AutoLume is a custom printed circuit board (PCB) based off of the Nissan Silvia S15 Spec R. The motivation behind this work was to pay homage to this classic Japanese sports car, and to appreciate the intricate work that goes into manufacturing a PCB.
Vector design files were created first. The image of the car was printed onto sublimation sticker paper, and applied to a piece of acrylic cut from the second image.
A PCB was then created consisting of a switch, battery, and 25 LEDs.
The shape of the PCB was then cut from a sheet of copper using a waterjet. The copper was then cleaned in preparation for the ink transfer.
The ink was transferred onto the copper using a heat press, and any sparse traces were filled in with sharpie to prepare for acid etching.
The copper was then washed in Ferric Chloride acid to etch the final circuit design into the copper.
All components were then soldered onto the PCB.
The acrylic piece was then attached to the PCB using brass standoffs and screws.
The completed PCB.
