Abstract:
A four bar linkage boom arm imaging stand assembly system and related methods are provided. The stand includes a height-adjustable imaging platform. The imaging platform is configured for holding a scanning device. The stand is configured to be mobile. The stand is also configured to be stable while moving a scanning device to a desired height and position. The stand is configured such that the imaging platform remains at a consistent orientation throughout the entire range of possible heights. The stand includes a unique brake feature for maintaining the imaging platform at a desired height.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims priority pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/882,528, filed Sep. 25, 2013, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     FIELD 
       [0002]    The present general inventive concept relates to an imaging stand system and method to be used in metrology. Specifically, the imaging stand provides a height-adjustable imaging platform for holding a scanning or imaging device. The imaging stand and boom arm are configured such that the imaging platform remains level with respect to horizontal (i.e. a consistent orientation) throughout the entire range of adjustable height. The imaging platform is configured such that a scanning or imaging instrument can be mounted thereon. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    A large number of industries require precise and accurate measuring for a number of applications such as production, manufacturing, and process control. In many such applications, measurement errors on the order of even one ten-thousandth of an inch can be critical. Instruments such as laser trackers, scanners, imaging devices, associated targets and the like are particularly well suited for such applications because they provide extreme precision and accuracy. 
         [0004]    Often, stands are used to hold instruments in position during use. Most stands of the prior art are stationary. Other stands provide limited adjustability. This lack of portability and adjustability makes positioning instruments difficult and time consuming. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0005]    The present general inventive concept provides an imaging stand that includes a height-adjustable imaging platform. The imaging platform is configured for holding an imaging device, such as a scanner or the like. in at least a first angular orientation relative to the horizontal support plane. In some embodiments, the imaging platform is capable of holding the imaging device in a variety of orientations. The stand is configured such that the orientation of the imaging platform remains consistent throughout the entire range of possible heights. For instance, when the imaging platform is oriented to be level and horizontal at one height, the imaging platform remains level and horizontal through the entire range of possible heights. In some embodiments, the stand includes a unique brake feature for maintaining the imaging platform at a particular height. 
         [0006]    One object of the present inventive concept is to provide an imaging stand assembly system, as described herein. Another object of the present inventive concept is to provide a method of using an imaging stand assembly system, as described herein. Another object of the present inventive concept is to provide a method of manufacturing an imaging stand assembly system, as described herein. 
         [0007]    Additional aspects and utilities of the present general inventive concept will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the general inventive concept. 
         [0008]    The foregoing and other objects are intended to be illustrative of the present general inventive concept and are not meant in a limiting sense. Many possible embodiments of the present general inventive concept may be made and will be readily evident upon a study of the following specification and accompanying drawings comprising a part thereof. Various features and subcombinations of present general inventive concept may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations. Other objects and advantages of this present general inventive concept will become apparent from the following description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein is set forth by way of illustration and example, an embodiment of this present general inventive concept. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0009]    These and/or other aspects and utilities of the present general inventive concept will become apparent and more readily appreciated from the following description of the embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of illustration, forms of the present general inventive concept which are presently preferred are shown in the drawings; it being understood, however, that the general inventive concept is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. In the drawings: 
           [0010]      FIG. 1  is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of an imaging stand assembly system with an imaging platform in a raised position. 
           [0011]      FIG. 2  is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the imaging stand assembly system, as in  FIG. 1 , with the imaging platform in a lowered position. 
           [0012]      FIG. 3  is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the imaging stand assembly system, as in  FIG. 2 , showing the opposite side view of  FIG. 2 . 
           [0013]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the imaging stand assembly system as in  FIG. 2 . 
           [0014]      FIG. 5A  is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of the imaging stand assembly system, as in  FIG. 1 , with the imaging platform in an intermediate vertical position. 
           [0015]      FIG. 5B  is a cross-sectional view of  FIG. 5A  taken along line  5 B- 5 B. 
           [0016]      FIG. 5C  is a detail view of a portion of  FIG. 5B  enclosed within circle  5 C. 
           [0017]      FIG. 6A  is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the imaging stand assembly system. 
           [0018]      FIG. 6B  is a detail view of a portion of  FIG. 6A  enclosed within circle  6 B. 
           [0019]      FIG. 7A  is a side view of another exemplary embodiment of an imaging stand assembly system with the imaging platform in a raised position. 
