, wherein said separate first camera-retaining loop comprises a single piece of material and said separate second camera-retaining loop comprises a single piece of material.

25. The combination camera, object, and mounting apparatus according to Claim 16, wherein said object engagement portion is expandable and retractable.

26. The combination camera, object, and mounting apparatus according to Claim 25, wherein said object engagement portion is elastically expandable and retractable.

27. The combination camera, object, and mounting apparatus according to Claim 22, wherein said object engagement portion comprises a separate object engagement portion.

28. The combination camera, object, and mounting apparatus according to Claim 27, wherein said object engagement portion comprises a single piece of material.

29. The mounting apparatus for retaining a camera adjacent an object according to Claim 16, wherein said object engagement portion has a first securing point and a second securing point, for secure attachment at said first securing point and a second securing point to said object, and wherein said first securing point and said second securing point of said object engagement portion are separated one from the other for receiving said first camera- retaining loop portion and said second camera-retaining loop portion between said first securing point and said second securing point of said object engagement portion.

30. The combination camera, object, and mounting apparatus according to Claim 16, wherein said object comprises a helmet.

31. The combination camera, object, and mounting apparatus according to Claim 16, wherein said helmet includes a first fastener and a first fastener receiving portion, and a second fastener and a second fastener receiving portion, and wherein said first fastener and said second fastener are used to secure said object engagement portion to said helmet.

32. The combination camera, object, and mounting apparatus according to Claim 16, wherein said camera comprises a wider central portion, a narrower right side portion and a narrower left side portion, and wherein said narrower right side portion is retained by said first camera-retaining loop portion and said narrower left side portion is retained by said second camera-retaining loop portion.

33. In a camera mountable adjacent an object, a camera body comprising: a wider central portion; a narrower right side portion extending between said wider central portion and a free right end, and wherein said narrower right side portion tapers from said wider central portion to said free right end; and, a narrower left side portion extending between said wider central portion and a free left end, and wherein said narrower left side portion tapers from said wider central portion to said free left end.

34. The camera body of Claim 33, wherein said camera body has a concavely curved rear surface for engaging a convexly curved object.