Lu's 3D Studio: Making 3D Printed LED Signs

Introduction

• Tutorial on creating personalized LED signs.
• End product: LED signs with custom text and icons.

Tools and Resources

• Software: Autodesk Fusion 360 (free version available).
• Fonts: Use Google Fonts for free font selection.
  • Recommended fonts: Poppins Black, Balo Black.
• Icons: Use online tools to convert images to SVG format.

Designing the Sign

Step 1: Setting Up in Fusion 360

• Open Fusion 360 and create a new sketch.
• Choose a plane to sketch on (e.g., XZ plane).
• Use a rectangle to define the sign's size (e.g., 300mm x 20mm).

Step 2: Adding Text

• Use the text tool to add desired text.
• Install and select the chosen font.
• Modify text size and font style as needed.
• Convert text to outlines using "Explode Text."

Step 3: Adding Icons

• Find and convert an icon (e.g., thumbs up) to SVG.
• Insert SVG into the sketch and adjust position.

Step 4: Editing Text and Icon

• Change outline colors from green to blue for editing.
• Move, alter shapes, or rotate text and icons as needed.

Creating the 3D Model

Step 5: Offset and Extrude

• Offset Plane: Create a new plane for text offset (e.g., 100mm away).
• Extrude:
  • First, create a base thickness (e.g., 1mm).
  • Then, extrude outer borders (e.g., 30mm).
  • Create narrow inside edges by further extrusion (e.g., 20mm).

Step 6: Designing the Base

• Add holes for LED strip connections between letters.
• Design a back hole for the LED strip entrance.

Step 7: Creating Diffusers (Caps)

• Design caps that fit over the sign characters.
• Ensure slight wiggle room (0.1mm thinner than holes).
• Extrude caps to complete the diffuser design.

Finalizing Design

Step 8: Exporting Files

• Export each part as STL files for 3D printing.

Printing the Sign

Step 9: Slicing and Printing

• Use a slicer software (e.g., Bamboo Studio Slicer) to prepare STL files.
• Consider using support for complex parts.
• Choose suitable filament colors (e.g., darker colors for the base).

Step 10: Assembly

• Install LED Strip:
  • Use a self-adhesive LED strip.
  • Aim for 30 LEDs per meter for brightness.
• Attach Parts:
  • Use super glue for assembly.
  • Insert caps (diffusers) in place.
• Power and Test:
  • Connect LED, ideally with RGB capability for color options.

Conclusion

• Customize further with RGB LEDs for color-changing effects.
• Use the same method to create various LED signs.
• Encouragement to subscribe to the channel for more tutorials.