Quadrapod Copy Stand
We're always interested in novel and well made photo gadgets and accessories. The attractive four leg copy stand holding a camera that is shown repeatedly in the laboratory on the TV program CSI Miami looks like it might be useful for photographing documents, photo's, railroad collectibles, etc., although it apparently was intended especially for crime scene investigators and firefighter photography. It was hard to find information, so we though it might help someone to provide links.
There are two models, the original Quadra-PodTM Copy Stand (US Patent #5993077, trademark), and the more adjustable Quadrapod EliteTM Copy Stand (Patent Pending, trademark) shown below. The only licensed reseller is Richard McEvoy at Forensic Imaging, Inc., (585) 924-9410, or they can also be ordered directly from the inventor, Steven P. Jones, 5507 Moultrie Road, Springfield, Virginia 22151, (703) 321-8106, quadrapod99@earthlink.net.
Quadrapod Elite Photographic Copy Stand
Image courtesy of Steven P. Jones.
posted from CPRR Discussion Group at 11:07 PM
6 Comments:
From: "Steven Jones" quadrapod99@earthlink.net
Love the Blog. I appreciate your kind remarks. ...
CSI: Miami is the number one television show in the WORLD. That's a fun thing for me and showcases the equipment for the forensic community. Because I travel extensively, I've actually seen the copy stands on TV while abroad. What a kick. I assemble them in the basement of my home! ...
I licensed the production of the original Quadra-Pod Copy Stand to Mr. McEvoy while I build the Elite model. At this time, it's a bit confusing because Mr. McEvoy bounces the credit card transactions to ... Mrs. Janney [who] processes the transactions for Forensic Imaging. ...
Right now, I have only 15 more of the Quadrapod Elite units. This was the first article production to determine if the product meets consumer and professional needs. I've had favorable response in each area and it's likely I will gear up for second build. Because many of the parts are hand fabricated, such as the "T" bar clamps and the modifications to the delrin slider I only make about 50 units at a time. I expect to begin the next batch in mid-April.
... The patent process is complicated and expensive, but it's one of three goals I had when I developed the original copy stand concept in 1997: 1) Get a patent, 2) make a contribution to the forensic community and 3) figure out a way to pay for the device ... I have a unique story on how I accomplished the each task, i.e. lots of "sweat equity" and personal commitment. ...
It's likely the Elite will increase in price (you might want to suggest to your bloggers that they should contact me for the up-to-date price). The fine telescoping tube legs are purchased in Italy and I import them back into the US which is another costly and involved process. It's worth all the trouble because the quality is excellent. However, the incredible dollar to Euro exchange rate has made a serious impact on the cost of the legs and shipping.
The original Quadra-Pod Copy Stand is readily available through Forensic Imaging, Inc. If a request comes to me, Forensic Imaging, Inc. or Mrs. Janney it's processed promptly. I believe in quality, service and value [which happens to be the business model for McDonald's Corporation]. The buyer gets a good product, service if needed, and excellent value.
... The copy stands are often seen [in] the laboratory, the library as well as in the field. I've provided copy stands to medical professionals as well as genealogists; however, the forensic document examiners and crime scene investigators frequently call for new equipment. It's exciting to know that there's another market in the Museum industry!
—Steve
Thank you!!!! I've been searching for this device since I first saw it on CSI Miami. Only a year of searching, finally using the term "copy stand seen on CSI" produced this blog. Never thought to search "quadRApod" only used "quadpod"
Glad to hear that our blog was helpful to you in your search.
Tripod: Another terrific product is the Rainer Burzynski Pro-Tec Tripod Ball Head II (be patient while he makes one for you!) which U.S. buyers can get while paying more reasonable postage charges from the Photo and Nature camera store in France. Works great with the Gitzo GT3541XLS Series-3 Systematic, 6X carbon fiber 4 section tripod legs, and Really Right Stuff PCL-1 Panning Clamp for Arca Swiss quick release mounts available for your camera or lens from RRS, Kirk, Wimberley, and Markens.
See, related discussion.
I too had seen these on CSI and was wondering who made them - and IF there were people who actually used them. Nice to see them out there - but am wondering what made the Patent 'acceptable' - as ... we were making something similar in the 1970's (funny, same for cam to spotting scope adapters too). But thought they were common and never gave a thought to any patent. Nice going.
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