Fiberoptic Dot-Matrix-Display

Overview

Converts a standard 8x8 LED matrix into a smaller dot-matrix-display (DMD) using fiberoptics.

Required Parts and Tools

• FDM or SLA 3D printer
• 8x8 LED matrix
• 1mm (0.04") fiberoptic filament
• 1mm (0.04") thick clear plastic sheet
• Superglue
• Pin vise drill with 1mm-1.5mm bit

Assembly

1. Print the bezel, frame, and LED matrix mount.
   • 📝 Check out GitHub for steps to customize the models if you want to change the size of the display or other parameters.
2. Ensure your filament will fit snuggly in each hole of the frame and LED matrix mount.
   • The LED matrix mount is designed to not allow fibers to touch the LED panel but the fibers should insert most of the way.
   • Drill out any undersized holes.
3. Cut the clear plastic sheet to fit within the bezel.
4. Insert the clear plastic sheet into the bezel and snap the frame in behind it.
5. Cut a section of fiberoptic filament for each hole in the frame.
   • 📝 You may find it difficult to assembly later if the lengths of fiber are less than 300mm (~1ft) long.
6. For each fiber, glue one end into the frame and the other end into the corresponding hole on the LED matrix mount.
   • Ensure each fiber is pressed all the way into the frame and LED matrix mount. Recessed fibers will create darker dots in the final display.
   • You may find it easier to glue one row of fibers at a time.
7. Install the LED matrix into the LED matrix mount.

Customization

Want to make a larger display or use different filament diameters? Try customizing these and other parameters using the scad files provided in GitHub.

Related works

I'm not the first to design a fiberoptic DMD. Check out these other cool designs by elliotmade and Dr. Tõnis Gadgets!