Pixel Art Animation Display

What is it?

The Pixel Art Animation Display is a modular, 3D-printed matrix designed to house LED strips, perfect for creating customizable pixel art animations. The matrix consists of 8x8 grids that can be combined to build screens of any size. Whether you want to display retro game characters, create ambient lighting, or showcase animated pixel art, this display can be used on its own or mounted in a frame, as shown in the presentation video.

What is it made of?

The display features several key features:

1. Modular 8x8 LED Matrix:

   • Each module is made up of 64 individual compartments (8 rows by 8 columns), with holes for each LED. These modules are designed to connect seamlessly, allowing you to expand the display to any size.

   • Each compartment has tall divider walls that prevent light from one LED from spilling into the next, ensuring clean, distinct pixels. The wall height is ideal for adding a translucent cover, creating a smooth, uniform glow for each pixel.

2. Customizable Size:

   • You can build a display as large as you like by simply connecting multiple 8x8 modules. This flexibility is perfect for small decorative displays or large pixel art animations.

3. Translucent Cover Compatibility:

   • The matrix is designed to work with a translucent acrylic or glass cover that evenly diffuses the light. This ensures that each compartment is brightly and evenly lit, with no color blending between pixels.
4. Mounting Options:
   • The matrix can be used as it is, but for a more polished look, it can also be mounted in a frame, as shown in the video. The frame helps stabilize the matrix and provides a clean, finished appearance.

What can it be used for?

The Pixel Art Animation Display is perfect for showcasing animated pixel art, retro game characters, and other dynamic visuals. It can also serve as a creative and customizable light source for any room. Some potential uses include:

• Pixel Art Displays: Display your favorite characters or animations in pixel art style.
• Interactive Wall Art: Create a custom digital art piece for your room with animated patterns or retro-style visuals.
• Decorative Lighting: The display can also be used to add unique, colorful lighting to your space.

How is it built?

Constructing the Pixel Art Animation Display is simple:

1. Print the Matrix Modules:

   • Print the 8x8 grid modules, ensuring each one has holes for LEDs. You can print as many modules as needed to reach your desired screen size.

2. Insert the LED Strips:

   • Insert LED strips (cut into 8-LED segments) into each compartment of the matrix. These strips will be powered by an Arduino, which has pre-loaded animation models for easy programming.

3. Connect the Modules:

   • Connect the individual matrix modules to form a larger display. This modular design allows for easy expansion and configuration.

4. Add the Wiring:

   • The LEDs are controlled by an Arduino, which stores the animation models and powers the LED strips. The wiring schematic can be found in the provided images.
5. Translucent Cover and Frame (Optional):
   • For an enhanced look, add a translucent acrylic cover over the matrix to diffuse the light. You can also mount the entire display in a custom frame for stability and aesthetic appeal.