GoPro Underwater scuba Tray with mounts for 2 lights by rickcavanaugh

Last crawled date: 3 years ago

I have used this design on several trips with depths to 130ft. The gopro needs 2 lights to get proper spread and no dark corners. I get best results with a combination of the mid filp filter and 2 lights. Video at a 3-4 foot distance needs almost zero color correction. The handles and switch makes a world of difference for reducing shake.
I have made more improvements for 2018.
New version has improved upright for lever and improvements to the tray. Best to print all parts at close to 100% fill for improved strength. I have had best results with PETG over PLA, but PLA does work. This version has been tested to over 130 feet with no issues.
The tray handles need to be printed with a supports as the round portion typically does not have enough surface area. One handle has supports in the design. choose which one is better for your printer.
A few more improvements May 2017.
Latest tray has a mount for a tripod. Trying to hold the camera still underwater without a tripod makes lousy macro shots. I also added a focus stick for the +15 Macromate mini. Length is for a gopro 5 and gopro 4. with you thumb you can raise and lower the focus stick and and then press the shutter with your middle finger. These are big improvements.
This is a gopro tray for use with 1 to 2 video lights with ball mounts. The Gopro on/off switch is located in an awkward position for use with a tray. Using other trays requires you to remove 1 hand from the handle and press the switch which is cumbersome underwater.
I have added a switch which can activate the gopro with your right thumb or your right index finger without taking your hands off of the handles. This results in much smoother transition and faster on/off cyles to assure you catch your shot.
This has been tested with the GoPro 3 in the Scuba Housing (not the standard housing). The arm may need to be modified for use with other housings.
I have levers for the Hero5 as well as the early versions.
The tray prints upside down, so that the smooth section is where the handles and gopro mounts. You will need a 1/4-20 or 6mm threaded gopro mount and 6mm x 30 stainless steel allen bolts and 6mm stainless steel nuts. Ideally, the switch is mounted with a ss 6mmx25mm bolt.
Printed with 0.3mm nozzle in PETG at 0.2mm with 80-100%fill.
It has been tested to 130 feet (40m) and it did not crush