500 Lumen - AAA Flashlight (photos) - Work In Progress - Part 2

[the_guy_with_no_name]

Speechless ! Read the email, the secret floored me Awesome! Have not " needed " a light this bad for a long time. Your thread and product design are a "10" and all others will be judged against yours.
Put me down for several complete packages!!

Thanks sledhead,
Very glad you enjoyed the secret
Thank you for the OVERLY kind words (and thanks to everyone)
I sincerely appreciate your compliment though humbly I must say, there are many wonderful and far more experienced makers of superb lights here on cpf and I've been fortunate to learn more than a few things from them, but I'm doing my best to try and bring a new flavor and direction in terms of design and creation to the flashlight world.

I remember reading a funny thread here something to the tune of "why are looks so important for just a tool"?
Someone pointed out that if the design was so that it looked like something the dog left behind, would you use it less/more or even buy it? Inspiring stuff.
I could never understand why some of the $$$$ lights came in a package similar to a disposable shaver
That being said, the simple packaging has no impact on the quality of some of the most amazing lights.

That's the beauty of the free market. We can make whatever we like but at the end of the day, you are the judge.
Hopefully I'm headed in the right direction

Awesoooome! the secret is indeed very cool. I can't wait for this light! glad to see that youre putting in the effort to get it right too, rather than rush production. definitely better in the long run, and its just better to get it right the first time. keep it up!

Thanks mrbickelsworth,
So glad you liked it and yes, I totally agree that "recalls" suck so getting it right the first time is the only way to go.
Reminds me of the saying "If you don't have time to come back and fix the bugs, make sure your get it right the first time!"

Am I seeing 3 bodies there?!!
It looks like 10250, 10440, and the expandable?

Wow, simply stunning.

Hi jabe,
Thanks
Very sharp eyes!
In the tube (its a proto), yes there are 3 bodies.
The 2nd small body is a proto where the tail cap can be unscrewed and removed.
I was hoping we could use this to secure the clip but unless we increase the length, the threading will be too short and not have enough strength for long term use.
For now, still planning to include the 2 bodies (10440 & Adjustable 10250).

Subscribed. Any chance of a full knurl version or no knurl version in 6/4 Titanium?

Hi bmstrong,
thanks for subscribing
Sure, there is always a chance. I can't make any concrete promise at this stage but as I usually mention,
its only a question of timing/demand. With enough demand, it can be made at a reasonable price

tgwnn

[cistallus]

tgwnn,

After finally reading all threads in their entirety, I am very excited about this light!

A few bits of feedback and questions. If any ideas can't be incorporated in the current version, please keep in mind for later revisions:

• Firefly: I was concerned about no firefly mode but it sounds like the actual level combined with the floody beam will be low enough.
• GITD: Since there's no trit option (even though it looks like it's easily done as DIY project), how about providing a GITD O-ring that can just be slipped over the body? Or if there is an O-ring under the lens, put it there?
• Memory: I am glad there is no memory - operation seems simple and intuitive.
• Spacing: I have the LiteFlux LF2X (twisty version of LF2XT), its mode space stops are at 90 degrees, which is good, but your 120 degrees could be fine, just have to see.
• Fast-On?: What is the mode switch time? If you spin it looser really quick can you get to Turbo in like 0.3 seconds, or are there delays?
• Battery change: I agree with this post https://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?p=3744948 that it would be nice to avoid a blast in the face when changing battery. Logically, from no battery to battery, stay dark and either just delay 1 second, or wait until twist to off, before normal operation.
• Operation: Tighten for off is fantastic, LF2X does it and I love it. The revised electronic version with electronic lockout is not quite as ideal but with that low of a parasitic drain it should in practice be fine. (Just means that if a Torpedo is in your EOTWAWKI kit, have head untwisted from body so no battery contact).
• Price: love the reasonable price, but don't short yourself of enough profit to fund further R&D, cover contingencies like warranty/recall, and keep going creating fantastic lights!
• Lens: what about a slip-over lens? Since it could be a bit bigger and even longer, could that work to get somewhat more of a focused beam for when that is needed?
• Glass: is it an open reflector like E01, no glass lens in front? That might be good to reduce lumen loss, keep it simple and more rugged. As long as it can still be IPX8.
• Diffuser: If the good ol' chapstick-cap trick doesn't work on this light, please find/recommend/offer something that does. I am talking about a lantern-type diffuser, where you are using it as a tiny candle lantern, not a beam diffuser which seems kind of unnecessary on this light.
• Rugged: is it, overall? Is wall thickness good? I don't mean like an HDS, but at least not thin.
• Tint: I like that a neutral tint is most likely. Will that mean it won't quite be 500 emitter lumens though?
• Length: Both the web site front page and post 1 in part 1 still show AAA as 65mm or 66mm long, as opposed to around 82mm of e.g. https://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?p=3751439.
• Colors: Different body colors would be nice - like iTP - or do like 38DD and just work with an anodizing partner who can do all that work.
• Interactive: Thank you for being so responsive - so many designers/manufacturers are less than transparent - this thread is wonderful!
• Batteries: I'd probably get a couple of each size.
• Inductor: one recent pic showed a [relatively] huge inductor - I thought some early post mentioned there'd be an SMD inductor to save space - that didn't work out?
• Payment: will I need to have a PayPal account to purchase one?
• Web site: News page way out of date - maybe eliminate it and just point to CPF thread(s) in navigation sidebar?
• XM-L U2: Any chance of this higher-efficiency LED, maybe hand-selected if necessary for good tint?
• Manual:
  
  • Insure it is OK (legal) to use ANSI icons if you aren't going to get the (expensive) real FL1 certification.
  • Page 4: Saftey
  • Page 6: Eneloop should have the same voltage designation as NiMh, since it is.
  • Features: I don't know if Tactical (two places) is the right term for such a tiny light; "Frictionless" somewhat misleading, I hope it has some friction so it stays in place!
  • This operator's manual doesn't yet actually say exactly how the operator operates it! :-)

[hazna]

thanks for the update! I'm really looking forward to this light, but do take your time to iron out any bugs. Your right, 'recalls' are ever so annoying. Keep up the good work!

[the_guy_with_no_name]

tgwnn,

After finally reading all threads in their entirety, I am very excited about this light!

A few bits of feedback and questions. If any ideas can't be incorporated in the current version, please keep in mind for later revisions:

• Firefly: I was concerned about no firefly mode but it sounds like the actual level combined with the floody beam will be low enough.
• GITD: Since there's no trit option (even though it looks like it's easily done as DIY project), how about providing a GITD O-ring that can just be slipped over the body? Or if there is an O-ring under the lens, put it there?
• Memory: I am glad there is no memory - operation seems simple and intuitive.
• Spacing: I have the LiteFlux LF2X (twisty version of LF2XT), its mode space stops are at 90 degrees, which is good, but your 120 degrees could be fine, just have to see.
• Fast-On?: What is the mode switch time? If you spin it looser really quick can you get to Turbo in like 0.3 seconds, or are there delays?
• Battery change: I agree with this post https://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?p=3744948 that it would be nice to avoid a blast in the face when changing battery. Logically, from no battery to battery, stay dark and either just delay 1 second, or wait until twist to off, before normal operation.
• Operation: Tighten for off is fantastic, LF2X does it and I love it. The revised electronic version with electronic lockout is not quite as ideal but with that low of a parasitic drain it should in practice be fine. (Just means that if a Torpedo is in your EOTWAWKI kit, have head untwisted from body so no battery contact).
• Price: love the reasonable price, but don't short yourself of enough profit to fund further R&D, cover contingencies like warranty/recall, and keep going creating fantastic lights!
• Lens: what about a slip-over lens? Since it could be a bit bigger and even longer, could that work to get somewhat more of a focused beam for when that is needed?
• Glass: is it an open reflector like E01, no glass lens in front? That might be good to reduce lumen loss, keep it simple and more rugged. As long as it can still be IPX8.
• Diffuser: If the good ol' chapstick-cap trick doesn't work on this light, please find/recommend/offer something that does. I am talking about a lantern-type diffuser, where you are using it as a tiny candle lantern, not a beam diffuser which seems kind of unnecessary on this light.
• Rugged: is it, overall? Is wall thickness good? I don't mean like an HDS, but at least not thin.
• Tint: I like that a neutral tint is most likely. Will that mean it won't quite be 500 emitter lumens though?
• Length: Both the web site front page and post 1 in part 1 still show AAA as 65mm or 66mm long, as opposed to around 82mm of e.g. https://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?p=3751439.
• Colors: Different body colors would be nice - like iTP - or do like 38DD and just work with an anodizing partner who can do all that work.
• Interactive: Thank you for being so responsive - so many designers/manufacturers are less than transparent - this thread is wonderful!
• Batteries: I'd probably get a couple of each size.
• Inductor: one recent pic showed a [relatively] huge inductor - I thought some early post mentioned there'd be an SMD inductor to save space - that didn't work out?
• Payment: will I need to have a PayPal account to purchase one?
• Web site: News page way out of date - maybe eliminate it and just point to CPF thread(s) in navigation sidebar?
• XM-L U2: Any chance of this higher-efficiency LED, maybe hand-selected if necessary for good tint?
• Manual:
  
  • Insure it is OK (legal) to use ANSI icons if you aren't going to get the (expensive) real FL1 certification.
  • Page 4: Saftey
  • Page 6: Eneloop should have the same voltage designation as NiMh, since it is.
  • Features: I don't know if Tactical (two places) is the right term for such a tiny light; "Frictionless" somewhat misleading, I hope it has some friction so it stays in place!
  • This operator's manual doesn't yet actually say exactly how the operator operates it! :-)

Hi cistallus,

thanks and wow! for such a well summarized post
what a great start to Part 2.


A few bits of feedback and questions. If any ideas can't be incorporated in the current version, please keep in mind for later revisions:

• Firefly: I was concerned about no firefly mode but it sounds like the actual level combined with the floody beam will be low enough.
• GITD: Since there's no trit option (even though it looks like it's easily done as DIY project), how about providing a GITD O-ring that can just be slipped over the body? Or if there is an O-ring under the lens, put it there?

There is an O-ring under the ring that holds the lens in place. I'll check if we can find a good quality GITD at the right size.

• Memory: I am glad there is no memory - operation seems simple and intuitive.
• Spacing: I have the LiteFlux LF2X (twisty version of LF2XT), its mode space stops are at 90 degrees, which is good, but your 120 degrees could be fine, just have to see.

Yes, agreed will need to test this when the updated driver is ready.

• Fast-On?: What is the mode switch time? If you spin it looser really quick can you get to Turbo in like 0.3 seconds, or are there delays?

According to the spec, there is no required delay but if we are talking about microseconds, it may depend on the response time thresholds of some of the circuitry.
I think 0.3 seconds should be well within the threshold though.

• Battery change: I agree with this post https://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?p=3744948 that it would be nice to avoid a blast in the face when changing battery. Logically, from no battery to battery, stay dark and either just delay 1 second, or wait until twist to off, before normal operation.

Yes, no flash when changing would be ideal, though it does let you know the battery is charged. Currently there is a 0.1 sec flash when I install a battery.
I don't find it annoying, in some ways comforting, knowing everything is good.

• Operation: Tighten for off is fantastic, LF2X does it and I love it. The revised electronic version with electronic lockout is not quite as ideal but with that low of a parasitic drain it should in practice be fine. (Just means that if a Torpedo is in your EOTWAWKI kit, have head untwisted from body so no battery contact).

For now, its just the selector ring and as you mentioned, you can loosen the tail but the drain is so low (nano-amps) that in practicality its a non-issue (the battery will likely discharge itself naturally faster than the drain).

• Price: love the reasonable price, but don't short yourself of enough profit to fund further R&D, cover contingencies like warranty/recall, and keep going creating fantastic lights!

Thanks. This is obviously a very fine balancing act. I want this to be affordable to as many people as possible, but it can't be at the cost of quality. I will keep you updated.

• Lens: what about a slip-over lens? Since it could be a bit bigger and even longer, could that work to get somewhat more of a focused beam for when that is needed?

This is something that has been mentioned and I have played around with as well. Could be a an option in the future.

• Glass: is it an open reflector like E01, no glass lens in front? That might be good to reduce lumen loss, keep it simple and more rugged. As long as it can still be IPX8.

There is a glass lens. This is a must for the XML as its sensitive to the elements (ie. water).

• Diffuser: If the good ol' chapstick-cap trick doesn't work on this light, please find/recommend/offer something that does. I am talking about a lantern-type diffuser, where you are using it as a tiny candle lantern, not a beam diffuser which seems kind of unnecessary on this light.

Im not sure this is so appropriate for the AAA as the main concept is small/portable but for those who like/use them, I can understand the need. Im sure there is something suitable that someone could recommend? For a AA version, with longer overall runtimes, this could be a more important accessory?

• Rugged: is it, overall? Is wall thickness good? I don't mean like an HDS, but at least not thin.

Its reasonably rugged. The threads are a little thin for my liking in the prototype but planning to thicken them to be more squared in the production version. If I had to choose to rate the walls thick vs thin, I would say they lean slightly to the thin side (and this is to keep the overall profile/diameter low) but that does not make it less rugged.
Once I have a few more proto's, I'll do a drive over test and let you know if its survives.
I will be giving it a beating before production to be sure.
My product concept is for precision instruments, of high quality (nothing flimsy) that you can bet your life on.

• Tint: I like that a neutral tint is most likely. Will that mean it won't quite be 500 emitter lumens though?

Planning to offer the neutral and cool, stock & price permitting. I'll need to measure the final output and the lumens will be determined by the XML bin of course so for neutral, this is about 5% less lumens (from memory).

• Length: Both the web site front page and post 1 in part 1 still show AAA as 65mm or 66mm long, as opposed to around 82mm of e.g. https://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?p=3751439.

Thanks, I will update that when I edit post 1 of part 2

• Colors: Different body colors would be nice - like iTP - or do like 38DD and just work with an anodizing partner who can do all that work.

Colors are doable, its just a matter of quantities to keep the costs reasonable

• Interactive: Thank you for being so responsive - so many designers/manufacturers are less than transparent - this thread is wonderful!

Thanks to everybody Its a two way street and Im just as grateful for all the feedback.

• Batteries: I'd probably get a couple of each size.

Thanks

• Inductor: one recent pic showed a [relatively] huge inductor - I thought some early post mentioned there'd be an SMD inductor to save space - that didn't work out?

There is one SMD inductor on board and hoping to replace that BIG guy (inductor) with an SMD as well in the production version if we can find the right place to mount it on the board with no interference.

• Payment: will I need to have a PayPal account to purchase one?

Im planning to use PayPal but with the option that allows you to use a credit card.

• Web site: News page way out of date - maybe eliminate it and just point to CPF thread(s) in navigation sidebar?

I actually have a new website Im working on, which will replace that news page which I threw up quickly to act as a placeholder and allow for subscription.
I will update it too (busy busy busy) and just point it here for now

• XM-L U2: Any chance of this higher-efficiency LED, maybe hand-selected if necessary for good tint?

Always a chance, just not sure how probable for the first production run.

• Manual:
  
  • Insure it is OK (legal) to use ANSI icons if you aren't going to get the (expensive) real FL1 certification.
  • Page 4: Saftey
  • Page 6: Eneloop should have the same voltage designation as NiMh, since it is.
  • Features: I don't know if Tactical (two places) is the right term for such a tiny light; "Frictionless" somewhat misleading, I hope it has some friction so it stays in place!
  • This operator's manual doesn't yet actually say exactly how the operator operates it! :-)

Thanks for pointing those issues out. Again the manual is a work-in-progress, for now serving to summarize the latest specs, but I will be adding to it and keep those points in mind.

tgwnn

[the_guy_with_no_name]

thanks for the update! I'm really looking forward to this light, but do take your time to iron out any bugs. Your right, 'recalls' are ever so annoying. Keep up the good work!

hazna,

thanks as always

tgwnn

[climberkid]

Guy, I missed the last update email sent because I entered my email in wrong, I'm assuming. (maybe it will spark a random interest in whomever it was sent to) I have since added the correct email, but would like the most recent update with beam shots and the surprise!

