Bicycle Electronics, Power LEDs, Dynamos and Batteries, Driver Circuits

Disclaimer:
Constructing a bicycle lighting system or modifying an existing one may result in a system that does not comply with all applicable laws and regulations. None of the bicycle lighting systems described below has been explicitly approved for use on roads by any authority, nor have any of their components. Constructing, repairing, or operating the circuitry described below may involve risk of electric shock. If you attempt to construct, repair, or operate any of the systems or components described below, you do so at your own risk.

Bicycle Light Projects

Components

The Dynamo / Alternator / Generator - Dynamo basics. Different types of dynamos and their characteristics.
The Battery - Battery application basics

Electronic Circuits

Dynamo LED light electronics - A nice selection of electronic circuits to power LEDs from a bicycle dynamo
Battery LED light electronics - A basic step-up circuit to power an LED from a battery

Mechanical Construction

Universal single-LED headlight Inexpensive Built from commonly available material	Universal triple-LED headlight Powerful with good heat dissipation Built from commonly available material	Standard headlight modified into LED headlight Unobstrusive Existing headlight can be recycled Built from commonly available material
Universal LED taillight mechanical construction Inexpensive Very robust, sealed against water Built from commonly available material	1.5 W LED headlight / headlamp, battery-operated Universal small light for a variety of tasks Lightweight Li-Ion battery, performs well at low temperature	Halogen headlight from standard parts, battery-operated Lots of light for your money All standard parts, easily completed in half a day

Commercial Bicycle Light Products Analyzed

There are times when it is more appropriate to buy a commercial product:

When you need it right now

When high quality is sold at the right price

When the insurance pays it

Tail Lights

Commercial Battery Tail Lights

Widely available in many places, often inexpensive

Independent from the rest of the light system