Abstract: A flashlight which can be operated directly either by a rechargeable batt or by a hand-cranked alternator. The alternator can also simultaneously operate the light and recharge the battery, or only recharge the battery. The alternator is integrally attached to a harmonic drive system which allows the alternator rotor to be driven at high speeds.

Abstract: A time-delay RC circuit, having a preselected time constant, is connected ross a reserve battery undergoing activation. The function of the circuit is to hold off the application of the load of a power utilization device until the battery is sufficiently activated. Since the drain rate of the time-delay circuit is very small, it does not retard activation via polarization as would be the case if the full load were draining the battery during activation. A first switching transistor is connected across the charging capacitor of the RC circuit and turns on when the time constant is reached. When the first switching transistor is turned on, it turns on a second switching transistor connected between the battery and the utilization device.