There was an old dead thread about building one of these based on the Merlin but, I decided to go ahead and start a new thread since all the links in the other were dead. Old Thread
So, since I started getting into video I thought a steadicam would be a useful tool. I considered a Glidecam which would have been a quick, easy and economical route. After doing some in-depth research, I decided quick, easy and economical were not my style. Once I saw the video by "Freerobotsex" on youtube, I knew what I had to do...make my own Merlin.
His video is here.
Having never used a steadicam of any kind, I did a lot of research first. I gathered ideas from all the other DIY'ers who've gone before and came up with a general plan. Since I also build custom motorcycles, I have a fairly well equipped shop. I know this is not a build that the average DIY'er is going to be able to do but, I think I will go ahead and produce technical drawings so if anyone else has the desire, and the means, they will be available.
I had some time yesterday so I got started. Here is a bad cellphone photo of what I was able to accomplish in about five hours.
Steadicam project baseplate
by Ranger_Bob, on FlickrThere is an Arca style clamp attached to the other side of the plate. The non-threaded rails are made from drill rod and will be replaced with stainless steel. I will be using a small LED flashlight as the handle like other builders have done along with the same basic bearing and Ofna universal joint setup. I don't think I will do a folding arm like the Merlin.
So there's the start. I will update as I make progress and I will post CAD files sometime after I get it all finished up.
Bob
