LightPainting Modular Orb Tool

thingiverse

This is a lightpainting tool designed to create orbs by rotating a light in a circle, then rotating the circle around its center. The typical method uses an LED or torch at the end of a string, but I wanted a more sturdy and flexible solution. This design can be easily modified to produce various orbs and accommodates wider light sources than traditional straight support axes. The orb's center should align with the painted circle. The orbs in the title image feature two 8 WS2812b LED bars controlled by an Arduino in the center, utilizing the FastLED and ClickButton libraries. The example sketch is included for those interested in the code, which can be easily found. I created several components to enhance the tool's versatility: A pipe end that holds two 8 WS2812b LEDs, available from Adafruit. A counterweight pipe end or any other desired light source. A clip for one 8 WS2812b LED bar for creating discs. Pipe ends with clips for various torchlight sizes, including the LED Lenser P7.2, V²-ALE, and Olight Maverick M10. The center of rotation and bearing holder feature numerous nut traps and cable tie points to integrate electronics as needed. Future parts, such as a PCB holder, will be designed to easily expand and modify the tool. Print Settings: Printer: P3 Steel Rafts: No Supports: No Infill: 35% Notes: All parts are designed without supports; further modifications are up to you. Custom Section: Required parts: The entire tool is based on 12mm diameter aluminum pipes, with each arm using a 1m pipe and the middle axis consisting of two cut-to-460mm pipes. Four 1m pipes will be needed in total. The orb axis is constructed with an M8 threaded rod, two 608ZZ bearings, and a couple of M8 nuts (nyloc for added stability). The photo of the middle part provides more insight. M4 nut traps and holes accommodate fixing pipes using 12-16mm long screws. The number of screws depends on the chosen parts.