Author Topic: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches  (Read 31801 times)

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Offline EEVblogTopic starter

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EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« on: July 11, 2013, 11:31:13 pm »
Dave makes a DIY camera dolly system that mounts under his work bench.
It's not complete yet, it possibly needs a 2nd rail platform and better tripod mount, but otherwise works fairly well.



 

Offline Monkeh

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #1 on: July 11, 2013, 11:47:30 pm »
Put some grease on it already!

Try mounting the tripod using pipe clamps. You can probably 3D print some spacers to suit the different size tubes!

When you put a second rail on, mount the drawer runners the way they're meant to be used, and it'll be smoother and more stable, also far less likely to be broken accidentally.
« Last Edit: July 11, 2013, 11:50:42 pm by Monkeh »
 

Offline DrGeoff

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #2 on: July 11, 2013, 11:51:37 pm »
A jib crane with a counterweight might have been a little easier to build.
Was it really supposed to do that?
 

Offline EEVblogTopic starter

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #3 on: July 11, 2013, 11:53:49 pm »
Put some grease on it already!
Try mounting the tripod using pipe clamps. You can probably 3D print some spacers to suit the different size tubes!
When you put a second rail on, mount the drawer runners the way they're meant to be used, and it'll be smoother and more stable, also far less likely to be broken accidentally.

Yes, yes, and yes.
I need some suitable angled aluminium and some suitable spacers first.
 

Offline EEVblogTopic starter

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #4 on: July 11, 2013, 11:55:11 pm »
A jib crane with a counterweight might have been a little easier to build.

Where is it going to mount?
 

Offline marinedalek

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #5 on: July 12, 2013, 12:04:09 am »
Yeah, an extra pair of bearings would make sense, then you attach a plate (wood, aluminium?) across the front of the two black angle pieces to eliminate the side-to-side wobble. As for holding the tripod, how about a pair of something like this? http://www.xump.com/science/Burette-Clamp-Single-Coated-Jaws.cfm
The screw thread on the rear of the jaws looks like it has potential for mounting through the centre of the plate between the angle irons.

EDIT: Something like this:

« Last Edit: July 12, 2013, 12:24:22 am by marinedalek »
 

Offline Hewball

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #6 on: July 12, 2013, 12:29:49 am »
Maybe this will give you more idea's
http://openbuildspartstore.com/v-slot/


« Last Edit: July 12, 2013, 12:40:06 am by Hewball »
 

Offline Postal666

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #7 on: July 12, 2013, 12:30:42 am »
You'd have to hack up your tripod (maybe find an el-cheapo one), but if you reverse the way the leg is mounted, i.e. largest tube mounted to the angle bracket and the "foot" attached at the top, it would solve your up-down telescoping problem.   :-+
 

Offline DrGeoff

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #8 on: July 12, 2013, 12:47:12 am »
A jib crane with a counterweight might have been a little easier to build.

Where is it going to mount?

On the tripod.

Something like this, with the camera plate able to be mounted in vertical and horizontal positions.


Made one recently with a few lengths of steel tubing (mop handles I think) and a couple of weights from the local sports store. Less that $20 in materials.
« Last Edit: July 12, 2013, 01:07:32 am by DrGeoff »
Was it really supposed to do that?
 

Offline Short Circuit

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #9 on: July 12, 2013, 12:48:31 am »
« Last Edit: July 12, 2013, 01:06:35 am by Short Circuit »
 

Offline Nextor

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #10 on: July 12, 2013, 12:50:58 am »
I would at least try to use these.



I would even try to get the battery out of the camera and use external power supply to reduce the wobble.

Another great project for the future ?

:)
« Last Edit: July 12, 2013, 12:53:23 am by Nextor »
 

Offline free_electron

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #11 on: July 12, 2013, 01:33:10 am »
mount the rail on the ceiling. have a stepper motor to roll it along the desk.
have a worm drive telescope arm that can lower / raise camera ..

now that would be fun.
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Offline Monkeh

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #12 on: July 12, 2013, 01:36:13 am »
mount the rail on the ceiling. have a stepper motor to roll it along the desk.
have a worm drive telescope arm that can lower / raise camera ..

now that would be fun.

The ceiling moves.
 

Offline David_AVD

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #13 on: July 12, 2013, 02:01:39 am »
mount the rail on the ceiling. have a stepper motor to roll it along the desk.
have a worm drive telescope arm that can lower / raise camera ..

now that would be fun.

