Fascinating Mechanical Iris Steampunk Projects

A mechanical iris is a radially opening aperture which allows light to pass through. We have seen some downright superb steampunk projects and these two examples further demonstrate the beauty of simple mechanics. I’ve decided I want to install one of these in my kitchen counter which opens to reveal a pneumatic lift carrying pre-made food and drinks

The first is an aperture lamp uses LEDs and is made of copper. The thin, overlapping blades of copper reveal a bright LED located behind the disc. The iris (aperture) can be sized to dim or brighten the glow of the lamp.

The second is a mechanical iris made from both wood and brass. The brass outer ring rotates to open and close the inner aperture. The ‘iris’ blades meet together at the center. Check out our top steampunk projects below: