Open-source 3D printed laboratory for education: illuminating optics and optoelectronics demonstrations

Abstract

This article introduces a flexible and reliable tabletop setup, specifically designed to effectively demonstrate fundamental optics concepts to a wide audience, including students from grades 5 through 12, university students, as well as enthusiasts. Leveraging additive manufacturing technology, this work provides an adaptable and accessible avenue for educators, students, and enthusiasts to explore the captivating realm of optics and optoelectronics. The article delves into detailed discussions of the experiments that can be conducted with the proposed setup to elucidate these concepts, presenting their outcomes comprehensively. Moreover, all the Computer Aided Design (CAD) files utilized in this project for 3D printing the essential optical components and systems are made available online for free, enabling users to develop the setup from scratch independently. The proposed setup offers an easily approachable design process, requiring minimal to no prior CAD experience. The experiments performed to illustrate optical concepts are straightforward and safe, making them easily comprehensible and achievable for students at various educational levels.