The ceiling moves.

That can be solved (horizontal rail on vertical pipes poking through the ceiling tiles in a couple of places and affixed to the slab above.  A lot more work of course.
 

Offline Monkeh

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #14 on: July 12, 2013, 02:03:10 am »
mount the rail on the ceiling. have a stepper motor to roll it along the desk.
have a worm drive telescope arm that can lower / raise camera ..

now that would be fun.

The ceiling moves.

That can be solved (horizontal rail on vertical pipes poking through the ceiling tiles in a couple of places and affixed to the slab above.  A lot more work of course.

An excellent way to piss off the neighbours upstairs, too. :)
 

Offline David_AVD

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #15 on: July 12, 2013, 02:06:11 am »
The ceiling moves.

That can be solved (horizontal rail on vertical pipes poking through the ceiling tiles in a couple of places and affixed to the slab above.  A lot more work of course.

An excellent way to piss off the neighbours upstairs, too. :)

Do the construction at night - they'll never know!  lol

I'm sure the transmitted noise of the camera rig running along the rail will be muffled by the corporate type upstairs going about their work taking over the world.   ;D
 

Offline Yaksaredabomb

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #16 on: July 12, 2013, 03:04:52 am »
I put this in the video comments but the forum topic is probably a better place:

Quote
Maybe a 3/4" or 1" diameter PVC or metal pipe could be attached to the angle bracket you’ve made.  Then, the tripod leg could slip in and out of the pipe very easily and quickly, like a cup in a cup holder.  Of course you’ll need a strap across the bottom hole of the pipe or another method to cap it.  If the pipe is long enough and snug enough, wobble should be minimal.

Seems like a pretty good way to do it, at least based on what you've already built.  Cheap, easy, convenient.  The biggest concern is probably wobble, but if it's too bad you could use a set screw (or equivalent alternative) to "lock" the tripod leg in place in the tube.
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Offline gardner

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #17 on: July 12, 2013, 03:20:38 am »
The drawer slides are strong and reasonably rigid, but they have no torsional rigidity, and are a bit bendy on the thin axis.  To get enough torsional rigidity you will need two running in parallel.  If you go to the local DIY to the section where they keep the aluminium extrusions for windows and shower doors and such, you should find a 5x5cm U-channel that would be suitable for mounting a drawer slide on each side of.  You could then mount them vertically, as they are a good bit more rigid in that direction.
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Offline mswhin63

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #18 on: July 12, 2013, 03:48:59 am »
Hi Dave,

I have used these conduit clamps for a couple of project, really cheap at Bunnings. Take the tripod down and see if they fit.

http://martybugs.net/wireless/images/collinear_conduit_clamps.jpg

It may be difficult for 3 sizes but maybe something similar.
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Offline SeanB

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #19 on: July 12, 2013, 04:56:03 am »
2 vertical rails to get it out of shot height above the bench then you can do a drop down tripod to the bench. The ends will just screw to the desk, and can be out of the way, using some aluminium square tubing to make the frame to hold the rails above so that the dolly runs smooth. Look to what Todd Harrison did in his garage, just a little smaller. His is quite smooth, and was made very cheaply.
 

Offline einstein

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #20 on: July 12, 2013, 08:21:35 am »
It might be better to use plain bearings, they don't make so much noise!
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Offline Simon Weel

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #21 on: July 12, 2013, 10:06:09 am »
One of these telephone swing arms mounted on the back or wall of the bench would be much easier? The space in front of you will be completely free, in contrary to the stuff you made up so far...


Simon
 

Offline EEVblogTopic starter

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #22 on: July 12, 2013, 10:09:41 am »
 

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #23 on: July 12, 2013, 10:14:47 am »
Well at least your not tearing down another bloody multimeter :phew: :-+
 

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #24 on: July 12, 2013, 10:16:10 am »
Do we need to club together and buy you a directors chair now "Action"
 

Offline ddavidebor

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EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #25 on: July 12, 2013, 10:43:25 am »
Dave search on goodluckbuy.com, there is tons of cam goodness in the electronic category
David - Professional Engineer - Medical Devices and Tablet Computers at Smartbox AT
Side businesses: Altium Industry Expert writer, http://fermium.ltd.uk (Scientific Equiment), http://chinesecleavers.co.uk (Cutlery),
 

Offline Ed.Kloonk

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #26 on: July 12, 2013, 11:37:03 am »
Put some grease on it already!



