Digital Map Case for Table Top Games
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- čas přidán 6. 03. 2018
- This is a portable case to hold a TV to display digital maps for table top games.
Follow this link for details on having your own custom TV Case built.
www.collabrewate.com/tv-case
The inspiration came from VolosWorkshop on Etsy. They do beautiful work! Check them out!
www.etsy.com/listing/52594034...
More fun and how-to content:
www.CollaBrewate.com
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Video editing using iMovie 10, shot with an iPhone 6 Plus:
by CollaBrewate - Zábava
Very efficient and simple design with a few cool flourishes that totally wouldn't be necessary if someone wanted to replicate this on a budget (like me). I don't have a table saw but I just got a miter saw so I'll probably just miter the corners and use a router to create the slot for the plexiglass. Excellent work!
One of the more professional looking DIY map screens I've seen. Good work!
Jonas Hansen Thank you so much!
That's a great and simple solution portable, storable, brilliant; good carpentry too. Much more elegant than big dedicated tables.
This is totally AWESOME!!! Great job! I'd love one of these.
Thank you, glad you like it! You can find all the details for ordering one here: www.collabrewate.com/blog/2018/3/6/portable-tv-case-tabletop-games
Nicely done. LMoP is a fun session too!
Sensational! Thank you for taking the time to make and post this video, well done~ We wish you good fortune on the adventures to come!
Wow, thank you so much!
Best and most simple build for this I’ve seen so far! Just what I needed as the inspo for my own build. Thanks for this!
Great build, nice work. My only suggestion would be to not make the plexi captive. If one of your stiles/short ends was screwed/latched instead of glued, you could replace the plexi if/when it got scratched or cracked. Smart to add the USB fan and carrying handle. Definitely stealing this idea!
you are my level 1000 hero...this box is 100 % what i was loocking for. Thank you
I've never seen a corner cutting jig like that before. Brilliant!
There are several videos out there on building these finger/box joint jigs. It is defiantly trial and error even after watching a dozen videos. haha Our jig now has evolved several times since this video.
This came out very nice. As a hobbyist woodworker and a noobie DM, I'm gonna start something similar this weekend!
I thought I was the only one who uses mustard on my wood projects.
Appearantly not. 😀
@@drbouquet420 Flavor.
So amaaaazing cant wait to have it home
Awesome build video! This was so helpful. I plan on building one of these in the near future!
bwahaha, I totally forgot that I already commented on this when I first watched this video months ago :)
Very cool! I like this idea very much.
Wish I had the skill and tools to have a go at this. Looks fantastic!
Good work! I really like the case! ❤️
Simply marvellous!
Thanks!
My plan is to add a single board computer running Roll20, which the players can use to move their digital tokens either by KB&M or over an app - almost my entire group has switched to D&D Beyond for their character sheets, so they have either tablets or smrt phones. Either a laptop or second SBC connected to a monitor for the DM and as long as there's internet connectivity it should be relatively streamlined. I'd probably need to add a socket hub underneath to run power for the TV and SBC, so the sides might have to be taller. For portability, this is probably the best VTT table I've seen!
Beautiful work!
Thank you!
Nicely done!
Thanks!!
Wow that’s really cool!
Nice bit of work you did there and all ready to take on the Redbrand Hideout. 😁
Not a bad idea! Plus 32inch TV's have gotten MASSIVELY cheaper! I like it! Thank you!
Absolutely! The 32" TV cases are very popular for being so portable.
Great project!
Thank you!
I love the sound when you're hammering Lol. I'm making my own now - will probably use a nail gun for the sides though - definitely don't have that skill!
This is awesome man
Thank you!
Nice build 😎
Beautiful
Nice vid, I'm building one now... With regular 45° corners doh but this idea of yours is for version 2.0. One change I will do is put the plexi in a router cut-out on top. I also wil protect the plexi sheet with an UV Foil against scratches. This although by putting it in that covered inlay on top will make it so that the plexiglass can be replaced when needed. Otherwise I will follow Your build walkthrough... TNx for sharing...
