LEGO Reading Light Utilizing Simple Machines

This is a LEGO reading light, that I designed after playing around with levers for a bit. The main motion uses levers and some gearing to sync the two sides. This was designed to fit on my bed's rail, but you can build an adaptor to fit on another place/surface.

Supplies

All LEGO in photos above.

Step 1: Build the Battery Assembly and the Side Mount Assemblies

The battery assembly is easy, just put the pins in the right holes, the other assemblies lock the mechanism to the bar.

Here, the battery box acts as a counterweight to the rest of the light arm.

Step 2: Beams, Half-beams and Pins Oh My!

Just assemble the two colors of beam according to the pictures, you will need to make sure all alignments are correct.

These beams are the levers that extend up and to the side

Step 3: Let There Be Light! (or the Light Head)

This is the technic assembly that holds the Power Functions lights.

This stays level because of the lever system that is made.

Step 4: We Need an Attachment of Some Kind...

This is where the red beams contact the frame and clamp.

You need to have a lot of support.

Step 5: Get Geared Up!

here you are attaching the two sets of beams together in the hinge that does it all

This hinge uses gears to maintain alignment.

Step 6: Wire Everything Up

Connect the battery box to arm and add the light. Route the cable as described for optimum motion.

We are adding the counterweight and wiring up the light

Step 7: Attach and Enjoy!

This is how you would attach it to a square beam or pipe 2.5 studs by 2.5 studs. I hope you enjoyed this simple build and any questions I can answer in the chat!

Entered in the simple machines challenge.