Mirascope, Parabolic Mirror, Parabola, Paraboloid, Hologram

cults3d

Mirascope, Parabolic Mirror, Parabola, Paraboloid, Hologram Warning: Mirascope will only function if interior surfaces are processed to mimic a mirror. Update I have sent my PLA designs to a chemistry professor to explore how they can be polished and coated for STEM purposes. About Mirascopes The mirascope is a mathematical toy consisting of two parabolic mirrors that captivates children and adults alike. The two mirrors work in tandem, projecting a small object placed at the bottom to the top, creating a hologram-like illusion (see reference by author). Mathematically, the focal point of one mirror coincides with the vertex of the other, thus producing an illusion. Mathematically, the included designs should be effective. However, it is extremely challenging to polish PLA surfaces to create a mirror finish. Special surface processing and coating are necessary to make a functioning mirascope. One can also create one using metal like aluminum and then polish the surfaces. Alternatively, as a STEM project, you can collaborate with a professional in another field (such as chemistry) to find a solution. To save money and time (and frustration), you can simply purchase one from Amazon. Otherwise, have fun experimenting with multiple STEM ideas and processes. Among the files Version A is a single-piece mirascope requiring extensive support for optimal printing. Version B is specially designed for printing in two pieces. Version C also consists of two pieces in vertical position, with the two pieces .4mm apart. ####Reference Bu, L. (2012). https://www.maa.org/press/periodicals/loci/modeling-the-mirascope-using-dynamic-technology-1-introduction