FLEXIRIG lite – Flexible rig system for compact cameras and action cams

FLEXIRIG lite is a universal, flexible, stable, and lightweight rig system that can be quickly adapted to the requirements of a video project.

The Challenge: The selection of camera cages, rig systems, and compatible accessories available online is virtually endless. Everything is represented, from professional brands ($$$) to generic, unbranded systems ($). Which one should you choose? Professional-grade options offer everything you might need, but the purchase price often exceeds the budget. Generic systems are affordable but lack sufficient mounting points; furthermore, their design often results in blocking access to memory card slots, HDMI and microphone ports, or the battery compartment. Why not use a system based on the "BYO Rig" (Build Your Own Rig) concept?

Solution: Let’s play with Lego Technic again 😊

A Comparison of Names Lego Technic <> FLEXIRIG   … naturally not set in stone 😉

Lego Technic > Liftarms/Beams     FLEXIRIG > Struts
Lego Technic > Beam L-Shape        FLEXIRIG > Corner Connector
Lego Technic > Beam T-Shape        FLEXIRIG > Middle Connector
Lego Technic > Beam X-Shape        FLEXIRIG > Cross Connector

The FLEXIRIG lite variant presented here is an initial version that I designed myself for small cameras and action cams, printing it on a 3D printer using PLA Rapido. The strut cross-section measures 8x8 mm, and the hole spacing is set to 12 mm. The various struts feature an odd number of mounting and attachment holes to allow for a form of mounting symmetry around the rig's center of gravity. For fasteners, I used M4 x 10 stainless steel (V2A) screws with a 3 mm hex socket (Allen key) and a cylindrical head: Amazon:
https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0DHPK9NG8?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1

The cylindrical head measures 7x4 mm; it should not be any larger or taller. With color-anodized or black-oxide finished screws, the head diameter can be around 7.1 mm, making it very difficult—or even impossible—to fit them into the countersunk recesses.

The internal threads are printed along with the part, but I always clean them up using the appropriate tap for all my 3D-printed objects. Therefore, if possible, please run a finishing tap through the UNC 1/4", 3/8", and ISO M4 threads after printing to clean them up.

In the first version shown here, I also designed and printed a few basic mounting plates. Other accessories could include smartphone holders and "Easy-Click" elements—such as those for the Kondor Blue Mini-Lock quick-release system. Mounting components for 15/19mm rod systems could also serve as additional elements, allowing the FLEXIRIG to be used with existing equipment.

Here are a few basic print parameters I used for the prototype version shown:

Filament: PLA Rapido black (For outdoor use, for example, ASA-CF should be used.)
Nozzle: 0,4 mm
Layer hight: 0,2 mm
Wall loops: 3
Top shell layers: 2
Bottom shell layers: 2
Top/Bottom Pattern: Monotonic Line
Sparse infill density: 55 %
Sparse infill pattern: Rectilinear
Speed: < 100 mm/s
Plate-Temp: 60 °C
Print-Temp: 210 °C
Seams Position: Random
Support: Not needed

I see the following advantages in the design variants and FDM 3D printing:

1. A versatile and flexible alternative to cage designs custom-fitted to specific camera bodies.
   

2. High scalability through a holistic design concept. FlexiRig struts can be configured for everything from lightweight 8x8 designs to heavy-duty 10x10 or 12x12 variants.
   

3. Thanks to the simple design, straightforward FDM 3D printing is possible on almost any 3D printer. None of the currently available parts require support structures.