how do i light up plexiglass/acrylic?

Question

okay so i was watching trick my truck and they used either lexan, plexiglass, or acrylic (i do not know which). well, they cut/engraved a design (u.s. map) in the material and then used a light source (LEDs probably) to light up the etched out area on the material. does anyone know what this process is called and how it's done? i wanted to use that process to make my own design. any answers would be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

I'm not sure of the "name" of the process, but you sand the bottom or top EDGE of the plexi, and then shine the light "up" through the plexi.

Back in the 1980's, we had to build a BOX under the plexi to contain a fluorescent or incandescent light source... No light slipping out to ANYTHING but the edge of the Plexiglas.

I'm sure LED's are a better source... lumens with lower wattage and less heat.

I hope someone can give you some good links

Answer 2

Plexiglass Lighting

Answer 3

The effect comes from the tendency of light to be reflected rather than transmitted or absorbed when it hits the barrier between the acrylic and air at a very oblique angle, thus "ducting" the light much like a fiber optic strand does. You can etch or sandblast a design on acrylic or polycarbonate (Lexan) and direct light from the edge. When the light is bouncing around inside the acrylic sheet like it's between two mirrors, it will hit the etched areas which, at a microscopic level, present all sorts of angles for the light to hit. Some of these angles are just right to allow the light to pass through, making your design "light up." Works best if the lit edge or edges are cut flat and polished.

Answer 4

It was lit with fluorescent lights. When lit edge on,or from the sides the engraved design shows up the same color as the lights. You can use theater gels to change the color of the fluorescent. Etching Plexiglas is a tricky business you will need a Dremel tool and some new micro ball bits. It's best to start small before you tackle a major project. Good luck .