Patent Publication Number: US-2022235900-A1

Title: Telescoping lock mechanism

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO A RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/532,660, filed on Aug. 6, 2019, and titled “TELESCOPING LOCK MECHANISM”; which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/886,692, filed on Feb. 1, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,386,011, issued on Aug. 20, 2019, and titled “TELESCOPING LOCK MECHANISM”; which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/860,684, filed on Sep. 21, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,903,528, issued on Feb. 27, 2018, and titled “TELESCOPING LOCK MECHANISM”; which claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 62/053,511, filed on Sep. 22, 2014, and titled “ADJUSTABLE BIPOD”; the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The embodiments discussed in the present disclosure are related to a lock mechanism and an adjustable bipod. 
     SUMMARY 
     One or more embodiments of the present disclosure may include a telescoping leg including a first tube that is slidably disposed inside of a second tube. The telescoping leg may also include a lock mechanism disposed within the second tube. The lock mechanism may include a plug and a ramp that includes a first ramp end that is coupled to the plug and a second ramp end that is opposite to and has a wider diameter than the first ramp end. The telescoping leg may also include one or more bearings configured to roll along the ramp and sized to contact the ramp and at least an interior wall of the first tube through one or more corresponding openings in the second tube as the one or more bearings approach the second ramp end. As the one or more bearings contact the ramp and the interior wall of the first tube, interference of the one or more bearings with the interior wall of the first tube may substantially inhibit motion of the second tube relative to the first tube. The telescoping leg may also include a third tube with a proximate end proximate the second tube and a distal end away from the second tube. The third tube may be slidably disposed inside of the second tube, and in response to the third tube being substantially disposed within the second tube, the proximate end of the third tube may push the one or more bearings towards the plug, reducing the interference of the one or more bearings with the interior wall of the first tube. 
     It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are given as examples and are explanatory and are not restrictive of the present disclosure. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Example embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates an isometric view of an example embodiment of an adjustable bipod; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a view of an example embodiment of a self-locking telescopic leg; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates an example embodiment of an upper portion of a self-locking telescopic leg; 
         FIG. 4 a    illustrates a first example embodiment of a first middle portion of a self-locking telescopic leg; 
         FIG. 4 b    illustrates a second example embodiment of a first middle portion of a self-locking telescopic leg; 
         FIG. 5 a    illustrates a first example embodiment of a second middle portion of a self-locking telescopic leg; 
         FIG. 5 b    illustrates a second example embodiment of a second middle portion of a self-locking telescopic leg; 
         FIG. 6 a    illustrates a cross-sectional view of a first example embodiment of a lock mechanism of a middle portion of the self-locking telescopic leg; 
         FIG. 6 b    illustrates a cross-sectional view of a second example embodiment of a lock mechanism of a middle portion of the self-locking telescopic leg; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates an example embodiment of a lower portion of a self-locking telescopic leg; 
         FIG. 8 a    illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a lock mechanism of a lower portion of a self-locking telescopic leg in an unlock configuration; 
         FIG. 8 b    illustrates another view of a first example embodiment of a lock mechanism of a lower portion of a self-locking telescopic leg in an unlock configuration; 
         FIG. 8 c    illustrates a view of a second example embodiment of a lock mechanism of a lower portion of a self-locking telescopic leg in an unlock configuration; 
         FIG. 9 a    illustrates a front view of an example embodiment of a torso of an adjustable bipod; 
         FIG. 9 b    illustrates a back view of an example embodiment of a torso of an adjustable bipod; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates an example configuration of an adapter; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates an example configuration of a connection block; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates an example configuration of a release button; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates an example configuration of an axle block; 
         FIG. 14  illustrates an example configuration of an axle assembly; 
         FIG. 15  illustrates an example configuration of articulating pelvic blocks; 
         FIG. 16  illustrates an example configuration of a spreader pin and ring; 
         FIG. 17  illustrates an example configuration of a hip block; and 
         FIG. 18  illustrates an example configuration of a pelvic block and a hip block. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS 
     People often rely on telescoping support devices such as monopods, bipods, and tripods to maintain an object in a steady position while performing tasks. These support devices may be used to provide easier access to materials, comfortable accommodations, or stability while performing precise maneuvers. For example, such telescoping support devices may be used to keep a firearm, a camera, binoculars, a monocular, a scope, etc. steady. For example, an individual may use a monopod, bipod, or tripod while aiming a firearm to increase accuracy of a shot. 
     A problem associated with some bipods is that they may only work in a relatively limited height range. A limited height range may be inadequate for a variety of reasons. For example, an individual may wish to use the bipod while standing, sitting, or lying down and a limited height range may not allow for such a large range of use. As such, an individual may purchase multiple bipods, each configured with a different height range, and interchange among the bipods as required for a given situation. For example, when the individual intends to use the supported object near to the ground, one bipod may be used. When the individual wishes to revert to a sitting position, the individual may need to use a different bipod in place of the first bipod. Additionally or alternatively, some bipods may be cumbersome to adjust the length of the legs and/or to lock the legs in position. 
     Additionally, if a bipod is being used on uneven ground, a support surface of the bipod that may be configured to connect to the supported object may not be level with the ground, which may then hinder the ability of the individual to use the supported object. In addition, it may be necessary to move the bipod along with the supported object. Long or unwieldy legs may necessitate detaching the supported object from the bipod and later reattaching them. Such a process of detaching and reattaching is often cumbersome, especially when speed is of the essence. For example, when a hunter is attempting to hunt prey, a steady firearm can be beneficial. If the prey begins to flee and the hunter wishes to pursue, a large attached bipod may render the movements of the hunter less effective or ineffective, for example, by catching brush or other vegetation. In light of the above, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, an adjustable bipod may be configured in a manner to be easily adjusted to a variety of heights, provide a level support surface, be quickly attached and detached from the supported object, and be easily transported along with the supported object. 
     Embodiments of the present disclosure will be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an isometric view of an example embodiment of an adjustable bipod  100 . The adjustable bipod  100  may include two self-locking telescopic legs  110   a  and  110   b  and a torso  120 . Each of the self-locking telescopic legs  110   a  and  110   b  may be independently extended or retracted, which may allow a user to achieve a target height for the supported object in a variety of terrains. Each of the self-locking telescopic legs  110   a  and  110   b  may be configured to be freely extendible, may include a lock mechanism to prevent or restrict unintentional retraction, and may include a mechanism to allow the retraction of the self-locking telescopic legs  110   a  and  110   b.    