Also, unfortunately I leave in 1 week to be yelled at for the next 2 months and won't have access to any sort of computer. I would like to discuss with you an early payment to be SURE I get in on the first run. Even if I'm paying from the airport in Texas 2 seconds before my freedom dissapears.

Alex

[Piripi]

I'd like to get in on this, if it's not too late. Thank you!

[cw_mi]

Wow, this light looks awesome. I subscribed to the list and will be watching this closely. I scanned thru the threads and didn't see any ideas on pricing, is there an estimated price ?

[climberkid]

Wow, this light looks awesome. I subscribed to the list and will be watching this closely. I scanned thru the threads and didn't see any ideas on pricing, is there an estimated price ?

I belive he said around $65


Alex

[the_guy_with_no_name]

Guy, I missed the last update email sent because I entered my email in wrong, I'm assuming. (maybe it will spark a random interest in whomever it was sent to) I have since added the correct email, but would like the most recent update with beam shots and the surprise!

Also, unfortunately I leave in 1 week to be yelled at for the next 2 months and won't have access to any sort of computer. I would like to discuss with you an early payment to be SURE I get in on the first run. Even if I'm paying from the airport in Texas 2 seconds before my freedom dissapears.

Alex

Hi climberkid,

Thanks very much for your interest and enthusiasm.
I just mailed you the last update
There will only be a difference of a couple of weeks before the preliminary production run and full production run,
and I may be able to increase the number in the preliminary run. The full production run will be "as many as needed" so everyone will be able to purchase 1,5 or even 50 if you want to.


I sincerely appreciate your eagerness but at this stage, I'm unable to take advance payments for 3 reasons:
1) The specs need to be finalized (so you know what you are buying)
2) I need to be 100% certain, everything works according to spec and that I can deliver this product per the spec
3) There are many subscribers and posters that have been contributing since the beginning and I want to be fair to everyone in terms of timing and taking orders.

I will let you know as much in advance as possible before the order page goes live and timing/delivery might actually work out to be just when you return. Express delivery could be as little as 3 days (depending where you are) so all going well, you could get it within just a few days of coming back?

I hope you can understand and wish you well during your 2 months and hope the time passes very quickly for you.

I'd like to get in on this, if it's not too late. Thank you!

Hi Piripi,
Welcome
this is just the discussion thread and of course its not too late.

Wow, this light looks awesome. I subscribed to the list and will be watching this closely. I scanned thru the threads and didn't see any ideas on pricing, is there an estimated price ?

Hi cw_mi,
Thanks for subscribing.
The Target price is $65 though its still not confirmed (pending final production costs).
I do plan to make the Torpedo available for sale outside of cpf and the retail price will likely be a little higher than that, though hoping to keep it as close to the target as possible for cpf

I belive he said around $65
Alex

Thanks climberkid

tgwnn

[cw_mi]

Thanks for the reply and damn, that is a lot of light for a target price of $65. Very cool and I'm definitely in when they become available.

[the_guy_with_no_name]

Thanks for the reply and damn, that is a lot of light for a target price of $65. Very cool and I'm definitely in when they become available.

Thanks cw_mi,

I hope to get close to that target but my current gut-feeling is that it will be an introductory price,
as a big thank you to everyone here, and then I might need to set it more around the $75~$80 for the longer term.


@everyone

I have updated POST #1 with some photos!
Please scroll down to the bottom of the post to see tailstanding and closeup of keyring clip attachments.

tgwnn

[Bigmac_79]

Just read the email update, very impressive.

[ruriimasu]

anyone staying in Singapore has any idea whether the customs will have any issue with the torpedo box?

guy, that box is designed very nicely. hope it can make it into Singapore. but if it isn't allowed, i still want at least 1 torpedo light without the box

JJ

[smarkum]

that tailstand with keyring attachment is IMPRESSIVE! Now I'm even MORE excited! Wow!


