Automated camera slider

Initial design and electronics evaluation

A good friend and cinematographer was interested in a camera slider for automated time-lapse footage, but was not interested in the $6k pricetag that introductory-level systems cost. Additionally, he sought a modular system that could be easily transported in the backcountry and with rails that could be purchased at any Home Depot or comparable hardware store if he traveled abroad. I decided to use readily available conduit, and rather than design a custom control system I found a pre-existing product that seemed like it would integrate nicely. After some prelimary work on a camera carriage design and drive system I ordered some motors and built my first prototype. Here is a video of my first learnings.

CAD feature refinement

Based on the outcomes of my initial testing and some additional design requirements, I developed a carriage with angle adjustments and modules to provide additional pan and tilt capabilities.

CAD finalization and device build

The CAD model allowed for interference detection throughout the full range of motion. Several days in my workplace's machine shop later and the camera slider was a reality - for $1100, or less than 20% what a commercial version would cost.