January 14, 2019
During a major power outage in the lab I idled my time away reading Flatland by flashlight. When the lights came back on this idea manifested in my head.
Invention idea #04008.2 pulled from my notebooks to share.
In Development: Prototype 1
Reproduction plans (CC BY-SA) and limited release prototypes will be available after final.
Some products purchased through links may earn me a small commission to help fund further inventing to share with you. Thank you for your support.
FLAT-ish.
Idea was to make a bright flashlight that was as flat as possible. It should fit standard batteries, fit comfortably in a hand, and allow for different positioning to take full advantage of it's geometry.
Design notes on each version. Select a tab to learn more.
Last updated: October, 2022
TO DO LIST:
- Use lower voltage LED's. 5-8V. Probably not strip lights; rather, discrete LED's in custom PCB.
- Design 3D printed housing.
- PWM circuit to save power?
- Need voltage converter for LEDs.
- Battery control module if using rechargables.
I worked together with my Twitch viewers to evolve the flatlight into a more resonable size and work with AA batteries. We designed it to use off-the-shelf LED strip lights to make assembly fast and simple.
The geometry is designed to allow different hands-free positions and mounting.
DESIGN NOTES:
- I used a 12v LED strip which puts off a lot of light.
- The width of the flatlight is based on AA battery width. This is a good width for holding and setting on end.
- AA batteries are a bit limiting so consider going with rechargeable battery packs with battery management. (2S)
- The angle on the back is not positioned correctly for projecting light at a comfortable angle and causes issue with standing upright.
- Not sure about mounting hole idea. Stick with it if considering wireless charging; otherwise might go with magnetic mounting.
- Consider putting button on side instead of top edge. Easier to use when on wall and reasonable to press when held.