OMFG!

I just "listened" to this video. I say listened because the video was playing on the monitor behind me while I was soddering.

Takes on a whole different visual when Dave uses phrases such as "Velcro on the tripod shaft".

And at one point, when mentioning how easy it is to slide in and out, I was too frightened to turn around and look.

 :scared:




iratus parum formica
 

Offline madires

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #27 on: July 12, 2013, 12:08:54 pm »
Is mounting a camera dolly at the bench where you're working a good idea? I mean any vibration caused by working at the bench would hit the camera too, even more if it's mounted on a long arm.
 

Offline Radio Tech

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #28 on: July 12, 2013, 12:53:44 pm »
I like this.
I also noticed that it will always be a problem where it can be in the way sort of. Even the tripod gets bumped around some.  You said in the video that you cannot attach to the roof since it is just a lay in type structure.  A solution is conduit.  By using 2 vertical rigid conduit at either end on the bench with 2 pieces running horizontal to make a trolley system, this would keep it up and out of the way when not in use and out of the way when you are actually shooting.

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #29 on: July 12, 2013, 01:04:27 pm »
Put some grease on it already!



OMFG!

I just "listened" to this video. I say listened because the video was playing on the monitor behind me while I was soddering.

Takes on a whole different visual when Dave uses phrases such as "Velcro on the tripod shaft".

And at one point, when mentioning how easy it is to slide in and out, I was too frightened to turn around and look.

 :scared:
I was soldering at the time and I agree sounded a bit to hot for me, may he's branching out.
 

Offline Ed.Kloonk

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #30 on: July 12, 2013, 01:05:21 pm »
Hey, at the risk of getting yelled at, why not do the videos wearing the gopro? Switch in and out between camera angles in post editing.

iratus parum formica
 

Offline Ed.Kloonk

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #31 on: July 12, 2013, 01:08:45 pm »
Put some grease on it already!



OMFG!

I just "listened" to this video. I say listened because the video was playing on the monitor behind me while I was soddering.

Takes on a whole different visual when Dave uses phrases such as "Velcro on the tripod shaft".

And at one point, when mentioning how easy it is to slide in and out, I was too frightened to turn around and look.

 :scared:
I was soldering at the time and I agree sounded a bit to hot for me, may he's branching out.

He's a good lookin' guy. When this electronics caper fizzes out there's still one way to make some dough on the internet.  :P
iratus parum formica
 

Offline Things

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #32 on: July 12, 2013, 01:22:37 pm »
Hey Dave - one idea I used for a laser cutter where I needed an adjustable lens, was to get a couple more of those linear ball bearings you have (But maybe the closed ones), and some tubing the right diameter. That way you can easily slide the tripod legs up and down, and use a simple screw to clamp the rod to stop it falling down.
 

Offline jazz

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #33 on: July 12, 2013, 01:30:25 pm »
Hey Dave, I probably would have tried to put it overhead as well, just to have it completely out of the way. :) The ceiling apparently can't be used, but what about mounting something on the wall above the shelves? One of those sat dish wall mounts (mounted upside down) might work quite well for that. They're available in different lengths, and the ones out of aluminium aren't all too heavy.
Then attach some kind of camera arm to it, or just use the tripod upside down. You could even put your rails onto the wall then, and be able to slide the whole thing left and right without anything being in the way.

BTW, that whole thing basically screams for a spindle and a stepper motor (and some electronics) to turn it into some kind of CNC camera dolly ;)
 

Offline John Coloccia

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #34 on: July 12, 2013, 02:00:34 pm »
Why don't you just hire Francis Ford Coppola to shoot it?  I think it would also bring a certain feel to the blog that's been missing.

"My Tekway!!  Look what they did to my Tekway....all full of jitter.  I didn't know until this day it was Rigol all along.  Hey, leave the Weller...take the Vegemite."

Hmmm....yeah, maybe not.
 