           [0020]      FIG. 7B  is a detail view of a portion of  FIG. 7A , enclosed within circle  7 B, showing a wheel lock lever in a first position. 
           [0021]      FIG. 7C  is a detail view, as in  FIG. 7B , showing a wheel lock lever in a second position. 
           [0022]      FIG. 7D  is an exploded perspective view of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of an imaging stand assembly system, as in  FIG. 6A , showing a wheel lock lever removed from a base member. 
           [0023]      FIG. 8A  is a cross-sectional view of  FIG. 7A  taken along line  8 A- 8 A. 
           [0024]      FIG. 8B  is a cross-sectional view of a tapered bushing. 
           [0025]      FIG. 8C  is an exploded perspective view of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of an imaging stand assembly system, as in  FIG. 6A , showing a top end of a vertical support member. 
           [0026]      FIG. 9A  is a perspective detail view of a portion of a braking mechanism. 
           [0027]      FIG. 9B  is an exploded perspective view of a portion of an exemplary embodiment of an imaging stand assembly system, as in  FIG. 6A , showing a locking lever. 
           [0028]      FIG. 9C  is a perspective view of a portion of a locking lever. 
           [0029]      FIG. 10A  is a perspective detail view of an imaging platform. 
           [0030]      FIG. 10B  is a perspective detail view of an imaging platform, as in  FIG. 10A , taken from a different angle as  FIG. 10A . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0031]    Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments of the present general inventive concept, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. The embodiments are described below in order to explain the present general inventive concept by referring to the figures. 
         [0032]    As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a four bar linkage imaging stand assembly system  10  is shown. The imaging stand  10  shown in  FIG. 1  includes a base member  100  with wheels  120 . The base member  100  includes a profile generally configured to provide good foot clearance (e.g. over cords and other obstacles) and a low profile to allow the base to be positioned under equipment and other fixtures. A bottom end  152  of a vertical support member  150  is fixed to the base member  100  and extends vertically upward. 
         [0033]    As shown in  FIG. 1 , a boom arm  200  is connected to a top end  154  of the vertical support member  150  via two pivot connections  201 . The boom arm  200  includes an aft portion  202  and a forward portion  204 . The boom arm  200  also includes an upper boom arm  210  and a lower boom arm  220 . The upper boom arm  210  connects to the vertical support  150  via pivot connection  201   a . The lower boom arm  220  connects to the vertical support  150  via pivot connection  201   b . In some embodiments, the upper boom arm  210  and lower boom arm  220  are configured to remain parallel with each other while pivoting on their respective pivot connections  201   a  and  201   b.    
         [0034]    In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , the forward portion  204  of the boom arm  200  extends a greater distance away from the vertical support  150  than does the aft portion  202  of the boom arm  200 . In other words, when measured from the vertical support  150 , the forward portion  204  of the boom arm  200  is longer and the aft portion  202  is shorter. 
         [0035]    In some embodiments, an aft end linkage component  230  is coupled to the aft portion  202  of the boom arm  200 . In some such embodiments, the upper boom arm  210  is connected to the aft end linkage component  230  via pivot connection  201   c . In other such embodiments, the lower boom arm  220  is connected to the aft end linkage component  230  via pivot connection  201   d . In still other such embodiments, the upper boom arm  210  and lower boom arm  220  are configured to remain parallel with each other while pivoting on their respective pivot connections  201   c  and  201   d.    
         [0036]    In other embodiments, a forward end linkage component  240  is coupled to the forward portion  204  of the boom arm  200 . In some such embodiments, the upper boom arm  210  is connected to the forward end linkage component  240  via pivot connection  201   e . In other such embodiments, the lower boom arm  220  is connected to the forward end linkage component  240  via pivot connection  201   f . In still other such embodiments, the upper boom arm  210  and lower boom arm  220  are configured to remain parallel with each other while pivoting on their respective pivot connections  201   e  and  201   f.    
         [0037]    In some embodiments, an imaging platform  300  is coupled to the forward end linkage component  240  of the boom arm  200 . Through movement of the boom arm  200 , the imaging platform  300  is movable between a raised configuration ( FIG. 1 ) and a lowered configuration ( FIG. 2 ). 
