Camera Dolly & Rails by rwjamieson

Last crawled date: 3 years, 1 month ago

A camera dolly and rail system that can support a dSLR or other video gear. The system uses 608 series "skateboard" ball bearings and standard hardware found at any home improvement store.
Rails and legs can be made out of any 1" OD tubing or pipe (3/4" steel EMT is cheap and works well).
Update Aug 16: Added motor mount and refined the overall design to improve fit for 3/4" EMT (previous version was too loose).
Update Aug 21: Added rope pulley (fits 5mm motor shaft) and features on end block for attaching rope. Use this and a motor to pull the carriage along the rails.
Parts List:
1x Carriage
2x End Block
4x End Block Leg Adapter
4x Foot
1x Carriage Motor Mount
1x NEMA 17 Stepper Mount
Optional:
Offset Leg Adapter - Replaces standard version and allows adjustable legs (good for uneven surfaces or outdoors)
Hardware Required:
Carriage:
8x 608 series ball bearing (skateboard or rollerblade bearings)
4x 5/16-18 Bolt 1-1/4" long
4x 5/16-18 Bolt 1-1/2" long
8x 5/16 Lock Nut
1x 1/4-20 Bolt 3/4" long
1x 1/4-20 Nut
2x M4x15 Socket Head Cap Screw
2x M4 Lock Nut
End Blocks & Legs:
20x M4x20 Socket Head Cap Screw
20x M4 Nut
(as required) 3/4" EMT conduit (or other tubing with 1" OD)
Optional:
4xM4x20 Socket Head Cap Screw for Offset Leg Adapter