Also thinking plastic should be considered due weight considerations, and also cost. Assuming reasonable durability, but the lighter it is the less force acting on it to cause damage.[/quote
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I think going composite (plastic or something else) is the way to go. The cost of mold-making might make the project unprofitable however. I would think 5000 units or more would have to be sold to break out on it. Personally, I would not carry a metal flashlight on a backpack venture. As Colin Fletcher once said, “Take care of the ounces and the pounds will take care of themselves.” I cut toothbrushes in half and stuff like that. Nothing metal in or on my pack is how I go, if possible. I’m keen on the aaa batteries as a power option, or aa would be fine too. I can’t imagine carrying power bricks in a backpack.
As I mentioned earlier, I’ll buy anything with the BLF monicker because I like the looks and function of everything I’ve seen. If the mini lantern is too heavy for me, then I’ll surely find a use for it elsewhere. So carry on dbsar, I’m sure it will be cool. Check me for one at least.
I have thought that’s applicable to both LT1v2 and LT1 Micro.
It would be useful to make battery-less USB-powered work one of primary use modes.
Why?
LT1 already works great as a night lamp next to my bed but only as long as it has a cell inside - otherwise there’s coil whine and annoying red/green button. I can use it with a cell but would rather avoid the extra wear I put on the cell.
For portable applications I would often prefer a lantern to be as compact and lightweight as possible. And when I have a powerbank with me (which happens almost always when I’m camping) ditching the battery tube would save a lot of bulk.
Regarding coil whine in the LT1, has anyone tried sticking a big capacitor or two in an 18650-sized shell? It might be possible to replicate the cell’s role as an energy buffer in USB-powered operation without needing the full capacity of an actual cell.
Update: 01/03/2020) i am awaiting for a couple potential hosts bases from Barry & Sofirn shipped out to me a couple weeks back, once i receive them i can work on the design & testing for the micro/Mini LT1.