Originally posted by stemked So I was wondering, what was the intended use of this stand?
The key is in the name. From the SP 500 manual:
Quote: This new portable copying stand fits all models of the Honeywell Pentax and can be used anywhere for copying documents, artwork, photographs, stamps, etc. The Copipod consists of a lens board complete with adapter rings for 46mm and 49mm sizes, and four calibrated telescoping legs. It can be set up in seconds, and when disassembled, fits neatly into a pouch-type case which occupies very little space. Lightweight, yet extremely rigid, the Copipod is a practical accessory which will fill a need for many Honeywell Pentax owners.
Whether it is any good at its intended task is another matter. For those who are less in the know, a photo of the Copipod is below:
I would consider it a collectible novelty unsuitable for other than light kit.
Added: Pentax also made a full-on copy stand with wooden base similar to an enlarger, but with a camera mount point instead of an enlarger head.
Steve