Stories with Tag upcycling

• DIY "infinity contrast" TV – with 100% recycled parts [video]

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  Posted: 2025-03-04 14:55:14

  Verbose tl;dr

  This video demonstrates building a "faux infinity mirror" effect around a TV screen using recycled materials. The creator utilizes a broken LCD monitor, extracting its backlight and diffuser panel. These are then combined with a one-way mirror film applied to a picture frame and strategically placed LED strips to create the illusion of depth and infinite reflections behind the TV. The project highlights a resourceful way to enhance a standard television's aesthetic using readily available, discarded electronics.

  This YouTube video documents the meticulous construction of a unique "infinity contrast" television display using entirely recycled or repurposed components. The creator, evidently possessing a strong background in electronics and a passion for sustainable practices, embarks on a detailed demonstration of transforming discarded technology into a functional and visually striking piece of equipment.

  The core concept revolves around utilizing the highly reflective properties of a discarded LCD panel's polarizer film to create an illusion of infinite contrast. The video meticulously details the disassembly of an old LCD monitor, carefully salvaging the polarizer film which is then repurposed as the primary display surface. This film, normally responsible for controlling light transmission in an LCD, is here employed for its ability to effectively block light when oriented correctly, creating near-perfect black levels.

  Instead of relying on the LCD's backlighting, the creator ingeniously employs a separate, independently controlled light source projected onto the reflective polarizer. By selectively illuminating specific areas of the film, the creator mimics the function of pixels, essentially creating a projected image on the reflective surface. The areas not illuminated remain dark due to the polarizer's light-blocking properties, thereby achieving the desired "infinite contrast" effect, as the blacks are truly black due to the absence of light.

  The video meticulously showcases the construction process, including the design and fabrication of a custom mounting system for the polarizer film and the projector. The creator demonstrates a thorough understanding of optics and electronics, explaining the principles behind the design choices and demonstrating the necessary adjustments to achieve optimal image quality. The integration of recycled components is emphasized throughout, further highlighting the project's environmentally conscious approach.

  The result is a highly unconventional display with exceptionally deep black levels, albeit with limited resolution and color reproduction capabilities compared to standard displays. The creator acknowledges these limitations, emphasizing the experimental nature of the project and its focus on exploring alternative display technologies using sustainable methods. The video concludes with a demonstration of the finished product, showcasing the unique visual characteristics of the "infinity contrast" display and its potential for artistic applications. The entire process, from conceptualization to final demonstration, is documented in a comprehensive and engaging manner, emphasizing the ingenuity and technical skill involved in this DIY endeavor.

  • DIY
  • Television
  • TV
  • Infinity Contrast
  • Recycled
  • Electronics
  • video
  • Tutorial
  • hacking
  • Modding
  • Repair
  • upcycling
  • CRT
  • display technology
  • Electronics Project

  Summary of Comments ( 3 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43255446

  Verbose tl;dr

  HN commenters largely praised the ingenuity and DIY spirit of the project, with several expressing admiration for the creator's resourcefulness in using recycled materials. Some discussed the technical aspects, questioning the actual contrast ratio achieved and pointing out that "infinity contrast" is a misnomer as true black is impossible without individually controllable pixels like OLED. Others debated the practicality and image quality compared to commercially available projectors, noting potential issues with brightness and resolution. A few users shared similar DIY projection projects they had undertaken or considered. Overall, the sentiment was positive, viewing the project as a fun experiment even if not a practical replacement for a standard TV.

  The Hacker News post linking to the YouTube video about a DIY "infinity contrast" TV built with recycled parts generated a moderate number of comments, mostly focusing on the technical aspects and feasibility of the project.

  Several commenters questioned the use of the term "infinity contrast," pointing out that while the approach improves black levels, it doesn't achieve true infinite contrast. They argued that some light still leaks through, and the contrast ratio, while improved, is finite. This sparked a discussion about the definition and practical limitations of contrast ratios in display technology.

  One commenter discussed the challenges of achieving perfect black levels and how even high-end OLED displays struggle with near-black gray uniformity, where different areas of the screen might display slightly different shades of near-black. This ties into the broader conversation about the limitations of display technology and the trade-offs involved in different approaches.

  Another line of discussion revolved around the practicality of the project. Commenters debated the cost-effectiveness of building such a display versus buying a commercially available one, especially considering the time and effort involved in sourcing and assembling the components. Some also questioned the longevity and reliability of a DIY solution compared to manufactured displays.

  There were also comments appreciating the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the project, highlighting the value of repurposing old technology. Some users expressed interest in trying similar projects or suggested alternative approaches to achieving similar results. A few commenters shared their own experiences with similar projects involving projection systems and ambient light rejection techniques.

  Finally, a few commenters provided additional technical insights into the workings of projection systems and the specific components used in the video, offering further context for those interested in understanding the technical details of the project. Overall, the comments section provided a mix of technical discussion, practical considerations, and appreciation for the DIY spirit of the project, demonstrating a typical Hacker News engagement with such topics.