OMG SOO COOL I NEED IT!!!!!!
Epic af
That’s insanely bad ass...
Glad you like it! You can check out more information on our site: www.collabrewate.com/tv-case
You start your video without any jibba-jabba and useless talking about what you're going to do. I love it. I wish more people would do this in their videos instead of "HEY GUYS! WHAT'S UP! LET ME TALK FOR 5 MINUTES ABOUT WHAT I'M GOING TO DO, RIGHT AFTER THIS 3 MINUTE MUSICAL INTRO!" Keep up the good work.
Is a 32in big enough for the minis and good size encounter for D&D
Very nice, curious though if the mounting hardpoints could have been used to secure the tv in place?
Great idea. I wonder if some kind of matte plastic film would be available in rolls to use as a screen protector on this?
That is an amazing idea! We have considered this and have done some research on a film for plexiglass/acrylic and seems like they all require to be installed on glass. The search will continue...
CollaBrewate What about the Film used on Cars?
@@collabrewate2013 use lexan inexpensive clear plastic that can sit on top of the screen
In 1996, I remember buying a 27" TV and needing a fried to help move it up a flight of stairs because it was so stupidly heavy.
Now you can carry a 32" around like luggage
Technology is awesome.
nice idea
Thank you! It was a fun build.
Nice and simple to do. I might have to make something similar. I'm curious what other types of games besides D&D style could be used on such a table?
Any tabletop RPG or even some board games that have digital versions (for example on Steam)
Love the video. Thanks or posting. What USB powered fan do you use, if you don't mind saying?
Thanks for the great video! Do you have a guide/ materialen list? The website seems to be expired
I like this a lot.
I was wanting to make a gaming table at some point but something like this may be a good substitution to one.
We'd be happy to customize one for you. We could custom build a TV case that would fit into a gaming table.
LMoP for anyone who wants the map. It is the mansion in Phandelver. At least the hideout.
What is the little metal circular wire thing at 5:06 for and what is it called? Is that a fan screen? Can you post a materials list for those that want to try to build this?
Fan Grill indeed.
How many MM thick is the acrylic used?
Getting ready to build one myself. I had 2 questions. Is your fan pulling cool air in or pushing hot air out? Also Are the 6 holes on the bottom for air flow?
I would imagine the holes are to pull air in while the fan exhausts it out. 😁
The simply nailogical sound in the begging sent me into a flashback
So after you have the TV all ready to go, where do you get the digital maps to put on it?
What thickness of acrylic did you use?
One silly question, if you need to replace the plexiglas, how would you do it? Since it's glued, It seems quite complicated...
How do you replace the plexiglass when it gets scratched?
What about two plexiglass panels with printout inbetween and a lamp behind it all?
coo where do
we get the maps from??
Gundren Rockseeker like this!
I really like your idea and your work there. Fantastic idea, im going to build one by myself. Is building the cooler into the frame a thing you just did out of security or did real problems occur due to air heating inside that box?
Hey thanks, it was a fun build! At the time it seemed like a good idea so I stuck with it. Extra air flow is always helpful but probably not necessary. These TVs are mounted up against walls all the time with the same amount of space. I do make sure, however, I am not covering any vent holes that might be on the edge of the TV. Sometimes they are speakers, sometime vents, if there are vents, I put holes in the frame to let whatever pass through the frame. Good luck with your build, we would love to see your finished result!
@@collabrewate2013 Thanks. I just ordered the TV so it is going to happen. Im really excited and i will provide somes photos! :-)
@@KoomGERhow did it come out mate?
nice job !
Wich tv size is it ?
32" nor 40" ?
Cheers
Could you add 4 detachable legs to turn this into a tall standing table with a 40" tv being used?
Absolutely! We had done this before. We have used foldable hairpin legs so it can still be portable. Detachable legs would work as well.
@@collabrewate2013 awesome!
