[52] Lights on

Even if I restrict myself, I can spend too much time on Instagram. I have to admit that most of the time, it’s useless content. But sometimes it can also be a great source of inspiration.

Today’s project perfectly illustrates this, as it is based on a lamp I saw on Instagram. However, wanting to give it my own touch, I made a few adaptations.

So the first step was to validate my theories (how to fix the LEDs, what thickness the white part should be to let the light through, how to fix the back panel…)

I mainly tested the tolerances and how to fix the front panel.

Once satisfied and convinced with the different concepts, I opened Fusion 360 to make the final design of the lamp. Since my logo is made of simple shapes, it was very easy to reproduce it faithfully.

There are several points that I could have modeled more neatly (such as the base grid). I’m going to need those techniques on other projects, so I’ll pay for my laziness someday.

Did I tell you how much I love 3D modelling?

Once the different parts were designed and printed, it was time for the final assembly. I decided to start with the front, which seemed more logical to me.

I printed out some small spacers to prop it up to the right height. I’ve also added walls to reduce light leakage and increase the adhesive bond strength.

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I also added the metal insert, which seemed to be the simplest way to fix the back cover.

3D printing can be pretty magic too.

Last, but not least: the LED stripe. It could have been the hardest part, but I spent enough time during the prototyping phase to make it as easy as possible.

My biggest fear was the soldering. I didn’t want to melt the plastic with the iron. But it went smoothly in the end.

So here is a note for my future self: it’s working very well. Just don’t spend too much tile on a spot.

The back side is pretty too!

There are a few things I’m not fully satisfied with:

- The play around the radii is not perfect.
— The face part is set back too far.
— The light is too yellow (yes, I know, I cheated on the pictures).

But I like the result that way, so I don’t feel the need to spend more time on it.

Now it’s your time to make a lamp :)

Lights on!