Folks have been projecting 3D images (and people) for over a hundred years. Have a smartphone or tablet? You can build your own projector that can make imagery from your mobile device jump off the screen with materials that should cost just few dollars.

Instructable contributor mikroGanesh has a do-it-yourself project for a 3-D pyramid projector that takes just a few minutes and requires a minimal amount of materials.

3-D Pyramid Projector

The “technology” of the 3-D pyramid projector involves reflecting an image onto clear glass or plastic so that it looks like it’s floating. The illusion is often called the Pepper’s Ghost method of projection. The ballroom in the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland is one of the most popular displays of this technique.

There are also a number of different versions of 3-D pyramid projector projects floating around the Internet. You could use an old clear CD case, the plastic packaging from a toy, or even transparency film used with overhead projectors. The material just needs to be sturdy and clear.

The Instructables project by mikroGanesh includes a PDF printout of the shapes that you can cut out of your plastic sheet. Once glued (or taped) together, the projector is ready to use.

Looking for something to project? Grab your smartphone and search for “holographic videos” on YouTube to show off your projector project.

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