The Birth of a 3D Printed 3-Axis Gimbal

[Snarls]

Hey everyone! I just wanted to update this design thread by sharing some updates.

The original gimbal design has been updated with changes that make it even more stiff and resistant to vibrations. I have been using this new design and it really has been an improvement.
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2538360

I have also made a modified version of the gimbal so that it can now support GoPro Session cameras. I have not had the time to test the new design changes (2 new parts to mount the camera), but from the CAD it looks like things should work.
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2804872

There are at least two more gimbal designs that I want to make/share with you all, but so far they have been challenging. I hope to spend some time working on them so that I share them with you!

 

[kpixels]

Hi Snarls, Nice work!
I built a rig like yours (not as nice) with a front mounted gimbal. That was tough enough for me, I can't imagine actually manufacturing the gimbal too. Mine flew away about the time I got everything tweaked on it. I had GPS for it but had procrastinated installing it, lesson learned. Since I was more used to flying fixed camera and using the FPV view (monitor not goggles) to determine the orientation if I get too far out, with the gimbal, once I got out too far and tried to fly it back by the FPV view and sort of panicked (dropped) when I realized the gimbal was masking my pitch and roll, go figure. I had almost a year of successful flights with the thing, mainly just lost track of camera pitch.
Will be watching for your threads and videos,
Ken

 

[Snarls]

Hi Ken, thanks for the kind words. That is unfortunate what happened to you. I agree that flying through a gimbal can be difficult. With GPS assistance, it is easier, but the spacial awareness is nothing like having a fixed FPV cam. I generally like to frame my shots through the gimbal, and fly LOS when possible.