Offline jahonen

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #35 on: July 12, 2013, 04:51:08 pm »
I thought some time ago that an industrial robot might make a nice and sturdy camera stand over a bench, plus that it could make nice camera pans along programmed path in automated fashion :)



Regards,
Janne
 

Offline Winston

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #36 on: July 12, 2013, 05:02:42 pm »
You might benefit from combining your idea with this, using a four bearing sled with two drawer slides under your bench, perhaps giving the drawer slides much better stability by mounting them as they are intended to operate on the sides of something configured like an upside down drawer upon which the articulating lamp/magnifier is mounted.  Might be getting to be too heavy of a load for those upside down operated linear bearings, though:

YouTube DIY (Bench) Camera Boom



YouTube DIY (Bench) Camera Boom - Part 2



« Last Edit: July 12, 2013, 05:13:06 pm by Winston »
 

Offline Dongulus

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #37 on: July 12, 2013, 05:15:49 pm »
Some strong neodymium magnets could work. If you apoxy a group of magnets to the right angle bracket on the dolly then you could fix some more groups of magnets along the tripod leg at various locations to achieve the desired heights. This way you could easily snap on and off the tripod to different lengths quickly.
 

Offline victor

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #38 on: July 12, 2013, 09:06:45 pm »
You might benefit from combining your idea with this, using a four bearing sled with two drawer slides under your bench, perhaps giving the drawer slides much better stability by mounting them as they are intended to operate on the sides of something configured like an upside down drawer upon which the articulating lamp/magnifier is mounted.  Might be getting to be too heavy of a load for those upside down operated linear bearings, though:

YouTube DIY (Bench) Camera Boom



YouTube DIY (Bench) Camera Boom - Part 2



I was going to suggest something similar, some kind of arm or crane jib. I suspect that mounting it on the table would certainly pick any vibrations.

maybe would be easier to mount it on top of a tripod.

http://www.amazon.com/Dino-Lite-MS52B-Articulating-Stand-C-Clamp/dp/B006YCW434/ref=pd_sim_sbs_p_18

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Photo-Studio-Light-Kit-Boom-Arm-Stand-Tripod-no-bulb-/250692239924



« Last Edit: July 12, 2013, 09:29:06 pm by victor »
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Offline lilshawn

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #39 on: July 12, 2013, 11:47:55 pm »
C'mon man, we are engineers! We don't buy things, WE BUILD THEM. (and make it damned complicated too)
 

Offline warp_foo

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #40 on: July 13, 2013, 12:57:32 am »
Since everyone is submitting their ideas, I'll submit mine:



Near infinite adjustability and coolness points.  :-+

m

« Last Edit: July 13, 2013, 01:01:51 am by warp_foo »
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Offline mickpah

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #41 on: July 13, 2013, 04:19:48 am »
Anyone know a source for these flexible monitor arms in Oz?
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/202684-REG/Delvcam_DELV_FLEX_Delv_Flex_Flex_Arm_and.html
Hi Dave,
think this is what you are looking for  http://www.digitalcamerawarehouse.com.au/prod9328.htm , Australian store used them about 2 years ago before seemed ok
 

Offline EEVblogTopic starter

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #42 on: July 13, 2013, 04:35:17 am »
You might benefit from combining your idea with this, using a four bearing sled with two drawer slides under your bench, perhaps giving the drawer slides much better stability by mounting them as they are intended to operate on the sides of something configured like an upside down drawer upon which the articulating lamp/magnifier is mounted.  Might be getting to be too heavy of a load for those upside down operated linear bearings, though:

Yes, I have though about something like that. I even have an articulating magnifying arm I can try.
But as Martin found out, getting a square shot is important.
And a big artciulating arm like that looks messy on the bench, that's why I wanted to try an under bench solution first and see what it was like.
 

Offline elektronicks

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #43 on: July 13, 2013, 06:10:05 am »
guys, one question:

next to the very inteligent sollution found byyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy DAVEEEEEEEEEE (and many neanderthal men), there is a +10k  3d microscope whatever that is and next to it an agilent +10k also .. so now..

what is this rant about:

a. dave building a dolly system (showing us nothing is impossible if you do it with your own two hands) ? :)   :-DD

b. dave performing on a stage (like the actors do) guiding audience towards expresing ideeas which then benefit somebody not defined, so he reports his chiefs on "building confidence", "beeing an enthusiastic leader". (founded by the industry of course)

c. dave performing on a stage (actors too) but not getting the ideas from others. instead they meassure active-ness, creativity so that the industry knows the resources to build upon looking at the graphs per topic / subject

i know i'll get heat from everybody. i can't care less. truth is still the truth even in minority of one.

