retrofitted
brief
An old lamp from the 70s which broke so I retrofitted it with modern technology including a USB-C connector, a rechargeable battery and a stepless dimmer, making the lamp portable and more energy efficient. This project embodies my passion for repairs and sustainability.
specifications
Year
2025
For
Personal Project
Type
Upcycling
Model
Solis Typ 82 / 220V 25W
Upgrades
idea
My nightstand lamp broke, so I wanted to repair it. Upon opening it, I saw the transformer and thought this space could be used to fit a battery instead, so the project went from repair to upcycle.
credits
Solo Project
Till Solenthaler
AI Declaration
- ChatGPT for circuit design
- Google Nano Banana for stylizing images of components for schematic
process
01. IDEA & CONCEPTAfter identifying the transformer as the issue, I started to think about ways to improve the lamp beyond just repairing it.
02. RESEARCH & DESIGNI drafted a schematic and shopping list with ChatGPT. I visualized the schematic using the Fritzing app and ordered parts from AliExpress.
03. SALVAGE & UPGRADERemoved the old transformer and power cable. Built separate blocks: base with charging board and USB-C, middle with dimmer and batteries, top with new LED bulb. Modified some casing to fit.
04. FINALIZE, TESTING AND ASSEMBLETested all voltages, battery charging and lamp function while disassembled. Then assembled everything back together.
05. 3D CAPTURECaptured as 3D model using Polycam app with backdrop setup for optimal lighting.
06. ENHANCEI then used Blender to crop, retouch, fix corners, texture spots and add a bottom plate.
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