Check out this cool homemade photo frame from maker David Bue Pedersen of Volunteer Lab Rat. It lights up various photos in the frame when your friends come online.
“Don’t want to get off the couch to see who’s online on Skype or MSN? Me neither! That’s why I’ve built myself a LED illuminated picture frame that indicates who’s online on my instant messenger. I decided to make a picture frame to support five small passport-sized portraits. I made a base in hardwood with two long grooves in which some sheets of polycarbonate could be inserted. I used a metalworking mill to cut the grooves, but a hand-held wood router should make just as fine cuts.”
Design and Construction
David’s innovative photo frame is not just a simple display; it integrates technology and craftsmanship to create a functional piece of art. The frame’s base is crafted from hardwood, providing a sturdy and aesthetically pleasing foundation. The two long grooves in the base are precisely cut to hold sheets of polycarbonate, which serve as the backdrop for the photos. Polycarbonate is an excellent choice for this project because it is durable, lightweight, and has good light-diffusing properties, which are essential for the LED illumination.
To achieve the LED illumination, David used a series of LEDs strategically placed behind each photo. These LEDs are connected to a microcontroller that interfaces with the instant messaging software. When a friend comes online, the corresponding LED lights up, illuminating the photo associated with that friend. This clever use of technology not only makes the photo frame interactive but also adds a dynamic element to the display.
Technical Details and Implementation
The technical implementation of this project involves both hardware and software components. On the hardware side, David used a microcontroller, such as an Arduino, to control the LEDs. The microcontroller is programmed to communicate with the instant messaging software via a computer or a networked device. This communication is typically achieved using APIs provided by the instant messaging services, such as Skype or MSN.
The software component involves writing a script or program that runs on the computer and monitors the online status of friends. When a change in status is detected, the program sends a signal to the microcontroller, which then activates the appropriate LED. This seamless integration of hardware and software is what makes the photo frame both functional and innovative.
For those interested in replicating this project, there are several resources available online that provide detailed instructions and code examples. Websites like Instructables and GitHub are excellent places to start. Additionally, there are numerous forums and communities where makers can share their experiences and offer advice.
“I wanted to create something that was not only functional but also visually appealing. The combination of hardwood and polycarbonate, along with the LED illumination, gives the photo frame a modern yet timeless look. It’s a great conversation piece and a fun way to stay connected with friends.”
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