     The torso  120  may be configured to provide a connecting interface between the self-locking telescopic legs  110   a  and  110   b  and may also be configured to receive an object that may be supported by the adjustable bipod  100 . The torso  120  may be configured to allow the angle between the self-locking telescopic legs  110   a  and  110   b  to change when they are in the deployed position. The torso  120  may also be configured to allow the supported object to rotate or be locked in a target rotational position, for example, a rotation such that the supported object is level during use. The torso  120  may be configured to allow the object to be quickly attached to the torso  120  and quickly removed from the torso  120 . The self-locking telescopic legs  110   a  and  110   b  and the torso  120  may be configured to allow the self-locking telescopic legs  110   a  and  110   b  to be in a deployed position, a forward-facing position, or a rearward-facing position, or any other position. For example, the self-locking telescopic legs  110   a  and  110   b  may be configured to rotate independently in nearly any direction relative to the torso  120 . 
     Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the adjustable bipod  100  of  FIG. 1  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. As another example, the torso  120  may take any form or feature to enable a supported device such as a firearm, a camera, binoculars, a monocular, a scope, etc. or other supported object to be removably coupled to the adjustable bipod  100 . Additionally, the visual depiction of the adjustable bipod  100  of  FIG. 1  is for example purposes of describing principles of some embodiments of the present disclosure and is not limiting. Any number of visual appearances of an adjustable bipod  100  are still within the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates a view of an example embodiment of a self-locking telescopic leg  110 , such as the self-locking telescopic legs  110   a  and/or  110   b  of  FIG. 1  (referred to hereinafter as the “leg”  110 ). The leg  110  may include an upper portion  210  and a lower portion  240 . The leg  110  may include any number of middle portions  220  and  230 . In the illustrated embodiment, the leg  110  is depicted as including two middle portions, a first middle portion  220  and a second middle portion  230 , however the leg  110  may include any number of middle portions including no middle portions in which the lower portion  240  is directly adjacent to the upper portion  210 . The upper portion  210  may have a larger cross-sectional area than the first middle portion  220 , allowing the first middle portion  220  to slide inside of the upper portion  210 . The first middle portion  220  may have a larger cross-sectional area than the second middle portion  230 , allowing the second middle portion  230  to slide inside of the first middle portion  220 . The second middle portion  230  may have a larger cross-sectional area than the lower portion  240 , allowing the lower portion  240  to slide inside of the second middle portion  230 . However, the reverse may also be true. The upper portion  210  may have a smaller cross-sectional area than the first middle portion  220 , allowing the upper portion  210  to slide inside of the first middle portion  220 . The first middle portion  220  may have a smaller cross-sectional area than the second middle portion  230 , allowing the first middle portion  220  to slide inside of the second middle portion  230 . The second middle portion  230  may have a smaller cross-sectional area than the lower portion  240 , allowing the second middle portion  230  to slide inside of the lower portion  240 . The upper portion  210 , the first middle portion  220 , and the second middle portion  230  may each include a collar assembly, such as collar assemblies  250   a ,  250   b , and  250   c , respectively, that may be configured to prevent or restrict the leg portions from separating. The leg portions  210 ,  220 ,  230 , and  240  may each include a tube  262 ,  264 ,  266 , and  268 , respectively. 
     Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the self-locking telescopic leg  110  of  FIG. 2  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the leg  110  may include any number of middle portions, including no middle portions. Additionally, the visual depiction of the self-locking telescopic leg  110  of  FIG. 2  is for example purposes of describing principles of some embodiments of the present disclosure and is not limiting. Any number of visual appearances of a leg  110  are still within the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates an example embodiment of an upper portion  210  of a self-locking telescopic leg, such as the leg  110  of  FIG. 2 . The upper portion  210  of the leg may include a tube  262 , which may be coupled to a hip block  330  (described in greater detail below with respect to  FIGS. 9 a  and 9 b   ). The tube  262  may be a straight cylinder as depicted in  FIG. 3  or it may have any other cross-sectional shape and/or longitudinal curvature. A wiper  310  may be placed at one end of the tube  262 , with a gasket  315  placed surrounding the wiper  310 . The gasket  315  and wiper  310  may be placed inside a collar  320 , which may be attached to one end of the tube  262 . The wiper  310 , gasket  315 , and collar  320  may form a collar assembly  250   a  that may be configured to prevent or restrict the upper portion  210  and an adjacent middle portion, such as the first middle portion  220  of  FIG. 2 , from separating. Alternatively or additionally, any other mechanism could be used to prevent or restrict the leg portions from separating. 
     The tube  262  may be sized and/or configured to receive one or more other portions of the leg. For example, the tube  262  may be sized such that other portions of the leg may at least partially be slid or disposed within the tube  262 . 
     Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the upper portion  210  of  FIG. 3  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the upper portion  210  may include any number of middle portions, including no middle portions. Additionally, the visual depiction of the upper portion  210  is for example purposes of describing principles of some embodiments of the present disclosure and is not limiting. Any number of visual appearances of an upper portion are within the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIGS. 4 a  and 4 b    depict example embodiments of a first middle portion  220  of a self-locking telescopic leg, such as the leg  110  of  FIG. 2 .  FIGS. 4 a  and 4 b    also illustrate first and second example embodiments of a lock device,  475   a  and  475   b , respectively. The first middle portion  220  may include a tube  264 , such as the tube  264  of  FIG. 2 . The tube  264  may be a straight cylinder as depicted in  FIG. 4 a    or it may have any other cross-sectional shape and/or longitudinal curvature. A wiper  410  may be placed at one end of the tube  264 , with a gasket  415  placed surrounding the wiper  410 . The gasket  415  and wiper  410  may be placed inside a collar  420 , which may be attached to one end of the tube  264 . The wiper  410 , gasket  415 , and collar  420  may form a collar assembly  250   b  that may be configured to prevent or restrict the first middle portion  220  and the second middle portion  230  from separating. Alternately, a different mechanism may be used to prevent or restrict the first middle portion  220  from separating from an adjacent portion of a self-locking telescopic leg. 
