Conversion/modding tripod for horizontal

I have a 055CLB Manfrotto, a fine tripod for my purposes (got it at a steal of a deal too), I have been considering design and build of a main casting where the center column could connect to the legs, like that of a 055PRO for horizontal function.
I have a couple of "simple" ideas I can take to our tool makers and engineers at my work place, that I know they can make it happen with ease, however, I just thought I would ask if any other nerds out there have done something similar?

My Feisol came with a horizontal adaptor.

I've got a 055PROB and have gone in exactly the other direction. Instead of the split alloy casting which the centre column slides into, I made an alloy boss that looks rather like an upside down top hat with a threaded stud for the ballhead. The Markins mod for Giotto tripods gave me the idea after reading how much extra vibration is caused by unneccesary bits and pieces.

Just goes to show that everybody is different.

Richard