• A Laptop Stand Made from a Single Sheet of Recycled Paper

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  Posted: 2025-01-11 01:07:31

  Verbose tl;dr

  Designer and maker Nick DeMarco created a simple yet effective laptop stand using just a single sheet of recycled paper. By cleverly folding the paper using a series of creases, he formed a sturdy structure capable of supporting a laptop. The design is lightweight, portable, easily replicated, and demonstrates a resourceful approach to utilizing readily available materials. The stand is specifically designed for smaller, lighter laptops and aims to improve ergonomics by raising the screen to a more comfortable viewing height.

  In a testament to the ingenuity of minimalist design and the surprising structural capabilities of humble materials, designer Johan Jonsson has unveiled a remarkably simple yet effective laptop stand crafted from a single sheet of recycled paper. This innovative creation, aptly dubbed the "Paper Laptop Stand," eschews complex manufacturing processes and excessive material consumption in favor of an elegant, origami-inspired approach. Utilizing a series of precisely calculated folds and creases, Jonsson transforms a flat, unremarkable piece of recycled paper into a robust and functional support structure capable of elevating a laptop to a more ergonomic viewing angle.

  This economical and environmentally conscious design not only reduces reliance on resource-intensive materials like plastic or metal but also promotes the repurposing of readily available discarded paper. The stand's construction leverages the inherent tensile strength and rigidity achievable through strategic folding, effectively distributing the laptop's weight across the paper's surface. Its lightweight nature contributes to its portability, allowing users to easily transport and deploy the stand wherever needed, be it a home office, a coffee shop, or a co-working space.

  Jonsson's creation exemplifies a growing trend in sustainable design, prioritizing resource efficiency and minimizing environmental impact. The Paper Laptop Stand serves as a compelling demonstration of how clever design thinking can transform commonplace materials into practical and aesthetically pleasing objects. By embracing simplicity and ingenuity, this design offers a refreshing alternative to conventional laptop stands, providing users with a sustainable and readily accessible solution for enhancing their workspace ergonomics. Furthermore, the open-source nature of the design, freely available as a downloadable template, empowers individuals to create their own stands, fostering a spirit of self-reliance and resourcefulness. This democratization of design further amplifies the project's positive environmental impact by reducing reliance on mass-produced goods and empowering individuals to actively participate in a more sustainable lifestyle.

  • laptop stand
  • DIY
  • recycled paper
  • papercraft
  • sustainable design
  • ergonomics
  • portable
  • lightweight
  • office supplies
  • desk accessories
  • eco-friendly
  • cardboard
  • folding
  • origami
  • recycling
  • reuse
  • upcycling
  • work from home
  • laptop accessories
  • simple design
  • minimalism

  Summary of Comments ( 22 )
  https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=42662329

  Verbose tl;dr

  Hacker News commenters generally expressed skepticism about the practicality and durability of the single-sheet paper laptop stand. Several questioned its ability to support the weight of a laptop, especially over extended periods, and predicted it would quickly collapse or tear. Some suggested that while it might work for lighter devices like tablets, it wouldn't be suitable for heavier laptops. Others pointed out the potential for instability and wobbling. There was some discussion of alternative DIY laptop stand solutions, including using cardboard or other more robust materials. A few commenters appreciated the minimalist and eco-friendly concept, but overall the sentiment was that the design was more of a novelty than a practical solution.

  The Hacker News discussion on the Core77 article about a paper laptop stand generates a mixed bag of skepticism, praise, and tangential discussion. Several users question the stand's practicality and durability. One commenter points out the irony of using paper, a relatively fragile material, to support a potentially expensive laptop, highlighting the risk of spills or humidity compromising the stand's integrity. This concern is echoed by another who doubts the stand's ability to withstand regular use and the weight of a laptop, especially during typing, predicting it would likely tear or collapse.

  Another thread of conversation emerges regarding the environmental impact of such a product. A commenter suggests that the "recycled" aspect might be a marketing ploy, arguing that the energy and resources used to produce and distribute these stands could outweigh the benefits of using recycled paper. They propose that a more sustainable approach would be to simply repurpose existing household items.

  On the more positive side, some users appreciate the ingenuity and minimalist design of the stand. One commenter highlights its portability and ease of assembly, suggesting it could be useful for travel or temporary setups. Another echoes this sentiment, acknowledging the limitations of a paper stand but recognizing its potential value in specific situations.

  A few comments veer off-topic, discussing alternative DIY laptop stand solutions, including using books or other readily available objects. One user even links to a previous Hacker News discussion on ergonomic laptop setups, further demonstrating the community's interest in this topic.

  Finally, several comments express a desire for more information, such as the thickness and type of paper used, questioning whether the stand's design could be adapted for heavier laptops or different angles. Overall, the comments section reflects a healthy dose of critical thinking and practicality, balanced with an appreciation for innovative design solutions.