Even though AA and AAA batteries are becoming less common in professional environments, a new Kickstarter project shows that there is still room for innovation in terms of charging and storage workflows: The Olight Ostation 2 series (www.kickstarter.com/projects/olight/olight-ostation-2-next-gen-of-personal-smart-battery-hub) presents itself on Kickstarter as an intelligent solution for charging and managing AA and AAA batteries. The system combines modern battery management with practical additional functions for particularly convenient handling.
Users can insert their batteries without having to pay attention to the polarity. The device identifies the type and selects the optimal charging mode. Common NiMH batteries (AA/AAA) and Olight&s 1.5V Li-ion batteries are supported. In addition to charging, the Ostation 2 also performs automatic battery tests. An integrated system checks the internal resistance, age and performance of the batteries. Non-rechargeable or defective batteries - such as alkaline batteries - are detected and sorted out.
With Olight&s own 1.5V Li-ion batteries, a built-in chip enables detailed real-time monitoring. The charging status, battery condition and charging cycles can be called up via the Olight app or - in the Pro version - via the integrated touch display. The Pro version also offers two magnetic MCC charging ports for Olight flashlights and a faster 12V charging function.
Both models support the same core functions: charging, testing and sorting AA and AAA batteries. At the same time, the device serves as a storage station for charged batteries.
The charging times vary depending on the battery type. While Olight Li-ion batteries are fully charged in less than two hours, standard NiMH batteries take about two to three hours. The system automatically stops the charging process as soon as the maximum capacity is reached and then ejects the batteries into the drawers. If there are still batteries in the "queue", they are pushed forward sequentially without the user having to be on site. Ideally, you should always find the drawers with fully charged batteries.
Olight is not alone with this idea: Linogy (www.kickstarter.com/projects/linogy/linogy-the-reinvention-of-aa-aaa-batteries-and-chargers) is pursuing a similar concept. Their charger works mechanically a bit simpler, but ultimately does the same thing. The interaction with their 1.5V Li-Ion batteries, which eliminate many of the disadvantages of classic NiMH batteries, is also really worth mentioning. They have more power (3600 mA), a typical battery voltage (1.5 V) and also keep their charge much longer when stored.
These products are still Kickstarter projects, but they are sure to catch on quickly if they work as promised.
;)