Lucid Dreamachine

This instructable is an inexpensive re-make of Brion Gysin's Dreamachine. This lucid dream machine is simply a cylinder with holes punched in it so, when spun, creates a flickering light pattern across your closed eyelids. This flickering is supposed to cause a state of lucid dreaming. This means that you are unconscious and dreaming, but are aware of what is happening and able to control your dream.
More about them here
-OR-
Try an online version * here

*CAUTION!!! The lucid dreamachine has a strobing effect that MAY cause epileptic seizures in certain persons. If you try the online version or decide to build one yourself, you do so at your own risk! So, if you have had seizures in the past, just play it safe and don't try it.

Step 1 Gather Materials

There is a LOT more than needed for this project than I first expected. Some items can be replaced or substituted for others, but here is a rough list.

Materials:
1 Old turn table capable of 12" records and 78 RPM
1 12" concrete forming tube (Home Depot)
1 18-24" Fluorescent tube (I use 21" ultra thin)
1 Unused 12" record
Sturdy cardboard (for a template)
Scrap Wood

Tools:
Utility knife
Flexible ruler
Hammer
Drill & drill bits
2" Finishing nails
Screws
Spray paint

Comments

[goldenshuttle]

did anyone come across a computer software that can do the same on LCD screen ?

[jeharrell1]

HELP PLEASE: In your instructions, you say use used a 13 hz fluorescent light bulb, but I haven't been able to find one with that low of light frequency.

[sanosuke1589]

I'm using a T4 16W light, which is marketed as an under cabinet light.
I chose this light, mainly, for it's length. It is long enough and bright enough to light up the entire inside of the tube.
In reality, any light will work, so long as it is bright.

[Blofish]

Outstanding! very nice job and detailed nicely. It gave me an idea too. thanks for this. I like your resourcefulness too. Im impressed

[Blofish]

Also reminds me of a light I use to have on listening to

In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida

by Iron Butterfly...

OH WOW... This is so cool man...

[sanosuke1589]

Thank You!
Iron Butterfly would be perfect. haha

[fade400]

this is cool .. but in my opinion it would make more sense to have this thing on a timer or something so that it spins when you are most likely to be your long periods of rem sleep like in the morning while it is still dark out. and have it shut off after a couple minutes. but def a great little light ^_

[sanosuke1589]

Actually, this is supposed to be used intermittently once or twice during the day as a meditation helper. They train your brain so, when you are dreaming, you have lucid dreams. It is not meant to be used while you are sleeping; just for about 20 min. while listening to relaxing music.

[elmejor06]

you could just plug it into one of those timer sockets....