How to Make an Image Projector
The simplest type of image projector is the overhead projector. Overhead projectors work by shining a bright light through a semi-transparent image and then using a mirror to reflect that image onto a screen. You can project slides onto a screen or write on transparency paper to draw graphs for your presentation.
Things You'll Need
- Broken printer
- Fan
- Light
- Fresnel lens
- Mirror
- Planks
- Drill
- Saw
- Knife
- Duct tape
- Glue
Instructions
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1
Carefully pry the piece of glass from an old printer. Remove all the inner electronics and mechanisms from the inside of the box. Keep the glass and chuck everything else.
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2
Attach a fresnel lens to the underside of the glass. Either tape or glue it to the glass at the corners. It should be slightly smaller than the piece of glass.
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3
Mount a high-intensity lamp inside the printer. Attach it with duct tape or glue so the bulb is not directly resting on any surface and the cord exits through the hole used for the printer's power cable.
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4
Cut a hole big enough to stick a small fan inside the printer. Attach a small electric fan to the side with duct tape so that it blows directly on the bulb. Make a small hole in the other side for the air to blow out of.
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5
Attach a mirror to the underside of the printer cover. Tilt it up until it is at a 45-degree angle.
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6
Attach pieces of wood between the corners of the printer cover and the sides of the projector box. Tape the cover open at 45 degrees.
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Tips & Warnings
If you can, use an LED lamp. It will use less energy and produce little heat, eliminating the need for a fan.
