ATmega16 Based Linear 3D cube

A 2D LED matrix is being used by the project to create a 3D cube effect with the aid of a simple shaker.

The dot matrix circuit board is located on a shaker which is used to vibrate a circuit board in order to bring out any intermittent connections. The circuit with LEDs controlled by AVR is fixed on slotted steel wherein one end is also fixed to the table. The speed of the vibration is controlled by a VARIAC. Vibrations of 10Hz are created as the motor rotates a weight on its shaft.

The illusion of 3D waves on the LED matrix is created by the vibration as the 8×8 LED dot matrix display was multiplexed. The show is being synchronized by the photo sensor that detects the vibrating top point. To generate binary arrays of images that are stored in MCU memory, a simple Visual Basic application was written.

A perfboard with plated through holes was used to assemble the circuit. To keep the vibrations from breaking the wires, the 24 gauge mod solid wire was glued down in places. The controller was designed using an Atmel ATmega16 microcontroller from Atmel.

Click here to see the rest of the project.