Building a Custom Tripod with DragonPlate's Modular Connectors
At DragonPlate, we love exploring new ways to demonstrate the strength and versatility of our modular connectors. One of our team members, Ben, recently designed and built an innovative tripod using our carbon fiber tubes and modular connector components. While DragonPlate doesn’t manufacture or sell tripods, this internal project serves as a showcase of what’s possible using our system.
Inspired by a Problem
Ben was frustrated with flimsy camera tripods on the market. When one of the telescoping legs on his own tripod snapped, he decided to design something better—a tripod that was durable, portable, and elegant. The result? A fully functional camera tripod built with carbon fiber tubing and modular connectors.
How the Tripod Was Built
The tripod features three telescoping legs and one telescoping center shaft, giving it a compact collapsed length of two feet and an extended height of up to six feet. Ben used DragonPlate’s telescoping collet kits to provide easy adjustability for transport and setup.
The legs are joined to a custom 3D-printed tri-connector that integrates friction grip clevis joints, allowing users to adjust leg angles without compromising stability. The tri-connector itself is bonded around a central carbon fiber tube and printed using a carbon fiber composite PLA for a strong, lightweight hold.
Key Features:
Adjustable legs and center shaft using telescoping carbon fiber tubes
Tri-connector with Friction Grip Clevises for smooth, secure adjustment
Built-in bubble level for easy leveling
Vise Lock Ball Joint with 280° rotation and 23.5° tilt, allowing dynamic camera positioning
Rubber feet for grip on various surfaces
Components Used:
- Telescoping Tubes: 7/8”, 1”, and 1-1/8” ID tubes
- Telescoping Collet Kits: FDPCK-TELESCOPE-KIT-2 and KIT-3
- Friction Grip Clevises: FDPCK-MODCON1-FMLE-FRCTN
- Vise Lock Ball Joint: FDPCK-MC1-VLBJ-H
- Rubber Feet: RMRBRCAP.875ID
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A Platform for Possibility
Although we don’t offer pre-built tripods, this project is a great example of the versatility of our modular connector system. From robotics to aerospace to custom photography gear, DragonPlate modular components offer precision, strength, and adaptability for builders in any field.
Want to explore building your own custom structure? Check out our line of carbon fiber tubes and modular connector kits to get started.
Have a cool build using DragonPlate components? We’d love to feature it. Reach out and share your project with us!