         [0038]    According to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , the aft end linkage component  230  includes an aft handle  232  for easy maneuverability of the imaging stand  10  and/or to assist in adjusting the height of the imaging platform  300 . In other embodiments, the forward end linkage component  240  includes a forward handle  242  to assist in moving the imaging stand  10  and/or assist in adjusting the height of the imaging platform. In still other embodiments, the aft handle  232  and/or the forward handle  242  are coupled to their respective aft  202  and forward  204  portions of the boom arm  200  but displaced from their respective aft  230  and/or forward  240  end linkage components. 
         [0039]    Although not shown in the figures, one skilled in the art will appreciate that it is not necessary for one side of the boom arm  200  to be longer than the other. In some embodiments, not shown, the boom arm  200  extends equal distance on both sides of the vertical support  150 . In other embodiments, not shown, the short end is completely eliminated and the vertical support  150  with its pivot connections  201  operate as an aft end linkage component  230 . 
         [0040]    Sitting atop the forward end linkage component  240  is an imaging platform  300 . The imaging platform  300  is configured such that a scanner or other metrology instrument may be mounted thereon. In some embodiments, the boom arm  200  is capable of positioning the imaging platform  300  at a predetermined height relative to the base member  100 . 
         [0041]    The height of the imaging platform  300  is adjustable. The boom arm  200  is configured so that a user can adjust the height of the imaging platform  300 , while maintaining the orientation of the imaging platform  300 . For instance, in some embodiments, the boom arm  200  is configured so that a user can adjust the height of the imaging platform  300 , while keeping the imaging platform  300  in a first angular orientation relative to the horizontal support plane. In some embodiments, the first angular orientation is horizontal and level. 
         [0042]    In some embodiments, the upper boom arm  210  includes three pivot connections  201   a ,  201   c ,  201   e  and the lower boom arm  220  includes three pivot connections  201   b ,  201   d ,  201   f . In some such embodiments, the imaging platform  300  is configured to remain horizontal and level (e.g. level with respect to the base) regardless of the adjusted height of the imaging platform  300 . A user rotates the boom arm  200  to adjust the height of the imaging platform  300 . According to  FIG. 1 , the height of the imaging platform  300  is shown in a raised position. 
         [0043]    Thus, according to  FIG. 1 , the imaging platform  300  is positioned at a location of adjustable height above the base member  100 . The imaging platform  300  is also positioned at a location horizontally outward and away a predetermined distance from the base member  100 . 
         [0044]    In some embodiments, an adapter is used to mount the scanner or other metrology instrument on the platform  300  in a preferred position. For example, if the stand  10  is intended to be used to boom over top and look down at an object to be measured, an adapter in some embodiments is used to accordingly mount a scanner to the platform  300 . By way of another example, if the stand  10  is intended to be used to scan horizontally an object that is larger than the scanning field of the scanner, the scanner in some embodiments is mounted to the platform  300  such that horizontal scans may be taken and that orientation is preserved as the boom is raised and lowered as the larger area is scanned. The platform mount allows fine directional movement of the scanner or other metrology instrument at the location of the scanner or instrument, while maintaining a consistent orientation with respect to the stand  10  throughout the range of height adjustment. 
         [0045]    In other embodiments, an end pivot  302  coupled to the boom arm  200  and the imaging platform  300  allows for rotating a scanner, or any other object coupled to the imaging platform  300 , up to 360 degrees relative to a reference axis. In some such embodiments, the reference axis is a horizontal axis running in a fore-aft direction relative to the base member  100 . In other such embodiments, the reference axis is oriented other than horizontally and/or runs in a direction other than in a fore-aft direction relative to the base member  100 . 
         [0046]    Although the figures show only one platform  300  connected to the forward end linkage component  240 , one skilled in the art will appreciate that in some embodiments an imaging platform  300  will be connected to the end linkage component on the aft end linkage component  230 , additionally or instead. 
         [0047]    According to  FIG. 1 , the boom arm  200  includes a spring mechanism  260 . The spring mechanism  260  connects between the upper boom arm  210  and lower boom arm  220 . The spring mechanism  260  is configured to counteract gravitational forces to make it easier for a user to adjust the height of the imaging platform  300 . One skilled in the art will appreciate that other features, not discussed herein, will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art to employ in various embodiments of the invention to counteract gravitational forces to make it easier for a user to adjust the height of the imaging platform. 