     The tube  264  may include one or more openings  450  substantially opposite the collar assembly  250   b  which may be configured to allow one or more bearings  455  to bind between a lock device  475   a  (depicted in  FIG. 4 a   ) or a lock device  475   b  (depicted in  FIG. 4 b   ) and the tube of an adjacent portion of a self-locking telescopic leg, such as tube  262  of  FIG. 2 . In some embodiments, the openings  450  may be shaped and/or configured to restrict and/or guide the motion of the bearings  455  such that the bearings may roll or otherwise move within the boundary created by the openings  450 . For example, the bearings  455  and a ramp  460  (e.g. a ramp  460   a  of  FIG. 4 a    and/or a ramp  460   b  of  FIG. 4 b   ) may be sized such that as the bearings  455  roll along the ramp  460  and such that the bearings  455  remain in the openings  450 . While the one or more openings  450  are depicted as rounded rectangles, different shapes are also within the scope of the present disclosure. While the one or more bearings  455  are depicted as spherical in shape, different shapes may be used. 
     The lock device  475   a  depicted in  FIG. 4 a    may include the ramp  460   a  and a plug  465   a . The ramp  460   a  may be conical, frustoconical, pyramidal, or an irregular shape. The ramp  460   a  may include a first ramp end with a narrow diameter and a second ramp end with a wider diameter. In these and other embodiments, the second ramp end may be sized according to the size of the tube  264 . For example, the second ramp end may have a diameter such that a radius of the second ramp end may fill a substantial radial portion of the tube  264 , such as, without limitation, approximately between fifty and ninety percent of the tube  264 , or between thirty and ninety-nine percent of the tube  264 . The ramp  460   a  may be configured to allow the one or more bearings  455  to roll along the ramp  460   a  when a leg of which the first middle portion  220  is a part is extended, such as the self-locking telescopic leg  110  of  FIG. 2 . The plug  465   a  may be configured to prevent or restrict the one or more bearings  455  from moving from the tube  264  to an adjacent tube, such as the tube  262  of  FIG. 2 . Additionally or alternatively, the plug  465   a  may work cooperatively with the ramp  460   a  to retain the bearings  455  within a space defined longitudinally by a wide end of the ramp  460   a  and the plug  465   a.    
     A gasket  470   a  may be placed around the ramp  460   a  adjacent to the plug  465   a  and may be configured to allow quicker locking of the leg  110  and to eliminate or reduce rattling of the one or more bearings  455 . The lock device  475   a  may be held in place in relation to the tube  264  through the use of a pin (not expressly depicted in  FIG. 4 a   ) that may be inserted through a pin opening  440  on the tube  264  and a pin opening  435   a  on the lock device  475   a . While the pin opening  440  is depicted in a stop ring opening  485   b , it may also be located on the main body of the tube  264  or in another location. While the pin opening  440  and pin opening  435   a  are depicted as having a circular cross section, other cross-sectional areas may also be used. The one or more openings  450 , one or more bearings  455 , lock device  475   a , pin openings  435   a  and  440 , and pin may form a lock mechanism  490   a  that may prevent or restrict the first middle portion  220  from retracting with respect to an adjacent portion of a self-locking telescopic leg, such as the upper portion  210  of  FIG. 2 . 
     The lock device  475   b  depicted in  FIG. 4 b    may include the ramp  460   b  and a plug  465   b  that may be analogous to the ramp  460   a  and the plug  465   a . A washer  470   b  may be placed around the ramp  460   b  adjacent to the plug  465   b  that may be configured to allow quicker locking of the leg  110  and to eliminate or reduce rattling of the one or more bearings  455 . The lock device  475   b  may include a spring  495   b  which may be configured to bias the washer  470   b  towards the wide end of the ramp  460   b . Biasing the washer  470   b  towards the wide end of the ramp  460   b  may bias the one or more bearings  455  towards the wide end of the ramp  460   b , which may help lock the leg  110 . 
     The lock device  475   b  may be held in place in relation to the tube  264  through the use of a pin, a tension fit, or any other connection mechanism. For example, the lock device  475   b  may be held in place by the use of a stop ring  480   b  which may rest upon a stop ring opening  485   b . The stop ring opening  485   b  may be part of the plug  465   b  or may be part of the tube  264 , or any other component such that the stop ring  480   b  may maintain the lock device  475   b  in place. Additionally or alternatively, the lock device  475   b  may be held in place in relation to the tube  264  through the use of a pin (not expressly depicted in  FIG. 4 b   ) that may be inserted through a pin opening  440  on the tube  264  and a pin opening  435   b  on the lock device  475   b . The one or more openings  450 , one or more bearings  455 , lock device  475   b , stop ring opening  485   b , etc. may form a lock mechanism  490   b  that may prevent or restrict the upper portion  210  and the first middle portion  220  from retracting. 
     A stop ring  480   a  and the stop ring  480   b  of both  FIGS. 4 a  and 4 b    may be configured to be placed in a stop ring opening  485   a  and the stop ring opening  485   b , respectively. The stop rings  480   a  and  480   b  in combination with the collar assembly  250   a  may be configured to prevent the first middle portion  220  and an adjacent portion, such as the upper portion  210  of  FIG. 2 , from separating. The stop ring  480   b  may also facilitate the lock device  475   b  staying in place. 
     In some embodiments, the lock mechanism  490   a  and  490   b  may be self-locking. For example, using the spring  495   b  or simply by rolling along the ramp  460   a  or  460   b , the bearings  455  may lock tubes in location relative to each other without a user of the device invoking any button, switch, lever, feature, or other mechanism to lock the tubes in location. Additionally or alternatively, the lock mechanism  490   a  and  490   b  may allow for an infinite number of adjustable lengths within the extension range of the tubes. 
     Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the example embodiments of the first middle portion  220  of  FIGS. 4 a  and 4 b    without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the first middle portion  220  may include either of the lock mechanisms  490   a  or  490   b , or variations thereof. As another example, rather than the spring  495   b  in  FIG. 4 b   , any biasing mechanism, member, or apparatus may be used. For example, magnetic forces, electrical forces, or other forces generated by aligning or switching polarities may be used to bias the bearings  455  towards the wide end of the ramp  460   b . Additionally, the visual depiction of the first middle portion  220  is for example purposes of describing principles of some embodiments of the present disclosure and is not limiting. Any number of visual appearances of a first middle portion are within the scope of the present disclosure 
       FIGS. 5 a  and 5 b    depict example embodiments of a second middle portion  230  of a self-locking telescopic leg, such as the leg  110  of  FIG. 2 . The second middle portion  230  may be substantially similar in form, function, and/or operation to the first middle portion  220  of  FIGS. 4 a  and 4 b   . For example, the second middle portion  230  of  FIGS. 5 a  and 5 b    may be slidably coupled with the first middle portion  220  of  FIGS. 4 a  and 4 b    such that the second middle portion  230  may be substantially disposed within the first middle portion  220  in a collapsed state, or may be extended such that a substantial length of the second middle portion  230  is disposed outside of the first middle portion  220 . 
