gail alderson

By a thread

Exploring optical fiber's potential to blend and diffuse light from two directions: 2,860 feet of fiber (yes, really), one mirror, and a lot of UV resin.

Context

Optical fibers transmit light through thin glass or plastic strands using total internal reflection, enabling high-speed data transfer and dynamic lighting. Beyond telecom and medical uses, it has become a powerful artistic medium, shaping light in space. This project explores optical fiber's potential to blend and diffuse light from two directions.

Demonstrating end glow of multiple thin fibers.
fig. 1demonstrating end glow of multiple thin fibers
Stock image demonstrating light transmission in a thick fiber.
fig. 2demonstrating light transmission in a thick fiber

Approach

materials

  • 2,860ft (yes, really) optical fiber, .03" diameter, PMMA end glow
  • WS2812B LEDs (5V)
  • Meanwell LRS-100-5 power supply (5V)
  • Black PLA filament
  • Loctite super glue
  • UV resin
  • 14 AWG power cord (rated for 15A+)
  • XIAO ESP32C3
  • Basic electrical components (resistors, wire, in-line switch, push button, perfboard)
  • Soldering materials
  • IKEA NISSEDAL mirror
A picture of me brainstorming and sketching out ideas.
fig. 3sketching
3D-printed part diagrams.
fig. 43d printed part diagrams

Making

  1. Sketch out concept: what should it look like? what fabrication steps need to be taken?
  2. 3D model LED holders: start by measuring LED strip size, then model on Fusion 360
  3. 3D print LED holders: print off, check fit, adjust model, rinse, repeat
  4. Create circuit diagram: list out hardware components, verify hardware is supported by libraries (ex. FastLED)
  5. Solder everything together: burn yourself, inhale lead, desire to have an actual studio space with real ventilation
  6. Secure lights in holders: these models are technically snapfit, but you can make them permanent with superglue
  7. Secure lights to mirror: superglue your printed parts (with LED strips inside) to edges of mirror
  8. Create fiber bundles: sand, cut, and group optical fiber bundles into 88 bundles consisting of 15 strands, each 26" long
  9. Bond fiber bundles: use UV resin to secure fiber bundles to the LEDs housed in the printed parts
  10. Program modes: the fun part!
Circuit diagrams.
fig. 5circuit diagrams
My soldering setup in my living room.
fig. 6soldering setup in my living room
Fiber bundles bonded into a printed LED holder.
fig. 7fiber bundles bonded into a printed LED holder

Outcome