Not totally sure if this is the best place to post this so please bear with me!
So, I’ve found myself in an area where I have ZERO knowledge. I know nothing about what I’m trying to do here so I’m anxiously crossing my fingers hoping that after several youtube videos and articles that I’m on the right path. But now I need some more specialized expertise.
I’m attempting to build an LED flow wand. For those who are wondering:https://shop.astralhoops.com/collections/wands/products/atomic-v-levitation-wand-designer
It’s basically a shock resistant poly-carbonate tube with a strip of programmable LEDs inside that you spin around for fun. I’m just trying not to shell out $300. It seems simple enough, but this would be my first project of this kind and I’ve quickly found myself out of my depth. WAY out of my depth. I don’t understand the jargon or how to make a proper diagram or anything. But I’m stubborn and I don’t give up easy. My husband told me to find a subreddit so I posted this there. Then it was recommended in a comment to try this forum.
Here’s what I’ve come up with so far (Please see super ghetto unofficial diagram Imgur: The magic of the Internet ):
A. Power Boost 500 Charger PowerBoost 500 Charger - Rechargeable 5V Lipo USB Boost @ 500mA+ : ID 1944 : $14.95 : Adafruit Industries, Unique & fun DIY electronics and kits
A1. F Micro USB-Power In
A2. F 2 Pin-Power Storage
A3. F USB-Power out
B. Rechargeable 3.7V Battery- Lithium Ion Polymer Battery Ideal For Feathers - 3.7V 400mAh : ID 3898 : $6.95 : Adafruit Industries, Unique & fun DIY electronics and kits
C. M USB to M DC Amazon.com
D. Mini RF https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HCHHM04/?ref=idea_lv_dp_ov_d
D1. F DC
D2. M 3 Pin JST-SM
E. LED Strip Amazon.com
E1. F 3 Pin JST-SM
F. Polycarbonate Tubing Amazon.com
? 3.7V to 5V Converter? Amazon.com
My main concerns are:
I don’t want to start buying things unless I think they’ll work together. Since these are all unfamiliar components to me I have no clue what is compatible with what… or if I’m making this too complicated or not complicated enough.
The LED strip requires a 5V power source and I can only seem to find a 3.7V rechargeable battery pack that will fit inside a 1”diameter tube (I’m willing to compromise on a larger tube but it couldn’t be much larger).
It needs to be an even weight in order to flow properly. It can be slightly heavier on one end if needed. I can weight the other side if it gets too wonky but I’m unsure what would be the best method.
Shock resistant. I’m not going to be beating anyone with this thing, but it needs to be able to handle some sudden stops and drops. I’ll probably end up adhering all of the parts together inside of the tube so nothing is lose in there… but will that make it shock resistant enough?
I’m sure there are unforeseen issues with this design that a more experienced and knowledgeable person will be able to point out! This has turned out to be such a fun challenge-any and ALL help is welcome and appreciated. Thank you for reading and contribulting!