Inflatable Pole Softbox for Stable Large Studio Light Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible softboxes are unstable when used with larger photographic studiolights, making them unsuitable for larger applications, and traditional softboxes are cumbersome for transportation due to their rigid structure.
Innovation Solution
A softbox with an inflatable pole system that transitions between a compressed and expanded configuration, using decompressible and inflatable poles made of flexible materials, allowing for stable expansion and easy portability, and a frame constructed from lightweight, non-reflective and reflective fabrics for even light diffusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional rigid softbox structures are used, then structural stability is improved, but portability and ease of transportation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The softbox employs dynamically changeable support poles that can transition between extended and retracted states. The telescopic poles with locking mechanisms allow the softbox to be stable when needed (extended) and compact for transport (retracted), resolving the contradiction between structural stability and portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescopic poles are designed with nested segments that can be stored within each other when retracted. This nesting mechanism enables the poles to achieve a compact size for easy transportation while maintaining full extended length for structural stability during use.
2Ease of operation
If collapsible softbox structures are used, then portability is improved, but stability for larger studiolights deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The telescopic poles with adjustable locking mechanisms provide dynamic stability adjustment. When set to maximum extension with locking engaged, the poles provide sufficient structural stability for larger studiolights while maintaining the collapsible capability for portability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The pole length parameter can be changed between extended and retracted states. This parameter change allows the softbox to achieve both compact dimensions for portability and sufficient structural dimensions for stability with larger lights, depending on the operational requirements.
3Ease of operation
If telescopic poles are used, then portability is improved, but structural integrity for larger lights deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The telescopic poles incorporate locking mechanisms that provide dynamic structural reinforcement. When locked in the extended position, the poles achieve sufficient structural integrity to support larger studiolights, while the ability to retract maintains portability benefits.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The softbox provides a stable and portable solution for larger studiolights by maintaining structural integrity in the expanded state while allowing for compact storage and easy transportation in the compressed state, accommodating various light sources and dimensions.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one pole is inflatable... Inflation of poles is a simple way of decompressing the poles... The poles might e.g. be inflated with water or a saline solution
Implementation Method 2
the pole(s) comprise an integrated compressible and decompressible filling structure... Such a compressible filling might be compressed at least one time, preferably multiple times... By removing pressure on the pole(s), the filling will decompress resulting in an expansion of the pole(s)
Implementation Method 3
The frame comprises an outer side being non-reflective and an inner side being reflective. The inner side reflects the light of the flash or constant light and therewith providing a soft indirect lightening
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
A softbox (1) for a photographic light (6) having a compressed and an expanded configuration. The softbox (1) comprises a frame (2) and at least one, preferably multiple, poles (3). The poles are connectable or connected to the frame (2). The poles (3) are decompressible to expand the softbox (1) from the compressed to the expanded configuration.