Okay, I have already posted this question over on Flashlight Forums so I apologize if this is a repost to some of you. A couple of members there have been helpful with ideas but unfortunately the Bicylcle headlights they recommended I look into will not fit my needs. One of the members there mentioned I may get more response here so I am hoping someone here may be able to offer a little more input.
I want to put together a lighting solution for my wheelchair. I live in a rural environment and am often rolling around in dark areas. I would like to add some light to illuminate the ground in front of me. I don't need to light up the world, I just need to be able to see obstacles in my path. My original thoughts were to use a weatherproof LED strip like these http://www.oznium.com/led-flex-strips on the foot rest powered by a lithium cell, or cells, with a small push button or rocker switch. The light strips that I have found so far are manufactured for 12v use. I really have no Idea what I would need to power the LEDs or if this is even possible. I know that I may have to fabricate a battery box or convert some other device to hold the batteries. I don't think that will be a major issue once I know what I am looking for. One of the foremost concerns is weight. When adding accessories to a chair, believe it or not, ounces can matter. Another is battery life. I want fairly long run times. So, can anyone tell me what I may need to power this system or if I need to look in another direction for a lighting solution. Is it possible that running a lower voltage to these 12volt strips would work. If so, what voltage might I want to try as a starting point? As I said I don't need a lot of light and a dimmer light may even be advantageous so as not to screw with night vision. Thanks much for any thoughts.
-Bake
I want to put together a lighting solution for my wheelchair. I live in a rural environment and am often rolling around in dark areas. I would like to add some light to illuminate the ground in front of me. I don't need to light up the world, I just need to be able to see obstacles in my path. My original thoughts were to use a weatherproof LED strip like these http://www.oznium.com/led-flex-strips on the foot rest powered by a lithium cell, or cells, with a small push button or rocker switch. The light strips that I have found so far are manufactured for 12v use. I really have no Idea what I would need to power the LEDs or if this is even possible. I know that I may have to fabricate a battery box or convert some other device to hold the batteries. I don't think that will be a major issue once I know what I am looking for. One of the foremost concerns is weight. When adding accessories to a chair, believe it or not, ounces can matter. Another is battery life. I want fairly long run times. So, can anyone tell me what I may need to power this system or if I need to look in another direction for a lighting solution. Is it possible that running a lower voltage to these 12volt strips would work. If so, what voltage might I want to try as a starting point? As I said I don't need a lot of light and a dimmer light may even be advantageous so as not to screw with night vision. Thanks much for any thoughts.
-Bake
