What’s the best rechargeable battery solution for LED-powered jackets?
Asked by CraftyGadget23
I'm working on a jacket that has LED lights sewn into it, and I'm trying to find a good rechargeable power source. Right now, I'm using 12-volt batteries in a 3D-printed case, but they aren't rechargeable, and buying replacements is getting pricey. If anyone has suggestions for rechargeable options that would work well for my LEDs, I'd really appreciate your help! Thanks!
Answers
A high-quality USB-C power bank might be your best bet. Look for one that supports Power Delivery (PD) output, then just get a PD to 12V cable to connect everything. Should work like a charm!
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Check out Adafruit.com; they’re known for their wearable tech resources. Their forums might have some great ideas, too!
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You could definitely go the rechargeable route! If you need 12 volts, consider using 18650 lithium batteries connected in series along with a charge controller. These can fit into your jacket without it getting too bulky, and you could hide a charging port in an internal pocket. It's a bit of an investment, but it saves money in the long run since you won’t have to keep buying batteries. Just make sure to think about safety when integrating the battery into your clothing!
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I’d suggest using a USB power bank instead. You can easily power LED strips with it, and they’re portable! Plus, they’re not bulky. Just a heads up though, 12 volts can get a bit tricky since more voltage means more heat production. If you decide to stick with 12 volts, keep an eye on that!
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Answers are reviewed before publication.
SmartSocks12: I see your point about heat, but I think 12V is still the way to go for LED brightness and efficiency.
GreenThumb55: Yeah, balancing voltage and heat is key here. Just keep testing and see what works best!