Germany-based portable filmmaking tools and solutions provider edelkrone has just released a batch of 3D printable products. This line of DIY 3D printable filmmaking tools is part of their new “co-manufacturing” approach, which allows users to make their own camera equipment. Their ORTAK method relies on consumers to purchase crucial components while giving them the option to 3D print extra bulkier parts themselves.
“With the ORTAK method, products are manufactured by you and edelkrone together. edelkrone will manufacture the critical parts, such as CNC machined aluminum joints (or possibly electronic components in the future) to minimize cost, while making sure the end product works flawlessly. While we ship the critical parts, you will 3D print the rest of the product and have the ability to customize the design, form, and color to your needs”, the company writes on its website.
The 3D printable tools include the FlexTILT Head 3D and the Skater 3D. The former is a tripod with panning and tilting mechanics, while the latter is a tabletop dolly with comprehensive motion for tracking shots. Both are handy, compact and customizable camera solutions offering a fairly cheap alternative to market pricing. It’s also pretty easy to print and replace most of the breakable components within these tools. Both prints also use edelkrone’s constant friction technology, which means that they don’t use buttons or knobs.
ORTAK & 3D Printed Camera Tools
3D printing can be a very efficient means of making tools, accessories and functional prints, which are all a huge part of the maker community. DIY printable filmmaking equipment is already quite popular on various 3D model databases, so it’s not that hard to see why companies are now encouraging consumers to co-create with them by using this same trend.
ORTAK and other methods like it present a new and interesting business model for edelkrone and other manufacturers. It not only allows for shutterbugs and filmmakers to get creative with their equipment, but also allows the company to provide an alternative to their more expensive products. Users can buy the crucial components for just €29 and print the rest of the plastic bits at home. On the other hand, the pre-produced and assembled products edelkrone offers can cost upwards of €100.
The company has verified these tools on popular desktop 3D printers, including Ultimaker, Prusa i3 MK3S and Zaxe. They also provide comprehensive assembly guides and suggested print settings to help users along.
Featured image courtesy of edelkrone.
