Blog

Grant Project Reflection: Infinity Portal

By Jaylen Coleman // June 4, 2024

The blog post below was written by Jaylen Coleman, Pratt '24.  In the academic year 2023-2024, he was provided a Co-Lab grant to work on this project.

 

Creating the Infinity Portal LED display was a multifaceted project that involved various activities at the Duke Co-Lab. Here's a step-by-step story of how each part of the process unfolded:

Design

The journey began in the digital realm with Adobe Illustrator. I meticulously crafted a design for the display, ensuring every detail was perfect. The design featured a central hexagon motif, symbolizing the essence of design in the Co-Lab.

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infinity portal isometric view and design

Laser Cutting Acrylic

With the design in hand, I headed to the laser cutter. The first task was to cut the hexagon shape from two acrylic sheets: a clear one for the front and a black one for the back. Precision was key, and the laser cutter effortlessly handled the job, producing sharp, clean edges.

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view of the hexagon in the laser cutter

Vinyl Application and Etching

Next, I layered a sheet of black vinyl over the clear acrylic. Returning to the laser cutter, I etched the design into the vinyl-covered acrylic. This step added intricate details and transformed the plain surface into an eye-catching element. Hidden within the design, I included an easter egg: "INFINITY PORTAL" spelled out in binary code.

3D Printing Clips

To hold the display together, I designed and 3D printed clips for the corners. These clips were essential for securing the acrylic layers. After printing, I spray-painted the clips to give them a sleek metallic finish, adding a professional touch. To personalize the project, I added my logo onto the clips.

Electrical Work and Soldering

Now came the technical part. I positioned six triangle-shaped LEDs between the clear and black acrylic sheets. These LEDs would illuminate the design, bringing it to life. I carefully fixed each of  the electrical connections, ensuring everything was secure and functional.

Final Assembly and Base

With the LEDs in place and the clips ready, I assembled the display. The clips held the acrylic sheets together perfectly, creating a sturdy structure. Using some leftover black acrylic, I laser-cut the word "Co-Lab" and adhered it to the middle of the vinyl wrap, adding a final touch of customization. Finally, I 3D printed a base to support the display, completing the project.

 

Reflection

Throughout this process, I enjoyed every moment at the Duke Co-Lab. It was a fulfilling experience to create something special for the University, a place where I frequently work on school projects and continue developing my startup, Infinity Portal. The Co-Lab provided all the tools and resources I needed, making it an invaluable part of my creative journey.