Awesome! Now show us the software side please.
Just use gimp or photoshop on a laptop. Hdmi out to the tv. Load the image on the background layer, then add layers and erase as needed for fog of war.
Was the a small fan you installed on the side?
That is correct. It is a small one, but does the job moving air across the back of the TV while in use.
Okay, so how are you getting the images on the screen though? Is is a specific program?
how did you electrified cooler to this table?
see my problem with this sort of solution normally is that there is a gap between the screen and the plexiglas surface that results in the pieces looking like they are floating a bit above the image. If I were to improve on this design, I'd actually throw away the tv shell itself, take all the inner pieces and the panel and mount them inside a wooden chassis so the panel sits directly touching the acrylic glass with some braces behind it to keep it flat when turned back over. you can also take the tv's speakers and mount them directly next to some holes OR use the headphone out jack to mount some of your own speakers inside so there is less distortion from the sound reverberating inside the case. that and maybe some sort of way to cover the screen while not in use to prevent scratches since the glass is pretty much just glued in there with no way to replace it.
That is just too cool. What materials were used and how does it work lol
Agreed. Wood. Holds a TV. :D
Wood, plexiglass, TV and LOTS of patience! You can mirror a laptop or tablet to the TV via HDMI or steaming device.
Just saw the pricing on these units. As nice as they are I'll give building it myself a try first. ATM that's just a bit to prohibitive considering it's frame unit. Besides, I want to improve upon my dovetails and I'm fairly good and building sliding drawers now. Good instructional video for woodworking though.
We highly encourage you trying this out yourself! What better way to improve your skills than on a TV case, good luck!
Is it optic fiberglass you did use for the project? And is a small gap necessary between the screen and the fiberglass for air flow? Great result, I like it!
Glad you like it! The gap between the plexiglass is the size of the TV's front bezel. We've built some with hardly any gap. The back of the case is open for plenty of air flow.
@@collabrewate2013 thx!
How strong is the screen protector in inches or mm?
Hey do you guys have a detailed guide on how to build one for ourselves. Looks like a fun little project
Sorry, no guide yet. That is a great idea for a future video!
What type of wood did you use?
Where do you get the digital maps ?
I tried to order one (twice) but haven't heard back.
The one thing I cant quite understand is what is the little 1" box you put connected to the TV via USB near the end? is that a speaker?
That's a fan to keep the television from overheating inside the case if its left on for hours.
You are correct!
I love this design and idea, I'm trying to make a case like this myself but sadly can't afford the tools required to make the corners or the deep cuts to fix the plexiglass in.
Do you think this could work by holding the plexi in place with a small overhang? (English isn't my native tongue, i hope that made sense.)
I made the same thing this guy did with nothing but a skilsaw and pockethole jig. You can buy wood that's already been machined and long enough to go the perimeter of your TV, just cut your 4 pieces and put then together. The pieces in the back used to hold the TV aren't necessary. Your TV already has an edge that can rest on the top of the wood, you just gotta he rwally accurate with your cuts. And if you need somewhere for the cords to go, just notch a hole in the side. His design works for him because he has a lot of tools and know how to make it in this format, but it doesn't need to be this complex.
The corners are awesome, but not necessary. You could make this same thing with a hand saw, a cordless drill/screwdriver, and a router (it would take more time obviously, but could be done)
Did you consider taking the LCD and electronics out of the TV case for a more slim setup?
I was wondering this, too. But at the end of the day you would only gain, at most, and inch in any direction. Doesn't seem like it'd be worth it, since he already has a pretty slim TV.
That is an interesting idea. Most the TVs we get for custom builds are rarely over 3.5" thick and that thickness is mostly in the base. I suppose we could consider that for a slimmer fit. Thanks for your input!
@@collabrewate2013 well removing the outer shell of the tv would also cut down on the gap between the glass and the panel itself reducing the floating effect you get. the plastic bevel of the shell limits how close you can get to the glass itself. plus theres the thickness of the glass a well. altogether, some setups depending on the tv can end up with the minis being about half and inch above the image making for some pretty wonky gameplay.
