LithoPhanes

A 3D printed lithophane is a modern adaptation of a traditional art form that creates a detailed image by varying the thickness of a translucent material.

Here's how it works:

• Varying Thickness: The core principle of a lithophane is that light passes through thinner areas more easily and is blocked by thicker areas.

• Image to 3D Model: A digital image (typically a grayscale or black and white photo) is converted into a 3D model. In this conversion, the lighter parts of the image correspond to thinner sections of the 3D model, while darker parts correspond to thicker sections.

• 3D Printing: This 3D model is then printed using a 3D printer (usually with a translucent plastic like PLA or resin).

• Revealing the Image: When the finished 3D print is held up to a light source, the differences in thickness cause the light to pass through at varying intensities, revealing the original image in shades of gray. The effect is almost like a ghost image that only truly appears when illuminated.

Key characteristics of 3D printed lithophanes:

• Translucent Material: They are made from materials that allow light to pass through, but aren't completely transparent.

• Backlit Display: The image is only clearly visible when light shines through from behind.

• Grayscale Effect: While some methods attempt to add color, traditional and most common 3D printed lithophanes produce a grayscale (black and white) image due to the light-blocking effect of varying thicknesses.

• Customizable Shapes: 3D printing allows for a variety of shapes beyond flat plaques, such as curved, cylindrical, spherical, or even custom lamp designs.