So, I'm trying to use a 3D printer and my knowledge of computer programming and some engineering circuits classes to build a bicycle light - in this case, a really bright taillight that I can flash during the day to increase my noticability while multi-thousand pound hammers whiz by me at the whims of biologically flawed drivers on my way to work.
I understand that, for reasons of reliability, is is best to use a
current source. Now, granted, I had to analyze circuits with these things in them, so I think I understand the implications, but actually choosing a real one has been difficult (obviously, I want something fairly insensitive to temperature.) I go to digikey (try
http://www.digikey.com/product-search/en/integrated-circuits-ics/pmic-led-drivers/2556628) and I see this:
Flash, switch, automotive, lighting... what?
Which one of these things should I be interested in? If someone would be so kind as to explain some of the differences or recommend something appropriate, I'd most appreciate it!
For sheer laziness/avoiding true circuit desing, I'll be using some incarnation of the arduino for this, probably.
(For the record thse, are some fairly powerful Cree LEDs (min flux @ 350 mA ~= 70 lumens))