Any suggestions on where to get small fans like the one you used?
Search 60mm usb fan on Amazon
best buy/radio shack etc,
HOw do you get the map in the tv? I don't see where the USB stick goes in by on the frame?
You can either mirror a laptop or tablet through an Apple TV or Chromecast or connect a laptop through HDMI.
I understand that, bit how do you reach the port once the tv is in the case? Opening it?
@@enriquebertran Sorry for misunderstanding your question. The back of the case is open. We only use TVs that have all the ports accessible from the back of the TV as ports and sensors interfere with the frame.
where to get the maps??
I need someone to help me with modeling a portable case for tv's or monitors size range 32" - 37". Mainly for camping purposes.
Is the clear cover you put on the front pretty scratch resistant or replacable? I just worry about people moving minis on the screen eventually causing scratches.
The acrylic is pretty resilient, but I would take precautions by putting mini felt pads on your figures. The acrylic is not replaceable.
I've wondered about this too. Is there a clear, replaceable, film (like a phone screen protector) that could be placed over the acrylic?
Jacob Rogers That is a cool idea. We will look into that!
I'd buy some clear coat ceramic protective coating liquid. You can put that over the acryllic and give it very high scratch resistance
@@Jirekianu Interesting idea. We are't familiar with this process, do you have a specific product you'd recommend?
After having used different types of plastic sheets to protect maps while gaming I would invest in tempered glass for the top. The plastics got scratched and markers never completely came off. The problem with digital maps is obscuring areas that the players haven't been yet.
Good point about the glass, we will consider that. To clean our plexiglass we use Novus solutions. It comes in 3 parts: Cleaner, Light Scratch and Heavy scratch. Our experience with it has been excellent, extremely easy to use, and gets every scratch out!
For obscuring areas unvisited you could try a dark overlay layer on your map and erasing the overlay to reveal the map as you go.
You could also use a program that supports layers and hide cover layers to reveal each part of the map as needed.
Gimp is free and you could do a layer on top of the map and erase as you go. Super easy. Get a cheap old Wacom tablet and you can draw whatever you like in gimp on the map. Or photoshop if you prefer.
There are a ton of free easy to use tools specifically designed for the purpose of digital maps that allow obscuring areas players have not been yet.
If anyone replies cool… but do you really need plexiglass or can you just play on the screen directly?
3:12 The sped up hammer sound so funny XD
lol thanks for point that out, I had a good laugh playing that one over several times.
What software are you using for maps
We currently use photoshop/illustrator just because that is what we are use to.
Hi, how much for 1 of those marvellous Cases =)
Great build video! Looks like you are getting about 30x16 1” squares. What sized tv did you use? (I’d love to build one, but am trying to balance size vs weight. )
The box makes it look like a 32'' tv.
We used a 32" for this case. We custom build them up to 49" and range from 15-35lbs fully assembled depending of the TV used.
can you explain to me how you made the map?
That's a default map in the books if i'm not mistaken
@@soylencer Thanks for the information. Do you know any good tools to create such maps?
@@TheChosenBlade there are probably hundreds. You can really just Google rpg map maker or generator. Also check out /r/dndmaps or /r/battlemaps
not bad, are the squares on the map an actual inch?
Thanks! If the maps are scaled right they would be. Being a digital map, that is all up to the user. Some trial and error would need to be done to get the size suited for the game played.
@@collabrewate2013 sounds good! again, excellent video!!!
There’s info online about how to get it right. 40” TVs are standard for these.
Holy spam those finger joints must of been a pain in the balls
LOL They did take a while to perfect, but totally worth it!
@@collabrewate2013 i agree they are awsome but woof id of been sweating hoping everything lined up just right
@@SpintechfilmsI thought the same, but when I watched it closer, the first thing he made was a jig. That was the little piece he hammered in that stuck out. After the first cut, that piece slid into the slot, made the next cut, and continued moving the last cut onto the piece. It's clever and makes finger joints easier.