         [0048]    As shown in  FIG. 1 , the imaging stand  10  also includes a unique braking mechanism  250  that is movable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. In the locked configuration, the braking mechanism  250  retains the boom arm  200  in place such that the imaging platform  300  is secured and/or locked at a desired height. In the unlocked configuration, the braking mechanism  250  releases the boom arm  200  so that the height of the imaging platform  300  is capable of being adjusted. 
         [0049]    As shown in  FIG. 1  and  FIG. 5C , some embodiments of the braking mechanism  250  includes two brake plates  252  and a locking pin  256  operatively coupled to each brake plate  252 . The locking pin  256  is movable between a loosened configuration and a tightened configuration. In the loosened configuration, the locking pin  256  and the brake plates  252  are configured so that the brake plates  252  are capable of sliding past each other. In the tightened configuration, the locking pin  256  presses the two brake plates  252  together so as to prevent the brake plates  252  from sliding past each other. 
         [0050]    When a user desires to adjust the height of the imaging platform  300 , the locking pin  256  is loosened. With the locking pin  256  loosened, the boom arm  200  is capable of being rotated, thus adjusting the height of the imaging platform  300 . When the imaging platform  300  is positioned at a desired height, the locking pin  256  is tightened, pressing the two brake plates  252  together and locking the boom arm  200  in place. 
         [0051]    In some embodiments, the locking pin  256  is moved between the loosened configuration and the tightened configuration by rotating the locking pin  256 . In some such embodiments, the locking pin  256  need only be rotated a partial revolution, for instance a quarter of a revolution, to move between the loosened configuration and the tightened configuration. In other such embodiments, the locking pin  256  includes a locking lever  258  extending from one end of the locking pin  256  so as to provide a user with a mechanical advantage for moving the locking pin  256  between the tightened and loosened configurations. I 
         [0052]    In some embodiments, the locking pin  256  extends through the boom arm  200  and includes a locking lever  258  extending from each end of the locking pin  256  so as to provide a user with a mechanical advantage to move the locking pin  256  between the tightened and loosened configurations from either side of the boom arm  200 . In some such embodiments, the locking pin  256  is configured such that the locking lever  258  on either side of the boom arm  200  moves in unison with the locking lever  258  on the other side of the boom arm  200 . For instance, in some embodiments requiring only a quarter of a turn for the locking pin  256  to move between the tightened and loosened configurations, the locking levers  258  both extend radially forward when the locking pin  256  is in the tightened configuration and both extend radially downwards when the locking pin  256  is in the loosened configuration. In this way, the orientation of the locking levers  258  communicates to a user whether the locking pin  256  is in the tightened configuration, the loosened configuration, or somewhere in-between the tightened and loosened configurations. In so doing, in some embodiments, the orientation of the locking levers  258  also communicates to a user whether the braking mechanism  250  is in the locked configuration, the unlocked configuration, or somewhere in-between the locked and unlocked configurations. 
         [0053]    As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , a side view of an exemplary embodiment of an imaging stand assembly system  10  is shown. The embodiment shown in  FIG. 2  is substantially identical to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 2  shows the same side as shown in  FIG. 1 . Unlike  FIG. 1 ,  FIG. 2  shows the imaging platform  300  in a lowered position. 
         [0054]    As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , another view of an exemplary embodiment of an imaging stand assembly system  10  is shown.  FIG. 3  shows a side view opposite of the view shown in  FIG. 2 . 
         [0055]    As illustrated in  FIG. 4 , a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an imaging stand assembly system  10  is shown. Like  FIGS. 2 and 3 ,  FIG. 4  shows the imaging platform  300  in a lowered position. 
         [0056]      FIGS. 3 and 4  show a boom arm cover  270  attached to the boom arm  200 . In some embodiments, the boom arm cover  270  protects the user from inadvertently getting fingers, clothing, or other foreign objects caught between the upper boom arm  210  and lower boom arm  220 . In other embodiments, the boom arm cover  270  also covers and protects the spring mechanism  260 . Although the boom arm cover  270  is shown on one side only (in  FIGS. 3 and 4 ), one skilled in the art will appreciate that in some embodiments, the boom arm cover  270  is configured to cover both sides of the boom arm  200 , while retaining the freedom of movement of the various components of the boom arm  200 . 
