Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an astrophotography assistive device that is capable of making astrophotography easier and more accurate for users by allowing a user to focus on composition and creativity, rather than technical complexities. Additionally, the proposed device also opens up new possibilities for astrophotography, such as capturing rare celestial events or creating stunning time-lapses.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Astrophotography, the practice of capturing images of celestial objects and events, has long fascinated astronomers, photographers, and enthusiasts alike. With the advent of digital technology, astrophotography has become more accessible and popular, enabling individuals to capture stunning images of the night sky. However, astrophotography poses unique technical challenges, requiring precise alignment, tracking, and control to produce high-quality images.

[0003] Traditionally, astrophotographers have relied on manual techniques, such as using equatorial mounts, polar aligning, and manual focusing, to capture images of celestial objects. These methods require a high degree of technical expertise, patience, and attention to detail. Additionally, traditional astrophotography equipment, such as telescopes and camera mounts, are bulky, expensive, and difficult to transport. Despite the best efforts of astrophotographers, traditional methods often result in suboptimal images due to various limitations. Manual alignment and tracking errors, results in blurred or distorted images. Traditional cameras often struggle to capture the full dynamic range of celestial objects, leading to lost details in bright or dark areas. Camera shake and vibration also degrades image quality. Furthermore, astrophotography is often weather-dependent, and environmental factors like light pollution, temperature, and humidity affects image quality.

[0004] US20120188369A1 discloses an astronomy camera with a CMOS detector with non-destructive read capability displays images of a scene being captured as the image is exposed. The apparatus has a detector with non-destructive read capability which allows data to be read out without resetting the detector to provide a user with updated images as the image is being exposed. This enables users to save the images at various states of the exposure and to end the exposure at will.

[0005] US6369942B1 discloses a mounting and tracking system for telescopes receives date, time, and geographical position data and, in response, automatically selects and points the telescope to a first alignment star. The user completes the exact centering of the first alignment star. Based on the date, time, and geographical position data, the telescope automatically selects and points to a second alignment star. After the user completes the exact centering of the second alignment star the system automatically points to and tracks any of a large number of celestial bodies.

[0006] Conventionally, there exists many devices that are capable of making astrophotography easier, however these existing devices fail in adjusting light conditions and reducing noise to optimize image capture. In addition, these existing device are also incapable of allowing users to capture images from a distance and reducing the risk of camera shake or disturbance.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to be able to facilitate astrophotography by adapting varying light conditions and minimize noise, thereby optimizing image quality. Additionally, the developed device also needs to be powerful enough to enable users to capture high-quality images from a distance, while also reducing the risk of shakiness or other disturbances that compromises image clarity.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing an efficient solution that makes it easy to align with celestial bodies for allowing users to capture accurate images, thereby saves time and reduces frustration, making astrophotography more accessible.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of tracking the movement of celestial bodies and adjusts accordingly, ensuring clear and sharp images, which results in higher-quality photos and reduces the need for post-processing.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of adjusting light conditions and reducing noise to optimize image capture, resulting in high-quality photos, thereby improving overall image clarity.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing a stable solution for photography equipment, allowing for fine-tuning and adjustments to capture perfect images, thereby improvising stability and control.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is compatible with a range of photography equipment and accessories, providing flexibility and versatility for users.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of making it easy for users of all skill levels to operate and navigate.

[0015] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of allowing users to capture images from a distance and reducing the risk of shaking or any sort of disturbance.

[0016] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The present invention relates to an astrophotography assistive device that is capable of facilitating a more efficient and effective astrophotography experience by streamlining technical complexities, enabling users to focus on photographic composition and creativity. Furthermore, the proposed device also expands astrophotography capabilities by making it easy for users of all skill levels to operate and navigate.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an astrophotography assistive device, comprises of a sturdy platform is designed to be placed on a level surface. The platform features a bracket mounted via a rotary mechanism, enabling the bracket to rotate in relation to the platform around a first axis perpendicular to the platform, facilitating azimuth angle adjustments, the bracket, which is an inverted U-shaped bracket, incorporates a rotary mechanism consisting of a circular geared track embedded in the platform and a pair of geared wheels installed underneath the bracket, allowing for bracket rotation on the platform, which are actuated by servo first motors, providing precise control, a vice grip within the bracket securely holds photography equipment in place, the vice grip is installed in the bracket via a swivel assembly, permitting rotation around a second axis perpendicular to the first axis, enabling equatorial angle adjustments, the swivel assembly comprises a pair of second motors that enable rotation of the vice grip in relation to the bracket.