@@thomashudson3458 Agreed. I sometimes need to make larger finger joints for beekeeping equipment. I've used jigs for years, but the way @collabrewate did it is a technique I haven't used before. This method avoids the need to accurately replicate a spacing within the jig, by moving the replication step to the fabrication process on the workpiece. The downside would be tolerance pile-up, but most of that could be avoided by consistently (gently) pushing the workpiece in the same lateral direction each cut. His results in this video make it clear, even after all those repetitions in each joint, that tolerance pile-up was not an issue here. I'll definitely try this for my next finger joint project.
I think it needs a hinged lid to protect it, and a good handle for carrying. BRILLIANT! :)
I think the plexi does that.
The plexiglass does provide the TV screen protection. We have built a case with an additional wooden top to protect even the plexiglass. We love how customizable these cases are.
While I understand the desire to protect the display, if you'd like to use real pieces and minis on it like a board or battle mat, the parallax effect from the additional distance from the piece's base to the screen could be troublesome. I'd do a cover to protect the panel when transporting and storing, but have it removable to play directly on the panel itself. And OLED would probably be the most superior technology. I wish I had the tools, room, and know-how to build something like this. I might be able to find someone who'd do it on commission, eh? About how many hours of work would you say it was, not including drying and setting times? And about how much for materials?
It's honestly not going to be that bad. It all depends on the thickness, as you could get sheets down to 1 mm. The main argument for polycarbonate over a screen protector film is the added protection when traveling. I'm less concerned about putting it in the back of my car when I know the screen is protected against poking as well as scratches. Another added benefit is the ability to draw on it with markers. Instead of having the DM put down an area of effects in roll20, just grab the marker.
As to building it, check the description, you could actually have them build it for you:
www.collabrewate.com/tv-case
The job itself is rather simple if you have the right tools for the job, and the materials are rather cheap (depending on the cost of lumber in your area). The biggest investment would be the screen unless you're able to find something second-hand.
Would have used a different joining technique for the corners, seems a little excessive. But just my opinion. Cool build though
Thanks! Glad you like it. We settled on the finger/box joint because of it's strength. A strong reliable joint for a wooden frame holding expensive TVs. We had also considered wider/fewer fingers or even dove tails. The box joint was within our capabilities at the time.
Did a great job @@collabrewate2013
Can anyone tell me what something like this would cost? I’d like to have this built for our RPG group but have no idea what to offer
$550 with the Monitor.
Love it! Only suggestion is a brief write up on how you make it work.
That is a great idea! We are working on content that will focus more on the use of these TV cases.
What size TV screen were you using?
32"
@@collabrewate2013 Your woodworking skills are pretty sweet! Way beyond what I could manage. Those joints are cool.
ok, that is absolutely bad ass. You must be a pro woodworker. Name your price. My wife wants to know, cuz my 49th birthday is Feb 20th.
sorry, I found your website. thanks
Thank you, glad you liked the build. We recently created a new page for the cases. Just in case here is the link. We look forward to hearing from you! www.collabrewate.com/tv-case@@BDCSam
Its for a 32 inches tv?
Miguel Artorias Yes it is.
This is dope! What games require maps like this if you don’t mind me asking? E.g. what game was the map for in this video?
Any tabletop game that require maps, no limits! This one was used for custom Dungeons and Dragons maps.
I have to admit that it took me way too long to figure out what you were using the mustard for....
:D
Please WHEN is your workshop ready. It would cost me so much to just get the tools to do this, and then I would make a mess of it anyway.... Please please please.... sent so many emails
Been trying to purchase one of these from their website, but haven’t heard back from anyone. Are they still making these?
Kyle Grover Our TV cases are still in production. However, we are currently updating our shipping method and will be sending out emails as soon as we get it figured out.
Do you have an ETA? I’d really like to have one within the next month or so.