Manual Linear slide for field macro-cinematography

[markdeeble]

Hi

I am looking for a hand-cranked manual slide (leadscrew/ rack and pinion etc) for use in field macro cinematography.
I need the distance of travel to be c 4" and it to be able to hold c 10lb. Something like a Velmex Unislide or proxxon compound table top would be good, but I would like the hand wheel offset at 90 deg to the direction of stage travel as I would like to be able to follow focus with it.
Does anyone have any ideas how I might achieve this please?

[Craig Gerard]

First post....welcome!

Interesting project, hope you will keep us updated

Velmex do make a right angle crank.

I'll find some details and upload.

*Later note: scroll down this page:
http://www.velmex.com/manual_examples1.html
also
http://www.velmex.com/manual_gear_drives.html



If you want a smooth, silky glide, go with a Velmex UniSlide. The Proxxon is too course and the controls require too much finger strength which leads to an inconsistent, bumpy visual ride (and sore fingers).

There is simply no comparison between a Velmex UniSlide and a Proxxon milling/drilling table.

Hope this is helpful for now.


Craig
_________________
To use a classic quote from 'Antz' - "I almost know exactly what I'm doing!"

[markdeeble]

Wow! - that was quick - thanks Craig.
The right angle gear looks to be what I need, combined with a unislide. I've not seen the compound table, but I'd seen another member here recommend it some time ago.
I've got a macro-bench utilizing motorized velmex slides, but that moves the subject rather than the camera ( I used it to film fig wasp behaviour ). Now I am looking for something more manual that I can mount on a tripod and use in the bush. Key for me though is the ability to be able to follow focus as the insect moves, so I think the silkier the movement the better...