         [0057]    The boom arm cover  270  is for both aesthetics and safety. In some embodiments, the boom arm cover  270  includes a top portion affixed to the upper boom arm  210  and a lower portion affixed to the lower boom arm  220 . In some such embodiments, the top portion and lower portion are offset slightly from one another such that they slide together and overlap one another as the distance between the upper boom arm  210  and lower boom arm  220  changes as the height is adjusted. In other embodiments, the boom arm cover  270  includes at least one side portion. 
         [0058]    As illustrated in  FIG. 5A , a top view of an exemplary embodiment of an imaging stand assembly system  10  is shown. 
         [0059]    As illustrated in  FIG. 5B , a cross-sectional view of  FIG. 5A  along line  5 B- 5 B is shown. The unique braking mechanism  250  is highlighted at  5 C. 
         [0060]    As illustrated in  FIG. 5C , a detail view of a portion of  FIG. 5B  enclosed within circle  5 C is shown. As discussed above,  FIG. 5C  shows details of one embodiment of the braking mechanism  250 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 5C , the braking mechanism  250  includes two brake plates  252 . An upper brake plate  252   a  is affixed to the upper boom arm  210  and extends towards the lower boom arm  220 . A lower brake plate  252   b  is affixed to the lower boom arm  220  and extends towards the upper boom arm  210 . 
         [0061]    In other embodiments, such as those represented by  FIG. 9A , the braking mechanism  250  includes four brake plates  252 . Upper brake plates  252   a  and  252   c  are affixed to the upper boom arm  210  and extend towards the lower boom arm  220 . Lower brake plates  252   b  and  252   d  are affixed to the lower boom arm  220  and extend towards the upper boom arm  210 . 
         [0062]    In some embodiments, each brake plate  252  defines one or more slot  254 . For instance, in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 5C , the upper brake plate  252   a  defines an upper arc-shaped slot  254   a  and the lower brake plate  252   b  defines a lower arc-shaped slot  254   b . In some such embodiments, the arc-shaped slots  254  are configured so that they both receive the locking pin  256  when the imaging platform  300  is in the raised position, when the imaging platform  300  is in the lowered position, and throughout the imaging platform&#39;s travel between the raised and lowered positions. In other words, the locking pin  256  extends through both arc-shaped slots  254   a  and  254   b , linking the brake plates  252   a  and  252   b  to each other, regardless of the imaging platform&#39;s position. In some such embodiments, the arc-shaped slots  254  define the raised and lowered positions of the imaging platform  300  by not allowing the imaging platform  300  to be raised or lowered beyond a point at which the locking pin  256  bears against an end of one or more slot  254 . 
         [0063]    In some embodiments, the locking pin  256  is capable of being loosened and/or tightened. When the locking pin  256  is tightened, the brake plates  252  are pressed toward each other, thus locking the upper boom arm  210  and lower boom arm  220  in their respective positions. In this way, the locking pin  256  causes the imaging platform  300  to be locked at a particular location. When the locking pin  256  is loosened, the brake plates  252  are released so that they are free to slide past one another as the upper boom arm  210  and the lower boom arm  220  are moved relative to one another. 
         [0064]    In still other embodiments, the braking mechanism  250  includes a stop pin  257 . The stop pin  257  prevents the locking pin  256  from rotating beyond a certain point. In some such embodiments, the stop pin  257  prevents the locking pin  256  from becoming over-tightened so as to prevent the locking pin  256  from causing the braking mechanism  250  to bind up. In other such embodiments, the stop pin  257  prevents the locking pin  256  from becoming too loose so as to prevent the locking pin  256  from coming apart and/or coming free from the imaging stand  10 . 
         [0065]    In some embodiments, the stop pin  257  is configured to be received by a stop pin raceway  259 . In some such embodiments, such as in the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 9B and 9C , the stop pin raceway  259  is defined by a locking lever  258 . In such an embodiment, the locking lever is free to rotate until the stop pin  257  contacts an end of the stop pin raceway  259 . In this way, the stop pin  257  and the stop pin raceway  259  define the maximum rotational movement of the locking lever  258 , thereby defining the maximum tightening and loosening of the locking pin  256 . 
         [0066]    Some embodiments of the present invention include a base member  100  that is configured to be supported by a generally horizontal support plane, such as a concrete floor. In some such embodiments, the base member  100  includes a plurality of wheels  120  so as to enable moving the imaging stand  10  along the horizontal support plane while the imaging platform  300  is being secured in a vertical position. In some embodiments, at least one of the wheels  120  is a caster wheel. In other embodiments, all of the wheels  120  are caster wheels. 
