Overview
A Shoji Lamp is a lantern formed by stretching paper over a wooden, bamboo or metal frame.
Shoji lamps are intended to provide enough illumination to complement the ambience of nighttime.
Tools: Procreate (Sketching), Autodesk Fusion360, 3D Printing
Dimensions: 18 x 18 x 22 cm
Sketches
The original plan was to create a fully 3D-printed lamp, which are reflected in the sketches below. I pivoted my design after I remembered a rectangular Japanese paper lantern I made in 7th-grade woodworking class. I was inspired to recreate that, but also incorporate geometries that would be otherwise difficult to produce in traditional woodworking.
Final Design
Assembly
Designing for 3D Printing
– Account for dimensional tolerance (3D printer inaccuracies)
– Design gaps for part allowance
– Reduce need for supports by minimizing overhang
– Print size restrictions (max. 220 x 220 x 250 mm)
– Stock light fixture cannot be disassembled and needs to be secured
Design Considerations
– Printed structure in multiple parts to minimize overhang
– Notches and ridges to join parts
– Mount for light fixture printed in two parts to allow cord to pass through the base
– 5 mm frame thickness so paper can be attached smoothly
– Printed in clear PLA to minimize the visibility of the frame under the paper
– Removable top cover (note: Philips hue lightbulb emits ~90% less heat)
Kaylee Jung
© 2024