This article was found on one of the popular blogs, and in order not to violate the integrity, the author's text is further saved: wandering through the expanses of Youtube, I came across a bewitching video demonstrating the operation of this simple device. The first impression of viewing was so strong that the hands themselves began to drive into Google a search for online stores where you could find out the price and purchase it. The price was not to say that it was biting, but there was no interest in buying a ready-made device. After thinking about the device for 15 minutes, it was decided to assemble it with my own hands ...
Search for materials
Ideally, we need a mirror that is mirrored on one side and transparent on the other. Or translucent, because. turning off the device, we have the opportunity to use it as a normal mirror.
Looking ahead, I will say that I opted for mirror film from hoz.mag.
So we have:
Ordinary mirror
- Mirror film
- Expanded polystyrene for the body
- Sheet of glass (window)
- Two sheets of sandpaper
- Spatula and putty
- Knife for cutting polystyrene
- Chinese blue garland for 100 LEDs
- Jigsaw
- glass cutter
- suction cup
Assembly
Cut out a circle from glass. This is done as follows:
We pass with a glass cutter in a circle, and then from the circle, radially, we cut cuts from the circle to the edges. Then we tap all the lines from below with a glass cutter, until light cracks appear under the lines. Then we put a towel under the circle and break off the excess with our hands. However, the first time in one place it turned out crooked, I had to redo it. The glass diameter has been reduced from 40 to 35 cm.
It turns out something like this:
Cut out the blank for the mirror. Important: cut only from the side of the glass, by no means along the silver plating.
So, now we cut out the body. We take polystyrene, I cut out a square from it and outlined the future ring on it.
Then, using a jigsaw and a knife, cut out the ring, and mark the first holes for the diodes with a marker. By the way, the ring (its inner part) is made 1 cm smaller than the mirror, so that the allowance is everywhere 5 mm along the edges. There will be something to glue on in the future.
We make holes for the diodes (I melted with a soldering iron).
We make another ring, put a film on the glass
Theoretically, it is not difficult to explain such an optical effect. You can create an illusory endless tunnel even with the help of an ordinary candle: this magic was used by many girls of almost all generations, conducting fortune-telling rituals. Due to the multiple reflections of the light source from the real and imaginary surfaces of the mirror, it seemed as if the candle fell into a tunnel without end and edge. All this can be easily explained in terms of quantum physics.
Infinity mirrors are a wonderful piece of decor that can become the main accent in the interior. Most often they are used in the design of commercial premises: nightclubs and bars, cafes, showrooms, offices. However, you can decorate an apartment with such an art object. It will look appropriate in a bathroom or hallway, made in Gothic or industrial style, with elements of minimalism, pop art or techno.
A mirror with infinite depth can be used not only for its intended purpose, as wall construction with lighting, but also as an element of other furniture. It will become an original countertop for coffee table, the edge of a cubic design, floor decoration and more. It could be complete ceiling chandelier or an additional light source.
How to DIY
You can order an LED art object far from everywhere, but this is not necessary, because making a mirror with an infinity effect with your own hands is not so difficult. All that is needed is to purchase materials, build a frame and assemble the structure according to already ready-made instructions and diagrams. At the final stage, glued LED Strip Light– and the eye-catching installation is ready.
Necessary materials and tools
To create the effect of an infinite mirror, you need to prepare materials and tools, namely:
- Two types of mirrors. The first is the usual one, with one-sided reflection. The second is glass with partial mirror effect(plexiglass works too). They must be the same size.
- Light source. The most economical in terms of energy consumption are LEDs, so it is advisable to stock up on self-adhesive tape.
- Demountable frame frame for a mirror structure, holding the mirrors at a distance of about 2 cm from each other. If nothing suitable was found, you need to prepare several wooden bars and silicone sealant to glue them.
- Sunscreen mirror window film. It will create the desired effect of glass tinting.
- Tools: scissors, cutter, glue gun, perforator or drill.
To make a mirror surface with a partial reflective effect, most likely, you will have to do it yourself. To do this, you need to paste over ordinary glass with a sun-protective reflective window film, having previously cleaned and degreased it. It will be necessary to cut off such a piece of material so that it is slightly larger in area than the glass surface (goes beyond its limits on all sides).
To apply a film on glass, you should start from one corner, gradually lubricating the surface liquid soap. It must be constantly ironed to avoid the formation of air bubbles.
There are a number of specific requirements for the light source. First, it must not generate heat. Secondly, be bright enough and not get lost behind a mirror film. The ideal option becomes an RGB LED strip. The working rating of its voltage should be equal to 24 volts. This is the most optimal solution.
Mirror
Tools
Light source
bar
Frame manufacturing
Any can be a frame. wooden frame of the appropriate size with a depth of at least 1.3-1.5 cm. The design can be done with your own hands. To do this, you need 4 bars of wood 2 cm wide. Next, you need to follow a simple instruction:
- The bars are glued directly to the mirror using pre-prepared silicone sealant.
