powerbank DIY prototype
This design was created because I needed a portable 12Vdc supply to power my underwater LED fishing lights. As this is a seasonal pastime, to make better use of the project I added LED lighting and 5V USB out, ideal for camping.
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3 sides of the case
I have quite a collection of unused VHS cases, a bit large for a project like this but the solar panels I had, 165 x 135 mm fitted perfectly (totally unplanned).
diagram of connections
I'll briefly explain this prototype:
- the USB charger module is the heart of this project. With this I can recharge the batteries via the solar panel or a USB mini cable.
- the voltmeter is not needed I just put it in to read the charging voltage (cheap enough it can stay there)
- the boost module gives me the 12Vdc I needed regardless of the input voltage controlled by switch 1, which also controls to 5V USB Out.
- switch 2 determines whether I want the 12V DC Out on OR switch on the LED lights. Using this configuration saves me the cost of another switch, not convinced this was a good idea.
Time to build it ...
layout
Pretty rough I know, plonk the bits inside the case using a glue gun then solder in the wires. The holes were made by pushing a heated soldering iron tip through the soft plastic case.
Testing Prototype
Charging
- via solar: yes
- via USB: yes
Discharging
- 12V DC at RCA plugs: yes (fishing lights worked fine)
- 5V USB Out: yes (charged my mobile phone)
- 9 LED lights on case: yes
I removed the Green SMD LED from the USB Charger Module, put a 3mm Green LED on the case then connected back to the module. This gives an external indication that the batteries are fully charged.
I made a 2nd Powerbank ...
a few changes made on this one
This one definitely looks a lot better, using strip LEDs and push switches gave the project cleaner lines. I didn't use the 12V DC Out on this one, no point in having 2 identical Powerbanks.
unexpected bonus
I can remove 2 batteries and place them in my headlamp when required. Using the headlamp instead of walking around with this VHS case in hand is so much better. The 2 remaining batteries can still be used as intended, the Powerbanks capacity is reduced by 50%. The next Powerbank I make will have 6 batteries, once I obtain them.
Thoroughly enjoyed making these ....
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Originally posted on Staying Active Body and Mind. Steem blog powered by ENGRAVE.