Why Are Gimbals Called Gimbals?.
Why Are Gimbals Called Gimbals? A History and Etymology
Gimbals are essential tools for videographers and photographers, providing smooth and stable footage even when moving around. But why are they called gimbals? And how has this technology evolved over time?
In this article, we will explore the history and etymology of gimbals, as well as their many applications in the modern world.
What is a gimbal?
A gimbal is a mechanical device that allows an object to remain level or still, even when the surrounding environment is moving. This is achieved by suspending the object in a ring or cage that is itself mounted on two or more axes.
Gimbals are often used to stabilize cameras, compasses, and other instruments. They can be found in a variety of settings, including ships, aircraft, spacecraft, and even smartphones.
History of gimbals
The earliest known gimbals were invented in ancient Greece, around the 2nd century BC. These early devices were used to keep incense burners and ink pots level on ships, even during rough seas.
Over the centuries, gimbals have been used for a variety of purposes, including stabilizing navigational instruments, artillery pieces, and even microscopes.
In the 19th century, gimbals began to be used in photography to stabilize cameras. This allowed photographers to take sharper images, even in low light conditions.
In the 20th century, gimbals became increasingly sophisticated and widespread. They were used in military and scientific applications, as well as in filmmaking and television.
Today, gimbals are more popular than ever before. They are used by videographers and photographers of all levels, from beginners to professionals.
Etymology of the word "gimbal"
The word "gimbal" comes from the Anglo-French word "gemel," which means "twin." This is because a gimbal is typically made up of two or more rings or cages that are interconnected.
The word "gimbal" is also thought to be related to the Latin word "gemellus," which means "little twin." This is likely because a gimbal allows an object to remain level and stable, even when the surrounding environment is moving.
Applications of gimbals
Gimbals have a wide variety of applications in the modern world. They are often used in the following industries:
- Filmmaking and television: Gimbals are used to create smooth and stable footage for movies, TV shows, and commercials.
- Photography: Gimbals are used to take sharp images, even in low light conditions.
- Journalism: Gimbals are used by journalists to capture footage of events and interviews without camera shake.
- Sports: Gimbals are used by sports broadcasters to capture footage of athletes in action.
- Military and scientific applications: Gimbals are used to stabilize instruments in aircraft, spacecraft, and military vehicles.
Gimbals are also becoming increasingly popular among consumers. Many smartphone gimbals are now available on the market, allowing anyone to create smooth and stable videos with their smartphone.
Conclusion
Gimbals are versatile and powerful tools that have a wide variety of applications. They are essential for videographers and photographers who want to create smooth and stable footage.
The next time you watch a movie or TV show, or see a news report, take a moment to appreciate the gimbals that were used to capture the footage. These devices allow us to see the world in a new way, and they have revolutionized the way we create and consume visual media.