- The made rack frame also needs to be prepared for the output of the wires supplying the light source. To do this, drill small holes in it with a drill.
- The slats are glued in stages, one after the other, and aligned along the edges of the mirror surface.
If the finished frame is taken as the basis, then tinted glass and an additional smaller inner frame are inserted into it, which will serve as a stop for the inserted mirror. Recesses are made in it for the wire for the LEDs using a cutter (on the back).
Pick the right frame
Prepare glass
Make a hole for the wire
Assembly
To assemble a structure with infinite mirrors, everything should be ready. Remains only:
- Glue the frame rails to the mirror on its reflective side.
- Fasten the RGB LED strip from the inside. To do this, the power cord simply needs to be pulled through the pre-drilled holes.
- Trim the mirror film to the width of the frame.
- Apply adhesive or the same silicone sealant along the edge frame structure and put glass on top with a mirror film (reflective surface inside).
After that, you need to decide how to make the ends invisible. They can simply be painted over or covered with a U-shaped profile, which can be fixed with a sealant. Alternatively, a plastic cable duct (without cover) can be used.
cut film
Apply film to glass
Insert glass into frame
Fix the inner frame
Fix the LEDs
Insert mirror
Connecting the LED strip
The traditional lamp with the effect of an infinite mirror provides for the location of the LED strip around the perimeter of the frame, but it can be beaten in a slightly different way. With the help of LEDs, you can not only depict some geometric figures but whole words. To do this, an additional structure of rails is glued to the mirror along with the frame.
If self-adhesive tape was purchased, then fixing it is not difficult. If it does not stick, then it is fixed along the inner perimeter of the frame using the usual adhesive composition. When it comes to connecting LEDs, there are always two options. If color effects are needed, light bulbs are connected through controllers. If you connect the RGB lamp directly to the power supply, it will shine in white.
Connect to power supply
Video
I will make Infinity mirror made to measure. From order to finished product 14 - 21 days. Delivery in all regions of Russia by the best transport companies with 100% insurance.
Advantages of Ordering an Infinity Mirror from Sofia-Led
First and foremost, I work alone.
From all this it follows that the cost of an infinite mirror will be much lower than competitors. I have my own workshop, my own tools and no other "unnecessary" employees. All the way of the infinite mirror from the layout to the finished product is done by me.
I have been making infinity mirrors for over 5 years. During this time, I learned how to collect high-quality and inexpensive options different sizes with a wide variety of lighting patterns. I have long erased the boundaries for the manufacture of mirrors, they do not heat up, they shine brightly and for a long time. Here are my benefits:
Mirror frame options
In the bulk, I make three options for frames for the infinity mirror. Their use is determined by the location of the product. For the living room and living room, wood is the most practical; for the bathroom, airtight aluminum or plastic is suitable.
When installing the power supply inside the frame, I use only aluminum or plastic. Wood prevents proper ventilation of the heating PSU.
Another important difference between my mirrors is that I strictly measure the inner perimeter of the frame so that the LED strip lies strictly in the places of the cut. Thus, I achieve an ideal light contour without gaps and overlays.
What is an "infinite mirror"
In fact, it is a composite object consisting of at least three layers:
The light emitted from the source is reflected in the mirror and translucent glass, forming a tunnel of reflections, tending to the depth and to the center. Under ideal conditions, almost infinite convergence of reflections can be achieved using two conventional amalgam mirrors. But this option is unrealistic - a person cannot see through reverse side ordinary mirror. Therefore, on the side that will be directed towards the person, a translucent mirror is used. Already on the basis of its name, it is clear that it will be on it that the main reflection losses will be, therefore, each reflection from it will be weaker by a percentage of the throughput of such glass. There are several options for making such mirrors, and I initially use the best ones.
At correct location all three layers achieve the effect of infinity, or "tunnel of infinity", as many used to call it. Of course, it is not infinite, but it can be brought closer to such.
Often, in the manufacture, many neglect the rules and laws of optics, which greatly limit the operation of the mirror and its effect. I calculate the layers of the finished product with millimeter accuracy. tunnel mirror thus achieving great success.
By the way, the most common option is a mirror with an infinity effect on the wall. I recommend ordering this for your specific size. Why hang a piece of furniture standard size and watch around the empty field of wallpaper, when you can use the empty space for good!
Infinity Tunnel Illumination Options
I use several options for light sources. In 100% of cases they are LED:
I discuss each order with the client, carefully listen to his wishes and the operating conditions of the item with the effect of infinity. Based on his requirements and my experience, I find the most correct way to make an infinite mirror.
"Sofia-Led" offers to order a mirror with the effect of infinity of any parameters. For the manufacture of each light tunnel, high-quality, durable materials are used, which are distinguished by a high degree of strength.
Remember! The more complex the project, the more interesting it is for me! Do not forget also that you can buy an endless mirror as a gift to your friends. They will definitely thank you!
Information for managers and various organizations conducting repairs or restoration work at the facilities for which my products are planned to be ordered. Follow the link and read the requirements.