[0019] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of a pair of linear actuators installed underneath the platform facilitate platform tilting, allowing for fine-tuning of the vice grip's angular position in the equatorial plane, a microcontroller, configured with an astrophotography module, tracks celestial bodies' positions and movements, guiding equipment motion across three degrees of freedom by actuating the rotary mechanism, swivel assembly, and linear actuators, the astrophotography module utilizes accelerometer, gyroscope, latitude, and longitude readings to accurately track celestial bodies and the astrophotography module regulates equipment parameters, including ISO, exposure, white balance, interval shoot, and focus, ensuring effective capture of celestial bodies.

[0020] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of an astrophotography assistive device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0023] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0024] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0025] The present invention relates to an astrophotography assistive device that is capable of enhancing the astrophotography process by minimizing technical intricacies, allowing users to concentrate on optimizing image composition and capture. Moreover, the proposed device is also capable of allowing users to capture images from a distance and reducing the risk of camera shake or disturbance.

[0026] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of an astrophotography assistive device is illustrated, comprising a sturdy platform 101, an U-shaped bracket 102 mounted on the platform 101 by means of a rotary mechanism 103, the rotary mechanism 103 comprises a circular geared track 104 embedded on the platform 101 and a pair of geared wheels 105 installed underneath the bracket 102, a vice grip 106 provided within the bracket 102, the vice grip 106 is installed in the bracket 102 by means of a swivel assembly 107, a pair of linear actuators 108 installed underneath the platform 101.

[0027] The device disclosed herein, comprises of a sturdy platform 101, which serves as a stable base for the device. The platform 101 is crafted to be positioned on a flat surface, ensuring a secure and even foundation. The platform’s 101 sturdy design and flat surface interface enable it to withstand various environmental conditions.

[0028] The platform’s 101 design provides stability and rigidity, as any movement or vibration compromises the quality of the captured images. To achieve this, the platform 101 is constructed from high-quality materials that provide excellent structural integrity and durability. The flat surface of the platform 101 also facilitates easy setup and levelling, allowing a user to quickly and accurately position the device.

[0029] The device features a bracket 102, which is securely attached to the platform 101 via a rotary mechanism 103 to enable the bracket 102 to rotate with respect to the platform 101, allowing for precise adjustment of the azimuth angle, wherein the bracket 102 is a U-shaped bracket 102. The rotary mechanism 103 is designed to provide smooth and consistent rotation, ensuring that the bracket 102 accurately positioned to capture the desired celestial object.

[0030] The rotary mechanism 103 comprises a circular geared track 104 embedded on the platform 101. The geared track 104 is a circular ring with teeth on its inner or outer surface, designed to engage with a geared wheels 105 installed underneath the bracket 102. The geared track 104 provides a smooth and consistent surface for the geared wheels 105 to rotate against, ensuring precise and controlled movement of the bracket 102.

[0031] The geared wheels 105 are designed to rotate in collaboration, providing a stable and balanced motion to the bracket 102. As the geared wheels 105 rotate, they engage with the teeth on the geared track 104, causing the bracket 102 to rotate with respect to the platform 101. The geared wheels 105 are typically mounted on axles or bearings, allowing them to rotate smoothly and freely. The use of geared wheels 105 and a geared track 104 provides a high degree of precision and control, enabling the bracket 102 to rotate accurately and consistently. The engagement between the geared wheels 105 and the geared track 104 is designed to provide a secure and stable connection, ensuring that the bracket 102 remains securely attached to the platform 101 during rotation.

[0032] The geared wheels 105, which engage with the circular geared track 104 to rotate the bracket 102, are actuated by servo first motors. These servo first motors designed to provide accurate and controlled rotation of the geared wheels 105. The servo motors are typically small, compact, and lightweight, making them ideal for use in the device. When the servo motor receives a signal from a microcontroller, it rotates the geared wheel, which in turn engages with the circular geared track 104 to rotate the bracket 102.

[0033] The microcontroller mentioned herein used herein is an Arduino Uno microcontroller, which controls each component of the device. The servo motor provides a high degree of precision and control, ensuring that the bracket 102 rotates accurately and smoothly. Firstly, the servo first motors are highly precise and rotates the geared wheels 105 to a precise angle, ensuring accurate positioning of the bracket 102. Secondly, servo first motors are highly reliable and operates for extended periods without maintenance. Finally, servo first motors are relatively quiet and produce minimal vibration, ensuring that the device operates smoothly and quietly.