         [0067]    In some embodiments, the base member  100  includes at least one lockable wheel  120 . In other embodiments, plural wheels are lockable. In some such embodiments, all wheels are lockable. The lockable wheel(s)  120  is movable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. In the locked configuration, the at least one lockable wheel  120  prevents or hinders the imaging stand  10  from moving along the horizontal support plane. In the unlocked configuration, the at least one lockable wheel  120  is configured to rotate feely as the imaging stand  10  is moved along the horizontal support plane. 
         [0068]    In some embodiments, the at least one lockable wheel  120  includes a wheel lock lever  122 . The wheel lock lever  122  is operatively coupled to the lockable wheel  120  and is movable between a first position and a second position. In some such embodiments, movement of the wheel lock lever  122  from the first position to the second position moves the lockable wheel  120  from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration. Conversely, movement of the wheel lock lever  122  from the second position to the first position moves the lockable wheel  120  from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration. 
         [0069]    In some embodiments, the lockable wheel  120  includes an actuator rod  128  operably connected to the wheel lock lever  122 . In some such embodiments, movement of the wheel lock lever  122  between the first and second positions causes the actuator rod  128  to rotate so as to move the lockable wheel  120  between respective locked and unlocked configurations. To accomplish this, the wheel lock lever  122  includes at least one attachment point (not shown) for coupling the wheel lock lever  122  to the actuator rod  128 . 
         [0070]    In some embodiments, the attachment point(s) is located between a first portion  124  and a second portion  126  of the wheel lock lever  122  so that the first  124  and second  126  portions of the wheel lock lever  122  are capable of rotating about an axis going through the attachment point(s). In this way, movement of the first  124  and second  126  portions of the wheel lock lever  122  causes the actuator rod  128  to rotate. In some such embodiments, the first portion  124  of the wheel lock lever  122  is adjacent to a portion of a support arm  110  of the base member  100  when the wheel lock lever is in the first position. In other such embodiments, the distal end  114  of the support arm  110  includes a lever stop  115  and the second portion  126  of the wheel lock lever  122  is adjacent to the lever stop  115  when the wheel lock lever  122  is in the second position. In this way, the support arm  110  and the lever stop  115  prevent the wheel lock lever from rotating beyond respective first and second positions. 
         [0071]    In some embodiments, the wheel lock lever  122  is visible from virtually any angle relative to the imaging stand  10  so as to provide a visual indication of the configuration of a respective wheel  120 . In this way, a wheel lock lever  122  in a first position communicates to a user that the lockable wheel  120  is in the unlocked configuration. Conversely, a wheel lock lever  122  in a second position communicates to a user that the lockable wheel  120  is in the locked configuration. Consequently, by being visible from virtually any angle relative to the imaging stand  10 , a user can simply view the position of each wheel lock lever  122  to determine whether an imaging stand  10  can be moved along the horizontal support plane or whether one or more lockable wheel  120  in the locked configuration will prevent such movement. 
         [0072]    In some embodiments, the wheel lock lever  122  is configured to move from the first configuration to the second configuration when a downward force is applied to a first portion  124  of the wheel lock lever  122 . In this way, the wheel lock lever  122  is capable of being moved from the first configuration to the second configuration simply by stepping on the first portion  124  of the wheel lock lever  122 . In other embodiments, the wheel lock lever  122  is configured to move from the second configuration to the first configuration when a downward force is applied to a second portion  126  of the wheel lock lever  122 . In this way, the wheel lock lever  122  is capable of being moved from the second configuration to the first configuration simply by stepping on the second portion  126  of the wheel lock lever  122 . 
         [0073]    In some embodiments of the present invention, the base member  100  includes a hub member  102 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1  and  FIG. 5A , the hub member  102  is triangular in shape. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 6A , the hub member  102  is circular in shape. One skilled in the art will appreciate that other configurations and/or shapes will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art to employ in various embodiments of the invention. 
         [0074]    In some embodiments, the base member  100  includes a plurality of support arms  110  extending from the hub member  102 . Each support arm  110  includes a proximal end  112  coupled to the hub member  102  and a distal end  114  displaced from the hub member  102 . In some embodiments, a wheel  120  is coupled to each support arm  110  at or near the distal end  114  of the support arm  110 . In some such embodiments, a plurality of wheels  120  provides at least three distinct points of contact between the base member  100  and a horizontal support plane. 
