*BLF LT1 Lantern Project) (updated Nov,17,2020)

This is awesome! I’m so glad to see the project getting some updates and action. Thank you all for your work, especially DBSAR, I really want this one to happen!

While arranging the Q8 for you, I asked Miranda to make sure Barry saw this thread. She said she would, and sounded enthusiastic about the project.

I’d suggest replacing the FET with a stack of 7135s, maybe start at four. Easiest way is to piggyback a generic 7135 driver onto the board, lifting the control pin from the piggyback board MCU and connecting it instead to the gate drive of the Q8 FET. I thought DEL had designed this already, he’s the one to look too for advice.

That sounds like a plan. The Q8 MCPCB shouldn’t cost much, actually it should be rather inexpensive if Thorfire are to be the manufacturer. A new MCPCB supplier was brought on by the Q8 team, who I think have performed (not sure if they used the recommended supplier or did it otherwise, but these big technical parts are not expensive in volume) , possibly speak to djozz who I think set this part up.

Interested in one!

Looking forward to hearing from Barry on this :slight_smile:

That’s what i’m planning on trying in this case.

Using a construction like the Fenix CL20R with horizontal mounted LEDs would make the lens unneccessary.
Is it a good idea to use only two LEDs?
And what about additional red LED?
Simple to use would it be if you can choose the programming at order, to set only the needed modes and levels as well as the mode order and memory function. Since optional bluetooth modules for later upgrades seem to be not in the concept.

And there are Powerbanks which offers two Ports - one USB-C (dual) and one USB A-Type (output). So with USB-C everything is possible.

Thanks to DBSAR and everyone else helping the project progress!

Can I get put on the list for another 2 lanterns (total of 3).

Two LEDs are plenty for the lantern’s target brightness level. Really, even one LED is enough. It only needs to make 500 lm.

A red LED is unlikely because there probably won’t be an extra pin available to control it. This could change though, depending on details.

The current firmware lets the user set the brightness of the lowest and highest levels, and the total number of levels. They are evenly-spaced on a visually-linear scale, automatically. From off, the user has direct access to the lowest level, the highest level, and the memorized level. And quick access to a variety of other modes too, by clicking three or more times.

interested in one, thanks

Yes, one led is enough, that one is probably easier to spread out evenly if any optic would be used. The led even does not need to be on a DTP board, any crap alu board will do the job. Further, the lantern need not to be built very heavy, perhaps for rigidity but not for heat spreading.

I sent a mail to Barry with some suggestions for the Q8, but also I directed him to this thread and suggested to contact DBSAR via PM. I have the impression that email is easier for him so perhaps you could send him an email too? (I will get you his by PM ).

I’d definitely love to see USB C integration. The more I read about updates and discussion about this the more exciting it gets.

Having had a couple of USB C devices it I should say it is nothing special as a power connector, possibly weaker than even USB micro. Good old USB mini is far better. Designed for slimline mobile ’phones, and people who struggle to put the connector in the right way around, to be chucked away or “upgraded” every couple of years.

It does support rapid charging using various proprietary protocols and chargers, which work, but I don’t think are needed here.

It serves a function as a modern data connector I suppose, but doesn’t replace a big solid standard

edit: USB A (maybe 3) port in my affections. Plenty of room for one of these on this lantern. Which, by the way, is also good as a 2+ Amp output connection for powerbank applications.

edit off:

Rant off.

I think this lantern has no need for anything more than a single LED and a generic 7135 driver, perhaps modded for e-switch, preferably with a flashable Attiny controller, maybe running Crescendo. (I think it fits on even the Attiny 13).

I have not signed the interest list because I don’t think I need this, or want the weight/robustness. I already have two Cybalite/Ring/Frendo lanterns which have given good use over several years running from x3 D cells (or Cs or AAs in carriers). Notionally 300 lumens, which is plenty.

This sort of thing: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ring-Cyba-Lite-Vega-LED-Lantern/dp/B002FW3TF4

I even gave one an emitter swap to warm it up. They are good enough for me, despite being made of (lightweight, very durable and strong) plastic.

I can also remove the reflector/diffuser and use them as a naked light bulb. Which is how they are mostly used, hanging from a tree on a bit of string, or bouncing off the roof of the tent.

I did consider hollowing out the battery box and putting in as many 18650s in parallel as would fit, together with a charging circuit, but never got around to it.

I will buy into this at the right price, I do love chunky metal things, well designed, and this looks like one.

Higher cost may a prohibiting factor to use a USB-C plug interface/port which is designed more for phones & tablets with data transfer + charging. As in the lantern its just a charging port (no data) its not really worth the point of using a more expensive USB-C interface for just a charging port. The only advantage it would have in this case would be the ambidextrous plug, (can plug in to the port in ant direction) I can not find any power charging circuit that has the USB-C yet.

Interested depending on cost! Would love to have an option for 5000k.

I just found out I haven’t yet showed my interest on this project, how come?

I’d be in for one. If it shares the tube/interface with the Q8 it might get me to buy the set

I see talk about brightness in the 500 lumen range, but with a configurable ceiling I think having the option to go all out would be cool too

I would love to help fulfill the project. Please check your message.

Barry

Reading the message now :slight_smile:

I liked miniUSB too. Unfortunately it has been abandoned around 2010.

Can’t the USB-C plug be used exactly like an microUSB plug, with the only difference it’s a few cent more expensive to buy?
Advantage would be lontime cable compatibility without the need for adapters. And of course when using in dark/unlit places, plugging in the cable will be more convenient :slight_smile:

I agree. I’d support USB Type C as it’s the next big thing. Also it’s more durable.