 :-DD


 

Offline EEVblogTopic starter

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #44 on: July 13, 2013, 06:24:07 am »
guys, one question:
next to the very inteligent sollution found byyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy DAVEEEEEEEEEE (and many neanderthal men), there is a +10k  3d microscope whatever that is and next to it an agilent +10k also .. so now..
what is this rant about:
a. dave building a dolly system (showing us nothing is impossible if you do it with your own two hands) ? :)   :-DD
b. dave performing on a stage (like the actors do) guiding audience towards expresing ideeas which then benefit somebody not defined, so he reports his chiefs on "building confidence", "beeing an enthusiastic leader". (founded by the industry of course)
c. dave performing on a stage (actors too) but not getting the ideas from others. instead they meassure active-ness, creativity so that the industry knows the resources to build upon looking at the graphs per topic / subject
i know i'll get heat from everybody. i can't care less. truth is still the truth even in minority of one.

Did anyone understand a word he just said?  :-//
 

Offline SeanB

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #45 on: July 13, 2013, 06:31:22 am »
Overhead slide with a drop down camera dolly will probably work out best, you can put it up high enough that it does not come into shot easily, and then it will be easy to work with as well for both seeing the viewfinder and working on the bench under it as well.
 

Offline FrankT

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #46 on: July 13, 2013, 07:09:27 am »
My 2 cents...

I would have chosen square linear rails as they bear the load better in both directions.  In your application, you could probably get away with one rail as long as the load isn't too great. 

The second hand square rails I have aren't very noisy, but the are name-brand parts.  Another quiet option is to use v-groove rails which can be used with plastic wheels.

As for mounting, I think having it up and out of the way is more convenient.  I would have tried to mount them underneath the top shelf, then use an articulated arm to hold the camera above the bench.
 

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #47 on: July 13, 2013, 07:14:41 am »
guys, one question:
next to the very inteligent sollution found byyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy DAVEEEEEEEEEE (and many neanderthal men), there is a +10k  3d microscope whatever that is and next to it an agilent +10k also .. so now..
what is this rant about:
a. dave building a dolly system (showing us nothing is impossible if you do it with your own two hands) ? :)   :-DD
b. dave performing on a stage (like the actors do) guiding audience towards expresing ideeas which then benefit somebody not defined, so he reports his chiefs on "building confidence", "beeing an enthusiastic leader". (founded by the industry of course)
c. dave performing on a stage (actors too) but not getting the ideas from others. instead they meassure active-ness, creativity so that the industry knows the resources to build upon looking at the graphs per topic / subject
i know i'll get heat from everybody. i can't care less. truth is still the truth even in minority of one.

Did anyone understand a word he just said?  :-//
NO, but I've always been confused
 

Offline Stonent

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #48 on: July 13, 2013, 07:50:39 am »
The easiest mount I could see would just be to use some spring clamps.

Use the Velcro to set the height and clamp this over the leg to the L shaped metal.

http://www.harborfreight.com/2-12-nylon-spring-clamp-69290.html

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Offline mickpah

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #49 on: July 13, 2013, 08:10:49 am »
the meccano set like features of this appeals to me
« Last Edit: July 13, 2013, 08:12:25 am by mickpah »
 

Offline FrankT

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #50 on: July 13, 2013, 08:27:33 am »
the meccano set like features of this appeals to me


That is very cool.  And supports a 4kg payload, unlike the snake which was only 0.5kg.
 

Offline lilshawn

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #51 on: July 13, 2013, 04:02:46 pm »
guys, one question:
next to the very inteligent sollution found byyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy DAVEEEEEEEEEE (and many neanderthal men), there is a +10k  3d microscope whatever that is and next to it an agilent +10k also .. so now..
what is this rant about:
a. dave building a dolly system (showing us nothing is impossible if you do it with your own two hands) ? :)   :-DD
b. dave performing on a stage (like the actors do) guiding audience towards expresing ideeas which then benefit somebody not defined, so he reports his chiefs on "building confidence", "beeing an enthusiastic leader". (founded by the industry of course)
c. dave performing on a stage (actors too) but not getting the ideas from others. instead they meassure active-ness, creativity so that the industry knows the resources to build upon looking at the graphs per topic / subject
i know i'll get heat from everybody. i can't care less. truth is still the truth even in minority of one.

Did anyone understand a word he just said?  :-//

uhhhhm... i think it's the smiley faces throwing things off.

edit, edit, edit.... nope, still doesn't make sense.  :wtf:
 

Offline KuchateK

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #52 on: July 14, 2013, 02:12:42 am »
I'll repost a little what I've written in the comments.

