Illumination in the base of a crystal structure model

Illumination in the base of a crystal structure model

Base lighting and Illumination

in our molecular and crystal structure models

 

A minor but really attractive enhancement to any model is the incorporation of illumination into the base. Obviously, a pre-requisite is that you will want a base for your molecular model or crystal structure model, but the incorporation of lighting in the base works best with models that are made using transparent coloured balls that reflect and refract the light to amazing effect.

Molecular model with lighting on a slate base

The lighting system can be powered either by replaceable single-use/rechargeable AAA batteries, fixed rechargeable Lithium ion batteries with a recharging socket in the base, or they can be powered with an external power source.The wiring is contained in the base in all cases, with elegant metal LED holders that hold the LEDs in place and direct the lighting while ensuring that the result is of the highest quality.

Detail of molecular model with lighting in the base showing the LED mounts     Detail of molecular model with lighting in the base, with the LED lights turned on

The cheapest lighting option involves the use of an external source - this could be a battery pack or a connection to a mains transformer. This is relatively simple to install, but also makes this the least flexible position for the model, as it has to be close to its power source. It also means that the base is tied to another object. For a permanent feature, this may not be a problem, as the wiring may be hidden during installation, but other applications may require an integral power supply.

The cheapest way to incorporate a power supply into the base is to use a set of AAA battery holders. While this allows the model to be much more portable, the power supply is limited and, particularly with large models, it can be slightly difficult to exchange or remove, recharge and replace the batteries. Because the power supply is limited, so is the lighting time. For a typical small installation wih four LED lights and three AAA batteries, this can be as little as ten hours, depending on the characteristics of the LEDs and the type of battery.

Finally, whilst a slightly more expensive option, the inclusion of a lithium-ion battery and charge control circuit in the base allows the battery to be recharged via a USB cable. This requires some more complex circuitry to control the charging, and more involved milling in the base, but this approach certainly gives the best results. Because milling stone, particularly granite, requires specialist work, this can be an expensive feature to add into stone bases, but the results can be sensational.

 

 

 

 

 

Illuminated model of an atom

Illuminated model of an atom