       FIGS. 6 a  and 6 b    depict a cross-sectional view of a lock mechanism  590   a  and  590   b , respectively that may be present in a portion (such as the first middle portion  220 , the second middle portion  230 , etc. of  FIG. 2 ) of a self-locking telescopic leg  600   a  and  600   b , respectively (such as the leg  110  of  FIG. 2 ). While described pertaining to a link between two middle portions, such as the first middle portion  220  and the second middle portion  230  of  FIG. 2 , identical or similar connections may be found between any adjacent portions, such as between the upper portion  210  and the first middle portion  220  of  FIG. 2  or between other middle portions if there are more than two middle portions, etc. The collar assembly  250   b  on the tube  264  combined with the stop ring  580   a  on the tube  266  may be configured to prevent or restrict the first middle portion  220  and second middle portion  230  from fully separating. As the tube  266  is extended away from the tube  264 , the stop ring  580   a  may come into contact with the wiper  410 , preventing or restricting any further extension of the tube  266 . 
     In some embodiments, the pin opening  535   a  of the lock mechanism  590   a  may be aligned and/or sized with the pin opening  540  of the tube  266  such that a pin may be fit inside pin openings  540  and  535   a , which may keep the lock mechanism  590   a  in a stationary position relative to the tube  266 . While the alignment and position of a pin may be described with respect to components illustrated in  FIG. 6 a   , the same principles are equally applicable to  FIG. 6   b.    
     The lock mechanism  590   a  depicted in  FIG. 6 a    may include the tubes  264  and  266 , one or more openings  550 , one or more bearings  555 , ramp  560   a , plug  565   a , and gasket  570   a . As the tube  266  is extended relative to the tube  264  such that a larger portion of the tube  266  is no longer disposed within the tube  264 , the one or more bearings  555  may be configured to roll along the ramp  560   a  away from the wide end of the ramp  560   a  of the plug  565   a , which may allow free extension of the tube  266  relative to the tube  264 . However, when a retractive force is applied to the tube  266  relative to the tube  264 , the one or more bearings  555  may be configured to roll along the ramp  560   a  towards the wide end of the ramp  560   a  such that the bearings  555  may contact an interior wall of the tube  264  through the one or more openings  550 . Such interference may create pressure between the one or more bearings  555 , the ramp  560   a , and the interior wall of the tube  264 . Such pressure may restrict motion of the tubes  264  and  266  relative to each other (for example by counteracting, resisting, or overcoming the retractive force), and may lock the tubes  264  and  266  in location relative to each other. The gasket  570   a  may be configured to allow quicker locking of the tubes  264  and  266  and eliminate or reduce rattling of the bearings  555 . 
     The lock mechanism  590   b  depicted in  FIG. 6 b    may involve the tubes  264  and  266 , one or more openings  550 , one or more bearings  555 , a ramp  560   b , plug  565   b , and a washer  570   b . As the tube  266  is extended relative to the tube  264  such that a larger portion of the tube  266  is no longer disposed within the tube  264 , the one or more bearings  555  may be configured to roll along the ramp  560   b  away from the wide end of the ramp  560   b  of the plug  565   b  and into the spring  595   b , which may allow free extension of the tube  266  relative to the tube  264 . However, when a retractive force is applied to the tube  266  relative to the tube  264 , the one or more bearings  555  may be configured to roll along the ramp  560   b  (either with assistance from the spring  595   b  or without assistance) and in the direction of the bias of the spring  595   b  and contact the interior wall of the tube  264  through the one or more openings  550 , such interference creating pressure between the one or more bearings  555 , the ramp  560   b , and the interior wall of the tube  264 . Such pressure may restrict motion of the tubes  264  and  266  relative to each other (for example by counteracting, resisting, or overcoming the retractive force), and may lock the tubes  264  and  266  in location relative to each other. In some embodiments, the spring  595   b  may create additional pressure to more strongly lock the tubes  264  and  266  in location relative to each other. The washer  570   b  may be configured to allow quicker locking of the tubes  264  and  266  and eliminate or reduce rattling of the bearings  555 . 
     In some embodiments, the lock mechanism  590   a  and  590   b  may be self-locking. For example, using the spring  595   b  or simply by rolling along the ramp  560   a  or  560   b , the bearings  555  may lock the tubes  264  and  266  in location relative to each other without a user of the device invoking any button, switch, lever, feature, or other mechanism to lock the tubes  264  and  266  in location. Additionally or alternatively, the lock mechanism  590   a  and  590   b  may allow for an infinite number of adjustable lengths within the extension range of the tubes  264  and  266 . 
     Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the second middle portion  230  of  FIG. 5 a    or  5   b  and/or the lock mechanism  590   a  or  590   b  of  FIG. 6 a    or  6   b  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Any number of visual appearances of a middle portion and/or a lock mechanism are within the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates an example embodiment of a lower portion  240  of a self-locking telescopic leg, such as the leg  110  of  FIG. 2 . The lower portion  240  of the leg  110  may include a tube  268 . The tube  268  may be a straight cylinder as depicted in  FIG. 7  or the tube  268  may have any other cross-sectional shape and longitudinal curvature. A leg release knob  730  may be placed at one end of the tube  268 , and/or may be disposed partially up the tube  268 . The leg release knob  730  may be attached to the tube  268  through an opening  735 . A foot  710  may be placed below the leg release knob  730  at the end of the tube  268 . The foot  710  may be attached to the tube  268  through the opening  715 . While the openings  715  and  735  may be depicted with a given shape, any shape may be used and/or any other mechanism may be used to couple the foot  710  and/or the release knob  730  to the tube  268 . 
