Hey guys, Was thumb ring thru dji's CES announcements when I came across this: http://instagram.com/p/xiMgmrtf9-/ It's been a long time since I brought this up again, but does Freefly have any plans to keep up with the competition and make a thumb stick for the m15/10 or 5? Last time I asked this I was told no. but there was talk of people making aftermarket controllers but alas nothing has come out. Freefly, Tabb, anyone Please. Could a Movi thumb stick become a reality? If there was enough interest?
Hi Eric, i´m still in the developing phase of a thumbstick. I have a working prototype and am currently in the process of designing a case. Unfortunately i had so much work with the M-10 in the last 4 months, that the project was stuck. I hope to present you some pictures this week and start the order process, mainly to the people already on my list. Best, Wolf
I came across this on twitter recently: https://aerialpixels.com/proportional-dual-rate-joystick-for-movi/ - looks intriguing!
This piece of gear would make me excited. Bonus points if they can integrate it into an ergonomic handle
Hi folks, finally i finished testing my thumbstick. It's actually a thumb controller, since it has similar features as the Spektrum DX7/8 remote, pan speed, tilt speed, roll trim and mode switch. It works wireless with the Spektrum satellite receiver, just bind and tweak a few parameters, save as a preset and go. You even can use it parallell to an s-bus or the Mōvi controller, just change the controller type in the gui. More details, a video and order options will follow till end of the week. The final version will get some small cosmetical changes, ie. one can decide between left or righthand, and i'm looking for some nicer potiknobs ;-).... Pictures show the prototype... Best, Wolf
Hey Wolf, could you get it to the size of the Aerial Pixel one? Anyone know the price of the aerial pixel? Didnt show on the link.
Jim, this is probably just a proof-of-concept, if this goes into production he'll probably reduce the profile significantly.
Hi, since i am using pots and switches for a direct access to all parameters i most likely won't be able to get it to the size of arial pixel's. My concept is different, since my controller is wireless and doesn't need a cable to the electronic box like the ronin or others. So one cable less from handle to gimbal. But the design will change and will get a bit smaller... Cheers and good night, Wolf
Here a short clip. sorry just iPhone quick´n dirty. The housing will be redesigned and most likely square, similar to the other ones available. I might need to put the controls for pan/tilt speed, roll trim, mode switch on the back then…. Best, Wolf Clip: Password:thumb
Nice! The size doesn't look too bad to me. I'd much rather the controls be all in front then behind it. That could get annoying. Even if you managed to squeeze it down another 1/2" or so, that will probably make most people happy. Most of the stuff that gets mounted to the roll bar is closer to the center for me, I hardly ever put stuff off that far to the side anyhow, so it shouldn't be in the way of anything.
Just a guess and mere speculation, but perhaps Freefly is more geared for higher-end production, so they figure alot of crews already have a separate operator for this task?
Thanks Jason. I will try two different options in the next days. Be back with new pics then. Best, Wolf
Hi all, so, finally, the "production" version of the thumbcontroller is ready. The size was reduced nearly to half compared to the prototype (s. above) and the housing is powder-coated rugged aluminum (extruded). The controller has the option to change pan speed, tilt speed and roll trim via pots and has a 3-way mode switch. To bind to spektrum satellite just press the stick while powering up. Regarding power: It takes 9 - 24 volts and has a BEC-plug (mōVI battery). There will be other options like p-tap or Lemo on the order sheet. First pictures: If you are interested in buying one, shoot me a message, and i will send you an order sheet. Thanks and best, Wolf
I will happily answer all questions regarding costs and how to order, but just in private messages... Sorry for that! Thanks, Wolf
I think Jason has the best answer as to why Freefly isn't developing a thumb controller: Freefly is more geared for high-end productions... I'd also like to note NAB is just around the corner...