[0034] A vice grip 106 is installed inside the bracket 102 responsible for securely holding the photography equipment in place for precise control over the equipment's position and orientation. The vice grip 106 is designed to provide a firm yet gentle grasp on the equipment, ensuring that it remains stable and secure during the imaging process.

[0035] To enable precise adjustment of the equatorial angle, the vice grip 106 is installed in the bracket 102 using a swivel assembly 107, which allows the vice grip 106 to rotate about a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis, providing a high degree of flexibility and precision. The swivel assembly 107 is carefully designed to ensure smooth and accurate rotation, allowing the user to make fine adjustments to the equipment's position as needed.

[0036] The swivel assembly 107 comprises a pair of second motors that work in synchronization to enable rotation of the vice grip 106 with respect to the bracket 102. These motors provides accurate and reliable control over the vice grip's 106 movement, allowing the user to make precise adjustments to the equatorial angle. The use of dual motors provides added stability and control, ensuring that the vice grip 106 remains securely in place even during subtle adjustments.

[0037] A pair of linear actuators 108 installed underneath the platform 101 for enabling fine-tuned adjustments to the angular position of the vice grip 106 in the equatorial plane. The linear actuators 108 are designed to work in collaboration to tilt the platform 101, allowing for subtle adjustments to the vice grip's 106 angular position. This tilting motion enables the user to fine-tune the equipment's orientation in the equatorial plane, ensuring that it is precisely aligned with the celestial body being imaged.

[0038] Inside the linear actuator 108, there is a motor that drives a lead screw or ball screw, which is connected to a rod or carriage. When the motor rotates, it turns the lead screw or ball screw, causing the rod or carriage to move linearly along the length of the actuator. This linear motion is then transmitted to the platform 101, causing it to tilt. The direction of the tilt depends on the direction of rotation of the motor. For example, if the motor rotates clockwise, the platform 101 tilts in one direction, and if it rotates counterclockwise, the platform 101 tilts in the opposite direction. The linear actuator 108 also contains a gearbox that helps to adjust the speed and torque of the motor. This allows the actuator to provide a range of motion, from slow and precise movements to faster and more coarse movements.

[0039] The use of linear actuators 108 provides a high degree of precision and control, allowing the user to make minute adjustments to the platform’s 101 tilt as needed. The tilting motion provided by the linear actuators 108 is essential for achieving accurate tracking of celestial bodies.

[0040] The microcontroller is configured with an astrophotography module that tracks celestial bodies and control the equipment. The astrophotography module tracks the position and movement of celestial bodies being photographed. To enable effective tracking of celestial bodies, the astrophotography module captures data from an accelerometer, gyroscope, latitude, and longitude reading of the equipment. The accelerometer measures the acceleration and orientation of the equipment such as tilting, shaking, or vibrating, and provides data on the acceleration forces acting on the equipment. The accelerometer data is essential for the astrophotography module to understand the equipment's physical state and make adjustments accordingly.

[0041] While, the gyroscope measures its angular velocity such as such as panning, tilting, or rolling, and provides data on the rate of rotation. For example, if the equipment is tracking a celestial body, the gyroscope detects any slight changes in the equipment's orientation caused by the Earth's rotation or other external factors. The astrophotography module can then use this data to make fine adjustments to the equipment's position and ensure that the images are sharp and clear.

[0042] The latitude and longitude readings provide the equipment's location on Earth, which is essential for calculating the position of celestial bodies. For example, if the equipment is located at a specific latitude and longitude, the astrophotography module uses this data to calculate the position of a celestial body, such as a star or planet, and adjust the equipment's position to track the body's movement. By combining this data, the astrophotography module accurately tracks the movement of celestial bodies and adjust the equipment accordingly.

[0043] The astrophotography module also controls various parameters of the photography equipment to ensure optimal image capture. These parameters include ISO (International Organization for Standardization), exposure, white balance, interval shooting, and focus. The ISO (International Organization for Standardization) refers to the photography equipment’s sensitivity to light. The astrophotography module analyzes the lighting conditions and adjusts the ISO setting accordingly to minimize noise and ensure optimal image quality.