         [0075]    In some embodiments, such as is shown in  FIG. 6A , at least one support arm  110  extends from the hub member  102  in a forward direction, approximately underneath the forward portion  204  of the boom arm  200 , prior to extending in an outboard direction. In this way, the distal end  114  is displaced from the hub member  102  in a direction that is both forward and outboard of the hub member  102 , so as to provide a more stable support location, without requiring a user to straddle the support arm  110  while standing alongside the imaging stand  10 . For instance, a user may wish to utilize a forward handle  242  coupled to the forward portion  204  of the boom arm  200  to assist in moving the imaging platform  300  to a particular location. In such a situation, it may be difficult or impossible for the user to move the imaging platform  300  if the user is unable to stand directly next to the boom arm  200 . If the user is required to straddle a support arm  110 , movement of the imaging platform  300  may be more difficult and/or the user may be more likely to trip on the support arm  110 . 
         [0076]    In some embodiments, not shown, the base member  100  includes one or more features known by those skilled in the art to allow a user to adjust the base member  100  to ensure the imaging stand  10  is horizontally level. For example, in some embodiments the imaging stand  10  includes self-leveling outriggers. Various embodiments of the present invention also include alignment features at the interface between the base member  100  and the vertical support member  150  and at the interface between the vertical support member  150  and the boom arm  200 . In this way, the orientation of the boom arm  200  is fixed relative to the orientation of the base member  100 . 
         [0077]    In some embodiments, the hub member  102  of the base member  100  includes at least one alignment pin  104  and the bottom end  152  of the vertical support member  150  defines at least one alignment hole that is configured to receive the at least one alignment pin  104  when the bottom end  152  of the vertical support member  150  is coupled to the hub member  102 . In other such embodiments, the bottom end  152  of the vertical support member  150  includes at least one alignment pin (not shown) and the hub member  102  of the base member  100  defines at least one alignment hole (not shown) that is configured to receive the at least one alignment pin when the bottom end  152  of the vertical support member  150  is coupled to the hub member  102 . 
         [0078]    In some embodiments, the imaging stand  10  includes a yolk  160  removably coupled to the top end  154  of the vertical support member  150 . In some such embodiments, the yolk  160  is configured to align the boom arm  200  in a forward-aft direction relative to the base member  100 . In some embodiments, the yolk  160  is positioned on one side of the boom arm  200 . In other embodiments, the yolk  160  is coupled to each side of the boom arm  200 . In still other embodiments, a single yolk  160  defines a throat  162  that is configured to receive the boom arm  200  so that the yolk  160  may be coupled to both sides of the boom arm  200 . In other embodiments, the yolk  160  is integral to the vertical support member  150 . 
         [0079]    In some embodiments of the present invention, the top end  154  of the vertical support member  150  defines a recess  158  that is configured to receive a bottom end  164  of a yolk  160 . In some embodiments, as shown in  FIGS. 8A ,  8 B, and  8 C, the recess  158  is defined by a bushing  156  that is received by the top end  154  of the vertical support  150 . In some such embodiments, the recess  158  is tapered. In other such embodiments, the bushing  156  defines at least one alignment slot  155  for receiving an alignment pin  165  of the yolk  160 . In some embodiments, the alignment slot  155  includes a primarily vertical portion with a primarily horizontal portion at or near the bottom of the primarily vertical position. In this way, the alignment slot  155  enables the bottom end  164  of the yolk  160  to be lowered into the recess  158  prior to being rotated into position. 
         [0080]    In some embodiments of the present invention, the boom arm  200  is manufactured, at least in part, from a four-bar linkage system. In some such embodiments, the upper boom arm  210 , the lower boom arm  220 , the aft end linkage component  230 , and the forward end linkage component  240  comprise the four bars in the four-bar linkage system. In other embodiments, the upper boom arm  210 , the lower boom arm  220 , the forward end linkage component  240 , and the vertical support member  150  and/or the yolk  160  comprise the four bars in a four-bar linkage system. In still other embodiments, other components comprise the four bars in the four-bar linkage system. 
