Cheuk Yu • 2021 • Wood, Metalworking and Electrical Work
Built using aluminum and wood to mimic a real jet engine
Features a 50-watt high-power LED cooled by a CPU fan and heatsink
Adjustable dimming through a USB-C power source
Functional as both a lamp and a decorative design piece
Combines industrial aesthetics with DIY electronics
Aluminum cutting and forming tools
Woodworking tools
Small CPU cooler and thermal paste
50-watt LED module
USB-C power delivery and dimmer switch circuitry
In this project, I designed a custom-built lamp that resembles the form factor of a jet engine, which is not only functional but can also be an aesthetic, display-worthy piece. The main jet engine body is constructed entirely from aluminum sheets, while the base and the wing-shaped support strut are made from wood. The aluminum jet engine section is more than just for show, as inside it houses a 50-watt high-power LED and a compact CPU cooler. Where the cooling fan would draw air from the front intake of the jet engine, through a circular heatsink and then exit out the rear, closely mimicking the airflow of a real jet engine.
To power all this, a 65-watt USB-C power supply is used, which should allow the lamp to easily integrate into any modern setup. This, combined with the dimming circuit, allows the lamp to operate between the brightness of standard desk lamps, all the way up to a level bright enough to light up an entire room. Overall, I'm very pleased with the industrial aesthetic of this lamp with its exposed LED and functional cooling system, combined with the aluminum jet engine body. This project taught me a lot about hands-on material fabrication with aluminum, wood, electrical circuits, and creative problem solving through repurposed components. It helped me better understand the importance of balancing utility with style, and how thoughtful use of existing components can elevate a simple lighting project into something far more standout and technical.
A selection of process and final-stage photos that highlight the progression and detail of this project. From initial preliminary work to refined finishes, these images provide a closer look at the build and design journey.
(Full image gallery available on separate page.)
A quick demonstration of the lamp's dimming functionality and active cooling system in action. The video shows the LED powering on, the cooling fan spinning up, and the brightness being smoothly adjusted using the dimmer circuit.