Uploaded June 2013 | Updated September 2026, 2 days ago
Full Details : dscript.org/diy-magic-shadow-lights
Here is an inside look at the "the Magicians Desk", one of my most recent experiments.
This little invention, simply put, turns lights on with shadows. It does this by using a circuit that constantly tries to turn the relays on, and resists them with the solar panels. The result is when a shadow falls on the panel, it "releases its hold" and allows the lights to turn on.
This version causes variable "flickering" with partial shadows, but with more expensive components, it could of course have "dimming" as well.
All that is needed is
3 mini solar panels
3 solid state relays
a variable DC power source
Bulbs and cable/wire/sockets
3 potentiometers (for adjusting each of the panel circuit to be "just right" so that it is just barely holding the relay off when the panel is fully charged.)
You of course will also need a "desk". A simple box, with a light in the bottom a hold on the side and panels on the roof will work as well.(the first prototype as this simple box design)
I don't particularly want to draw out all the circuits and DIY instructions, especially since it uses high voltage and the high wattage bulbs in small wood/cardboard spaces may be a fire hazard. Should probably not be tried by most novices without supervision. it is simple enough i think, if you have enough knowledge top build one without electrocuting yourself and burning down your house, then this explanation + the video should be plenty of information to build your own ;)
Full Details : dscript.org/diy-magic-shadow-lights
Here is an inside look at the "the Magicians Desk", one of my most recent experiments.
This little invention, simply put, turns lights on with shadows. It does this by using a circuit that constantly tries to turn the relays on, and resists them with the solar panels. The result is when a shadow falls on the panel, it "releases its hold" and allows the lights to turn on.
This version causes variable "flickering" with partial shadows, but with more expensive components, it could of course have "dimming" as well.
All that is needed is
3 mini solar panels
3 solid state relays
a variable DC power source
Bulbs and cable/wire/sockets
3 potentiometers (for adjusting each of the panel circuit to be "just right" so that it is just barely holding the relay off when the panel is fully charged.)
You of course will also need a "desk". A simple box, with a light in the bottom a hold on the side and panels on the roof will work as well.(the first prototype as this simple box design)
I don't particularly want to draw out all the circuits and DIY instructions, especially since it uses high voltage and the high wattage bulbs in small wood/cardboard spaces may be a fire hazard. Should probably not be tried by most novices without supervision. it is simple enough i think, if you have enough knowledge top build one without electrocuting yourself and burning down your house, then this explanation + the video should be plenty of information to build your own ;)