         [0081]    In some embodiments, at least one brake plate  252  is coupled to each of the upper  210  and lower  220  boom arms. In some embodiments, multiple upper brake plates  252   a ,  252   c  are coupled to the upper boom arm  210  and multiple lower brake plates  252   b ,  252   d  are coupled to the lower boom arm  220 . Each brake plate  252  is positioned so that the upper boom arm  210  and the lower boom arm  220  are free to move relative to each other when the locking pin  256  is in the unlocked configuration. At least one upper brake plate  252   a  is positioned so that it is pressed against at least one lower brake plate  252   b  when the locking pin  256  is in the locked configuration. In this way, the upper boom arm  210  and the lower boom arm  220  are prevented from moving relative to each other so as to hold the imaging platform  300  at a desired height. 
         [0082]    In some embodiments, each brake plate  252  defines a slot  254 . Each slot  254  is configured so that the locking pin  256  may be received by all slots  254  as the upper boom arm  210  is moved relative to the lower boom arm  220 . In this way, the locking pin  256  is received by all slots  254  as the imaging platform  300  travels between the raised position and the lowered position. 
         [0083]    In use, the imaging stand  10  is moved along a horizontal support plane into position relative to an object. The wheel lock levers  122  are then moved from their first positions to their second positions, thereby moving the wheels  120  from their unlocked configurations to their locked configurations. In some embodiments, additional features, such as self-leveling outriggers, are used to provide additional stability and positioning adjustment of the imaging stand  10  relative to the horizontal support plane and the object. 
         [0084]    Upon positioning the imaging stand  10  relative to the object, an imaging device, such as a scanner, is coupled to the imaging platform  300 . In some embodiments, an end pivot  302  is used to orient the scanner relative to the object and/or the horizontal support plane. 
         [0085]    Next, a user moves the braking mechanism  250  from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration by moving the locking pin  256  from the tightened configuration to the loosened configuration. The user then moves the imaging platform  300  to a desired height prior to returning the braking mechanism  250  to the locked configuration, by returning the locking pin  256  to the tightened configuration, so as to retain the imaging platform  300  at the desired height. In some embodiments, one or more handles  232 ,  242  and/or a spring mechanism  260  are used to assist the user in moving the imaging platform  300  to the desired height. In other embodiments, a locking lever  258  is used to assist the user in moving the locking pin  256  between the tightened and loosened configurations. 
         [0086]    Finally, a user utilizes the imaging device at the current position prior to moving the imaging device to another position. In some embodiments, the imaging device is capable of being moved without requiring the user to change the height of the imaging platform  300 . In other embodiments, the imaging stand  10  includes features that enable the user to duplicate the height of the imaging platform  300 . 
         [0087]    Throughout the image capturing process, in some embodiments, a user is able to quickly and easily determine the configuration of various components simply by glancing at various other components. For instance, in some embodiments, a user is able to determine whether wheels  120  are in the locked configuration or the unlocked configuration simply by glancing at a wheel lock lever  122 . Furthermore, in some embodiments, a user is able to move a wheel  120  between the locked and unlocked configurations simply by stepping on a first  124  or second  126  portion of the wheel lock lever  122 . As another example, in some embodiments, a user is able to determine whether the braking mechanism  250  is in the locked configuration or the unlocked configuration simply by observing the orientation of one or more locking lever  258 . 
         [0088]    Thus, while the present general inventive concept has been shown in the drawings and fully described above with particularity and detail in connection with what is presently deemed to be the most practical and preferred embodiment(s) of the invention, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications thereof may be made without departing from the principles and concepts set forth herein, including, but not limited to, variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use; applications in contexts outside metrology; and operations in a form other than an imaging stand system. 
         [0089]    It is also to be understood that the claims to follow are or will be intended to cover all of the generic and specific features of the invention herein described, and all statements of the scope of the invention which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween. Hence, the proper scope of the present general inventive concept should be determined only by the broadest interpretation of such claims so as to encompass all such modifications as well as all relationships equivalent to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification. 
         [0090]    Finally, it will be appreciated that the purpose of the annexed Abstract is to enable the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally, and especially the scientists, engineers and practitioners in the art who are not familiar with patent or legal terms or phraseology, to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and essence of the technical disclosure of the application. Accordingly, the Abstract is neither intended to define the invention or the application, which only is measured by the claims, nor is it intended to be limiting as to the scope of the invention in any way.