Infinity ceiling mirror
IN Lately orders for the manufacture and installation of an endless mirror in the ceiling, including in the tension one, became popular. Having developed my own concept, which is fundamentally different from the usual one, I now proudly declare that I will make for you an endless mirror that can be built into the ceiling of any complexity. This type of placement is not dangerous for residents, since I calculate all the loads and make a 50% margin of safety.
In view of the fact that they usually want to install a large infinite mirror in the ceiling, the weight general design which can exceed 200 kg and above, I do not recommend using a solid mirror. In this case, I recommend using several elements, the dimensions of which are approximately equal to 1 sq.m.
An infinity mirror can transform the most ordinary interior into a modern one. It harmonizes perfectly with futuristic trends and loft style, so it is relevant for use in the living room or bathroom, as well as for decorating various entertainment venues.
The tunnel effect is created with LED backlight, as well as the presence of two mirror surfaces parallel to each other. Light is reflected between them, which allows you to achieve a unique feeling of infinity.
The cost of manufacturing mirrors with a tunnel effect
| Size (mm) | 600 x 800 | 700 x 700 | 800 x 800 | 900 x 900 | 900 x 1000 | your size |
| price, rub. | 16 800 rub. | RUB 17,150 | 22 400 rub. | RUB 28,350 | 31 500 rub. | negotiable |
On our website you can always order a mirror according to an individual sketch.
Order a tunnel effect mirror
How is the effect created?
The mirrors used in the manufacture have different reflection coefficients - from 50 to 100%. The lights of the LEDs located around the perimeter are reflected in them, but the brightness of the subsequent image is reduced by 2 times. That is why you see a lot of flashes, which then go into absolute darkness. Depending on the wishes of the customer, the backlight can be monophonic or multi-color.
The Mir Stekla company offers you to buy a tunnel mirror at a very favorable price. We offer you the following:
- We ourselves are a manufacturer of products, so we control the quality of products at all stages of its production.
- Delivery in Moscow and outside the Moscow Ring Road.
- Departure of the measurer at the address.
- Installation of structures at home.
- Individual production of products according to the sizes and wishes.
The illuminated tunnel mirror is equipped with a remote control with which you can adjust the brightness of the LED lights. They can be completely disabled, after which the design will perform the usual functions of a mirror.
Before making a mirror, we send a visualization of the product on an individual order (example):
By making a purchase with us, you can order individual production products of various sizes, designs and shapes. This is a great way to transform the room, as well as a lot of space for design solutions. It is possible to make a mirror with a tunnel effect by placing one shape within another, achieving an increase in optical illusion. In this case, everything is limited only by your imagination, and the implementation of the idea is our direct responsibility.
The effect of endless reflections is achieved by using a mirror, mirrored translucent glass and a light source between them. Most often, such lamps are used for decorative purposes, they increase the volume very well.
I designed a chandelier with a similar effect, but with the function of the main light in the room. I ordered glass and a mirror at the Glass Cutter store. A translucent mirror made from an ordinary stele and a mirror car film
materials
- Mirror 500×500 and glass 500×500 with the necessary holes (ordered at the Stelorez store) ~ 950 rubles
- Mirror film (purchased at the car market) 1 × 3m ~ 150 rubles
- Aluminum corner 40mm 4m ~ 350 rubles
- 40 pcs ~ 600 rubles
- Power supply 12V 10A with voltage regulation ~ 450 rubles
- Studs, nuts and other materials ~ 200 rubles
Characteristics
- Dimensions: 500 x 500 x 90
- Number of LEDs 32 x warm white 3W, 8 x cool white 3W
- Power consumption 14V * 600mA *10 = 84W
- Number of sections - 3 (16, 16 and 8 diodes)
- Control: three channels RF315MHz, smooth start, dimming is possible (did not implement it), control of LED overheating
Manufacturing
The frame is made from aluminum corner and fasten with riveting
We connect all LEDs in groups of 4 in series. We put a 1 Ohm 4W resistor on each group, then we adjust the voltage to the power supplies so that the current in each group of diodes is ~ 600 mA. For what?
Firstly, I had such a power supply (I bought a $ 15 coupon on ebay)
Secondly, this solution allows you to control the brightness / power of the LEDs using PWM
The disadvantage is about 5 watts of extra power, which is dissipated by resistors.
We assemble the second (upper) frame.
Attach LEDs to it.
We assemble the whole sandwich: bottom glass, bottom frame, mirror, top frame using 5mm studs and nuts.
We push all the wires into the holes in the mirror up
We mount all the electrics and the control controller.
We hang on the ceiling, connect
We fix the wires with construction tape so that they do not an eyesore from below
Result
Lots of light in the room. Only under the chandelier itself is dark due to the low light transmission of the tint film
The effect of infinity has been achieved. Guests look from the bottom up for a long time entering a trance 🙂
Testing
The thermal imager showed a fairly uniform heating of the LEDs with a maximum crystal heating of 58C
The glass is heated up to 35C, it should not crack.
The cat is perplexed how much time for a good sleep wasted 😉
