Adjustable metal clamp for joining pipes and stands — a flexible mounting solution used in lighting and rigging setups.
Technical Details
Standard cheeseboroughs are made of chrome-plated or anodized aluminum and weigh approximately 340-450g. The clamping force is up to 180kg when properly mounted. Two separate clamping screws allow for independent fixation of both tubes. Common variants include the standard cheeseborough (90° angle), the swivel cheeseborough with a 360° swivel joint, and mini cheeseboroughs for lighter applications with a reduced clamping force of 90kg.
History & Development
The first cheeseboroughs were developed in the 1920s by the British company Doughty Engineering and quickly established themselves as an industry standard in theater and later in film. Matthews Studio Equipment introduced an improved aluminum version in 1955, which reduced weight by 40%. Modern CNC-milled versions since the 1990s offer more precise tolerances and higher holding power.
Practical Application in Film
Cheeseboroughs connect C-stands with crossbars for flags, diffusers, or bounces. In "Blade Runner 2049" (2017), DoP Roger Deakins used them extensively for complex rigging constructions of his LED panels. They allow for attaching baby pins to trusses or expanding existing grip equipment setups. In the Steadicam field, they are used for mounting monitors or accessories on the gimbal. Disadvantages include added weight and potential vibrations with insufficient fixation.
Comparison & Alternatives
Unlike Mafer clamps, which connect round to flat objects, cheeseboroughs are exclusively designed for tube-to-tube connections. Super clamps offer greater versatility but less stability with heavy loads. Modern quick-release systems such as the Manfrotto Super Clamp are increasingly replacing cheeseboroughs for lighter applications, while the classic screw connection remains indispensable for heavy lights and precise positioning.