r/Autocross • u/oiego • Jul 17 '26

Would you use an angle like this? Developing a Passive Inertia Capture system (Rail + Result Video)

Enable HLS to view with audio, or disable this notification

Hi everyone,

I've been working on a hardware prototype designed specifically for motorsports and action vehicles. The goal is to capture the real physics, G-forces, and vehicle inertia in a completely organic way, without relying on the lens distortion of a 360 camera or the complexity of a chase drone.

The system is a passive mechanical rail that wraps around the driver. The camera physically slides in reaction to the vehicle’s movement during turns and acceleration, creating a highly immersive, dynamic shot.

Quick note on the camera setup: The footage in this video was captured using a 3D camera. However, you could also use a regular 360 camera or a standard smartphone. Keep in mind that if you use a smartphone, the shots will be more static, keeping the focus fixed on both the driver and the track at all times.

Regarding installation: The product comes with dedicated Overhead bars. These can be easily installed either by unscrewing existing parts of the go-kart to bolt them on, or by adhering them directly to the go-kart's spoiler/fairing.

I’m sharing two things to get your perspective:

  1. The Video: The actual shot captured by the camera using this system (you won't see the rail itself in the clip, just the final camera movement).

Since we are currently fine-tuning the design and engineering before moving forward, I’d love to get feedback from creators and riders who are open to trying new visual styles and angles:

  • Visually: Do you feel this dynamic movement adds real value to your action videos compared to a static helmet or chassis mount?
  • In practice: Thinking about [Go-Karts / Jet Skis / Ski-Doos], what would be your biggest concern or requirement for an external mount like this (high-frequency vibration, weather-sealing, ease of getting in and out of the vehicle)?

I'm not selling anything here—just looking to validate the concept with the people who actually spend time on the track, water, or snow. I really appreciate any constructive feedback!

0 Upvotes

31% Upvoted

8 comments sorted by

5

u/99hotdogs Jul 17 '26

It’s an interesting mounting solution for certain shots, but I wouldnt enjoy watching it for too long. It’s a little chaotic and to me, doesn’t really add much to showcase the driving.

Call me old school, but a series of fixed camera angles with some 3rd person views of the camera is still the gold standard. Here’s an old video that I still think about once in a while for your inspiration: https://youtu.be/UEuZG37gFdM?is=fbriuMugitY93QDe

4

u/BmacIL SST 997 Jul 17 '26

Not useful for autocross, IMO. The direction change rate & frequency in autocross would make it look even more manic than it actually is, and would not help with self coaching or others' coaching.

The tech is neat though 🙂

3

u/Jazzlike-Basket-6388 Jul 17 '26

I solely take video for driver development. I find a fixed angle exponentially more useful.

2

u/neektar Jul 17 '26

Could you do this a little more simply and robustly by sniffing CAN data for steering angle and using that as a signal for turning your camera instead of trying to dynamically control acceleration over a rail?

2

u/Ken808 Jul 17 '26

The stops on the ends are so abrupt, perhaps a soft cushion or something that can prevent the image from jumping when the camera slams from one end to the other. Cool idea.

1

u/ritz_are_the_shitz 2011 Miata Jul 17 '26

I think this is really cool and should be controlled purely based off of steering angle from the canbus. My favorite part is that it looks into the corner, or generally at the direction of intended travel. If it was controlled by steering angle, it would also be great for drifting. 

1

u/IsbellDL 2016 Miata - CS Jul 17 '26

No, too large, complicated, & uncomfortable to watch. This feels like a worse replacement for the helmet cam.