2021 · log.fisher.sh

A portable, rechargeable UV-charging box for glow discs - with built-in red night-vision lights and a shoulder strap. Originally posted to /r/discgolf.

The box in all its glory!

The box in all its glory! The UV lights are normally off when the lid is open (to stop you from blinding yourself). The switch is taped down for this photo.

UV LED strips between each disc

There are UV LED strips between each disc. I spray painted the inside silver to help reflect the UV light on all sides of the disc.

Rechargeable battery + charge-level mirror

It’s powered by a removable, 12v, 3000mAh, rechargeable battery. I added a 45-degree mirror so you can easily see the current charge level.

Dimmable red LEDs on both sides

The red LEDs are dimmable and are on both sides. No more pulling out my phone flashlight to make sure I don’t trip, and I get to keep those night eyes :)

Controls panel

The left slider controls the UV brightness (if you’re trying to conserve battery). The middle dial controls the red LEDs. The lid-switch is on the left, held down by a paintbrush.

Shoulder strap from an old camera bag

I salvaged a shoulder strap from an old camera bag - it sits right on my hip, which is perfect. I was really happy with how comfortable it is to carry. (I’m 6’5” for reference.)

Strap doesn't block the lid

I made sure that the straps wouldn’t stop you from opening the box while wearing it.

The original prototype

This was the original prototype I made months ago. The final product was only slightly larger.

Prototype shoulder strap

Shoulder strap included! :D

Prototype vs final, side by side

Here are both compared to each other.

Prototype vs final, both open

And both open.

Plexiglass sheets with UV LED strips

Between each disc are two plexiglass sheets with UV LED strips stuck to them.

Lights staggered so they don't block each other

The lights were placed so that they charged the disc on the opposite side, and the strips didn’t block each other.

Wire cutting and soldering

Making these took the longest time, especially the wire-cutting and soldering…

First test charge

This was my first test-charge.

Yup. That worked.

Glow not perfectly even but super bright

It’s not a perfectly even charge - but they’re super bright. I hope that they get jostled while being carried, resulting in an even charge.

First big 3D-printing project

I bought a 3D printer recently, and this was its first big project. Almost all the internals are 3D printed (plexiglass guides, disc holders, dimmer switch mounts, battery cage, etc.).

Demo

Rechargeable Glow-Disc Box