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This instructable shows you how to make a solar powered rainbow disco ball! A tiny solar panel powers a motor that turns a few cut glass crystals in the sun. These project moving rainbows around your room!
We use what is called a solar engine to make this work. A solar engine is like a bucket that slowly collects the photons from the sun until the bucket is full. Then we empty the bucket all at once into the motor which turns a tiny bit. Even then, the motor isn't powered enough to move the crystals much, so we also need a gearbox.
If you want to know more about how solar engines work, read up on the BEAM website.
This instructable makes use of a PCB to make the construction easier, sturdier and better looking.
You can buy a PCB from me at cost price (£1.50)
You can also use a veroboard, or you can solder it all together with no board. In which case, have a look at the attached circuit diagram.
You'll need some basic soldering skills to complete this project, so if you're unsure then check this instructable.
We use what is called a solar engine to make this work. A solar engine is like a bucket that slowly collects the photons from the sun until the bucket is full. Then we empty the bucket all at once into the motor which turns a tiny bit. Even then, the motor isn't powered enough to move the crystals much, so we also need a gearbox.
If you want to know more about how solar engines work, read up on the BEAM website.
This instructable makes use of a PCB to make the construction easier, sturdier and better looking.
You can buy a PCB from me at cost price (£1.50)
You can also use a veroboard, or you can solder it all together with no board. In which case, have a look at the attached circuit diagram.
You'll need some basic soldering skills to complete this project, so if you're unsure then check this instructable.
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Signing UpStep 1Components and tools
* C1: 2000uF or greater capacitor (this is the bucket that collects the electrons),
* motor and gearbox (this is what we power with our bucket of electrons),
* motor and gearbox (this is what we power with our bucket of electrons),
* T2: 2n3906 PNP transistor (this is part of the switch that empties the bucket),
* T1: 2n3904 NPN transistor (this is another part of the switch),
* R1: 2k resistor (this is another part of the switch),
* D1 and D2: 1n4001 diodes (this is the bit that detects when the bucket is full enough),
* veroboard, a PCB, or just solder it all together in situ.
* veroboard, a PCB, or just solder it all together in situ.
* cut lead glass crystal(s) at least 20mm wide for big rainbows!
* window sucker,
* thin cable tie to attach the motor,
* connector block to attach the crystals to the gearbox shaft.
* some thread, or fishing line to attach the crystal(s).
Tools:
* thin cable tie to attach the motor,
* connector block to attach the crystals to the gearbox shaft.
* some thread, or fishing line to attach the crystal(s).
Tools:
* glue,
* soldering iron, solder,
* wire cutters,
* small flat head screwdriver,
* maybe a sharp knife,
* maybe a file.
The total cost of components comes to £9.51 if buying in quantity. If you want a complete kit, please email me.* soldering iron, solder,
* wire cutters,
* small flat head screwdriver,
* maybe a sharp knife,
* maybe a file.
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Any chance you'll publish the board files?