There are folks worldwide that are baffled by this internet optical illusion. We can’t believe what we’re seeing here unless we’ve seen it ourselves. A 3D item and a mirror are needed to create this effect. To learn more, read on:
This illusion, sometimes known as the Ambiguous Cylinder Illusion, was created by Meiji University professor Kokichi Sugihara. For his optical illusions, the Japanese mathematician and artist are famed. Ambiguous Cylinder Illusion got second place in the Best Illusion of the Year Contest in 2016.
Two days ago, an Instagram user called ‘physics fun’ re-shared the eye-catching optical illusion that purports to show squares changing into circles. Since then, more than a hundred thousand people have seen it and sent horrified comments on social media.
Four circles or diamond shape? optical illusion
by Matsemann
Are there four circles or a diamond-shaped pattern? The image changes when you rotate it or look at it in the mirror. Sugihara’s math was used in the construction of this model. At a 45-degree angle, this image is at its best.
A larger figure can be placed on a flat surface directly. At the same time, a smaller one can be positioned on a movable support.
Download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3169275
Right pointing arrow – optical illusion
by Matsemann
Based on Kokichi Sugihara’s arithmetic, I’ve created my own version of the right arrow. Even though it rotates, it always points to the left in the mirror!
Both rotating support and one without it are included.
To make it less evident in real light situations, the shape of this arrow is curved rather than sharp, making it less noticeable than other arrows on this page. At a 45-degree angle, this image is at its best.
Download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3169169
Ambiguous cylinders, squares or circles?
by Matsemann
Based on Kokichi Sugihara’s arithmetic, I’ve created my own version of the right arrow. Even though it rotates, it always points to the left in the mirror!
Both rotating support and one without it are included.
To make it less evident in real light situations, the shape of this arrow is curved rather than sharp, making it less noticeable than other arrows on this page. At a 45-degree angle, this image is at its best.
Download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3169169
Star Circle Ambiguous Figure
by drcameron
The original concept was a success. To make printing easier, I linked two of the bases together. I intend to use this as a visual aid in my perception course. A six-point star, not a flower, is my best guess.
Download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3878237
Ambiguous Mug by Milan
by MrMilu
This mug is based on a well-known optical illusion known as the ambiguous cylinder, which I created from the ground up.
This cup can be repurposed if you coat it in ABS and then soak it in acetone.
The handle’s cross-section matches the mug’s overall shape.
Download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4654183
