Laser XY projector

thingiverse

My family is part of Project Night Light, a program that aims to make a difference in the lives of children. To take this effort to the next level, I wanted to create something truly special - a laser light show. This idea sparked my creativity and led me to explore various possibilities. One project that caught my attention was an Arduino-based Laser Scanner found on Instructables. The final product is a state-of-the-art laser projector that can be controlled remotely using WiFi from a phone within a browser connected to http://192.168.4.1. This innovative device has the potential to create breathtaking displays. To bring this concept to life, I assembled a list of essential components: * WeMOS wifi UNO: A compact and affordable WiFi development board that serves as the brain of the operation. ($3.41) * Stepper drivers (A4988): These modules control the movement of the laser projector's steppers with precision. ($0.91 for a pair) * NEMA14 stepper motors: High-quality motors that provide smooth and accurate movement. ($10 + shipping per motor) * Capacitors: Important components that help regulate power and prevent damage to the system (a few pennies) * Wires: The lifeblood of any electrical project, these wires connect all the components together * Mirrors: Critical components that help redirect the laser beam. You can use either laser mirrors or HD platter mirrors cut to size. * Small bearings: These tiny components support the movement of the steppers and ensure a smooth operation (OD: 10mm, ID: 3.15mm) * Laser module: A vital component that emits the laser beam (designed for lasers with 12mm OD) * Power supply: Provides the necessary power to run the system (12V) * Connectors: Essential for connecting the WeMOS wifi UNO to the stepper drivers and power supply * Step-down converter: This component reduces the voltage from 12V to 5V, ensuring safe operation of the laser module * PCB board: A printed circuit board that helps organize the wiring and make connections easier * M3 screws: Used for assembling the system * Solder and soldering station: Essential tools for connecting the components together To test the device indoors, I recorded a video showcasing its capabilities. The results can be seen in this YouTube video: https://youtu.be/0PBSU1zWrfc. For outdoor testing, I pushed the limits of the laser projector's range and captured the footage in another YouTube video: https://youtu.be/sf-cKriMoB0.