Handlebar support apparatus

#The present invention relates generally to optical recording devices, and more particularly to a support apparatus for hand held video or still cameras.

#A wide variety of support systems have been provided in the prior art for holding a hand held camera steady.

#However, most camera support systems are rudimentary and largely ineffective, while others are complicated and expensive. Generally, known camera support systems employ rigid bars or un-yielding structural elements that are attached to a camera, therefore making their adjustment extremely difficult, time-consuming and limited in scope.

#FIG. 1 is a perspective view of handlebar support apparatus embodying a preferred embodiment of the invention mounted on a camera and showing the articulated handles thereof in a substantially vertical position;

#FIG. 2 illustrates the range of possible positions for the handle(s) of the support apparatus, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

#FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the handlebar support apparatus of FIG. 1, showing the outer ends of the articulated handles thereof releasably interconnected;

#Referring first to FIGS. 1 and 2 of the drawings, handlebar support apparatus embodying a preferred form of the invention is generally indicated by 10 and is mounted on a base B of a camera C.

#Handlebar support apparatus 10 includes an attachment means, such as a central circular hub 12, which is engageable with base B of camera C, either directly engagable via a threaded insert or stud or a similar mechanical engagement or fixation (not shown) provided on the base, or indirectly engagable through the use of an intermediary attachment means, such as those attachment means known as a quick release shoe and receive (also not shown). Moreover, it should be noted that support apparatus 10 may be attached to any intermediary means disposed between the support apparatus and the camera, such as a battery or accessory device.

#A mounting means 14 is provided in hub 12 to permit the attachment of support apparatus 10 to such as a monopod, tripod, or other support, not shown. A pair of spaced flexible, mirror image, arcuate, left and right articulating handles, generally indicated by 16A and 16B respectively, are operatively connected to the outer periphery of hub 12 at its central longitudinal axis, with handle 16A extending outwardly from one side of the hub and handle 16B extending outwardly from an opposite side.