Blinker Circuit... On the hunt...

[Greatscott]

I am looking for a LED blinker circuit... sort of.

I am looking for device that passes LED power in a steady state normally, but when a trigger signal is sent, it will make the LEDs blink.

The drawing below shows what I am after:
• The battery powers the BEC
• The BEC passes voltage to the relay, and the blinker circuit
• When the relay is off, the LEDs down stream of the blinker circuit do not blink.
• When the relay is energized, it passes voltage to the blinker circuit's trigger, and the LEDs blink.
• When the relay is turned off, the LEDs go back to steady state.
-- The LEDs I am using have a voltage range of 4-12VDC with their own resistors, so a LED driver isn't required. There will likely be around ten 5mm LEDs.
-- Both high and return are represented by the same line
-- The relay is powering other things, and is not part of the blinker circuit assembly (or could be, depending of it is off-the-shelf or custom built. The relay would have two more pole in addition to the two for the trigger line).
-- Likewise, the BEC is its own component, and not integrated into the blinker.

Does a this unicorn exist?

LED Blinker Controller by Scott O, on Flickr


What is this for?
I am working on a RC conversion of a Burder semi trailer. On this trailer I have fold-up ramps and a winch, along with retractable landing gear. I want to be able to switch between the winch and ramp linear actuator with a remote (already in hand). With the relay off, the power will go to the ramps, and the trailer lights will be solid. When the relay is turned on, the winch will be selected, and the lights will blink. The landing gear have their own controls on the remote.

 

[Ots]

Called a "Flasher Circuit" and widely available in a ton of configurations.

The task is to identify one (meaning "dig deep") that will work with your electrical supply and physical size.

Mouser, Digi-Key, etc. have them available. Good luck with the hunt.

 

[HumboldtEF]

I've used the MK4 Lane Boys RC LED controller on an 8x8 that had tons of lights. I know you said you dont need a light controller but this light controller is highly customizable, it can also incorporate servos. It might be overkill but its the only thing I'm familiar with. There are plans available on Github so you can make your own or you can contact him directly to purchase one (thats what I did).

His video goes over the features and options to customize it (his email is in the video description): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwB6_BeJ5B4

If you also want to see me struggle to setup this controller I also put up a video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQGKTeGcluA

EDIT: one key feature I really like about this controller is it can be connected to many lights but connecting it to them only requires 1 connection (servo wire) instead of having to plug in all of the lights. That just means you can have a complex setup but still have a simple way to connect it when putting the body on.

 

[heyok]

Scott, if you want me to get something out to you, just let me know.

 

[heyok]

All done!


If anyone else wants something custom, just let me know
Al

 

[Greatscott]

All done!


If anyone else wants something custom, just let me know
Al

You da man!!!!

What is the flash rate?

 

[heyok]

Flash rate: Half a second on, half a second off.

 

[Ots]

Sure beats having to dig deep!

 

[Greatscott]

Sure beats having to dig deep!

I am good at researching parts, that is a big part of my job. But, when you don't have to, its a good thing. Plus, Al makes very good electronic parts that work.

 

[heyok]

I am good at researching parts, that is a big part of my job. But, when you don't have to, its a good thing. Plus, Al makes very good electronic parts that work.

Aw shucks.
Now I'm blushing.

Hey Scott, did you check your email?

Cheers,
Al