Brain Lamp - Accurate & Life-Size

Important note: this model requires significant post-processing. Please see the section below for details to decide if this is a project you want to take on.

This print is a true-scale representation of a human brain & is a great fit for the classroom! To create the model, I used imagery from my own MRI imagery and followed the process described in this article (link updated to Wayback machine as site is now offline). This can be an interesting process for students to go hands-on with medical imagery and to use open-source software to convert a series of 2D images into a 3D mesh.

Although this model is realistic in shape and detail, it is split in half so that it can be used as a decorative lamp or even a candy dish!

Parts

1. Brain top
2. Brain bottom
3. Light holder
4. Stand

So that you can better position the light within the brain, you can insert the LED into the printed ring before placing it in the brain.
The brain can be placed on the stand by aligning the three pegs as shown to the right. Note that the tallest peg aligns to the front of the brain.

Printing tips & support removal

• This model prioritizes the realistic shape and surface of the brain. As a result, there are significant supports included in the print profile and post-processing will be needed.
• To make support removal easier, AMS can be used to add PETG or Support PLA as an interface layer. This adds significant print time and does produce some waste but make the post-processing easier.
• Using a light, opaque PLA with limited infill will allow the most light to pass through.

Updates

• Updated 9/22/24 to revised the part that holds the LED light - this version should have a better fit and better angle the light. Also, changed support in the print profile to use “Tree Slim”.

I love creating models to share for free, personal use. If you enjoyed this model, please consider buying me a coffee or joining me on Patreon.