     A spring  725  and a release rod  720  may be disposed inside the tube  268 , with the spring  725  contacting both the foot  710  and the release rod  720 . For example, the spring  725  may be disposed between the foot  710  and the release rod  720  such that a spring force of the spring  725  may bias the release rod  720  away from the foot  710 . Additionally or alternatively, any biasing mechanism, member, or apparatus may be used to cause the release rod  720  to be biased away from the foot  710 . In these and other embodiments, the lower portion  240  may include a retention member  770  that may be configured to retain the spring  725  within the tube  268 . In some embodiments, the lower portion  240  may not include the retention member  770 . Additionally or alternatively, the lower portion  240  may or may not include a set screw  705  that may be disposed proximate the spring  725 , for example, between the spring  725  and the retention member  770 . The set screw  705  may be configured to adjust the tension of the spring  725 , although any other mechanism or feature may also be used to adjust the tension of the spring  725 , or may be omitted. While the release rod  720  may be depicted as a straight cylinder, the release rod  720  may have any other cross-sectional shape and longitudinal curvature. 
     In some embodiments, the release rod  720  may be coupled to the leg release knob  730  through the use of a pin (not expressly depicted in  FIG. 7 ) through an opening  795  on the leg release knob  730 , the opening  735 , and the opening  740 . The leg release knob  730 , opening  735 , opening  740 , release rod  720 , spring  725 , foot  710 , and opening  715  may be configured as a release mechanism  745 , which may be configured to allow the release rod  720  to slide slightly towards the foot  710  relative with the tube  268  when a user exerts force on the leg release knob  730  but to be biased away from the foot  710  otherwise. The opening  735  may serve as a guide and/or stop for the pin coupling the leg release knob  730  to the release rod  720 , likewise guiding and/or stopping the related motion of the release rod  720  relative to the tube  268 . While the opening  735  is depicted as a rounded rectangle, different shapes are also within the scope of the present disclosure. While the opening  740  is depicted with a circular cross-section, other cross-sections are also within the scope of the present disclosure. The release mechanism  745  may be configured to allow portions of a self-locking telescopic leg to be retracted, such as the first middle portion  220 , the second middle portion  230 , and the lower portion  240 . 
     The tube  268  may include one or more openings  750  substantially opposite the release mechanism  745 , which may be configured to allow one or more bearings  755  to bind between a lock device  775  and the tube  266  (not expressly depicted in  FIG. 7 ) in which the tube  268  may be disposed as illustrated in  FIG. 2 . While the one or more openings  750  are depicted as circles, different shapes are also within the scope of the present disclosure. While the one or more bearings  755  are depicted as spherical in shape, different shapes may be used. The lock device  775  may include a ramp  760  and a plug  765 . The lock device  775  may be an integrated part of the release rod  720 , substantially opposite where the release rod  720  may contact the spring  725 . The lock device  775  may also be implemented as one or more separate components from the release rod  720 . The ramp  760  may be conical, frustoconical, pyramidal, or some other regular or irregular shape. The ramp  760  may be configured to allow the one or more bearings  755  to roll along the ramp  760  when a leg of which the lower portion  240  is a part is extended, such as the self-locking telescopic leg  110  of  FIG. 2 . The ramp  760  may include a first ramp end with a narrow diameter and a second ramp end with a wider diameter. In these and other embodiments, the second ramp end may be sized according to the size of the tube  268 . For example, the second ramp end may have a diameter such that a radius of the second ramp end may fill a substantial radial portion of the tube  268 , such as, without limitation, approximately between fifty and ninety percent of the tube  268 , or between thirty and ninety-nine percent of the tube  264 . The plug  765  may be configured to prevent or restrict the bearings  755  from moving from the tube  268  to an adjacent tube, such as the tube  266  of  FIG. 2 . A gasket may be placed around the ramp  760  adjacent to the plug  765  that may be configured to allow quicker locking of the leg  110  and to eliminate or reduce rattling of the one or more bearings  755 . The lock device  775  may be held in place in relation to the tube  268  through the bias action of the spring  725 . The one or more openings  750 , the one or more bearings  755 , and the lock device  775  may form a lock mechanism  790  that may prevent or restrict the lower portion  240  from retracting relative to an adjacent portion, such as the second middle portion  230  of  FIG. 2 . A stop ring  780   a  and a stop ring  780   b  may be configured to be disposed in a stop ring opening  785   a  and a stop ring opening  785   b . The stop rings  780   a  and  780   b  in combination with a collar assembly of an adjacent portion, such as the collar assembly  250   c  of the second middle portion  230  of  FIG. 2 , may be configured to prevent or restrict the lower portion  240  from separating from the adjacent portion, such as the second middle portion  230 . Alternatively or additionally, a different mechanism may be used to prevent or restrict the portions from separating. 
     Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the lower portion  240  of  FIG. 7  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, any configuration and/or structure of the foot  710  and/or the leg release knob  730  may be utilized. Additionally, the visual depiction of the lower portion  240  is for example purposes of describing principles of some embodiments of the present disclosure and is not limiting. Any number of visual appearances of a lower portion are still within the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIGS. 8 a , 8 b , and 8 c    illustrate, among other things, the operation of lock mechanisms as they are released and/or unlocked, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.  FIG. 8 a    illustrates the lock mechanism  790  of  FIG. 7  and the collar assembly  250   c  with respect to tubes  266  and  268  of  FIG. 2 .  FIGS. 8 b  and 8 c    illustrate the lock mechanisms  590   a  and  590   b  of  FIGS. 5 a  and 5 b    (respectively), and the tubes  264 ,  266 , and  268  of  FIG. 2 . 
       FIG. 8 a    illustrates a cross-sectional view of the lock mechanism  790  of  FIG. 7  on a lower portion (such as the lower portion  240  of  FIG. 2 ) of a self-locking telescopic leg (such as the leg  110  of  FIG. 2 ) in an unlock configuration. In some embodiments, the lock mechanism  790  may be configured such that as the release rod  720  is moved away from the tube  266 , one or more bearings  755  may roll along a ramp  760  towards a plug  765  such that the one or more bearings  755  may not lock or otherwise restrict the motion of the tube  268  relative to the tube  266 , even if the tube  268  is retracted further within the tube  266 . 
     A collar assembly  250   c  (e.g. the collar assembly  250   c  of  FIG. 2 ) on a tube  266  in combination with the stop ring  780   a  on a tube  268  may be configured to prevent or restrict the tube  266  and the tube  268  from fully separating. For example, as the tube  268  is extended away from the tube  266 , the stop ring  780   a  may come into contact with the wiper  510 , preventing or restricting any further extension of the tube  268 . 
