Using the MineA5 in open cockpit cars, and how to protect the camera lens.

If you've ever run a camera in an open-cockpit car, you know the struggle. Every bit of dust, tire rubber, and track debris seems to have a magnetic attraction to the camera.

We really wanted for you to be able to use our kits in open cockpit cars, and we got tired of worrying about it, so we designed an accessory to protect the camera lens!

The Idea: A Tough, Clip-On Lens Protector

The goal was to build something we could snap on for a track session and pop off in the pits for cleaning. It needed to be tough enough to take a hit from flying junk but clear enough that it wouldn't impair the footage.

We settled on a two-part design: a 3D printed clamp that holds a tough, clear window in front of the lens. The clamp itself is designed to fit the MineA5's slightly tapered lens barrel perfectly.

We added a beefy M6 bolt (the kind you tighten with an Allen key) to lock it down so it wouldn't vibrate off on the track. For the clear part, we used a 1.5mm thick polycarbonate sheet—basically the same thing they use for safety glasses. You can't 3D print anything that's truly optically clear, so using a separate window was the only way to go.

How did we test it?

We took it to a Gridlife event at Laguna Seca and used it all weekend in three different Rush SRs. The lens protector took all the dust while the camera lens stayed spotless, and we didn't have to worry about it once!

Before a session: all cleaned up!

After a session, the window is all dirty, but the camera lens is safe!

What's next and when will it be available?

We are going to run a bit more tests and then we plan to make it available for purchase in the accessory section of the shop, as well as a new option when you order a new kit!

We also expect to keep improving the design as we get more user feedback.

DIY - Want to Make Your Own?

Since a lot of people in the racing community have their own 3D printer, we figured we'd share the 3D print design so you can print one yourself!

It's a pretty straightforward project, but it does require some patience when it comes to cutting the polycarbonate sheet into the small circular shape.

Steps:

• Print the clamp in PETG filament for optimal strength and a bit of necessary flex.

  • Link to the Fusion 360 file for the Clamp.

• Cut the polycarbonate sheet: 

  • You'll need a small piece of 1.5mm (1/16") clear polycarbonate. You can get it from Amazon for example.

  • Cut a 40mm circle out of it using a strong pair of scissors. You can also 3D print a disk for the window and use it as a guide for your cut:

    • Link to the Fusion 360 file for the polycarbonate "Window"

  • Polish the side to make it fit the clamp if needed (make sure not to scratch the surface, though)

Example of scissors to use to cut the polycarbonate sheet

• Insert the polycarbonate disk inside the clamp by stretching the clamp; it should fit the inner lip and feel secure.

• The bolt: You'll need an M6 screw and nut to tighten the clamp (minimum length of 35mm)

• When tightening the clamp, make sure to tighten it DELICATLY (it should not require much tightening) or you're taking the risk of breaking the camera lens barrel, which is less than ideal.

Voila!