Pixel Spinner/Star Burst

[Phrog30]

I wanted to post some information about a prop I made last year in case others would be interested in building the same or similar.
Here is a link to all files, including photos and video. https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B-5kPtgWJjV9UFItT1ZhaHJnWW8
I've always liked the pixel spinners, or some call star bursts, but I didn't want something too big. The end result is a small footprint, very easy to install and take down, has a wreath like look, and very cheap to make.

I had them made by Boscoyo, http://boscoyostudio.com/products/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=2&zenid=1dd8p0f14p6q80dlernu4b5ne0
. James made them custom for me for approx. $8/ea. They are 21.5" diameter, the coro is 3/8" thick, and the overall depth is 2.5". The depth could possibly be reduced if you used flat pixels. I included some files that show specific node layout and placement.

Each one has 61 pixels. I used bullet pixels from HolidayCoro. Here are is a link for the lights along with links to other vendors that sell something similar.
http://www.holidaycoro.com/Smart-Pixel-LED-RGB-8mm-12mm-Nodes-12v-DC-p/711.htm
http://www.diyledexpress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=42_44&products_id=267
http://pixelsequencing.mysimplestore.com/products/ws-2811-12v-smart-pixels-50ct


I've used both Vixen 3 and xLights 4. The props are very easy to make in Vixen, as they have this element built it. It's a little more difficult in xLights, as you have to make a custom model. I included the xlights model layout in the share link. I also included a demo sequence written in xLights (don't worry about the audio, just pick a song - I didn't sync to anything). I use both Vixen 3 and xLights 4, but xLights is really my go to now. Vixen has the ability to make several groups, which allows you to do unique effects based on those grouping. It is possible to do this in xLights as well. I demonstrated this in the file I shared. I was able to use the same effect in xLights, but apply to a different group/model and was able to achieve very different and unique results.

I install these in the middle of each window using tension rods (curtain rod). I got mine from Bed Bath & Beyond, but you can get them at several places. So, very quick to install and take down and no drilling or brackets required. We had several storms this year with high winds and no issues.
Here is a link:
Springs Window Fashions Adjustable 22-Inch – 36-Inch Oval Spring Tension Curtain Rod in White
http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/springs-window-fashions-adjustable-oval-spring-tension-curtain-rod/3241492?Keyword=Springs+Window+Fashions+Adjustable+22+Inch+%C3%A2%C2%80%C2%93+36+Inch+Oval+Spring+Tension+Curtain+Rod+in+White

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask. Any feedback is welcome, I'm always up for hearing better ways to do things.

James

[Steve Gase]

the link to drive is bad... it has "..."  instead of some of the import link details.
...actually, that it a problem with all of the links.

thanks for sharing!   

(that curtain rod idea is inspired!)

[Phrog30]

the link to drive is bad... it has "..."  instead of some of the import link details.
...actually, that it a problem with all of the links.

thanks for sharing!   

(that curtain rod idea is inspired!)

Sorry, I broke all links when copying... did that on other forums as well.  They should work now.

James

[Gilrock]

I added the ability to model a spinner last year.  You use the circles effect and type in 12,12,12,12,12 to create concentric circles and you fill in the first circle percentage and I forget what else is on the page.  I just don't think you get the pixel in the middle since that is out of place from all the spinners I was shown when creating the model.

[Steve Gase]

the effects are great!   i need to use them on my other props... but this spinner is definitely on the list for the next display.

thanks phrog and gil !

[Phrog30]

the effects are great!   i need to use them on my other props... but this spinner is definitely on the list for the next display.

thanks phrog and gil !

Yes, thanks Gil, Dan, Sean. All of this wouldn't be possible without your great work.

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[needbrew]

Will the built in model do the same as the custom ones?  I love the effects that he has in the included video.

Very nice, looks like some spinners for me this year

[Phrog30]

Will the built in model do the same as the custom ones?  I love the effects that he has in the included video.

Very nice, looks like some spinners for me this year

Besides the star model, I several other models. One is arranged in node order 1,2,3,etc . One is arranged in spin configuration, from middle node spinning outward. Then I have 5 individual models looking at each ring. Look at the photos, I tools screenshots showing this.

Some of the most unique effects were created using the models other than the star model.

James

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[arw01]

Great job with the effects, very impressed.  Steve and I have the porcupine balls and I think a few of those effects could look pretty interesting in their 3d.

[markrvp]

Thank you Phrog!!! 

As a newbie to RGB lighting and xLights you have NO idea how much I truly appreciate this!  When I first learned sequencing in LOR, looking at Richard Holdman's seqhences helped me understand the way he created motion.  Having your sequence helps me the same way.

[drlucas]

I didn't realize that Gil. I'll play around and see how I can make those changes. And thanks for the idea about the curtain rods. Finally - I need a Canadian version of James here. Very cool he did the custom build for you.


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