     The lock mechanism  790  may include the tubes  266  and  268 , one or more openings  750 , one or more bearings  755 , a ramp  760 , and a plug  765 . As the tube  268  is extended away from the tube  266 , the one or more bearings  755  may be configured to roll along the ramp  760  towards the plug  765 , which may allow free extension of the tube  268 . However, when a retractive force is applied to the tube  268  relative to the tube  266 , the one or more bearings  755  may be configured to roll along the ramp  760  towards a wide end of the ramp  760  such that the bearings  755  may contact the interior wall of the tube  266  through the one or more openings  750 , such interference creating pressure between the one or more bearings  755 , the ramp  760 , and the tube  266 . Such pressure may lock or otherwise restrict motion of the tubes  266  and  268  relative to each other (for example by counteracting, resisting, or overcoming the retractive force). A gasket may be configured to allow quicker locking of the tubes  266  and  268  and eliminate or reduce rattling of the one or more bearings  755 . 
     When a leg release knob (such as the leg release knob  730  of  FIG. 7 ) is pulled, an associated spring (such as the spring  725  of  FIG. 7 ) may no longer exert force on a release rod  720 , which may cause gravity to pull the release rod  720  towards a foot (such as the foot  710  of  FIG. 7 ) and allow the one or more bearings  755  to roll along the ramp  760  and away from the tube  266 , allowing the tube  268  to be retracted into the tube  266 . While gravity is described as the force to pull the release rod  720  towards the foot, any other mechanism and/or feature may be used to pull the release rod  720  towards the foot. For example, the release rod  720  may be biased by a spring with a lower spring force than the spring  725  such that as the spring  725  is overcome by force of a user, the spring with the lower spring force may push the release rod  720  towards the foot. As another example, the leg release knob  730  may be coupled with the release rod  720  such that as the leg release knob  730  is pulled towards the foot, the release rod  720  may also be pulled towards the foot such that the one or more bearings  755  may roll along the ramp  760  towards the plug  765 . 
       FIGS. 8 a , 8 b , and 8 c    illustrate a cross-sectional view of example embodiments of the lock mechanism  790  associated with the tubes  266  and  268 , which may be present in a portion of a self-locking telescopic leg  800 , and the lock mechanisms  590   a  ( FIG. 8 b   ) and  590   b  ( FIG. 8 c   ) associated with the tubes  264  and  266 , which may be present in a portion of a self-locking telescopic leg  850   b  and  850   c , respectively. After the tube  268  is fully or substantially retracted into the tube  266 , the tube  268  may be spaced, shaped, and/or configured to come into contact with the one or more bearings  555 . The tube  268  may push the one or more bearings  555  along the ramp  560   a  ( FIG. 8 b   ) or the ramp  560   b  ( FIG. 8 c   ) away from a wide end of the ramp  560   a  or  560   b , releasing the one or more bearings  555  from locking or otherwise restricting the motion of the tube  266  relative to the tube  264 . For example, releasing the one or more bearings  555  may allow retraction of the tube  266  into the tube  264 . In some embodiments, after each tube is fully retracted or substantially retracted into the next larger tube, the tube just retracted may push against the bearings of the locking mechanism for the next larger tube such that the next larger tube may be retracted. 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 8 c   , the tube  268  may be retracted with sufficient force to compress a spring  595  of the locking mechanism  590   b  before the one or more bearings  555  may roll along the ramp  560   b  towards the spring  595 . 
     Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the embodiments illustrated in  FIG. 8 a , 8 b   , or  8   c  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, the visual depiction of the illustrated embodiments is for example purposes of describing principles of some embodiments of the present disclosure and is not limiting. Any number of visual appearances of the embodiments are still within the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIGS. 9 a  and 9 b    illustrate a front view and a rear view, respectively, of the torso  120  of  FIG. 1  of an adjustable bipod. The torso  120  may include a connection block  910  that may be configured to connect the adjustable bipod  100  to an object like a firearm, a camera, binoculars, a monocular, a scope, etc. A release button  930  may be configured to allow easy removal of the adjustable bipod  100  from the supported object. An axle assembly  940  may be configured to connect an axle block  920  and articulating pelvic block assembly  970 , as well as to enable the connection block  910  and the supported object to tilt from side to side. A tension nut  980  may allow the user to alter the tension to change the tilt of the connection block  910 . The axle block  920  may be configured to connect an axle assembly  940  to the connection block  910 . Such rotational movement may allow for leveling of a supported object such as a camera or firearm. For example, if one leg of an adjustable bipod is positioned at a higher height than the other leg due to the terrain on which the adjustable bipod is being used, the axle block  920  and thus the connection block  910  may not be level with the ground when in a default position. As a result, the supported object may not be level with the ground. By adjusting the tension nut  980 , it may be possible to rotate the axle block  920  and thus the connection block  910  and the supported object to make them level with the ground. 
     A spreader pin hole  950  and a spreader pin and ring  955  may be configured to allow a user to change an angle  990  between the two self-locking telescopic legs  110   a  and  110   b  when they are in a deployed position. The angle  990  may be modified by varying the angle between components of the pelvic block assembly  970 . Hip blocks  330   a  and  330   b  may be configured to connect the two self-locking telescopic legs  110   a  and  110   b  to the pelvic block assembly  970 , and thus to the axle assembly  940 . The pelvic block assembly  970  may include reinforcing plates  975   a  and  975   b  (described in further detail with respect to  FIG. 15 ). 
     Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the torso  120  illustrated in  FIGS. 9 a  and 9 b    without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, any configuration, shape, or collection of features of the torso  120  may be used to couple a supported object to the self-locking telescopic legs  110   a  and  110   b . The embodiment illustrated may provide additional features but are not necessary. Additionally, the visual depiction of the torso  120  is for example purposes of describing principles of some embodiments of the present disclosure and is not limiting. Any number of visual appearances of a torso are still within the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 10  illustrates an example configuration of an adapter  1000 . The adapter  1000  may be configured to attach to a supported object such as a firearm, a camera, etc. and may be configured to allow the connection block  910  (for example the connection block  910  of  FIG. 11 ) to be coupled with the supported object. The adapter  1000  may include one or more lock and release openings  1010 . The lock and release openings  1010 , when combined with a release button (such as the release button  930  of  FIGS. 9 a  and 9 b   ) may be configured to enable a torso (such as the torso  120  of  FIG. 1 ) to connect to a supported object by the connection block  910  (such as the connection block  910  of  FIG. 11 ) connecting to adapter  1000 . Holes  1030   a  and/or  1030   b  may allow a user to connect the adapter  1000  to a firearm or other supported object. Alternately, a different connection mechanism may also be employed to attach the adapter  1000  to a firearm or other supported object. When the adapter  1000  is configured to connect to a firearm, the adapter  1000  may take the shape of a standard Picatinny rail. In some embodiments, the adapter  1000  may also include a sling attach point  1020  that may be configured to allow attachment of a sling for carrying the supported object. 