[0044] The astrophotography module controls the exposure of the photography equipment to capture images with optimal brightness and contrast. The exposure refers to the amount of light that reaches the photography equipment. The white balance setting to ensure accurate color representation. White balance refers to the process of adjusting the color temperature of the image to match the lighting conditions. The module analyzes the color temperature of the scene and adjusts the white balance setting accordingly to ensure that the colors in the image appear natural and accurate.

[0045] The interval shooting feature to capture a series of images at regular intervals. Interval shooting is useful for capturing the movement of celestial bodies over time. The module sets the interval shooting parameters, such as the interval between shots and the number of shots, based on the specific requirements of the astrophotography session.

[0046] Similarly, the focus refers to the process of adjusting the photography equipment's lens to ensure that the image is in sharp focus. The module uses various focus modes, such as autofocus or manual focus, to ensure that the image is in focus. The module adjusts these parameters in real-time to account for changes in lighting conditions, celestial body movement, and other factors that may affect image quality, thereby enables the capture of high-quality images of celestial bodies by controlling these parameters, even in challenging conditions.

[0047] The module uses this data to calculate the necessary movements of the equipment to capture the desired images. This includes actuating the rotary mechanism 103, swivel assembly 107, and linear actuators 108 to position the equipment along three degrees of freedom.

[0048] The present invention works best in following manner, where the process starts by positioning of the sturdy platform 101 on the flat surface to provide the stable base. The microcontroller, configured with the astrophotography module, then takes control, using data from the accelerometer, gyroscope, latitude, and longitude readings to determine its location and orientation. This information is crucial for accurately tracking celestial bodies. Once the device is calibrated, the user inputs the desired celestial body to be photographed. The astrophotography module uses this information to calculate the azimuth and equatorial angles required to position the photography equipment for optimal capture. The module then sends signals to the rotary mechanism 103, which rotates the bracket 102 along the first axis to adjust the azimuth angle. Simultaneously, the swivel assembly 107 rotates the vice grip 106 along the second axis to adjust the equatorial angle. With the photography equipment positioned correctly, the microcontroller fine-tunes the angular position using the linear actuators 108 installed underneath the platform 101. This ensures precise alignment with the celestial body. The astrophotography module then controls the photography equipment parameters, such as ISO, exposure, white balance, interval shoot, and focus, to optimize image capture. As the celestial body moves across the sky, the astrophotography module continuously tracks its position and adjusts the device's movements accordingly. The rotary mechanism 103, swivel assembly 107, and linear actuators 108 work in tandem to maintain precise alignment, allowing the photography equipment to capture high-quality images of the celestial body. Throughout the process, the device ensures smooth and accurate movements, making it the invaluable tool for astrophotography enthusiasts.

[0049] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) An astrophotography assistive device, comprising:

i) a sturdy platform 101 adapted to be positioned on a flat surface;
ii) a bracket 102 mounted on said platform 101 by means of a rotary mechanism 103, enabling a rotation of said bracket 102 with respect to said platform 101 along a first axis perpendicular to said platform 101, to allow adjustment of azimuth angle;
iii) a vice grip 106 provided within said bracket 102 for gripping a photography equipment, wherein said vice grip 106 is installed in said bracket 102 by means of a swivel assembly 107, allowing a rotation of said vice grip 106 about a second axis perpendicular to said first axis, to provide adjustment of equatorial angle;
iv) a pair of linear actuators 108 installed underneath said platform 101 for tilting of said platform 101 for fine tuning angular position of said vice grip 106 in the equatorial plane; and
v) a microcontroller configured with a astrophotography module, to track position and movement of celestial bodies being photographed and accordingly impart motion to said equipment along three degrees of freedom, by actuating said rotary mechanism 103, said swivel assembly 107 and said linear actuators 108, to enable capturing images of said celestial bodies.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said bracket 102 is a U-shaped bracket 102.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said rotary mechanism 103 comprises a circular geared track 104 embedded on said platform 101 and a pair of geared wheels 105 installed underneath said bracket 102, adapted to engage with said geared track 104 for rotation of said bracket 102 on said platform 101.
4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said geared wheels 105 are actuated by servo first motors.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said swivel assembly 107 comprises a pair of second motors enabling rotation of said vice grip 106 with respect to said bracket 102.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said astrophotography module is configured to capture with accelerometer, gyroscope, latitude, longitude reading of said equipment to enable effective tracking of celestial bodies.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said astrophotography module controls parameters of said equipment including ISO (Intenational Organization for Standardization), exposure, white balance, interval shoot and focus to effectively capture said celestial bodies.