Panasonic "Any BF-BM10 Battery Light" (via Panasonic)
On the wake of an emergency, it becomes obvious that there are few things more useful than a flashlight. Before an emergency, few of us would know exactly what batteries our available lamps use. To avoid the mistakes of our forgetful minds prior to emergency situations, Panasonic designed an emergency flashlight that will take AAA, AA, C and D batteries to light up.
The idea came after the 2011 earthquake that rocked Japan. Demand for flashlights was enormous, but the problem of acquiring batteries was a persistent added task. So instead, Panasonic designed a lamp with compartments for one of each of the batteries mentioned (note 9V are not taken, nor watch batteries). Finding one of these batteries lying around is a manageable task in time of need.
Although all batteries are not created equal, just one AAA will serve you in generating light. Batteries with higher voltages will deliver more lumens of course. Panasonic claims that if you have one of all four types of batteries, the efficient lamp will last you up to 86 hours.
The lamp uses LEDs positioned in an efficient geometry to maximize the light produced by one AAA. To reduce cost and keep the design straightforward and efficient, the light was designed so the user chooses which battery to use by rotating an end cap that switches which battery completes the circuit.
The light will be available for consumers in Japan January 25th, twenty thirteen for only 2,000 yen or about $24.
There are more ideas flying around to make necessary tools more adaptable and useful in emergencies. Hopefully everyone is considering integrating battery adaptability as a feature in communication devices, and all the other stuff I can’t think of at the moment — but would need in an emergency.
Cabe