Kickstarter, the well-known online fund-raising tool, has a few interesting photonics-related projects interspersed among its other funding schemes. Avoiding certain light-related devices (Rockin' Party Lights, for one), here's a short list:
NODE CO2 Sensor: Measure Air Quality Anywhere, Anytime (measures CO2 optical absorption in a small chamber) -- this item was successfully funded on Dec. 31, 2013.
The MicroSlice | A Mini Arduino Laser Cutter & Engraver -- successfully funded on Feb. 22, 2014.
The MicrobeScope (iPhone-based microscope) -- funding drive still in effect.
3-axis stabilized video gimbal for DSLR and video cameras -- funding drive still in effect.
OpenPool: Digital Billiard DIY Kit (a pool table that uses an underlying large LED sign for visual effects) -- funding drive still in effect.
John Wallace | Senior Technical Editor (1998-2022)
John Wallace was with Laser Focus World for nearly 25 years, retiring in late June 2022. He obtained a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and physics at Rutgers University and a master's in optical engineering at the University of Rochester. Before becoming an editor, John worked as an engineer at RCA, Exxon, Eastman Kodak, and GCA Corporation.