Diy Motorized Camera Slider With Pan And Tilt Head
Are you tired of shaky shots and unprofessional videos? Do you want to take your filmmaking to the next level? If you answered yes, then a motorized camera slider with pan and tilt head is the perfect solution for you. This DIY project will give you a versatile and affordable setup that will help you capture smooth and cinematic shots.
Materials Needed
Before we dive into the steps of building a motorized camera slider, let's first take a look at the materials you will need:
- Aluminum extrusion (80/20)
- Linear rail (MGN12H)
- Stepper motor (NEMA 17)
- Stepper motor driver (A4988)
- Belt and pulley system
- Ball bearings (624ZZ)
- Nut and bolts
- Arduino Uno
- Bluetooth module (HC-05)
- L298N motor driver module
- 3D printed parts (slider carriage, pan and tilt head)
Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have all the materials, let's start building the motorized camera slider:
Step 1: Cut the Aluminum Extrusion
Measure and cut the aluminum extrusion into two rails of equal length using a hacksaw or a miter saw. Make sure the edges are smooth and even.
Step 2: Mount the Linear Rail
Mount the linear rail onto the extrusion by sliding it into the T-slot groove. Secure it in place using bolts and nuts.
Step 3: Install the Slider Carriage
Attach the 3D printed slider carriage onto the linear rail using ball bearings. Make sure it slides smoothly back and forth along the rail.
Step 4: Install the Belt and Pulley System
Install the belt and pulley system onto the slider carriage and stepper motor. This will allow the motor to move the carriage along the rail. Secure the pulley in place using set screws.
Step 5: Install the Pan and Tilt Head
Attach the 3D printed pan and tilt head onto the top of the slider carriage using bolts and nuts. This will allow you to adjust the direction of the camera as it moves along the rail.
Step 6: Install the Stepper Motor Driver
Install the stepper motor driver onto the Arduino Uno using a breadboard. Connect the driver to the stepper motor and power supply.
Step 7: Program the Arduino Uno
Program the Arduino Uno using the Arduino IDE. You can find the code for the motorized camera slider on various online platforms.
Step 8: Install the L298N Motor Driver Module
Install the L298N motor driver module onto the Arduino Uno using jumper wires. Connect the Bluetooth module to the Arduino Uno.
Step 9: Connect the Bluetooth Module
Connect the Bluetooth module to your smartphone or tablet using the HC-05 app. This will allow you to control the camera slider and pan and tilt head using your phone.
Conclusion
Building a motorized camera slider with pan and tilt head is a great way to take your filmmaking to the next level. By following this DIY guide, you will have a versatile and affordable setup that will help you capture smooth and cinematic shots. Whether you are a professional filmmaker or an aspiring videographer, this motorized camera slider is the perfect addition to your gear. So, grab your tools and get started today!