First, reduce wobble on that aluminum angle. Add cheap and commonly available shelving support as a corner brace.
http://www.mgxmetal.com/products/metal%20bracket/metal%20bracket%20for%20furniture/02%20metal%20bracket/OFFS0002.jpg

However I would drop that drawer slide. They are wobbly. I think tripod will give you sufficient travel. After all you can always move something on your desk a little for a perfect shot.

As for the clamp. Photography/lighting guys already figured out how to hold something solidly on tripods. Get something like Impact Super Clamp. It has threaded holes (unfortunately imperial) on the flat part, so you can screw it to your vertical aluminum piece. It is designed for quick mounting and adjustment onto various sizes of tubes. Photographic handles on tripods and clamps have spring mechanism, when you pull it out it will rotate freely around to move out of a way, so it won't stick out.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/824360-REG/impact_cc_106r_super_clamp_with_ratchet.html

From my experience lighting stand with boom arm is great solution for lights or cameras above the desk. Stand can be equipped with casters to move around. It is separated from the desk, so it won't transfer noise to your mic and camera won't shake. They typically hold flash lamp worth couple kilos together with some lighting modifiers, so small camera is nothing even for the smallest stand. They make them huge if you need.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/331723-REG/Interfit_COR754_Boom_Arm_Stand.html
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/272945-REG/Impact_3218_Multiboom_Light_Stand_Reflector_Holder.html

I know buying ready made solution won't be a great hack, but it works ;) We want videos about electronics, not camera stands :D There are other blogs for that.
 

Offline Involute

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #53 on: July 14, 2013, 06:09:41 am »
Tripod dolly:  http://tinyurl.com/c8ju5eu
Tripod extender:  http://tinyurl.com/36js6pg
 
 

Offline DrGeoff

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #54 on: July 14, 2013, 06:56:32 am »
But as Martin found out, getting a square shot is important.

That's where a jib comes in handy. The shot is always square irrespective of the height you move it to. However I'd recommend using manual focus as those handycam autofocus things are a pain when working with moving camera, as they are alwyas trying to readjust. Just set it to manual and pull the focus for the shot first and it will look crystal clear without any hunting.
Was it really supposed to do that?
 

Offline EEVblogTopic starter

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #55 on: July 14, 2013, 10:14:04 am »
That is very cool.  And supports a 4kg payload, unlike the snake which was only 0.5kg.

Seems a bit limiting though because it seems the curved sections are actually fixed?
I'm leaning toward trying a Manfrotto 196 3 section arm on a swivel plate from the sliding trolly instead of the draw mechanism:
http://www.manfrotto.com/single-arm-3-section-with-camera-bracket
 

Offline BrianMason

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #56 on: July 14, 2013, 08:49:29 pm »

Take a look a "Benbo" Tripod It will reach over your bench easily and has a ball head. They are incredibley? versatile.

Mount your subject on the rail, this way the camera remains stationary and rock solid and the subject is easily moved on your rails, also rock solid.

With the rails laid (unfixed) on top of your bench there will be no bearing noise and your subject will appear to move smoothly in both planes and remain in focus. Placing a board? over the rails will hide them successfully, and give the illusion the camera is moving. I think you will be very pleased with the resulting images. You could also mount a turntable on top of the rails then you will have left and right; back and forward and the ability to revolve smoothly too. :scared: (anyone got a record deck?)

You may be able to adapt your current tripod to a configuration similar to the Benbo.

This would be a lot easier to achieve and you already have all the bits needed. Hope this helps.

Great you tube channel and forum by the way...keep up the good work. :-+ (I,ve even started saying "Tah Darrr" again ;D)
 

Offline 99tito99

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #57 on: July 14, 2013, 10:42:37 pm »
Dave you have it completely bass ackwards, you should be on a Dave Boom.



Cheers, Science-Mark
 

Offline TheEPROM9

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #58 on: July 14, 2013, 11:02:09 pm »
A jib crane with a counterweight might have been a little easier to build.

Where is it going to mount?

Only yesterday, I used a pipe clamp to hold a power supply for my VFD clock together =-)
Something worth keeping in the tool box, good for when the Epoxy fails.
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Offline dexters_lab

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #59 on: July 15, 2013, 12:19:01 am »
this new dolly arrangement defo needs some motorization!