       FIG. 11  depicts an example configuration of the connection block  910  of  FIGS. 9 a  and 9 b   . The connection block  910  may be configured to enable a torso such as the torso  120  of  FIGS. 9 a  and 9 b    to attach to and detach from a supported object. For example in the illustrated embodiment, the connection block  910  may be configured to attach to and detach from the adapter  1000  of  FIG. 10 , which may be attached to a firearm or other supported object. The connection block  910  may be configured to slide onto any suitable rail, for example the adapter  1000 . When configured for use with firearms, connection block  910  may take the shape of a standard Picatinny rail receiving-block. Holes  1110  and  1120  may be configured to allow the block to be coupled to the axle block  920  of  FIGS. 9 a  and 9 b   . While holes  1110  and  1120  are depicted with circular cross-sections, different cross-sectional shapes are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Opening  1130  may be configured to enable the connection block  910  to lock on a rail, any supported object, or adapter  1000  through the use of the release button  930  (such as the release button  930  of  FIG. 12 ). 
       FIG. 12  illustrated an example configuration of the release button  930 . The release button  930  may be configured to both lock and unlock the connection between the connection block  910  of  FIGS. 9 a  and 9 b    and a rail, any supported object, or the adapter  1000  of  FIG. 10 . The release button  930  may include a hole  1210  about which the release button  930  may pivot or for coupling the release button  930  to one or more other components of the torso  120 . Additionally or alternatively, the release button  930  may be coupled to a spring to bias the release button in a particular orientation, such as locked, and the spring may be coupled to the release button  930  via the hole  1210 . 
       FIG. 13  illustrates an example configuration of the axle block  920 , which may be configured to connect the connection block  910  of  FIG. 11  to the axle assembly  940  of  FIG. 14 . Holes  1330  and/or  1340  may be configured to allow the connection block  910  (such as  FIG. 11 ) to be connected to axle block  920  on top of block seating area  1350 . The release button  930  may be positioned in a release button opening  1310 . The axle assembly  940  (illustrated in greater detail in  FIG. 14 ) may connect through an axle block axle hole  1320 . The shapes depicted in  FIG. 13  are exemplary only and other potential shapes are possible for the different parts of the axle block. 
     In some embodiments, the release button  930  may be coupled to a spring  1360  which may bias the release button  930  towards a middle of the connection block  910  (for example, the connection block  910  shown in  FIG. 11 ). Using the spring  1360 , the release button  930  may be pushed and/or pulled away from the middle of the connection block  910  to allow a rail or other supported object to enter the connection block  910 , and when released, the spring  1360  may bias the release button  930  such that the release button  930  engages the rail or other supported object now in the connection block  910 . 
       FIG. 14  illustrates an example configuration of the axle assembly  940 , which may be configured to connect articulating pelvic blocks (such as those in the pelvic block assembly  970  of  FIG. 9 b   ) to an axle block (such as the axle block  920  of  FIGS. 9 a  and 9 b   ). The axle assembly  940  may also be configured to allow rotational movement between the articulating pelvic blocks and the axle block, which may allow a firearm or other supported object attached to a connection block to tilt from side to side. An axle  1410  may be inserted into an articulating pelvic block assembly axle hole (such as articulating pelvic block assembly axle hole  1850  of  FIG. 18 ) and through an axle block axle hole (such as the axle block axle hole  1320  of  FIG. 13 ). The tension nut  980  may be connected to the axle  1410  on the rear side of a torso (such as the torso  120  of  FIG. 9 b   ). A nut  1460  may be connected to the axle  1410  after the tension nut  980 . Washers  1420 ,  1430 , and  1450  may be used on the axle  1410  between the pelvic block assembly (e.g. the pelvic block assembly  970  illustrated in greater detail in  FIG. 15 ) and the axle block (e.g. the axle block  920  of  FIG. 13 ). The washer  1430  may be a curved disk spring washer as depicted in  FIG. 14  or may be a plain washer or any other type of washer. A half-circle  1440  may be referred to as a Woodruff Key and may be configured to lock the axle block (e.g. the axle block  920 ) and the axle  1410  together. 
     Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, rather than the half-circle  1440  Woodruff Key, a set screw may be utilized to allow rotational movement between the articulating pelvic blocks and the axle block. For example, a seat on the axle  1410  may receive a set screw such that the set screw, traversing the axle block  920 , may couple the axle block  920  and the axle  1410  such that as the axle  1410  is rotated, the axle block  920  may also be rotated. Additionally or alternatively, the set screw may be loosened such that the axle  1410  may rotate independently of the axle block  920 . Additionally, the visual depiction of the embodiments illustrated is for example purposes of describing principles of some embodiments of the present disclosure and is not limiting. Any number of visual appearances of the illustrated embodiments are still within the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 15  illustrates an example configuration of the articulating pelvic block assembly  970 , which may couple hip blocks (such as the hip blocks  330   a  and  330   b  of  FIG. 3  and/or  FIGS. 9 a  and 9 b   ) to an axle block (such as the axle block  920  of  FIGS. 9 a  and 9 b   ) by use of the axle assembly  940 . The pelvic block assembly  970  may include two pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b  to which the hip blocks may attach through a hip block attachment hole  1530  (the corresponding hole on  1510   a  not expressly depicted in  FIG. 15 ). The hip blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b  may include reinforcing plates  975   a  and  975   b , respectively. The pelvic block assembly  970  may be configured to allow legs coupled to the pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b  to spread open when the legs are in a deployed position, for example, by increasing the angle  990  between the legs while the legs are in the deployed position. The spreader pin hole  950  may be configured to receive a spreader ring and pin (for example, a spreader ring and pin as illustrated in  FIG. 16 ), which may lock the legs at a standard angle  990  in the deployed position. When the spreader ring and pin are removed, the pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b  may be rotated about the axle assembly  940 , increasing the angle  990  and widening the angle between the legs. The spreading of the legs may also be prevented or restricted by the contact of the two pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b , which may limit either or both of a minimum or a maximum angle. As the legs spread further apart, parts of the pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b  may come into contact with each other, preventing or restricting any further rotation of the pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b  about the axle assembly  940 . In addition, converging the legs in order to insert the spreader pin and ring into the spreader hole  950  or for another reason may eventually be prevented or restricted by the contact of the two pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b . As the legs converge, decreasing the angle  990  between the legs, parts of the pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b  may come into contact with each other, preventing or restricting any further rotation of the pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b  about the axle assembly  940 . 
