I'm researching the feasibility of a rig that would allow both cinematic documentary work and events coverage. Naturally, focus is ever more important, and then this idea hit me:

Consider a flex focus controller like the Canon FFC-15, FFC-200, FC-40. They're affordable, great for tripod work, and transfer the rotational motion not unlike a whip*. Now consider just about any follow focus unit with a whip socket. Can you marry the two?

Sure the connections are not compatible, but it should be a simple mechanical solution. We may not even need additional gears.

Has it been done before? Are there any available solutions to make it happen?


(* If you're not familiar with the flex controllers, here's a closeup of the cable terminals: http://www.salesbaron.net/f/ABD011.jpg )

Drew are you thinking of keeping the FF on and being able to plug in a focus cable to where the whip or speed crank goes? I should work but I don't know how compatible all the gearing is.

Varizoom also makes something similar that could be used.

VariZoom VZFCF22 Rear Focus Control VZ-FCF22 B&H Photo Video

-Garrett

Drew are you thinking of keeping the FF on and being able to plug in a focus cable to where the whip or speed crank goes?

Exactly. Many good FF units are out there these days, and they're a good addition to anyone's kit. It's about doing this little mechanical adaptation inbetween.

The Varizoom unit you mentioned is simply their own flex focus controller, comparable to the Canon/Fujinon/JVC units.