Counter weight with rails scanner

[you1]

See it in action here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtSqXpKZRpM

Here is its predecessor and some reused parts http://www.diybookscanner.org/forum/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=47

I've removed the middle guide, because with this setup, the platen stays perfectly centered.

With my current setup, I've managed to capture 1200 pages in 45 minutes.

[you1]

More pics

[you1]

More pics

[you1]

Lessons learned:

If I had to do it all over again (which I may someday), I would move the rails to the front sides.

Because the counter weight lifts the platen from its rear, it has a tendency of not putting enough pressure at the far end of the book. To minimize this, I had to use less weight to counter the platen. If the rails were in front sides (side because we don't want rails to be in our way) we could completely counter the weight; and allow the far end of the platen to continue pressing against the pages of the book.

-Edvin

[fbonomi]

Beautiful thing you have there.

Also, I like the glass platen you are using: having plastic in front of my lens makes me worry about image quality.

And the edge covers are pure genius!

[daniel_reetz]

CONGRATULATIONS!!

This thing looks totally awesome. Great work... I might still use your counterweight design in my portable scanner. Awesome.

[daniel_reetz]

I would move the rails to the front sides.

Do you think that would make it uncomfortable to turn pages?

[you1]

Do you think that would make it uncomfortable to turn pages?

Well, I'm thinking that the rails will be located to the front/sides
Similar to the way you had prototyped them to rear sides on your portable one; except I will come all the way to the front (http://vimeo.com/5723950)

[you1]

Also, I would move and split the center counter weight, to two; one behind each rail.
That way, nothing obstructs me from turning the pages.

[tsttm]

dude...that is so cool.

you could make it into a convertible work out bench with those weights...j/k