Multi-axis 2-in-1 Dolly Cam Slider and Car

After countless hours of prototyping, testing, over 2 kg of filament, and more than 50 hours of print time, I’m proud to share with you my Multiaxial 2-in-1 Dolly Cam Slider and Dolly Car – a fully 3D-printed, metal-free design.

Unlike most models that offer either a straight rail or a rotatable dolly, this build combines both curved and straight rail options, plus full multiaxial adjustability. It includes customizable movement along the X and Y axes, along with tilt and swivel functionality. The system also supports extensions with properly joined rails for added stability.

This is a proof of concept demonstrating that a stable, functional camera slider can be entirely 3D printed – no metal bearings, rods, or custom parts required.

Before you start, please do check my profile for other models. I spend time doing some simple decor designs and other functional designs. Below is a sample of my latest models, hope you enjoy them too!

Key Features:

• Multiaxial System: Offers independent X and Y sliding, along with tilt and swivel adjustment.
• Y-axis: Uses fixed-height markers for positioning.
• X-axis: Uses a screw-stopper mechanism; the weight is offloaded onto the Y-slider, reducing stress.
• Tilt/Swivel: Controlled with gear-like teeth for locking angles, and optional screw/nut adjustment for dynamic use.
• Universal Usage: Swap wheels to convert between slider and dolly car. Compatible with axis adapters—no need to reprint parts depending on setup.
• Fully 3D-Printed: No metal or special components needed. Designed for practical use with consumer-grade FDM printers.

Design Philosophy:

The idea was simple: one modular system that works as both a rail slider and dolly car. Users shouldn't have to choose or reprint parts—print once, use it flexibly. Whether mounted on straight or curved rails or running solo as a dolly, it should remain compatible with all slider components.

This project went through many detailed iterations to achieve tight tolerances, especially where the slightest layer inconsistency affects functionality.

Why the Delay?

Originally, I used a Bambu A1 mini but switched to a P1S. In between, I mistakenly bought an S1 Kobra, which significantly slowed progress due to print issues. During this time, I focused on designing rather than prototyping, which created further delays. Eventually, with the P1S, I caught up and pushed the project forward.

Known Limitations:

Stability & Counterweights:

The camera slider requires counterweighting to prevent tipping. There are various ways to achieve this:

• Widening the base or adding side weights compromises functionality.

• Adding weight to the rails limits standalone dolly use.

   

Current solution that has been implemented: two center-mounted stabilization wheels to balance the load without excessive bulk.
Still, the two wheels bear significant stress and may wear faster.

Material Limitations:

Being FDM-printed plastic, expect higher friction than machined metal systems. Lubrication helps, but minor dimensional inaccuracies can occur.

Mounts:

Currently, only a universal phone mount (up to 120mm) is included. More mounting options are planned in future updates.

Complexity:

Due to its multifunctional nature, the model consists of many components. Assembly is straightforward but requires patience.

Feedback

This model has been thoroughly tested, but your feedback is invaluable. I hope this inspires others and shows what’s possible with pure 3D printing, even for demanding applications like camera movement systems.

Terminology

Terminology is important in case you want to download the STLs. Check them out here, they're sorted into folders for easy assembly :) 

Assembly: video process

The following GIF shows the process and its result. Compare it with the textual guide and you will get your result. Please note that screws and nuts need to be adjusted. Putting bottom and top nuts will prevent the bearings screw from moving. You might need to adjust the height of nuts.

I hope you enjoy it! Happy printing and please do share your prints with me. Your feedback is much appreciated. Graphical assembly (images) will be uploaded later. Currently, there's the video process. Please be patient :)

Check out my profile, I post decorations and functional models and accept custom models wishes. Your support means a lot!