Modular LED Cubes

FAU, FAPS, Hahn-Schickard, Germany

This demonstrator shows how Mechatronic Integrated Devices (3D-MID) can merge illumination, display of information, and sensing into a single object. Each cube contains a 5×5 matrix of individually addressable WS2812B LEDs. The cubes attach to one another with magnets, so the display can be expanded in any direction to create larger images and animations. An ESP32 microcontroller controls the animations and user interaction, creating ambient lighting elements that can also display simple information.​

The goal is to show the benefits of 3D-MID: Electronics that are structurally integrated, easy to assemble, and simple to reconfigure. By combining modular 3D-printed cubes, the demonstrator becomes a scalable, customizable ambient light that can also present information such as the current time or a weather icon with temperature. Printed capacitive touch sensors on the surface replace mechanical buttons, demonstratingclean, reliable user input that fits the form of the object.​

Functionality

Each cube contains a 5×5 WS2812B LED matrix, while the control cube containsan ESP32 microcontroller that creates the animations. Printed capacitive touch pads on the control cube sense a fingertip and are used to switch modes, adjust brightness, or trigger effects.​

When several cubes are connected witheach other, the software treats them as tiles of one larger virtual canvas. Each cube contributes its 5×5 pixels, and the controller maps all pixels into a single continuous matrixso animations flow smoothly across cube borders. The magnets provide the mechanical and electrical connection, making it quick to expand or rearrange the layout without tools. The result is a plug-and-play, reconfigurable decorative light display that responds instantly to touch.

Benefits of the Project​

The motivation behind this demonstrator is to provide a clear, hands-onexample of what 3D-MID enables: Integrated structure and electronics,minimal assembly effort, and natural user interaction. This projectshowcases a modular, scalable interface that can grow in any direction andthat users can control directly on the surface.​

• Multipurpose: The cubes function as decorative ambient lighting and as aglanceable information surface (e.g. clock, weather icon with temperature).​
• Scalability and reconfigurability: The display can be built small for a deskor large for an exhibition simply by adding cubes. ​
• Sustainable and resilient: If one cube is damaged, only that module needsrepair or replacement. The system remains operational without it,improving lifetime, serviceability, and waste reduction.​
• Outreach value: The visible integration of electronics onto the 3D-printedbody makes the principles of 3D-MID easy to understand for non-experts.​