I'm getting ready to build a detailed model of the Fanhome Enterprise D and want to make it really special. I've got plans for everything from 3D printed parts to stripping the original paint off the blacked-out windows, but I'm hoping to achieve more. I want to individually light each window so that it can mimic the effect of rooms having their lights turned on or off, possibly using something like a Raspberry Pi for control. Even better, I'd love these lights to be RGB, enabling me to create special alerts like Red Alert or Yellow Alert. I'm not sure what the best approach would be, especially since the RGB LEDs I've seen seem too big for the scale I'm working with. What methods have worked for others in similar situations?
4 Answers
Have you looked into using LEDs with on-chip serial data? They only need four wires, which could significantly cut down on the wiring mess. That way, you can control many LEDs with just one driver channel. Something like the WS2812 could work well for you!
When I've tackled projects with numerous individually lit LEDs, I often use a TM1640 chip. It makes wiring easier, letting you control up to 128 LEDs with just 8 common pins. It could help tidy up your setup while using a Pi Pico for control. Just remember to follow the capacitor guidelines from the datasheet!
0402s don’t come in RGBW models though, right? I really think going with the fiber optics is the way to go here for your needs.
Using fiber optic cables could be your best bet! They can act as light pipes and would allow you to keep the LEDs away from the windows while still getting the light through. It could also give you more flexibility in placement since you can manipulate the fibers to fit tighter spots.
You might want to check out these pre-wired SMD LEDs. They're super tiny, about 1mm by 0.5mm, which would let you create an RGB setup in those tight spaces. If you can place three in a way that they all light up the same room, you could easily create a white light effect too!
Those are really small! I like the idea of 3D printing holders for the LEDs to secure them behind the windows. Plus, sanding the backs of the windows could help with the light diffusion.
That sounds great, but considering the tiny scale of the model, positioning could become an issue. I might end up using fiber optics instead!