Aspherical conversions.

[ManBearPig]

I converted these 2 lights from Dealextreme with aspherical lenses, Cree P4 emitters(Q5's weren't available when I placed my order), and AMC7135 regulators at 1050mA. I also replaced the 4aaa adapters with 18650 Li-ions. The one on the right uses a 50mm lens, left 55mm ar coated.

I played with the 50mm one Saturday night in the woods and it was a blast. The beam looks like a white light sabre. It's like a mini search light. My camera didn't do a good job photographing it.

This is pointing straight up. Flying bugs caused the weird lines. It was MUCH brighter in person.

Best shot I could muster. The beam going to the left was caused by the camera. I'll Try to take some better pics later.

I need to tweak the 55mm light some. It's not as bright as the 50. I'm pretty sure it's a bad emitter. It has an awful pink tint to it. I swapped the regulator with no change.

If there is enough interest, I may build some for you folks.

 

[Long John]

MBP, nice work :goodjob:


Good stuff to play with :twothumbs


Best regards

____
Tom

 

[JamisonM]

I just ordered a couple of the aspherics from surplus shed and they should be ariving some time this week. I can't wait and see what they can do in my 4D maglite with one of Gene's drop-in's installed. I can't wait to see the results.

 

[IsaacHayes]

It could be the 55 has too far of a focal length and when in focus the percent of light from the emitter it's getting is very weak. You may end up with a tighter beam but less intense.

 

[nitnapz]

hey guys, my interest has been sparked with the asph lenses as well, i saw a similiar setup in a benz suv
s headlights, i was wondering what the light beam or sweetspot would look like with a high output incandescant ? lets say a WA 1185 bulb

 

[ManBearPig]

It could be the 55 has too far of a focal length and when in focus the percent of light from the emitter it's getting is very weak. You may end up with a tighter beam but less intense.

I thought at first the anti-reflective coating may be the problem. With the heads removed and shining side by side a few inches on the wall, you still get the pink tint and low output. I'll try to swap the emitter soon.