Self-leveling mount or platform for a rapid deployment system

Abstract

A self-leveling mount or platform, particularly for optical and surveillance equipment in rapid deployment systems which can be set up quickly and easily. The mount preferably employs a normally-on brake which is released by actuation of a solenoid. An assembly of equipment, which includes the self-leveling mount or platform, is mounted by a support tube on a spherical bearing, with the center of gravity of the assembly being positioned a given distance below the center of the spherical bearing. When the brake is momentarily released, gravity forces the center of gravity of the assembly to assume the lowest possible position relative to the center of the spherical bearing, which aligns the attached mount or platform horizontally. This self-leveling feature can be activated locally or remotely, and prevents image tilt when optical surveillance instruments are mounted on the platform, and are used to pan (rotate) about the platform's vertical axis. In military applications, the present invention offers the potential for self-deployment, and the ability to rapidly place surveillance equipment so that personnel can effectively 'set and forget' field-based equipment. The instrument mounting platform is supported vertically above the spherical bearing by the mounting arm, such that the platform is supported in an elevated position to allow surveillance instruments mounted thereon to have an elevated unobstructed view of the surrounding terrain.