Excellent

[ffemt6263]

Im clicking on the link in the op for the mailing list and its not working?!? I need to know more! Help please!

[the_guy_with_no_name]

Just read the email update, very impressive.

As always, thanks Mac

anyone staying in Singapore has any idea whether the customs will have any issue with the torpedo box?
guy, that box is designed very nicely. hope it can make it into Singapore. but if it isn't allowed, i still want at least 1 torpedo light without the box
JJ

Thanks ruriimasu. No idea on the customs but only one way to find out

that tailstand with keyring attachment is IMPRESSIVE! Now I'm even MORE excited! Wow!
Excellent

Thanks smarkum and glad you like it.
With a split ring (like the red one) the right size is important but Im happy the design worked as planned.

Im clicking on the link in the op for the mailing list and its not working?!? I need to know more! Help please!

Hi ffemt,
I just double checked the link and it looks ok to me.
Are you seeing anything at all?

tgwnn

[ffemt6263]

Yes. It takes me to the link then says server cannot be found.

[the_guy_with_no_name]

Yes. It takes me to the link then says server cannot be found.

Hi ffemt,

Please try this: https://sites.google.com/site/mbitorpedo/subscribe/
and let me know if it still shows 404.
It looks fine to me.
Is anybody else able to confirm its working?

tgwnn

[climberkid]

Working for me on my mobile. Also, I checked my inbox and spam box and didn't seem to have the email. If anyone can send it to me that would be awesome!
"alxjmrk" at yahoo


Alex

[rlcrisp]

Hi ffemt,

Please try this: https://sites.google.com/site/mbitorpedo/subscribe/
and let me know if it still shows 404.
It looks fine to me.
Is anybody else able to confirm its working?

tgwnn

Works fine for me.

[bruintennis]

Very cool project. It'll be interesting to see the final product, specs, and price. Cheers!

[nein166]

The subscribe worked fine filled it out and got a confirmation page

[oronocova]

Wow, missed this thread. Great looking light. I'll probably be in for one!

[fatbrad]

sorry to add to your to do list, but I only subscribed on Jan 1 and missed the email update.

Any chance I could get a copy of that email? Thanks.

[ffemt6263]

Ugh 😒 still not working for me. No idea why. Any way i can pm my email and have you put it on or something?

[Judgedog]

I thought that I signed up for the email updates...I will try again. This looks like a very nice project...and perhaps a very nice future in the "light" business!!! Hoping that I can get in on this!!!

[the_guy_with_no_name]

Working for me on my mobile. Also, I checked my inbox and spam box and didn't seem to have the email. If anyone can send it to me that would be awesome!
"alxjmrk" at yahoo

Alex

Thanks for testing
Just resent it to you. Please feel free to pm/mail me if it doesn't seem to arrive (mbimbi777 "at" gmail.com)

Works fine for me.

Thanks for testing

Very cool project. It'll be interesting to see the final product, specs, and price. Cheers!

Thank you

The subscribe worked fine filled it out and got a confirmation page

Thanks for testing nein

Wow, missed this thread. Great looking light. I'll probably be in for one!

Thank you

sorry to add to your to do list, but I only subscribed on Jan 1 and missed the email update.
Any chance I could get a copy of that email? Thanks.

No problem at all
I just sent it to you. Please let me know if it arrives.

Ugh  still not working for me. No idea why. Any way i can pm my email and have you put it on or something?

Hi ffemt,
sure, please mail or pm me and I'll be more than happy to add you

I thought that I signed up for the email updates...I will try again. This looks like a very nice project...and perhaps a very nice future in the "light" business!!! Hoping that I can get in on this!!!

Hi Judgedog,
Confirmed you are on the list now and sent you the mail


thanks,
tgwnn

[Burgess]

Also, unfortunately I leave in 1 week to be yelled at for the next 2 months . . . .

Even if I'm paying from the airport in Texas 2 seconds before my freedom dissapears.

Oh, yer' getting Married ? ? ?

[qtaco]

Loving how this light is shaping up, great work mate! Could you send me the latest update? I subscribed just now.