Wireless LEDs are an exciting innovation in lighting technology, offering a clean, efficient solution for integrating light into your 3D prints without messy wiring. In this article, we’ll explore how wireless LEDs work and walk you through incorporating them into your 3D models. Whether you’re creating interactive D&D miniatures, custom board games, or wearable designs, this guide will help you add a new dimension to your projects.
🔗 Links and Resources
Wireless LEDs Used in This Video: https://amzn.to/3Zp5YPV
Tools and Materials List:
AA Battery Holder: https://amzn.to/4fnkKwk
Quick Connectors: https://amzn.to/3ChuAkJ
Toggle Switch: https://amzn.to/4fnkKwk
What Are Wireless LEDs?
Wireless LEDs use electromagnetic induction or resonant coupling to illuminate without physical wiring. This technology transmits energy from a powered coil (transmitter) to a nearby coil (receiver), which powers the LED.
How It Works:
1. Transmission Coil: Generates an alternating magnetic field when powered by an AC or pulsed DC supply.
2. Receiver Coil: Captures energy from the magnetic field and converts it into electrical energy.
3. LED Power: The electrical energy powers the LED, lighting it wirelessly.
The efficiency of this process depends on factors like alignment, distance, and the resonant frequency between the transmitter and receiver coils.
Setting Up the Circuit
What You’ll Need:
• A transmission coil
• A 9V battery and connector
• Quick-connect wires
• A switch
• Wireless LED(s)
Assembly Instructions:
1. Connect the quick connect to the coil.
2. Attach the red wire from the battery to the circuit.
3. Connect the black wire (positive) to the switch.
4. From the switch, attach the other wire to the black terminal on the coil.
5. Insert the battery and switch the circuit on.
When powered, the LED lights up within the coil’s range. As the LED moves further from the coil, the light dims, eventually turning off when out of range. This functionality can be used to create interactive lighting effects for games, decorations, or cosplay.
Designing the 3D Model
To incorporate the LED into your 3D model, you’ll need precise measurements for the LED and an understanding of tolerances in 3D printing.
1. Measure the LED: Use a caliper to determine the LED’s dimensions. For instance, if the LED measures 5mm in diameter, design a hole approximately 6mm wide for an easy fit.
2. Create the Hole: Use a tool like Bambu Lab Studio or Nomad Sculpt to add a cylinder (negative part) to your model where the LED will sit. Scale the cylinder to your desired size (e.g., 6mm diameter and 8mm deep). Position the cylinder where you want the LED to go. For this project, I added one on the base for underlighting and another in the main eye of a beholder miniature.
3. Slice and Print: Enable supports as needed. Slice the file and send it to your printer.
Once printed, clean the model, slide in the LEDs, and power the circuit to bring your creation to life.
Applications for Wireless LEDs in 3D Printing
Wireless LEDs are versatile and can be used in a variety of projects, including:
• Decorative Designs: 3D-printed lamps or home decor.
• Wearable Technology: Costume jewelry or cosplay items.
• Interactive Miniatures: Add dynamic lighting effects to D&D miniatures or custom board games.
• Educational Tools: Demonstrate science concepts or create engaging puzzles.
For example, wrapping the coil wire around a game board or table can create zones where LEDs light up when brought near. This can add an interactive and immersive element to your projects.
Wireless LEDs are a game-changer for 3D printing, offering a clean, modern lighting solution without the hassle of traditional wiring. Whether you’re a tabletop gamer, a cosplay enthusiast, or a maker looking for innovative lighting effects, wireless LEDs provide endless possibilities.
How will you use wireless LEDs in your projects? Let me know in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe to Maker Build It to catch the next two videos in our LED series. Up next, we’ll show you how to control LEDs with an Arduino, followed by a guide on optimizing your 3D models to incorporate LEDs effectively.
Until next time, keep on making it!