Offline BrianMason

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #60 on: July 15, 2013, 12:46:56 am »
guys, one question:

next to the very inteligent sollution found byyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy DAVEEEEEEEEEE (and many neanderthal men), there is a +10k  3d microscope whatever that is and next to it an agilent +10k also .. so now..

what is this rant about:

a. dave building a dolly system (showing us nothing is impossible if you do it with your own two hands) ? :)   :-DD

b. dave performing on a stage (like the actors do) guiding audience towards expresing ideeas which then benefit somebody not defined, so he reports his chiefs on "building confidence", "beeing an enthusiastic leader". (founded by the industry of course)

c. dave performing on a stage (actors too) but not getting the ideas from others. instead they meassure active-ness, creativity so that the industry knows the resources to build upon looking at the graphs per topic / subject

i know i'll get heat from everybody. i can't care less. truth is still the truth even in minority of one.

 :-DD

Trying to resort to ridicule can be symptomatic of jealousy :bullshit: ;D
 

Offline moemoe

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #61 on: July 15, 2013, 10:46:40 am »
That's the way I would build it, apologize the bad quality of the drawing, I'm an EE student, not an arts student ;)

Using two drawers and two pairs of sliding blocks should make it much more immune to tilting and rolling.

For attaching the tripod's leg onto the big angle use a pair of laboratory clamps like http://www.descolab.com/laboratory-hardware/Images/03.jpg

I don't know if they are available with threadings on the long pole, but I'm sure you know a mechanic who will cut you threadings on them for some dollars into the coffee cash box (is there a better english term for that, in germany that's the regular term for paying a favour, 'Einen Euro in die Kaffeekasse schmeißen'). Then just use one nut in front and behind the angle.

Ah, and the construction is upside down as you can clearly figure out, was just easier to draw this way.
https://github.com/maugsburger/
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Offline Orpheus

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #62 on: July 15, 2013, 10:21:44 pm »


I actually designed/built a webcam video system very similar to that (but with a 3MPxl webcam) for an Industrial  Design course earlier this year, and will be offering it online soon as a donation premium (and  a seed project) for a Kickstarter for new kind of online hardware hacker community (which I will probably be pitching here for critiques and suggestions in the coming month)

The Tertial is not sold online and most of their 36 US B&M stores are clustered in few regions, but I've found it to be far and away the most promising and versatile base unit I've found and tested My first thought on seeing the video was to send Dave one of my prototypes (plus attachments), because I'm sure he'd love the versatility [e.g. mounted under the shelf over his workbench, its head would have 30" of reach and two degrees of rotational freedom, to do standard videos, closeups and even inspection microscopy without ever getting in his way, in use or stored, as a tripod or front-rail inevitably must]  -- but then I remembered his Mail Bag Embargo.

I really can't overstate how versatile this system is proving to be for me, especially with a few laser-cut attachments. I'm completely shocked that there isn't an affordable device like this already on the market for web-project photos, video presentations, etc.
« Last Edit: July 15, 2013, 10:25:00 pm by Orpheus »
 

Offline m12lrpv

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #63 on: July 17, 2013, 05:03:50 am »
Hi Dave,

I have used these conduit clamps for a couple of project, really cheap at Bunnings. Take the tripod down and see if they fit.

http://martybugs.net/wireless/images/collinear_conduit_clamps.jpg

It may be difficult for 3 sizes but maybe something similar.

I've only just gotten around to watching the video and the conduit clips immediately jumped to mind too.

A simple solution and any sizing issues would be handled by a bit of tape around the leg of the tripod.
 

Offline robrenz

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #64 on: September 06, 2013, 11:33:11 am »
I resisted commenting here untill I could put my money where my mouth is. This thread is my video response to what I think would be the ideal camera mount for Dave's lab.  I designed and built it for what I though would work well for my video and still camera use in my shop.
« Last Edit: September 06, 2013, 11:43:01 am by robrenz »
 

Offline phaseform

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Re: EEVblog #493 - DIY Video Camera Dolly For Workbenches
« Reply #65 on: July 01, 2014, 06:17:51 pm »
Bit late to the party but just thought I'd add my take on a bench camera dolly. I thought of a rail beneath the bench, which just connects to a spring arm as previously mentioned to move the camera around and has the camera on the end of that.


Only problem with this design is that the center of mass of the rig needs to be off the bench, otherwise the bearings running along the underside of the bench wont be in contact making the spring arm mount rub against the bench. Solvable by having another bearing for this purpose but regardless was just siting in my memory so I thought I'd write it down  :)
I built it with no welding in mind, just made of flat aluminum bar or steel or whatever.. and the moving rig is easily removable, like modern kitchen draws!
 


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