     In addition, the pelvic block assembly  970  may allow the legs to rotate forward or backward. Pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b  may include one or more indents  1520 , which may be configured to allow the legs to be locked in different positions. As depicted, the indents  1520  may allow the legs to be locked in three positions: forward, deployed, and backward. Additional indents  1520  may also be added to the pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b  to provide more options or fewer indents  1520  could also be used. In these and other embodiments, the reinforcing plates  975   a  and  975   b  may be shaped, constructed, and/or configured to reinforce the pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b . For example, the reinforcing plates  975   a  and  975   b  may be constructed of stainless steel such that as the legs are rotated forward or backward and engage the indents  1520 , the reinforcing plates  975   a  and  975   b  may receive and bear some or all of the forces applied to the pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b.    
     Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the pelvic block assembly  970  illustrated in  FIG. 15  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, the visual depiction of the pelvic block assembly  970  is for example purposes of describing principles of some embodiments of the present disclosure and is not limiting. Any number of visual appearances of a pelvic block assembly are still within the scope of the present disclosure. 
       FIG. 16  illustrates an example configuration of a spreader pin and ring  955 , which may be configured to lock legs of a bipod in a standard position. The spreader pin and ring  955  may include a spreader pin  1610  and a spreader ring  1620 . The spreader pin  1610  may be inserted into the spreader pin hole  950  to prevent or restrict pelvic blocks and any legs coupled to the pelvic blocks (such as the pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b  of  FIG. 15  and/or the legs  110   a  and  110   b  of  FIGS. 9 a  and 9 b   ) from spreading apart from each other. When the spreader pin  1610  is removed from a spreader hole (such as the spreader pin hole  950  of  FIG. 9 a   ), the pelvic blocks may be able to rotate around an axle assembly to increase or decrease an angle between the legs. The spreader ring  1620  may provide a grip for an individual to remove or insert the spreader pin and ring  1600  into the spreader pin hole  950 . 
     In some embodiments, the spreader pin and ring  955  may include a spring  1630  and the spreader pin  1610  may be sized and/or configured such that the spreader pin and ring  955  may not disengage from the pelvic block assembly  970  as the spreader pin  1610  is removed from the spreader pin hole  950 . For example, the spreader ring  1620  may be pulled to overcome a spring force of the spring  1630 , removing the spreader pin  1610  from the spreader pin hole  950  and allowing the pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b  to rotate about the axle assembly  940 . As the pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b  rotate, an additional spreader pin hole may align with the spreader pin  1610  and the spring force of the spring  1630  may reinsert the spreader pin  1610  into the additional hole, locking the pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b  in the new orientation. 
       FIG. 17  illustrates an example configuration of a hip block  330  (such as the hip block  330  of  FIG. 3 ), which may couple a leg to a pelvic block. An opening  1710  may be configured to provide a mechanism for the hip block  330  to couple to a pelvic block (such as the pelvic blocks  1510   a  and  1510   b  of  FIG. 15 ). In some embodiments, the opening  1710  may be elongated to allow a user to change the legs between different positions such as forward, deployed, and backward. A locking hole  1720 , when combined with a locking pin (for example, the locking pin  1840  as depicted in  FIG. 18 ), may be configured to provide a locking mechanism to lock the legs in different positions. While the locking hole  1720  is depicted with a circular cross-section, it may have any cross-sectional area. A hole  1730  may be configured to accept an upper portion of the leg. While the hole  1730  is depicted with a circular cross-section, it may also have any cross-sectional area to match the cross-section of the leg. 
       FIG. 18  illustrates an example configuration of the pelvic block  1510   b  and the hip block  330   b . The hip block  330   b  may be coupled to the pelvic block  1510   b  by a shoulder bolt  1810  and a washer  1820  through an opening on the hip block  330   b  and hip block attachment hole  1530  on the pelvic block  1510   b . The hip block  330   b  may include a spring  1830 , which may be configured to bias the hip block  330   b  in any position, for example, forward, deployed, or backward. A different biasing mechanism, member, or apparatus may be used. A user may exert force to compress the spring  1830  and allow the position of the hip block  330   b  to change. A pin  1840 , which may be inserted into the locking hole  1720 , may be configured to provide the locking mechanism for the position of the hip block  330   b . The pin  1840  may be configured to fit inside indents  1520 , which may lock the position of the hip block  330   b  relative to the pelvic block  1510   b.    
     Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 16, 17, and 18  without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, any mechanism may be used to couple the hip block  330  to the leg. As another example, the spring  1630  may be omitted, or any other biasing mechanism or member may be used to prevent the spreader pin and ring  955  from disengaging from the pelvic block assembly  970  while removing the spreader pin  1610  from the spreader pin hole  950 . Additionally, the visual depiction of the embodiments illustrated is for example purposes of describing principles of some embodiments of the present disclosure and is not limiting. Any number of visual appearances of the illustrated embodiments are still within the scope of the present disclosure. 
     While the examples in the present disclosure may be described in the context of bipods, a device with any number of telescoping legs is specifically contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, such a device may include any number of telescopic legs, such as one, two, three, or more. Additionally, even if utilizing a slight modification to implement various features, aspects, and/or characteristics of the present disclosure, any of such features, aspects, and/or characteristics of the present disclosure are equally applicable to a device with any number of telescopic legs, such as, without limitation, rotating or biasing the legs to a particular position, utilizing a locking pin to rapidly spread the legs, or changing the tilt of an object supported by such a device. 
     Terms used in the present disclosure and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including, but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes, but is not limited to,” etc.). 
     Additionally, if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. 
     In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” or “one or more of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended to include A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together, etc. 
     Further, any disjunctive word or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” should be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.” 
     All examples and conditional language recited in the present disclosure are intended for pedagogical objects to aid the reader in understanding the present disclosure and the concepts contributed by the inventor to furthering the art, and are to be construed as being without limitation to such specifically recited examples and conditions. Although embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, various changes, substitutions, and alterations could be made hereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.