I badgered google gemini for precise parts list for _just_ a frame. https://share.google/aimode/ioNAEFsh2X9Y33eLQ > > It says there are lots of things one could do to get very high precision, and it's better if one drills mounts into a fixed board, but for a no-drill 10um-potential setup it gave simple parts for just a frame from tnutz.com (also the servo motors sound fun, the reel tensioners it said might be just $4 each but it recommended at least a $60 robotics motor for the main drive)
The formula for this context is roughly to prompt a language model for cheap designs for a film (microfilm) scanning system capable of micrometer resolution with high speed continuous 1.5m/s film transport. After assembling a frame i would pursue mounting motors. A larger frame than the below may be needed. This is a potentially foolish context because language models are often poor at spatial and precise design tasks. But they may still transfer strong experience to introduce one to new domains. I engage this expecting some glaring problems like massive scale, orientation, or logic mismatches. frame from gemini: 1. Aluminum Extrusion (The Skeleton) Search for "EXM-4040-SMOOTH". This is the 40mm x 40mm smooth-face extrusion. Dimensions: On the product page, enter your custom lengths: 2x at 350mm (Rails). 2x at 220mm (Rungs/Crossbars). Service: TNUTZ offers custom cutting and machining services with high tolerances. 2. Corner Brackets (The Joints) The most rigid and beginner-friendly option is the "2 Hole Inside Corner Gusset". Part #: CB-040-A. Quantity: Order 4 pieces (one for each corner). Tip: When you select this part, TNUTZ often offers a "Hardware Included" dropdown. Select the M8 x 16mm Button Head Screws & (2) Standard T-Nuts option ($0.95 extra) to get exactly what you need in one click. 3. Individual Hardware (If not buying the kit above) If you prefer to buy extra hardware for mounting your motors later: Standard T-Nut (40 Series): ST-040. These are loaded from the end of the profile. Choose the M8 x 1.25 thread size. Drop-In T-Nut (40 Series): DT-040. These can be added anywhere on the rail after the frame is built. Choose M8 x 1.25. Bolts: Search for "M8 x 16mm Button Head Screw". These are the standard length for mounting brackets to 40mm profiles. 4. Optional "Clean" Connection (No Brackets) If you want to mount your vertical camera tower without a bulky bracket: Inside Corner Connector: HC-040-B. This is a hidden zinc connector that slides inside the slots for a "seamless" look. Quick Impulse-Buy Checklist Profiles: 2x 350mm, 2x 220mm of EXM-4040-SMOOTH. Brackets: 4x CB-040-A (with M8 hardware combo selected). Endcaps (Optional): 4x EC-040-A (Plastic caps to cover the sharp cut ends of your rails). https://www.tnutz.com/product-category/40-series/
