Monitor MOD

[Crimson Sky]

Cool...but the size is up to you--add it to your monitor model after you make it and see what looks best. The ones I made already are just prototypes, and of different size.

[Spacehonkey]

OK Crimson, I just finished the T-handle screw in SketchUp. I'm not sure how to e-mail the sketchup file to you though.

[Crimson Sky]

Cool I got it.

[Spacehonkey]

I did a test run with the gooseneck and the monitor. The gooseneck by itself isn't strong enough to support the weight of the monitor. So I replaced the old thin wire that was running through the backbone with thicker 16 gauge wire to see if that will help support the weight of the monitor.

Before I can give it a true test though I have take the center wire out and replace it with the gooseneck then put the backbone back together again. The problem I have with that is not all the pieces are that same size so I'll have to cut away some of the bone to make the gap bigger (smaller pieces) and on others I have to drill a large hole where the center wire was going through it (larger pieces). Maybe the picture will explain what I mean better.

I don't think I'll get a chance to work on this until next week though.

[Crimson Sky]

I thought that the weight might be a problem...Have you considered wrapping or even braiding multiple strands of wire instead to create a strong coil running thrugh the vertebrae?

[Spacehonkey]

I thought that the weight might be a problem...Have you considered wrapping or even braiding multiple strands of wire instead to create a strong coil running thrugh the vertebrae?

I never thought about that. A buddy of mine at work also suggested replacing one of the middle pieces with a strong joint and have the top and bottom piece have a steal rod going through it. There are a couple different ways to try this I might try your braided wire first since it shouldn't require curving into the vertebrae.

[Crimson Sky]

braiding with two or even three wires might just be the answer for flexibility and rigidity. Simply wrapping the wire around a core would be less effective since it will tend to uncoil slightly went bent.

You will probably need a braided core of at least 3/4"-1" to support the monitor. One idea is to go to Lowes or Home Despot and get 1/4" flexible copper tubing used for water lines for refridgerator ice makers. I would bundle 3 of these together and start braiding with either jacketed copper wire or bare wire (both stranded)until it can support the weight. You can then cover the braid with black split loom tubing and start stacking the vertebrae

[mellojoe]

Jebuz, Crimson, you know everything. That is an awesome idea.

You've done one or two of these before, huh?

[Crimson Sky]

Jebuz, Crimson, you know everything. That is an awesome idea.

You've done one or two of these before, huh?

Actually its all theory. It may not be strong enough. We are talking of at least 8-10 lbs of dead hanging weight to support---and thats just the monitor without the mods attached..

[Crimson Sky]

Or you can splurge and get one of THESE. Made for use in cars/trucks. I bet they come apart as well for modding. Also has the proper VESA mounting bracket